The Front Page

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has kicked off the political year with the first major reshuffle of his Cabinet. Dr Shane Reti has lost Health to Simeon Brown and has been bumped down Cabinet rankings, while Melissa Lee has been stripped of all portfolios, in favour of first-term MP James Meager. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by NZ Herald political editor Claire Trevett to discuss the big winners and losers. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Sound Engineer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States. After four years out of office after losing in 2020, Trump is set to return to the White House with a vengeance – with his ‘Make America Great Again’ agenda front and centre. His administration has already raised eyebrows for some of his unusual Cabinet appointments, and Trump’s usual bluster has seen him make bold promises about what he’ll get done on day one – including being a “dictator” just for the day. So what are Trump’s plans for his second term in office – and why are so many tech giants falling to his side this time around? Today on The Front Page, Washington-based New York Times reporter Kenneth Vogel is with us to discuss what to expect from the next four years of Trump? Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you ever get the feeling New Zealand just doesn’t know how to build houses properly? We had the leaky homes crisis – where timber-framed homes built from 1988 to 2004 were not fully weather-tight. And now, construction experts are warning that tens of thousands of Auckland families will suffer in overheating terraced houses unless designs change. Terraced houses are being built at pace in Auckland, with even more expected after the Government mooted 55,000 new ones to be fast-tracked through the consent process. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by New Zealand Green Building Council business development manager Matthew Cutler-Welsh to dig into what’s gone wrong with these new houses. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month, Justin Trudeau resigned as Canada’s Prime Minister, marking the end of his nine years in office. Trudeau was also one of the last leaders standing from an era of younger, left-leaning or liberal politicians, alongside the likes of Finland’s Sanna Marin and our own Jacinda Ardern, who garnered global attention for bringing a fresher approach to politics. That era seems well and truly over. Last year, more than 60 countries went to the polls, and many countries saw voters swing to the right, or voting against incumbent governments rather than necessarily voting in favour of their opposition. Peter Frankopan is an author and professor of global history at Oxford University, and joined us on The Front Page last year to preview ‘the year of elections’. He joins us today on The Front Page to discuss the shifting sands of global politics. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Growing concern about public safety has reignited the idea of arming our frontline police officers. The police union says 68% of officers support routine arming – and, our new police commissioner, Richard Chambers, is apparently ‘open’ to discussions around it – although he’s also said we’re ‘proud of having unarmed police’ and he’d like to keep it that way. This is all while, in the first hours of 2025, a car rammed into a police vehicle at a Nelson gathering – Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming later died in hospital, another officer was critically injured. This was followed by another attempted ramming a week later. So do we need to look at better protect those whose jobs are to protect us – or are there risks to giving more power to the police? Today on The Front Page, Auckland University criminology lecturer Dr. Emmy Rākete joins us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Destructive. Devastating. Apocalyptic. That’s how the wildfires burning across Los Angeles over the last week have been described. The blazes have largely brought the US’ second largest city to a standstill, destroying thousands of buildings have been destroyed, and forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate. It comes as officials declare 2024 the hottest year on record, with temperatures breaching the target of 1 point 5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels for the first time. Today on The Front Page, we’ll be discussing the ongoing climate risks that New Zealand faces with Victoria University of Wellington Professor Jonathan Boston. But first, we’re in Los Angeles with 9 News USA correspondent, Lauren Tomasi. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billionaire Elon Musk is not content with just having the ear of US President elect Donald Trump. Over the past few weeks, the world’s richest man has weighed in on European politics, first writing an op-ed backing Germany’s far-right AFD party. But the UK has become a particular obsession, with Musk frequently commenting on his social media platform, X, about child grooming and rape gangs, laying the blame squarely at the feet of the six-month old Labour Government. So why is the tech mogul so interested in politics overseas, and how are the US’ European allies meant to respond when Musk is firmly in Trump’s inner circle? Today on The Front Page, senior reporter for CNN Politics Stephen Collinson joins us from Washington DC to discuss the thinking behind Musk’s political commentary. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    The 2023 general election was a battle between the two Chrises – Labour's Chris Hipkins, and National’s Christopher Luxon.  It was a battle that Luxon ended up winning, thanks to the support of two coalition partners in Act and NZ First. But it’s a match-up that currently looks set to be repeated next year, with Hipkins sticking around as Labour’s leader – and showing no signs of stepping aside.  That’s likely because the polls between the coalition and Labour, the Greens and Te Pati Māori remain pretty evenly split.   At the end of 2024, we caught up with both leaders a week apart for a wrap of the year. New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    People respond to election losses in various ways, from protesting to legal action to considering moving country.   But, what about adopting a vow of celibacy through something called the “4B movement”?   That’s what some young women in the US promised on social media in protest of Donald Trump winning back the White House.    No dating. No sex, No childbirth. And no marriage.   In a world where the next US President was found liable for sexual abuse, online vitriol against women is skyrocketing,  and the term “your body, my choice” is trending online - how effective could this 4B movement be?    University of Otago PhD candidate Rachel Billington has researched how young people interact with each other online, and joined us in November on The Front Page to discuss this growing movement.    New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    Once it came into power, the coalition Government signalled “everything’s on the table” when it comes to a major shake-up of New Zealand’s gun laws.  The world praised us when we took swift action following the Christchurch terror attack – banning semi-automatic firearms and assault rifles.    But, now a coalition agreement between National and Act could see semi-automatics make a return to gun ranges. Various stages of reform are currently been worked through by politicians.   In the US, April 20 marked 25 years since the Columbine high school massacre – where two teenagers murdered 12 students and a teacher.    15-year-old Daniel Mauser was one of those killed in the school’s library.   Daniel’s father, Tom, has spent the last 25 years advocating for gun control in America – and he joined us on The Front Page to discuss why New Zealand shouldn’t be complacent when it comes to firearms.    New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    For over 50 years, the secretive Christian community of Gloriavale has fascinated New Zealanders.   While the community has long been discussed by former members who have left Gloriavale behind, in the last few years, multiple official investigations and Employment Court proceedings have shone more light on what's happening behind the scenes.  In March, a new TVNZ documentary, Escaping Utopia, premiered, looking back at the community’s chequered history and its recent problems.   We spoke with co-director Justin Pemberton – who explained his fresh look at historic concerns.    New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    It’s safe to say that in recent years, Boeing has gone through a patch of turbulence.   In 2024 alone, we saw a door plug blow off mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 in January – while closer to home, a LATAM Airlines flight from Sydney to Auckland plunged mid-air, injuring at least 50 passengers.  In October 2018, Lion Air Flight 610 crashed into the Java Sea in Indonesia with 189 people on board. It was a Boeing 737 MAX.     Barely five months later, an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing Max aircraft crashed, killing 157 people.   One of those people was Graziella de Luis y Ponce, a United Nations interpreter.    Her brother is Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics lecturer, Javier de Luis.   He served on the US Federal Aviation Administration’s panel that reviewed Boeing’s safety practice last year.    We spoke to Javier in March about what’s gone wrong, and what should change, at Boeing.   New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    Major earthquakes may not be a regular occurrence in New Zealand, but the threat of them is often in the back of our minds.   With a major faultline running through the middle of the country, you only have to look to the events in Christchurch and Kaikoura to know the risk they pose.   In May, new modelling was published that highlighted the impact a catastrophic quake could have on this country, including the threat of tsunamis, and how prepared we are for such an event.   We spoke with Doctors Bilrtl Fry and Matt Gerstenberger from GNS Science to dig into the latest research on our seismic threats.    New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is taking its summer break, we will be shining a spotlight on some of the biggest podcasts from the New Zealand Herald network over the last year.   In 2011, then Herald on Sunday journalist David Fisher reported on what the paper dubbed ‘the Facebook Predator’, an adult woman who had been caught catfishing dozens of teenage boys in the South Island.   She would be named as Natalia Burgess.  Fisher covered the Burgess case for months, before she eventually went to prison for two years as a result of her behaviour.  He thought that was the end of it – until two years ago, an email out of the blue revealed that Burgess returned to her catfishing once she was free from prison.  In the latest series of the Herald’s true crime series, Chasing Ghosts, Fisher went back to re-examine the case, see what he missed back in 2011 – and tried to get Burgess to front up again to what she had done.  You can listen to half of the first episode of Chasing Ghosts: The Puppeteer now, and find the full series on iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    The disappearances of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope on New Year’s Day 1998 remain one of New Zealand’s infamous cases.   Scott Watson has spent the last 25 years behind bars after being convicted of murdering them, despite no bodies ever being found.   In June, Watson headed back to the courtroom four years after his case was referred to the Court of Appeal – it's his last shot at clearing his name.   There’s still no word yet on the result of his latest appeal.   We spoke with NZ Herald senior journalist Carolyne Meng Yee and editorial leader Oskar Alley – who took us back to 1999 when they both covered Watson’s infamous first trial, and ran through the evidence making up this appeal with senior reporter David Fisher.   New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    Kiwis have departed New Zealand in record numbers this year.  News reports covering monthly migration data have repeatedly announced new records of net migration loss, with the latest stats from the year to September showing 79,700 migrant departures.   Just over half of those leaving the country moved to Australia, while the lure of the traditional UK OE is still taking people to London.  But is moving overseas going to make your life less expensive? In July, NZ Herald reporter Ben Leahy joined us after crunching the numbers to see if the grass is really greener on the side.   New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    On July 26th 1984, David Lange was sworn in as the 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand.   His ascension into the country’s top job came after Robert Muldoon’s infamous 'Schnapps Election' ended his nine years in power.   Best remembered for enshrining New Zealand’s nuclear free status, Lange also oversaw controversial economic policies that ultimately divided his caucus and saw his time on the ninth floor only last five years.   For the 40th anniversary of his reign, we spoke with Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper – one of the few journalists who was there at the time and still working today.  New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    June 20 this year marked 30 years since five members of the Bain family in Dunedin were found dead in their family home.   The one survivor, David, would be convicted of murdering his parents and three siblings.  He served 13 years in prison before the Privy Council quashed his convictions, and he was found not guilty on all charges at a retrial in 2009.    For the anniversary in June, we spoke to long-time Bain advocate Joe Karam for an exclusive chat reflecting on his three decades linked to the case, as well as exploring our obsession with the case with AUT University’s Professor of Pop Culture, Dr Lorna Piatti-Farnell.   New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is taking its summer break, we will be shining a spotlight on some of the biggest podcasts from the New Zealand Herald network over the last year.   In 2022, BusinessDesk journalist Murray Jones investigated the finances of the New Zealand branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – better known as the Mormons.  That investigation sparked a lot of feedback on social media, including a number of posts that suggested there was more to the Church that first thought.  That led to Heaven’s Helpline, a NZ Herald podcast that investigated the Church and how it has built a system that protects its wealth and reputation – and shields sexual predators from the law.    You can listen to half of the first episode of Heaven’s Helpline now, and find the full series on iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While The Front Page is on summer break, we’re taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast in 2024.    Travelling is often a stressful experience, particularly over the Christmas break and summer holidays when it seems we’re all rushing to get away.   Those trips aren’t made easy when violent turbulence or technical errors have an impact.  In 2024, stories of extreme turbulence popped up around the world, including one case in April when a man onboard an Air New Zealand flight from Bali broke his leg, while in May, a violent Singapore Airlines flight saw dozens hospitalised and one passenger die.    That’s on top of multiple stories locally of domestic and international flights impacted by landing and technical issues.   To get insight on this, in July, we spoke to the chief executive of Massey University’s School of Aviation, Ashok Podavul about whether we should be concerned – and stay tuned for advice on what you can do if things go wrong for you this summer from Consumer NZ’s Jessica Walker.   New episodes return January 13th.  Host: Chelsea Daniels Audio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard Martin Executive Producer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While we’re on our summer break, The Front Page is taking a look back at some of the biggest news stories and top-rated episodes from the podcast this year.   Losing a loved one is one of the worst things a family can go through.   But it can get a lot worse if people start fighting over the will before the body’s even cold.   In June, we spoke to NZ Herald senior journalist Jane Phare about the dos and don'ts when it comes to inheritance – including how you should go about getting your fair share, and what you can do to make sure your final wishes are clear.   New episodes return January 13th. Host: Chelsea DanielsAudio Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinExecutive Producer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The year in politics has been a bumpy road for many. The coalition Government dived in quickly to reverse previous Labour policy, and pushed numerous bills through Parliament to reach quarterly deadlines and targets – with a mixed response from voters around some policies. Labour meanwhile has spent much of the last year recovering from their election wipeout in 2023, leaving Te Pati Maori to lead the pushback against the Treaty Principles Bill. At a local level, huge rates increases were a burden for many councils, while Wellington Council had the unfortunate honour of having a Crown Observer appointed. Today on The Front Page, we’re revisiting some of our interviews with top politicians from central and local government as we look back on the year that was. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a huge year for sport here in New Zealand. In one weekend in October, Team New Zealand took to the water in Barcelona and took home the America’s Cup for the third time in a row, while the White Ferns won the ICC T20 Women’s World Cup final. There were major wins across the board for the Black Caps, the Silver Ferns, and our latest football team, Auckland FC. But in this major year, there was perhaps no bigger cause for celebration than the Paris Olympics, when Kiwi athletes bagged more gold medals at Paris 2024 than at any other Olympic Games in history. On this special sports-themed compilation episode of The Front Page, we're looking back at some of the best conversations we've had around the year in sport. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The economy has been in an uncertain place for quite some time, and 2024 was no different. Over the last year, we’ve seen some improvement. In October, the annual rate for inflation had fallen from 3.3 percent to 2.2 percent. The official cash rate ended the year on 4 point 25 percent. Elsewhere, the news hasn’t been so positive. The country’s gross domestic product contracted 0.2 percent in the June quarter, only just missing out on a technical recession. Job cuts across multiple sectors have seen Jobseeker benefit numbers surge to over 200,000. And Government books released this week show that it’s unlikely we’ll return to a surplus until 2029 – about a year later than originally anticipated in this year’s Budget. So what’s going on in our economy? And how soon until we start to see some change? On this compilation episode of The Front Page, we revisit some of the discussions we've had to do with economy and the business sector throughout 2024, including post-Budget analysis, closures in the retail and hospitality sector, and the big scandal around Du Val Group.  Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While 2024 has been a big year of news in New Zealand, there’s been plenty happening around the world over the last 12 months. From wars and conflicts to extreme-weather events -- new pandemic threats to cancer coming to Buckingham Palace -- we’ve seen it all over the last 12 months. Today on The Front Page, we’ll be revisiting the many conversations we’ve had about the biggest stories from around the world in 2024, including the impacts of Donald Trump's re-election on New Zealand, the ongoing impacts of the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, and some of the biggest deaths and crime events from Australia.  Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Law and order is always a hot topic of debate amongst politicians. The coalition government was elected in part on the back of years of ram raids and violent robberies post-Covid. The last 12 months has seen delivery on promises to bring back boot camps for young offenders, a crackdown on gangs, and the return of Three Strikes legislation.  Today on The Front Page, we’ll be revisiting the many conversations we’ve had about crime and the justice system in 2024, looking at how effective some of those policies are and what we could be doing better. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While 2024 may not have brought the shocks of cyclones, Prime Ministerial resignations or election campaigns, there’s a lot to digest from the last year.   The Government delivered tax relief, gang crackdowns and a Fast Track bill, while dealing with controversy over Māori relations, smoking laws and apartment entitlements. Te Pāti Māori led the fight back against the Treaty Principles Bill, while Labour rebuilt from its election loss, and the Greens contended with rogue MPs and personal tragedy. Inflation started to fall, but a tough economy saw thousands lose their jobs, including the end of iconic news brands. Māoridom farewelled a King and welcomed a new Queen, while the British Monarchy was dealt a double cancer blow. Globally, conflict continued across Ukraine and Gaza, while the ‘year of elections’ delivered a new PM for the UK, and an old President for the US. And fans around the world found time to hold space for Brat Summer, Wicked, the Menendez Brothers and the Eras tour. Today on The Front Page, for our final episode of 2024, we’re discussing all the highs and lows of the year with Coast host Lorna Riley, and NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A terrorism charge has been laid against a New Zealander who allegedly travelled overseas to join Islamic State a decade ago.  Mark John Taylor, also known as Mohammed Daniel, was charged under the Terrorism Suppression Act this morning.   Charging documents filed in the Wellington District Court state he’s being accused of participating in a group in Syria, namely the Islamic State and the Levant (ISIL) between 29 November 2014 and 24 December 2018.  It said he’s believed to have joined the groups “for the purpose of enhancing the ability of ISIL to carry out or participate in one or more terrorist acts intended to cause the death or injury to one or more persons, in one or more countries.   It said it was for the purpose of advancing an ideological, political or religious cause with the intention of inducing terror in a civilian population, knowing or being reckless whether ISIL is a designated terrorist identify.”  He faces a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.  For some more insight into this case, we’re joined now on The Front Page by Massey University Emeritus Professor Paul Spoonley.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christopher Luxon believes his so-called ‘coalition of chaos’ has defied the critics. The Prime Minister is spending the remainder of 2024 lauding his government’s achievements – inflation is under 3%, a 30% increase of cops on the beat, 26 new cancer treatments, tax relief just to name a few. But he’s ending the year facing criticism over his handling of the Treaty Principles Bill, and for his corporate way of talking – and poll results show a deadlock between the left and right coalitions. So, with a promise to get the country ‘back on track’ and a focus on rebuilding the economy – can Luxon turn around the public criticism? Today on The Front Page, the Prime Minister, joins us to discuss the year that’s been, his hopes for 2025 – and if the new year could see the government up the ante when it comes to welcoming foreign investment. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Communities around the country are waiting with bated breath for news about major infrastructure projects – ones that are set to cost a lot of money. The government’s expected to announce the future of Interislander’s Cook Strait ferries this week – after the $3 billion mega ferry contract was canned last year due to ‘significant cost blowouts’. Meanwhile, a report has revealed a ‘lack of confidence’ in a French contractor’s forecasts for the $5.5 billion City Rail Link in Auckland – the company has execs flying out this month to address concerns. There’s apparently a 50% likelihood the November 2025 completion date will be met. Later on The Front Page, Transporting New Zealand’s Policy and Advocacy Lead Billy Clemens is with us to discuss why the industry is on tenterhooks over the upcoming decision around the Cook Strait ferries. But first, Public Transport Users Association chairperson Niall Robertson is with us to discuss the City Rail Link. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After decades years of tyrannical rule, and 13 years of civil war, the Assad regime in Syria has fallen. After rebels rapidly closed in on the capital of Damascus, President Bashar al-Assad and his family fled the country and reportedly are now in Moscow. It has cleared the way for rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to take control of the country. Global powers have welcomed the end of the dictatorship, but concerns are now turning towards keeping Syria a united nation. Today on The Front Page, University of Otago’s Robert Patman joins us to discuss the significance of this change, and what’s next for the embattled nation. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the coming weeks, many Kiwis will be heading to our national parks and great walks for their summer holidays. But if you're doing so for a cheap summer break, enjoy the free ride while it lasts. The Department of Conservation is $1.65 billion short every year on what it needs to cover its responsibilities - and the Government is looking at a number of ways to swell DoC’s coffers. Environmental advocates say an overhaul is needed, but they’re nervous about what squeezing money out of public land will mean for protecting nature. And that’s without considering what it might mean for your next holiday. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior writer Derek Cheng is with us to discuss the changes coming to DoC land. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When strippers arrive at work and don’t know how much money they’re taking home at the end of the shift. Their employer might decide to take a higher percentage of their wages that week, or they could’ve been fined for something inconsequential – with no way of rebutting. They can’t unionise, negotiate better contract terms, or complain to the likes of WorkSafe or the Commerce Commission. Fired Up Stilettos is an organisation and social movement working to improve the lives of strippers and sex workers in Aotearoa. Today on The Front Page, one of the group’s organisers Margot Embargot joins us to discuss the deception, discrimination, and stigma these workers face daily. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are continued calls to tighten alcohol laws in New Zealand. The growing trend of online deliveries has made advocates worried, with a study finding a large portion of alcohol deliveries bypassed ID checks. Meanwhile, Auckland's new alcohol policy, starting December 9, will reduce sales hours and tighten regulations on new liquor licenses. Across the ditch, New South Wales is looking to introduce new rules to regulate pre-mixed alcoholic beverages, especially those with candy-like flavours and colourful packaging. So, should there be more restrictions around the sale and advertising of alcohol in New Zealand? Today on The Front Page, we speak to Alcohol Healthwatch executive director, Andrew Galloway on where we should scale up restrictions first, and later to New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council executive director Virginia Nicholls for the industry’s reaction. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s summer is shaping up to be hotter and drier than average. The country’s forecast has shrugged off the rainy start to summer with temperatures soaring into the 30s in some parts in the coming week. But, moving through January and February, the weather patterns are predicted to become more La Nina-like, which would bring increased chances of more rain events. So as the country gears up for a summer break, today on The Front Page, we’re looking at what is on the cards weather-wise for the weeks and months ahead with MetService meteorologist John Law. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins has told the party it must change if it wants to re-gain the trust it's lost. The party held its annual conference in Christchurch at the weekend, the first time its members have met since the 2023 election defeat. The party has inched closer to campaigning on a wealth tax or a capital gains tax, at the next election - after members passed a proposal to move the idea forward. And it’s made three major promises – a full Dunedin Hospital rebuild, rail-enabled ferries, and not getting involved in AUKUS. As the coalition government deals with contentious policies and flat poll results, can Hipkins pull off a win in 2026? He joins us today on The Front Page to discuss the path ahead for Labour. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pharmac is now funding a new medicine and has removed renewal criteria for ADHD treatments. Advocates are welcoming the move – saying it’s a game-changer that will save the health system tens of millions of dollars. But, there are warnings it could lead to over-diagnosing and over-prescribing. Today on The Front Page, co-founder of DivergenThinking and registered psychologist, Anton Ashcroft joins us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Black Friday and many Kiwi shoppers have already begun the hunt for some great deals. While some retailers promise big discounts – sometimes, all is not what it seems. Claims of retailers hiking prices before discounting them to make them look like a better deal are becoming more common – making us wonder, are the specials really that special? So, during a time when Kiwis are counting their pennies – how can we make sure we are getting the most bang for our buck. Today on The Front Page, price comparison platform PriceMe CEO Gavin Male joins us to give us some tips and insight into these massive sales events. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The official cash rate has been cut by 50 basis points, bringing it down to 4.25 percent. This marks the third consecutive cut to the OCR since August and brings it to the lowest level since November 2022. With inflation also dropping last month to 2.2 percent, stats show an improving economy – but low spending is sparking concerns that we aren’t out of the woods yet. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Simplicity chief economist Shamubeel Eaqub to run through the numbers. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today marks a year since the coalition government of National, Act and New Zealand First took office. The coalition hit the ground running, by reversing the previous Labour Government’s agenda in a ‘policy bonfire’, slimming down the public service, and reverting many Crown organisations to their English names. This, and the scrapping of the Māori Health Authority, kickstarted tensions between this Government and Māoridom – with backlash on the Treaty Principles Bill only adding fuel to the flames earlier this month. But, with wins around tax cuts, benefits for families, more regional investment, and new laws to tackle crime --there’s plenty for the Government to celebrate – with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon saying this week he is ‘aspirational’ for New Zealanders’ and ‘energized’ for the next two years. To discuss how the coalition government has fared with all this in mind, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by political commentator and researcher Bryce Edwards. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Climate change conference COP29 has wrapped up with a significant but controversial final agreement. Negotiations came down to the wire over a US$1.3 trillion to help finance poorer countries to deal with the impacts of climate change and cut emissions. But, only about $300 billion of that target will come from direct payments or loans from richer countries – which has sparked backlash from nations in the direct line of fire from rising sea levels and increasing temperatures. So what does this deal actually mean, and is getting a deal better than no deal at all? Today on The Front Page, University of Canterbury Professor of Political Science and International Relations, Bronwyn Hayward is with us to discuss the details. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research shows a third of New Zealand adults are obese – and policies focused on individual responsibility are failing. A Helen Clark Foundation report suggests tackling obesity will require cracking down on junk food advertising, the proliferation of takeaways, and bringing in new levies on unhealthy products. So, is the era of placing the blame on the individual going to be a thing of the past? And can the government to anything to curb obesity in this country? Today on The Front Page, Helen Clark Foundation executive director Murray Bruges is with us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional development has been a major focus of the coalition government. The Fast Track Bill, the return of oil and gas exploration and the Regional Infrastructure Fund is all promised to get work back to the regions and help them thrive. And the man running the show is the so-called Matua of Mining and Prince of the Provinces, Shane Jones. He’s the Minister for oceans and fisheries, regional development, and resources – and there’s not an endangered frog or a surfing hippie that’s going to get in his way. Today on The Front Page, Jones joins us to discuss his reckons on what’s best for the regions, and whether you can fight climate change at the same time as backing provincial New Zealand. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s promised the “free ride” for gangs, is officially over. From today, gang patches will no longer be allowed to be worn in public, courts will be able to issue non-consorting orders, and Police will be able to stop members from communicating with each other. Greater weight will also be given to gang membership at sentencing – and repeat offenders continually convicted of displaying their patches in public will be subject to a new court order, prohibiting them from possessing any gang insignia in public, or private, for five years. But any of this be any kind of deterrent to the more than 9000 gang members in New Zealand? Today on The Front Page, lifetime Black Power member and community advocate Denis O'Reilly is with us to discuss his perspective on these new laws. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The war in Ukraine has hit the one-thousand-day mark. On February 24, 2022 – Russia invaded Ukraine – since then, hundreds of thousands of people have died, many more have been injured, and millions are displaced. It's been called the largest and deadliest in Europe since World War II. This week, US President Joe Biden gave the green light for Ukraine to strike Russia with US-made, long-range missiles. It comes just nine weeks before Donald Trump takes office, who on the election trail pledged to put an end to the war. So, after a thousand days how will these missiles change the war, and what will a Trump peace deal look like? Today on The Front Page, Waikato University international law professor, Alexander Gillespie, is with us to discuss if there’s an end in sight for the conflict. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The hikoi that started in Cape Reinga and has made its way down the country arrives in Wellington today. While many have taken part in various stages of the hikoi, tens of thousands of people are expected outside the Beehive today, as a protest against the Government’s policies impacting Maori, including the Treaty Principles Bill. Te Pati Maori have been leading the push back against the Government, notably with a viral haka stunt in Parliament during the Bill’s first reading that has garnered global attention. The party’s co-leader, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, joins us today on The Front Page to discuss the hikoi, that viral haka, and why they are fighting back so strongly against this Government. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On August 9 2021, the day after the Tokyo Olympics ended, cyclist Olivia Podmore died in a suspected suicide. Podmore had represented New Zealand in the 2016 Olympics, but was not selected five years later. Her death sparked shock throughout the close knit cycling community and wider sporting network, and the culture at Cycling NZ was eventually investigated. Now, over three years later, a coronial inquiry into Podmore’s death is due to begin today. NZ Herald reporter Tom Dillane has been covering the story for the last three years, and joins us today on The Front Page to discuss Olivia Podmore’s life, career, and her tragic death. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan Sills Suicide and depression help services: If it is an emergency and you or someone else is at risk, call 111. For counselling and support: Lifeline: http://www.lifeline.co.nz, call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) Suicide Crisis Helpline: www.lifeline.org.nz/services/suicide-crisis-helpline, or call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) Youth services: Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234 What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm) Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7) Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737 Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call 0800 000 053 For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, hauora, community mental health team, or counselling service. The Mental Health Foundation has more helplines and service contacts - click here for informationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People respond to election losses in various ways, from protesting to legal action to considering moving country. But, what about adopting a vow of celibacy through something called the “4B movement”? That’s what some young women in the US have promised on social media in protest of Donald Trump winning back the White House. No dating. No sex, No childbirth. And no marriage. In a world where: the next US President was found liable for sexual abuse, online vitriol against women is skyrocketing, and the term “your body, my choice” is trending online... how effective could this 4B movement be? University of Otago PhD candidate Rachel Billington has researched how young people interact with each other online, and joins us now on The Front Page to discuss this growing movement. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Seymour’s Treaty Principles Bill was introduced to Parliament last week – with its first reading debate scheduled for today. The bill has sparked fierce criticism since it was included as part of National and Act’s coalition agreement last year. Protests are expected outside Parliament today, while thousands of marchers protesting Government policies affecting Maori crossed the Auckland Harbour Bridge yesterday as part of a hikoi to Parliament. So, now that we’ve actually seen the Bill, what’s in it, and what are the chances of it actually getting across the line? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls joins us to discuss one of the most contentious Government bills in recent memory. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As votes continue to be counted in the US, President-elect Donald Trump has swept all seven battleground states, confirming his dominant performance in the country’s election. While many were shocked that the US would return to Trump after four years, many voters have made it clear their feelings about high inflation and the cost of living under the Biden administration swayed them towards the Republicans. It’s a similar sentiment that helped National, Act and NZ First ascend to power in our election last year. But, in a global economic environment, how much sway does one political leader have over how much you're paying for groceries and petrol? Today on The Front Page, we discuss this with NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.