A decline in drink driving convictions.

Ministry of Justice figures show convictions for teenagers in the past nine years are down 52% and 9.6% overall.

But the numbers rose for people in their thirties and over 55's.

Alcohol Beverages Council spokesperson Virginia Nicholls told Andrew Dickens it shows youth drinking is changing for the better.

She says a change in culture is coming through as well as the impact of targeted education and support programmes.

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The ACT Party's promising to ensure freedom of speech for professional regulators if re-elected.

The proposal would ban regulators from disciplining workers for lawful expression outside of professional practice.

It would require them to remain neutral on political issues and restrict mandatory training to matters directly related to professional competence and safety.

Free Speech Union council member Ani O'Brien told Andrew Dickens these people are currently being judged on more than just their competence.

She says workers are being policed on what they post on social media and their political beliefs.

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On the Early Edition with Andrew Dickens Full Show Podcast Wednesday 17th of June 2026, Infrastructure NZ CEO Nick Leggett gives his thoughts on the Government given the green light to a 30-year infrastructure plan.

Less people are drinking and driving and it's young people leading the charge, Virginia Nicholls NZ Alcohol and Beverage Council Executive Director tells Andrew why.

The Act Party is promising to restore freedom of speech to professional regulators if re-elected, Free Speech Union Council Member Ani O'Brien shares her thoughts.

Plus, UK/Europe Correspondent Gavin Grey has the latest on

Get the Early Edition Full Show Podcast every weekday on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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