The Front Page

Few things grip the nation’s attention as firmly as an intense weather event. And recently, it seems that those events are becoming more common and more extreme. This week, New Zealand has been in the path of yet another ‘atmospheric river’ that’s drenched the country, dumping a month’s worth in rain in a matter of hours and again damaging infrastructure. This comes shortly after Australia faced massive floods and as countries in the Northern Hemisphere sweat amid record-breaking heat waves. Today, NZ Herald science reporter Jamie Morton joins Damien to discuss the causes behind these events – and how common they could become. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s widely accepted that New Zealand needs to build more houses to accommodate a rapidly growing population. But as a recently Auckland Council vote shows, there remains an ongoing debate between those who want to see development and those who are worried about how intensification might change the character of a city. Today, NZ Herald senior writer Simon Wilson joins Damien to discuss the debate between character and density being played out across the country - and why time is running out to settle the argument. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christchurch could become New Zealand’s next Super City. Rapid population growth projected over the next few decades has planners mulling whether it might be time to change the way the city is managed. But not everyone is a fan of the Super City project. Former mayors are divided about whether it has worked in Auckland – and some question whether it will actually deliver better results. So, is Christchurch ready for the big changes coming it's way? Or will New Zealand’s next Super City also struggle with some of the teething issues that have plagued Auckland? Today, Christchurch-based senior NZ Herald reporter Kurt Bayer joins Damien to discuss whether Christchurch really could become Super. Host: Damien VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boris Johnson has officially resigned as leader of Britain's Conservative Party. He plans to remain as UK prime minister while the leadership contest is held, but this marks the conclusion of a tenure dogged by scandal. So what was about this moment that made MPs decide enough was enough? And is there any chance that Johnson could bounce back as he has so many times in the past. For this bonus episode, Daily Telegraph chief political correspondent Camilla Turner joins Damien for a discussion on why Boris Johnson was right when he said: “In politics, no one is remotely indispensable.” Host: Damien VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our culture appears to have become dominated by the dreams of the past - whether that’s clinging to the idea of a mythical golden era or just a time when we felt comfortable. This is reflected heavily in today’s entertainment industry. When executives want a guaranteed hit most invest in, intellectual property has been proven to have a built-in audience. Netflix megahit Stranger Things has gained much of its popularity through recycling the tropes and style of hits of the 80s, while Top Gun: Maverick brings 80s flair to the biggest cinematic hit of the year. Today, Professor Lorna Piatti-Farnell, who runs the Popular Culture Research Centre at the Auckland University of Technology, spoke to Damien about why we're so drawn to the past in our culture. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand is being hit by a winter wave of Covid-19. Case numbers are rising rapidly and understaffed hospitals are coming under increased strain. Modellers are now predicting that things could become worse as we move further into winter and face the cumulative impact of Covid, flu and other illnesses. Some experts are starting to question whether it might be time to shift back to the red level, yet it appears the Government is not ready to make that call. NZ Herald senior news director Lynley Ward joins Damien for an update on what's happening with Covid in New Zealand - and what's next for our coronavirus strategy. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green politician Chlöe Swarbrick is set to take on the booze business. Her alcohol reduction bill, recently drawn from the biscuit tin, proposes a range of changes to the sale and advertising of alcohol. Many councils have already thrown their support behind the suggested changes, but the politician faces a fight against some of the wealthiest lobbies in the country. So, what does the bill actually aim to do? And what are the chances of it winning enough support to pass into law? Today, Damien is joined by Swarbrick for a discussion on why New Zealand’s alcohol laws need to change, why she's keen to take on alcohol lobby groups, and why she isn't here to taking away people's drinks. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced a major new trade deal with the European Union. The promise is that it would help grow exports to the EU by $1.8 billion a year by 2035 - it's pleased parts of the business sector, but some in the farming community don’t feel this deal does enough to support their sector. So who are the big winners and losers in this deal? And will New Zealanders even notice any of the changes as they take effect? Today, NZ Herald business editor at large and Money Talks host Liam Dann joins Damien for a discussion about what this deal means for the country and if it's a sign we need to diversify our exports. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent episode of the ever-popular Country Calendar has divided audiences in the rural community. The unconventional methods of businesspeople Geoff and Justine Ross were not appreciated by some online, who lashed out calling it “woke and PC BS”. The backlash was saved for social media for now, but as more urbanites emigrate to the regions, does this case highlight the growing tensions between rural and urban New Zealand? Today NZX Head of Insight and rural commentator expert Julia Jones joins Damien to look at how a TV show sparked such a strong emotional response. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today marks the beginning of Aotearoa’s newest ministry. The newly established Ministry for Disabled People is meant to act as a powerful voice for the needs of those living with disability. A Cabinet paper described the previous system as one that is "fragmented, slow, hard to measure, and hasn't led to the credible policy”. So how will the new ministry deal with New Zealand’s long and ongoing history of ignoring and mistreating those who happen to have a disability? Later in this episode I’ll speak to academic, lawyer and disability rights activist Dr Huhana Hickey. Today, Damien talks firstly to former Minister for Disability Issues Carmel Sepuloni, and then with academic, lawyer and disability rights activist Dr Huhana Hickey, about what the new Ministry hopes to achieve. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s sweeping plan to abolish all 20 District Health Boards comes into effect this week. The move will replace the DHBS with a single health organisation, Health NZ, designed to manage the healthcare of New Zealanders around the country. What will this mean for patients, doctors and nurses? And will this move succeed in repairing New Zealand’s fragmented healthcare system? Today, Dr Samantha Murton, President of The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, joins Damien to explain this huge shake-up to our healthcare system. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy Fox Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, the US Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v Wade decision - effectively striking down the nearly 50-year enshrined right of women to access abortion treatments. The move sent shockwaves around the world, with world leaders quick to condemn the US Supreme Court’s decision to roll back abortion laws. Where does this leave the United States as a moral authority in the Western world? And will these culture wars have any impact on New Zealand politics? In this bonus episode of The Front Page, Damien is joined first by Otago University foreign policy expert Dr Robert Patman to discuss why America is fixated on certain issues and how it is harming the country's reputation, and then talks with Family Planning chief executive Jackie Edmond for the local perspective on this shocking move. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two random knife attacks in a few days have rattled the nation. The motivations behind the incidents are still unclear, but they’ve drawn attention to the rising issue of violence on our streets. Are these one-off incidents or examples of a growing problem - and what are the police doing to keep New Zealanders safe? Today, NZ Herald senior reporter Kurt Bayer joins Damien for a discussion about growing concern of street violence. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy Fox Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealanders were warned last week that we were at risk of nationwide energy blackout. High demand combined with a winter snap meant that we weren’t generating enough power to keep up. So why does this keep happening? And could things become worse as more electric cars are plugged into the grid? Today, Electric Kiwi CEO Luke Blincoe joins Damien to discuss what it will take to make New Zealand’s energy supply more secure. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand should be in a golden era for public transport. A growing awareness of climate change, combined with congestion frustrations, should make a pivot to trains and buses a no-brainer. But our major networks in Auckland and Wellington are plagued by negative perceptions around frequency, delays and journey times - views that even the most loyal public transport would struggle to argue against some days. There are promises of major developments coming down the pipeline - but how long will they take, and is the Government invested enough to make them happen? Today, NZ Herald senior journalist Georgina Campbell joins Damien for a discussion on the current state of New Zealand’s public transport. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matariki, Aotearoa’s new public holiday, commemorates the beginning of the new year in the Māori lunar calendar. But this day is about more than celestial changes in the night sky. It carries great cultural significance and a message that should resonate across New Zealand. Today, Flava Breakfast co-host and host of the Up to Speed podcast, Stacey Morrison, joins Damien for a discussion about this important day and why we should think carefully about how we choose to celebrate this important day. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another horrific crash this week has served as a reminder of the dire state of New Zealand’s road toll. Hundreds of people are dying on our roads every year, and the stats show that the millions being thrown at the problem isn't making a sizeable difference. So why does our road toll remain so high compared to other countries, and are there any simple fixes to what seems to be a systemic issue? Today, road safety expert Dr Fergus Tate joins Damien to discuss what we can and can’t do about the road toll. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy Fox and Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s nurses are not happy. They feel overworked, underpaid and frustrated by the lack of support from decision makers. Now, with large offers coming out of Australia, many are considering moving abroad for the promise of more money and a better quality of life. So is New Zealand doing enough to hold onto this essential workforce? Or are we sleepwalking our way into a national health crisis? Today, NZ Herald health reporter Emma Russell joins Damien for a discussion about the growing strain on New Zealand’s nurses. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy Fox and Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June is known around the world as Pride Month. A moment of celebration for the LGBT+ community. However, a growing backlash towards queer people in recent months has dampened the excitement. Events in Tauranga and Greymouth have shocked the local community, while the US is being flooded with laws targeting gay and transgender people. So what has sparked this backlash, and what needs to be done to protect the rainbow community from violence? Today, Max Tweedie, director of Auckland Pride, joins Damien to discuss recent events and what needs to be done differently. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The proposal of Fair Pay Agreements in New Zealand has become a political lightning rod. Opponents are taking out expensive billboards and ads to oppose the Bill, while supporters are accusing some members of the business community of spreading lies and misinformation. So where does the truth lie: are Fair Pay Agreements really the great business bogeyman, or will they help the workers earning the least in society? Today, NZ Herald Wellington Business Editor Jenee Tibshraeny joins Damien to separate fact from fiction in this contentious issue.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend, Eden Park will host the Blues and the Crusaders for an epic showdown to mark the end of the Super Rugby Pacific tournament.   It not only marks the end of a major sporting event. This clash of the long-time rivals will also be a major opportunity to welcome back live events.   Thousands are expected to flock to Eden Park for the event, and thousands more will hit the city’s pubs and bars.   So is this the first major test for our living with Covid strategy – or are we walking straight into a super-spreader event?      Today, NZ Herald senior writer and diehard Blues fan Simon Wilson joins Damien for a discussion about what this match means for a country emerging from the pandemic. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s longest waterway has become a meandering river of filth. The Waikato River is regularly unswimmable and high levels of pollutants have left community members deeply concerned about how much worse it could become. There is, however, a plan to clean this mess. The only catch is that it’s going to take more than seven decades. Today, RNZ data journalist Farah Hancock joins Damien to discuss her investigation into what’s gone wrong with this important waterway - and why it has such a long road to recovery.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this week unveiled her latest cabinet reshuffle.  The changes involving the top Ministers in Government were described as “minor”, but three high-ranking politicians are moving on, resulting in a new Speaker of the House and new Ministers for some of the Government's biggest portfolios.  What led to these changes, are these key portfolios now in the right hands, and what do these departures say about Labour's talent pool?   Today, NZ Herald political reporter John Weekes joins Damien for a discussion about the political winners and losers in these changes.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The balance between work and home life has become more muddied. Technology now means we are required to always be on, stretching the workday even further.  But there’s a philosophy emerging around the world. One that suggests working four days a week could improve our productivity and wellbeing.    In 2018, Perpetual Guardian founder Andrew Barnes generated global headlines when he decided to run a real-time experiment on 200 staff members to see if the four-day week could be put into action. He hasn’t looked back since.   Today, Barnes joins Damien to discuss a massive global trial of the four-day week, which could provide the stepping stones for it to become a permanent reality for more people. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland's city centre is going through a rough period. Construction, crime and social issues have combined to create an undesirable experience that both businesses and shoppers prefer to avoid.  So how did the CBD get to this point? And is there any way we can salvage it and create something we to be proud of? Today, NZ Herald writer Adam Pearse joins Damien for a discussion about the mess in Auckland’s central city. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Revelations this week have placed the spotlight on the Ministry of Health’s pandemic numbers.  It turns out that the percentage of people vaccinated in New Zealand is lower than previously thought – and that some of the most glaring errors impacted vulnerable members of the community.  So how did we get the numbers so wrong? And how damaging is this for the public's trust in the Ministry? Today, NZ Herald senior writer David Fisher joins Damien to discuss the allegations that the Ministry of Health has been cooking the books. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a tit-for-tat gang war unfolds on New Zealand's streets, the National Party has called for New Zealand to implement Australian policing strategies that have had a big impact on gang violence across the ditch.  This would mean drastic changes in the law as well as limiting what patched gang members can and can’t do in public.   But can Australian policies work within New Zealand's culture? And will it do anything to correct the problems we're currently seeing on the streets of Auckland? Today, Newstalk ZB senior reporter and news director Chelsea Daniels joins Damien for a discussion on how New Zealand can get the gang problem under control. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recent weeks, numerous construction companies and developers have folded amid the pressures plaguing the building industry.   Bay of Plenty’s Oceanside Homes, two South Auckland developers and Wellington’s Armstrong Downes Commercial have all gone down. Why are businesses in the booming construction industry struggling to make ends meet? And is the dominance of a few large companies bringing down smaller players? Today, NZ Herald property editor Anne Gibson joins Damien for a look inside the storm brewing in the construction industry. 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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been welcomed with open arms during her trip to the United States, appearing on late night TV, speaking at Harvard University, and sitting down with politicians from both sides of the aisle, including President Joe Biden.   Her rapturous reception in the US comes as Ardern’s popularity in New Zealand wanes, with recent polls putting Labour and National neck and neck, in spite of the successes that have made our PM so popular overseas.  Is this trip going to help reverse those dipping poll numbers, or has it highlighted areas where Ardern’s international reputation falls short of her local achievements?      Today, NZ Herald political editor Claire Trevett joins Damien from Washington DC for an inside look at Jacinda Ardern’s return to the US.   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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Commonwealth this weekend celebrates the 70th Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. It's a milestone that's never been reached by a British monarch before, but the joyous event is being overshadowed by a number of stories currently affecting the Royal family.  The Queen’s health is ailing, scandal continues to swirl around Prince Andrew, more commonwealth nations are becoming republics. and the ongoing saga of Harry and Meghan is still attracting headlines.   So what does all this mean for the future of an institution that has long been at the centre of British life?  Today, Newshub Europe correspondent Lisette Reymer joins Damien from London to discuss the Jubilee and what comes next for the House of Windsor.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta has previously compared New Zealand and China’s relationship to the respect a taniwha would show a dragon.  That respect has not prevented China continuing to try and firm up its presence in the Pacific – after success in signing a sweeping deal with the Solomon Islands, the rest of the region is now in their sights.  Is this a policy failure for the New Zealand and Australian governments – or is China simply offering a deal too good to resist?   Today, Newstalk ZB chief political reporter Jason Walls joins Damien from Washington DC to discuss what, if anything, New Zealand can do about the dragon at our doorstep.   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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is taking aim at the supermarket duopoly with a range of measures designed to increase competition in the sector.   This comes after a Commerce Commission market study showing that supermarket giants Woolworths and Foodstuffs were making hundreds of millions of dollars in excess profits.  So will the Government’s measures help make grocery shopping more affordable, and what do the current supermarket giants have to say about this?  Today, NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny joins Damien to dig through the details of the big supermarket changes.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re at the end of New Zealand Music Month. The annual celebration of local music has gone by with almost no restrictions, the first time in two years that the industry has been able to enjoy some stability.   Yet even as we learn to live with Covid, every time concerts are planned, album launches are scheduled, or a festival date is announced – there is still uncertainty for punters and performers alike about how it’ll all play out.   The path forwards appears to be restriction-free, but how quickly can New Zealand music bounce back?   Today, NZ Herald Culture Editor Karl Puschmann joins Damien to discuss what the future holds for the local music industry.   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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The All Blacks are being courted by the commercial muscle of a large private equity firm, Silver Lake, which wants to acquire a stake in the world’s most famous rugby team.   The promise here is that it will bring more money into the game, allowing for development from ground up. But will this really happen, Or will the All Blacks end up as little more than a commercial entity that’s turned its back on local fans?   Today, NZ Herald sports journalist Gregor Paul joins Damien to dig into the details of this controversial move.   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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the country has celebrated 30 years of its favourite soap opera, Shortland Street. The doctors and nurses of Ferndale have survived serial killers, viral outbreaks and volcanoes to make it this far – but can it survive one of the most tumultuous periods in the history of New Zealand television?   With TVNZ preparing their merger with RNZ, and too many streaming services to keep up with, there have never been so many opportunities – and threats – to New Zealand television.  Today, media commentator and CEO and publisher of The Spinoff Duncan Grieve joins Damien to look at a fascinating time for New Zealand TV.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A series of news stories and concerns over rising tremors at Mt Ruapehu have again shed light on the risk posed by the Alpine Fault.  Experts are growing increasingly concerned that a devastating earthquake could be imminent, causing widespread chaos across the South Island and costing the economy billions of dollars.   So how real is this threat, and are we prepared for its impact? Today, Otago University Research Associate Professor Dr Caroline Orchiston joins Damien to talk about why we should be keeping a close eye on the Alpine fault in the coming years.    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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inheritance law is set for a major revamp off the back of a series of recommendations by the Law Commission.   This could leave relatives expecting to inherit family wealth with a bitter taste.  To find out who will be entitled to what under the new law, Damien speaks to New Zealand Herald senior journalist Jane Phare.  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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tauranga is on the hunt for a new member of Parliament. Nominations closed last week in the contest to replace the retired Simon Bridges.  This election comes at a tense time for New Zealand’s fifth-largest city. There are growing concerns around violence and racism, while a Crown Commission has taken over all governance responsibilities from the city’s council.  So what does all this dysfunction mean for a new member of parliament? And what will it take to fix the problems?   Today, Bay of Plenty Times journalist Kiri Gillespie joins Damien to look at the tough road ahead for local leadership in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities.   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 VenutoProducer/Editor: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our closest neighbour has a new Prime Minister. Labor leader Anthony Albanese is set to be the 31st Prime Minister of Australia, defeating Liberal Party leader Scott Morrison and ending a decade of conservative rule.  While questions remain over the makeup of Parliament and his government, Albanese will likely need to work alongside a mob of climate-focused MPs that have shaken up the Australian political landscape.   Today, Australian Associated Press NZ correspondent Ben McKay joins guest host Chelsea Daniels to discuss what went down, what happens next, and what it could mean for New Zealand.   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: Chelsea DanielsProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Thursday, Finance Minister Grant Robertson unveiled his fifth budget – the country’s biggest ever with a six billion dollar price tag.   And While Budget Day lets the party in power set out their agenda for the next year – and gives the Opposition a chance to cry foul about how they’re getting it wrong – beneath all the pantomime and catchphrases is a detailed examination of the biggest issues in the country right now.  So where is all that money going, how will it affect everyday Kiwis, and what does this say about Labour’s future plans? Today, New Zealand Herald Business editor-at-large Liam Dann joined Damian for all the expert analysis you’ll need.   Host: Damien Venuto Producer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could you imagine the risk of Covid-19 regional lockdowns and work from home orders still coming into effect in 2027?  That’s one scenario envisioned by the International Science Council in their major new report examining how endemic the pandemic could become.   And while not all the options are as pessimistic – the report does have worrying warnings.  Today, New Zealand Herald Science Reporter Jamie Morton joins guest host Chelsea Daniels to discuss how the coronavirus could shape the rest of the decade. 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: Chelsea DanielsProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has this week unveiled its Emissions Reduction Plan. Billions of dollars have been earmarked as part of an effort to reduce global warming and avoid the catastrophic impacts of climate change.  Who are the winners and losers from this plan, and is Aotearoa on track for the future that this plan lays out?  Today, NZ Herald Senior Political Reporter and On The Tiles podcast host Thomas Coughlan joins guest host Chelsea Daniels to look closer at this plan for our future.  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: Chelsea DanielsProducer/Editor: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A NZ journalist believes the Ukrainian people will never accept a settlement that sees territory handed over to Russia, as a result of the atrocities the invading forces have inflicted on the people. Tom Mutch has been in Ukraine since before Russia invaded at the end of February, and is currently reporting out of Kramatorsk, in the Donetsk Oblast near where much of the fighting is happening on the Ukraine-Russia border. Tom spoke to guest host Chelsea Daniels about this ongoing conflict. 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: Chelsea DanielsProducer/Editors: Shaun D Wilson and Paddy FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Government prepares to unveil the 2022 budget, several stories in recent weeks have drawn attention to several controversial spending decisions - from $21 million on consultants and contractors as part of its Three Waters plan, to $10,000 on two large propss as part of its Road to Zero campaign. So is this spending justified, or is it emblematic of a Government that’s a bit too loose with the purse strings? Today, Newstalk ZB political reporter Aaron Dahmen joins Damien to make sense of the Government’s spending habits. 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 / Producer: Damien Venuto Producer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In June 1993, Peter Ellis was convicted of 16 charges involving the sexual abuse of seven children.  But, despite his death in 2019, the case has not settled, as his supporters and legal team have successfully applied to hear the case again.  Now, one of the survivors has spoken out for the first time, and is sharing her version of what happened to her all those years ago.    Today, freelance journalist Jo Malcolm joins Damien to discuss the significance of this victim breaking her silence three decades later.     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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills  Sexual harm - Where to get help If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334• Email [email protected]• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nzAlternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in January 2012, one of the most interesting legal cases in New Zealand’s history began when police raided a Coatesville mansion belonging to a German migrant by the name of Kim Dotcom.   A decade later, the Dotcom saga and charges related to his file hosting service MegaUpload are still going through courts, with news this week that two of his co-accused have cut a deal. Why is this case dragging on, and how much longer can it carry on for? Today, NZ Herald investigative reporter David Fisher joins Damien for an in-depth look at one of Aotearoa's most publicised cases.  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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nation’s health system is failing women, often making them feel like their illness is a figment of their imagination.  Women are sometimes suffering for years longer than they should be, and this oversight ends up costing the healthcare system millions of extra dollars.      So how did we get to this point? And more importantly, how do we improve women’s healthcare?  Today, NZ Herald health reporter Emma Russell joins Damien to talk about how women are suffering within a broken system.   You can read the full In Her Head series here 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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Westpac Bank last week forecast that New Zealand house prices would drop by 15 per cent over the next two years – striking the gloomiest note we’ve heard so far from any of New Zealand’s banks. This comes after years of sharp increases, but there’s still some doubt as to whether this will be enough to help those desperate to get onto the property ladder.   So just how broken is New Zealand’s housing market? And what does this mean for first-home buyers who have long been at the bottom of the food chain?    Today, independent economist and regular OneRoof contributor Tony Alexander joins Damien to discuss recent house price drops and what the predictions means for the market.  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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An Auckland woman had Covid-19 for more than a month. Her harrowing story is one that runs the full gamut of symptoms, and possibly two variants.  What does a case like this mean for New Zealand as our immunity wanes in the coming winter months?     Today, NZ Herald reporter Kirsty Wynn joins Damien to discuss what we can learn from a fully vaccinated woman’s struggle against this deadly virus.  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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D WilsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National Party MP Simon Bridges delivered his valedictory speech this week, drawing the curtain on a colourful political career that spanned 14 years, and more than a few scandals. So what legacy does the former Opposition leader leave? And what does this mean for a National Party that has long struggled with diversity?    Today, NZ Herald senior political reporter Thomas Coughlan joins Damien to talk about the tenure of this charming but flawed politician.  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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D WilsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.