The Front Page

People respond to election losses in various ways, from protesting to legal action to considering moving country. But, what about adopting a vow of celibacy through something called the “4B movement”? That’s what some young women in the US have promised on social media in protest of Donald Trump winning back the White House. No dating. No sex, No childbirth. And no marriage. In a world where: the next US President was found liable for sexual abuse, online vitriol against women is skyrocketing,  and the term “your body, my choice” is trending online... how effective could this 4B movement be?  University of Otago PhD candidate Rachel Billington has researched how young people interact with each other online, and joins us now on The Front Page to discuss this growing movement. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Seymour’s Treaty Principles Bill was introduced to Parliament last week – with its first reading debate scheduled for today. The bill has sparked fierce criticism since it was included as part of National and Act’s coalition agreement last year.  Protests are expected outside Parliament today, while thousands of marchers protesting Government policies affecting Maori crossed the Auckland Harbour Bridge yesterday as part of a hikoi to Parliament. So, now that we’ve actually seen the Bill, what’s in it, and what are the chances of it actually getting across the line? Today on The Front Page, Newstalk ZB political editor Jason Walls joins us to discuss one of the most contentious Government bills in recent memory. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As votes continue to be counted in the US, President-elect Donald Trump has swept all seven battleground states, confirming his dominant performance in the country’s election. While many were shocked that the US would return to Trump after four years, many voters have made it clear their feelings about high inflation and the cost of living under the Biden administration swayed them towards the Republicans. It’s a similar sentiment that helped National, Act and NZ First ascend to power in our election last year. But, in a global economic environment, how much sway does one political leader have over how much you're paying for groceries and petrol? Today on The Front Page, we discuss this with NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gen Z can be credited with a few things – an uptick in climate awareness, the ability to work any kind of technology, and the revival of straight leg jeans, just to name a few. However, recruiters across the ditch in Australia have spoken out about Gen Z graduates’ demands on employers –saying their arrogant expectations are leaving a bad taste in their bosses’ mouths. The oldest of the generation, born between 1997 and 2012, are 27 years old, so they are set to stick around in the workplace for quite some time. So are they in their wrong with their approach to work, or are they actually onto something? Today on The Front Page, recruitment agency Robert Walters, CEO of Australia & NZ Shay Peters, joins us to discuss the impact of our youngest generation of workers. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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

The rise and rise of online retailers has hit an all-time high – with the likes of Temu and Shein dominating consumption worldwide. New research has revealed over the course of three months, one in four New Zealanders surveyed purchased products from ultra-fast fashion retailer Temu. A further 14% of Kiwis are estimated to have recently purchased from Shein. The stats keep coming: Tearfund’s 2021 Ethical Fashion Report found in 2019 that 40% of clothes imported into New Zealand could be made using forced and child labour. It’s all while one study found garments were thrown out after no more than 10 wearings. So, when it comes to t-shirts and dresses being sold as low as $6 – who is really paying the price? Today on The Front Page, Tearfund head of advocacy Claire Gray joins us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the one story that’s been impossible to escape this year – the US Presidential election. Months of debates, rallies, and shocking developments have led to today when Americans are heading to the polls to decide who will lead their nation for the next four years. Vice-President Kamala Harris is the Democratic nominee. Taking over from incumbent Joe Biden, she’s up against former President Donald Trump in what many are calling one of the most important elections of our lifetime. We speak to NZ Herald deputy political editor Thomas Coughlan who's on the ground in the US - and run through the six months leading to election day. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Dan Goodwin, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan Sills See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

If there’s one topic Kiwis never get tired of talking about, it’s houses. It’s the biggest purchase most people will ever make in their lives, so if you’re looking to buy, it pays to do your research.  Fortunately, OneRoof has today released its official ranking of the 100 hottest suburbs across the nation. Alongside data partner Valocity, the experts have combed through every neighbourhood in the country, and rated them on factors like affordability, amenities, and growth potential. Today on the Front Page, we’re joined by OneRoof editor Owen Vaughn to talk about their process, and some of the surprising discoveries they made along the way.  Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

New Zealand’s hunt to poach overseas doctors gets another tool in the toolbox today. From now, medical graduates from the UK, Ireland and Australia will be able to have their applications for registration assessed within 20 working days. It’ll speed up a process that would usually take six months – and the government hopes it’ll fill critical gaps in our health workforce.  But, unions on the ground doubt the impact of this fast-track pathway – saying it’s welcome, but not sure that it's going to make a difference. Today on The Front Page, Association of Salaried Medical Specialists executive director Sarah Dalton is with us to discuss. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Auckland’s Mayor Wayne Brown has never shied away from telling us exactly what he thinks. He’s waged war on council-controlled organisations, like EkePanuku and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, with proposals to abolish them altogether and bring their activities in-house. He’s never thought twice in criticising who he calls the “weasels in Wellington” (or, central Government), and he’s also never shied away from voicing his concerns around Auckland Transport, which is currently dealing with a wave of violent attacks on drivers, and passengers. Today on The Front Page, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown joins us to discuss these issues – ahead of his trip to China, where he hopes to put the City of Sails on the to-do list for investors. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

India has suffered its first series defeat at home since 2012 – at the hands of none other than New Zealand. The 2-0 defeat came when India was bowled out for 245 by the Black Caps in their chase of 359 on the third day of the second test. So, what does this mean for cricket in New Zealand? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald online sports editor, Alex Powell joins us to discuss this historic win – and why it matters. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineers: Paddy Fox, Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sending your DNA in to a website to find out your background has become a trendy thing to do.  But, is there a hidden cost to this?   DNA testing company 23andMe is in financial crisis, raising questions about what will happen to the data it holds on 15 million customers worldwide.  New Zealanders are concerned their genetic information could be on-sold and used for other purposes, including insurance or law enforcement.  Today on The Front Page, privacy lawyer Rick Shera joins us to explain the concerns here.   Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2011, NZ Herald journalist David Fisher became aware that a woman had been caught catfishing dozens of teenage boys and young men across New Zealand. Catfishing is a term used for people who use stolen photos to pretend to be someone else online, usually to form relationships with real people across social media. Fisher would go on to expose the woman behind the false online accounts as Natalia Burgess. She referred to herself as ‘The Puppeteer’. Fisher interviewed Burgess on several occasions before she went to jail for charges related to her online activity. He thought she would have learnt her lesson, but two years ago he received an email from a woman who had had her photos stolen by Burgess, and it was ruining her life. Fisher explored Burgess’ actions in the true crime podcast, Chasing Ghosts: The Puppeteer, and he joins us today on The Front Page, to discuss what he learned. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It seems that when one political scandal ends, another one rises to take its place.  This week, the Green Party ended the saga that has dominated 2024 for them, with MP Darleen Tana formally removed as an MP in the first usage of the Waka Jumping Bill.   As Chloe Swarbrick and her party look to the future, it’s now National’s turn to deal with an unneeded diversion, after Minister Andrew Bayly was accused of abusing a member of the public at a business event.  And at the same, Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters has engaged in a war of words with Te Pati Māori and the Labour Party.   So, to make sense of the latest political ups and downs, today on The Front Page, we’re joined by Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent, Barry Soper.   Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Dan GoodwinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, we reported on the issues at Wellington City Council after councillors voted against selling airport shares, forcing a rethink of the council’s long term plan. The Coalition Government labelled the council a ‘shambles’, and threatened to send in a Crown Observer. Well, they’ve now delivered on that threat, with Local Government Minister Simeon Brown confirming that appointment will be coming. The move puts more pressure on Mayor Tory Whanau and her councillors to sort out their issues – but it has also sparked debate around if the bar is too low for the Government to intervene. Today on The Front Page, Jim Palmer, a consultant who chaired the Review into the Future for Local Government, is with us to discuss the issues at our council tables. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

13 youths climbed atop a youth justice facility in South Auckland on Monday night – demanding fast food, cigarettes, and a getaway car. The group made it on to the top of the Korowai Manaaki facility in Wiri just after 6.30 that night. By 9am the next day, just four remained. They came down just before noon. It’s reminiscent of an incident at the same facility last year – when groups of young people climbed onto the roof. A month later, a trio of teens did it again – and in June, another group staged a rooftop standoff at a facility near Christchurch. But, who exactly are these unruly youths – and are we doing the best to care for them? Today on The Front Page, youth worker and found of Kick Back youth development  Aaron Hendry joins us to discuss these incidents. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer: Paddy FoxProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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