The Front Page

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.

Gen Z can be credited with a few things – an uptick in climate awareness, the ability to work any kind of technology, and the revival of straight leg jeans, just to name a few. However, recruiters across the ditch in Australia have spoken out about Gen Z graduates’ demands on employers –saying their arrogant expectations are leaving a bad taste in their bosses’ mouths. The oldest of the generation, born between 1997 and 2012, are 27 years old, so they are set to stick around in the workplace for quite some time. So are they in their wrong with their approach to work, or are they actually onto something? Today on The Front Page, recruitment agency Robert Walters, CEO of Australia & NZ Shay Peters, joins us to discuss the impact of our youngest generation of workers. 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.

Ever feel like you’re getting less bang for your buck at the supermarket? Well you might be right. As production costs rise, many companies have been resorting to what’s called ‘Shrinkflation’. Rather than raising the cost to the consumer, they make the product smaller while charging the same price. According to a Global Inflation Monitor survey in 2023, 46% of consumers said that they have noticed shrinkflation, with 55% of kiwi consumers noticing the tactic and the same amount stating the practice was an unacceptable response to rising costs. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Massey University marketing professor, Bodo Lang to discuss the ethics behind shrinkflation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald J. Trump will become the 47th President of the United States of America. Democrat Kamala Harris called the former president to congratulate him and offer their support for a peaceful transition of power. Trump won’t take up office until January 20 next year – and there are a few things that’ll happen between now and then. He faces sentencing for his felony conviction for a start, that’s put down for November 26. A judge, though, could decide to throw it out though before then. There are then some formalities – like appointing some 4000 political positions in a new administration – and it’ll be next year when the idea of tariffs will come to the fore, but it’s something the rest of the world is already anticipating. On the campaign trial, he promised anywhere from 10 to 20% tariffs on imports. So, what does that mean for New Zealand exporters, specially given the US is one of our biggest trading partners? Today on The Front Page, Beef and Lamb NZ chair, Kate Acland is with us to discuss, but first, we speak to NZUS Council executive director Fiona Cooper, about our blossoming relationship with the United States – and why we should all probably take a deep breath. 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rise and rise of online retailers has hit an all-time high – with the likes of Temu and Shein dominating consumption worldwide. New research has revealed over the course of three months, one in four New Zealanders surveyed purchased products from ultra-fast fashion retailer Temu. A further 14% of Kiwis are estimated to have recently purchased from Shein. The stats keep coming: Tearfund’s 2021 Ethical Fashion Report found in 2019 that 40% of clothes imported into New Zealand could be made using forced and child labour. It’s all while one study found garments were thrown out after no more than 10 wearings. So, when it comes to t-shirts and dresses being sold as low as $6 – who is really paying the price? Today on The Front Page, Tearfund head of advocacy Claire Gray 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the one story that’s been impossible to escape this year – the US Presidential election. Months of debates, rallies, and shocking developments have led to today when Americans are heading to the polls to decide who will lead their nation for the next four years. Vice-President Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee. Taking over from incumbent Joe Biden, she’s up against former President Donald Trump in what many are calling one of the most important elections of our lifetime. We speak to NZ Herald deputy political editor Thomas Coughlan who's on the ground in the US - and run through the six months leading to election day. 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 Engineers: Dan Goodwin, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember remember the fifth of November... It’s Guy Fawkes, which means a sleepless night for some of our furry friends. For more than 400 years the English Catholic’s failure to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London has been celebrated – but at what cost? Every year we are warned by the likes of the SPCA that what is an exciting night for us, is a terrifying night for animals. Not to mention Fire and Emergency NZ is continuously urging people to think about the risk of fireworks before buying them. Each time it rolls around the question is asked – should fireworks be banned? And, why on earth does New Zealand even celebrate it in the first place? Today on The Front Page, Animates CEO Neil Cowie is with us to explain why tonight is such a scary experience for animals big and small... First, we speak to AA Insurance underwriting manager Nancye Maloni on the continued calls to roll back on the fireworks. 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 Engineers: Dan Goodwin, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If there’s one topic Kiwis never get tired of talking about, it’s houses. It’s the biggest purchase most people will ever make in their lives, so if you’re looking to buy, it pays to do your research. Fortunately, OneRoof has today released its official ranking of the 100 hottest suburbs across the nation. Alongside data partner Valocity, the experts have combed through every neighbourhood in the country, and rated them on factors like affordability, amenities, and growth potential. Today on the Front Page, we’re joined by OneRoof editor Owen Vaughn to talk about their process, and some of the surprising discoveries they made along the way. 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a murder trial that gripped New Zealand, and the world. Pauline Hanna was found dead in a Remuera home she shared with her husband, Philip Polkinghorne, on April 5, 2021. What followed was a months-long investigation, Polkinghorne charged with murder, a mammoth trial and eventually, an acquittal. A jury came back with the not guilty verdict in September – a moment that would not be mark the end of this saga. That’s because on day one of the trial, former Auckland eye surgeon Philip Polkinghorne pleaded guilty to meth charges. Today, he was sentenced to 150 hours community service – for possession of meth and a pipe. You can listen to episodes of Accused: The Polkinghorne Trial through The Front Page podcast feed, or find it on iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts. This series is presented and produced by, Chelsea Daniels, with producer Ethan Sills and sound engineers Paddy Fox and Richard Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s hunt to poach overseas doctors gets another tool in the toolbox today. From now, medical graduates from the UK, Ireland and Australia will be able to have their applications for registration assessed within 20 working days. It’ll speed up a process that would usually take six months – and the government hopes it’ll fill critical gaps in our health workforce. But, unions on the ground doubt the impact of this fast-track pathway – saying it’s welcome, but not sure that it's going to make a difference. Today on The Front Page, Association of Salaried Medical Specialists executive director Sarah Dalton 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland’s Mayor Wayne Brown has never shied away from telling us exactly what he thinks. He’s waged war on council-controlled organisations, like EkePanuku and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, with proposals to abolish them altogether and bring their activities in-house. He’s never thought twice in criticising who he calls the “weasels in Wellington” (or, central Government), and he’s also never shied away from voicing his concerns around Auckland Transport, which is currently dealing with a wave of violent attacks on drivers, and passengers. Today on The Front Page, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown joins us to discuss these issues – ahead of his trip to China, where he hopes to put the City of Sails on the to-do list for investors. 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

India has suffered its first series defeat at home since 2012 – at the hands of none other than New Zealand. The 2-0 defeat came when India was bowled out for 245 by the Black Caps in their chase of 359 on the third day of the second test. So, what does this mean for cricket in New Zealand? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald online sports editor, Alex Powell joins us to discuss this historic win – and why it matters. 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 Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sending your DNA in to a website to find out your background has become a trendy thing to do. But, is there a hidden cost to this? DNA testing company 23andMe is in financial crisis, raising questions about what will happen to the data it holds on 15 million customers worldwide. New Zealanders are concerned their genetic information could be on-sold and used for other purposes, including insurance or law enforcement. Today on The Front Page, privacy lawyer Rick Shera joins us to explain the concerns here. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2011, NZ Herald journalist David Fisher became aware that a woman had been caught catfishing dozens of teenage boys and young men across New Zealand. Catfishing is a term used for people who use stolen photos to pretend to be someone else online, usually to form relationships with real people across social media. Fisher would go on to expose the woman behind the false online accounts as Natalia Burgess. She referred to herself as ‘The Puppeteer’. Fisher interviewed Burgess on several occasions before she went to jail for charges related to her online activity. He thought she would have learnt her lesson, but two years ago he received an email from a woman who had had her photos stolen by Burgess, and it was ruining her life. Fisher explored Burgess’ actions in the true crime podcast, Chasing Ghosts: The Puppeteer, and he joins us today on The Front Page, to discuss what he learned. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems that when one political scandal ends, another one rises to take its place. This week, the Green Party ended the saga that has dominated 2024 for them, with MP Darleen Tana formally removed as an MP in the first usage of the Waka Jumping Bill. As Chloe Swarbrick and her party look to the future, it’s now National’s turn to deal with an unneeded diversion, after Minister Andrew Bayly was accused of abusing a member of the public at a business event. And at the same, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has engaged in a war of words with Te Pati Māori and the Labour Party. So, to make sense of the latest political ups and downs, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent, Barry Soper. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, we reported on the issues at Wellington City Council after councillors voted against selling airport shares, forcing a rethink of the council’s long term plan. The Coalition Government labelled the council a ‘shambles’, and threatened to send in a Crown Observer. Well, they’ve now delivered on that threat, with Local Government Minister Simeon Brown confirming that appointment will be coming. The move puts more pressure on Mayor Tory Whanau and her councillors to sort out their issues – but it has also sparked debate around if the bar is too low for the Government to intervene. Today on The Front Page, Jim Palmer, a consultant who chaired the Review into the Future for Local Government, is with us to discuss the issues at our council tables. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 youths climbed atop a youth justice facility in South Auckland on Monday night – demanding fast food, cigarettes, and a getaway car. The group made it on to the top of the Korowai Manaaki facility in Wiri just after 6.30 that night. By 9am the next day, just four remained. They came down just before noon. It’s reminiscent of an incident at the same facility last year – when groups of young people climbed onto the roof. A month later, a trio of teens did it again – and in June, another group staged a rooftop standoff at a facility near Christchurch. But, who exactly are these unruly youths – and are we doing the best to care for them? Today on The Front Page, youth worker and found of Kick Back youth development Aaron Hendry joins us to discuss these incidents. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Us mere mortals often idolise celebrities – their glitzy and glamorous lifestyles have had audiences captivated for decades. But at what point does the line blur from adoration to a sense of ownership? The tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne has sparked conversations about how far is too far when it comes to the public’s entitlement over these stars – and how intrusive media can get to serve that need. It comes off the back of a number of celebrities speaking out about the intrusion from fans and the stresses of being in the public eye. So can society change how it interacts with celebrities – or is there no rewiring of this relationship? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago Lecturer in Media, Film and Communication Dr Sabrina Moro joins us to discuss this latest dark mark in the celebrity ecoystem. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in 2020, New Zealanders voted in favour of legalising assisted dying in certain circumstances. That law was passed in 2021, and next month, a three-year review will begin into how the law is going. Ahead of that review, concerns have been raised about the six-month rule on eligible patients, and the backlog in death reports by the oversight committee. From November 2021 to June this year, there have been 864 assisted deaths. Around 20 percent of applicants are deemed ineligible. NZ Herald health reporter Isaac Davison has been following the law, and joins us today on The Front Page. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should or shouldn’t New Zealand become a republic? It’s a quandary that’s sparked fierce debate over decades, and it’s back on the agenda as King Charles heads down under for his first tour – but is skipping New Zealand. With his visit prompting debate over in Australia, is it time for New Zealand to consider becoming a republic? Today on The Front Page, Republic NZ’s Peter Hamilton joins us to discuss this issue and what a monarchy-free New Zealand could look like. We did invite Monarchy NZ to participate in this discussion, but they declined. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the next week, two big sporting gambles years in the making are about to have their payoff. On Saturday, Auckland FC – our newest A-League football team – will play their debut game against the Brisbane Roar. And then on Monday, rising Formula 1 star Liam Lawson makes his debut as a full-time driver for Red Bull at the US Grand Prix. It’s an exciting time for Kiwi sport, and shows at the changing potential of where we can succeed. Today on The Front Page, we dig into these exciting developments with Newstalk ZB sport news director Clay Wilson and senior sports reporter and podcast host Elliott Smith. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has set its sights on sorting out Wellington City Council. After councillors last week voted against a plan to sell shares in Wellington’s airport, the city’s long term plan will need to be re-opened. It has prompted Local Government Minister Simeon Brown to seek advice on potential interventions, and he has labeled the situation a ‘shambles’. So how bad have things got in the Capital? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Wellington issues reporter and host of On the Tiles Local Edition, Georgina Campbell, is with us to unpack the issues. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week marks one year since the 2023 election. That election saw Labour’s historic majority cut in half, and started weeks of negotiations between National, Act and NZ First about the shape of the government. Marking the anniversary, a 1News Verian poll shows 30% of respondents believe the country is in better shape than a year ago – while 40% think it’s worse. That divisive nature has been a cornerstone of this government, but is that having any impact on their policies? And what about the other side of the aisle? Today on The Front Page, political commentator Ben Thomas joins us to analyse the last year in 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government will introduce legislation later this year to create the Young Serious Offender category and empower Youth Court judges to send them to new boot camps. It’s all while Oranga Tamariki officials supported the view of experts that boot camps are not effective. So, why have every other iteration of bootcamps failed – and how might this government make them better? Today on The Front Page, Herald senior writer Derek Cheng is with us to discuss our tattered history of bootcamps, and what officials have warned the government about them this time round. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Official Cash Rate’s been cut to 4.75 percent – which is being touted as welcome news for households all over New Zealand. It’s the lowest the OCR has been in 18 months. The Monetary Policy Committee said that annual consumer price inflation was within its 1 to 3% inflation target range and converging on the 2% midpoint. While plenty of people are popping the champagne over this announcement, is this latest cut masking some of the other issues in the economy? Today on The Front Page, Herald Business-editor-at-large Liam Dann joins us to discuss the stats you need to know. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A local election begins today in Auckland, though you're probably not even aware. 364,000 Auckland households and businesses can vote this month for the trust board that runs Entrust. If this name sounds familiar to Aucklanders, it’s because the majority shareholder of Vector dishes out $350 payments to eligible electricity account holders every year. Yet very few of us actually vote in these elections, with voter turnout hitting single digits in 2021. Today on The Front Page, Herald senior writer Simon Wilson is with us to discuss why you should be paying attention. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Auckland’s population continues to grow, so too are the city’s schools – and many of them are running out of space. Analysis by the Herald has found that while the school-aged population has only risen by 18 percent since the year 2000, at least one school has had its roll jump by 149 percent. With space running out, it’s also prompting tough questions for schools and what they do with out of zone enrolments. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald reporter Ben Leahy joins us to digest the data he’s seen about the shortage of space in our schools. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A search for answers is underway after HM-NZS Manawanui ran aground and sank near Samoa. The $100 million ship left Auckland’s Devonport just over a week ago and was conducting a reef survey off the coast of Samoa but ran aground at 6.46pm on Saturday. The ship started to take on water shortly after, and fire broke out as well, prompting an evacuation of all personnel on board. In the end, seventy-five crew and passengers were rescued by Samoa’s Fire and Emergency Services Authority A Court of Inquiry is underway to find out what happened, while crews are on their way to work out how it can be salvaged and if there’s an environmental concern from leaking fuel. Today on The Front Page, Dr John Battersby, a Teaching Fellow in the Centre for Defence and Security at Massey University, joins us to discuss the historic nature of this incident, and its potential impact on geopolitical relationships. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a year since terrorist group Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel – sparking the deadliest conflict in the Gaza region for decades. Since then, at least 40,000 people have died, many more injured, 1.9 million displaced, and countless buildings and homes destroyed. Aid organisations have consistently warned of the humanitarian crisis on the ground – and are pleading with the world for help. Today on The Front Page, World Vision New Zealand’s Head of Advocacy and Justice, Rebekah Armstrong discusses the extent of the crisis after a year of fighting. 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: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Infrastructure is top of the agenda for the Government for the last months of 2024. The Prime Minister this week released his Q4 action plan, with plenty of targets focussing on getting things built. Among the 43 objectives is the highly controversial fast-track approvals bill, which it’s hoped will speed up the delivery of regional and national projects of significance. The focus on infrastructure comes a week after the Government announced Dunedin’s new hospital could be downgraded due to budget concerns. To discuss houses, roads, hospitals - and that niggly issue of budgets - today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mood of the Boardroom is back today for its 22nd year. The annual survey of the country’s top CEOs and business leaders has seen a broad tick of approval for the coalition Government, with strong support for Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis and their economic plan. But they want to see the Government be bolder and set out their vision for New Zealand’s future, and that could include tackling some of the most contentious economic issues in our country. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Business Editorial Director Fran O’Sullivan is with us to digest the thoughts of our top business leaders. You can read all of the Mood of the Boardroom stories at nzherald.co.nz. 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: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.