The Front Page

Unity is the theme for this year’s Matariki. Today is the fourth year of the public holiday, marking the Maori new year. It’s the first holiday to recognise Maori – and the first new public holiday introduced since Waitangi Day became a holiday in 1974. Today on The Front Page, Professor Rangi Mātāmua the chief advisor for Matariki is with us to take us through what the holiday 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 DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major blaze at an Auckland supermarket this week has once again highlighted the incredible work of our firefighters. More than 20 appliances and over 80 firefighters spent hours containing the fire at the Victoria Park New World this week, in scenes that captivated audiences across the country. It’s not the first major fire the city has seen this year, and it’s unlikely to be the last. So what’s it like on the frontline of these fires – and is our current fleet of firefighting appliances up for the job? Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union Auckland President, Terry Bird, and Auckland local representative Josh Nicholls, to get into what it’s really like for our firefighters. 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.

We are halfway through the year, but there have already been a number of confronting headlines about early childhood education providers in 2025. Earlier this year, the Herald ran a number of stories about children “escaping” from centres around the country. And in the last week, two coroners reports have come out highlighting tragic deaths that befell two young children. The news comes after a review by the Ministry of Regulation into ECEs and how they operate, with another review just announced by the Education Ministry into funding coming next. Today on The Front Page, we are discussing what’s happening with rules, regulations and funding with Dr Sarah Alexander, chief advisor to the Office of Early Childhood Education. 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.

Tensions are high in the Middle East, as Israel and Iran continue to trade strikes. It comes after Israel launched a surprise attack last Friday against multiple targets in Iran, including nuclear and military sites. Iran has retaliated, and this back and forth shows no signs of stopping – instead, both sides are threatening to escalate the conflict. With major international players now weighing in, how big could this get – and will New Zealand have to pick a side? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago international relations professor, Robert Patman is with us to take us through the history, and future, of this complicated relationship. 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 was February 19, 2013. Maree Schafer was excited to start a hairdressing course at the Eastern Institute of Technology the next day. That night, three cars - a silver Holden Commodore, a blue Ford Falcon, and a grey Nissan Skyline were street racing near Napier. The Commodore continued through an intersection, going well over 180km/hour, when the driver lost control, slid sideways across the road, and crashed into a tree. There were three occupants in that car. One was 18-year-old Maree. She died at the scene. Twelve years later, and boy racer events are still happening. People are injured, cars totalled, police intimidated, and, people die. Just last month, riot police clashed with what the Police Minister’s called “cowardly, try-hard idiots” in Levin and Palmerston North – and police are preparing for more gatherings. Today on The Front Page, Coreen Schafer, Maree’s mother, tells us what she’d say to one of these kids, and what life is like after losing her daughter to street racing. 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.

Six years after Gore toddler Lachie Jones was found dead in a Gore oxidation pond, the coroner has handed down his findings. And coroner Alexander Ho has called for a third police investigation, concluding that there were gaps in the original investigations that make it difficult to truly establish what happened to the three year old that night. NZ Herald reporter Ben Tomsett has been following the proceedings, and joins us The Front Page for a bonus episode to discuss the coroner’s findings. 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.

If you’ve turned on an American news channel in the last week, you would’ve seen wall to wall coverage of protests spreading across the country. It all started in Los Angeles, where clashes between police and protesters were exacerbated by Donald Trump bypassing Governor Gavin Newsom and sending National Guard and Marine troops to the city. LA Mayor Karen Bass has blamed the protests on Trump's immigration raids, which she said "provoked" residents by causing "fear" and "panic". While Trump has compared protesters to a “foreign invasion” and said that troops will “liberate” Los Angeles. With the protests now being picked up in other major cities, how widespread could this get – and how much of this is a test case for what will happen in the rest of Trump’s term? Today on The Front Page, 9News US correspondent Jonathan Kearsley is with us from Los Angeles to explain what’s happening on the ground. 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.

More than 600 days of war and an 11-week blockade of all aid has pushed those living in Gaza into a deeper crisis. Israel imposed a full humanitarian blockade of Gaza in March, cutting off food, medical supplies, and other aid to the more than two million Palestinians living there. And while some aid has been allowed in in recent weeks, many countries are calling for more to be done. New Zealand has joined the condemnation, placing travel restrictions against two Israeli ministers, but is that going to be enough to send a strong message? Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Alexander Gillespie to get into the latest on the ongoing Israel-Hamas 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.

Is New Zealand’s legal system moving fast enough to adapt to new technologies? It’s a question being asked by some of our top academics and MPs. The conversation around covert recordings has made headlines this week – as well as questions around whether it’s illegal. And Act MP Laura McClure made global headlines after holding up a photo of herself naked in Parliament. It was an AI-generated ‘deepfake’, which McClure said took her only moments to create. So do our existing laws protect victims from being abused through rapidly developing technology? First on The Front Page, we discuss that viral deepfake moment with Act’s Laura McClure. Then, on the rise of new techology, University of Canterbury professor of law, Cassandra Mudgway. 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.

Every few weeks, it seems that we are reporting on a recidivist drink driver who is once again going through the court system due to their behaviour. And there are still thousands going through the justice system every year. In fact, figures show that over 15,000 people were convicted last year for driving under the influence. Now, a new survey has shown consistent support from New Zealanders to tackle drink driving. Conducted by the New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council, more Kiwis are keen to see Police issue on the spot fines for minor alcohol related offences, while there remains high support for confiscating cars and the use of alcohol interlocks in cars. With this high support in place, what can be done to get drunk drivers off our roads? Today on The Front Page, we discussing how we can curb drunk drivers with Virgina Nicholls, executive director of the New Zealand Alcohol Beverages Council. 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 divided nature of our politics has been spotlighted once again. A fiery debate has seen Te Pati Maori’s leaders suspended for Parliament in the harshest punishment ever handed down to a politician. It was a vote made along party lines – with the Government parties voting in favour of the Privileges Committee recommendations, and the left-bloc voting against. And that split was highlighted once again by two polls with conflicting results showing who will win next year. Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls to discuss the latest in politics – starting with a scandal that has hit the Prime Minister’s office. 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 has been revealed that the Government considered using private company Bluebridge to replace the current Interislander fleet. It’s just the latest in the saga that is the Cook Strait ferries, after years of negotiations, debate, and an axed contract. But it’s hardly the first time we’ve had a major transport project face delays and changes. All forms of transport are eyeing big investments, but how long before we actually get some movement? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political reporter Azaria Howell is with us to dig into the politics behind the country’s transport networks. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new study suggests that another Pike River mine disaster is likely. The Victoria University of Wellington researchers say the failures that lead to the disaster that killed 29 men could happen again at any other organisation. One of their "potentially disturbing observations" is that health & safety training, auditors, and well-qualified staff were not enough to prevent failure – and may also have provided an "illusion of certainty" and overconfidence. The new research has come amidst a slew of changes to health and safety legislation being pushed through by the Government, which has sparked warnings from advocates. One of those is Mike Cosman, an independent health and safety practitioner who sat on the Independent Taskforce on Workplace Health & Safety established after the Pike River disaster. And he joins us now on The Front Page to discuss this new study and the proposed changes. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A warmer winter is coming, meaning we might not need our heaters as much as we usually would. However, these conditions won’t be great for those heading away for ski season. And, while the puffer jackets can stay in the wardrobe, those rain ones will be getting a workout – because with a warmer winter, comes rain. Today on The Front Page, Niwa forecaster Chris Brandolino is with us, to give a glimpse into what the weather might look like in the months ahead. 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 world of pop culture fandom was once on the fringes of society – comic books, anime and sci-fi movies have historically been seen as the realm of nerds living in their parents basement. But in recent years, the power dynamics have shifted, and what was once considered niche is now very much in the mainstream. Blockbuster movies are increasingly being dominated by superhero and fantasy genre, and that’s seeping into the world of prestige television. And everything from Labubus to the latest Nintendo Switch console are flying off the shelves in ways that are taking their makers by surprise. To unpack why this side of pop culture is proving so popular, we’re joined today on The Front Page by the Academic Dean at SAE Creative Media Institute, Dr Lorna Piatti-Farnell. 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.

2024 was a difficult year for the Royal Family, with King Charles and the Princess of Wales both going public with cancer diagnoses, which required lengthy treatment that took them out of the spotlight. Things have been looking rosier for the family so far this year, and the King is even flexing his diplomatic muscles in a visit to Canada amidst tensions between the country and the United States. However, in recent weeks, the friction between the monarchy and Prince Harry has made headlines once again. Today on The Front Page, for King’s Birthday, we’re touching in on the current state of the Royal Family with UK correspondent Gavin Grey. 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.

Act Party leader David Seymour will become New Zealand’s deputy prime minister tomorrow, taking over from Winston Peters. He will be the 19th person to be the country’s second in command. First elected to Parliament in 2014 – the last decade and a bit has seen Seymour’s meteoric rise from being his party’s sole MP to now sitting alongside 10 colleagues after Act’s best ever result in the 2023 election. That result has allowed him to push through big changes around issues like regulation and government spending – but championing legislation such as the Treaty Principles Bill has also made him a lightning rod for controversy and backlash. Today on The Front Page, Seymour joins us to talk his new role, backlash, regulations – and his thoughts on the opposition. 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 Reserve Bank has cut the Official Cash Rate 25-basis-points -- to 3.25 percent. That's the lowest it's been since August 2022 – though there were discussions about holding it. Today's move is in line with most economists' expectations, and is another positive sign of the growth of the economy. But there remains global uncertainty over President Trump’s policies and what impact his tariffs and trade wars could have. Today on The Front Page, Infometrics chief forecaster, Gareth Kiernan is with us to dissect the decision to cut again, and what impact global politics could have on our economy. 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.

We’ve all got an anecdote or a story about a tradie who did us dirty, or an issue with a new build. Well, now we’ve got some actual evidence around what’s happening in the construction industry. The Building Research Association of New Zealand has launched a new a Build Insights tool to provide accurate information on everything from tradie callbacks to new apprenticeships and the cost of new builds. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Head of Data Chris Knox is running us some of the key stats when it comes to tradies, then we’re joined by BRANZ senior economist Matt Curtis to talk through the broader economic picture. 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’ll come as no surprise when I say our emergency departments are suffering. It’s a tale that’s haunted consecutive governments and one that has those at the frontline crying out for support. Winter is one of the busiest periods for hospitals, and many are already reportedly at capacity. But, what do we do with this broken record? And how do we fix a sector that's been chronically underfunded for generations? Today on The Front Page, Herald senior investigative reporter Michael Morrah joins us to discuss what he’s heard from those at the coalface of this crisis. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new Jurassic World movie is right around the corner, taking us back to the world where dinosaurs have been brought back from the dead. But what has been a science fiction concept for decades might be closer to reality. Colossal Biosciences claims it’s “successfully de-extincted" the dire wolf, a species that ceased to exist around 10,000 years ago. The biotech company, which is backed by big name investors and celebrities alike, has a goal to bring back the likes of the woolly mammoth, the Tasmanian tiger, the northern white rhino, and the dodo. But, if it's successful, is it right? Should we let nature take its course? And what would bringing back a species that disappeared thousands of years ago do to our world as we know it today? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago Department of Zoology Associate Professor Nic Rawlence joins us to discuss the ethical dilemma we now face. 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 coalition Government has unveiled its second Budget. Over 20 billion dollars in savings has been found over the next four years, more than half from controversial changes to our pay equity scheme. There are changes to KiwiSaver contributions, means testing for support for parents, and a major new tax incentive for businesses. Finance Minister Nicola Willis said that it is a “responsible budget”, while Labour has called it an ‘austerity budget’ that leaves women out and is stealing from our kids. To break down what this all means for you, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officially dubbed the “Growth Budget” - unofficially, the “no BS Budget” - Finance Minister Nicola Willis has unveiled where New Zealand's dollars are being spent. From the outset, she promised no frills or excess – saying for months there’s very little left in the kitty. Big changes include cuts to Government KiwiSaver contributions, means testing on the financial support parents can access, health investments, and a new tax incentive for businesses. Listen as we run through the numbers 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/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Society is always under pressure to keep up – given the world around us is in a constant state of change. Our education sector is no different. Education officials are attempting to crack down on the use of artificial intelligence in NCEA exams, after a rise in substantiated breaches last year. It’s an extra challenge for schools on top of other issues that have emerged since Covid – like a decline in students’ mental health. Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB education reporter Jaime Cunningham joins us to discuss the multitude of problems facing the education sector. 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.

Only a few weeks after he had reportedly been in contention for the country’s top police job, deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming was suspended and put on leave. The Independent Police Conduct Authority and New Zealand Police were investigating, but the nature of the allegations could not be reported. Months went by without any developments. That was – until last week, when McSkimming resigned after allegations surfaced of “objectionable material” being found on his work computer. NZ Herald senior crime reporter Jared Savage broke the story back in December and joins us today on The Front Page to explain what is going on. 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.

Adolf Hitler. Joseph Stalin. Benito Mussolini. Pol Pot. Saddam Hussein. Apart from being some of the most famous dictators in human history, they all have one thing in common. They all had dramatic, violent, and disgraced downfalls. But, in almost every case, foreign powers played a major role in shaping the post-dictatorship future. How Tyrants Fall: And How Nations Survive by political scientist Marcel Dirsus delves into the vulnerabilities of authoritarian regimes and explores strategies for their dismantling. Dirsus was recently in New Zealand for the Auckland Writers Festival, and joined The Front Page while here to discuss tyrants and whether we’ve learnt anything from the world’s darkest rulers. 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 Parliament is a ‘house of chaos’. At least that’s how our own deputy Prime Minister has described the debating chamber. The C-Bomb was dropped in Parliament last week by Brooke van Velden, quoting a Stuff column by Andrea Vance that was criticising the Government’s changes to pay equity. It has muddied an already dirty debate over women’s pay that is set to overshadow the Budget this year. And at the same time, Te Pati Maori’s co-leaders have been threatened with suspension from Parliament for three weeks, over last year’s headline-making haka. Today on The Front Page, to help us make sense of the chaos, we’re joined by Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls. 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 on wokeness’ may feel like a new phenomenon, but in fact, it’s been around for centuries. People have been ‘cancelled’, in one way or another, since the beginning of time – it's human nature to form tribes, create an ‘us’ and ‘them’, and serve as judge, jury, and sometimes literally, executioner. But in recent years, the ‘culture wars’ have erupted between the left and right, progressive and conservative, the woke and anti-woke over everything from gender and sexuality to race and equal rights. Discriminations – Making Peace in the Culture Wars is the latest work by British philosopher A. C. Grayling, where he delves into some of the biggest issues of our time. He joins us today on The Front Page to discuss wokeness, who decides who gets to be ‘cancelled’, and understanding mankind’s inherent need to be right. A.C. Grayling will be appearing at the Auckland Writers Festival from May 13–18. For more information and tickets, visit www.writersfestival.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/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve looked at headlines around the world lately, you’d be forgiven for thinking that immigration is the root of all our problems. Perhaps the most vocal anti-immigration critic at the moment is the United States, with mass deportations happening against undocumented migrants. Now the UK Government is vowing to fix a ‘broken’ immigration system with new policies, which are estimated to lead to a 100,000 drop in immigration per year by 2029. The move comes after the rise of Reform UK, with a staunch anti-immigration policy that has become more mainstream in recent years. So why are a lot of countries turning against immigration, and are those concerns valid or passing the blame? Today on The Front Page, Massey University distinguished professor Paul Spoonley is with us to explore the realities and fiction of immigration 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 DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s on high alert – after an Auckland ferry worker tested positive for measles. They were infectious while on board a number of Fullers360 sailings on May 5, at a Kelston supermarket, and Downtown car park. Two days later, they were at Unichem New Lynn and Pak 'n Save Mt Albert. The marine crew member had recently travelled to Asia, but they weren’t infectious on their flight home. So, how concerning is this latest outbreak? And have we not learned anything from our days of Covid? Today on The Front Page, University of Auckland senior lecturer and research virologist Natalie Netzler joins us to take us through the do’s and don’ts when it comes to measles. After the interview was recorded, Health Minister Simeon Brown released updated Health New Zealand vaccination data. Just over 80% of all kids are now fully immunised by the age of 2 – the highest rate since 2022. 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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a week of tensions, India and Pakistan have reached a ceasefire deal. Tensions over the disputed territory of Kashmir were reignited after a massacre of Hindu tourists last month, leading to a series of bombings between the two countries that sparked fears they would return to full out war. While the ceasefire deal is holding for now, many in the Kashmir region are hoping a permanent solution can be found. Today on The Front Page, Auckland University Director of Global Studies, Chris Ogden is with us to explain the historical tensions between the two countries, and what is needed for permanent peace. 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: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is set to cut billions of dollars from spending at the upcoming budget as a cost-saving measure in these tight financial conditions. But what if there was a way to raise more revenue from existing industries? Analysis from the Herald has looked at the ‘black market’ or the informal economy – the industries dominated by cash in hand methods of payment that pass by the tax system. NZ Herald Head of Newsroom Data Chris Knox has run the numbers, and joins us today on The Front Page to talk through how much the country is missing out on. 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: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Party is looking to follow Australia and ban social media for under-16s. It has submitted a members bill that would look to limit how young people engage with the likes of Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Since Australia’s world-leading ban was passed into law last year, multiple countries are looking at bans as a way of addressing concerning social media habits. But is a ban actually feasible, and would it address the real issues with social media? Today on The Front Page, Dr Alex Beattie, a media lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington joins us to discuss the potential ban and if we should be following in Australia’s footsteps. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Sound Engineer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After 22 years, video calling platform Skype is shutting down. After its inception, to ‘skype’ became a verb – and it was the go-to service for many years. That is... until Covid-19 and Zoom took over. So how has something once thought to be so innovative become so obsolete? Who decides what apps and sites we migrate to – and looking to the future, what could be the next big bang – or bust? Today on The Front Page, Victoria University of Wellington professor of information systems, Alex Richter joins us to discuss the fickle world of tech. 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.

This year marks 15 years since the birth of Auckland’s Super City. The controversial idea to merge eight regional and district councils into one SUPER council was kickstarted after a Royal Commission on Auckland Governance back in 2007. The city now stretches from Wellsford down to Bombay, and from Muriwai to Orere Point. More than a decade later, discussions are still being had about whether it was a good move for New Zealand's largest and most populated city. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior writer, Simon Wilson, joins us to discuss what needs to be done to make sure Auckland’s still thriving for the next 15. 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.

Donald Trump has made it through his 100 days back in office – and people are not thrilled with his performance. His approval ratings at the 100 day mark are the lowest in 70 years, with only a 44 percent approval for a man who won the popular vote only 7 months ago. It comes as his tenure has so far been dominated by tariffs and trade wars, cutting public services, gender, mass deportations, and hitting out at his enemies. And the Trump bump has even taken on a new meaning – with Canada and Australia’s left-leaning political parties reversing polls from the start of the year to stay in government. But with roughly 2000 days left in his presidency, what does the future hold for Trump 2.0? We’re working through that today on The Front Page with University of Otago Professor of International Relations, Robert Patman. 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.

This week is Rape Awareness Week in New Zealand. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 8 men experience sexual violence at some stage in their lifetime. Repeated surveys show that tens of thousands of New Zealanders are experiencing this type of assault every year. So what’s being done to try and stop the violence – and are those victims who are speaking up, getting the justice they need? Today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Clinical Psychologist and HELP Executive Director Kathryn McPhillips to discuss this crisis. 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.

Wellington City will have a new mayor by the end of this year. After previously committing to run for a second term, mayor Tory Whanau has pulled out of the race. It comes after her term was dominated by personal incidents and infighting between councillors – but she made her decision only a day after work finally started on the Golden Mile project. A number of men are running to take over the mayoral reins – with former Labour Minister Andrew Little just the latest to enter the competition. But whoever takes on the city’s top job will need to deal with rising rates, declining house prices, and ongoing ferry issues. Today on The Front Page, NZME Wellington reporter Ethan Manera joins us to discuss what Whanau’s departure means for our Capital in crisis. 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.

This month, the Government will deliver its second budget, and Finance Minister Nicola Willis is starting to tease what exactly we could see from it. And basically — don’t expect much. There will be just $1.3 billion of new discretionary operating spending in this year’s Budget, as the Government focuses once again on reducing spending by “billions” of dollars. So where is all this money going, and what goodies could the Government offer up in such tight conditions? Today on The Front Page, Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny is with us to look through what to expect for the Budget. 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 Australian federal election is heating up. Anthony Albanese is facing the challenge of becoming the first PM to be re-elected since John Howard. He has been an MP since 1996, when he was the youngest Labor member of the house. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton brings with him a wealth of experience, having been elected to the house of representatives in 2001 aged 30. Both have sat across the aisle from each other for years. And this Saturday, Australians will vote which will lead their country for the next three years. Today on The Front Page, ABC News political reporter Claudia Long takes a break from following around the candidates and joins us from Melbourne to talk polls, policies – and what Kiwis in Aussie 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: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Crime is a constant hot topic of debate in New Zealand – one that is rarely far from the front pages. The recent alleged murder of University of Auckland student Kyle Whorrall in Auckland has served as a reminder of the randomness that comes with violent crime – with a 16 year old now charged with his murder. But the Government is touting that violent crime is on the decline – years before their intended target. So are our streets really any safer – and is vibe more than policy influencing this? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior journalist Derek Cheng is with us to discuss the stats. 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.

The battle over gender and definitions is building steam in New Zealand. New Zealand First has introduced a Member’s Bill that “would ensure the biological definition of a woman and man are defined in law”. It comes after a landmark ruling in the United Kingdom, where Supreme Court judges unanimously ruled a woman is defined “by biological sex under equalities law”. The court sided with a women’s rights campaign group that argued sex-based protections should only apply to “people that were born female”. Judge Lord Hodge said the ruling should not be seen as a triumph of one side over the other, and stressed that the law still gives protection against discrimination to transgender people. But it was largely seen as a victory by campaigners, while trans rights advocates have called the ruling a huge blow to some of the most marginalised people in our society. To discuss this issue, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by University of Waikato professor of sociology and social policy Katrina Roen. 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.