A trip down faulty memory lane

Written By: - Date published: 8:45 pm, October 17th, 2012 - 69 comments
Categories: john key, Minister for Photo-ops, slippery - Tags: , ,

One of the fishy elements of the GCSB-Dotcom-Key saga (along with the literally unbelievable ineptitude of the GCSB, the timing of Key’s visit to the White House coinciding with the denial of Dotcom’s OIO application, time timing of the ministerial certificate when Key was again out of the country in the US, and the ‘oversight’ of Neazor) is Key’s suddenly very faulty memory. This is a guy who will quote you stock and exchange prices from 25 years ago but can’t remember basic facts in this major issue. Here’s a partial list of things Key can’t recall, isn’t sure about, or doesn’t know – just from his answers in the House and just the last 3 days he has answered questions.

 

  • Whether staff from other Departments that he is minister of were involved in the Dotcom raid

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 26 September 2012

David Shearer: Is he aware of any involvement by staff from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the SIS, or the National Assessments Bureau in the Dotcom case; if so, what involvement was that?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I am not sure about the latter two, the SIS and the National Assessments Bureau. The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet may have been advised. I do not know that—I would have to go and check that—but it is possible it would have known in that period when I was told on Monday the 17th.

 

  • Whether he received advice from other Departments that he is minister of in relation to the Dotcom raid

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 26 September 2012

David Shearer: Did he receive any advice from those agencies in the past 12 months in relation to the Kim Dotcom case?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: Not in relation to this issue. I was informed of that only on 17 September. Whether there was earlier advice on extradition and other matters, I am not sure. I do not think so.

 

  • When English told Key’s chief of staff about the Ministerial Certificate

Government Communications Security Bureau—Prime Ministerial Responsibility – 26 September 2012

Rt Hon Winston Peters: When was his chief of staff first informed about the Deputy Prime Minister signing a ministerial certificate on 16 August, which withheld information from the public regarding Government Communications Security Bureau operations in the Dotcom raid?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I do not exactly know, but to the best of my knowledge it was on Monday the 17th when I knew.

 

  • That he had been told about the GCSB’s illegal involvement in the Dotcom raid on February

Dotcom Case—Government Communications Security Bureau Briefings – 16 October 2012

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I seek leave to make a personal explanation to correct answers I gave to oral questions during the last sitting week.

Mr SPEAKER: Leave is sought for that purpose. Is there any objection? There is no objection.

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: A number of oral questions put to me and the Minister answering on my behalf in the House between 25 and 27 September were based on public statements by me that the first I knew of the Government Communications Security Bureau’s involvement in the Dotcom matter was on 17 September. That response was based on my recollection. It was shared by the director of the bureau.

A subsequent review of all material held by the bureau found that on 29 February I had viewed a presentation that was not related to the Dotcom file, during a visit to the bureau. I am advised that the talking points for the presentation included a short reference to the Dotcom arrest as an example of cooperation between the bureau and the police. The cover slide was a montage of 11 small images, one of which was of Dotcom. Neither the presentation nor the talking points were provided to me in hard copy. Neither the director of the bureau or I can recall the reference to the Dotcom matter during the visit, but I accept that it may well have been made.

I wish to make it clear that I was not briefed by the bureau on its role in the Dotcom matter, nor any issues of potential illegality, until Monday, 17 September. This information affects the answers to three specific supplementary questions during oral question No. 1 and oral question No. 10 on 26 September, and oral question No. 2 on 27 September, but I also accept that it did impact on the questions that were asked during the course of the week. My answers to questions were based on my recollection at the time and the view of the director. There was no intention to mislead the House.

 

  • When GCSB worked out its actions were illegal

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 16 October 2012

David Shearer: On what date did the Government Communications Security Bureau first become aware that its surveillance of Kim Dotcom was illegal?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: The first day that I was briefed by the Government Communications Security Bureau about it being illegal was likely to be the 17th.

David Shearer: Point of order—

Mr SPEAKER: I think I can predict the Leader of the Opposition’s point of order. The member actually asked on what date the Government Communications Security Bureau became aware that its investigation may have been illegal, not the date on which the Prime Minister was advised of that.

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I do not have that date to hand.

 

  • Which two other ministers he discussed the GCSB’s illegal actions with, in addition to the Attorney-General

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 16 October 2012

David Shearer: In light of his answer to written question No. 8353, where he confirmed that he discussed the Government Communications Security Bureau’s illegal surveillance of Dotcom with the Attorney-General but was unable to recall which other two Ministers he raised the issue with, can he now recall and tell the House who those other Ministers were?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: No.

 

  • The surname of his driver police guard who went to work for Dotcom last year and, Peters says, told Key about it (is this the serving Police Officer who was working for Dotcom at the time of his arrest?)

Dotcom Case—Government Communications Security Bureau Staffing – 17 October 2012

Rt Hon Winston Peters: Is he saying as Minister that a member of the Prime Minister’s protection squad with a record of 15 years’ service to Prime Ministers, including himself, never told him as Prime Minister of his intention to leave the Diplomatic Protection Squad to go to work for Kim Dotcom?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: The member is referring to a chap whose last name I do not know; his first name is Regan. He does not work for the Diplomatic Protection Squad; he works for—or he used to work for—VIP Transport Services in Auckland, and, no, I was not aware that he went to work for Kim Dotcom.

 

  • Which other ministers he discussed the GCSB’s unlawful actions with in addition to the Attorney-General

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 17 October 2012

David Shearer: Which of his ministerial colleagues, other than the Attorney-General, did he discuss the Government Communications Security Bureau’s unlawful surveillance of Mr Dotcom with prior to the bureau’s actions being made public?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I do not know the answer to those questions.

 

  • Actually, he’s not quite sure the Attorney-General was there, either, he thinks so (bear in mind, this meeting was in the last month and is surely recorded in ministers’ diaries)

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 17 October 2012

David Shearer: How, then, can he be sure he actually spoke to Ministers if he cannot actually recall who they were?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: I remember having a discussion; I think it was with the Attorney-General. I am sure there were another couple of Ministers there, but I do not recall who they were.

 

  • What he discussed with Simon Power in June 2011, although he’s sure it wasn’t Dotcom because he would have remembered for some reason, although he forgot that other time he was told about Dotcom

Dotcom Case—Actions of Government Communications Security Bureau – 17 October 2012

Rt Hon Winston Peters: How can the Prime Minister possibly give an assurance that that matter was not raised by the Hon Simon Power with him back in June 2011, as he just did, when in his formal writing to me in a written answer he said: “There is no record of what was discussed … and I have no recollection of the discussion.”? How can he reconcile those two statements: the one today and the written one in the House?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: Quite easily because I do not recall the exact conversation of why Simon came to me on that particular occasion, but I know for a fact it was not about Kim Dotcom.

 

  • The cost of a Bill that would help lift quarter of a million kids out of poverty if he would back it

Income Tax (Universalisation of In-work Tax Credit) Amendment Bill—Prime Minister’s Statements – 17 October 2012

Metiria Turei: Is the Prime Minister aware that my bill is an opportunity to lift 100,000 children out of poverty, but would have no effect at all on millionaires and the rich, who would remain ineligible for the in-work tax credit, just as they are now?

Rt Hon JOHN KEY: Yes, broadly I am aware of it, although I am also advised that if the in-work tax credit equivalent was paid to beneficiary families, it would cost more than $1.5 billion over 4 years. I do not know the financial costs of the member’s payment.

 

11 memory lapses in 3 question times. So, what do you think: does the Prime Minister have a serious memory problem that is impairing his ability to do his job, or is he lying to you?

Update: got to tip my hat to Te Reo Putake’s name for the PM: DunnoKeyo

69 comments on “A trip down faulty memory lane ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. toad 1
    17 October 2012 at 8:51 pm

    I guess the #JohnDotBanks disease is contagious.

    And Key has caught it big-time.

  2. ghostwhowalksnz 2
    17 October 2012 at 8:57 pm

    I think we have a case of the ‘rat brain’ taking over of Keys memory functions from the normal ‘reasoning brain’. Doesnt sound like the same person who rose to the top of his profession, in a highly competitive and intellectually demanding role in the heart of Wall St.

  3. Te Reo Putake 3
    17 October 2012 at 9:28 pm

    DunnoKeyo is my word of the day. Feel free to use it liberally, Standardistas.

  4. Clashman 4
    17 October 2012 at 9:58 pm

    It’s quite simple, he’s a liar.

    • tracey 4.1
      18 October 2012 at 5:17 pm

      he doesnt remember how he voted on the drinking age either. perhaps he and banks can get a discount on a brain scan

  5. Bob 5
    17 October 2012 at 10:00 pm

    It is very obvious isn’t it some people call it porkies
    Winston referred to it as lying on National Radio today!

    • Wychbych 5.1
      18 October 2012 at 9:06 am

      And Winston said it on the news last night – ‘He’s a liar and he can sue me if he wants’ (paraphrasing).

      Interesting he’s the only one to really call him out!

  6. Fisiani 6
    17 October 2012 at 10:09 pm

    Keep up the good work guys. Hours banging away and getting nowhere. You are almost close to nailing John Key. Please keep up the posts.

    • TightyRighty 6.1
      18 October 2012 at 6:30 am

      the epmu and the opposition parties just had anAWESOME jobs summit, the public are responding to the jobs issue, the education issues, the issues around the fuck up at MSD, and all labour want to do is try and score some minor points on an issue no one cares about. They can’t even do it right but have vested so much in this outcome that cheerleaders like eddie are ordered to keep waving the flag, even if it has become a stone round their necks.

      [lprent: I think that I or mike might be able to order Eddie to do something if it involved the good of the site like litigation. I don’t think anyone else could. And we don’t do it for editorial direction.

      And you are banned for two weeks. Reread the self-martyrdom offenses in the policy. ]

      • Dr Terry 6.1.1
        18 October 2012 at 9:57 am

        TR shows clearly his intelligence when he describes a flag as being a stone!

        [lprent: I think he showed it when he attacked an author not for what they had said but for something that is his pure speculation about the motivations of an author. He was just damn lucky I saw it after breakfast and couldn’t be bothered seeing if he’d been banned or warned about it before.

        If I’d seen it right now then he could have gotten 2 months. I’m much more cranky, have a better memory, and am more assiduous after programming for while. ]

    • bbfloyd 6.2
      18 October 2012 at 11:13 am

      Keep up the transferrance young fisssi……(or is that hissy)…You must have spent YEARS banging away for no more reward than to be publicly humiliated, and exposed as an ignoramus….

      Any day now, you will have nailed the title of “most incurable sociopathic tory dittohead” … And believe me, the competition for that particular gong is intense….There are a LOT of tory meatheads around trying to pretend they know things….

  7. PlanetOrphan 7
    17 October 2012 at 10:09 pm

    Indeed, if they start checking all the “Tabled” documents, they should be able to slaughter JK on anything.

    He’s always done this, for some reason it’s only starting to be “apparent” mainstream, although some media/journalists/reporters have highlighted it for some time.

    QA/Accountability is the real problem.

  8. blue leopard 8
    17 October 2012 at 10:28 pm

    I enjoyed Gerry Brownlee’s unusually astute comments in yesterday’s urgent debate:

    I am also very much in admiration of the Minister [Paula Bennett] for being so upfront in saying exactly what it is—an appalling breach of private security—and not trying to create any degree of obfuscation through various excuses that might have previously been offered by other Ministers…

    I was rather amused, astounded-yet relieved-that he would take a moment to be so frank in reference to his Dear Leader and Co…disappointing that he felt the need to add: “… and I speak about Ministers from other Governments in the past.”

    I guess this was to be expected in order to keep up [delusional] appearances, although I like to think that the first part of his comment really must have been his inner truth-speaker coming out uncontrollably for a few moments…

  9. ianmac 9
    17 October 2012 at 11:19 pm

    Another very recent Brain Fade for DunnoKeyo reported on Red Alert.
    Key said on TV3 that he voted for 20 Drinking Age.
    He must have forgotten that he voted for the 18 option.
    http://blog.labour.org.nz/2012/10/17/another-john-key-brain-fade/#comments

  10. BLiP 10
    17 October 2012 at 11:46 pm

    .

    Emergency services rushed to the Beehive this evening after a smoke alarm went off on the ninth floor of the Beehive.

    “Fortunately there wasn’t much to be worried about,” a spokesperson for the Fire Service said afterwards, “it was just a small blaze started when a pair of pants caught fire.”

  11. Josh 11
    18 October 2012 at 1:47 am

    Wait a minute…

    “The surname of his driver who went to work for Dotcom last year and, Peters says, told Key about it”

    Watch the video: http://inthehouse.co.nz/node/15538

    Key never said the “VIP Transport Service”. He said “VIPs in Auckland”. I thought he was referring to the VIP Protection Squad – see: http://www.policeassn.org.nz/newsroom/publications/featured-articles/-day-life-diplomatic-protection-service

    Bear in mind that a ‘serving police officer’, said to have served with the DPS, was working for Dotcom’s security team at the time of the raid: http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/dotcom-in-prang-as-over-the-top-raid-scrutinised-20120810-23y6k.html

    There has to be something more to this story. For a start, why would the NZ Police be providing Dotcom with personal protection? And second of all, how did Key know the person Peters was referring to? This just gets murkier.

  12. Glg 12
    18 October 2012 at 6:03 am

    Simon Powers resignation came at an unusual time in the electoral cycle. It is very convenient for Key that it was Power who prevented Dotcom from buying the Coatsville property, and it is possible Powers was more involved in the Dotcom case than we currently know.
    Interestingly one of Keys first responses to questions about What Powers knew was ” I dunno, and he’s gone now”…………..(Campbell Live)

    • Red Rosa 12.1
      18 October 2012 at 7:39 am

      Good thinking. Would DotCom have bought his way into NZ, against Simon Power’s objections, and then the US pressure would have come on?

      This case is all about money, and political influence at the highest level, via Banks and Key. DotCom got legal residence and been law abiding. His legal problems are with the US. The NZ illegal surveillance is just that – illegal. And DotCom has the money to hire serious lawyers. He can’t be intimidated like Bennett’s Bennies.

      Hard to believe that Key would not have been involved in this case, possibly right from DotCom’s arrival onwards. People like him do not arrive in NZ every day.

      And people like DotCom, arriving in spectacular fashion right in your electorate, and raising a ruckus with the locals and the FBI – to be ‘unaware’ of this is truly unbelievable.

      A carefully crafted scenario of ‘plausible deniability’ for Key is falling apart.

      The next chapter will be what ‘Agent CX’ has to say. Presumably the Official Secrets Act does not apply to acts of illegality in NZ?

      Certainly a space to watch.

    • Craig Glen Eden 12.2
      18 October 2012 at 9:27 am

      Power left way to early and also look where he ended up Westpac. Well bugger me fancy that. Simon Power a junior lawyer that became a MP and Cabinet minister ends up with a high flying job in Finance? How convenient!

      • idegus 12.2.1
        18 October 2012 at 11:24 am

        John Campbell also said all enquiries to John Keys Helensville office reagarding anything to do with Dotcom was referred to Simon Power (before the bust). So Powers was def involved in the loop(s).

        Its also incredible John Key can get away with not remembering who the other 2 ministers were that he talked to with Chris Finlayson.

        I thought Key would go with the BMW lies, seems a long time ago now…

  13. Jenny 13
    18 October 2012 at 7:08 am

    In Key speak, “I dunno”, has a different meaning to “I don’t know”. The latter is statement of fact. The former an arrogantly dismissive, I have decided not to tell you what I know.

    Look at the body language when he says it. The shoulder shrug, the dismissive glance away.

    I am lying and I don’t care if you know it.

    • One Tāne Huna 13.1
      18 October 2012 at 7:29 am

      I think the Prime Minister has things that he knows privately that he doesn’t know officially – it’s all about wiggle room.

      Thus “I dunno” translates as “The Prime Minister has received no official advice on this matter.”

      What he’s forgetting to do is advise himself.

      He’s going to say anything rather than give open and honest answers to these questions. The answers must be pretty bad.

      Either that or the rumours he wants out and has been refused permission are true, so he’s deliberately doing the worst job he possibly can in the hope they’ll sack him.

      PS: I see old Harry Palfrey’s been put out to pasture.

      • felix 13.1.1
        19 October 2012 at 12:38 am

        Yes I’ve been thinking this lately too. He’s riding on the idea that as the prime minister he doesn’t necessarily know about all the things that John Key knows about.

        • McFlock 13.1.1.1
          19 October 2012 at 12:57 am

          Robertson’s next question time: Does the Prime Minister have any confidence in the competence of John Key?

  14. Dr Terry 14
    18 October 2012 at 10:03 am

    Key does not care a damn who knows that he is always lying. The only thing that matters is that the constant lying seems to be working so well for him. His supporters ethical values do not embrace the sin of lying.

  15. Ted 15
    18 October 2012 at 10:12 am

    Key has an agenda, it is being pushed through – in fact most of the his plans are already completed if we look back – so he couldn’t care less what anyone thinks.
    He just sips in another breath, shrugs his shoulders and slithers away. No one has really laid a glove on the man – and it won’t until after he’s gone and there is an enquiry that will take 3 years to complete (ala Blair).
    Seriously, Key will complete this term and disappear to a top job at a bank somewhere – he couldn’t give a toss. Perhaps he will end up in the US (if civil war hasn’t broken out).

    • Glg 15.1
      18 October 2012 at 10:38 am

      My first thought when I read about Key not trying any more was “whatever reward he was expecting, he got it while overseas, and doesn’t have to maintain the facade”. I think he got US Citizenship. (no proof or evidence at all to back that up, by the way). I can’t think what else his US masters could do for him?
      I also think he’d be gone by lunchtime, but he needs to cover up the Dotcom thing or his knighthood might be in danger.

  16. Red Rosa 16
    18 October 2012 at 11:13 am

    There seem to be two direct and well documented challenges this week to government credibility.

    1. Bennett’s statement to parliament that she had not released any personal data on beneficiaries, when the Privacy Commissioner found that she had.

    2. Peters’ accusation of Key’s lying, on the TV news last evening. Breathtaking stuff.

    Difficult to see how these can be avoided. And if they can’t be refuted, what then?

    It is not often in NZ that there are (serious) calls for the government to resign. Perhaps the time has come.

    Maybe someone can supply chapter, verse and the links for the above?

    • Fisiani 16.1
      18 October 2012 at 11:31 pm

      Get it right. Paula Bennett was accused in parliament of leaking information. She did NOT leak it, She was quite upfront about correcting a the wrong impression given by the media.

      • felix 16.1.1
        19 October 2012 at 12:48 am

        The terminology in the question was “release”, not “leak”.

        She answered that she didn’t “leak”, which to an idiot sounds like she answered the question.

        She did that because she’s a deceptive person. And you fell for it because you’re an easily deceived person.

      • mike 16.1.2
        19 October 2012 at 1:02 am

        Wow, it’s like you think we’re foolish for not being as stupid as you are.

  17. Plan B 17
    18 October 2012 at 1:06 pm

    Re the GCSB Camera in the cafe- cameras these days are computers- with internal memory

    1. Has it been confirmed the there was a camera present?

    2. Is the location of the camera right now known?

    3. If so it may be possible to look at the internal (non removable)memory of the camera to look at the log and see when it was recording- not this would mean that someone had set the clock correctly on the camera in the first place-

    So if the camera exists and if the camera’s clock had been set when they got it then the camera could be easily analysed to see when it was used- i.e. when it was recording.- even if the clock is wrong it would still be able to be determined when it was recording

    Ok some big ifs in there. Maybe worth getting it checked out by an expert

  18. Maggie May 18
    18 October 2012 at 2:54 pm

    The National government has one Minister with onset Alzheimers and a Prime Minister with brain fade….

    One would think both medical conditions would rule them out for being the offical carers of a country of four and a half million souls in the year of 2012.

    What is going to be the future of our country, souless leaders will create a souless nation- perhaps a souless nation is easier to control and that’s the plan.

    • Colonial Viper 18.1
      18 October 2012 at 3:00 pm

      What is going to be the future of our country, souless leaders will create a souless nation- perhaps a souless nation is easier to control and that’s the plan.

      It’s broken, souless people who are easiest to control.

      That’s why they smash away at employment and housing security, smash away at education and training prospects, smash away at the job market and at wage levels, smash away at peoples’ sense of self worth and self confidence.

      • Rogue Trooper 18.1.1
        18 October 2012 at 5:18 pm

        After todays revelations I’m gonna soberly finish up here Viper.
        Thanks
        (beware entrapment in the net)
        🙂

  19. Herodotus 19
    18 October 2012 at 8:17 pm

    The Prime Minister has today apologised for misleading the public after comments in a 3 News story last night on the drinking age.
    Read more: http://www.3news.co.nz/Key-apologises-for-drinking-age-brain-fade/tabid/1607/articleID/273258/Default.aspx#ixzz29dF0odyF
    At least Key is learning to take ownership of when he is made aware that on a few occasions he gets it wrong/caught out
    Makes you wonder about this.
    http://auckland.scoop.co.nz/2012/08/national-mp-admits-about-alcohol-industry/

    “Following the purchase age debate last night, expect a government charm offensive to begin, aimed at convincing everyone that the government remains serious about alcohol-related harm and the urgent need for reform.”
    Or as in the S59 petition the question that was asked in parliament was ambiguous and many politicians were thinking that they voted one way (increasing the drinking age) and in fact were voting against their intentions (status quo)???

    At least Key is becoming very predictable in his behavior, we know what we are getting now !!

    • McFlock 19.1
      18 October 2012 at 8:35 pm

      At least Key is learning to take ownership of when he is made aware that on a few occasions he gets it wrong/caught out
             
      Lol. 
      Yes, he is exceptionally honest when clear evidence of a barefaced lie has caught him like a rat in a trap. 

    • mike 19.2
      19 October 2012 at 1:13 am

      At least the John ‘brain-fade’ Key meme is catching on in the MSM. Once that starts happening you don’t get many strikes before you’re out. Which has do be a worry for ol’ memory lapse since that been his go to card lately.

  20. prism 20
    18 October 2012 at 9:20 pm

    A you tube clip of a yes minister piece on the confused memory of politcians and how civil servants manage the taking of minutes of meetings. Sir Humphrey instructs Bernard, and asks what he wants from the exercise. Bernard says ‘A clear conscience’. Sir Humphrey asks seriously “And when did you get such a taste for luxury?’

    • ianmac 20.1
      18 October 2012 at 11:31 pm

      Yes Prism. Very apt. Pity about emails and video cameras and archives these days. Must make a Prime Minister like ours sleep poorly at night. Tough John.

  21. xtasy 21
    18 October 2012 at 11:16 pm

    EDDIE and others: Who gives a damned crappy whatever, this what you clearly and well present here MATTERS NOT!

    You are still a “fringe media”, “social media”, of which maybe a few hundred or a couple of a thousand “informed” and hopefully “intelligent” people know and bother to look up on.

    The MAINSTREAM dumbing down media continues with their agenda, and they are what still 3 quarters of the population rely on for “news”, like it or not. They listen to the propaganda from “ONE News”, “TV3” and other channels, under the regime of modern day “Goebbels” like media professionals in the background.

    So you raise valid points, but it does not reach enough, and it never will, with this approach, no matter how sincere and well-meaning it all is.

    This does NOT work I am afraid! It is a lost battle. More needs to be done.

    Maybe have initiative groups established to “re-claim” and occupy the public media that is supposed to be in public hands. What about an occupation of TVNZ? Throw the corrupt lot out and take over what is supposed to be the people’s broadcaster?

    But of course, you live in gaga land, the youth are all coward, busy to plan uni and other careers and their eventual OE exit (some for good). There are racial, ethnic, religious and political, certainly social divisions, which do not help. All are number one focused, so how are you going to change this.

    You have NO answers, I am afraid. Time for a REAL REVOLUTION! That takes more than talking and writing, I am afraid!

    • lprent 21.1
      18 October 2012 at 11:35 pm

      Your numbers are somewhat low. According to google analytics, there have been 28 thousand plus unique people reading the site over the last 30 or 31 days. Bots are excluded. Well over 95% from within NZ. It is somewhat lower than an election year, but a damn sight more even with some double counting by google than a few thousand.

    • mike 21.2
      19 October 2012 at 1:21 am

      Preparations for the revolution are in their final stage. For more details go to http://www.burnitalldown.com/

  22. tracey 22
    19 October 2012 at 1:34 pm

    He’s the only adult in NZ in 1981 who can’t remember what view they held on the Springbok Tour…

  23. jaymam 23
    19 October 2012 at 1:37 pm

    http://www.DunnoKeyo.com and http://www.DunnoKeyo.co.nz are both available. They could be useful next election.

  24. weka 24
    19 October 2012 at 11:15 pm

    I can feel a musical coming on…
     
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxJ2sy299eg (you probably have to be over 40 to appreciate this)


    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?

    Tell me lies and your nose will grow

    With that poor wooden part

    That you call a heart

    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?

    You are just a Dunnokeyo boy

    In the shape

    Of a marionette toy

    But if I cut the strings

    And let your heart sing

    Will you give me life full of joy?

    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?

    Tell me lies and your nose will grow

    With that poor wooden part

    That you call a heart

    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?

    You are just a Dunnokeyo man

    In the grip

    Of Gupetto’s hand

    But if I cut the twine

    Will you say your mine

    And share all the things that we planned

    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?

    Tell me lies and your nose will grow

    With that poor wooden part

    That you call a heart

    Do you love me Dunnokeyo?
     

    • weka 24.1
      19 October 2012 at 11:19 pm

      And then there is this 👿
       
      Pinocchio does excellently in school and passes with high honors. The Fairy promises that Pinocchio will be a real boy next day and says he should invite all his friends to a party. He goes to invite everyone, but he is sidetracked when he meets a boy named Romeo—nicknamed Lampwick because he is so tall and skinny. Lampwick is about to go to a place called Toyland, where everyone plays all day and never works. Pinocchio goes along with him and they have a wonderful time in the land of Play—until one morning Pinocchio awakes with donkey ears. A Squirrel tells him that boys who do nothing but play and never work always grow into donkeys.
       

      Within a short while Pinocchio has become a donkey. He is sold to a circus and is trained to do all kinds of tricks. Then one night in the circus he falls and sprains his leg. The circus owner sells the donkey to a man who wants to skin him and make a drum. The man throws the donkey into the sea to drown him—and brings up a living wooden boy. Pinocchio explains that the fish ate all the donkey skin off of him and he is now a marionette again.
       
       
      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Adventures_of_Pinocchio#As_a_donkey

Links to post

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Defence industry talent, commitment recognised
    Defence Minister Judith Collins tonight announced the recipients of the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry, saying they all contribute to New Zealanders’ security and wellbeing. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients, whose innovative products and services play a critical role in the delivery of New Zealand’s defence capabilities, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 hour ago

  • Speech to the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry
    Welcome to you all - it is a pleasure to be here this evening.I would like to start by thanking Greg Lowe, Chair of the New Zealand Defence Industry Advisory Council, for co-hosting this reception with me. This evening is about recognising businesses from across New Zealand and overseas who in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 hour ago

  • Speech to the Sixth Annual New Zealand Government Data Summit
    It is a pleasure to be speaking to you as the Minister for Digitising Government.  I would like to thank Akolade for the invitation to address this Summit, and to acknowledge the great effort you are making to grow New Zealand’s digital future. Today, we stand at the cusp of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 hours ago

  • Ceasefire agreement needed now: Peters
    New Zealand is urging both Israel and Hamas to agree to an immediate ceasefire to avoid the further humanitarian catastrophe that military action in Rafah would unleash, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “The immense suffering in Gaza cannot be allowed to worsen further. Both sides have a responsibility to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    8 hours ago

  • Daily school attendance data now available
    A new online data dashboard released today as part of the Government’s school attendance action plan makes more timely daily attendance data available to the public and parents, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour.  The interactive dashboard will be updated once a week to show a national average of how ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    8 hours ago

  • Ambassador to United States appointed
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced Rosemary Banks will be New Zealand’s next Ambassador to the United States of America.    “Our relationship with the United States is crucial for New Zealand in strategic, security and economic terms,” Mr Peters says.    “New Zealand and the United States have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    11 hours ago

  • New permit proposed for recreational gold mining
    The Government is considering creating a new tier of minerals permitting that will make it easier for hobby miners to prospect for gold. “New Zealand was built on gold, it’s in our DNA. Our gold deposits, particularly in regions such as Otago and the West Coast have always attracted fortune-hunters. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    13 hours ago

  • NZ and the UAE launch FTA negotiations
    Minister for Trade Todd McClay today announced that New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA). Minister McClay met with his counterpart UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Dubai, where they announced the launch of negotiations on a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    16 hours ago

  • New Zealand Sign Language Week an opportunity for anyone to sign
    New Zealand Sign Language Week is an excellent opportunity for all Kiwis to give the language a go, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. This week (May 6 to 12) is New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week. The theme is “an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere” and aims to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Next stop NASA for New Zealand students
    Six tertiary students have been selected to work on NASA projects in the US through a New Zealand Space Scholarship, Space Minister Judith Collins announced today. “This is a fantastic opportunity for these talented students. They will undertake internships at NASA’s Ames Research Center or its Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • $1.9 billion investment to keep NZ safe from crime
    New Zealanders will be safer because of a $1.9 billion investment in more frontline Corrections officers, more support for offenders to turn away from crime, and more prison capacity, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says. “Our Government said we would crack down on crime. We promised to restore law and order, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • OECD reinforces need to control spending
    The OECD’s latest report on New Zealand reinforces the importance of bringing Government spending under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The OECD conducts country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The 2024 New Zealand survey was presented in Wellington today by OECD Chief Economist Clare Lombardelli.   ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Agreement delivers Local Water Done Well for Auckland
    The Government has delivered on its election promise to provide a financially sustainable model for Auckland under its Local Water Done Well plan. The plan, which has been unanimously endorsed by Auckland Council’s Governing Body, will see Aucklanders avoid the previously projected 25.8 per cent water rates increases while retaining ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with Germany
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today.    "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-07T09:25:29+00:00