Pacific Waves

A daily current affairs programme that delves deeper into the major stories of the week, through a Pacific lens, and shines a light on issues affecting Pacific people wherever they are in the world.

Presented by Susana Suisuiki

On air:

Weeknights at 9.45pm on RNZ National and weeknights 6.00am on RNZ Pacific

An illustrated motif representing people from the Pacific gathered around a sun sits behind a photographic portrait of Susana Suisuiki.

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Pacific Waves 04 November 2025

In Pacific Waves today: PNG landslide kills 21 and leaves many homeless; Pacific region aims for a renewable energy future; NZ confirm 17 measles cases; Tongan rugby league fans dominate Auckland's Eden Park.
New episode
The cultural challenge during New Zealand Kiwis v Tonga XIII, round 3 of the Pacific Championships at Eden Park, Auckland.

Pacific Waves 01 November 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Samoa budget sees big increases; Health and economy under spotlight ahead of Tonga's election; Tokelau language week celebrated in NZ; New Pacific football league launched in NZ.
The FAST party has won a large majority in Samoa's parliament. (AFP: William West)

Pacific Waves 31 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: US govt shutdown reaches the Pacific; Seabed research ongoing amidst mining decision; Tonga needed to secure a win following brutal loss.
The U.S. House of Representatives has not yet passed appropriations bills to fund the government for the 2024 fiscal year, beginning October 1. Enough Republican Representatives oppose the resolution that would fund the government temporarily to cause a shutdown. (Photo by Allison Bailey/NurPhoto) (Photo by Allison Bailey / NurPhoto / NurPhoto via AFP)

Pacific Waves 30 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Academic warns of further political turmoil in Fiji; Pacific artists embrace their cultural roots; Pacific socials wrap with Coco Lance.
Kava to drink at a traditional ceremony in Sanma Province, Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu.

Pacific Waves 29 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Experts warn of the Pacific becoming "narco-states"; Report shows NZ reducing its aid in the Pacific; Pacific news wrap with Christina Persico.
The first narco sub discovered in Solomon Islands last year has now been converted into a personal boat. (In-depth Solomons)

Pacific Waves 28 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Health experts warn HIV could spread across the region; Alarming gaps in measles vaccination among Pacific; Toa Samoa stomps on Tonga in brutal league match.
Toa Samoa have booked their spot in the Pacific Championships final, overcoming Tonga for a 34-6 victory at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium.

Pacific Waves 25 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Solomon Islands government need to consult public on military set up - former Attorney General Sir Frank Kabui; PNG residents in Australia soon to be eligible for army; Pacific news wrap with Teuila Fuatai.
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Pacific Waves 24 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Violent disciplinary measures in Fiji schools not the answer - advocates; Setting health priorities in the Pacific region; Niue youth are 'eager' to learn their language - advocate.
Leitualaalemalietoa Lynn Lolokini Pavihi has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Pacific Waves 23 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Fiji's former PM sentenced over corruption charge; West Papua group claims 15 civilians killed in drone bombing; Pacific social media wrap with Coco Lance.
Frank Bainimarama is accused by critics of weaponising Fijian institutions against his opponents.

Pacific Waves 22 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Pacific news wrap with Christina Persico; Cook Islands aviator returns home for defence exercise; Kiribati minister wants special seats for women in parliament.
The RNZAF’s Sergeant Matatunoa Mata got an enthusiastic welcome when he landed at his home island of Ma’uke in the Cook Islands for Exercise Tropic Twilight

Pacific Waves 21 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Solomon Islands look into setting up a defence force; French Senate endorses postponing New Cal elections; Samoa no match for the Kiwis in Pac Champs opening round.
Casey McLean of the Kiwis scores his second try during New Zealand Kiwis v Toa Samoa, round 1 of the Pacific Championships at Go Media Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand on Sunday 19 October 2025. Photo: Fiona Goodall / Photosport

Pacific Waves 18 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Ex Samoa PM files lawsuit against successor; Pacific leaders criticise reduced methane goals; Fiji teachers advocate for corporate punishment.
The compounds were first tested in laboratory experiments in rumen fluid.

Pacific Waves 17 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: NZ foreign minister speaks on Manawanui compensation; Pacific vocalists deliver powerful performances on hit TV show; Pacific sports wrap with Iliesa Tora.
Papua New Guinea had set a total of 117 runs and Samoa reached the target with nine balls remaining and six wickets in hand.

Pacific Waves 15 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: Candidates confirmed for Tonga's election; Pacific news wrap with Christina Persico; Climate experts address adaptation solutions.
A Tonga Electoral Commission banner with the message: "Vote so you can be counted".

Pacific Waves 14 October 2025

In Pacific Waves today: People are sticking to the status quo - Nauru elections; Five to nine tropical cyclones predicted for the Pacific; New training initiative a game changer for Pacific workers.
Barbara Dreaver, TVNZ reporter.

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