Podcasts about The New Zealand Herald

The Government's pushing ahead with banning social media for under-16s. It mirrors rules that took effect in Australia last year - requiring the likes of Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to bring in stronger age verification. If they don't, the social media giants could face fines of up to 10% of their global revenue. But coalition partners Act and NZ First both agree to disagree with it - and Christopher Luxon has admitted the bill won't get a look-in before the election. So, what's the point? Will these measures even work? And what are the risks of getting it wrong? Today on The Front Page, Tech Users Association of New Zealand CEO Craig Young is with us to break down the bill, how age checks would actually work, and what we can learn from overseas experience. 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.

National is committing to no new taxes if re-elected – but the jury is still out over whether that means no tinkering to existing taxes. This means the party is scrapping both a bed tax and bank tax – something that's disappointed Mayors in tourism hotspots around the country. Meanwhile, Labour's banking on its capital gains tax to get us back to surplus by 2029/30. They released their fiscal strategy at the weekend, targeting spending and revenue at around 33% of GDP - and net debt at 20% "over time". So, what do these competing approaches mean for the economy, and for taxpayers. Today on The Front Page, independent economist Cameron Bagrie is with us to explain who stands to win or lose, and what voters should be looking for in the numbers before election day. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Severe respiratory illness rates are now the highest they've been in the last decade, mostly because of the flu. It comes as ambulance services struggle to meet demand, and Health NZ urges people to save emergency departments for emergencies. RNZ reported this week that hospitals have even created dedicated flu wards and some elective surgery is being cancelled as influenza A hits the health system. So, why has this flu season been so late, so sharp, and so severe – and what does it mean for our hospitals, our most vulnerable, and the rest of winter? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago epidemiologist Professor Michael Baker is with us to break down what’s driving this surge and what all of us can do to stay well and keep pressure off the health 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.

The Mount Maunganui landslide has been described as "preventable". A damning review into the disaster has revealed a litany of failures by authorities who “missed several opportunities” to evacuate campers to safety. Six people died after the slip crashed into the campground on January 22. It's now been revealed that over decades, "one consultant after another" warned Tauranga City Council of the risks at the holiday spot at the bottom of the mountain. Today on The Front Page, University of Canterbury senior lecturer in disaster risk and resilience, Dr Tom Robinson is with us to take us through what happened, who is to blame, and what 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.

New Zealand’s birth rate stats just keep getting worse... The latest show ‘natural population growth’ has fallen to 18,700 for the year to June – the lowest it’s been since WWII. Births are at their lowest since 2003. So should we throw money at people to have babies, or are there some other options on the cards? And how bad is it really? Today on The Front Page, Infometrics principal economist and lead demographer Nick Brunsdon is with us to break it all down. 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 development in the Middle East, with US President Donald Trump turning on a key US ally. He’s threatened to bomb Oman if it interferes in the Strait of Hormuz. It’s all while a 60-day ceasefire with Iran expires – and officials say that there’s been very little diplomatic progress to reopen the key waterway. So, why is Trump lashing out at a key ally? What does this latest stalemate mean for the rest of us? And at this point, what is and should be the US’ main priority? Today on The Front Page, University of Waikato international law professor Al Gillespie is with us to break it all down. 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.

Kiwis are constantly wondering why their groceries are so expensive. The Green Party is the latest to promise a fix in the way of a members bill aimed at banning price gouging by the supermarket duopoly, which has a whopping 82% market share. New rules would aim to prohibit supermarkets from charging prices that are excessive when compared to the cost of supplying groceries. Breaches could see a company fined up to $10 million or 10% of turnover. But, what constitutes “excessive”? And how would it be policed? Today on The Front Page, Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick is with us to tell us how it would work. 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 drawn-out employment legal dispute, the sale of one of the country’s top media companies, fears AI could take newsroom jobs, and RNZ planning to cut roles. The Kamahl Santamaria saga continues as the former broadcaster and TVNZ head to court next week. Meanwhile, do the Aussies have what it takes to shake up our media landscape? And will AI take over our newsrooms? All this while RNZ prepares to cut up to 30 roles as part of a major cost-cutting move. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald’s Media Insider and editor-at-large Shayne Currie joins us to talk about the changing tides and what the future looks like. 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.

Tonight on The Huddle, lawyer Liam Hehir and senior New Zealand Herald correspondent Katie Bradford joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! The Opportunity Party has surged well above the 5 percent threshold, potentially giving it a decisive role in forming the next Government. Was Luxon wrong to rule them out? What could the next couple of months look like? Is it wrong to be angry with Erica Stanford and Chris Bishop over the leadership challenge? Did Chris Penk have to go? What will this whole saga mean for National's political future? Do we need more transport funding for the South Island? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government's working through merger proposals from councils around the country. City and district councils were given until this week to pitch plans to create larger unitary councils, to replace existing local and regional councils. Approved plans are due to be signed off next year and take effect after local elections in 2028. So who’s likely to merge with who? What regions are deeply split? How will it all work out? And most importantly, how will it affect you? Today on The Front Page, Gisborne Mayor and Local Government New Zealand president Rehette Stoltz is with us to breakdown what it all means and 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.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Wednesday, 12 August, 2026, Christopher Luxon survives another challenge from within on his leadership. We have analysis and commentary from former National Minister Maurice Williamson and New Zealand Herald political editor Thomas Coughlan. On The Huddle, Josie Pagani and Trish Sherson say Luxon should have stepped down. Christchurch City Councillor Celeste Donovan tells us why a caravan park in the red zone has got the green light. And Eden Park chief Nick Sautner on the chances of getting the NRL grand final in 2028. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is staying in the top job. He's emerged from another confidence vote with the support of his caucus. National MPs were summoned to Wellington for an urgent meeting this morning - after speculation about a potential coup. The meeting ran for three hours. But, questions remain... What happened behind closed doors? What will happen to the detractors? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior correspondent Katie Bradford joins us from Wellington to break it all down. 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.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Tuesday, 11 August, 2026, will Christopher Luxon stay or go? We've expert analysis and commentary from New Zealand Herald political editor Thomas Coughlan, senior political correspondent Barry Soper and The Huddle with Jordan Williams and Jack Tame. A tax expert explains why New Zealanders owe the IRD more than $9 billion in tax. And Auckland University professor Peter Shepherd on developing a weight-loss drug where you don't suppress your appetite and can still have a tipple. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tomorrow morning, the All Blacks are set to take on the Sharks in the second match of the Greatest Rivalry Tour. After an error-filled clash against the Stormers, they will want to show some better form with the first test against the Springboks looming next Sunday morning. Gregor Paul is a New Zealand Herald rugby writer currently in South Africa, he joined D'Arcy to discuss. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It feels like Auckland is entering its big city era. New Zealand’s largest transport infrastructure project ever, the City Rail Link will open to passengers on September 13. It’s being touted as being truly transformative for the country’s biggest city ... a city that is rapidly growing. And that’s partly thanks to the Fast-Track scheme – which has meant developers don’t need to jump through as many hoops to get things moving. But, at what cost? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald property editor Anne Gibson is with us to unpack what this all means for Auckland’s future. 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.

Unemployment has risen again – and it’s worse than everyone expected. Stats NZ figures show the unemployment rate increased to 5.6 percent in the June quarter. That's up from 5.4 percent in the March quarter and it's slighter higher than most economists were predicting. So, what does that mean? Should we panic? Or is this just part and parcel of an economy in recovery? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann is with us to break down the numbers and what it means for our future. 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 Prime Minister is in damage control mode after telling struggling business owners in Rotorua to “be adult”. Christopher Luxon made the remarks at a business event, and they’ve sparked a fierce backlash. He’s since had to apologise after being labelled out of touch and patronising. So, is this a gaffe that’ll keep haunting him, or just a bad week in a challenging political environment? And what does it say about how the Government sees its role in supporting or stepping back from struggling businesses? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald Chief Political Reporter Jamie Ensor joins us to break down how National’s caucus is reacting, and what 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.

There were two days to Christmas and Lewis felt like everything was spinning out of control. He wondered what he would say to the judge this time. His client, Rikihana, was already on multiple shoplifting charges. What's a few more? Lewis thought. These supermarkets were still making a killing. It's late 2020. Rikihana Wallace, a prolific shoplifter of no fixed abode, is back in prison with little chance of bail. Nathan Morley, unemployed, is facing burglary charges and hoping his other, as yet undetected, offences don't catch up with him. Lewis Skerrett, their overstretched legal aid lawyer, is trying to do right by them both. The culmination of over two years of field research and hundreds of hours of interviews, The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City (Bridget Williams Books, 2026) follows these three Hutt Valley men through courtrooms, prison, hospital, rehab, boarding houses and welfare offices. Told largely in verbatim dialogue, this up-close and personal account brings the realities of the New Zealand criminal justice system to life through the voices of those who experience it first-hand. Watch the book trailer here  Asher Emanuel is a writer and lawyer based in Wellington. His exposure to the criminal justice system began when he was a judges' clerk at the Wellington High Court after graduating from law school in 2015. He later worked as an investigator for the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and, as a lawyer, has assisted several government inquiries. His writing on justice and policy issues has appeared in The Spinoff, the New Zealand Herald, and specialist publications, and he is a former editor of Policy.nz, an election policy website. He began work on his first book, The Valley, in 2018 supported by grants from the Michael & Suzanne Borrin Foundation. Asher now works as a civil legal aid lawyer focusing on public law and human rights cases. He is a longstanding member of the executive of the Aotearoa Legal Workers' Union. Asher grew up in Auckland before moving to Wellington where he studied law and English literature. Ed Amon has a Master of Indigenous Studies and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. He is a writer and a Stand-up Comedian. His main interests are indigenous studies, politics, history, and cricket. Follow him on twitter @edamoned or email him at edamonnz@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

There were two days to Christmas and Lewis felt like everything was spinning out of control. He wondered what he would say to the judge this time. His client, Rikihana, was already on multiple shoplifting charges. What's a few more? Lewis thought. These supermarkets were still making a killing. It's late 2020. Rikihana Wallace, a prolific shoplifter of no fixed abode, is back in prison with little chance of bail. Nathan Morley, unemployed, is facing burglary charges and hoping his other, as yet undetected, offences don't catch up with him. Lewis Skerrett, their overstretched legal aid lawyer, is trying to do right by them both. The culmination of over two years of field research and hundreds of hours of interviews, The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City (Bridget Williams Books, 2026) follows these three Hutt Valley men through courtrooms, prison, hospital, rehab, boarding houses and welfare offices. Told largely in verbatim dialogue, this up-close and personal account brings the realities of the New Zealand criminal justice system to life through the voices of those who experience it first-hand. Watch the book trailer here  Asher Emanuel is a writer and lawyer based in Wellington. His exposure to the criminal justice system began when he was a judges' clerk at the Wellington High Court after graduating from law school in 2015. He later worked as an investigator for the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and, as a lawyer, has assisted several government inquiries. His writing on justice and policy issues has appeared in The Spinoff, the New Zealand Herald, and specialist publications, and he is a former editor of Policy.nz, an election policy website. He began work on his first book, The Valley, in 2018 supported by grants from the Michael & Suzanne Borrin Foundation. Asher now works as a civil legal aid lawyer focusing on public law and human rights cases. He is a longstanding member of the executive of the Aotearoa Legal Workers' Union. Asher grew up in Auckland before moving to Wellington where he studied law and English literature. Ed Amon has a Master of Indigenous Studies and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. He is a writer and a Stand-up Comedian. His main interests are indigenous studies, politics, history, and cricket. Follow him on twitter @edamoned or email him at edamonnz@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/law

There were two days to Christmas and Lewis felt like everything was spinning out of control. He wondered what he would say to the judge this time. His client, Rikihana, was already on multiple shoplifting charges. What's a few more? Lewis thought. These supermarkets were still making a killing. It's late 2020. Rikihana Wallace, a prolific shoplifter of no fixed abode, is back in prison with little chance of bail. Nathan Morley, unemployed, is facing burglary charges and hoping his other, as yet undetected, offences don't catch up with him. Lewis Skerrett, their overstretched legal aid lawyer, is trying to do right by them both. The culmination of over two years of field research and hundreds of hours of interviews, The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City (Bridget Williams Books, 2026) follows these three Hutt Valley men through courtrooms, prison, hospital, rehab, boarding houses and welfare offices. Told largely in verbatim dialogue, this up-close and personal account brings the realities of the New Zealand criminal justice system to life through the voices of those who experience it first-hand. Watch the book trailer here  Asher Emanuel is a writer and lawyer based in Wellington. His exposure to the criminal justice system began when he was a judges' clerk at the Wellington High Court after graduating from law school in 2015. He later worked as an investigator for the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and, as a lawyer, has assisted several government inquiries. His writing on justice and policy issues has appeared in The Spinoff, the New Zealand Herald, and specialist publications, and he is a former editor of Policy.nz, an election policy website. He began work on his first book, The Valley, in 2018 supported by grants from the Michael & Suzanne Borrin Foundation. Asher now works as a civil legal aid lawyer focusing on public law and human rights cases. He is a longstanding member of the executive of the Aotearoa Legal Workers' Union. Asher grew up in Auckland before moving to Wellington where he studied law and English literature. Ed Amon has a Master of Indigenous Studies and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. He is a writer and a Stand-up Comedian. His main interests are indigenous studies, politics, history, and cricket. Follow him on twitter @edamoned or email him at edamonnz@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/australian-and-new-zealand-studies

There were two days to Christmas and Lewis felt like everything was spinning out of control. He wondered what he would say to the judge this time. His client, Rikihana, was already on multiple shoplifting charges. What's a few more? Lewis thought. These supermarkets were still making a killing. It's late 2020. Rikihana Wallace, a prolific shoplifter of no fixed abode, is back in prison with little chance of bail. Nathan Morley, unemployed, is facing burglary charges and hoping his other, as yet undetected, offences don't catch up with him. Lewis Skerrett, their overstretched legal aid lawyer, is trying to do right by them both. The culmination of over two years of field research and hundreds of hours of interviews, The Valley: Crime and Punishment in a New Zealand City (Bridget Williams Books, 2026) follows these three Hutt Valley men through courtrooms, prison, hospital, rehab, boarding houses and welfare offices. Told largely in verbatim dialogue, this up-close and personal account brings the realities of the New Zealand criminal justice system to life through the voices of those who experience it first-hand. Watch the book trailer here  Asher Emanuel is a writer and lawyer based in Wellington. His exposure to the criminal justice system began when he was a judges' clerk at the Wellington High Court after graduating from law school in 2015. He later worked as an investigator for the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security and, as a lawyer, has assisted several government inquiries. His writing on justice and policy issues has appeared in The Spinoff, the New Zealand Herald, and specialist publications, and he is a former editor of Policy.nz, an election policy website. He began work on his first book, The Valley, in 2018 supported by grants from the Michael & Suzanne Borrin Foundation. Asher now works as a civil legal aid lawyer focusing on public law and human rights cases. He is a longstanding member of the executive of the Aotearoa Legal Workers' Union. Asher grew up in Auckland before moving to Wellington where he studied law and English literature. Ed Amon has a Master of Indigenous Studies and is a PhD Candidate at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. He is a writer and a Stand-up Comedian. His main interests are indigenous studies, politics, history, and cricket. Follow him on twitter @edamoned or email him at edamonnz@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Act wants to give teachers the legal power to remove disruptive students from the classroom. Staff would be able to use “reasonable force” to do so – and there’d be a mandatory stand-down or suspension for any students who assaulted another student, teacher, or staff member. Parents would be required to attend a meeting – if they don’t rock up, they could be fined $300 for a first offence, rising to $3000 for repeat offenses. But just how big is the problem here? Are classrooms really this disrupted and would these changes actually help? Today on The Front Page, Post Primary Teachers’ Association president Chris Abercrombie is with us to unpack what’s happening in schools, and whether this plan would make a difference or risk making things worse. 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 a battle of the islands to become New Zealand’s economic engine room. All eight South Island Chambers of Commerce have launched a joint election manifesto highlighting their $100 billion contribution to the economy. They’re calling for more investment and productivity with the goal of lifting South Island GDP per capita to $130,000 by 2035. Representing around 7000 businesses, it’s the first time they’ve all come together to push for political parties to pay closer attention to the south. Today on The Front Page, Business Canterbury CEO Leeann Watson is with us to explain why the South Island wants to move ahead of the national average, not just keep up, and what it will take to get there. 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.

Go onto any parents group in the country and you’ll find comments about arbitrary school uniform rules. Socks falling down, no scarves in class, skirts instead of shorts, and no t-shirts underneath despite not seeing them – and that’s just what our team has seen. And that’s all before we talk about the costs that come with a compulsory uniform. The Act Party is campaigning to make school uniforms more affordable, saying some families are spending well over $1000 a year. The University of Otago’s Dr Johanna Reidy has been involved in research to find out if uniforms had an impact on education and health. 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’s superannuation problem is something that constantly rears its head. Whether it’s abolishing MPs’ gold-plated super scheme, if we should introduce means testing, or heighten the retirement age – one thing’s always clear... our status quo is untenable. The annual cost of NZ Super has already risen from less than $20 billion in 2023 to $24.7b this financial year, and is forecast to pass $30b in 2030. Meanwhile, the annual superbill for older migrants has hit a billion dollars – five years after Parliament tightened eligibility. So, what are the real pressure points in the system and how politically realistic are any of the fixes? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths is with us to unpack the numbers, the politics, and what changes might actually be on the table. 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.

91 petrol is set to stay below $3 a litre for the fourth week in a row, and that means the $50 weekly fuel payment for working families should be coming to an end. The Government has always said any support would be timely, temporary and targeted — but with so much volatility in the Middle East, should it be extended? Finance Minister Nicola Willis has said she’ll take advice to Cabinet next week about extending the payment. But, there’s also the argument that this is all part of a bigger picture: New Zealand lagging behind other countries on EVs, solar and batteries. Today on The Front Page, journalist and publisher of The Kākā, Bernard Hickey joins us to unpack whether the fuel support should continue, and what New Zealand risks if it keeps moving too slowly on electrification. 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 National Party has promised to gradually extend paid parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks by 2029 if re-elected. That would see the entitlement lift to 27 weeks in next year’s Budget, before rising again in the following two Budgets. The announcement came days after NZ First candidate Stuart Nash resigned his candidacy after calling National MP Katie Nimon lazy for taking leave after having a baby. But, some commentators have said the plan doesn’t go far enough. Today on The Front Page, military veteran, leadership expert and founder of #workschoolhours movement, Dr Ellen Joan Ford joins us to unpack what the policy could mean for families, employers, and the wider debate about who should pay for 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.

The conflict in the Middle East is widening fast. Yemen's Houthi rebels have targeted Saudi Arabian ships in the Red Sea - threatening to cut off a crucial route for the kingdom's oil exports. The price of oil has surpassed 100 US-dollars a barrel for the first time since May. Meanwhile the US has carried out its 12th consecutive night of strikes on Iran. So, what’s really going on here? Is this the start of a broader regional crisis, or are we seeing a dangerous standoff that could yet be contained? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago international relations professor Robert Patman is with us to unpack the stakes for global shipping, energy markets, and the risk of further escalation in the 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.

Despite attracting its biggest television audience in years, the ANZ Premiership is set to record a significant loss of around $3.7 million in 2026, casting further doubt over the future of New Zealand's domestic netball competition. Netball New Zealand board chair Alastair Carruthers said the shortfall would be covered by the organisation's cash reserves, but warned that approach could not continue. Speaking on Newstalk ZB's Mike Hosking Breakfast, Carruthers admitted the loss would be hard to cover, adding that the overall deficit for Netball New Zealand would be far greater. “It's going to be hard to cover,” Carruthers said. “We do have reserves sufficient to deal with it this year. “The board last year, when committing to the third year of this this premiership, knew that it had reserves that that would cover the loss, but [the loss] is bigger than we expected. “I think it's important to note that also this year Netball New Zealand in total is likely to run up a loss greater than $3.7m. It's going to be close to $6m. Reserves will cover this year. “I don't think next year is going to be easy to cover at that level from our reserves position, so we need to start redesigning our business and redesigning the way that this competition is played.” The loss is part of the fallout after it was revealed Netball New Zealand emailed coaches and staff at the Northern Stars, Mainland Tactix and Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic telling them their contracts cannot be extended at this stage. The three franchises are all run by Netball New Zealand, while the Northern Mystics, Central Pulse and Southern Steel are run by their respective netball zones. Carruthers is adamant the governing body remained committed to maintaining a strong domestic competition while ensuring the long-term health of the sport. With that in mind, Netball New Zealand has agreed to change the eligibility requirements for Silver Ferns selection, following discussions with the Players Association with an eye on the 2027 Netball World Cup. Players who choose to sign with overseas clubs will now remain eligible for Silver Ferns selection. The change takes effect immediately for the current selection cycle and will continue for the duration of any multi-year overseas contract. Netball NZ Board Chair Alastair Carruthers. Photo / Photosport “Any player is welcome to play anywhere in the world if they wish to and will still be eligible for selection for the for the Silver Ferns,” Carruthers said. “We did that because while there is uncertainty about what form of domestic competition we can offer at home, people need freedom of choice and the opportunity to keep working and the opportunity to keep playing at an elite level.” He said any future model would continue to prioritise a high-quality domestic competition, alongside supporting community netball. The big financial loss comes despite the ANZ Premiership attracting 1.05 million unique television viewers on TVNZ this season, excluding audiences who watched live or on demand via TVNZ. Figures obtained by the Herald show that represents a 16% increase on 2025 and a 64% increase since 2024. The average live television audience for an ANZ Premiership fixture was 51,800, a 32% increase on 2025 for the average number of people watching a game live on TV2. The grand final between the Northern Mystics and Southern Steel saw a 60% increase in viewership, with more than 120,000 New Zealanders watching live – the most ever. Before that, 82,159 viewers had tuned in for the elimination final, 25,742 more than last year. The overall average attendance for the ANZ Premiership is up 3.2%, following a 15% jump in 2024. In total, 70,236 fans attended games, including the finals. Social media presence has also increased with the official ANZ Premiership pages (not including teams) having seen a 33% increase in followers, totalling 166,500. Carruthers expects discussions to continue with broadcasters for at least a few more months. Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand’s housing market remains firmly in buyers’ favour. Sales activity is continuing to weaken and property values are showing little sign of a broad-based recovery. But, while first-home buyers remain active, investors are pulling back, with some wary of what a shifting political and tax environment could mean for returns. So, what’s really going on here? Is this just a subdued patch, or a market that’s lost its heat for longer? Today on The Front Page, Cotality NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson is with us to unpack where housing stands right now, and what it all means for buyers, sellers and investors. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Fast-track Approvals Act has been in force since December 2024, and it was sold as a simpler, faster way to get projects moving. Since then, it’s been tied to everything from new homes to aquaculture, farming projects, roads and public transport, but it’s also drawn plenty of criticism along the way. NZ First is still pushing for Ministers to have the final say on what gets approved, despite that idea facing strong pushback through the select committee process. And now we’re seeing some of the real-world fallout, with projects like a controversial 1200-home development in Ōrewa raising questions about infrastructure, cost, and who ultimately pays. Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald senior correspondent Katie Bradford is with us to unpack 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.

Inflation has hit 4.1% - the highest level in more than two years. Economists had expected it surge to somewhere between 3.9 and 4.1 percent. However, the end result is well below some previous forecasts, which reached 4.9%. If we ignored the surging fuel prices, Westpac economists reckon inflation would be about 2.8 percent. So what does this actually mean for the cost of living, for interest rates, and for the story of the New Zealand economy in 2026? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann is with us to unpack how we got to 4.1%, what’s really driving the numbers, and what comes next for households, businesses, and the path back to stable prices. 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 idea of a celebrity running for office is nothing new. All over the world, ex TV stars, movie icons, and comedians try their hand at a new role: politician. This week, Election 2026 has been rocked by the announcement that ex-broadcaster Paul Henry will be entering the fray – running for the Act Party. There have been countless headlines, interviews, and analysis since the surprise move. But, is it that surprising? Why do we get so swept up in name recognition and does it ever really work out well? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political reporter Ethan Griffiths is with us to explain how much star power really matters at the ballot box, whether high‑profile names actually change votes, and what history can tell us about how this latest twist might play out. 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.

H5N1 bird flu has landed in New Zealand. The positive result from a brown skua found at Wellington’s Petone Beach is the country’s first case of the strain. For months, officials, farmers, and DOC workers have been bracing for this moment, trying to protect our wildlife from a virus that’s already devastated birds around the world. We’ve been one of the last places on Earth untouched by H5N1. That’s no longer true. So, how likely is it to spread, which animals are at risk, and should anyone be worried about their own safety? Today on The Front Page, University of Otago virologist Professor Jemma Geoghegan is with us to unpack what this means for our wildlife, our poultry sector, and the risk to people. 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.

Ex broadcaster Paul Henry is running for Act in the upcoming election. He stood for National in 1999 but is best known for hosting TVNZ's Breakfast in the mid-2000s. Henry’s long media career has been marked by a string of public controversies, many of which have led to him being criticised for his offensive and inflammatory remarks. So, with Act stagnant in polls - will this colourful personality be the party’s secret weapon or agent of chaos – or both? Today on The Front Page, Paul Henry joins us to discuss why politics, why now, and what happens 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.

Don’t you think it’s time for New Zealand to have more supermarket options? The Government's announced a new guide for international chains wanting to set up shop here. It’s all in the hope of luring overseas investors to break up our duopoly grocery sector. Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has said the guidelines are like rolling out a red carpet for those looking here to invest – but, the question is, will anyone actually want to walk it? Today on The Front Page, Grocery Action Group chair Sue Chetwin is with us to explain why the option and ownership problems go deeper than new rules, and whether this could really change what’s on Kiwi dinner tables. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States has unleashed its biggest round of strikes on Iran in weeks. The US has said it struck about 140 Iranian military sites – which prompted Tehran to attack allies in the region, including Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, the UAE, and Qatar. Meanwhile, Washington insists that the Strait of Hormuz is open, despite Iran saying it has closed the waterway amid renewed strikes. Today on The Front Page, Waikato University international law professor Alexander Gillespie is with us to break down the legality of these strikes, the risks of further escalation, and what could come 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.

This week, New Zealand will host Narendra Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit this country in four decades. It should be a major diplomatic and economic moment, coming as the India free trade agreement edges closer to ratification and the Government celebrates early signs of export growth. But behind the diplomatic spectacle, political tensions are still bubbling away. Foreign Minister Winston Peters- who will absent from the weekend’s events- has been openly critical of the deal, accusing National of quietly tightening immigration settings linked to it without proper transparency. So, is this a genuine breakthrough in one of New Zealand’s most significant relationships — or is the politics around the deal threatening to muddy the moment? Today on The Front Page, India New Zealand Business Council chair Edwin Paul is with us to unpack Modi’s visit, what the trade deal could actually mean for New Zealand, and whether the political noise risks overshadowing a historic opportunity. 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 unveiled its pitch to make power bills cheaper. If elected, the party’s promising subsidies of up to $3000 to low-and-middle-income households so they can install solar panels. The party is also promising two Government-backed low-interest loan schemes for home energy upgrades, alongside rule changes that would let renters install plug-in solar too. If that sounds familiar, it’s because National rolled out its own solar policy just a few weeks ago. So what, exactly, sets Labour’s plan apart? And will it actually make a meaningful dent in household power bills? Today on The Front Page, Labour leader Chris Hipkins is with us to explain how it would all work. 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.

All eyes are on the Reserve Bank this week, as it prepares to make its latest call on the Official Cash Rate. Just weeks ago, a hike looked likely. But as Wednesday’s announcement approaches, that once-simple story has become a lot more complicated. Fuel prices have fallen, inflation fears have softened, and economists are now sharply divided on whether the Bank should move at all. So what changed? And what does this moment reveal about the balancing act the Reserve Bank is trying to pull off? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor at large Liam Dann is with us to talk through the OCR call, the growing uncertainty around it, and what comes next for borrowers, businesses, and the 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 DanielsEditor/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Jane YeeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Sunday Panel, host of The Prosperity Project podcast, Nadine Higgins, and Coast's Lorna Riley joined in on a discussion about the following issues of the day - and more! Liam Dann from the New Zealand Herald says we need compulsory KiwiSaver and National and Labour have to work together to devise a bipartisan solution. What do we make of this? Is making KiwiSaver compulsory an issue for those on lower incomes? How can we get better at saving money? The All Blacks had their first match in Christchurch's new One NZ Stadium. What did we think of this? How cool did the stadium look? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last week we've seen house prices slumping in what could be the biggest property reset in decades, while petrol prices may also be set to come down. Liam Dann is the Business Editor at Large for the New Zealand Herald. He talks to Mihingarangi about the latest data trends.

This week on The Netty Life, we head across the ditch to catch up with sports journalist and Silver Ferns reporter Nathan Limm from the New Zealand Herald as the ANZ Premiership nears the finals. Nathan updates us on the teams to beat in the competition, how the Aussie imports are faring and shares his predictions on how the world number two ranked side will go at the Commonwealth Games.

Joining Jesse to explain the decision OVER Richie Mo'unga is New Zealand Herald rugby analyst Gregor Paul.

Home schooling is in the headlines today after the New Zealand Herald revealed that the Ministry of Education granted Marokopa father Tom Phillips permission to homeschool his three children before the family disappeared in 2021. What surprised us was that it seems no ministry officials visited Phillips to assess his suitability, or what the children were learning, that's after regular in-person reviews of homeschooling households were scaled back in 2010. So this afternoon, we wanted to take a closer look at how homeschooling works in New Zealand. Todd Roughton is a former principal who left the mainstream education system to homeschool his four children. He's now the Principal Emeritus of Home Schooling New Zealand.  [picture id="4MTAVAN_copyright_image_230834" crop="16x10" layout="full"]

So, I'm fascinated by this article in the New Zealand Herald, which argues the All Blacks should be forced to give up business class and travel premium economy instead. The reasoning is the cost of international travel has become so expensive that moving our teams in black around the planet is now costing nearly $87 million a year. Dropping them back a class on the plane would bring that cost down to $80 million a year and nearly wipe out the $7 million loss that New Zealand Rugby just reported for the financial year, which is great maths. But the idea is ridiculous, isn't it? I mean, you can't ask a two-metre-tall man like Fabian Holland to move down from business class. But even the shorter guys - you can't ask them to travel to South Africa in a few weeks, which is literally on the other side of the world. It's close to a full day's travel, even on the most direct route through Perth, and then expect them to get over their jet lag and start playing top-level rugby against the best team in the world. You're asking them to do all of that after they've been sitting upright on a plane for the entire flight. That's impossible. We sometimes disparage rugby as not being a “real job” when we say things like, “Oh, it's not that hard to throw a ball around a paddock,” which may be true - but it's still a job, isn't it? And when you're asking someone to fly that distance for work - not just once but multiple times in a season - it should be in business class. Now, there is an argument about how many people go on these trips and I'm happy to have that conversation. There are apparently more than 40 players and nearly 30 staff heading to South Africa in a few weeks' time, which seems excessive for a game that only requires 15 men on the field at any one time. And by the way, it's not just the All Blacks who do this - who take these enormous squads around the world and put them in business class. It's also the Black Ferns and the Sevens teams. But as for the idea of dropping these players down a class on the plane to bring them down a peg and save some money - I suspect there are people who will look at this and think it's a great idea. And that's the part that fascinates me. How many people out there like the idea that our best rugby players should be forced to sit further down the plane, just like the rest of us? LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast for Friday, 8 May, 2026, Winston Peters insists he won't support efforts by the National Party to raise the retirement age. We talk to one of the women who's accused Sir Rod Drury of inappropriate conduct about him handing back his New Zealander of the Year award. The New Zealand Herald's media insider Shayne Currie on who should succeed Maiki Sherman as TVNZ's political editor. And on the Sports Huddle, Adam Cooper and Paul Allison discuss Luke Metcalf's future with the Warriors. Get the Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive Full Show Podcast every weekday evening on iHeartRadio, or wherever you get your podcasts. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Judith Collins has two weeks left as an MP and she's given an exit interview to Audrey Young at the New Zealand Herald in which she says people don't like strong women - obviously referring to herself. Now, I don't disagree with Judith that she is a strong woman. She's formidable. But I do disagree with her that people don't like strong women, because what is Helen Clark if not a strong woman? So strong, they used to say that the softest part of her was her teeth - and yet she was elected and re-elected by the New Zealand public three times. That's more than Jacinda Ardern achieved and Jacinda Ardern is not what I would call a strong woman. Now, look, I realise there are too many variables to ever make a truly fair comparison across elections like that. But if you did strip everything else out, you'd look at it like this: Helen, the strong woman, won three elections, compared with Jacinda - the milder personality - who won two and only really won the second because of COVID. Judith Collins doesn't explicitly blame the fact that she's a strong woman for her poor showing at the polls when she led the National Party - what did she come in at, 24 percent or something like that? She's really referring to the fact that she copped more outrage for rolling a sitting MP for a seat in 2002 than John Key did for doing the same thing in the same year. But just for the avoidance of doubt: Judith's problem as leader of the National Party was not that she was a strong woman. In fact, that was part of her attraction at the time. The problem was that she was up against Jacinda in the COVID election, which was really a hiding to nothing - and she was doing weird things like praying in church for the cameras and making comments about fat people during the campaign. Much as I might have agreed with her, that was not a smart move. But I really wish that women like Judith would stop blaming their gender for how people react to them because more often than not it is not their gender that's the problem - it's something else. And by blaming their gender, they're avoiding being honest with themselves and honest with others about what that other thing is. More importantly - much, much more importantly - this reinforces to younger women that they're up against it simply because they're women, that being a woman, and especially being a strong woman, is somehow a problem. It is not a problem. People like strong women. Most of us have strong women for mothers. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s show: Talkback radio pushes Megan over the edge in a furious debate about people singing at concerts. We prank our boss by pretending an on-air F-bomb went to air… Producer Grace SUCKS at this imposter game A Dear Megan sparks outrage over a mother-in-law secretly seasoning someone else’s cooking. How the plastic bag outrage didn’t age well Ben accidentally reveals to his wife the hidden stash of ridiculous old costumes under the bed Megan finally agrees to peel the plastic off her fridge after five years!!! The Itty Bitty Hitty Committee makes the New Zealand Herald. Instagram: @THEHITSBREAKFAST Facebook: The Hits Breakfast with Jono, Ben & MeganSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for March 4, 2026 is: ad hoc • AD-HOCK • adjective Ad hoc describes something that is formed or used for a special purpose, or that is made or done without planning because of an immediate need. // An ad hoc committee was formed to investigate the matter. // The company will hire more staff on an ad hoc basis. See the entry > Examples: "At the centre of the plan were tools designed to help governments and councils move beyond ad hoc responses to extreme weather." — Kirsty Johnston, The New Zealand Herald, 31 Jan. 2026 Did you know? In Latin ad hoc literally means "for this," and in English the term describes anything that can be thought of as existing "for this purpose only." For example, an ad hoc committee is generally authorized to look into a single matter of limited scope, not to broadly pursue any issue of interest. Ad hoc can also be used as an adverb meaning "for the particular end or case at hand without consideration of wider application," as in "decisions were made ad hoc."