NZ's enrolment problem - where are the young voters?

We’re seven weeks out from the general election, and nearly 190 thousand young people are missing from the roll. Only around 57% of 18-24 year olds have enrolled to vote, the lowest representation of any age group – and by a huge margin. Today on The Front Page we’re talking to Adriana Bird from O…

Should your fuel tax and road-user charges pay for roadside sculptures?

New Zealanders spend billions of dollars every year on transport, through fuel taxes, road-user charges, rates and tolls.  But the Act Party says we're not getting enough for what we're spending.  New Zealand has spent an average of 5.8% of GDP on infrastructure each year over the past couple of …

Is Auckland congestion charging fair when so many still can’t rely on public transport?

For Aucklanders, sitting in traffic can feel like an unavoidable part of life.   But, what if you had to pay to do it?  Auckland Council is considering congestion charging, with three options on the table that could see drivers charged between $2 and $7.  Supporters say it could get traffic movi…

What do absent leaders say about the future of the Pacific Islands Forum?

The diplomatic chess board is getting complicated in the Pacific.  At least five Pacific leaders have pulled out of the annual Pacific Island Forum in Palau this week.   Meanwhile, China's Pacific envoy says there will be consequences for Taiwan being allowed to send representatives to the forum.…

Debt vs delivery: the trust problem behind NZ’s borrowing debate

New Zealand’s debt burden has nearly doubled in 10 years.  But, there are signs the country’s borrowing habits are becoming more sustainable.  New Zealand businesses have boosted their borrowings by more than $6 billion in the last year to $143b, which is a potential sign of rising confidence in …

‘Meh’: Uni students unimpressed by National's loan plan

National is promising to crack down on people abroad who are failing to pay back their student loans.  If re-elected, the party would ease compulsory student loan repayments from 12 percent to 10 percent - and charge those living overseas an extra one percent in annual interest.  Arrest warrants …

Inside the desperate response to Nepal’s devastating floods

Searches continue through the devastation in Nepal after a catastrophic flash flood.  More than 389 people have been killed and there are reportedly 1300 people missing, including at least 700 foreigners from two dozen countries.  Our officials understand at least five New Zealanders are believed…

Is this finally the economic turning point New Zealand has been waiting for?

Could we FINALLY be at an economic turning point?   Westpac economists have forecast the economy will return to growth in the current quarter.  They reckon there'll be 2.1% growth across 2026 – even picking up to 3% next year ... with exports and tourism doing the heavy lifting.  So, are we out …

Can councils deliver more with less under a 4% rates limit?

The Government wants to force councils to keep rate hikes at a maximum 4% from 2029.  Councils would be expected to prepare for the change from next July.  Local Government Minister Simon Watts has said it'll ease cost-of-living pressures and get councils back to basics.  But, what will a lower …

Is banning social media the best way to protect children online?

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…