All our eggs in the dairy basket

Written By: - Date published: 12:27 pm, May 28th, 2015 - 157 comments
Categories: economy, farming, leadership, national - Tags: , ,

This government has been artificiality buoyed by a diary boom, now the bust leaves us highly exposed:

Milk price payout drop to plunge NZ into ‘$13b economic black hole’

Fonterra has forecast a $5.25-per-kg payout for milk solids in the 2015/16 season, and dropped the current season price by 10 cents. The next-season forecast is less than analyst predictions of about $5.50 per kg, and will be below the break-even point for many farmers. Last season’s payments had already fallen to an eight-year low of $4.50 per kg, but that figure has now dropped even lower to $4.40.
…
Labour’s Finance Spokesperson Grant Robertson responded to the drop by saying New Zealand has all its eggs in the dairy basket, and needs to diversify its industries to avoid Budget deficits.

“The milk price payout was $8.40 last season. It is dropping to $4.40 this season and will only recover to $5.25 next season,” Mr Robertson said

“That’s a $13 billion two-year economic black hole over the next two years. The big black hole in the Government’s budget was a plan to diversify the economy so New Zealand is not so reliant on commodity traders.”

Fonterra Chairman John Wilson said global commodity prices had not increased as expected, as markets were oversupplied with dairy.

Markets are oversupplied with dairy. The good times boom is over. A wise government would have already diversified into a green economy. An average government would start the process now. What will the Nats do?

157 comments on “All our eggs in the dairy basket ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. infused 1
    28 May 2015 at 12:48 pm

    Ah the Green Economy… Might as well join the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster.

    Every business has boom and bust times. That’s why you don’t be [r0b: I’m trying to stamp out that particular hate speak] and spend it all.

    • r0b 1.1
      28 May 2015 at 12:55 pm

      What a complete fool you are infused. And as to spending it all, National has run up $80b debt.

      • infused 1.1.1
        28 May 2015 at 1:09 pm

        Is the government a business? No, didn’t think so.

        • Tracey 1.1.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 1:12 pm

          what is it, in your view?

          • infused 1.1.1.1.1
            28 May 2015 at 1:16 pm

            Well, I really don’t have all day to write that up. Maybe when I have some time I’ll post it in open discussion for you.

            • Tracey 1.1.1.1.1.1
              28 May 2015 at 1:19 pm

              LOL – which is infused-speak for I don’t know and I never will

              To call BS on something you ought to already be able to describe what it is in a paragraph or so.

              • infused …
                28 May 2015 at 1:37 pm

                A small govt that governs without hindrance for the people, if you want a one liner. Although, I would greatly expand on that. I’m at work, hence the comment.

                If that means borrowing 80b cause Labour spent it all to keep people employed, so be it. Govt debt is hardly a problem at the moment.

                • Tracey …
                  28 May 2015 at 1:41 pm

                  is there a place for business “principles” in government?

                  • infused …
                    28 May 2015 at 1:42 pm

                    Boy, you go off on some tangents.

                    • Tracey …
                      28 May 2015 at 1:45 pm

                      how is it a tangent when you wrote

                      “Is the government a business? No, didn’t think so.”

                      You were the one who brought up whether a government is or is not a business, are you admitting you took the thread off topic?

                      Well, you and I can’t really discuss the green economy (subject of the post – in part) because you arent clear on what that actually means.

                • Draco T Bastard …
                  28 May 2015 at 2:54 pm

                  If that means borrowing 80b cause Labour spent it all to keep people employed, so be it.

                  Nine surpluses in a row would indicate that Labour didn’t spend it all. In fact, it appears that they didn’t spend it at all.

                  The fact that you know this and still said that they spent it all indicates that you’re lying.

        • Jones 1.1.1.2
          28 May 2015 at 4:10 pm

          It most certainly is… so much so that big-business keeps wanting to do business with it.

        • Stuff the Politicians 1.1.1.3
          28 May 2015 at 4:17 pm

          Well yes it actually, the biggest by a mile in this country.

    • Puckish Rogue 1.2
      28 May 2015 at 1:00 pm

      I suppose if you know you’ll never be the major party in power you can say whatever you like

      • Tracey 1.2.1
        28 May 2015 at 1:06 pm

        Is there a reason you think that we cannot diversify AND do what we do now? What do you think the term “Green Economy” means?

        • Puckish Rogue 1.2.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 1:34 pm

          What do you think the term “Green Economy” means?

          A load of old cobblers is what I really think

          • Tracey 1.2.1.1.1
            28 May 2015 at 1:43 pm

            You could say “I don’t know”, but then from your reply, I guess you already did.

            If we don’t define what we are each talking about, there’s not much point in a discussion.

            What is it that you think is “old cobblers”, try to answer without using the words green economy. What do you think was the specific old cobblers Key was speaking when he said

            “encourage people to have a more green economy”

          • mauÄ« 1.2.1.1.2
            28 May 2015 at 2:04 pm

            It’s lucky humans are so adaptable that the next generation can adapt to +4 deg temps.

            • Lanthanide 1.2.1.1.2.1
              28 May 2015 at 8:53 pm

              Yes, we are very adaptable. But just saying “+4 deg temps” really undersells the destruction coming our way.

              Extreme weather events is what we’ll have to adapt to. And adapt our food supply to. Or adapt ourselves to a less diverse and secure food supply…

              • Colonial Rawshark …
                28 May 2015 at 9:05 pm

                Yes, the human population will definitely adapt to a far less dependable and far less bountiful food supply. Egypt, India and Australia are not going to be great places to be.

              • mauī …
                28 May 2015 at 9:14 pm

                Q. How do we get 4 million kiwi oil addicts who are enabled by leaders who supply them with oil syringes to become sober?

                That’s a serious question, ideas welcome.

                • Colonial Rawshark …
                  28 May 2015 at 9:41 pm

                  The addiction is to energy and ease and second hand marketed delusions…you are asking the right questions

                • Lanthanide …
                  28 May 2015 at 10:20 pm

                  The only way capitalism knows how: price.

                  Demand destruction and substitution will be the saviour of us! At least, the ones that survive.

                • b waghorn …
                  29 May 2015 at 7:40 am

                  Electric vehicles because as much as some greenys think that people will live a “lesser” lifestyle if only they understood! Its not going to happen .

                  • weka …
                    29 May 2015 at 7:47 am

                    Everyone in NZ will live a lower lifestyle, it’s just a matter of whether we will change while it’s easy or wait until climate change and peak oil force us to. The sooner we change the better our ongoing lifestyles will be.

                    • b waghorn …
                      29 May 2015 at 8:07 am

                      I realize that but politically the only option is to shift people off oil with out curbing there lifestyle s.

                    • weka …
                      29 May 2015 at 8:48 am

                      How’s that working out? 😉

                      I’m not sure we know what’s possible politically, we’ve never been in this situation before. But if we look at other times when people’s lives have been under serious thread in a distant rather than immediate way, we might get an idea. How did the NZ government manage rationing in WW2? A more recent, smaller example would be carless days.

                      I agree with you that politically this is very difficult, and this is my understanding of what the GP are doing. It’s not like there’s no GP people who don’t understand how bad things are, but they also understand the political reality and how to work with that.

                      I also agree with Bill that we need strong leadership on working with the wider population to create better understanding and engagement, and that if this happened we would probably shift much more quickly. He thinks the GP can do this, I’m in two minds, I think it might be possible for them to do this but have yet to see an explanation of how that might be done. Leadership from outside political parties might be another way this could happen.

          • Hanswurst 1.2.1.1.3
            28 May 2015 at 6:29 pm

            A load of old cobblers is what I really think

            Good to see you admitting it finally.

    • Tracey 1.3
      28 May 2015 at 1:04 pm

      Cos we can’t possibly have diversification and what we have now.

      • infused 1.3.1
        28 May 2015 at 1:08 pm

        Of course we can. The whole ‘green economy’ is bullshit though.

        Also, half my comment above is missing, which kind of puts it out of context.

        • Tracey 1.3.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 1:10 pm

          what do you think “green economy” means?

          • infused 1.3.1.1.1
            28 May 2015 at 1:13 pm

            Well, the actual meaning, and what a lot of people mean here differs quite a bit. This is realised by what rob has linked to (post from 2013).

            • Tracey 1.3.1.1.1.1
              28 May 2015 at 1:14 pm

              what do YOU think it means? Afterall you have labelled it “BS”, so what doe sit mean to you when you write that?

              • infused …
                28 May 2015 at 1:19 pm

                I said BS to what a lot of people here refer it to be. If you want to see that clearly, read the wiki entry, then read what Greenpeace has to say about it (the link rob shared)

                • Tracey …
                  28 May 2015 at 1:37 pm

                  infused wrote

                  “The whole ‘green economy’ is bullshit though.”

                  So, no, you clearly wrote that the “green economy” is bullshit. I’ve asked what you mean by the green economy. You said you haven’t time to
                  write the long response you think my question required. I just thought you would know what you thought the green economy was when you called it bullshit. That’s all. For some reason you have turned your answers into being about what others think it is. Fair enough, but it wasn’t such a hard question, I thought.

        • dukeofurl 1.3.1.2
          28 May 2015 at 1:28 pm

          There is someone else you should tell its all bullshit?

          “Rt Hon JOHN KEY: The Government is going down the path of making sure that there are quite a number of aspects of the economy that would encourage people to have a more green economy. ”

          When Key was in China last year he was on the same page as President Xi jinping

          “…expand cooperation in the fields of green economy, energy saving, emission reduction, and high technology, and promote cultural, educational and tourist exchanges….”

          • infused 1.3.1.2.1
            28 May 2015 at 1:34 pm

            Read my comment under Tracey @ 1.3.1.1.1.1

            • Tracey 1.3.1.2.1.1
              28 May 2015 at 1:38 pm

              infused wrote

              “The whole ‘green economy’ is bullshit though.”

              So, no, you clearly wrote that the “green economy” is bullshit. I’ve asked what you mean by the green economy. You said you haven’t time to
              write the long response you think my question required. I just thought you would know what you thought the green economy was when you called it bullshit. That’s all. For some reason you have turned your answers into being about what others think it is. Fair enough, but it wasn’t such a hard question, I thought.

              • infused …
                28 May 2015 at 1:39 pm

                “So, no, you clearly wrote that the “green economy” is bullshit. I’ve asked what you mean by the green economy. You said you haven’t time to”

                Excuse me? I didn’t say that at all.

                I said I didn’t have time to write what I think government is. Quite different.

                • Tracey …
                  28 May 2015 at 1:49 pm

                  you’re right, you said the green economy is bullshit and have refused to clarify what “you” think is meant by green economy. I can see why you might think you haven;t refused to say what it means even though you have not written what you think it means. You clearly have time but just don’t want to. Sorry.

                  • infused …
                    28 May 2015 at 2:19 pm

                    I don’t believe you will get a green economy, as what wiki states, until the world changes.

                    And there is one big issue here. Oil.

                    Until oil is removed, or costs a significant amount more than R&D in to clean alternatives, it’s not going to happen.

                    That’s pretty much where the argument starts and ends in my books.

                    The problem with this is that ‘the people in control’ of oil, will never let that extreme pricing happen. Sure, they will milk us every now and then, like what happened a number of years back, but the whole peak oil situation with pricing won’t.

                    You can also add to that, people don’t want to give up their current lifestyle until it has some serious impact on their life.

                    So in the end, It’s not a matter of what I believe. That makes no difference.

                    • Molly …
                      28 May 2015 at 2:50 pm

                      Infused, with someone without much time to answer simple questions, your constant ducking and diving represents time aplenty.

                      You still haven’t specified what “you” think a green economy entails, despite redirecting to Wikipedia.

                    • Tracey …
                      28 May 2015 at 4:35 pm

                      Ok, so the wiki definition is what you meant by “green economy” which you think is bullshit. I really wanted your to tell me in your own words but dashing off to wiki will do.

                      When you say the world needs to change do you mean people need to change, and which people? Will you wait until they change, and then will you change? Or how do you see it working?

                      Did you vote in 2014? I ask cos you think what you think doesn’t make a difference, but yet you still voted, why?

        • Draco T Bastard 1.3.1.3
          28 May 2015 at 2:56 pm

          The whole ‘green economy’ is bullshit though.

          No, the current economy is bullshit, and cowshit, and unsustainable.

      • Dazzer 1.3.2
        28 May 2015 at 2:05 pm

        In 2010 dairy was 2.8% of our GDP. Can you or someone else explain how that we need to diversify more than that.

        • Tracey 1.3.2.1
          28 May 2015 at 2:19 pm

          what is it in 2014/2015?

          so the highs and lows of dairy prices is not a problem Dazer? To everyone? No one? Some folks (which ones)? Do tell.

          What do you think of the notion of a Green economy, and what do you mean when you use the term green economy (if you use it)

          • infused 1.3.2.1.1
            28 May 2015 at 2:24 pm

            Why don’t you tell us Tracey? How about we hear it from yourself.

            • Tracey 1.3.2.1.1.1
              28 May 2015 at 2:50 pm

              because YOU are the one who wrote it, the green economy, is bullshit. i am trying to understand you.

        • b waghorn 1.3.2.2
          28 May 2015 at 4:21 pm

          GDP means SFA what was it for export earnings.?

        • miravox 1.3.2.3
          28 May 2015 at 4:44 pm

          “Can you or someone else explain how that we need to diversify more than that.

          Because
          http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b9/New_Zealand_Export_Treemap_%282011%29.png

        • dukeofurl 1.3.2.5
          29 May 2015 at 2:17 pm

          Cant possibly be that small.
          2014 NZ GDP is $230 bill.

          Fonterra has revenue just about$ 22.3 bill for 2014.

          Its under 90% of the milk supply. We could say $25 bill with the others.

          We are looking at 10.8% of GDP ONLY for revenue related to milk and its other products.

          Then there is all the other services required for dairy farms. Transport is a biggy, stock trucks, animal feed is now the biggest average cost for dairy farmers .
          Farms need fences, gates, quads…. the list goes on.

          We could be well above 12% of GDP for dairy related as part of NZ economy.

          Then you take that number, any change in dairy income has little effect in the bigger cities and places that arent strong dairy regions, ie Hawkes Bay, Maybe North land in parts.
          But in others Dairy is a much higher share of economy in Waikato, Taranaki, and the newer areas now of Southland, South Canterbury.

          Dairying could easily be 30% of the economy in those areas.

          Next isnt looking good for payouts by Fonterra either, and if they go to 3-4 years, expect big taxpayer bailouts for dairy farmers.

          IT Will HAPPEN, as Key wnats to dump millions in Saudi Sheep farm, the local cow cockies will demand their share ( as they have allways)

          Privatise the profits , socialise the losses.

  2. Clean_power 2
    28 May 2015 at 1:25 pm

    The sky is falling, said the respected economist Grant Robertson. Let’s await confirmation from the Green Party to conclude NZ is doomed.

    • infused 3.1
      28 May 2015 at 1:40 pm

      Good to see you can use Google.

      • r0b 3.1.1
        28 May 2015 at 1:43 pm

        Indeed I can. It remains to be seen whether you can read.

        • Tracey 3.1.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 1:51 pm

          thanks for the post r0b and revealing that PR and infused will call bullshit and cobblers on “green economy” but won’t tell us what that term means to them. Hopefully they have clicked a link or 2 and are trying to formulate a meaning they can share so we can work out what everyone is writing about.

        • infused 3.1.1.2
          28 May 2015 at 1:54 pm

          yeah, I took just one link on this ‘cleantech’ growth. It’s all venture capital on tech startups that seems to be producing nothing. 2014 investors are pulling back.

          http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/6367528/A-clean-bill-of-wealth
          http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/8285106/Green-economy-way-of-future

          In fact, they seem to be predicting a cleantech crash. I’m sure you just missed that stuff.

          So, yeah, not very convincing.

          • Tracey 3.1.1.2.1
            28 May 2015 at 2:21 pm

            hmmm but why do you need links? You already know what you mean by green economy and what you think of as the green economy is bullshit, it;s just you are not sharing that context with us…

            No point in moving on to rubbish more stuff when you haven’t defined the last stuff you rubbished?

            • infused 3.1.1.2.1.1
              28 May 2015 at 2:25 pm

              Well, you will see why above.

              • Tracey …
                28 May 2015 at 2:48 pm

                some investors are pulling back? from what? the green economy? what does that mean? what do you mean by green economy when you say it is bullshit?

                sorry to go in circles but you havent defined what you are writing about so its hard yo follow your discussion.

          • r0b 3.1.1.2.2
            28 May 2015 at 2:30 pm

            yeah, I took just one link on this ‘cleantech’ growth. … So, yeah, not very convincing.

            And there you have it.

  4. Bill 4
    28 May 2015 at 2:05 pm

    Green growth has always struck me as a fanciful idea whereby the market economy is basically cleaned up…a bit like wiping its chin while it devours everything. Gotta kill that beast, not try and make it presentable.

    • Tracey 4.1
      28 May 2015 at 2:22 pm

      and by green growth do you mean the green economy?

      • Molly 4.1.1
        28 May 2015 at 2:53 pm

        Tracy, if you are in Auckland and up to a visit to the Aotea Centre, there is an interesting Auckland Conversation scheduled for tonight.

        Zaid Hassan: The Social Labs Revolution

        Along with green considerations, the triple bottom line movement and social enterprises are starting to pop up.

        • Tracey 4.1.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 4:22 pm

          I am in Auckland… will see if I can get there. I have a guest at 5pm… so finger’s crossed

    • aerobubble 4.2
      28 May 2015 at 3:12 pm

      The analogue with nature, that recycling sustainability etc create healthy efficient ecosystems. Pollution is a burden on the economy, the market will always target pollution, its govt that stops the economy getting efficient. Systemic interests need distortion created by govt, or not being alleviated by govt, holding govt back from acting or forcing govt hands to keep private players in money.

      Whether the sugar industry, or the debt industry, pollution whether to our bodies or to our personal budgets, is enhanced and controlled by govt in the control of distortionists.

      Take China, its need for growth, to contain its population political will, requires it pollutes. NZ willingness to pollute rivers for dairy is directly related to big finance wanting debt farms to keep balance books profitable.

  5. Draco T Bastard 5
    28 May 2015 at 2:51 pm

    What will the Nats do?

    Cut taxes on the rich and go to war.

  6. Colonial Rawshark 6
    28 May 2015 at 3:31 pm

    It takes two to three decades of consistent, active government intervention and support to diversify a primary industry economy into one capable of producing a wide range of high value-added goods and services.

    When you look at global success stories Germany, Taiwan, Singapore, Shenzhen, etc. this is what it has taken.

    No country heavily invested in financialised neoliberal ideology has ever successfully made this transition: Australia likes pushing out coal and iron, Canada has its tar sands, the US destroyed its manufacturing industries and is now the Fracking King, and the UK – well it had North Sea Oil while that lasted, and now it has the fraudsters in the City of London and corporate slum lords as growth industries.

    NZ politicians have not engaged in the serious societal discussions with the nation required to achieve the cross partisan agreement required to sustain a long term economic development policy for the nation.

    Until that happens, NZ will continue meandering along the course taken by primary industry as it has been doing for the last hundred years.

    • Colonial Rawshark 6.1
      28 May 2015 at 3:43 pm

      Need I add that Treasury and the RBNZ would have to be fully onboard with the deliberate economic diversification programme. Otherwise the initiative will be undermined from the outset and won’t last beyond which ever government of good will is in at the time. If it even lasts that long.

      • Draco T Bastard 6.1.1
        28 May 2015 at 4:19 pm

        +1

        Agree with both of your comments. Back in the middle of last century we were diversifying and building our economy and then we went to the full neo-liberal ideology in the 1980s and our economies development has stalled ever since while the capitalists look for the greatest returns from the least effort – capital gains and renting.

        • Colonial Rawshark 6.1.1.1
          28 May 2015 at 4:31 pm

          And the externalisation of costs on to the rest of society and the environment.

          • Tracey 6.1.1.1.1
            28 May 2015 at 4:41 pm

            yup… benefits flow to business…

            Government out of Business!

            small print except when business needs help and money

        • Macro 6.1.1.2
          28 May 2015 at 4:37 pm

          Yep that’s it in a nutshell. Douglas Prebble Richardson and co have a great deal to answer for. Our economy went out the window with that shower sending the majority into pauperdom.

  7. Ad 7
    28 May 2015 at 4:18 pm

    – milk bust

    – oil exploration bust

    – mining bust

    – wool bust

    – housing bubble

    – huge inequality growth

    They’ve got an economic plan, sure.
    They just got Sky City to write it.

  8. Macro 8
    28 May 2015 at 4:39 pm

    We live in a milk powder republic – one step removed from a banana.

  9. Mark Freeman 9
    28 May 2015 at 5:08 pm

    What I find somewhat puzzling (to put it politely) is that virtually none of the Green Party MP’s have Solar PV, while publicly extolling the benefits of it.

    • Macro 9.1
      28 May 2015 at 9:45 pm

      You know this for a fact do you?

      • Mark Freeman 9.1.1
        29 May 2015 at 8:30 am

        Depends whether or not I should believe the Green MP who emailed that information to me I guess…what do you think?

        • weka 9.1.1.1
          29 May 2015 at 8:49 am

          Oh good, you can cut and paste that for us here, thanks.

        • One Anonymous Bloke 9.1.1.2
          29 May 2015 at 8:50 am

          I think you’re lying, and that no Green MP has given you any details of other MPS domestic power arrangements. So you can easily prove me wrong by naming the MP, gutter boy.

          • Mark Freeman 9.1.1.2.1
            29 May 2015 at 9:08 am

            “23/12/2014
            Hi Mark

            Thanks for your email.

            I understand at least one of our MPs have solar and others are investigating it. I do not believe any have a financial interest in solar suppliers or installers.
            …..”

            I won’t name the MP, it was a private email between him & I and I know you are all big on privacy issues.

            • Colonial Rawshark 9.1.1.2.1.1
              29 May 2015 at 9:11 am

              and are you proud to imply that privacy issues aren’t a big deal to you? What a big fucking sociopath.

            • weka 9.1.1.2.1.2
              29 May 2015 at 9:13 am

              I’d like to see the whole email exchange thanks, you can leave out the names/addresses.

              • Mark Freeman …
                29 May 2015 at 9:33 am

                Hi Mark

                Thanks for your email.

                I understand at least one of our MPs have solar and others are investigating it. I do not believe any have a financial interest in solar suppliers or installers.

                I agree the electricity industry is not a fan of solar and I believe are actively discouraging it, that is why I have worked closely with SEANZ over the years to try and push for better rules, like this campaign.

                I disagree with this comment : “Unfortunately the Green Party has shown itself to have little influence in or knowledge of how the Electricity Industry operates, and appears far less concerned with “Green” Issues than it is with promoting failed Ideology and generally nasty Politics.” And wonder if you can explain it further because I have good relationships with various players in the electricity and solar sectors and as an opposition MP have worked hard in the last term to understand the sector and it’s issues and promote cheaper, cleaner power.

                Thanks again for getting in touch and Merry Christmas.

                Cheers
                XXXXXXXXXX

                Sent with Good (www.good.com)

                —–Original Message—–
                From: Mark Freeman [mark@XXXXXXXXXX]
                Sent: Tuesday, December 23, 2014 11:30 AM New Zealand Standard Time
                To: xxxxxxxx
                Subject: Give Solar A Fair Go
                Hi xxxxxxxx

                Thanks for your letter and info regarding this.

                It is a rare thing for me to agree with anything you say at all, but there are one or two points that make sense.

                First a couple of questions for you:

                • How many Green Party MP’s have invested in Solar PV on a personal level? If there are any that haven’t we would be happy to quote on a Commercial Quality System as I believe it should be compulsory for you all to have systems as big as you can possibly fit.
                • Do any Green Party MP’s have a financial interest in any Solar PV Suppliers or Installers?

                The Electricity Industry (understandably enough) is not a fan of Solar Energy – or any Small Scale Distributed Generation, and we see often the Retailers in particular (and sometimes Lines Companies) acting to the very edge of their Legislated obligations to enable Grid Tied self generation. Some extra Regulation may be in order.

                “I am pursuing and discussing these matters with parties that have a real chance to influence in this area.

                Unfortunately the Green Party has shown itself to have little influence in or knowledge of how the Electricity Industry operates, and appears far less concerned with “Green” Issues than it is with promoting failed Ideology and generally nasty Politics. For this reason I suspect it is somewhat pointless supporting your campaign in this matter – as soon as “The Greens” are mentioned to most people wanting Solar PV they seem to switch off and shake their heads.”

                The opinions in Quotation Marks are my own and shouldn’t be seen as the opinion or policy of xxxxxx Ltd.

                Kind Regards,
                Mark Freeman

                • Tracey …
                  29 May 2015 at 9:49 am

                  “promoting… generally nasty Politics.”

                  Examples from statements from Green Party MP’s please.

                • te reo putake …
                  29 May 2015 at 9:55 am

                  This has got to be the least convincing business pitch I’ve seen since Gourmet night at Fawlty Towers. Mark were you seriously expecting people you condemn as nasty, ignorant and irrelevant to buy solar panels off you? Is this how you approach all your potential customers?

                  • weka …
                    29 May 2015 at 10:03 am

                    Looks like a trole email to me.

                    • One Anonymous Bloke …
                      29 May 2015 at 1:20 pm

                      I wonder if the stupid gutter tr*ll used its Sky Solar work email to abuse an MP.

                      Unethical trash like that cause consumer boycotts.

                    • weka …
                      29 May 2015 at 2:11 pm

                      I’m guessing he did (hence the necessity of quotation marks). Pretty big misjudgement of boundaries, as is posting his politics in all there glory here. Crikey.

                      (decent of you to not link).

                    • One Anonymous Bloke …
                      29 May 2015 at 4:23 pm

                      …as soon as “The Greens” are mentioned to most people wanting Solar PV they seem to switch off and shake their heads.

                      Translation: when Mark Freeman from [deleted] runs his mouth about the Greens to potential clients he loses a sale.

                      [Not keen on identifying his employer, OAB. That’s probably a step too far. TRP]

                • weka …
                  29 May 2015 at 10:01 am

                  Thanks. Classic piece of projection re nasty ideology. In the face of that, I’m not even going to respond to the content. The GP’s work historically on solar can stand on its own. You’ve just shown that your own bias and beliefs seriously cloud your judgement, shame you work in the industry, you’re part of the problem.

                  As for the original hate slur, it’s blindingly obvious that individuals can’t change the solar industry by purchasing, which is what the GP were saying decades ago. The bullshit around seelling back to the grid is one of the biggest issues I hear from people considering solar. Lots of barriers in addition to that that can’t be solved by individuals. Which you will be well aware of.

            • te reo putake 9.1.1.2.1.3
              29 May 2015 at 9:16 am

              Wow! Quite a difference between “virtually none” and “at least one”. Thanks for putting your bias out there, Mark.

            • Tracey 9.1.1.2.1.4
              29 May 2015 at 9:47 am

              Do all ACT MP’s send their children to Charter Schools? And national MPs too? Can you ask them for us?

    • One Anonymous Bloke 9.2
      28 May 2015 at 10:29 pm

      What I find puzzling is when right wingers pretend they have ethics.

      • Mark Freeman 9.2.1
        29 May 2015 at 8:34 am

        Proclaiming (over & over) that you have more ethics, or “care” more than others does not make it so. In fact it can easily be seen to show the opposite.

        • Colonial Rawshark 9.2.1.1
          29 May 2015 at 8:40 am

          OK so a right winger then. Seriously in that case, why do you even care?

        • One Anonymous Bloke 9.2.1.2
          29 May 2015 at 8:42 am

          Proclaiming your petty schoolboy bile against Green MPs can easily be seen to reveal your low character. Why don’t you lift your game, gutter boy?

          • Mark Freeman 9.2.1.2.1
            29 May 2015 at 9:30 am

            It appears that the strain of plummeting Polls and an increasing number of failed “hits” on the increasingly popular & successful Govt is getting to you. Take a chill pill & smell the roses. The vast majority of NZ’ers are doing really well, are healthy & happy. I know it must hurt that your beloved Ideology is failing everywhere..but just think of the children for once.

            • weka 9.2.1.2.1.1
              29 May 2015 at 9:32 am

              Ah, trole mode now.

            • Tracey 9.2.1.2.1.2
              29 May 2015 at 9:53 am

              wow, just wow given you wrote this only 55 minutes before

              “Proclaiming (over & over) that you have more ethics, or “care” more than others does not make it so. In fact it can easily be seen to show the opposite.”

            • Corokia 9.2.1.2.1.3
              29 May 2015 at 10:49 am

              “think of the children for once”- duh- it’s National who are the short term thinkers and completely fucking ignore the future.

              • weka …
                29 May 2015 at 1:07 pm

                I took that phrase to be extreme sarcasm, which fits with the nasty ideology stuff.

            • One Anonymous Bloke 9.2.1.2.1.4
              29 May 2015 at 1:11 pm

              😆

              Why don’t you have any ethics, gutter boy?

              • Mark Freeman …
                30 May 2015 at 6:03 pm

                What a charming bunch of responses, but entirely missing the point.
                I’m not really sure where any abuse was involved in the email communication, or (from me) here – most people would think it a fairly relevant point to note that our Green MP’s are underwhemingly supportive of Solar on a personal level. Maybe they can’t afford it, maybe they want their apparent energy ethics to be subsidised by those who don’t have the physical pre-requisites or financial resources to benefit from the technology.
                Anyways, keep up the hating & dodge the issues – I thought some here would support a NZ business using local Inverter technology, installing exclusively panels from a company & country with strong environmental & employment credentials, and paying well above your cherished ‘living wage”. They’re my ethics & contribution OAB..much higher & more positive than yours by all accounts.
                If anyone wants a discussion on Solar PV , feel free to respond…The Standard surprisingly appears not the place for informative, positive, rational or adult discourse on the subject – whereas last time I looked even WO was.
                Who’d have guessed…

                • weka …
                  30 May 2015 at 6:14 pm

                  I can think of many valid reasons why the GP MPs might not have solar. But interestingly, my experience with debating hard core righties (of which I am sure you are one) is that they often have very limited imaginations, and so find it very hard to put themselves in other people’s shoes. Either that or they’re disingenuously manipulating the debate to serve their own ideology.

                  I find it hard to believe that you are unaware of the falsehoods about the GP you put in your email, but then I do get surprised about the level of consciousness of some people.

                  You are right of course, if you can’t handle being called out on your politics and behaviour, you are much better off at WO.

                  • Mark Freeman …
                    30 May 2015 at 9:03 pm

                    Falsehoods? You mean my comments clearly to be read as opinion in an email responding to a mass communication ( and addressed to the Company which I am an integral part of)
                    Poor response Weka – your preconceptions, insults and prejudice only weaken any argument or intellectual /moral superiority you and your gang claim.
                    As an advocate (apologist) for your political heroes how about you try to argue why they don’t have Solar? -I’ve put up a couple of points as to why they should..and I’d love to assist them or anyone who wants to get into it for whatever reasons.

                    • Colonial Rawshark …
                      30 May 2015 at 9:34 pm

                      hey Mark, solar PV is a shitty technology which cannot scale to serve the needs of a nation.

                      We have to reduce our carbon foot print in NZ as well as getting off fossil fuels, and your focus on irrelevancies is not helpful.

                    • weka …
                      31 May 2015 at 12:32 am

                      “Falsehoods? You mean my comments clearly to be read as opinion in an email responding to a mass communication ( and addressed to the Company which I am an integral part of)”

                      No I mean your assertions of ‘fact’ that have no back up.

                      “As an advocate (apologist) for your political heroes how about you try to argue why they don’t have Solar?”

                      Because you are trole here for the rhetoric and I can’t be bothered.

                      eg,

                      “Poor response Weka – your preconceptions, insults and prejudice only weaken any argument or intellectual /moral superiority you and your gang claim.”

                • One Anonymous Bloke …
                  31 May 2015 at 8:21 am

                  I doubt you have the slightest input into the ethics of the Chinese franchise that employs you: the limitations of your role are made plain on the website.

                  • Mark Freeman …
                    31 May 2015 at 10:56 am

                    Wow..with skills & comprehension like that you are wasted here – shouldn’t you be a researcher for the Labour Party? Or maybe you are just being wilfully dishonest…again.

                    • One Anonymous Bloke …
                      31 May 2015 at 11:17 am

                      Nope, I honestly doubt your honesty.

                      That’s because you’re so stupid you used a company email address to insult an MP. Derp.

  10. Corokia 10
    28 May 2015 at 8:10 pm

    “What will the Nats do?”
    More dairy according to Nathan Guy in June last year.

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/better-business/invest-in-dairy/10089963/Dairy-farming-in-NZ-the-politicians-views

    “However, National is bullish about its “ambitious plans” to grow the dairy sector and says it is a big part of its plans to double primary exports by 2025.”

    Stupid, stupid, stupid.

  11. les 11
    28 May 2015 at 10:09 pm

    fuck dairy,other commodities and real productive enterprise..lets reheat the ‘Switzerland of the pacific ‘ idea ,first to see the sun and make markets!Banking,paper shuffling and tax shelters is the real deal!

  12. millsy 12
    28 May 2015 at 11:39 pm

    We should be exporting kiwi ingenuity. Get a lot more coin from that, and clean air as well.

    Building a spaceport in the Mackenzie Basin rather than more dairy farms sounds like the way forward.

    Farming is still going to be a large part of this economy, but we need a few other things in the mix as well.

    I would support a biotech industry in this country but I think we would end up having everything in the hands of Monsanto.

    • Colonial Rawshark 12.1
      28 May 2015 at 11:41 pm

      Well, we’re smart enough to export our ingenuity in dairy farming and sheep farming; I am sure this is going to end well for us.

    • John 12.2
      29 May 2015 at 12:41 am

      Reality check.

      A great company built on Kiwi ingenuity – Scott Technology – is laying people off this week.

      Some of our biotech companies are some of the worst performing on the NZX. Blis listed at 73c, now down to 2c,

      Our green tech companies are probably the worst performing sector on the NZX (Windflow $4.00 down to 5c, NZ windfarms peaked at $4,00 now down to 5c, Wellington Drive Technologies $3.00 down to 3c etc).

      The Greens often spout hot air that we should be raking it in in the Green Technology sector, yet ignore the fact that our many of our biggest best green companies are failing.

      The technology moves so fast that there’s no time to get a return on huge R&D costs. For example Energy Mad has spent millions of dollars and years of work into developing energy efficient light bulbs, which are now suddenly obsolete because of LED technology.

      Meanwhile our companies are trying to compete with massive overseas companies with 100,000 workers that have the best and brightest people on the planet, that have been working on green technology for over a century.

      And even with these huge companies, the green tech sector has been one of the worst sectors to invest in over the last decade. On average, shares in the world’s major green tech companies are worth barely half what they were ten years ago.

      As a percentage of world GDP, manufacturing has nearly halved since the 1970s. Which is why its delusional to look at manufacturing as some golden goose – a declining sector, in the worst located country in the world to try to make products for the world.

      Equally delusional is the idea that the govt can force private companies start up and invest in sectors they are not currently in, have no experience in, and compete successfully against much larger and more experienced companies who are closer to the markets.

      At best, the govt can do some minor nudging.

      Yes, we need to diversify where we can, but the green job revolution that some of the Greens want the govt to sink money into, fails to recognise the sectors they want to invest in – green tech and biotech – are pretty much the two very worst performing sectors to invest in in NZ.

      • Draco T Bastard 12.2.1
        29 May 2015 at 7:16 am

        Making a profit isn’t why we should be producing a green economy. Being able to maintain our economy in a sustainable fashion is.

      • Colonial Rawshark 12.2.2
        29 May 2015 at 8:32 am

        But banking is going so well John!

        No matter how bad the real economy gets, the banks manage to extract $4B or ore in profits out of NZ businesses and households!

        Isn’t banking and finance such a wonderful ‘industry’? Look how many electronic ones and zeroes you can make even as the rest of the real economy we live in tanks!!!

        • John 12.2.2.1
          29 May 2015 at 4:15 pm

          If you don’t like the big four banks profits you have a choice – don’t use them.

          Nobody is forced to use one of the big four banks.

          Or, if they are as profitable as you say, you could buying shares in them. You’ll then find that you make around 5% dividend per year, taxed to 3.5%.

          Or you could just whinge about them for your whole life but do nothing.

          I took the second option and bought shares, but not because they are some golden goose – they’re not. Compared to other investments they’re at best, average.

          But I’m prepared to give up better returns to get more diversification into one more sector, albeit with solid but low returns.

          • Colonial Rawshark 12.2.2.1.1
            29 May 2015 at 4:39 pm

            If you don’t like the big four banks profits you have a choice – don’t use them.

            You’ve thoroughly missed the point. Which is that the banks are highly extractive parasites, sucking $4B out of NZ businesses and households a year, and pumping that money overseas.

            Why do you accept that loss to the country so breezily, John?

            • John 12.2.2.1.1.1
              29 May 2015 at 5:08 pm

              Because Kiwis are RECEIVING billions of dollars in returns from overseas companies, including banks.

              Kiwis have $140 billion in bank deposits, so if they were getting an average of 3% interest, there’s $4.2 billion in interest alone.

              • Colonial Rawshark …
                29 May 2015 at 5:21 pm

                John, are you able to add and subtract? The banks remove $4B pa NETT out of NZ. It’s what they call “profit” extracted out of NZ households and Kiwi businesess. Are you OK with this? Why?

              • McFlock …
                29 May 2015 at 5:26 pm

                John doesn’t understand the concept of profit.

                If their expenses are $b a year in interest payments to depositors, and they take $4b a year overseas in profit, that means that they must make at least $8b a year in lending and speculation, more if you include taxes.

      • Colonial Rawshark 12.2.3
        29 May 2015 at 8:42 am

        John, if you don’t think that NZ belongs on the world stage amongst leading developed nations, just say so.

        Then get the fuck out of political discourse because you don’t deserve to be here.

      • Corokia 12.2.4
        29 May 2015 at 8:46 am

        The recent events at Contact energy show how sharemarket investors don’t think long term. Performance on the stock market is not the only way to measure whether or not something is a good idea.

        I put this quote on open mike on Tuesday. The chief executive of Contact Denis Barnes, said he thinks there is great long term opportunity in renewables “ but the most value we can add is by finding resource and developing that resource and that takes many, many years, you know something like 5 to 7 years from when you first come across an opportunity to where you might be earning money from it”

        If everything is funded by the private market and that is all made up of short term thinking capitalists (such as idiots like this who think 5-7 years is ‘many, many years FFS!) then it’s not surprising we are screwed is it.

        • weka 12.2.4.1
          29 May 2015 at 9:11 am

          Contact should also stop trying to develop power generation in ways that the locals don’t like. I’d hazard a guess that Contact has lost a lot of money trying to develop sites where there was substantial objection. Even if it’s renewable generation, it’s not Green tech if you impose something on communities and create environmental problems. Not just Contact either. Would love to see a cost analysis of failed projects.

        • John 12.2.4.2
          29 May 2015 at 4:30 pm

          Corokia says ” (such as idiots like this who think 5-7 years is ‘many, many years FFS!) ”

          Different investors in different circumstances have different time frames, so 5-7 years IS long term for many people, and short term for others.

          So say an investor is an idiot to think 5-7 years is long term, without even knowing what their circumstance is, is idiotic in itself.

          The problem with Contact is they promised shareholders they would pay out more of their profits, then they reneged and said they would invest overseas in geothermal.

          So apart from deceiving shareholders, they were going to go into an area that a/ they had little expertise in, and b/ into
          a sector that companies who did have expertise, were getting out of because projects were turning into huge money sink holes.

          • Colonial Rawshark 12.2.4.2.1
            29 May 2015 at 4:34 pm

            That’s odd, I thought you Righties always thought that the private sector was superbly efficient and that fiscal discipline rules the day.

            • John 12.2.4.2.1.1
              29 May 2015 at 5:25 pm

              You should learn that if you pigeonhole people, you’ll end up regularly making wrong assumptions.

              There’s certainly plenty of examples of the private sector being much more efficient that govt, but there’s also there’s plenty of examples of the private sector stuffing up.

              (and I’ve voted left far more times than right)

              • Colonial Rawshark …
                29 May 2015 at 5:37 pm

                You don’t seem concerned with the privatisation of NZ assets and the huge extraction of moneys out of NZ by corporations, which is why I picked you as being right wing.

                • John …
                  29 May 2015 at 5:44 pm

                  The government through ACC the the super fund buy AND sell billions of dollars of assets every year.

                  So I find it financially ignorant to be overly concerned only about selling one particular type of asset, but not others.

                  I’ve also bought and sold electricity assets a number of times over the years.

                  So to have a rule of never ever selling a particular asset class regardless of whether you’d be better off with the money elsewhere, is an incredibly stupid way to invest.

      • weka 12.2.5
        29 May 2015 at 8:59 am

        “The technology moves so fast that there’s no time to get a return on huge R&D costs. For example Energy Mad has spent millions of dollars and years of work into developing energy efficient light bulbs, which are now suddenly obsolete because of LED technology.”

        If you are talking about CFL bulbs, they were always only going to be an interim tech, because of their inherent pollution issues, and because LED technology was following fast behind it. There’s nothing sudden about the obsolescence, LED as the tech we would need in the future has been around for a long time.

        Many greenies and other sustainability people never considered CFLs that green anyway. It’s probably a good example of what happens when you leave development of tech to private companies.

        As for the difficulty of green tech initiatives, there is a world of difference in trying to do that with governments that are at best ambivalent about them, or in the current situation outright against them, and governments that are highly supportive. If Labour or National had supported the Green Party initiatives on solar, which were designed to kick start the industry in NZ, we would be a decade ahead of where we are now. The situation we are in now is mindnumbingly stupid and predictable, and every year we wait is another lost opportunity to mitigate CC and prepare for the coming crises.

    • David 12.3
      1 June 2015 at 7:38 pm

      “Building a spaceport in the Mackenzie Basin rather than more dairy farms sounds like the way forward”

      What;s stopping you?

  13. John 13
    29 May 2015 at 4:01 pm

    All we would have if we’d all gone solar a decade ago is expensive solar panels that cost 300% more than they do today, a bit debt, and millions of taxpayer dollars spent on them.

    All so we could replace our renewable energy with renewable energy.

    You say LED technology has been around a long time, but two years ago there were no LED household bulbs in my local DIY store.
    A year ago they came in and cost over $20 each.
    Today I can get one for $6.

    • Colonial Rawshark 13.1
      29 May 2015 at 4:10 pm

      The time to transition to a low energy society is upon us, as your comment notes.

    • weka 13.2
      29 May 2015 at 4:13 pm

      I’m saying that LEDs have been on the horizon for a long time as the preferable emerging tech. Anyone banking on CFLs as staying dominant in the long term wasn’t paying attention.

      “All we would have if we’d all gone solar a decade ago is expensive solar panels that cost 300% more than they do today, a bit debt, and millions of taxpayer dollars spent on them.”

      That doesn’t make any sense.

      “All so we could replace our renewable energy with renewable energy.”

      No, we’d be replacing our fossil fuel generation and reducing it to zero. We’d also be able to increase overall generation capacity without building new dams where they’re not wanted or needed.

  14. John 14
    29 May 2015 at 4:55 pm

    No – pretty much all the power for where I live, in fact the whole South Island – comes from renewable, so we’d be getting a government subsidy to replace renewable energy with renewable energy – that’s nuts.

    And a total waste of precious taxpayer funds.

    There are many, many better ways to spend taxpayer money.

    I’m not against solar, and have looked at it several times before, but it doesn’t stack up.

    I can get a better annual return off any number of investments, and 25 years later I’ve still got the investment (probably worth much more) instead of a worn out solar system that’s worth nothing.

    So it replaces renewable with renewable, gets a lower annual return, and after 25 years my initial investment has disappeared – that’s a lose / lose / lose situation.

    • millsy 14.1
      29 May 2015 at 10:41 pm

      To bad New Zealanders are paying through the nose for that renewable energy, all so people like you can get higher and higher dividends.

      • Colonial Rawshark 14.1.1
        29 May 2015 at 10:50 pm

        Idiots like John don’t believe in real world economics, they believe in financialised sums. It’s moronic. If Manapouri were being proposed today, he’d slam it as a waste of tax payers money.

        • John 14.1.1.1
          29 May 2015 at 11:57 pm

          Clyde Dam today is worth only a quarter of what it cost to build over 20 years ago – morons like you think that’s good value for taxpayers.

      • John 14.1.2
        30 May 2015 at 12:18 am

        Please let me know where I can get these higher and higher dividends Contact Energy shares currently cost $6.20 and they earn 23 cents per share per year – that’s 3.8%.

        And 8 years ago when I sold my Contact Shares, they were worth $8. So if you add up all the dividends over that time, added to the share price, sticking your cash under your mattress would have given a better return.

        If you paid the real price for power coming out of Clyde Dam that reflected the cost to build it, you’d be paying 400% more than you do now.

        • Clemgeopin 14.1.2.1
          30 May 2015 at 1:17 am

          A few stupid thoughts for the money changers to think about:

          * Greed, and the love of money and power is the root of all evil.

          * ‘For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?’

          * How Much Land Does a Man Need?

          “Ah, what a fine fellow!” exclaimed the Chief. “He has gained
          much land!”

          Pahom’s servant came running up and tried to raise him, but he saw
          that blood was flowing from his mouth. Pahom was dead!
          The Bashkirs clicked their tongues to show their pity.

          His servant picked up the spade and dug a grave long enough for
          Pahom to lie in, and buried him in it. Six feet from his head to his heels was all he needed.
          Ref: http://www.online-literature.com/tolstoy/2738/

  15. millsy 15
    30 May 2015 at 12:53 am

    Sometimes, John, there others returns that matter more than dividends and returns on investment. We wouldnt have half the stuff we have now if it had to make a profit or pay a dividend.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
    Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
    In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
    Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
    Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
    Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
    Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
    Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 hours ago

  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
    In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
    A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 hours ago

  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    “You talking about me?”  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    Bowalley Road
    6 hours ago

  • A crisis of ambition
    Roger Partridge  writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 hours ago

  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
    Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 hours ago

  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
    Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    7 hours ago

  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    8 hours ago

  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    11 hours ago

  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours ago

  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours ago

  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours ago

  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours ago

  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
    Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    14 hours ago

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    14 hours ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    14 hours ago

  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
    The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    14 hours ago

  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
    Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    14 hours ago

  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    20 hours ago

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    Skeptical Science
    22 hours ago

  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    23 hours ago

  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    24 hours ago

  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago

  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago

  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • Melissa Lee and the media: ending the quest
    Chris Trotter writes –  MELISSA LEE should be deprived of her ministerial warrant. Her handling – or non-handling – of the crisis engulfing the New Zealand news media has been woeful. The fate of New Zealand’s two linear television networks, a question which the Minister of Broadcasting, Communications ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • The Hoon around the week to April 19
    TL;DR: The podcast above features co-hosts and , along with regular guests Robert Patman on Gaza and AUKUS II, and on climate change.The six things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • The ‘Humpty Dumpty’ end result of dismantling our environmental protections
    Policymakers rarely wish to make plain or visible their desire to dismantle environmental policy, least of all to the young. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: Here’s the top five news items of note in climate news for Aotearoa-NZ this week, and a discussion above between Bernard Hickey and The Kākā’s climate correspondent ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Nicola's Salad Days.
    I like to keep an eye on what’s happening in places like the UK, the US, and over the ditch with our good mates the Aussies. Let’s call them AUKUS, for want of a better collective term. More on that in a bit.It used to be, not long ago, that ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    1 day ago

  • Study sees climate change baking in 19% lower global income by 2050
    TL;DR: The global economy will be one fifth smaller than it would have otherwise been in 2050 as a result of climate damage, according to a new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) and published in the journal Nature. (See more detail and analysis below, and ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Weekly Roundup 19-April-2024
    It’s Friday again. Here’s some of the things that caught our attention this week. This Week on Greater Auckland On Tuesday Matt covered at the government looking into a long tunnel for Wellington. On Wednesday we ran a post from Oscar Simms on some lessons from Texas. AT’s ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    1 day ago

  • Jack Vowles: Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  The data is from February this ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago

  • Clearing up confusion (or trying to)
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters is understood to be planning a major speech within the next fortnight to clear up the confusion over whether or not New Zealand might join the AUKUS submarine project. So far, there have been conflicting signals from the Government. RNZ reported the Prime Minister yesterday in ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago

  • How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log iPhone Without Computer
    How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log on iPhone Without a Computer: A Step–by–Step Guide Losing your iPhone call history can be frustrating, especially when you need to find a specific number or recall an important conversation. But before you panic, know that there are ways to retrieve deleted call logs on your iPhone, even without a computer. This guide will explore various methods, ranging from simple checks to utilizing iCloud backups and third–party applications. So, let‘s dive in and recover those lost calls! 1. Check Recently Deleted Folder: Apple understands that accidental deletions happen. That‘s why they introduced the “Recently Deleted“ folder for various apps, including the Phone app. This folder acts as a safety net, storing deleted call logs for up to 30 days before permanently erasing them. Here‘s how to check it: Open the Phone app on your iPhone. Tap on the “Recents“ tab at the bottom. Scroll to the top and tap on “Edit“. Select “Show Recently Deleted“. Browse the list to find the call logs you want to recover. Tap on the desired call log and choose “Recover“ to restore it to your call history. 2. Restore from iCloud Backup: If you regularly back up your iPhone to iCloud, you might be able to retrieve your deleted call log from a previous backup. However, keep in mind that this process will restore your entire phone to the state it was in at the time of the backup, potentially erasing any data added since then. Here‘s how to restore from an iCloud backup: Go to Settings > General > Reset. Choose “Erase All Content and Settings“. Follow the on–screen instructions. Your iPhone will restart and show the initial setup screen. Choose “Restore from iCloud Backup“ during the setup process. Select the relevant backup that contains your deleted call log. Wait for the restoration process to complete. 3. Explore Third–Party Apps (with Caution): ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How to Factory Reset iPhone without Computer: A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring your Device
    Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs necessitate wiping your iPhone clean and starting anew. Whether you’re facing persistent software glitches, preparing to sell your device, or simply wanting a fresh start, knowing how to factory reset iPhone without a computer is a valuable skill. While using a computer with ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How to Call Someone on a Computer: A Guide to Voice and Video Communication in the Digital Age
    Gone are the days when communication was limited to landline phones and physical proximity. Today, computers have become powerful tools for connecting with people across the globe through voice and video calls. But with a plethora of applications and methods available, how to call someone on a computer might seem ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #16 2024
    Open access notables Glacial isostatic adjustment reduces past and future Arctic subsea permafrost, Creel et al., Nature Communications: Sea-level rise submerges terrestrial permafrost in the Arctic, turning it into subsea permafrost. Subsea permafrost underlies ~ 1.8 million km2 of Arctic continental shelf, with thicknesses in places exceeding 700 m. Sea-level variations over glacial-interglacial cycles control ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Where on a Computer is the Operating System Generally Stored? Delving into the Digital Home of your ...
    The operating system (OS) is the heart and soul of a computer, orchestrating every action and interaction between hardware and software. But have you ever wondered where on a computer is the operating system generally stored? The answer lies in the intricate dance between hardware and software components, particularly within ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Many Watts Does a Laptop Use? Understanding Power Consumption and Efficiency
    Laptops have become essential tools for work, entertainment, and communication, offering portability and functionality. However, with rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, understanding a laptop’s power consumption is more important than ever. So, how many watts does a laptop use? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward. It depends on several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How to Screen Record on a Dell Laptop A Guide to Capturing Your Screen with Ease
    Screen recording has become an essential tool for various purposes, such as creating tutorials, capturing gameplay footage, recording online meetings, or sharing information with others. Fortunately, Dell laptops offer several built-in and external options for screen recording, catering to different needs and preferences. This guide will explore various methods on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Laptop Screen? Navigating Repair Options and Costs
    A cracked or damaged laptop screen can be a frustrating experience, impacting productivity and enjoyment. Fortunately, laptop screen repair is a common service offered by various repair shops and technicians. However, the cost of fixing a laptop screen can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article delves into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last? Demystifying Lifespan and Maximizing Longevity
    Gaming laptops represent a significant investment for passionate gamers, offering portability and powerful performance for immersive gaming experiences. However, a common concern among potential buyers is their lifespan. Unlike desktop PCs, which allow for easier component upgrades, gaming laptops have inherent limitations due to their compact and integrated design. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Climate Change: Turning the tide
    The annual inventory report of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions has been released, showing that gross emissions have dropped for the third year in a row, to 78.4 million tons: All-told gross emissions have decreased by over 6 million tons since the Zero Carbon Act was passed in 2019. ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago

  • How to Unlock Your Computer A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Access
    Experiencing a locked computer can be frustrating, especially when you need access to your files and applications urgently. The methods to unlock your computer will vary depending on the specific situation and the type of lock you encounter. This guide will explore various scenarios and provide step-by-step instructions on how ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Faxing from Your Computer A Modern Guide to Sending Documents Digitally
    While the world has largely transitioned to digital communication, faxing still holds relevance in certain industries and situations. Fortunately, gone are the days of bulky fax machines and dedicated phone lines. Today, you can easily send and receive faxes directly from your computer, offering a convenient and efficient way to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Protecting Your Home Computer A Guide to Cyber Awareness
    In our increasingly digital world, home computers have become essential tools for work, communication, entertainment, and more. However, this increased reliance on technology also exposes us to various cyber threats. Understanding these threats and taking proactive steps to protect your home computer is crucial for safeguarding your personal information, finances, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Server-Based Computing Powering the Modern Digital Landscape
    In the ever-evolving world of technology, server-based computing has emerged as a cornerstone of modern digital infrastructure. This article delves into the concept of server-based computing, exploring its various forms, benefits, challenges, and its impact on the way we work and interact with technology. Understanding Server-Based Computing: At its core, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Vroom vroom go the big red trucks
    The absolute brass neck of this guy.We want more medical doctors, not more spin doctors, Luxon was saying a couple of weeks ago, and now we’re told the guy has seven salaried adults on TikTok duty. Sorry, doing social media. The absolute brass neck of it. The irony that the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago

  • Jones finds $410,000 to help the government muscle in on a spat project
    Buzz from the Beehive Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones relishes spatting and eagerly takes issue with environmentalists who criticise his enthusiasm for resource development. He relishes helping the fishing industry too. And so today, while the media are making much of the latest culling in the public service to ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago

  • Again, hate crimes are not necessarily terrorism.
    Having written, taught and worked for the US government on issues involving unconventional warfare and terrorism for 30-odd years, two things irritate me the most when the subject is discussed in public. The first is the Johnny-come-lately academics-turned-media commentators who … Continue reading → ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    2 days ago

  • Despair – construction consenting edition
    Eric Crampton writes – Kainga Ora is the government’s house building agency. It’s been building a lot of social housing. Kainga Ora has its own (but independent) consenting authority, Consentium. It’s a neat idea. Rather than have to deal with building consents across each different territorial authority, Kainga Ora ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Coalition promises – will the Govt keep the commitment to keep Kiwis equal before the law?
    Muriel Newman writes – The Coalition Government says it is moving with speed to deliver campaign promises and reverse the damage done by Labour. One of their key commitments is to “defend the principle that New Zealanders are equal before the law.” To achieve this, they have pledged they “will not advance ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • An impermanent public service is a guarantee of very little else but failure
    Chris Trotter writes –  The absence of anything resembling a fightback from the public servants currently losing their jobs is interesting. State-sector workers’ collective fatalism in the face of Coalition cutbacks indicates a surprisingly broad acceptance of impermanence in the workplace. Fifty years ago, lay-offs in the thousands ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • What happens after the war – Mariupol
    Mariupol, on the Azov Sea coast, was one of the first cities to suffer almost complete destruction after the start of the Ukraine War started in late February 2022. We remember the scenes of absolute destruction of the houses and city structures. The deaths of innocent civilians – many of ...
    Open ParachuteBy Ken
    2 days ago

  • Babies and benefits – no good news
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – Ten years ago, I wrote the following in a Listener column: Every year around one in five new-born babies will be reliant on their caregivers benefit by Christmas. This pattern has persisted from at least 1993. For Maori the number jumps to over one in three.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Should the RBNZ be looking through climate inflation?
    Climate change is expected to generate more and more extreme events, delivering a sort of structural shock to inflation that central banks will have to react to as if they were short-term cyclical issues. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours, as of 9:16 am on Thursday, April 18 are:Housing: Tauranga residents living in boats, vans RNZ Checkpoint Louise TernouthHousing: Waikato councillor says wastewater plant issues could hold up Sleepyhead building a massive company town Waikato Times Stephen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell on the public sector carnage, and misogyny as terrorism
    It’s a simple deal. We pay taxes in order to finance the social services we want and need. The carnage now occurring across the public sector though, is breaking that contract. Over 3,000 jobs have been lost so far. Many are in crucial areas like Education where the impact of ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    2 days ago

  • Meeting the Master Baiters
    Hi,A friend had their 40th over the weekend and decided to theme it after Curb Your Enthusiasm fashion icon Susie Greene. Captured in my tiny kitchen before I left the house, I ending up evoking a mix of old lesbian and Hillary Clinton — both unintentional.Me vs Hillary ClintonIf you’re ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    3 days ago

  • How extreme was the Earth's temperature in 2023
    This is a re-post from Andrew Dessler at the Climate Brink blog In 2023, the Earth reached temperature levels unprecedented in modern times. Given that, it’s reasonable to ask: What’s going on? There’s been lots of discussions by scientists about whether this is just the normal progression of global warming or if something ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • Backbone, revisited
    The schools are on holiday and the sun is shining in the seaside village and all day long I have been seeing bunches of bikes; Mums, Dads, teens and toddlers chattering, laughing, happy, having a bloody great time together. Cheers, AT, for the bits of lane you’ve added lately around the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Ministers are not above the law
    Today in our National-led authoritarian nightmare: Shane Jones thinks Ministers should be above the law: New Zealand First MP Shane Jones is accusing the Waitangi Tribunal of over-stepping its mandate by subpoenaing a minister for its urgent hearing on the Oranga Tamariki claim. The tribunal is looking into the ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • What’s the outfit you can hear going down the gurgler? Probably it’s David Parker’s Oceans Sec...
    Buzz from the Beehive Point  of Order first heard of the Oceans Secretariat in June 2021, when David Parker (remember him?) announced a multi-agency approach to protecting New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and fisheries. Parker (holding the Environment, and Oceans and Fisheries portfolios) broke the news at the annual Forest & ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    9 hours ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government focused on getting people into work
    Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has made further appointments to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand as part of a continued effort to ensure the Scott Base Redevelopment project is delivered in a cost-effective and efficient manner.  The Minister has appointed Neville Harris as a new member of the Board. Mr ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Finance Minister travels to Washington DC
    Finance Minister Nicola Willis will travel to the United States on Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Five Finance Ministers group, with counterparts from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.  “I am looking forward to meeting with our Five Finance partners on how we can work ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords
    The coalition Government has today announced purrfect and pawsitive changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to give tenants with pets greater choice when looking for a rental property, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “Pets are important members of many Kiwi families. It’s estimated that around 64 per cent of New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Long Tunnel for SH1 Wellington being considered
    State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the Government has also asked NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to consider and provide advice on a Long Tunnel option, Transport Minister Simeon Brown ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • New Zealand condemns Iranian strikes
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have condemned Iran’s shocking and illegal strikes against Israel.    “These attacks are a major challenge to peace and stability in a region already under enormous pressure," Mr Luxon says.    "We are deeply concerned that miscalculation on any side could ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Huge interest in Government’s infrastructure plans
    Hundreds of people in little over a week have turned out in Northland to hear Regional Development Minister Shane Jones speak about plans for boosting the regional economy through infrastructure. About 200 people from the infrastructure and associated sectors attended an event headlined by Mr Jones in Whangarei today. Last ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Health Minister thanks outgoing Health New Zealand Chair
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has today thanked outgoing Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Chair Dame Karen Poutasi for her service on the Board.   “Dame Karen tendered her resignation as Chair and as a member of the Board today,” says Dr Reti.  “I have asked her to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Roads of National Significance planning underway
    The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has signalled their proposed delivery approach for the Government’s 15 Roads of National Significance (RoNS), with the release of the State Highway Investment Proposal (SHIP) today, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.  “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Navigating an unstable global environment
    New Zealand is renewing its connections with a world facing urgent challenges by pursuing an active, energetic foreign policy, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “Our country faces the most unstable global environment in decades,” Mr Peters says at the conclusion of two weeks of engagements in Egypt, Europe and the United States.    “We cannot afford to sit back in splendid ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ welcomes Australian Governor-General
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced the Australian Governor-General, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley and his wife Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, will make a State visit to New Zealand from Tuesday 16 April to Thursday 18 April. The visit reciprocates the State visit of former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pseudoephedrine back on shelves for Winter
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced that Medsafe has approved 11 cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pharmaceutical suppliers have indicated they may be able to supply the first products in June. “This is much earlier than the original expectation of medicines being available by 2025. The Government recognised ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ and the US: an ever closer partnership
    New Zealand and the United States have recommitted to their strategic partnership in Washington DC today, pledging to work ever more closely together in support of shared values and interests, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.    “The strategic environment that New Zealand and the United States face is considerably more ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Joint US and NZ declaration
    April 11, 2024 Joint Declaration by United States Secretary of State the Honorable Antony J. Blinken and New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs the Right Honourable Winston Peters We met today in Washington, D.C. to recommit to the historic partnership between our two countries and the principles that underpin it—rule ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-20T06:05:18+00:00