The Front Page

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.

Gangs. Patches. And 501 deportees. These issues cause fierce debate across Aotearoa. But how much of what we hear is true? And what should the police and Government be doing to address these problems?  To help answer these questions, Damien speaks to NZ Herald investigative reporter Jared Savage, who this week reported on Operation Cobalt, the Government’s latest move to take on gangs. 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.

Vaping brands arrived in New Zealand under the auspices of helping Kiwis quit smoking. They've also contributed to hooking an entirely new generation on nicotine, as vape stores have became ubiquitous. Although vaping is believed to be less damaging then smoking, it still has repercussions for health, some of which are still being discovered.  As New Zealand moves closer to its goals of a smokefree nation, are we trading the devil we know well for the demon we don't? NZ Herald health reporter Emma Russell joins Damien to talk about the flavoured plumes of vapour enveloping Aotearoa. 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.

Unemployment is forecast to hit another record low this week. It's good news for workers, but it’s also putting enormous strain on businesses desperate to fill gaps. So what happens when we don’t have enough people to build our houses? And what does this mean for the workers desperately trying to meet deadlines without enough helping hands? New Zealand Herald property editor Anne Gibson joins Damien to talk about the labour crunch affecting one of New Zealand’s biggest industries. 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.

Today is the first day in two years that tourists from around the world are allowed into Aotearoa. It's the  moment the beleaguered tourism industry had been hoping for, but the recovery of a $42 billion industry is going to take more than a few weeks.  New Zealand Herald travel editor Stephanie Holmes tells Damien that estimates suggest it will be three years before the industry is back to pre-pandemic levels.  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.

This week, lobby organisation Grounded Kiwis won their case against the Government and the MIQ lottery system. This came as vindication for many New Zealanders who were trapped abroad during the height of the Delta outbreak.  What does this decision mean for MIQ as a whole, and is there a chance of compensation for those affected? Today, Open Justice journalist Hazel Osbourne joins Damien to discuss the what went down in the courtroom this week, before the University of Auckland constitutional law expert Dr Jane Norton explains the ramifications - and why this could be good news for 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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There have been multiple, high-profile ram raids in New Zealand in the past two weeks. The perpetrators are becoming increasingly brazen, targeting major malls and department stores. What’s worse is that many of those committing these crimes tend to be mere teenagers. So why has this problem become so widespread? And how much worse could it become? Today, New Zealand Herald senior writer Jane Phare joins Damien to discuss what she has learnt about what's causing this crimewave.  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.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern this month left New Zealand for the first time in two years, for a business-focused trip to Singapore and Japan. This trip was meant to be an announcement to the world that Aotearoa is open and ready for business. But between the high-level talks and the dancing kiwifruit, what did the Prime Minister actually achieve?   Today, Newstalk ZB chief political reporter Jason Walls joins Damien to discuss what it was like on the Prime Minister’s trip to Singapore and Japan.   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.

In his quarterly forecast released last week, Westpac economist Satish Ranchhod said the quarterly inflation figure was set to be "another monster". The figure of 6.9 per cent that was eventually reported on Thursday is the highest the country has seen in 30 years. Today, the NZ Herald's business editor-at-large and Money Talks host Liam Dann joins Damien to discuss how this has become one of the biggest political talking points of the year, memories of the last time New Zealand faced inflation like this, and how we can recover from it.  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.

What makes a person happy? Is it wealth, success, fame, great Instagram pics? Or is it something simpler that even ordinary people could strive for? And is it even important int he grand scheme of things?   In-between hosting his show on Radio Hauraki, the New Zealand Herald’s inaugural Happiness editor Matt Heath has been on a personal quest to answer these questions.  Today, he joins Damien to discuss what he’s learnt and what this says about what motivates New Zealand society.       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.

Megachurches are big business in New Zealand, with these organisations raking in millions of dollars every year. Few have been as successful as the Arise Church, which now ranks as one of the biggest in the country. But this house of worship is starting to face a rebellion from within, as members of the congregation come forward with allegations of what really goes on behind the scenes.      Today, independent journalist David Farrier joins Damien to discuss the scandal rocking one of New Zealand’s biggest megachurches.    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.

This week, a worker died in a fall at the Ports of Auckland - the latest in a string of casualties since 2017. This comes after a review last year revealed major systemic problems in the health and safety processes at the port. How does this keep happening? And how much pressure is on the new chief executive to ensure it doesn’t continue?   Today, NZ Herald senior writer Tom Dillane joins Damien to discuss what it will take for workers to feel safe at New Zealand’s biggest port.  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.

In January 2019, three-year-old Lachie Jones disappeared on a summer evening. Several hours later, he was found floating face-up in an oxidation pond south of his home in Gore. Police ruled it was an accidental drowning, but the boy’s father has long disagreed - and now has a legal team on his side. So what really happened to Lachie Jones, and is there any chance his father's fight will lead to a new investigation? Today, NZ Herald reporter Kurt Bayer joins Damien to discuss what could have happened to Lachie Jones.  Read more about Lachie's case 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netsafe, the government-funded agency meant to protect New Zealanders from online harm is facing bullying allegations, a $100,000 fine for privacy breaches and departing CEO. So how is it that Netsafe became such a mess? And how do we go about fixing a system that’s meant to keep Kiwis safe?    Today, NZ Herald technology editor Chris Keall joins Damien to discuss what’s going on with Netsafe and what will come next. Read more on the saga 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Easter is upon New Zealand again - one of two religious events that are recognised as national public holidays. That’s despite census data showing a growing number of New Zealanders do not identify with any organised religion.   So should the whole country still be celebrating holidays associated with one religious group?   Today, Reverend Frank Ritchie, host of Newstalk ZB’s Sunday at Six and the lead chaplain at Media Chaplaincy, joins Damien to discuss religion's place in 2022 and if the whole country should still celebrate Easter. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight Labour MP Louisa Wall delivers her valedictory speech, bringing an end to a career in Parliament that lasted 14 years. However, she has not gone out quietly. Instead, she gave a series of interviews in which she claimed that Jacinda Ardern did not want her in cabinet or in her caucus. So why did she do this, what truth is there to her claims, and how does this reflect on Wall and the Prime Minister?  Today, NZ Herald political editor Claire Trevett joins Damien to discuss Wall's parting comments and if they will have a lasting impact. Read more on the saga 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For 20 years, author Ana Samways has been a collector of New Zealand cultural curiosities. She’s been trawling through the online world for photos, stories and other trinkets that capture the weirdness of life in New Zealand - producing over 5000 editions of the beloved New Zealand Herald column, Sideswipe.  Today, in honour of the anniversary celebrations, Samways joins Damien to share how it all started, how it’s endured and what might come next.   You can find Sideswipe online 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was announced this weekend that Australians will head to the polls on May 21st, where they will decide whether to continue with the Coalition and Scott Morrison or replace him with Labor and Anthony Albanese. So what are the key talking points as our closest neighbour prepares to head to the polls?   Today, New Zealand correspondent for the Australian Associated Press Ben McKay joins Damien to dig into the details, the drama and the scandal of Australian politics. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has just released a harrowing report that says our time is fast running out to avoid catastrophe. While the report focuses on what can be done to avoid catastrophe, a recent spotlight on some disappearing carparks shows some in New Zealand are unwilling to make those changes. Today, NZ Herald senior writer Simon Wilson joins Damien to look at what New Zealand can do to make a difference.  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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a surprising move this week, New Zealand’s Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield has resigned from his post, nearly 18 months before his term ended. The dust had barely settled when the Herald revealed that two other top public health officials following him out the door.  Today, NZ Herald senior writer Derek Cheng, who broke the news of the public health departues, joins Damien to discuss the shock shake-up at the Ministry of Health, and what light history will cast on Bloomfield’s tenure. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, a new movie in the Harry Potter franchise hit local cinemas. It’s not too long ago that the release of Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore would have excited fans young and old alike – but the controversies of franchise creator J K Rowling have dampened the mood for a return to Hogwarts.  It comes as Disney finds itself upsetting both sides of the political aisle after becoming a key figure in the debate over Florida's so-called ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill.  Today, New Zealand Herald Culture Editor Karl Puschmann joins Damien to discuss how Hollywood is navigating its part in America's culture wars.  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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man charged with threatening to kill Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appeared in court this week. It’s the latest example of online threats stepping dangerously close to crossing over into real-world violence. So how seriously should we take these online threats? And what can we do to help those being drawn in by dangerous ideology? Today, NZ Herald senior writer David Fisher joins Damien to discuss the challenges facing authorities in tackling this problem.  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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Women’s Cricket World Cup concluded over the weekend with old rivals Australia and England battling it out for glory. Sadly, New Zealand could only watch on as the formidable Australians asserted their dominance and went on to claim the trophy yet again.     Today, Newstalk ZB sports journalist Kate Wells joins Damien to recap the World Cup and what comes next for the White Ferns after a disappointing tournament. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re feeling a bit out of rhythm this morning, that’s not entirely surprising. The country’s clocks changed by an hour over the weekend, throwing schedules out the window with the end of daylight saving time. But with a growing movement overseas to end the practice of changing the clocks, could New Zealand follow suit?  Today, New Zealand Herald columnist and psychotherapist Kyle MacDonald joins Damien to discuss the best ways to get through the change in schedules, and Newstalk ZB chief political reporter Jason Walls talks through the likelihood of the Government changing the 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 / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D. Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been confirmed the next America’s Cup will not be held in New Zealand. After a prolonged saga, it’s been confirmed that the next event will be held in the Spanish city of Barcelona. So how did it come to this? And what does this mean for sailing fans who wanted to see the defence in local waters?     Today, Newstalk ZB Sport director Matt Brown joins Damien to discuss whether Team New Zealand has back-stabbed New Zealanders.  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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From April 4th, vaccine pass and mandate requirements will be removed and become optional for businesses to implement. In addition to learning to live with Covid, New Zealanders will have to also learn to live with each other as the anti-vaxxers and vaxxers, mask wearers and anti-maskers start to mix in the same spaces. What impact will this have on a country that’s just getting used to Covid in the community? And does easing restrictions ease our fear of the virus? Today, New Zealand Herald senior writer Simon Wilson joins Damien to discuss the tensions that will emerge as the country moves into a new phase.  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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Auckland mayoralty - sometimes considered the second most important job in New Zealand politics - is up for grabs this year. And while you'd think that ambitious politicians would be clambering over each other for a shot at the role, the actual race is attracting a few lesser-known faces. Today, New Zealand Herald reporter Tom Dillane joins Damien to discuss who the major candidates are, and why they have some in local government concerned. 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. Content from the New York Times can be read at nzherald.co.nz/Premium Host / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D. Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will Smith ripped the gaze of the world away from Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine yesterday when he walked onto the stage and slapped comedian Chris Rock. But what comes next? And will he face any punishment? For this bonus episode, NZ Herald entertainment and lifestyle editor Jenni Mortimer joins Damien to break down what happened and what's next. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pasifika communities make up more than 8 per cent of the New Zealand population, but you wouldn’t know that from looking at most mainstream media. To fill this gaping hole, the New Zealand Herald has just launched a new section, Talanoa, dedicated  to these under-represented communities.    Today, NZ Herald Pasifika editor Vaimoana Tapaleao joins Damien to discuss what it will take to shine a light on the stories that matter to Pasifika people. You can read stories from Talanoa 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 94th Academy Awards will take place this afternoon, and New Zealand film fans are hoping Jane Campion will emerge with a bit of Oscar gold. But will Power of the Dog take Best Picture after a last-minute controversy - and what of the upset surrounding the ceremony itself?  Today, New York Times awards correspondent and author Kyle Buchanan joins Damien to discuss a turbulent year for Hollywood's biggest awards show.  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. Content from the New York Times can be read at nzherald.co.nz/Premium Host / Producer: Damien VenutoProducer / Editor: Shaun D. Wilson Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Efforts to bail out the economy don’t come cheap. We’ve recently seen the Government forgo hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes to keep this price of petrol down amid the war in Ukraine – this comes after billions have already been spent keeping us afloat during Covid. So how much longer can this level of spend continue? Today, NZ Herald Business Editor at Large and Money Talks host joins Damien to discuss the tightrope the government is walking as it tries to control inflation while also ensuring the nation doesn’t slip into a recession. 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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the issues with water management in New Zealand were laid bare for all to see. Right after it was revealed that Wellington hasn’t had fluoride in its water for months, both Auckland and the capital saw flooding after heavy rain overwhelmed stormwater systems.  Today, NZ Herald senior journalist Georgina Campbell joins Damien to discuss what’s going on with New Zealand’s water and how the Government plans to fix it.   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 SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.