The Front Page

School holidays kick off tomorrow, and hundreds of families are set to take to the roads and skies to head off on vacation. For those of us travelling internationally though, the main hope is that the ongoing renovations at Auckland Airport won’t lead to the usual ‘travel chaos’ many of us have come to expect. So how are those developments going, and is the travel industry as a whole on the road to recovery after the Covid-19 pandemic? Today on The Front Page, business travel editor Grant Bradley is with us to discuss the latest in travel. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newshub is officially closing down. Despite hopes of a last-minute lifeline, Warner Bros Discovery has confirmed all news operations will shut up shop from July 5th. It comes as TVNZ also confirms its Midday and Tonight bulletins will end in mid-May, while Fair Go will shift to digital only. So, with so many jobs going over the next three months, what does the future hold for news in New Zealand – particularly as trust falls to a new low? Today on The Front Page, Media Insider Shayne Currie joins to give us the latest on an industry fighting for survival. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government ministries are on a mission to cut spending by 6.5 to 7.5 per cent before the coalition Government’s first Budget next month. Finance Minister Nicola Willis has asked all departments to look for savings to “restore discipline” to taxpayer spending. For some agencies, cutting costs means cutting jobs – and that number is already at about a thousand roles, give or take. Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB reporter Azaria Howell discusses the challenges facing our public sector as departments race to cut spending. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The coalition Government’s signalled “everything’s on the table” when it comes to a major shake-up of New Zealand’s gun laws. The world praised us when we took swift action following the Christchurch terror attack – banning semi-automatic firearms and assault rifles. But now a coalition agreement between National and Act could see semi-automatics make a return to gun ranges. In the US, this month marks 25 years since the Columbine high school massacre – where two teenagers murdered 12 students and a teacher. 15-year-old Daniel Mauser was one of those killed in the school’s library. Daniel’s father, Tom, has spent the last 25 years advocating for gun control in America – and he joins us on The Front Page to discuss why New Zealand shouldn’t be complacent when it comes to firearms. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new social media policy is being described as having a chilling effect on politics, and by extension the health of democracy. Meta, the global behemoth that owns Facebook and Instagram, is putting a stranglehold on recommendations in user feeds that contain political content. The move, signalled in February, applies to Instagram and Threads, and will eventually extend to Facebook. Today on The Front Page, Senior writer Derek Cheng joins us to look at what’s happening, why it’s happening, and how it changes the game for politicians. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’ve never met a person who actually knows anything about Daylight Saving Time, just that at some point we lose an hour, and at another point of the year we gain one. And no, it’s not Daylight Savings Time, either. We first introduced it nearly a hundred years ago in 1927 – and the current times have been fixed since 2007. In spring, we change our clocks forward 1 hour to New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT). In autumn, we change our clocks back 1 hour to New Zealand Standard Time (NZST). Today on The Front Page, Take Back the Clocks spokesperson Connor Malloy joins us to discuss where Daylight Saving Time came from, and how we might be able to get rid of it. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since its inception, it’s safe to say the Three Strikes law has faced its fair share of criticism. Academics have condemned it for promoting penal populism and disproportionately targeting Māori and Pasifika communities. Despite this, the return of the controversial law has made its way onto the Government’s next action plan. So, does Three Strikes only stand as a symbol of a Government’s ‘tough on crime’ approach? Or, will it garner better results a second time around? Today on The Front Page, Auckland University of Technology criminal law professor Warren Brookbanks joins us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has honed in on rebuilding the economy as a priority for the coming months. Amongst several promises in a new action plan, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has promised to deliver a budget that reduces wasteful spending, delivers tax relief to hardworking New Zealanders, and invests in frontline services. Yet this promise comes days after his Finance Minister once again highlighted the fragile state of the economy. So how bad are things looking, and should we still be looking at tax cuts? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny joins to take a look at the state of our economy. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

CEOs in New Zealand continue to get paid more than ever. While not as high as the 15 per cent increases seen in 2022, remuneration packages for NZX-listed chief executives increased on average by 3.58 percent in the 2023 financial year. And despite a stagnant local share market, one CEO has set a new record for the largest ever pay packet in the history of the Herald’s CEO pay survey. To run us through the trends and the seven figure salaries, we’re joined today on The Front Page by BusinessDesk investigations writer Murray Jones. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s flicking the off switch on EV owners. From today, road user charges will have to be paid for light electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids. Bringing EVs in line with other vehicles has been a priority for this government, but little else in the plans so far have suggested what their strategy is for the environment and climate change. Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political and climate reporter Demelza Jackson joins to discuss if this government is making the right moves for the planet’s future. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The financial year is coming to an end. While that may not mean a lot for the average Kiwi, when the new financial year kicks off on April 1st, many of us could see a little more money in our back pockets. This is when the Annual General Adjustment takes place, with things like benefits and the minimum wage rising to account for inflation or wage growth. It’s also one of the dates when tax changes or new fees come into effect – and this year, that means changes for EV drivers and those with a family. To discuss what these changes mean for you, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by NZ Herald business editor at large and author of BBQ Economics, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today marks 40 years since Ernie Abbott went to work at Wellington’s Trade Hall, and never returned home. On March 27, 1984, the caretaker was locking up for the day when he spied a discarded light-green suitcase on the ground behind a wall. Curious, he picked it up by its cloth-wrapped handle - triggering a mercury switch hidden inside. He was killed instantly as the force tore through the passageway of the Vivian St building. The Police investigation to find the man who was seen carrying the suitcase into the building just before 7.30am that day has garnered more than 550 suspects and thousands of exhibits. Today on The Front Page, Detective Sergeant Sam McKenzie joins to discuss whether police are any closer to closing this cold case. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour is going back to the drawing board - and tax is on the table. Party leader Chris Hipkins has delivered his first major speech in Opposition, six months after Labour were kicked out of government. He has taken aim at the country’s tax system as being inequitable, and laid blame for the current financial woes at National’s feet. Today on The Front Page, Hipkins joins to discuss what his party plans to offer the country at the next election, as well as to respond to recent criticism of the past government's actions on race and crime, and if he will run again in 2026. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For over 50 years, the secretive Christian community of Gloriavale has fascinated New Zealanders. While the community has long been discussed by former members who have left Gloriavale behind, in the last few years, multiple official investigations and Employment Court proceedings have shone more light on what's happening behind the scenes. Now, a new TVNZ documentary, Escaping Utopia, is looking back at the community’s chequered history and its recent problems. Today on The Front Page, co-director Justin Pemberton joins us to explain this fresh look at historic concerns. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, has been diagnosed with cancer. She revealed the news in a video released this weekend, after months away from the public eye following abdominal surgery. The public was told that surgery was not related to cancer – but subsequent tests revealed the Princesses condition, and she is now undergoing chemotherapy. So what does this mean for the Royal Family that’s now facing two cancer battles at the same time? For this special bonus episode, UK correspondent Gavin Grey joins The Front Page from London to discuss this latest royal shocker. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government earlier this month made it through its first 100 days after a few ups and downs, but the months ahead could be a little rougher. Questions continue to be asked about how the coalition can fund its much-promised tax cuts amid reports of a growing fiscal hole and criticism from international financial agencies, with just two months left until this National-led government delivers its first budget. To talk us through the state of the economy, the public’s feedback on the government, and the state of his other portfolios, today on The Front Page we’re joined by Associate Finance Minister and Act Party leader, David Seymour. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boeing - one of the world’s largest airplane manufacturers and once its most well respected - has seen a string of concerning incidents have tarnished that reputation. This year alone, we’ve seen a door plug blow off mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 in January, while closer to home, a LATAM Airlines flight from Sydney to Auckland plunged mid-air – injuring at least 50 passengers, some seriously. It comes only a few years after two fatal crashes involving Boeing 737 Max plans only five months apart. 189 people died when Lion Air Flight 610 crashed into the Java Sea in October 2018, and in March 2019, an Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crashed, killing 157 people. One of those people was Graziella de Luis y Ponce, a United Nations interpreter. Her brother is Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics lecturer, Javier de Luis. He was then asked to serve on the US Federal Aviation Administration’s panel that reviewed Boeing’s safety practice last year. He joins The Front Page today to discuss the ongoing issues with Boeing. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two brothers have been arrested in Thailand this week after an alleged roadside tussle with a police officer. Video appears to show Hamish and Oscar Day wrestling with an officer for his gun, after reportedly being pulled over for speeding. They are just the latest in a very long line of Kiwis who have run afoul of the law overseas – but what exactly are your rights if you clash with cops while on holiday? Today on The Front Page, we discuss this with Waikato University international law expert, Alexander Gillespie. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s rolling out the red carpet for China’s foreign minister -- with Wang Yi’s visit marking the highest-level diplomatic engagement with New Zealand’s largest trading partner on our soil in at least seven years. It comes as China continues advocating for its ‘One China’ policy with Taiwan, while our coalition government explores expanding our trading horizons. So is our relationship with China still strong, and can it survive China’ slowing economy? Today on The Front Page, NZ Contemporary China Research Centre director and Victoria University associate professor Jason Young joins us to discuss our relationship with China, how it’s blossomed, and where it’s headed. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Five years have passed since the Christchurch mosque terror attack, the country’s first ever terror attack, but it only took another two and a half years for another one to occur at a New Lynn supermarket. A year ago, top security and intelligence officials revealed they had foiled three further terror threats. So, five years on from our darkest day, how concerned should be about threats going forwards? Today on The Front Page, Massey University distinguished professor Paul Spoonley joins to discuss his decades of research into this area. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chloe Swarbrick has this week become the new co-leader of the Green Party Her rapid rise to become the youngest current party leader in New Zealand comes a little over six years since she entered Parliament, and seven years since she made national headlines for running for the Auckland mayoralty. So, what does the 29-year-old want to do when she takes the reins of the third biggest party in Parliament? Today on The Front Page, Chloe Swarbrick joins us to discuss her rise to the top of the Greens. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Photoshop fails are hardly a new thing – but rarely, if ever, do they involve members of the British Royal Family. A seemingly harmless photo of the Princess of Wales and her three children has turned into a major embarrassment, after eagle-eyed followers saw noticeable edits had been made to the photo. It has reignited not only a debate about the Royal Family’s secrecy, but also on photo manipulation as AI tools gain more prominence. Today on The Front Page, New Zealand Herald deputy lifestyle editor Emma Gleason digs into the mystery behind the photo, and AI expert Dr Paul Duignan joins later to discusst how worried we should be about this. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has announced it will restore deductibility for mortgage interest on residential investment properties. But it is not as much tax relief for these property investors as National promised Act in the parties’ coalition agreement. So, what’s changed? And does that mean other policies in their agreement are also up for renegotiation? And, is this government prioritising landlords over renters - a group that’s a growing part of the population. Today on The Front Page, New Zealand Herald deputy political editor Thomas Coughlan joins us to discuss whether this is a political win for the Government. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TVNZ has become the latest media company to cut back on its news programming. The state-owned broadcaster has proposed to shut down current affairs shows Sunday and Fair Go later this year amid cost savings measures. With Newshub also on the chopping block, local news is facing a true crisis, and many are wondering if there’s a way back from the edge. Today on The Front Page, Auckland University of Technology journalism lecturer Dr Greg Treadwell joins to analyse the state of local media. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Government talks about cracking down on crime, they often refer to gangs and retail crime that leave a visible mark behind. But, for a growing number of New Zealanders, online scams are becoming the most common crime many of us deal with. It’s estimated that we’re losing around 200 million dollars a year to cyber crime – but given many of those affected may be too embarrassed to report a crime, some think that figure is closer to 2 billion. So is there anything that can be done to stop these crimes, and is the government putting enough focus on this issue? Today on The Front Page, Banking Association chief executive Roger Beaumont joins us as part of the Herald’s new Scambusters series to discuss this rapidly growing area. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National has unveiled their plan for transport over the next term and it includes some new fees coming your way. Getting a Motor Vehicle Registration is about to become a lot more expensive, while promises not to raise fuel taxes are being kept – but only just. All of this is to fund a revival of the National Party’s Roads of National Significance, but are voters going to care when it means higher costs to drive on them? Today on The Front Page, New Zealand Herald senior political journalist Derek Cheng joins to analyse the Government’s big transport shakeup. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has set every part of the public service a target to find savings between 6.5 and 7.5 per cent before the Budget is delivered in May. These cuts have been discussed since the campaign trail, but what impact they are set to have is yet to be seen. Now, thanks to the Official Information Act, we have some idea of how 11 Ministries are trying to tackle this – and it has led to a lot of concern within the departments that run the country. Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB Wellington reporter Azaria Howell joins to discuss what we’ve learned about the cost crunch happening behind the scenes in our ministries. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After two trials, David Charles Benbow has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Michael McGrath in 2017. Benbow will spend at least 17 years behind bars for McGrath’s death in a case that has garnered national attention. And that’s because McGrath’s body has never been found. New Zealand Herald senior crime reporter Sam Sherwood has been following this case for seven years, and even served as a witness for the Crown during the first trial. He joins The Front Page to discuss this captivating case. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the cost of living crisis drags on, it seems even some of the country’s top educators can’t avoid the woes of inflation. An analysis by the Herald has revealed school fees for many of the country’s top private schools have risen drastically in the last two years. So what’s driving those costs – and do these schools results justify the fees? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior journalist Alex Spence talks us through the rising cost of going to the country’s most exclusive schools, and later, Head of Data Chris Knox looks at the results for these schools. You can read both pieces by Alex and Chris here: Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank last week announced the Official Cash Rate would stay at 5.5 per cent. But while things are looking positive for a cut sooner than expected, the Bank has warned inflation is still sitting above where it needs to be. So, in the wake of our major publicly listed companies reporting their half-year results, how is the economy holding up, and can we expect a sunny or stormy outlook for the coming months? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann joins us for his take on the state of our economy. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The deaths of Sydney couple Jesse Baird and Luke Davies have gripped both sides of the Tasman for the last week. After a nearly week long search, Police on Tuesday said they have found their bodies in Bungonia in southern New South Wales. While the search may be over, questions remain over the response of New South Wales police, particularly as one of their own is alleged to have committed this crime. ABC News reporter Isaac Nowroozi was at the scene in Bungonia earlier this week. He joins The Front Page today to discuss the case that has shocked Australia, and the world. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Later today, Fa’anānā Efeso Collins will be laid to rest. The former Auckland Councillor and mayoral candidate turned Green MP, died suddenly last week after participating in a charity event. His funeral is expected to draw a massive crowd in Manukau, a sign of the massive respect he was held in by the wider South Auckland community he so passionately advocated for. Vaimoana Mase, the editor of the Herald’s Pasifika section, Talanoa, first met Collins as a teenager 21 years ago, and has followed his growth and career during her own. She joins The Front Page to discuss the outpouring of grief and love for the late Efeso Collins. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Newshub – the news brand of Warner Bros Discovery-owned TV network Three – is due to close in June. The shocking news was delivered to staff earlier today, with many of them now expected to lose their jobs. So what led to the end of a news brand that has been around in various forms since 1989? And does it speak to broader worries about the local industry? In this bonus episode of The Front Page, Media Insider and editor at large Shayne Currie joins to discuss the tragic end of another major news giant. Host: Chelsea DanielsProducer: Ethan SillsEditor: Evan Paea Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has moved forward with plans to table a bill to disestablish the Maori Health Authority, tabling a bill this week that would see the authority shuttered after less than two years of operation. It follows through on a campaign promise by all three coalition partners, and is a part of their 100-day plan. So why is the authority being shut down after less than two years of operation – and, as the health system struggles with staffing shortages and high waiting times, where does this sit within the government’s other health priorities? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald health reporter Isaac Davison joins to discuss how the government plans to turn around an under-pressure health system. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While Kiwis can celebrate an extra day of summer thanks to 2024 being a leap year, the good weather times may not last much longer. With autumn nipping at our heels, it’s nearly time to swap out the togs and towels out for scarves and sweaters. But just what do the cooler months have in store for us? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald science reporter Jamie Morton joins to dig into our strange end of summer weather, and whether the rest of the years’ systems are heading the same way. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While hundreds of people go missing in New Zealand every year, most of the time it only takes a few days or weeks before they return or Police track them down. However, sadly for some families, their loved ones never return home. And dozens of these missing persons cases from 1957 to 2023 remain open and active across Aotearoa. Senior crime and justice reporter Anna Leask has covered many of these files in her podcasts, A Moment in Crime and Chasing Ghosts, and has gone through the records to detail many of the country’s current active inquiries. She joins us today on The Front Page to explain what constitutes a missing person, and what happens when a body is never found. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two years have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine, but there is still no end in sight for the conflict. As Ukraine desperately seeks funding and support from its global allies, the war continues in an effective stalemate, with both sides struggling to make ground. However, could the suspicious death of incarcerated Russian opposition leader, Alexei, Navalny spur Western forces to take more of a stand against Vladimir Putin? For much of the last two years, Kiwi journalist Tom Mutch has been following the conflict on the ground in Ukraine. He joins The Front Page today from Kyiv for the latest on this war. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Grant Robertson announced earlier this week he is leaving politics. He is the latest member of the Labour Party who has chosen greener pastures over three years of being back in Opposition. So with Grant Robertson out the door, where does that leave Labour as it looks to rebuild, and are the remaining MPs strong enough to hold the Government to account? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald political editor Claire Trevett joins to dig into Robertson’s legacy and Labour’s future. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yet another fire has burnt through hundreds of hectares of vegetation on Christchurch’s Port Hills. It would’ve been deja vu for residents – for those who experienced the 2017 fire – as the blaze forced hundreds to evacuate their homes and required round the clock action by firefighters to try and contain it. The fire has largely been contained – but as the planet gets hotter, how common could these types of wildfires become in years to come? And as we reconsider building on floodplains and cliffsides, do we also need to look at the fire risk when building homes? Today on The Front Page, we're joined by director of climate change consultancy Climate Prescience, Dr Nathaneal Melia, to discuss the fire risk of our changing climate, and University of Auckland lecturer in Urban Planning, Dr Iresh Jayawardena, joins to explore if that risk should make us reconsider where we build. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New stats out last week drove home the message that New Zealand is in a population boom. While a record number of us departed our shores, New Zealand still added an additional 145,000 people - the largest population growth we’ve seen this century. So what’s driving this influx of people, and is it sustainable for a country that seems to be running out of money to grow further? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann joins to answer the question – is New Zealand growing too fast? Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Custody battles are always complex and require courts to balance the needs of the child with both parents’ wishes. When different legal jurisdictions are in play, that process becomes far more complicated. The Hague Convention is a powerful international treaty signed by over 100 countries, which assumes the courts in the country where the child usually lives are best placed to make decisions about their welfare. This treaty is supposed to make things easier, but as some recent cases have shown, it’s not the golden solution it should be. Today on The Front Page, University of Auckland law professor Mark Henaghan joins to explain how the Convention works and if after 40 years it's still fit for purpose. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A horror half-year result has exposed major issues for Fletcher Building. One of/The largest construction companies in New Zealand reported a 120-million-dollar loss earlier this week, causing their share prices to plummet and forcing multiple key resignations. Fletcher Building is not the only organisation in the industry reeling from losses, as a grim outlook of declining consents and rising building costs suggests a tough time ahead. So, what is driving these woes, and how widespread is the issue around the country? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald’s Property Insider Anne Gibson weighs in on Fletcher’s losses and who might be next.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The country’s infrastructure woes became very clear for commuters in our biggest city earlier this week. Aucklanders were stunned after dozens of trains were delayed or cancelled right at rush hour, due to speed restrictions enforced by KiwiRail to combat overheated rail lines. It’s yet another example of our aging infrastructure, and the dire need for us to invest in replacing and upgrading failing parts of the national network. So how much would it cost to get the trains running on time – and is there the political will to meet the price tag? Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Nick Leggett to discuss the costly issues facing the Government. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2023 was a year of dashed hopes for sports fans, with New Zealand missing the mark at four separate world cups. Now, with a new All Blacks coach, stadium proposals for downtown Auckland, and the Olympics on the horizon, our athletes will be dusting themselves off and looking towards the future. So will Scott Robertson be able to make his mark on the All Blacks? Can the Up the Wahs phenomenon take the Warriors further than last year? And who is going to bring home the Olympic gold? To preview the year ahead for Kiwi sports, we’re joined on The Front Page by Newstalk ZB sports journalist and co-host of the Rugby Direct podcast, Elliott Smith. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Later this year when Americans return to the polls for their next Presidential election, they are likely to experience a bit of deja vu. Number 46 Joe Biden is likely to face Number 45 Donald Trump in a rematch of 2020, and as we slowly edge closer to election day, both men find themselves facing intense criticism for very different reasons. So will Biden be able to overcome concerns about his age and memory to hold onto the White House, or could Trump make a return despite a series of criminal cases? Today on The Front Page, Newshub US correspondent Mitch McCann joins from New York to weigh in on the upcoming election in the land of the free. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tension between Auckland Council and the Government has flared up once again. Mayor Wayne Brown is unhappy with the coalition Government’s decision to axe the Auckland fuel tax, arguing that transport projects are going to have to be cancelled – as he has ruled out increasing rates to pay for the funding shortfall. It comes as Auckland Transport faces criticism for eye-watering costs for level pedestrian crossings and lengthy delays with road works on a key commuter route. So does the city need more Government support to pay for its projects, or a rethink of how it pays for what it’s already doing? Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by New Zealand Herald Super City reporter Bernard Orsman to quite literally dig into the saga of pedestrian crossings. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Swift is the most famous person in the world right now. Whether she is shattering records with her globe-trotting world tour and accompanying movie, or using award show wins for one album to announce another, Swiftmania is unavoidable. And that’s not going to change in the next few weeks, with her expected appearance at the Super Bowl alongside her sports star boyfriend, Travis Kelce, before bringing her Eras Tour to Australia. So how has Swift gone from being a country popstar to world domination, and is she immune from another backlash like the one that nearly brought her down previously? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald deputy lifestyle editor Emma Gleason joins to discuss why this is Taylor’s world and we’re just living in it. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aotearoa’s model for stubbing out cigarette use became world-renowned in 2022 when the Government passed legislation banning the sale of tobacco to anyone born after January 2009. However, some fear that progress has gone up in smoke after the coalition Government announced late last year it would repeal the smokefree laws. The plan was labelled ‘completely backwards’ by some public health experts at the time, and in the months since more controversy has followed. Today on The Front Page, Herald deputy political editor Thomas Coghlan joins us to unpack the new Government’s plan for a smokefree future and why it's been so contentious. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Katie HarrisSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buckingham Palace stunned the world this week by announcing that King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer. The King had already made headlines after being treated for an enlarged prostate, a procedure that has led to this new and more serious diagnosis. Only 17 months into his reign, what does this health crisis mean for our Head of State, and for the wider monarchy that now has two senior royals off duties for very different health reasons. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined from London by UK correspondent Gavin Grey for the latest on this new royal shock. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington has found itself at odds with the new Government. Residents of the capital city last year voted to send two Green MPs to Parliament, joining Green Party-endorsed Mayor Tory Whanau in representing the city. While National swept to power in a blue wave in other parts of the country, the election result in Wellington was not exactly an endorsement of the new Government’s policies. So, where does this leave Wellington? How does a city council that desperately needs more money navigate a right-leaning Government? And is Tory Whanau the right person for the job? Today on The Front Page, NZME’s Wellington head of news Katrina Bennett and playwright Dave Armstrong join Georgina Campbell to discuss the challenges facing our capital city. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Georgina CampbellSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.