The Front Page

It has been nearly six months since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. Yet for the millions of Ukrainians affected by the conflict, these past few months have felt like a lifetime. Recently, NZ Herald investigative reporter Nicholas Jones spent a week in Ukraine, in the cities of Kyiv and Irpin. There, he spoke to one Kiwi woman who gave everything up to bring her skills to Ukraine, as well as many Ukrainians trying their best to survive. Today, Damien talks to Nicholas about his trip and what he saw on the ground in Ukraine. 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.

In 2022, wildfires have scorched more than 600,000 hectares of Europe. This ranks as the second-highest total for any year, and comes amid a heatwave that has killed more than 2000 people in Spain and Portugal alone. Climate scientists have warned that these wild weather events are only going to become more regular, and Aotearoa will not be spared. So are we ready for the impact of long, dry summers? And is our fire service well enough equipped to battle raging wildfires? Today, Damien speaks to NZ Herald planning director Vera Alves about what it's like on the ground in Portugal, and Joe Stanley, the vice president of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, joins later to discuss New Zealand's preparedness. 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.

Ukraine. Climate change. The Economy. Local and national politics.Rising violence. And, of course, Covid-19. The Front Page has covered a lot of topics since launching in March. But with the constant churn of the daily news cycle, so many of these stories can come and go without the opportunity to reflect on their impact, and analyse how things unfolded. For this, our 100th episode of The Front Page, Damien is joined by NZ Herald senior writer Simon Wilson, and Newstalk ZB Drive host Heather du Plessis-Allan, to look back on some of the biggest stories from the year so far – and see how things have changed. 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.

The political fight for Auckland mayor is balanced on a knife edge and things are starting to get dirty. Polls separate four candidates by only a few percentage points – and mud-slinging has ensued. So do attack-based political stunts even work? And should we be worried about low participation levels when so much is at stake? Today, strategic marketer and Ben Goodale joins Damien for a discussion on why the battle for Auckland mayor is getting so dirty. 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 FoxExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the next three months, more than two million New Zealanders are set to receive a $350 payment from the Government. That money is intended to help alleviate the cost of living crisis, and comes with no strings attached. Most people don’t have to do anything to get it. It could have been a surefire political win, but now Labour has had to explain why New Zealanders and migrants who have left the country are somehow receiving this payment as well. So how did this happen, and was a free handout even the right way to tackle the cost of living crisis in the first place? Today, NZ Herald Wellington Business Editor Jenee Tibshraeny joins Damien to explain how giving away cash backfired on the Government. 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.

Imagine waking up one morning and realising the door to almost every public service was shut to you. No matter how hard you tried, you simply couldn’t get in. That’s the experience for many New Zealanders who have been left behind as the world has moved online. So how many are being digitally excluded, and how damaging is this in a society so singularly focused on moving everything online? Today, Sharren Wilson, who has struggled to be helped by WINZ, and Sacha Green, national advisor to the Citizens Advice Bureau, join Damien to discuss what can be done to avoid leaving people behind. 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.

There’s a growing trend of anti-social behaviour across Aotearoa that’s affecting people of all walks of life. Recently, we’ve seen shocking headlines of random bouts of violence and racism, including an attack on a police officer and a racially motivated assault at a supermarket. Damien asks organisational psychologist and chair of the Institute of Organisational Psychology John Eatwell about what’s driving this uptick in bad behaviour, and what can we do to nudge society back in the right direction? 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.

A new threat has got New Zealand’s agricultural community on edge. Foot and mouth disease, which devastated farming communities in England 21 years ago, has been detected in Indonesia, and has already sparked a biosecurity response to try and prevent it taking hold here. That’s because if the disease takes hold here, it could cost us one hundred thousand jobs and wipe 16 billion dollars from our GDP. Today, Vice President of Federated Farmers and Golden Bay dairy farmer Wayne Langford joins Damien to discuss why foot and mouth disease is so concerning, and how we can keep it out. 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.

The isolated religious community of Gloriavale has gripped the nation for years. The church’s ongoing attempts to project an image of wholesome Christianity have been tarnished many times - from revelations about the founder Neville Cooper, who dubbed himself Hopeful Christian, to more recent stories due to stories of workplace exploitation, and physical and sexual abuse of minors. A new documentary, Gloriavale, premiering at the New Zealand International Film Festival is the latest to shine a light on what really goes on in the reclusive community. Today, Fergus Grady, the co-director of Gloriavale, and Liz Gregory from the Gloriavale Leavers Trust, join Damien to discuss why, despite all the scrutiny, this troubled community still gets to play by its own rules. 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.

Monkeypox cases are surging around the world. The World Health Organisation has now declared the spread a global emergency and countries are scrambling with how to contain the virus. So what are the warning signs, what should we be doing to stop the spread, and what does this mean for gay, bisexual and queer men, who are currently the most at risk. Today, University of Auckland associate professor Helen Petousis-Harris joins Damien to talk about the latest virus threat to hit 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 WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The future of Green Party co-leader James Shaw is on the line. Party delegates have voted to reopen nominations for his position, opening the door for a potential challenge that could oust the Climate Change Minister from his leadership role. Even if such a move fails, this unfolding crisis exposes some of the tensions within the Green Party, just over a year out from the next General Election. What’s behind this move to try and oust Shaw, and what does it mean for the Greens and their coalition partner, Labour? Today, NZ Herald senior political correspondent and host of On the Tiles, Thomas Coughlan, joins Damien to unpack an unprecedented Green coup. Host: Damien VenutoEditor: Paddy FoxProducer: Shaun D WilsonExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand's net migration has been negative since March 2021. In the year to April, 8500 more people left than arrived, heaping pressure on businesses already battling with a major labour shortage. Hospitals, schools, restaurants, hotels, banks and tech companies have all been calling on the Government to relax the immigration settings. But will the Government listen? And how bad do things have to become for changes to occur? Today, Newstalk ZB Political Editor Jason Walls joins Damien for a discussion about loosening the restrictions around fortress 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: Damien VenutoProducer: Shaun D WilsonEditor: Paddy FoxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When euthanasia legislation was passed, critics worried that it could result in a slippery slope of people choosing die. But report suggests that this hasn’t been the case at all – and that New Zealand’s laws might, in fact, be too restrictive. So is New Zealand’s euthanasia law working as it was intended? Or do we need to broaden it further to give more people access to the procedure? To help answer these complex questions, Damien is joined by NZ Herald social issues reporter Isaac Davison. 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: Shaun D WilsonEditor: Paddy FoxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emergency department wait times are the longest they’ve been in a decade. Doctors and nurses are battling against a surge in Covid-19 infections and winter illnesses in an attempt to keep up with demand. There are concerns that people could die while they wait to receive treatment. So why is the Government refusing to call this a health crisis? And what can be done to ensure that our doctors and nurses aren’t burnt out on the job? Damien talks to Dr Samantha Murton, President of The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners, on the pressure weighing on our medical staff. 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: Shaun D WilsonEditor: Paddy FoxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation exceeded expectations to hit 7.3 per cent this week. The highest level seen since 1990. Everything from construction costs to petrol and food have increased in price, heaping pressure on the economy. New Zealand already ranked as one of the most expensive places to live, so what does this mean for Kiwi families struggling to make ends meet? Damien speaks to Westpac chief economist Satish Ranchhod about the forces driving New Zealand’s cost of living skywards. 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: Shaun D WilsonEditor: Paddy FoxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new survey has identified New Zealand as the second worst place to move to out of 52 nations. The only country which rated worse was Kuwait. Is Aotearoa so bad? Have we failed to look out for New New Zealanders who felt isolated while the borders were closed? Or does this point to deeper issues in our society at the moment? Massey University public relations expert Dr Chris Galloway shares his take how Aotearoa can improve its image. 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.

Groans were heard up and down the country on Saturday night when Ireland defeated the All Blacks 32 to 22, clinching a series victory for the visiting side. The dismal performance adds pressure on coach Ian Foster, who has long battled with the perception that he’s not the right man for the job. So is there an easy fix to the All Blacks' current slump, or does there need to be some big changes to get them back in winning form? And do All Blacks fans need to get used to the idea of losing the odd test match? Today, Newstalk ZB rugby commentator and co-host of the Rugby Direct podcast, Elliott Smith, joins Damien to discuss what’s gone wrong with the All Blacks. 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 Police Minister Chris Hipkins has admitted that tensions between gangs are at a high. As a result, the Government has proposed new legislation targeting gang violence. It comes after a recent rise of gang activity, which has coincided with a spate of ram raids and random attacks that have jolted the country. But are these new policies just tough talk from the Government looking to counter claims they are soft on crime? And should more effort be put into preventing the causes of crime? Today, NZ Herald investigative reporter Jared Savage joins Damien to look at what's happening with crime across the country. 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.

Sri Lanka has been in turmoil for months. Rising food costs, long blackouts, fuel and medicine shortages, and a fertiliser crisis have severely impacted everyday Sri Lankans’ lives. After four months of protests calling for his head, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa signalled his resignation – but not before protesters stormed his palace in the wake of the country being declared bankrupt. The impact of the months of turmoil has been felt throughout the globe, particularly for the 16,000 Sri Lankans that call Aotearoa home. Today, Kiwi-Sri Lankan Chamanthie Sinhalage-Fonseka joins Damien to share her perspective on the breakdown of Sri Lanka’s political and economic systems. 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.

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.