The Front Page

There are calls for urgent changes to modernise our laws to better protect victims of sexual violence. A new Helen Clarke Foundation report identifies several gaps in our laws that need closing and changes to our justice system to reduce underreporting. Ministry of Justice data estimates about 209,000 incidents of sexual assault occur every year, affecting around 82,000 victims. Nearly one in four adults report having experienced sexual assault in their lifetime. Today on The Front Page, Senior Researcher Sarah Bell is with us to take us through the 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.

It’s the moment anyone looking for a conveniently packaged, Swedish designed kitchen cabinet is waiting for. Ikea opens in Auckland this week at Sylvia Park – and it’ll be the company’s largest store in the Southern Hemisphere, about the size of three rugby fields. You’d be pressed to find someone who hasn’t encountered news of the iconic brand in Aotearoa. But why is it such a big deal? What’s so different about Ikea? We’ve brought Quantum Jump CEO and marketing expert Ben Goodale along with us to get an early look at the labyrinth that is Ikea. Later we will speak to Patricia Routledge, Country Communication Manager at IKEA AU & NZ about the specifics of how the team chose to market Ikea to Kiwis. 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 has been a tumultuous time since the collapse of the Du Val property development group. It was August last year we saw police raid a Remuera property – leaving with a number of assets owned by Charlotte and Kenyon Clarke. Since then it’s been a tsunami of court hearings, social media posts, and “he said she saids”. On Monday, a new podcast called *The Fall of the House of Du Val launches on iHeartRadio – or wherever you get your podcasts. But, today on The Front Page, host of the podcast, Business Desk’s Maria Slade is here to take us through the rise and fall of Du Val. 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 mistlestoe's hung, the bells are a'ringing And all through the malls Mariah Carey is singing It's the same old story, told year after year Of Santa and reindeer and widespread good cheer But look a bit closer, and you might see a crack In the stronghold St Nick has had since way back Where once stood a hero, red coat and beard white A sack on his sleigh promising Christmas delight Now stands a figure, towering six foot two tall With a coat of green fur, heart two sizes too small The Grinch who stole Christmas is making a play For the title of hero come this Yuletide day For poor old Saint Nick, this might not end well And to give us the lowdown is 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government’s released its plan to get our Defence infrastructure up to scratch – some of which hasn’t been touched in decades. The Defence Estate Portfolio sets out how $2.5 billion will be spent over the next 15 years. At the same time, the Future Naval Base Programme is pinned at $4b over 35 years. It’s being called a ‘generational investment in defence infrastructure’. But given the horror stories we’ve heard of black mould, infestations, and asbestos plaguing NZDF owned buildings – will this all be enough? Today on The Front Page, Associate Minister of Defence and Minister for Building and Construction, Chris Penk, is with us to dive into an area that’s been chronically underinvested for far too long. 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 Cook Islands’ flag has flown from more than a hundred oil tankers implicated in illicitly trading Russian and Iranian oil. A special Herald investigation has revealed that it’s sparked alarm from foreign governments – with New Zealand diplomats fielding concerns from Helsinki and London. Our Foreign Minister Winston Peters has labelled the issue “alarming and infuriating”. So, what is the link between the Baltic Sea and the Pacific? And how has this been allowed to happen? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business investigations reporter Matt Nippert is with us to explain what it all means – and why we should care. 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.

Our MPs have stakes in a combined $379 million of property in New Zealand. A Herald investigation has found that’s an average of $3.16 million across each of our 120 Members of Parliament. And despite the rumours, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon doesn’t top the list as the most lavish. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald data journalist Chris Knox is with us to dive into the numbers, 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former cabinet minister, Michael Wood, will be running for the Labour Party in next year’s general election. He’ll be running for the Mt Roskill seat. The former MP’s career came crashing down in 2023, after he was forced to resign as Minister for Transport after it was revealed he failed to disclose his airport shares. He resigned from his remaining ministerial portfolios after the discovery of additional shares held by his trust. Today on The Front Page, Michael Wood joins us to launch his comeback, what he’s learned, and how he’ll work to gain back the public’s confidence. 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 the streets of New York to around the world, the "Mamdani effect" is taking shape. Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani won the city’s mayoralty earlier this month, sparking a new era with an election turnout higher than any race in 50 years. But this isn’t just an American story. The energy around this movement, its bold ideas on justice, economics, and climate, is resonating with Gen Z far beyond the US. Victoria University of Wellington senior lecturer Dr Mona Kewel joins The Front Page to explain how Mamdani is flying in the face of reactionary Republican politicians we’ve seen rise to power in the US in recent years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United Kingdom is vowing to ‘restore order and control’ - through controversial, sweeping reform on the country’s asylum system. The new interpretations of human rights laws will make the UK less attractive for asylum seekers and make it easier to deport them. The tougher rules on refugee statuses mean people would need to reapply, and it would take 20 years for permanent settlement. Human rights lawyer and activist, Rêz Gardî, is a co-director and co-founder of the University of Auckland’s Centre for Asia Pacific Refugee Studies - Tāwharau Whakaumu. She joins The Front Page to discuss the landscape behind The UK's policy overhaul and whether New Zealand should be reconsidering its own approach to refugee status. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

15 years ago, 29 men went to work and never returned home. The Pike River mine explosion shocked New Zealand and the world, prompting three inquiries, a new regulator and new laws. But new research shows New Zealand workers are still more likely to die than those in Australia or Britain. The Public Health Communication Centre Aotearoa report said this country kills twice as many workers as Australia and four times as many as Britain, on a per capita basis. The number of work-related deaths has not substantially reduced since 2010. Victoria University of Wellington workplace health and safety lecturer Dr Chris Peace joins The Front Page to talk about our poor safety standings and what needs to change. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While the world ponders whether being a billionaire is ethical in these challenging times, another potential dilemma has arisen... trillionaires. Elon Musk is on track to become the world’s first trillion-dollar man after Tesla shareholders approved a pay package for the founder in the form of additional company shares over the next decade. CNN reported that the addition of 423.7 million shares over the next 10 years could equate to earning US$275 million ($484m) a day. It comes at a time when billionaire wealth has surged three times faster last year than the year before, while the number of people living in poverty has barely changed since 1990. Figures from Oxfam’s January global inequality report showed global billionaire wealth grew by $2t in 2024 alone. In Aotearoa New Zealand, billionaire wealth increased by $5b ($12m per day). In 2024, the number of billionaires rose to 2,769, up from 2,565 in 2023. Oxfam’s Nick Henry joins The Front Page to discuss wealth generated by accumulating the benefits of work that other people do.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been revealed that Kiwis lost a record $3 billion to scams this year. That’s a 30% increase from $2.3 billion last year. Netsafe and the Global Anti-Scam Alliance ‘State of Scams in New Zealand’ report shows that scammers are getting more sophisticated – and victims are facing persistent barriers to reporting and recovering their losses. So, how should we protect ourselves and who should be held accountable? Today on The Front Page, Netsafe’s Sean Lyons is with us to break down the latest figures, and discuss how New Zealand can better prepare itself for the evolving world of scams. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For weeks now headlines have been peppered with Te Pāti Māori’s infighting. The crescendo came when the party’s National Council opted to expel MPs Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Tākuta Ferris from Parliament. Both have called the move ‘unconstitutional’ - they’ll sit as independents in the Beehive for now. But, what’s lead to this very public spat and what’s next for the party ahead Election 2026? Today on The Front Page, University of Auckland professor Jason Mika 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been revealed that Police ignored sex allegations against a former top cop, and instead prosecuted a woman for ‘revenge emails’. The woman had emailed police, politicians, and newsrooms accusing former deputy police commissioner Jevon McSkimming of being a sexual predator. The police watchdog has released a scathing 135-page report into how the allegations were treated, and how the “ambitions of a senior police officer were put above the interests of a vulnerable woman”. Police Commissioner Richard Chambers said she was “ignored and badly let down”. He has said it makes for “appalling reading” and the conduct of the former top brass is “inexcusable”. He was briefed about the situation just two days before he stepped into the top role. During the course of the investigation, detectives discovered McSkimming had used his work devices to search for pornography, including bestiality and child sex exploitation material, for at least five years. The 52-year-old resigned in disgrace and was later charged with possession of objectionable material. He’s pleaded guilty last week and will be sentenced next month. This whole ordeal has been indisputably damaging to one of the most important institutions in our country. Later we’ll speak to HELP Auckland’s executive director Kathryn McPhillips about how to support anyone who has experienced sexual abuse. But first, someone who knows all too well what it’s like to step up to those in power is Louise Nicholas. She alleged police officers raped her as a teen in the 80s, this resulted in criminal trials, a Commission of Inquiry, and an officer being jailed for attempting to pervert the course of justice. She is a campaigner for victims of sexual assault, and joins us now 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.

There have been no official talks yet about compensation for the complainant against Jevon McSkimming. The former Deputy Police Commissioner is awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to having child sexual exploitation and bestiality material on his work devices. A scathing watchdog report has found some of the nation's highest-ranking officers ignored a young woman's anonymous complaints against McSkimming. Instead, she was prosecuted for digital harassment. The handling of the case has been called ‘appalling’ by the now Police Commissioner Richard Chambers and Police Minister Mark Mitchell. Today on The Front Page, my colleague Herald senior reporter Jared Savage is with us to take us behind the scenes of how this case unfolded, and how the sordid details came to light. 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.

Remember when we were meant to be smoke free by 2025? New Zealand’s goal to have fewer than 5% of people smoking by the end of the year looks unlikely to be met. The target was introduced in 2010 – and while smoking has dropped significantly since then (from 16.4% in 2011 to 6.9% in 2023-24) there are still hundreds of thousands of people smoking daily. In December 2022, New Zealand enacted world-leading tobacco control legislation – essentially creating a whole generation who’ll never be able to buy a pack of ciggies. But, with that plan up in smoke – what next? Today on The Front Page, Hāpai te Hauora chief operating officer Jason Alexander is with us to discuss how we might be able to reach our goal of being smoke free. 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.

Mark Mitchell has heralded the government’s promise to be tough on crime. He’s been incredibly clear from the get-go that his primary goal is to make New Zealand an uncomfortable place for gangs to operate. He holds five portfolios: Police, Corrections, Emergency Management and Recovery, Ethnic Communities, and Sports and Recreation. So, how does an MP with so many hats feel about how his government has tackled the big issues? Today on The Front Page, Mitchell joins us to talk cops, corrections, and communities. 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 30th UN climate conference will begin this week. Nations will gather in Belem, Brazil for COP30 – and while the Trump administration isn’t intending to send anyone, the US could still become the thorn in any deals side. So, as the world’s brightest climate minds converge on the city that sits on the outskirts of the Amazon rainforest – experts are asking whether anything substantial will come from these negotiations. Today on The Front Page, University of Otago associate professor Daniel Kingston is with us to discuss how important COP is, and why we should care. 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.

Bees are tiny but mighty players in New Zealand’s environment and economy. They pollinate our gardens, native plants, and crucial crops, supporting biodiversity and food production across the country. But, an invasive threat is looming – the queen yellow-legged hornet. Since June, Biosecurity New Zealand has confirmed several detections of these pests across Auckland. Today on The Front Page, Mahurangi Honey’s Peter Johnston is with us to chat local honey making, and why bees are so important. 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.

Just over seventy years after Sir Edmund Hillary first ascended Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak is grappling with new ethical dilemmas. From crowded summit attempts and ecological strain, to debates about climber preparedness and the treatment of Sherpas, Everest’s story today is as complex as ever. The Himalayan Trust, founded by Sir Ed, continues to support local communities at the heart of these challenges. His grandson, Alexander Hillary, now runs the organisation, and joins us on The Front Page to discuss what respecting Everest means, and whether we’ve lost 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.

A chance for New Zealand to lead change the world in ‘ethical investing’. As of last year, more than half a billion dollars of New Zealanders’ KiwiSaver and other retail investments were lent to countries on ‘high alert’ for human rights violations. The new paper from Motu Research urges fund managers and industry bodies to lift standards. But what does ‘ethical investing’ mean? And how can you tell how your funds are being used? Today on The Front Page, lead researcher Anne-Marie Brook is with us to break down the paper, and how we might be able to be socially responsible with our investments. 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 that time of year again, where we debate whether New Zealanders should be allowed to let off fireworks. Fire and Emergency New Zealand is among those opposed, saying they know first-hand how dangerous fireworks can be. Last year was the worst year for fireworks-related fires since 2017, with 166 unwanted fires. Firework sales are restricted to a four-day period from November 2 to 5 each year – but there are growing calls for that to be scrapped. First on The Front Page, Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s readiness and recovery national manager, Adrian Nacey, is with us. Later we’ll chat to the SPCA’s Scientific Officer, Dr Alison Vaughan on how to protect our animals from 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s Privacy Commissioner has issued new rules around the automated use of biometrics. Biometric processing is the use of tech, like facial recognition, to collect and process people’s biometric information. The Code comes into force on 3 November 2025, but agencies already using biometrics have until 3 August 2026, to align themselves with the new rules. Today on The Front Page, Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster is with us, to take us through what all of this means, and how we can protect ourselves. 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.

Our Prime Minister has met and dined with one of the most powerful people in the world - Donald Trump. Christopher Luxon and Trump spoke at an APEC dinner last night. It's expected to be one of the most significant meetings Luxon will have at the economic conference, despite the two not having a formal bilateral. The summit is straight off the back of one with the Association of South East Asian Nations, or ASEAN. Newstalk ZB political reporter Azaria Howell has been travelling alongside Luxon, she 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand may be on the cusp of another measles outbreak. There are ten known cases: One of those cases came from overseas, and the other nine were contracted locally. Health NZ has said the risk of further measles cases, contacts, and exposures across the country remains ‘very high’. The confirmation of new cases unconnected to international travel though has experts worried. Today on The Front Page, University of Canterbury senior lecturer in epidemiology, Anna Howe, is with us to discuss what 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labour has announced what some are describing a “watered down” version of a Capital Gains Tax. This targeted CGT would affect profit made after July 2027 from selling a commercial or residential property, excluding the family home. Leader Chris Hipkins promises nine out of 10 Kiwis won’t pay tax on what they own, and it’ll allow everyone to get three free doctors visits a year. On the flip side, National’s calling it an “attack on investment and savings” - with Finance Minister Nicola Willis saying it would “put New Zealand’s economic recovery at risk”. Today on The Front Page, Infometrics economist Brad Olsen is with us to dive into the details of Labour’s latest pitch to the public.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research suggests our drug laws are stuck in the 70s – and that Kiwis want to see a more health-based approach to tackling the country’s drug issues. This month marks 50 years since government passed the Misuse of Drugs Act. The Helen Clark Foundation and University of Otago researchers estimate that drug harm costs close to $2 billion annually – at least half a billion alone on responding to drug use. Today on The Front Page, lead researcher Dr Rose Crossin is with us to take us through New Zealanders’ changing attitudes towards drug 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.

New Zealand’s been experiencing some wild weather this week. Red wind warnings were issued for much of Canterbury, Marlborough, Wellington and southern Wairarapa as at yesterday afternoon. Flights and ferries were cancelled and tens of thousands of households have been without power. Meanwhile, strong winds had been hampering firefighting efforts in several parts of the country. So, is this usual for this time of year? And how long will we have to wait for some sunny days ahead? Today on The Front Page, NIWA principal scientist Chris Brandolino is with us to take us through what’s causing this stormy weather, and whether there is light at the end of the tunnel. 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.

Up to 100-thousand union members across health and education are on strike today. The action prompted Public Service Minister Judith Collins, to pen a letter to New Zealanders - saying the strikes are more about politics than outcomes. The ‘mega strike’ is being tipped to be the largest in our history. So, as nurses, doctors, and teachers take to the picket line, we’ll take a look back at industrial action in Aotearoa, and whether it’s all actually worth it. Today on The Front Page, Victoria University of Wellington emeritus professor Gordon Anderson, is with us to discuss the history of labour laws in 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.

In seven minutes, thieves entered the Louvre in Paris and made off with eight “priceless” jewels. The necklaces, earrings, brooches, and crowns has belonged to an array of 19th century royals, including Napoleon’s wife Marie-Amelie, and empress Eugenie, married to Napoleon III. The gang were organised, professionals, and had clearly scoped the world’s most visited gallery and knew exactly what they were after. But, after you’ve jumped the hurdles of security – what do you do with this highly recognisable royal regalia? Today on The Front Page, art historian, author, and curator Dr Penelope Jackson is with us to take a look at heists, and whether it’s really like the movies. 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 has risen even further. Latest Stats NZ figures show inflation reached 3% in the year to September. Economists had tipped to hit the top end of the Reserve Bank’s target band of between 1 and 3%. But, some say the period of circa 3% could be short-lived. At the same time, Labour has broken its silence on what it thinks will help the economy. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann is with us to break down what all of this means for you, and your wallet. 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.

This week will see mass walk outs across the country as 100,000 teachers and medical staff go on strike. This Thursday, October 23, 11,500 Allied Health workers will walk off the job, as well as: 35-hundred mental health and public health nurses and mental health assistants, more than 36,000 nurses, midwives, health care assistants, and 400 nurses and health care assistants working for Corrections. On top of all this, in a historic first, primary school teachers, primary principals, school support staff, and Ministry of Education specialist staff as well as secondary and area schoolteachers will all strike together. Today on The Front Page, PPTA President Chris Abercrombie is with us to take us through what needs to change in our 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Prime Minister Jim Bolger has died aged 90. He became the 35th Prime Minister after leading National to a landslide victory in 1990. Bolger was ousted by his party caucus in 1997 and replaced with Jenny Shipley. Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB Senior Political Correspondent Barry Soper is with us to take us behind the scenes of Bolger’s government, and what his legacy will be. 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 details have emerged about what could be happening behind closed doors at Gloriavale. Authorities have been quietly been involved in yet another investigation there – with the Children’s Minister and Oranga Tamariki both involved. This time, a “mass allegation investigation” relates to concerns that parents were taught to cover the mouths of children and babies to stop them from crying. NZ Herald senior investigative reporter, Michael Morrah, has been digging into this, and he 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emotional scenes in the Middle East as hostages reunite with their families across Israel. Busloads of Palestinian prisoners have also arrived to large crowds in Gaza in an exchange brokered by US President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Trump and other world leaders have signed a ceasefire deal during a summit in Egypt. So, could this all bring lasting peace to the region? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago international relations professor Robert Patman is with us to discuss whether this actually is, as Trump says, the “historic dawn of a new Middle East”. 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.

Microsoft is ending its support for the Windows 10 operating system from today. It means computers still running this system might be at risk, given security updates will stop. And while the company is urging users to upgrade for free to Windows 11, not all devices will be able to support that. At the same time, there are growing concerns about the surge in electronic waste. Today on The Front Page, Consumer NZ product test writer Nick Gelling is with us to take us through what happens to your old devices. 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.

Artificial intelligence will likely end up touching every aspect of our days – but what about our love lives? It’s a growing trend, with men and women seeking companionship with a chatbot – some experts saying it could soon become normal to have an AI partner. This kind of online world has remained largely hidden from the mainstream until recently. But, a lack of regulation in New Zealand at the moment means that children as young as 13 can spend hours chatting with their new AI friends. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald reporter Eva de Jong is with us to explain this worrying trend. 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.

Today is World Homeless Day – where organisations around the globe shed light on the issue. Right now, more than 2% of New Zealanders are without a home. Stats NZ figures show more than 112,000 people are now severely housing deprived across New Zealand. In Auckland, there’s been a 53 per cent increase in rough sleeping since late last year. Manaaki Rangitahi aims to end youth homelessness in Aotearoa New Zealand. CEO Bianca Johanson is with us today on The Front Page, to discuss how – as a country – we can make this happen. 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.

Local government is how communities democratically decide what happens in their backyards. The park on the corner, what day our bins go out, your neighbours making too much noise, how much you pay in rates, whether your dog can enjoy the beach off lead. Every day we encounter a council decision whether we know it or not. So, why is voter turnout always so low? There are 78 local authorities in New Zealand: 11 regional councils, 12 city councils, 54 district councils, and Auckland Council (which combined eight former councils in the big Super City amalgamation of 2010). That means there are a lot of roles up for grabs. To dive into what you need to know about this years local elections, today on The Front Page, we have Newstalk ZB news director and local government reporter Michael Sergel. 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 Reserve Bank is expected to cut the Official Cash Rate today, but how deeply it will cut remains to be seen. Markets are pricing in the cut as a certainty, but the debate is now on how big it will be. So, what could a cut mean for mortgage holders and the average Kiwi? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann is with us to dive into the Reserve Bank’s upcoming decision, and what’s been happening behind closed doors. 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 been more than two years since Cyclone Gabrielle and the Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods. Nineteen people died. A three-week long inquest has begun in Hastings District Court, examining how prepared we were for the cyclone, how warnings were issued, and the emergency response. Today on The Front Page, Open Justice reporter Ric Stevens joins us to take us through what we know so far, and what we hope to learn from these tragic 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.