The Front Page

It’s a trying time for the Government, with fuel prices and the Iran War affecting just about every Kiwi. It’s something the Opposition knows all too well, handling a crisis not of their making, with Covid. But, how are politicians of all stripes handling the pressure? How is the public feeling about their performance? And, how much weight should we put on polls anyway? Are they nonsense? Or, are we only told to ignore them when a party’s doing poorly? Today on The Front Page, lawyer and political commentator, Liam Hehir, is with us to talk politics, polls, and policy. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every New Zealander at the moment is feeling the impact of the price of fuel. It’s something Finance Minister Nicola Willis has mentioned time and time again. She’s also made it incredibly clear that this government won’t make the same mistakes as the last – so, any financial assistance must be targeted, and temporary. That’s why she’s announced extra support for low-to-middle-income families. From April 7, about 143,000 working families with children will get an extra $50 a week through a boost to the in-work tax credit. But, what else could the Government do? What about the rest of the population without kids who are also still struggling to make ends meet? Today on The Front Page, Journalist and publisher of The Kākā, Bernard Hickey is with us to break down how a war about 15,000 kilometres away is affecting New Zealand’s economy, and New Zealanders’ wallets. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has vowed to close the Strait of Hormuz indefinitely -- if the US follows through on President Donald Trump’s threats. It’s after Trump gave Iran an ultimatum to open the passage before American forces "obliterate" their power plants. But, if that happens, there’d be a large-scale blackout, resulting in widespread civilian harm - so, the question then becomes – would that be a violation of international law? Today on The Front Page, Waikato University international law professor, Al Gillespie, is with us to take us through what could happen next. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane Yee See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, Stats NZ released New Zealand’s GDP performance for the last quarter of 2025, and the government tells us things are looking good with gross domestic product rising 0.2 percent. But the Reserve Bank had forecast growth of 0.5% - so while the latest results show we’re heading in the right direction, are we travelling fast enough? Today on the Front Page, NZ Herald Business Editor at Large, Liam Dann, joins us to explain what the latest results mean and how the conflict in the Middle East might impact the next chapter of our economic story. 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/Producer: Jane YeeEditor/Producer: Richard MartinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new study is shedding light on the changing landscape of New Zealand’s ‘party drug’ scene. The annual New Zealand Drug Trends Survey, completed by more than 8000 people nationwide, shows that ketamine is rapidly growing in popularity. Price data puts it among the more affordable options at around $200 a gram. Overseas, the UK has dubbed young people ‘Generation K’, while ketamine-related deaths rose 20-fold since 2014. Despite years of warnings from health experts about the risks, ketamine’s now gaining popularity here – so what do we do now? Today on The Front Page, Professor Chris Wilkins is with us to unpack what’s behind this trend and what it means for 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour Leader Chris Hipkins has acknowledged he considered his future in politics, in the wake of his ex-wife's allegations. She made a series of claims in a now deleted private social media post on Sunday. None of which alleges unlawful conduct. Being a politician is one of the most public facing roles in our society, but where should the line be drawn between public and private? Today on The Front Page, political commentator Grant Duncan is with us. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation could hit 3.7% under Treasury’s ‘worst-case’ inflation scenario. It’s while petrol prices have risen about 45 to 50 cents a litre, adding about $23 to the price of filling an average car. Finance Minister Nicola Willis has outlined the government's priorities - First a focus on supply chains, then potential and anticipated freight disruptions, and lastly our economic response. Ministers are meeting daily, written situation updates twice-daily, they’re working closely with importers – we're being told not to panic. But, after criticising the last government to no end about its economic decisions during the pandemic - what tools does this government have to ease cost-of living pressures? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann is with us to talk through what we could do next. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major barrier to escaping family violence, is the heartache of leaving your pet behind to get out. Every day, pets are used as tool to control and harm victims experiencing family violence. Pet Refuge provides a safe, temporary haven for pets – and demand for their shelter is at an all-time high. They’ve reported a 19% increase year on year for help. So, what does this say about New Zealand’s unacceptably high and persistent rate of family violence? Today on The Front Page, Dame Julie Chapman is with us to take us through the often forgotten lives of the pets caught in the crossfire. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re old enough, then you’ll remember there was a time when every Kiwi household had to pick a weekday where they wouldn’t drive. Carless Days were introduced in 1979 as an attempt to reduce petrol consumption amid a global oil shock thanks to the Iranian Revolution. The scheme was short lived – it was scrapped in 1980, after it achieved only a minimal reduction in petrol use. So, why are we hearing about it again now if it failed so miserably? And, are there alternatives we should be looking at closer? Today on The Front Page, transport commentator and Greater Auckland director Matt Lowrie is with us to break down the idea, and maybe what others there are as petrol prices continue to rise. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Air New Zealand is set to cut 1100 flights – affecting about 44,000 customers. CEO Nikhil Ravishankar has cited “unprecedented” jet fuel prices as the cause – which he said could not be passed on to customers, who were already facing cost-of-living challenges. A normal price for jet fuel is about US$85 a barrel -- but the product is now at about US$170 a barrel as a result of the war in Iran. It’s all prompted the Government to round up a bunch of senior ministers to oversee the country’s fuel security. Today on The Front Page, aviation journalist Grant Bradley is with us to take a look at the current situation, and crises past – and whether air travel will ever be the same. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A global oil giant is warning of a looming catastrophe unless the Strait of Hormuz reopens soon. The US and Israel war on Iran is wreaking havoc on global oil and gas markets, spiking prices and sending shockwaves across global economies. It’s being called by some commentators the “biggest oil disruption in history.” Saudi Arabia’s state oil company, Aramco, has said there would be “drastic” consequences for the world economy if the disruption continued. It’s believed oil could hit $150 US-dollars per barrel by the end of the month. But what does the wholesale price of oil mean for you at the pump? And will things get a lot worse, before they get better? Today on The Front Page, journalist and publisher of The Kākā, Bernard Hickey is with us to talk about the crisis – and what New Zealand should do next. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The final report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Covid-19 has been released. Deciding that the first phase of the inquiry was inadequate, the coalition government expanded the terms of reference to focus on lockdowns and vaccine mandates. In particular, finding out whether the former government had “considered the impact these decisions would have on society, health, education, and our economy”. The report makes 24 formal recommendations, including: framing the elimination strategy as temporary, limiting the use of urgency in lawmaking, keeping an eye on the research around social cohesion, and creating financial assistance scheme options ahead of the next crisis. But, wasn’t there already an inquiry? Why did Act and New Zealand First both insist on another? And will this government make any moves on these recommendations? Today on The Front Page, Health Minister Simeon Brown is with us to discuss the final report’s findings, and whether we’ve actually learned anything from it. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trade Me is bidding farewell to some of its marketplace fees. From March 10, sellers won’t have to pay a 7.9% success fee when they sell things like their couch, a dress, lamp, or TV. The platform’s said it wants to make it easier for Kiwis to declutter their homes, say goodbye to their second hand stuff, and get some extra cash in their pockets. But, it the change ACTUALLY about that – or is TradeMe getting outshone by other online marketplaces? Today on The Front Page, Massey University marketing expert Bodo Lang is with us to talk about our obsession with selling our old stuff. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new poll out today spells a storm brewing for National. The Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll has shown National drop nearly three-points to 28.4% -- the lowest poll for the party since it formed a Government in 2023. It’s while Labour is up 0.3 points to 34.4% - The Greens are up to 10.5%, NZ First are down to 9.7%, ACT up to 7.5%, and Te Pāti Māori up to 3.2 percent. This all means that if an election was held today, the centre-Left bloc could form the next government, although by a pretty small margin. The situation is being compared to National’s performance in the 2020 election, where the party suffered one of the worst election losses in its history. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald political editor, Thomas Coughlan, is with us to break down what the numbers mean, and who could be on the chopping block. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Rennie is the new coach of the All Blacks. The former Chiefs and Wallabies mentor will succeed Scott Razor Robertson, and take charge through until the end of the 2027 World Cup. But, does he have what it takes to bring about a much-needed reset for our national side? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior sports journalist and rugby correspondent, Liam Napier is with us to unpack the past, present and future of the ‘man with mana’, Dave Rennie. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US and Israel are escalating attacks on Iran - which has launched counterattacks on neighbouring Gulf states. All the while, the push and pull on European leaders has been in the spotlight – with Trump publicly chastising UK PM Sir Keir Starmer. That’s due to his refusal to offer up a British base for the initial wave of strikes. Britain is scrambling to send a warship to Cyprus after France announced a major deployment to the eastern Mediterranean. So, with the involvement of EU countries, is it only a matter of time before the Pacific is called up to help? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago international relations professor Robert Patman is with us to dissect what could happen next. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has cut off one of the world’s most strategically important choke points. About a fifth world’s total oil consumption passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s revolutionary guards commander-in-chief has warned that “if anyone tries to pass” they will “set those ships ablaze”. The narrow sea passage sits between Oman and Iran. Experts have said a prolonged conflict in the Middle East could lead to a sustained rise in oil prices, fueling inflation, and having global economic effects. Today on The Front Page, geopolitical analyst Dr Geoffrey Miller is with us to take us through why the blocking of just over three kilometres of water can have global ramifications. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US and Israel have launched a massive assault on Iran. Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the strikes will increase over the coming days. Donald Trump has said that they “figured it will be four weeks or so” when asked about a potential timeline. Iran has retaliated, unleashing its own strikes on US military bases, Israel and other targets across the Middle East. The killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and many of his senior commanders has left Tehran’s future leadership in question. But questions are also swirling about the legality of the strikes. Today on The Front Page, Waikato University international law professor, Al Gillespie is with us to discuss how we got here, and where to next. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The debate over asset sales has reared its head again, this time after a very grim result for our national carrier. Air New Zealand has reported an after tax $40 million loss for the six months to December. We’ve had a controversial and complicated history when it comes to selling off state assets. From bailing out banks to the great 90s airport selloff, it’s always been a touchy subject for Kiwis who want to keep everything in house. But, is it time for us to face facts that maybe privatisation isn’t that bad after all? Today on The Front Page, Act Party leader and Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour is with us to chat about what should stay, and what should go. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New figures show New Zealand women are significantly under-represented in property ownership. More than half (53%) of Gen Z men and two-thirds (66%) of Millennial men own the home they live in. That’s compared to the female figures of about a third and under half, respectively. Today on The Front Page, Cotality NZ’s chief property economist, Kelvin Davidson is with us to discuss what’s contributing to the discrepancy, and how we might be able to fix it. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is cash really still King? For years, more stores are no longer accepting cash as payment and it’s easy to see why, with 94% of transactions in 2024 being digital. They’re also not obligated to either. In 2023, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand found cash usage for everyday purchases had decreased from 95.8% in 2019 -- to 57.2% that year. Apparently just 8% of New Zealanders were regular or daily cash users. But today, the Reserve Bank’s opened public consultation on a proposal that would force banks to set up hundreds, if not thousands, of additional ATMs and branches to make sure people have access to cash. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenée Tibshraeny joins us to discuss why cash might be here to stay. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are calls for urgent action – after yet another fatal dog attack. The death of a 62-year-old woman in Northland marks the fourth fatal dog attack in four years. It’s while dog-related injuries and hospitalisations rise every year. ACC statistics show more than 29,200 dog-related injuries in 2024/25 - nearly half of them a result of dog bites. So, how do we get on top of this issue? Should Dog Control Laws go further? Today on The Front Page, SPCA chief scientific officer, Dr Arnja Dale, is with us to discuss how we could potentially move forward, so no one else dies from a dog attack. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Move-on orders are being pitched as a way to “reclaim” town and city centres. The Government is proposing a law which would allow Police to order someone rough sleeping or begging to leave a public space for up to 24 hours. They could be fined up to $2000 or three months in jail if they don't. Critics say that does nothing to create homes, risks criminalising poverty, and simply shifts people – and the problem – from one street or suburb to another. Today on The Front Page, Community Housing Aotearoa Chief Executive Paul Gilberd joins us to talk about the real impact on people experiencing homelessness. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK police have arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of committing misconduct in public office. It comes after allegations the former prince shared confidential information with former financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein when he was a UK trade envoy, a role he held from 2001 to 2011. Police searched his Sandringham home and former Royal Lodge residence. He has since been released, after about 12 hours of questioning. Today on The Front Page, Royal correspondent Gavin Grey joins us from Windsor to break down the latest on this disgraced royal. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A step forward for housing capacity in our largest city – or a step back on housing affordability? Auckland’s explosive debate over density planning has come to a head, with Housing Minister Chris Bishop making a U-turn on capacity limits. It’s all got to do with the controversial “PC120” plan.... which has been scaled back slightly to allow for 1.6 million homes to be built, as opposed to 2 million. But, what does that actually mean? And why have the rules to pack more homes into Auckland sparked such a fierce debate? Today on The Front Page, journalist Simon Wilson is with us to unpack the updated plans, the protests, and what it means for your backyard. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does New Zealand and David Hasselhoff have in common? The answer, is TV producer Alex Breingan. He has been hit with a raft of Serious Fraud Office charges... and is the same guy whose production company, Stripe Studios, owed the Baywatch star money. Turns out, he might owe a lot more people, a lot more. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Media Insider Shayne Currie is with us to take us through the rise, and falls, of this high-flying, Kiwi producer. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fixing the leaks, not just buying bigger mops. That’s the theme of the National Infrastructure Plan released today. It looks at 17 sectors covering central government, local authorities, and commercially regulated utilities. The 30-year outline sets out how New Zealand can improve the way it plans, funds, maintains, and delivers infrastructure... and guess what, it turns out we don’t do it very well. Each year we invest just over $20 billion on infrastructure, yet on a dollar-for-dollar basis we achieve less than many of our international peers. Today on The Front Page, New Zealand Infrastructure Commission Chief Executive Geoff Cooper will take us through this mammoth report. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eden Park’s gearing up for more gigs, more goals, and more growth. The number of concerts allowed each year at Auckland’s Eden Park stadium will almost triple under new rules announced today by the Government. Under the new settings, the stadium will be allowed to host up to 12 large and 20 medium-sized concerts a year - without the need for resource consent. We’ll speak to Sir Graham Lowe about the first Eden Park hosting the New Zealand's first-ever State of Origin match next year. But first on The Front Page, former Auckland Mayor Phil Goff is with us to chat about the wider changes to the stadium, and whether its neighbours will mind. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A fleet of 13 F50 foiling catamarans will tear around the Waitematā Harbour this weekend in SailGP’s return to New Zealand. Last year was the first time Auckland hosted SailGP - drawing more than 25,000 spectators. The City of Sails is the second stop of 13 across the globe for the 2026 season. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald sports reporter Christopher Reive is with us to unpack Burling and Tuke’s home water reset, American Magic’s blockbuster Danish buyout, and the must-watch foiling feats this weekend. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s been making some big trade moves on the world trade stage recently. One of them is a possible minerals deal with the United States. The US is pushing to loosen China’s grip on critical mineral processing by building alternate supply chains. But with talks well underway, what will the preliminary decline of a major seabed mining contract do to them? Today on The Front Page, Business Desk's Dileepa Fonseka is with us to discuss the deals, and whether New Zealand’s biting off more than it can chew. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Consumer NZ expects power prices to increase by about 5% this year. It’s after households were already hit with a 12% increase to power bills last year. But what does that all mean? Will it make winter that much colder? Will we have to cut back on groceries? Will people be able to afford the increase? Today on The Front Page, Consumer NZ’s Powerswitch Manager Paul Fuge is with us to break down why power companies pass on steep network hikes, and what households can do. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington’s Moa Point wastewater plant has flooded and shut down, dumping raw sewage into the south coast – this untreated discharge is set to continue for weeks. Heavy rain overwhelmed the facility, built in the 90s, triggering beach rāhuis, health warnings, and exposing how climate-driven storms are already stressing coastal infrastructure. Billions of dollars is likely required to get our wastewater infrastructure up to scratch nationwide... but after a long history of underfunding, are we too late? Today on The Front Page, University of Canterbury associate professor Ricardo Bello Mendoza is with us to unpack the engineering lessons from Moa Point, the climate risks, and what it means for our future. But first, NZ Herald senior reporter Melissa Nightingale will set the scene for us in Wellington. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Insurers have begun their retreat as climate change bites. Back-to-back disasters in recent years have pushed insured loss into the billions and forced tough questions about what can still be covered. Homeowners in flood and coast-exposed areas are starting to see higher premiums, exclusions and even the risk of losing cover altogether. AA Insurance has gone the extra mile and stopped issuing new home insurance policies in several towns entirely. So, who will pay when extreme weather keeps coming? Households, insurers, or the Government? Today on The Front Page, journalist and publisher of The Kākā, Bernard Hickey is with us to explain how climate change is reshaping insurance – and what it means for where and how we live. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s no surprise the upcoming election is a hot topic at Waitangi. But, the axing of the Treaty Principles Bill has eased tensions this year. Although, that hasn’t stopped Chris Hipkins taking aim at the government, calling it ‘anti-treaty’ so ‘therefore anti-Māori'. It’s all while a decision on Mariameno Kapa-Kingi's future with Te Pati Maori plays out in a Wellington court this week. So, what is the atmosphere of Waitangi? Who’s there? And who’s not? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths joins us from Waitangi to break down what the event means. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New jobs data out today spells worry for New Zealand’s economy. The unemployment rate was 5.4% in the December 2025 quarter – the highest since September 2015. Most banks had expected unemployment to hold steady at 5.3%, ASB was a bit more bullish picking 5.2%. It means 165,000 people were unemployed last quarter – a quarterly increase of 5,000 people... But, what does it all mean? What sectors are struggling? And can the government keep calling it all the “mess they inherited”? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann, is with us to dive into the data. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s about to become cheaper, and easier, to get your driver’s license in New Zealand. Changes include scrapping the second practical test, a longer 12-month learner period for under 25s, new restricted periods, and an expanded zero-alcohol rule for all learner and restricted drivers – regardless of age. Transport Minister Chris Bishop has said the aim is to make licensing more efficient and affordable. The new system will take effect from the end of January next year. But, will the first major change to the system in 15 years make our roads safer? Today on The Front Page, AA road safety manager Dylan Thomsen is with us to dive into the details of this new system. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sex offender Jeffrey Epstein's files have exploded back into the headlines with millions of newly released documents exposing elite networks and power dynamics. More than three million pages of material have been released – including documents, images and video. So, what does this mean for trust in traditional power structures? And is it only a matter of time before a New Zealand politician is caught up in the saga? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago international relations professor Robert Patman is with us to unpack the international ramifications. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NZ Post is removing services from 142 partner stores this year. It follows a long line of postal groups around the world scaling back as we enter a new era dominated by tech. Czech Post closed 300 post office branches, the Greek postal service shut more than 200 last year, UK networks have gone through rolling waves of reductions, and Denmark has ended traditional letter delivery entirely – an end to a 400-year-old service. But, how will the switch impact small-town communities? And the elderly? Today on The Front Page, Age Concern New Zealand chief executive Karen Billings-Jensen is with us to take us through what this could mean for those who need these services the most. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As children across New Zealand head back to school, many will be arriving without the basics. 58 schools are starting 2026 on the waitlist for KidsCan. The charity provides the essentials for Kiwi kids living in poverty. A survey of waitlisted schools shows more than half provide breakfast for their students, often diverting funds from their operational budget. So why, in 2026, are kids going to school hungry? Today on The Front Page, KidsCan CEO Dame Julie Chapman is with us to offer a glimpse into the lives of far too many children in this country who are going without. 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 24 years, former National Party leader Judith Collins has called time on her career in politics for a new role as head of the law commission. Collins is the longest-continuously serving female MP in New Zealand, winning her electorate seats in Clevedon and then Papakura at every general election she has contested since 2002. The prime minister’s office has confirmed Collins will remain the MP for Papakura, retaining her portfolios until she moves to the law commission mid-year. So, what does her departure mean for New Zealand politics, who is National lining up for her seat, and when the history books are written – what will Judith Collins’ be remembered for? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper is with us to unpack a career defined by survival, scandal, comebacks, and crushing presence in New Zealand 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recovery operation at the Mt Maunganui landslide continues with police warning it could take days or even weeks. Tauranga City Council has launched an investigation into what happened in the run-up to the deadly landslide. Already questions are being asked about who knew what, and when. We'll talk to University of Canterbury senior lecturer in disaster risk and resilience, Dr Tom Robinson about the danger of landslides after severe weather events. Also, NZ Herald senior investigative reporter Michael Morrah has been in Mount Maunganui for several days, and joins us 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From celery-juice cleanses to infomercial ab-busting gadgets, society has always been on a diet. It’s a global, multi-billion-dollar powerhouse industry. The latest trend that you would have heard about are GLP1s, or weight-loss injections. Pharmac is seeking advice on whether they should be funded for certain people. Australia’s committed to it for certain patients, taking the cost down to about $29 per script. A drug like Wegovy for instance, costs about $460 per script in New Zealand. But, are they really beneficial? Or, is it just the next get skinny quick ploy? Today on The Front Page, obesity specialist, Dr Gerard McQuinlan is with us to explore whether these drugs should be funded, or is diet and exercise really the only answer? 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.