The Front Page

As the year comes to an end, there’s no sign yet of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine reaching a conclusion any time soon. The Ukrainian people remain committed to their fight, and have seen wins in recent weeks. But a change in approach from Russia means many Ukrainians are in for a cold, dark Christmas. Today, Damien speaks to New Zealand journalist Tom Mutch, who has spent most of the year in Ukraine covering the war, but has just arrived back in Aotearoa 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Covid-19 has continued to be a dark shadow hanging heavy over everything that has happened in 2022 - and it seems that this disease is not yet done with us. Cases are tracking up and dozens of New Zealanders are continuing to die weekly. So how worrying is the rise in cases amid waning immunity and more relaxed behaviour over the summer holidays? And what long-term strategy does the Government have in place to deal with the ongoing threat of Covid-19? Today, NZ Herald science writer Jamie Morton joins Damien to share his insight on the virus that just won’t go away. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The political year is coming to an end, and what a year it has been. Rogue MPs, shock resignations, and legislative controversies have dominated headlines for both sides of the House this year. And as things wind down, attention is firmly focused on the general election, and if Labour and the Greens can make it to a third term or if National and Act will be in control by this time next year. To discuss the year that’s been and what it means for the next 12 months, Damien is joined by NZ Herald political editor Claire Trevett for her thoughts on 2022's political highs and lows. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophisticated online scams are costing New Zealanders millions of dollars every year, and the problem is only becoming worse. Scammers operate in teams outside of Aotearoa, creating elaborate schemes that could catch even the most tech-savvy among us. So how do these scams work? Do victims have any chance of getting their money back once it leaves their accounts? And what are some of the key warning signs we should be looking out for? Today, NZ Herald investigative reporter Matt Nippert tells Damien what he learned in the course of tracking down and confronting an unrepentant scammer, and NZ Herald news director Lane Nichols shares his insight after covering a number of heartbreaking stories about Kiwis losing their life savings due to the cruelty of scammers. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today marks three years since the Whakaari/White Island disaster, which saw 22 people lose their lives after being caught up in an eruption on the island. Now, the story of what happened on the island is being told by the survivors and first responders in a new documentary, The Volcano – Rescue from Whakaari, out on Netflix next week. The movie is directed by Oscar nominee Rory Kennedy and co-written and produced by Dallas Brennan Rexer. Today, guest host Jenni Mortimer asks why they wanted to tell this story, and what they make of the ongoing controversy surrounding the tragedy. 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: Jenni MortimerProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new Netflix series is set to shake the Royal Family once again. Harry and Meghan will follow the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and document their new lives in Los Angeles, and the fallout from their departure as working British royals. The series has everyone talking, but will we get new information about the couple and their familial conflict, or is this a cash grab from Netflix, tapping into an ongoing controversy? And how will this affect the Royal Family, as they near an end of a tumultuous and tragic year for the institution? Today, Damien is joined by NZ Herald lifestyle reporter Bethany Reitsma to discuss what to expect from this already controversial documentary series. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s long mooted merger of TVNZ and RNZ into a new state broadcaster is coming closer to fruition. The new entity is only three months away, with the two powers set to be merged into the catchily titled Aotearoa New Zealand Public Media by March 1st. But questions still remain about how necessary the merger is, who will be chairing the board, and how much money is being spent – none of which has been helped by a trainwreck interview by Broadcasting Minister Willie Jackson. Today, Myles Thomas, chair at the Better Public Media Trust, joins Damien for a discussion about the merger creating headaches 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three Waters has again made headlines for all the wrong reasons. This time the Government has had to back down on an entrenchment clause that would have made it more difficult for future governments to alter the legislation. The move has been dubbed 'absolute chaos' by National Party leader Christopher Luxon, and further muddies the water around an already controversial proposal. So what would the entrenchment clause have done, how did it make it into the bill in the first place, and why was it originally considered necessary? Today, Damien is joined by NZ Herald deputy political editor and host of On The Tiles, Thomas Coughlan. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NZ Herald has kicked off the next stage in its project, The New New Zealand – Rebuilding Better. This time, as chosen by readers, the focus is on the social division our country is experiencing. Some of that disunity stems from the level of disinformation that was bubbling under the surface of polite society but boiled over in the wake of the Covid pandemic. So why are people still protesting outside courts and hospitals? How can you reach out to someone who has the mistaken belief that they live in a fascist police state? 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 DanielsProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aotearoa has its first convicted saboteur. 62-year-old Graham Philip was sentenced to just over three years in jail for an attack on the National Grid in November last year. Since laws were introduced during the Second World War, it is the first time anyone has been charged with sabotage in this country. So what is sabotage in law, what did Philip actually do, and are there any concerns about others following the same path? Today, Shaun D Wilson is joined by Open Justice reporter Ethan Griffiths to explain what’s happened here and why we are only just now learning the details. 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/Producer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's December, which means the festive shopping season has just officially kicked off. Many people may want to treat themselves and their loved ones, but with a recession due next year, there is some hesitancy around potential overspending – and official warnings to spend less this year. So how much should we be spending this year, and how should you best manage your money this time of year? Today, guest host Chelsea Daniels chats with Sasha Lockley, the CEO and co-founder of social lender Money Sweetspot to talk about making the most of what you’ve got over the Christmas period. Plus, NZ Herald Business Editor at Large Liam Dann digs into where our economy is in the wake of Black Friday and the Official Cash Rate rise. 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 DanielsProducer: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six months ago, few people in New Zealand had a clue who Simon Henry was. He was just an anonymous millionaire running his successful business. But then, all of a sudden, his comments referring to My Food Bag founder Nadia Lim catapulted him into the public consciousness for all the wrong reasons. NZ Herald investigative journalist Carolyne Meng-yee has been trying to secure an interview with Henry ever since those comments were made. She finally got to sit down with the man for an extensive chat on Lim, business and life in Christchurch. Today, Carolyne Meng-yee joins guest host Chelsea Daniels to share a glimpse of the world according to Simon Henry and why we should pay attention to his comments. 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 DanielsProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost every week another story emerges about an employer behaving badly and having to make a significant payout to an employee. Most of the stories come from the dispute decisions released by the Employment Relations Authority and they provide a glimpse at what happens when things go wrong in the workplace. So are New Zealand employers particularly badly behaved? Is the employment relations authority doing enough to hold employers accountable for their actions? And do employees have access to the justice being offered? 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. Guest Host: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been four decades since the Equal Pay Act was first released, but women still do not earn as much as men. The average gap is so significant that women are ostensibly working for free from today when compared to their male counterparts. This divide is even more pronounced when you look at the pay of Aotearoa’s Māori and Pasifika. So why does this problem persist? How much progress has actually been made in recent years? And what can be done to speed up the progress toward pay equity? Today, I’m joined by the chair of Global Women, former CEO of Telecom, and longtime campaigner for pay parity Theresa Gattung, to talk about the cost of being a woman. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The endless discussion about a second Auckland Harbour Crossing is back. The Government is consulting Aucklanders on if they want a bridge or tunnel across the Waitemata Harbour to go alongside the existing bridge. It comes after years of back and forth on ideas for crossings, while those using the existing Harbour Bridge contend with an aging infrastructure prone to closures. So why does it take so long to get these major projects off the ground in Aotearoa? What goes on behind the scenes to take these key pieces of infrastructure from the drawing board to reality? Today, Damien is joined by North Shore Auckland Councillor and former Planning Committee Chair Chris Darby to break down what goes in to building our cities. 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: Damien VenutoProducers: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ram raids, gang wars, random attacks, school lockdowns, domestic violence – the news cycle has been endless, and it has rarely painted Government crime policies in good light. The National Party has put it top of the agenda ahead of the 2023 election, promising to punish youth offenders and hitting out at Labour’s crime policies as ‘kumbaya’. The man in charge of that for the Government is Police Minister Chris Hipkins, who was appointed to the portfolio back in June when ram raids were at their peak. Today, Damien is joined by the minister to discuss what he’s witnessed over the last five months, Labour’s policies versus National’s, and what government statistics show about the extent of crime in New Zealand. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last few weeks have not been good to the superstars of the tech industry. Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, has dominated headlines for weeks after finally completing his purchase of social media giant Twitter, and subsequently overseeing a mass departure of staff and the breakdown of the platform he bought. Speaking of collapse, the dramatic fall of FTX and founder Sam Bankman-Fried has again raised questions about the sustainability of crypto. So where have things gone wrong for these tech giants, and what does this tell us about the self-mythology of founders? Today, Vaughn Davis, the founder of ad agency The Goat Farm, joins Damien for a chat about the strange tech overlords managing billions of dollars. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Covid is on the rise in New Zealand once again. Reports around the country point to an uptick of cases, sparking concern that we could be facing yet another wave of infections. It arrives at a time when we have no Government-mandated rules left to protect us and many New Zealanders have moved on with their lives. So is there anything we can do to stem the tide? Should private companies still impose Covid rules? And will small tourist towns bear the brunt of the outbreak over the summer months? Today, Otago University epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker, joins Damien to discuss why the pandemic is not yet done with us. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been nearly one year since Christopher Luxon took over the reins at the National Party. Since Luxon took over, the party has become more stable and steadily risen in the polls. But his tenure hasn’t been without its mishaps. He has dealt with MP controversies, made his own public gaffes, and there are still serious questions about National’s policies in the lead-up to next year's election. Today, Damien is joined Newstalk ZB chief political reporter Aaron Dahmen for his analysis of the big political battle shaping up for 2023. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Europe heads into the cold winter months, there still no indication of the war between Russia and Ukraine coming to an end. The Ukrainian army has made major advances and taken back much of their country. Meanwhile, Russian casualties are piling up and the Putin’s forces are now responding with a barrage of missile attacks, a strategy that inadvertently led to the deaths of two people in Poland. So what does this mean for the European economies, particularly Ukraine and Russia? With its back to the wall, could Russia pull the trigger on a nuclear weapon? And is there a risk of the rest of the world stops caring about the struggle of the Ukrainian people? Today, Damien is by joined Newshub Europe correspondent Lisette Reymer, who has visited Ukraine five times this year, for an update on the ongoing war. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drownings are making headlines, again. It’s an ominous warning for our summer months, the time when New Zealanders head to the waves to seek relief from the scorching sun. Water safety remains a massive problem in Aotearoa. Dozens lose their lives to drowning every year. So why is this problem so difficult to address? Who is most at risk of drowning? And what can we do to stay safe while enjoying a summer swim? Today, Water Safety NZ chief executive Daniel Gerrard joins Damien for a discussion on the dangers of one of our favourite pastimes. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Ferns have solidified their place as Aotearoa’s most successful national sports team, claiming a record sixth World Cup title. Despite the persistent narrative that audiences aren’t interested in Women’s sport, stadiums were filled during the tournament and viewers tuned in in record numbers to watch the final live. So is the women’s game finally getting the respect it deserves? Or is there more work to be done to ensure parity between men’s and women’s sport in this country? 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: Damien VenutoEditor: Paddy FoxProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 2022 Men's Football World Cup in Qatar has been drenched in scandal from the moment it was announced. That controversy has only grown as the small nation has prepared to host the 31 other countries that will be participating in the tournament. Human rights abuses have been widely reported in the building of stadiums. With estimates suggesting thousands of migrant workers have died in build-up to the tournament. Now there are also concerns for fans, given Qatar is a nation where alcohol is illegal and homosexuality is punishable by death. So how does all this fit into FIFA’s desired image of being a progressive organisation helping the game? Have we learnt anything from this fiasco? And where does this leave fans who love the game but question what FIFA stands for? Today, NZ Herald sports reporter Michael Burgess joins Damien for a discussion about the most controversial world cup of all time. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The way we talk about mental health in Aotearoa is changing for the better. But we often don’t realise that those we deal with every day, even some of the people close to us, are facing intense personal struggles. NZ Herald health reporter Emma Russell has quietly fought to manage her bipolar disorder over the last few years. An exceptional reporter, few of her colleagues knew of Emma’s struggles. Today, Emma Russell, joins Damien to explain that what you see on the surface isn’t always what’s going on behind the scenes. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans have headed to the polls to make their voices heard in their mid-term elections. Most anticipated a red wave to sweep over the nation, with the Republicans expected to take both the house and the senate after waging a campaign centred on spreading the false narrative that the 2020 election was rigged. But things haven’t played out like that. The race instead has been far closer, with President Joe Biden calling it a good day for democracy. So why the did red wave not materialise? And what does this mean for the prospects of former President Donald Trump running again in 2024? Today, Damien is joined by TVNZ US Correspondent Anna Burns-Francis, who’ll help us get a grip on this changing political landscape. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The residents of Hamilton West will soon be heading to the polls. A by-election was sparked last month after Dr Gaurav Sharma resigned from Parliament, after weeks of allegations against his former party, Labour. Labour is now looking to hold the seat, while National is eyeing up another gain – yet neither party seems to be talking up their chances of success. So who are the main candidates running, and is it going to be closer than we think? Today, I’m joined by NZ Herald political reporter Adam Pearse to discuss the race to become the country’s newest MP. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s major banks have posted billions of dollars in profits. This has led to criticism from Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who said it was wrong for banks to be making massive profits at a time when New Zealanders are struggling to make ends meet. Stable banks have long been seen as integral to the economy, but do the current profits go too far? And if so, what can we do to address this issue, in a way that doesn’t harm economic stability in Aotearoa? Today, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann joins Damien for discussion about the money machines in the New Zealand 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frustrations are growing in Rotorua about the state of emergency housing. On the city’s famous motel strip, Fenton Street, the tourists have been replaced by emergency housing residents, with so many motels filled up that the street has now been nicknamed ‘MSD MIle’. Residents and local politicians are demanding change, with even those stuck in these motels keen to move on. So is anything being done to alleviate a problem that seems to be causing concerns for all parties involved? Today, Damien is joined by Rotorua Daily Post reporter Kelly Makiha. Her series Fighting for Rotorua is spotlighting the crisis consuming the 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: Damien VenutoProducers: Paddy Fox and Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netflix’s royal family drama The Crown returns this week, and is facing more controversy than ever. The series has been attacked by the British press and actors such as Dame Judi Dench over how it blurs the line between fact and fiction. It’s just the latest Netflix product “based on true events” to face this type of criticism – with Dahmer, The Watcher and The Stranger all facing similar backlash in recent months. So how important is the truth when it comes to entertainment, and how do revisit past events in a way that’s sensitive to those who were involved? On today's episode, Damien is joined by NZ Herald lifestyle and entertainment editor Jenni Mortimer (One Day You'll Thank Me) and NZ Herald crime writer Anna Leask (A Moment in Crime) for a discussion on the sensitivity around adapting true stories. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There has been no political issue in New Zealand more divisive in recent months than Three Waters. The Government’s plan to centralise water management has been met with sharp opposition around the country. Critics say the plan will take power away from the local councils closest to the people affected, but the Government remains adamant that this move is necessary to keep rates low and improve water management around the country. So what is the thinking behind Three Waters? Why are people so angry about it? And does it have any chance of actually coming to fruition? On today's episode, NZ Herald senior writer Simon Wilson joins Damien to explain why this policy has divided the nation. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand has seen a lot of upheaval in recent years, from Covid-19 to economic and social turmoil. The silver lining to the struggles is we now have a chance to recover in a way that sets Aotearoa up for the future. But that requires some brave thinking. The NZ Herald is exploring our potential pathways in a series called The New New Zealand – Rebuilding Better. To help kick things off, Damien is joined by Steve Armitage from events and tourism consultancy Daylight and Georgina Stylianou from Government relations PR firm BRG, to tackle the challenges and opportunities in Aotearoa’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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand LinkedIn has blown up with accusations of smear campaigns, bullying and corporate villains. This string of accusations has its genesis in the fraught relationship between the Government’s Callaghan Innovation and Kiwi startup Manaaki. This has led to a director quitting her role and posting a not-so-subtle rebuke of what she saw while working at Callaghan Innovation. There have also been revelations about the involvement of a private investigator, who was commissioned to look into the dealings of Manaaki. Today, BusinessDesk managing editor Pattrick Smellie joins Damien to dig into the troubled relationship between these two organisations. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s President Xi Jinping was recently voted in for an unprecedented third term. He has also strengthened his grip on the Communist Party, putting his allies into many key roles. The news has sparked concerns about what Xi’s plans for China – and neighbouring Taiwan – will be. But how much do we actually know about what’s happening within the world’s most populated country? Is an invasion of Taiwan likely? And what does all this mean for a small country like New Zealand, which has grown hugely dependent on trade with China? Today, Damien is joined by international relations expert Professor Stephen Noakes, from the University of Auckland, for a discussion about the tense relationship between The Red Dragon and the West. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After months of back and forth, Elon Musk is officially the new owner of social media giant Twitter. The world’s richest man has sought to reassure advertisers that Twitter would not "become a free-for-all hellscape” under his watch, but Musk has already started sharing fake news on the site, while his admirers have used his arrival in the building as a reason to launch hateful troll campaigns. Today, Damien is joined by Professor Colin Gavaghan, director of the University of Otago’s Centre for Law and Policy in Emerging Technologies, to discuss what the law really says about free speech. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last few months have been a tumultuous period for the All Blacks. A string of poor results had fans baying for the blood of coach Ian Foster, who somehow managed to survive. On the surface, New Zealand Rugby appeared to back Foster, but the uncovering of a number of covert meetings suggests that Crusaders coach Scott ‘Razor’ Roberston came far closer to landing the job than previously known. Today, rugby writer Gregor Paul joins Damien to discuss his series that shows the inner-workings of New Zealand Rugby. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s health system is facing yet another crisis. Figures show that some people are waiting over six hours for emergency treatment at hospitals, while others are facing year long waits to book surgeries. While the health system is still recovering from Covid-caused delays, Opposition parties and the public want to see change now. But is a quick fix even possible in our underfunded and overburdened healthcare system? Today, Dr Deborah Powell, national secretary of the New Zealand Resident Doctors Association, joins Damien to get a health professional’s perspective on what’s going on with our wait times. 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s no secret that the media loves to focus on crime, with robberies and violence grabbing easy headlines across the nation. But there’s a bigger crime epidemic in this country, one that’s taking place closer to home. Domestic violence remains deeply rooted into New Zealand life – and it’s taking more lives than many of us realise. On average, a child is killed in the home every five weeks. This is on top of the many New Zealanders who survive abuse on a near-daily basis. So how bad is domestic violence in Aotearoa? Are we doing enough to stop it? And why don’t we like to talk about it as much as other crimes? Today, Janet Fanslow, an associate professor at the University of Auckland, joins Damien for a discussion about the crime crisis that no one is talking about. 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: Damien VenutoProducers: Paddy Fox and Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Concerns have been raised about so called ‘involuntary celibates’. Incels, as they are better known, aren’t choosing to abstain of their own volition. Instead, they blame society, and particularly women, for denying them the opportunity for sexual relationships. While this anger has stayed online for the most part, it has been blamed for acts of real world violence. So what exactly are incels? What risks do they pose to the rest of us? And what is New Zealand doing to ensure we don’t end up as the latest country hit by an incel-inspired attack? Today, Damien is joined by NZ Herald journalist and In the Loop co-host Katie Harris for a discussion about an online sub-culture that’s sparked concern. 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: Damien VenutoProducers: Paddy Fox and Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winston Peters has made it clear he is determined to return New Zealand First to Parliament in 2023. Two years after departing as their coalition partner, the 77-year-old has upped his criticism of Labour and is showing no signs of supporting Jacinda Ardern again. He joins a number of parties outside Parliament trying to ride a wave of anti-government sentiment to victory in 2023. But with so many parties fighting for the same vote, how many will actually succeed? And is there room for more moderate parties to break through as well? Today, I’m joined by lobbyist Mark Unsworth for a discussion about who will sing the tune the disgruntled voters will follow. 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The economy has gone through a rough time over the last few years, but one of the positives is that employees have been able to take control. Figures have shown that wages are increasing as the labour market tightens, and bosses have no choice but to cough up to get the staff they are after. It’s never an easy conversation to have, especially not for Kiwis or during inflation and recession worries, so what can the ordinary worker on an average wage do to get the most out of their job? Today, personal finance expert Hannah McQueen joins Damien for a discussion on making your job work for you – and how to avoid financial pitfalls in uncertain economic times. 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forty-five days is a long time in politics, but probably not long enough if you are trying to lead a country. But that’s how long Liz Truss lasted as the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister. After a month of chaos sparked by a mini-budget that crashed the pound, Truss has resigned, sparking a truncated leadership contest in an attempt to right the ship. So how did her reign go so wrong – and is there any salvaging of the UK’s Conservative Party after 12 years in office? Today, on The Front Page, producer Shaun D Wilson is joined by UK correspondent Gavin Grey to unpick the collapse of an incredibly brief premiership. 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/producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On October 19th 2017, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters threw support behind the New Zealand Labour Party, making Jacinda Ardern our 40th Prime Minister and ending nine years of National rule. Labour has gone through plenty of highs and lows over the last five years, but half a decade on, the party seems to be facing its most perilous period in power yet. A rogue backbench MP, a brewing economic nightmare, and growing attacks against some key policies are seeing the party dip in the polls. Five years into power, is Labour able to revive its fortunes before the next general election Today, Newstalk ZB deputy political editor Jason Walls joins Damien to see if there’s any twinkle left in Labour’s stardust. 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand has cancelled William Shakespeare. At least, that’s what you’d believe if you read some of the headlines this week. The latest round of Creative New Zealand funding decisions sparked global outrage after the Shakespeare Globe Centre of New Zealand missed out on funding. But after initial backlash against Creative New Zealand, it appears the outrage was blown out of proportion – and covered up some more serious issues with the latest round of funding. So how did media and commentators get this so wrong, and what can be done to fix arts funding in Aotearoa? Today, Damien is joined by award-winning playwright and culture editor for The Spinoff, Sam Brooks, to discuss the state of arts funding in this country. 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The economic mood around the world is turning gloomier. Economists and bankers have conceded that the fight against inflation is going to take longer than expected – and this also applies to New Zealand. There are also growing concerns that we are headed for a recession. So what will trigger this? How bad will it be? And will the New Zealand economy hold up amid this growing pressure? Today, Damien is joined by NZ Herald personal finance editor and co-host of Continuous Disclosure Tamsyn Parker for a discussion about the economic clouds that are gathering across the world. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor: Paddy FoxProducer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former cabinet Minister Kris Faafoi has confirmed that he will be launching a lobbying firm. In doing so, he joins an influential group of spin doctors who promise influence over and access to some of the biggest decision makers in the country. Faafoi’s quick transition from Government to lobbying has led to questions about whether we should be allowing this at all. So how much sway do lobbyists actually have? Should former politicians be allowed to go straight into lobbying roles? And is our approach to lobbying harming our democracy? Today, author and researcher Max Rashbrooke joins Damien to delve into the complex web of political spin doctors operating behind the scenes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the nation’s most anticipated elections is back for another year. The two-week voting period for Bird of the Year kicks off today, one year after the race made global headlines when the top prize went (confusingly) to a bat. The annual competition run by Forest and Bird is used to making headlines, but there’s a serious message behind all the competition. So how are our native birds faring, and is the country doing enough to help them survive? Today, Forest and Bird’s Ellen Rykers joins Damien to discuss the hot favourites to take out the feathery crown this year. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax cuts are always a hot topic before a general election, and 2023 is shaping up to be no different. However, a new report from Oxfam has ranked New Zealand one hundred and thirty-sixth in the world on our distribution of wealth. So while some want to see tax cuts across the board, including for the very rich, the other end of the spectrum wants to a new tax to break that concentration of wealth. So which tax approach would actually work? And what can we learn from the international community about getting the balance right? Today, Damien is joined by Oxfam Aotearoa advocacy and communications director Jo Spratt and University of Auckland tax expert Professor Craig Elliffe to discuss what the country should do on taxes. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Joe Biden has announced federal pardons for those convicted of cannabis possession, wiping clean a criminal record that may have made it difficult to get a job or accommodation after serving out their sentence. Like the United States, Aotearoa’s drug convictions are tilted heavily against one ethnic group. In their case African-Americans, in our case Māori are much more likely to be prosecuted for drug-related offenses. This has been called a clear example of the systemic racism in our legal system. Should New Zealand also be considering pardons and wider drug reform? Would this send the right message regarding drug use? And do our politicians have an appetite for change after the failure of 2020’s marijuana legalisation referendum? Today, New Zealand Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm joins Damien to hash out the pros and cons of our approach to drugs. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A world-first scheme will see farmers in New Zealand pay for methane emissions from their livestock by 2025. The Government has admitted that getting the scheme in place within three years will "require a significant amount of work". So what is the plan? Will it significantly curtail climate change? And will farmers be able to manage the financial pressure added to their load? Today, Andrew Hoggard, the President of Federated Farmers, joins Damien for a discussion about how this plan will work in practice and what impact it’s likely to have on the farming community. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland has spoken, and the country’s largest city has a new mayor in Wayne Brown. The former mayor of the Far North says his win gives him a mandate for change, with key policies focused on shaking up council-controlled organisations and cutting costs. But how exactly will he deliver on those promises? And with less than a third of Aucklanders bothering to vote, how secure is that mandate? Today, NZ Herald senior writer Simon Wilson joins Damien to discuss the changes ahead under Tāmaki Makaurau’s new mayor. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio 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: Damien VenutoEditor/Producer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.