2024 in review: From Luxon to Trump, economic upheavals to growing division

While 2024 may not have brought the shocks of cyclones, Prime Ministerial resignations or election campaigns, there’s a lot to digest from the last year.   The Government delivered tax relief, gang crackdowns and a Fast Track bill, while dealing with controversy over Māori relations, smoking laws and apartment entitlements. Te Pāti Māori led the fight back against the Treaty Principles Bill, while Labour rebuilt from its election loss, and the Greens contended with rogue MPs and personal tragedy. Inflation started to fall, but a tough economy saw thousands lose their jobs, including the end of iconic news brands. Māoridom farewelled a King and welcomed a new Queen, while the British Monarchy was dealt a double cancer blow. Globally, conflict continued across Ukraine and Gaza, while the ‘year of elections’ delivered a new PM for the UK, and an old President for the US. And fans around the world found time to hold space for Brat Summer, Wicked, the Menendez Brothers and the Eras tour. Today on The Front Page, for our final episode of 2024, we’re discussing all the highs and lows of the year with Coast host Lorna Riley, and NZ Herald business editor at large, Liam Dann. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.