Science
Critter of the week
If you have trypophobia (fear of closely packed holes like honeycomb), then it is best not to look at photos of this lichen. Jesse talks to RNZ 's Ellen Rykers about lace lichen or coral lichen. Audio
Heavy metal in most chocolates may not pose health risk, researchers say
But consumption of more than one serving per day or in combination with other sources of heavy metals may cumulatively add up to exposure that exceeds recommendations, the researchers say.
Scientists worried about jobs going at GNS
Scientists are worried that New Zealand will lose key knowledge if jobs go at GNS science. Association of Scientists Dr Lucy Stewart spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss. Audio
Bonus: Kākāpō update with Dr Andrew Digby
Claire Concannon and Dr Andrew Digby talk about all things kākāpō: that habitat trial and where the birds are now, the next breeding season, and Andrew’s hopes for the future of this iconic manu. Audio
Our Changing World's Claire Concannon on GNS Science cuts
Claire Concannon from RNZ podcast Our Changing World joins Nights to chat about some interesting stories in the science and science-adjacent worlds. Audio
A year of kākāpō at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari
It's been one year since kākāpō returned to mainland Aotearoa at the fenced Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.
Claire Concannon finds out what mischief they've been up to, and what's next for the… Audio
The Pre-Panel for 31th July 2024
Today on the Pre-Panel, Wallace Chapman previews tonight's show and producer Tom Riste-Smith joins to discuss the preliminary results from the most comprehensive UBI trial to date... Audio
The Pre-Panel for 31th July 2024
Today on the Pre-Panel, Wallace Chapman previews tonight's show and producer Tom Riste-Smith joins to discuss the preliminary results from the most comprehensive UBI trial to date... Audio
'Sad day for science': Dozens of jobs set to go at GNS Science
The organisation's change proposal, leaked to RNZ, says 66 roles would likely go
Look up: Meteor showers on display
Two Meteor showers are expected to be visible this week. Dr Nicholas Rattenbury is an Astrophysicist, and a Senior Lecturer at The University of Auckland Dept of Physics. Nick gives Jesse the inside… Audio
Data shows more CO2 in atmosphere than ever recorded
New data show there is more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than ever previously recorded. Data journalist Kate Newton reports. Audio
Increasing ocean temperatures could impact local fish species
Part of the ocean off NZ has been heating up since 2006. In the past it went back to normal. This time, it hasn't stopped. Audio
Shower Thoughts: Can bad smells make us sick?
Is there something in the air - or is it all in our heads? Chief scientist at Plant & Food Research Richard Newcomb sticks his nose into it on Nights. Audio
Homemade sunscreen on TikTok? Give me all the chemicals
Making an effective sunscreen isn't as easy as mixing a few ingredients in your kitchen.
NIWA observes increase in ocean temperatures
NIWA have observed an increase in ocean temperatures east of New Zealand which could impact key fisheries. NIWA's Matt Dunn spoke to Tuwhenuaroa Natanahira. Audio
Three new wētā species discovered, including one named after Boudica
Three new species of wētā have been discovered in New Zealand's southern islands, all belonging to two new genera new to science. Audio
Upcoming meteor showers visible in NZ
Stargazers could be in for treat this week as the Earth passes through two meteor showers known as Alpha Capricornids and Southern Delta Aquariids. University of Canterbury planetary astronomer Dr… Audio
Three new species of wētā discovered
Three new species of wētā have been discovered in the southern regions of Aotearoa. Professor in Evolutionary Ecology Steven Trewick spoke to Corin Dann. Audio
The science of surfing waves
Teahupo'o off the south coast of Tahiti Iti is this year's Olympic surfing venue and is one of the biggest tests of skill and courage in the surf community. What makes it one-of-a-kind? Audio
Experimental vineyard tries to find the perfect drop
The living lab will give scientists more insight into what happens underneath the ground.