Colin Craig does not want to disclose his view on gays

Written By: - Date published: 10:51 am, March 4th, 2014 - 70 comments
Categories: conservative party, russel norman, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags:

Colin Craig has announced that he has commenced proceedings against Russel Norman, or at least I think this is what he has done.

From his press release:

Craig Continues Push for Honesty

Colin Craig today advised that the defamation claim against Russell Norman will be split into two stages in the hope of fast tracking a court hearing.

“After extensive discussion and advice from my legal team, I’ve decided to proceed immediately against Mr Norman regarding his claims about the place of women,” says Mr Craig.

“Not only were Mr Norman’s comments entirely untrue, but they demonstrated a cavalier and reckless disregard for the truth.”

“Debates should be won by presenting the facts, not by corrupting them,” Mr Craig says. “I think the public deserve an honest debate.”

“A high standard of public debate is essential to a properly functioning democracy. I, like most New Zealanders, am tired of politicians corrupting the facts, making up stories, name calling, and generally behaving badly in political debate,” Mr Craig says.

“The reason the rest of Mr Norman’s comment will not be pursued in the first instance is that his lawyers have already indicated that discovery would include emails and other correspondence. Given the extensive debate around the redefinition of marriage, this is many hundreds, if not thousands of documents, and would result in prohibitive costs and time delays.”

“It is hoped by breaking the case into two stages, that a declaration of defamation may be obtained prior to the election this year.”

There is someone called Russell Norman who is really afraid that he may be served with papers for something he has not done.  The Greens co-leader is Russel Norman.

Effectively running two cases will make the claim considerably more expensive.  And if cost and the obligation to disclose documents relating to his views on homosexuality are the concern then I presume that he is signalling that he is not going to sue Norman for his comment on Craig’s views on gays.  Presuming this is the case it would be more honest to say so rather than saying that he is going to split the case into two stages.

70 comments on “Colin Craig does not want to disclose his view on gays ”

  1. aerobubble 1

    Sorry, but everyone knows Norman was at the big gay out festival, as leader of the Greens, talking to gays about historical beliefs of conservatives (that Craig has still failed to deny). How could any reasonable person see this as an attack on Craig the man and not Craig the leader of the conservative party.

    Normans laws should counter sue as its vexatious, as the sentence Norman is read, was read as a whole, any idiot can read between the lines, and I would be surprised if the judge did not throw out the case precisely because Colin Craig doesn’t understand the politics of the statement.

    Cripes what a diva. By taking a statement out of context of its place, whose saying it, where its being said, how its being said, to whom its being said, about what its being said and the full context of what is said, Craig hopes to vexatiously sue Norman. That can’t stand.

    Counter sue the ingrate.

  2. Zorr 2

    grabs popcorn

    Soon he should be starting proceedings against Air NZ over their use of chemtrails…

  3. adam 3

    Go colin, keep it up bro – now prove you don’t hold any sexist beliefs and no homophobic ones either.

    God I’m sick to death of WHITE privilege, and the defenders of it like colin I can’t think too hard it makes my head hurt craig.

    • weka 3.1

      “now prove you don’t hold any sexist beliefs and no homophobic ones either.”

      Heh, am looking forward to that too (although he’s dropping the homophobic part from the case). And not just any sexist beliefs, but sexist beliefs that are akin to thinking women’s place is in the kitchen.

  4. lprent 4

    Looks to me like Colin Craig didn’t figure out early enough what is required in the discovery stage of a defamation case. I wonder what he is scared will be found on a discovery on his views on homosexuality?

    His explanation simply doesn’t make sense. Since the Russel’s statement was made in a single sentence, trying to separate them is simply daft and I suspect is going to be a BIG ask of a judge.

    “A vote for John Key is a vote for Colin Craig,” Dr Norman told TV crews following him around the event, adding, “Now the thing about Colin Craig is he thinks that a woman’s place is in the kitchen and a gay man’s place is in the closet.

    It also leaves Colin Craig open to an immediate countersuit. After all his reputation has been besmirched by Colin Craig’s reaction to this statement. I suspect a judge would look kindly on joining the two cases since they are about the truth or otherwise of the same statement.

  5. Enough is Enough 5

    This may be political.

    This is like Winnie screaming the Chinese have bought Huka Lodge. It is bullshit but the red necks hear those words and think ‘yeah go get em Winnie!”

    Colin has a following of conservative religous nutters who would happily have Uganda type laws in New Zealand. Colin’s bigotry being highlighted (at the same time he is denying it) is a dog whistle to the gay hating followers who will hear again and again Colin’s comments.

  6. Rodel 6

    I hope costs (judges, court clerks etc.) will be met by Mr Colin..or somebody other than us.
    But then I expect to pay if I go to watch a circus.

  7. Skinny 7

    Collin Craig is doing more harm than good the changes of the Conservative Party getting over the 5% threshold to get into parliament with his foolish decision to proceed to court.

    His odds of a successful ruling would be less than 70-1, any lawyer worth their salt giving a legal opinion would back my view of his chances. Why? Because leaders of political party’s have more leeway to bustle and tussle when speaking publicly against each others views.

    In saying that I think Norman has lost the plot by not choosing to silence Craig by a partial apology. I can not see any political gains for the Greens. And meanwhile Labour trumps the Greens with the Rena wreck clean up proposal.

    • Clemgeopin 7.1

      It is the lawyers! The lawyers! They are laughing away on their way to the banks during the day and ROFL in the night too!

  8. felix 8

    ahem Co-Leader

    [lprent: fixed ]

    • Hayden 8.1

      Co-leader is a kind of leader… 😉

    • mickysavage 8.2

      Feck. It has been a tough day …

      • One Anonymous Bloke 8.2.1

        Not surprised. What the feck were you thinking?

        The third gaffe had me thinking that once is SNAFU, twice is coincidence, but the third time it’s enemy action.

  9. Tracey 9

    ok. had a chuckle. nothing to hide, nothing to fear. sound familiar? like johnny banks,craig has nothing to hide but doesnt want some stuff seen or heard.

  10. Tracey 10

    skinny

    perhaps because it keeps the greens in the news and constantly reminds people what craig really stands for and the danger associated with a govt including him.

    the greens should have connections that enable them to find a pro bono lawyer. hell, norman should defend himself.

    • Skinny 10.1

      It looks what it is Tracey a silly petty little sideshow that a major political party’s Co Leader shouldn’t get engaged in. Craig is grandstanding and after the man on the moon nonsense is hardly credible to many outside the wacko bible sector.

      Norman has lost mana with me allowing himself to get distracted. He already has the runs on the board within his support base, however I see this silly little scuffle he chooses to engage in as off putting and slightly mad. The Green party has done well to remove the ‘mad’ tag hang on them by NACT. In one foolish move Norman has single handedly exposed them to ridicule.

      • North 10.1.1

        So Skinny, what was Norman meant to do ? Apologise ? Or run away and hide ? It’s Craig who farted. Why should Norman own the stink ? Frankly, for me Norman and the Greens are looking more and more and more attractive all the time.

        • Naturesong 10.1.1.1

          I concur, Russel should apologise:

          “I’m sorry that Colin Craig thinks that a woman’s place is in the kitchen and a gay man’s place is in the closet”

          That ought to do it 😈

  11. captain hook 11

    Colin Craig is a first class nincompoop and theologaster who thinks because he has a lot of money then he is intelligent.
    Amy judge who listens to his drivel will probably warn him about wasting the courts time.

  12. Tracey 12

    as a green supporter i disagree. it hasnt undermined my desire to vote for them.

    craig is trying to shut down discourse using his money through the legal syste. the greens are saying that money wont shut them down.

  13. “…I’ve decided to proceed immediately against Mr Norman regarding his claims about the place of women,” says Mr Craig.

    In other words, he accepts the comment about his attitude to gays was true and in no way defamatory…

    • lprent 13.1

      In other words,

      Nope. He is saying that he will want to proceed on that claim later. Can’t see how he can try to separate them since they are in the same sentence and he has objected to them both.

  14. George D 14

    Mr Colin Craig is welcome to use the correct title for Dr Russel Norman, or refer to him simply by his name.

    National should be worried if the Greens or Labour are able to effectively align Craig with Key in the minds of National-voting women, particularly younger women. A lot of that support is reasonably soft – it drifted over from the Clark Government – and can drift back again. A net negative like this is a huge gift for the left, which is why Key is gently talking Craig down.

    • Te Reo Putake 14.1

      Dya think it might help if a few opposition MP’s ‘accidently’ refer to the PM as Colin Key or John Craig in the house?

      • One Anonymous Bloke 14.1.1

        Nah, but if they “accidentally” call him John Capill or John Garrett that might do some good.

  15. Aww 15

    Anyone else think that picture of Colin Craig looks a little like Tony Robbins?

    • North 15.1

      Nah, in a strange, Ivy League, Kelvinator door teeth, ludicrously coiffed, lantern jawed, Yankee sort of way, Tony Robbins was still sorta handsome. Craig’s picture,puts me in mind of ……….well, can’t say it. Prick’d sue my arse out of my modest whare. The dirty little Clearasil Kid. Sorry, shouldn’t be mean. Probably prays eyes firmly shut while shaving. That’s good, that’s good. Such is his solipsistic FAITH.

      Fuck, imagine Conservative Party board meetings with that vile old bottle blonde baggage Rankin Of The Jangling Ears in attendance. Oh to be a fly on the wall when Adultery’s on the agenda.

      Major screeching !

  16. MrSmith 16

    Craig is a Homophobic Bigot and the more publicity this gets the better, Collin Craig = John Key! keep saying it people.

    I will gladly donate to Normans defense fund.

    • North 16.1

      Yeah, notice how the superbly Crosby Fester briefed ShonKey Python is throwing brickbats at the squeaky nutter Craig…..”toughen up blah blah blah”. Distancing himself from the person but just slavering to give him East Coast Bays and rely on the nutter religious right to deliver up maybe 4 or 5 extra seats with party vote from those who slid right up the Bible and kid banging monster Capill, until he got busted for his perversion.

      Colin…….what a pussy. Too frightened to pursue the homo factor because discovery would show him to be the sick nutter he is. What a pussy ! Hope his lawyers charge him the mill’. To lose.

  17. Grumpy 17

    Seems like Colin gets the same crap legal advice as David Cunliffe.

  18. Pascal's bookie 18

    Worth bearing this in mind:

    http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1304/S00212/day-of-reckoning-still-to-come.htm

    It’s CC’s statement on the passage of marriage equality, and while it was roundly mocked at the time (rightly enough) it explains exactly why he wants binding referenda as a bottom line in coalition talks.

  19. NZ Jester 19

    So he is going to try to sue him multiple times over the one speech?
    What is the legal stance on that?
    There must be something in law to prevent him from taking multiple expensive cases against him on a single speech.

  20. Populuxe1 20

    Oh Russel is telling fibs. Colin doesn’t want Teh Gayz back in the closet. That just makes them far too hard to round up for the waterboard-the-gay-away camps he will build in Canterbury and the Waikato when he is elected Fuhrer.

  21. Craig is a either a liar or a fool, but probably both.

    He knows, or should have been advised, that discovery costs, if excessive, have to be paid by Norman. The procedure is to ask the court to declare that the costs are excessive.

    So the reason he’s trying to avoid providing evidence is that he knows it’s there and that it’s pretty nasty stuff, not the cost.

    If he’s stupid enough to go ahead with this the same will be found in his emails about women I have no doubt. Nasty bigoted fool.

  22. Jim 22

    Craig should just roll with Russel’s description. There’s probably 5% support out there for closet and kitchen anyway.

    • North 22.1

      That’s the madness of it……..there are those out there whom in ONE would vote for Craig on the score of the description AND applaud the litigation against Norman for the very description.

      Wow, people who voted about 5.6% for the Christian Coalition in an election not that many years ago are some really fucked up folks. And they’re still out there, semi-erect, just dying for the gravy stroke.

      The very people ShonKey Python’s got his devious little eyes on. I genuinely fear that ShonKey Python will form the next government with the votes of those who would seek to ‘cure’ yours’ and their gay sons with electric shock treatment, while attesting in the name of God to their ‘love’ for them.

  23. tricledrown 23

    Colin craig looks like crusty the clown on the simpsons

  24. Clemgeopin 24

    Crazy Colin is coming across by his cunning and cowardly ‘splitting’ action as a complete hypocrite and a total time waster. What a nincompoop! Mr Norman refererd to Craig’s views on gays and women TOGETHER in the SAME sentence. He did not ‘split’ that into two issues. So it looks like Craig accepts one part of the sentence and not the other! To me, it appears that crazy Colin is scared to bring up his views on gays, because heart of heart he knows that Mr Norman actually hit the nail on the head! I suggest that Mr Norman should not let this fool get away with his smart ass tactics. Craig’s views on gays should also be a main part of the defense case. Doesn’t Craig understand that in politics and in the English language idioms, innuendos, analogies, interpretations, conclusions, ironies, similes, sarcasms ARE allowed. The way to fight it in politics is to counter argue and not run looking for comfort, solace and satisfaction under some court skirts! A dork with too much cash and a pea brain! Now sue me!

  25. Populuxe1 25

    So why is Russel now asking for donations to pay his legal fees in relation to comments on behalf of women and gay people neither grup actually asked him to make?

    • felix 25.1

      Actually he’s the co-leader of the third largest party in NZ, a progressive party with a strong commitment to equality for all.

      There are a lot of women and gay people in that party who absolutely expect him to stand up against homophobia and sexism, especially from those wanting to gain access to parliament and influence our laws.

      • Populuxe1 25.1.1

        I don’t remember Russel trying such tactics against John Banx who helf more or less identical views. In any case he needs to stick to attacking Cons policy, not ad hominem stuff like this which is beneath him. It’s like Bombast Bradbury bunching his panties over Jamie Whyte’s philosophical views on incest (revolting though they might be) when they have nothing to do with policy.
        The left needs to stay classy

        • felix 25.1.1.1

          “I don’t remember Russel trying such tactics… “

          lolz, I hardly think ‘being sued by reactionary idiot’ is a tactic. You have your subject and object the wrong way around.

    • McFlock 25.2

      probably in order to play up the “colin craig’s a rich bully” angle.
      You don’t have to donate if you don’t want to.

      • Populuxe1 25.2.1

        I shan’t. I find it distasteful when he can so obviously afford it himself and I suspect many of his supporters cannot. I had hoped the Greens were above such political shenanigans. Though I find the justification of such quips ironic to say the least in light of the Turei/Tolley exchange.

        • McFlock 25.2.1.1

          well, I don’t speak for the greens and I’ve not kept up with the news lately, so have no idea what you’re on about.

          I just reckon that the longer craig keeps being an idiot, the better it is for everyone.

          • McFlock 25.2.1.1.2

            yeah I took that at face value, the turia/tolley thing slips my mind though.

            • felix 25.2.1.1.2.1

              Tolley said “Turei isn’t allowed to wear a coat or live in a house”.

              Turei said “lolz racist”

              • McFlock

                that?
                WTF has that got to do with craig suing norman because norman [apparently, in my opinion] summed up what craig believes but is too cowardly to openly admit?

                • felix

                  I have no idea.

                • Populuxe1

                  Well if Turei is allowed to claim she’s being misrepresented, why not Craig? You’re probably right about him and he certainly is a homophobic dick, but putting words into other people’s mouths is a bit much

                  • McFlock

                    1: Turei wasn’t misrepresented – she pointed out that they don’t criticise e.g. Annette King for advocating against poverty while dressing non-opshop.

                    2: Craig is suing someone who had the nerve to describe what they believe his personal beliefs to be, and I don’t think norman was that far off. Turei didn’t even threaten to sue anyone, nor did toley.

                    3: Craig is welcome to claim he was misrepresented – but that’s not what he’s doing. He’s throwing his chequebook against someone who criticised him.

                    All Craig need do is say that norman was wrong, craig in fact believes homosexality should be legal, same-sex civil marriage is fine, point to his previous statements to support that case, and point to the number of women he’s promoted in his organisation and that his business has an obviously-implemented policy of diversity in employment from board of directors, through middle management, and down to the cleaning staff. If Craig did that, norman would look like an arse and the conservatives would leap in the polls.

                    That’s if norman is wrong, of course.

                    • Populuxe1

                      1: Turei wasn’t misrepresented – she pointed out that they don’t criticise e.g. Annette King for advocating against poverty while dressing non-opshop.

                      To be fair it was Turei who started that one by accusing Tolley of being out of touch with low income people – that is a subjective values statement based on assumptions, though Turei was free to provide concrete examples at any time. While Tolley’s bitchy response was classist and sanctimonious, it wasn’t racist. Turei calling it such, while not as frivolous as a law suit, was in the political arena just as damaging and I was dissapointed she chose to make it about her rather than attack National’s treatment of the poor.

                      2: Craig is suing someone who had the nerve to describe what they believe his personal beliefs to be, and I don’t think norman was that far off. Turei didn’t even threaten to sue anyone, nor did toley.

                      Well maybe rather than trying to imagine what people’s personally beliefs might be, we might stick to critcising their policies. Name-slinging, however accurate, alienates voters. The ladies handled with a tad more class than the gentlemen, but it still ends up looking like a petty spat.

                      3: Craig is welcome to claim he was misrepresented – but that’s not what he’s doing. He’s throwing his chequebook against someone who criticised him.

                      Burden of proof is on the accuser. Assumed innocent until proven guilty – it applies to arseholes like Craig as well.

                      All Craig need do is say that norman was wrong, craig in fact believes homosexality should be legal, same-sex civil marriage is fine, point to his previous statements to support that case, and point to the number of women he’s promoted in his organisation and that his business has an obviously-implemented policy of diversity in employment from board of directors, through middle management, and down to the cleaning staff. If Craig did that, norman would look like an arse and the conservatives would leap in the polls.

                      Actually no – he need only say that he doesn’t believe that women should stay in the kitchen (Conservatism has a diverse range of opinions and casting them as teabagger misogynists isn’t especially clever) – he employs women, so I doubt his views are as blunt as that. And what he personally feels about homosexuals is irrelevant so long as he says he has no intention of trying to repeal homosexual law reform and other legal protections of LGBT people.

                      That’s if norman is wrong, of course.

                      I don’t think he’s entirely wrong, but I don’t think he has Winston’s polish and chutzpah to be able to pull this sort of thing off without looking a bit like a chihuahua.

                    • McFlock

                      Turei calling it such, while not as frivolous as a law suit, was in the political arena just as damaging

                      Also a very plausible claim to make. Unlike Craig’s court case. Also cheaper, which suggests that Craig is simply a chequebook bully rather than a politician who can use his words.

                      Well maybe rather than trying to imagine what people’s personally beliefs might be, we might stick to critcising their policies.

                      And what about conscience votes in parliament? Will he put forward a private members bill to repeal same-sex marriage? Make abortion harder to get? Weaken the Human Rights Act? These are valid concerns that are foreshadowed by the character and beliefs of the representative. He might very well have no plans to do any of this, but might just decide during the term to put the “fun” in fundamentalist.

                      3: Craig is welcome to claim he was misrepresented – but that’s not what he’s doing. He’s throwing his chequebook against someone who criticised him.

                      Burden of proof is on the accuser. Assumed innocent until proven guilty – it applies to arseholes like Craig as well.

                      But Craig hasn’t been accused of a criminal matter, simply being a conservative dickhead. Which I believe he is.

                      he need only say that he doesn’t believe that women should stay in the kitchen

                      Indeed. Doesn’t need to use a chequebook at all – his readiness to do so probably says more against his character than anything another politician can say.

                      he employs women, so I doubt his views are as blunt as that.

                      Really? What proportion of staff in senior management or directorships are women? Unless it’s ~50/50, or even just roughly the same as the rest of new zealand, his actions speak louder than your words.

                      And what he personally feels about homosexuals is irrelevant so long as he says he has no intention of trying to repeal homosexual law reform and other legal protections of LGBT people.

                      Yes, because we can always trust what a politician says, even if it’s contrary to his personal beliefs /sarc

                      That’s if norman is wrong, of course.

                      I don’t think he’s entirely wrong, but I don’t think he has Winston’s polish and chutzpah to be able to pull this sort of thing off without looking a bit like a chihuahua.

                      All he has to do is let craig make a dick of himself by dragging it out longer and longer and longer. And what about the credibility plummet is craig loses as badly as david irving? That would really help the nactoids achieve 50%, given that key wants to work with the man.

                      All in all, much more successful than anything labour have tried recently.

                    • Tracey

                      Yup

                      Norman just needs to popint to some stuff that enables Norman to claim he genuinely holds that opinion of Craig. It has tohave some factual basis, so he can trawl back through public documents of Craig’s quotes etc…

                      VERY interesting that Craig is balking at his emails and letters around the same sex marriage issue are not something he wants revealled prior to the election. he obviously feels on much safer ground that women dont belong in the kitchen.

                      I suspect his affidavit will include things like

                      “some of my companies best cleaners have been men”

                    • Populuxe1

                      And what about conscience votes in parliament? Will he put forward a private members bill to repeal same-sex marriage? Make abortion harder to get? Weaken the Human Rights Act? These are valid concerns that are foreshadowed by the character and beliefs of the representative. He might very well have no plans to do any of this, but might just decide during the term to put the “fun” in fundamentalist.

                      That’s rather the point of a conscience vote, isn’t it? He might very well put forward a private members bill to repeal same-sex marriage, but this isn’t Uganda. He could put frward a private members bill to make every day Christmass. I’m pretty sure New Zealand democracy is robust enough to take it.

                      Really? What proportion of staff in senior management or directorships are women? Unless it’s ~50/50, or even just roughly the same as the rest of new zealand, his actions speak louder than your words.

                      But that would be holding Craig to standards higher even than women CEOs which seems a little out there. Why don’t female CEOs have 50% female management? He probably loves that family values shtick and I wouldn’t vote for him, but I’d prefer to see a difinitive statement from him first.

                      All he has to do is let craig make a dick of himself by dragging it out longer and longer and longer. And what about the credibility plummet is craig loses as badly as david irving? That would really help the nactoids achieve 50%, given that key wants to work with the man.

                      “Give me back my flag”

                    • McFlock

                      He might very well put forward a private members bill to repeal same-sex marriage, but this isn’t Uganda.

                      Ah, so we needen’t care about what elected reresentatives believe in, because other elected representatives would vote against it. But then how do you know that would be the case, if you don’t know what they believe in? And didn’t you just argue that craig had been misrepresented?

                      But that would be holding Craig to standards higher even than women CEOs

                      No, I was describing how craig could show that norman’s statement was incorrect without using a chequebook and a court. You know, basic skills for politicians. You obviously missed the “even just roughly the same as the rest of new zealand” bit.

  26. Whatever next 26

    ” a high standard of public debate is essential for a democracy” perhaps John Key should sue Craig for saying making such an outrageous suggestion

  27. Murray Olsen 27

    I donated for the case. I’m neither gay nor Green, and you always find me in the kitchen at parties, but Colon Craig can’t be allowed to intimidate people with his overweight chequebook. The last politician I remember who tried that was Jeffrey Archer, and he ended up in prison. That’d be a great result, seeing how Colon likes violence against children.

  28. North 28

    Hey Popsicle I stand to be corrected…….but I thought I saw you quite recently having a go at Craig for his anti-gay shit.

    And I also recall something from you a while ago which approached an acknowledgment that you “help out when they’re busy’……” so to speak, the minority team that is.

    Now I see you nitpicking at straight dude Norman for taking it to The Homophobe. You’re not one of those horribly conflicted Tory gay fellows are you ?

    Known quite a few in my time. They’re a riot. Frequently however, prissy, disdainful, pearl-clutching, vexatious, authoritarian, insecure snobs. Like vaunted “Toryness” atones somehow.

    In case you’re moved to yell “homophobe” you’re welcome to ask me about my team. I’m likely to respond, not that cryptically – “all of the time, busy or not……..”.

    Again, I stand to be corrected Pops’……..but not in the way the religious right might propose.

    • Populuxe1 28.1

      Oh, I’m gay, very gay, but women and LGBT people can say that for themselves and do. I am mainly concerned that Norman will undermine himself by getting caught up in this sort of largely irrelevant nonsense (shades of “give me back my flag”) and give too much weight to Craig’s idiocy.

    • Murray Olsen 28.2

      Funnily enough, North, I get the same impression, but Pop swears he’s a leftwinger. I suppose he could like the RWNJ slogans like “give me back my flag” for their poetic qualties, so I could be wrong.

  29. North 29

    I reckon you’re disingenuous there Pops’. Your studied concern that Norman may be undermined I mean. Risible actually.

    But if your concern is real be not concerned Pops’. If anything I suspect there are electorally significant LGBT numbers who will view Norman much more favourably than previously they might have. Precisely as a result of Craig’s carry on and Norman’s response. Undermined ? Norman’s hardly reaching out to the “dirty dirty” brigade or the flat-earther “God can cure you” merchants.

    As an aside, it was another Norman, the crazy old bigot Norman Jones, National MP for Invercargill RIP (death not jeans) whom in the days of law reform trenchantly cultivated and whipped up them mob. Could only get as far as the foyer at the bigot’s jampacked meeting at North Shore Teachers College one night. Meeting over two “Don’t fuck with us……” gay women strode defiantly from the hall arm in arm. Jesus, the profanities and filth issuing from the mouths of scores of teenybopper god-botherers in that foyer. In one it was appalling for the hatred and hilarious for the cacophany – both faith-based apparently. And nary a leftie or a greenie amongst them I’d wager.

    Anyway, I can see how you’re conflicted Pops’. Broadly (exceptions do prove) empathy and tolerance is much less the mark of ‘the’ tory than it is of gay people I think. As reflected in the essential selfishness of ‘the’ tory economic mindset – all power to me in MY life – all power to me in YOUR life.

    Go for it Russel Norman – even if ‘the’ tory feels undermined…….conflicted.

  30. captain hook 30

    my opinion is that colin craig, the great theologaster, should come out of the closet and stop denying the real him.

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    How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log on iPhone Without a Computer: A StepbyStep 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 thirdparty applications. So, lets dive in and recover those lost calls! 1. Check Recently Deleted Folder: Apple understands that accidental deletions happen. Thats 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. Heres 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. Heres how to restore from an iCloud backup: Go to Settings > General > Reset. Choose Erase All Content and Settings. Follow the onscreen 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 ThirdParty Apps (with Caution): ...
    5 hours 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 ...
    12 hours 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 ...
    12 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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 ...
    13 hours 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
    14 hours 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 ...
    15 hours 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 ...
    15 hours 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, ...
    15 hours 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, ...
    16 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    20 hours 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
    21 hours 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 ...
    21 hours 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
    22 hours 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
    22 hours 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
    23 hours 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 ...
    24 hours 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
    1 day 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 ...
    1 day 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 days ago
  • Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Bryce Edwards writes  – Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Matt Doocey doubles down on trans “healthcare”
    Citizen Science writes –  Last week saw two significant developments in the debate over the treatment of trans-identifying children and young people – the release in Britain of the final report of Dr Hilary Cass’s review into gender healthcare, and here in New Zealand, the news that the ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • A TikTok Prime Minister.
    One night while sleeping in my bed I had a beautiful dreamThat all the people of the world got together on the same wavelengthAnd began helping one anotherNow in this dream, universal love was the theme of the dayPeace and understanding and it happened this wayAfter such an eventful day ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago
  • Texas Lessons
    This is a guest post by Oscar Simms who is a housing activist, volunteer for the Coalition for More Homes, and was the Labour Party candidate for Auckland Central at the last election. ...
    Greater AucklandBy Guest Post
    2 days ago
  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links at 6:06 am
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours as of 6:06 am on Wednesday, April 17 are:Must read: Secrecy shrouds which projects might be fast-tracked RNZ Farah HancockScoop: Revealed: Luxon has seven staffers working on social media content - partly paid for by taxpayer Newshub ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Fighting poverty on the holiday highway
    Turning what Labour called the “holiday highway” into a four-lane expressway from Auckland to Whangarei could bring at least an economic benefit of nearly two billion a year for Northland each year. And it could help bring an end to poverty in one of New Zealand’s most deprived regions. The ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago
  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks at 6:26 pm
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: launching his substack with a bunch of his previous documentaries, including this 1992 interview with Dame Whina Cooper. and here crew give climate activists plenty to do, including this call to submit against the Fast Track Approvals bill. writes brilliantly here on his substack ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • At a glance – Is the science settled?
    On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
    3 days ago
  • Apposite Quotations.
    How Long Is Long Enough? Gaza under Israeli bombardment, July 2014. This posting is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...
    3 days ago
  • What’s a life worth now?
    You're in the mall when you hear it: some kind of popping sound in the distance, kids with fireworks, maybe. But then a moment of eerie stillness is followed by more of the fireworks sound and there’s also screaming and shrieking and now here come people running for their lives.Does ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Howling at the Moon
    Karl du Fresne writes –  There’s a crisis in the news media and the media are blaming it on everyone except themselves. Culpability is being deflected elsewhere – mainly to the hapless Minister of Communications, Melissa Lee, and the big social media platforms that are accused of hoovering ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Newshub is Dead.
    I don’t normally send out two newsletters in a day but I figured I’d say something about… the news. If two newsletters is a bit much then maybe just skip one, I don’t want to overload people. Alternatively if you’d be interested in sometimes receiving multiple, smaller updates from me, ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • Seymour is chuffed about cutting early-learning red tape – but we hear, too, that Jones has loose...
    Buzz from the Beehive David Seymour and Winston Peters today signalled that at least two ministers of the Crown might be in Wellington today. Seymour (as Associate Minister of Education) announced the removal of more red tape, this time to make it easier for new early learning services to be ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. Our political system is suffering from the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • Was Hawkesby entirely wrong?
    David Farrar  writes –  The Broadcasting Standards Authority ruled: Comments by radio host Kate Hawkesby suggesting Māori and Pacific patients were being prioritised for surgery due to their ethnicity were misleading and discriminatory, the Broadcasting Standards Authority has found. It is a fact such patients are prioritised. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • PRC shadow looms as the Solomons head for election
    PRC and its proxies in Solomons have been preparing for these elections for a long time. A lot of money, effort and intelligence have gone into ensuring an outcome that won’t compromise Beijing’s plans. Cleo Paskall writes – On April 17th the Solomon Islands, a country of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Climate Change: Criminal ecocide
    We are in the middle of a climate crisis. Last year was (again) the hottest year on record. NOAA has just announced another global coral bleaching event. Floods are threatening UK food security. So naturally, Shane Jones wants to make it easier to mine coal: Resources Minister Shane Jones ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago
  • Is saving one minute of a politician's time worth nearly $1 billion?
    Is speeding up the trip to and from Wellington airport by 12 minutes worth spending up more than $10 billion? Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me in the last day to 8:26 am today are:The Lead: Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Long Tunnel or Long Con?
    Yesterday it was revealed that Transport Minister had asked Waka Kotahi to look at the options for a long tunnel through Wellington. 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 ...
    3 days ago
  • Smoke And Mirrors.
    You're a fraud, and you know itBut it's too good to throw it all awayAnyone would do the sameYou've got 'em goingAnd you're careful not to show itSometimes you even fool yourself a bitIt's like magicBut it's always been a smoke and mirrors gameAnyone would do the sameForty six billion ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • What is Mexico doing about climate change?
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections The June general election in Mexico could mark a turning point in ensuring that the country’s climate policies better reflect the desire of its citizens to address the climate crisis, with both leading presidential candidates expressing support for renewable energy. Mexico is the ...
    3 days ago
  • State of humanity, 2024
    2024, 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?When I say 2024 I really mean the state of humanity in 2024.Saturday night, we watched Civil War because that is one terrifying cliff we've ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • Govt’s Wellington tunnel vision aims to ease the way to the airport (but zealous promoters of cycl...
    Buzz from the Beehive A pet project and governmental tunnel vision jump out from the latest batch of ministerial announcements. The government is keen to assure us of its concern for the wellbeing of our pets. It will be introducing pet bonds in a change to the Residential Tenancies Act ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago
  • The case for cultural connectedness
    A recent report generated from a Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) survey of 1,224 rangatahi Māori aged 11-12 found: Cultural connectedness was associated with fewer depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and better quality of life. That sounds cut and dry. But further into the report the following appears: Cultural connectedness is ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Useful context on public sector job cuts
    David Farrar writes –    The Herald reports: From the gory details of job-cuts news, you’d think the public service was being eviscerated.   While the media’s view of the cuts is incomplete, it’s also true that departments have been leaking the particulars faster than a Wellington ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell On When Racism Comes Disguised As Anti-racism
    Remember the good old days, back when New Zealand had a PM who could think and speak calmly and intelligently in whole sentences without blustering? Even while Iran’s drones and missiles were still being launched, Helen Clark was live on TVNZ expertly summing up the latest crisis in the Middle ...
    4 days ago
  • Govt ignored economic analysis of smokefree reversal
    Costello did not pass on analysis of the benefits of the smokefree reforms to Cabinet, emphasising instead the extra tax revenues of repealing them. Photo: Hagen Hopkins, Getty Images TL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me at 7:26 am today are:The Lead: Casey Costello never passed on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • True Blue.
    True loveYou're the one I'm dreaming ofYour heart fits me like a gloveAnd I'm gonna be true blueBaby, I love youI’ve written about the job cuts in our news media last week. The impact on individuals, and the loss to Aotearoa of voices covering our news from different angles.That by ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago
  • Who is running New Zealand’s foreign policy?
    While commentators, including former Prime Minister Helen Clark, are noting a subtle shift in New Zealand’s foreign policy, which now places more emphasis on the United States, many have missed a key element of the shift. What National said before the election is not what the government is doing now. ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    4 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #15
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 7, 2024 thru Sat, April 13, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week is about adults in the room setting terms and conditions of ...
    5 days ago
  • Feline Friends and Fragile Fauna The Complexities of Cats in New Zealand’s Conservation Efforts

    Cats, with their independent spirit and beguiling purrs, have captured the hearts of humans for millennia. In New Zealand, felines are no exception, boasting the highest national cat ownership rate globally [definition cat nz cat foundation]. An estimated 1.134 million pet cats grace Kiwi households, compared to 683,000 dogs ...

    5 days ago
  • Or is that just they want us to think?
    Nice guy, that Peter Williams. Amiable, a calm air of no-nonsense capability, a winning smile. Everything you look for in a TV presenter and newsreader.I used to see him sometimes when I went to TVNZ to be a talking head or a panellist and we would yarn. Nice guy, that ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago
  • Fact Brief – Did global warming stop in 1998?
    Skeptical Science is partnering with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. This fact brief was written by Sue Bin Park in collaboration with members from our Skeptical Science team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Did global warming stop in ...
    6 days ago
  • Arguing over a moot point.
    I have been following recent debates in the corporate and social media about whether it is a good idea for NZ to join what is known as “AUKUS Pillar Two.” AUKUS is the Australian-UK-US nuclear submarine building agreement in which … Continue reading ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    6 days ago
  • No Longer Trusted: Ageing Boomers, Laurie & Les, Talk Politics.
    Turning Point: What has turned me away from the mainstream news media is the very strong message that its been sending out for the last few years.” “And what message might that be?” “That the people who own it, the people who run it, and the people who provide its content, really don’t ...
    6 days ago
  • Mortgage rates at 10% anyone?
    No – nothing about that in PM Luxon’s nine-point plan to improve the lives of New Zealanders. But beyond our shores Jamie Dimon, the long-serving head of global bank J.P. Morgan Chase, reckons that the chances of a goldilocks soft landing for the economy are “a lot lower” than the ...
    Point of OrderBy xtrdnry
    6 days ago
  • Sad tales from the left
    Michael Bassett writes –  Have you noticed the odd way in which the media are handling the government’s crackdown on surplus employees in the Public Service? Very few reporters mention the crazy way in which State Service numbers rocketed ahead by more than 16,000 during Labour’s six years, ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • In Whose Best Interests?
    On The Spot: The question Q+A host, Jack Tame, put to the Workplace & Safety Minister, Act’s Brooke van Velden, was disarmingly simple: “Are income tax cuts right now in the best interests of lowering inflation?”JACK TAME has tested another MP on his Sunday morning current affairs show, Q+A. Minister for Workplace ...
    6 days ago
  • Don’t Question, Don’t Complain.
    It has to start somewhereIt has to start sometimeWhat better place than here?What better time than now?So it turns out that I owe you all an apology.It seems that all of the terrible things this government is doing, impacting the lives of many, aren’t necessarily ‘bad’ per se. Those things ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    6 days ago
  • Auckland faces 25% water inflation shock
    Three Waters became a focus of anti-Government protests under Labour, but its dumping by the new Government hasn’t solved councils’ funding problems and will eventually hit the back pockets of everyone. Photo: Lynn Grieveson/Getty ImagesTL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me at 8:06 am today are:The Government ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    6 days ago
  • Small accomplishments and large ironies
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.Share Read more ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    6 days ago
  • The Song of Saqua: Volume VII
    In order to catch up to the actual progress of the D&D campaign, I present you with another couple of sessions. These were actually held back to back, on a Monday and Tuesday evening. Session XV Alas, Goatslayer had another lycanthropic transformation… though this time, he ran off into the ...
    6 days ago
  • Accelerating the Growth Rate?
    There is a constant theme from the economic commentariat that New Zealand needs to lift its economic growth rate, coupled with policies which they are certain will attain that objective. Their prescriptions are usually characterised by two features. First, they tend to be in their advocate’s self-interest. Second, they are ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    7 days 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
    10 hours 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
    15 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    18 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    22 hours 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
    23 hours 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
    1 day 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
  • NZ and US to undertake further practical Pacific cooperation
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced further New Zealand cooperation with the United States in the Pacific Islands region through $16.4 million in funding for initiatives in digital connectivity and oceans and fisheries research.   “New Zealand can achieve more in the Pacific if we work together more urgently and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Government redress for Te Korowai o Wainuiārua
    The Government is continuing the bipartisan effort to restore its relationship with iwi as the Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Claims Settlement Bill passed its first reading in Parliament today, says Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith. “Historical grievances of Te Korowai o Wainuiārua relate to 19th century warfare, land purchased or taken ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Focus on outstanding minerals permit applications
    New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals is working to resolve almost 150 outstanding minerals permit applications by the end of the financial year, enabling valuable mining activity and signalling to the sector that New Zealand is open for business, Resources Minister Shane Jones says.  “While there are no set timeframes for ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Applications open for NZ-Ireland Research Call
    The New Zealand and Irish governments have today announced that applications for the 2024 New Zealand-Ireland Joint Research Call on Agriculture and Climate Change are now open. This is the third research call in the three-year Joint Research Initiative pilot launched in 2022 by the Ministry for Primary Industries and Ireland’s ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Tenancy rules changes to improve rental market
    The coalition Government has today announced changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to encourage landlords back to the rental property market, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “The previous Government waged a war on landlords. Many landlords told us this caused them to exit the rental market altogether. It caused worse ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Boosting NZ’s trade and agricultural relationship with China
    Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay will visit China next week, to strengthen relationships, support Kiwi exporters and promote New Zealand businesses on the world stage. “China is one of New Zealand’s most significant trade and economic relationships and remains an important destination for New Zealand’s products, accounting for nearly 22 per cent of our good and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Freshwater farm plan systems to be improved
    The coalition Government intends to improve freshwater farm plans so that they are more cost-effective and practical for farmers, Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay have announced. “A fit-for-purpose freshwater farm plan system will enable farmers and growers to find the right solutions for their farm ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • New Fast Track Projects advisory group named
    The coalition Government has today announced the expert advisory group who will provide independent recommendations to Ministers on projects to be included in the Fast Track Approvals Bill, say RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones. “Our Fast Track Approval process will make it easier and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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