Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag?

Written By: - Date published: 10:07 am, July 10th, 2020 - 128 comments
Categories: making shit up, Media, national, same old national, spin, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags: ,

Yesterday I posed a number of random impertinent questions about Michelle Boag and the handling of sensitive confidential information.  One of them was:

Who else has she forwarded these reports to?

Well this morning that question has been answered, at least in part.  Michael Woodhouse, he who poses with toilet seats, has admitted that he was one of the recipients of the information.

From Radio New Zealand:

National MP and health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse has confirmed he was also the recipient of patient details from former National Party president Michelle Boag.

In a statement, he said he received four unsolicited emails from Boag between 21 and 25 June.

“While not the same information that is the subject of the inquiry led by Michael Heron QC, [they were] similar in so far as it contained patient details,” Woodhouse said.

“Michelle told me she received this information through her role with the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust and I was led to believe it was circulating among a number of other health agencies.

“I recognised that the information in those emails was private so I did not share it with anyone else and I subsequently deleted them.”

Woodhouse said he has contacted Heron about the emails and will cooperate with the inquiry.

So four “unsolicited” emails between June 21 and June 25.

Remember on July 4 when he said:

Yet another mistake just goes to prove that this Government is not fit to manage the Covid-19 recovery, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says. “Reports coming in this morning of personal details being leaked which reveals the identity of New Zealand’s current active cases, is yet another serious failing from this incompetent Government.

“This is unconscionable and unacceptable that those suffering from the incredibly dangerous virus now have to suffer further with their private details being leaked.

“The Government needs to get to the bottom of this, and quickly. The Ministry of Health have been assuring people since the beginning of the epidemic in New Zealand that personal details would remain private, it’s unfathomable that they couldn’t handle a simple task like this.

Let us pick this apart.  Woodhouse knew Boag was getting confidential information and was leaking them like a sieve.  He was right that it was “unconscionable and unacceptable” that this was happening.  But he was suggesting that it was the Government’s incompetence not a senior National Party member’s malevolence.

He has offered to cooperate with the Heron inquiry.  It might be quicker for Heron if National MPs who did not receive private information from Boag identified themselves.

The question has to be asked, who else was given this information?  How likely is it that Boag only sent it to two MPs?

The inquiry is going to be really interesting.  Popcorn sellers in the country should get ready for a rush on their product.

Update:  Michelle Boag has announced she has resigned from the National Party.

And Todd Muller said yesterday that that he had not asked his MPs whether they had received confidential information as Walker had and that “[t]he issue is sorted from my perspective”.  But a party spokeswoman told the Herald that Muller knew about Boag’s emails to Woodhouse on Tuesday.

This is a nightmare for National. It is going to suck out every bit of momentum from their campaign that they may have been generating.

128 comments on “Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag? ”

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  1. Ed 1
    10 July 2020 at 10:15 am

    Michael Woodhouse being interviewed by Kathryn Ryan at 10.30 a.m. on RNZ

    His choice of language will be very interesting.

    Will he use the word subsequently?

  2. Morrissey 2
    10 July 2020 at 10:19 am

    So that "impeccable source" that Woodhouse cited was…. Michelle Boag.

    https://i1.wp.com/strangeago.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/garrote02.jpg?w=393&ssl=1

  3. Robert Guyton 3
    10 July 2020 at 10:20 am

    Grubby, isn't it.

    • Ed 3.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:25 am

      Grubby doesn't begin to describe these actions.

      This is how the National Party respond to a global pandemic.

      What is the definition of sedition?

      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedition

      • aj 3.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 10:28 am

        Woodhouse is an odiuos man, so this in particular doesn't surprise me. Prior to this, Boag, Walker, 'flabbergasted'

        Love that word.

        • gsays 3.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 1:25 pm

          Several times now, Woodhouse has demonstrated he is unfit to hold office.

          Along with paying various lawyers fees, I begrudge my taxes going towards this mans salary.

          I almost feel for Muller, his profound lack of leadership is debilitating.

          A local lad William Wood has been nominated for the Palmerston North electorate. At this rate he will probably find himself in the top few if these MPs keep dropping like flies.

    • Chris 3.2
      10 July 2020 at 1:36 pm

      Will be interesting to see how Nikki Kaye feels about all of this, if indeed she's one of the only wholesome ones left, and whether she's comfortable contining to associate with such low-life.

      • Rae 3.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 3:43 pm

        Not so sure any longer, up till all this came to light, Boag was her campaign manager, which kind of throws her into a bit of a different light

  4. Patricia Bremner 4
    10 July 2020 at 10:26 am

    For the first time, people are seeing the rotten attitudes and flouting of rules and lack of decency by some? many? National members and supporters.

    This has disgusted many in the South, and they are die hard blue, so throughout the land people are thinking that this is awful.

    How long before Tova and friends say "they all do it." I am getting in early to say… No Tova and c/o, they don't!!

    Perhaps they were calling the PM “St Jacinda “because they were ‘sinners” ???? More to come.

    Now Mr. Brownlee, have you had emails from M.Boag????

    Looks like National have thrown Walker and Boag under the bus metaphorically, so, when is the next bus????

    • Gabby 4.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:50 am

      I suspect that some of them do genuinely despise nice people.

    • pete 4.2
      10 July 2020 at 11:00 am

      People so disgusted in the south that Adams and Brownlee, whatever swede they put up in Clutha and others will fly in with very healthy majorities.

      • Michael 4.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 2:34 pm

        Not so sure. The Nats will hold Clutha and Invercargill. They reckon they might win what used to be Dunedin South from Labour's carpet-bagging candidate from Waiheke Island.

    • Grant Insley 4.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:01 am

      Anyone care to take odds on the 'Intelligence' Unit being in charge of sanitising all National computer hard drives?

    • Draco T Bastard 4.4
      10 July 2020 at 1:07 pm

      For the first time, people are seeing the rotten attitudes and flouting of rules and lack of decency by some? many? National members and supporters.

      Considering the total lack of outrage coming from others in National people should be realising that this sort of immoral behaviour is normal for them.

      Looks like National have thrown Walker and Boag under the bus metaphorically, so, when is the next bus????

      That'd be about right. The only problem that the rest of National see is that they got caught – not that they were being completely immoral.

    • Sacha 4.5
      10 July 2020 at 1:25 pm

      For the first time?

      Hardly

  5. ianmac 5
    10 July 2020 at 10:27 am

    "While not the same information that is the subject of the inquiry led by Michael Heron QC, [they were] similar in so far as it contained patient details,” Woodhouse said.

    Hello. How did he know the information was not the same as the leaked info – unless he has seen the leaked info to be able to compare? Deleted?

    • Sacha 5.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:27 pm

      And how could Woodlouse know none of the four emails from Boag contained the same information as Walker received if he only read the first one?

  6. Anne 6
    10 July 2020 at 10:34 am

    Woodhouse knew Boag was getting confidential information and was leaking them like a sieve. He was right that it was “unconscionable and unacceptable” that this was happening. But he was suggesting that it was the Government’s incompetence not a senior National Party member’s malevolence.

    This is a fundamental National Party mantra: if you can't beat them by fair means then use foul. It is in their DNA.

    As my English born father taught me four plus decades ago… never trust a Tory, they are nasty my nature.

    Anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of the Michelle Boags of this world will know the extent of the deceit, treachery and vitriol these types will descend to, in order to get their way.

    Karma really must exist after all.

  7. Ed 7
    10 July 2020 at 10:38 am

    Woodhouse

    Deleted the emails on Monday or Tuesday.
    The day after the inquiry was announced.

    • I Feel Love 7.1
      10 July 2020 at 2:42 pm

      Yes I loved that, his "I am above reproach, I deleted the emails" & when? "as soon as I heard there was an inquiry". Also this "Boag said she would send me an email, and asked for it to be a non parliamentary address", dodgy AF.

  8. sam green 8
    10 July 2020 at 10:39 am

    Come on Nicki Kaye – 'fess up – or tell us you didn't know. Woodhouse needs to go by the way.

  9. aj 9
    10 July 2020 at 10:41 am

    Lying, and squirming like a fish

  10. pete 10
    10 July 2020 at 10:42 am

    Put your hand up if you believe Woodhouse. Just a minute, I'll do a count….

  11. Bearded Git 11
    10 July 2020 at 10:44 am

    In your excitement you are getting her name wrong….as pointed out by others on TS it is Covid 1-18 Boag.

    • Chris 11.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:40 pm

      Right-wingers are either incredibly thick, nasty or both. I'd for a long time thought it'd be impossible to sum a class of person up so simply, but this one works.

  12. Ed 12
    10 July 2020 at 10:45 am

    Woodhouse told Muller on Tuesday evening.

    If the intention of that interview was to shut down the conversation and staunch the questions, it failed….

    • Robert Guyton 12.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:52 am

      Tuesday evening? Was Muller's interview on Wednesday the one where he said he knew of no other National Party MPs in receipt of the information?

      • ianmac 12.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 10:56 am

        Robert. Muller will argue that he meant the information rather than similar ​​​​​​​information. Wriggle room?

        • Leighton 12.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 11:10 am

          Wriggle room indeed. If I know the average New Zealand swing voter (and I think I do), the one thing they love to hear from the candidate for new prime minister is weaselly semantics designed to obscure the truth from them.

          Also based on Muller's media performances to date, he would stammer and flounder like a dying fish if properly questioned on such a weak position.

        • Robert Guyton 12.1.1.2
          10 July 2020 at 11:38 am

          And his tribe will swallow that without gagging, while non-tribal members will be spewing! Same as it ever was.

        • nzlemming 12.1.1.3
          10 July 2020 at 8:36 pm

          Though he's also said that he didn't ask his MPs whether they had received the info.

          • George 12.1.1.3.1
            10 July 2020 at 10:53 pm

            The other question is – did National ask Boag for the information in the emails? Which could make it a very very messy situation…

  13. Nick 13
    10 July 2020 at 10:49 am

    Listened to Michael Woodhouse on RNZ pretend he's Sgt Shultz….."I know nothink"

    • Morrissey 13.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:53 am

      One really disgusting thing to remember about Woodhouse, that cynical and shameless leaker of confidential information, is that he was a tireless and brutal traducer of Julian Assange, who exposed the crimes of people like Woodhouse.

      • Sacha 13.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 11:05 am

        A more relevant thing is that he has been a hospital CEO, so knows the NZ health information privacy rules well. Just happy to ignore em.

        • Morrissey 13.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 11:08 am

          Fair comment. Wonder if he'll be hounded and ridiculed by the folks on the Panel for it.

        • Gabby 13.1.1.2
          10 July 2020 at 11:23 am

          Makes you wonder how he conducted himself in that position.

        • left_forward 13.1.1.3
          10 July 2020 at 11:32 am

          Yes, you are right, this is pertinent. From his experience, he would know that the names that he received from Boag in June should not be shared by anyone, and yet he didn't warn his source or his colleagues against using them?

      • gsays 13.1.2
        10 July 2020 at 1:30 pm

        Thanks, Mozza.

        Traducer is a new word for my vocabulary. Kind of onomatapeic too.

        • Morrissey 13.1.2.1
          10 July 2020 at 1:55 pm

          The term was used, memorably, by the great George Galloway, as he faced down a couple of hapless American politicians in 2005….

  14. observer 14
    10 July 2020 at 10:49 am

    One of many "matters arising" from that Woodhouse interview with Ryan: apparently e-mails in Dunedin can only be accessed in Dunedin.

    • aj 14.1
      10 July 2020 at 11:00 am

      apparently e-mails in Dunedin can only be accessed in Dunedin.

      Well thats more BS. I could say that too, but I know I can get all my emails, from any account, on my phone anywhere in the world

    • Robert Guyton 14.2
      10 July 2020 at 11:40 am

      That was breathtaking bullsh*ttery!

    • left_forward 14.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:43 am

      Haha – I thought that was a curious thing to say too.

  15. ianmac 15
    10 July 2020 at 10:51 am

    Kathryn did a good job to to get a few straight answers from Woodhouse. He seems to have organised his story to have verifiable answers. Cute. He has had nearly a week to line up his ducks but perception will damage his future credibility. With some flow on doubt about Muller's credibility/timeline as well.

  16. Leighton 16
    10 July 2020 at 10:54 am

    Hold on…….the National campaign had been generating momentum before this? Where? With who? The people deserve to know!

  17. Ed 17
    10 July 2020 at 10:58 am

    Sharon Murdoch sums up the situation with this great cartoon.

    Todd is just beginning to realise what cousin Michael has left stuck on the seat….

    https://twitter.com/domesticanimal/status/1281309398200012800/photo/1

    • Just Is 17.1
      10 July 2020 at 12:50 pm

      Yep, pretty much graphically describes Mullers current conundrum.

      Mullers been using the old distraction technique

      Look over there.

      Can anyone see National recovering before the election?

      Given the reality that " a day is a long time in politics"

  19. observer 19
    10 July 2020 at 11:10 am

    Amelia Wade has done a good job sorting out the Muller timeline here – and the details are crucial:

    Muller was asked about "anyone else?", when he knew about Woodhouse. Muller lied.

    Only a (barely credible) memory lapse can get Todd off the hook.

    Relevant quotes:

    National health spokesman Michael Woodhouse told leader Todd Muller on Tuesday evening that he was also sent Covid patient data by Michelle Boag. …
    But the next day, Muller was specifically asked by reporters “have you checked with Woodhouse, specifically, whether he received that same information from Boag”.
    “No,” replied Muller … At no point in yesterday’s media stand-up did Muller mention that he knew Boag had sent Covid patient information to Woodhouse. …

    Asked again if he had spoken to Woodhouse and if Boag was a Woodhouse source, Muller said: “No, I don’t really understand where you’re going with this.”

  20. swordfish 20
    10 July 2020 at 11:54 am

    Muller's in Big Troub.

    I predicted a few months ago (albeit tongue-in-cheek) that Judith would become leader around July … I'm starting to think I was right all along.

    My heart says Smiddy but my head says Judith.
    https://twitter.com/swordfish7774/status/1281377883873669121

  21. RedBaronCV 21
    10 July 2020 at 11:57 am

    Two things still puzzle me.

    Michelle Boag has been at this stuff forever- about 30 years since the Faye Richwhite stuff. Why has she rolled over and admitted everything this time? If it was the USA you'd suspect she had done a plea bargain to rollover on others to save herself but that's not really the scene here.

    Some things that go on in government do need exposure. But who is doing the leaking of some highly confidential data that we all know exists but really has absolutely no actual political value like the names of the covid patients.

    • Ed 21.1
      10 July 2020 at 11:58 am

      I think National has a prized asset in the Department of Health they do not want to lose.

      • RedBaronCV 21.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 12:12 pm

        Maybe yes. I imagine that the place is being done over as we speak.The DG is on holiday this week isn't he?

    • lprent 21.2
      10 July 2020 at 12:56 pm

      Looks like a pretty heavy enquiry this time, and this isn’t a civil matter. So far this is looking like an unauthorised leak. Not even a mistake. If the enquiry comes up with a report of no other organisations being sent this confidential information by some systematically stupid mistake (and even then) there are likely to be charges preferred against the leaker.

      Basically leaks of confidential information from the civil servants are always treated seriously. No difference between this and the dozen(s) of other enquiries into civil service breaches of confidential or secret information.

    • maggieinnz 21.3
      10 July 2020 at 6:47 pm

      I don't know how relevant it is but she knew she was leaving her charity role well before she quit and I can't imagine she didn't have something in the pipeline. I think she poached the info knowing she was out the door anyway.

      It will be interesting to see where she lands after all this.

  22. Ed 22
    10 July 2020 at 11:57 am

    Someone in the media should be asking Nikki Kaye some straight questions.

  23. observer 23
    10 July 2020 at 11:58 am

    Here's my free media advice for Todd Muller –

    You don't have to make a statement until you've worked out what it is you are saying. Waiting another hour before you face the cameras won't kill you. But getting caught out will.

    This is Muller's response, and it's hopeless:

    https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/muller-could-have-been-clearer-info-woodhouse-received-boag

  24. UncookedSelachimorpha 24
    10 July 2020 at 12:33 pm

    For Michael Woodhouse, as health spokesman, former CEO of a hospital and person with a Masters of Health Administration, to merely delete emails that willfully breach patient privacy is disgracefully inadequate.

    He knew the leak he received was outrageously unethical and went against all standards of medical practice. It was incumbent on him to take decisive action to expose and shut down this appalling behaviour. Reporting the breach to the proper authorities (e.g. MOH, privacy commissioner) would be the minimum decent action he could take.

  25. Anne 25
    10 July 2020 at 12:51 pm

    Great ‘bill board’ laugh

    https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2020/07/10/winners-losers-latest-shocking-boag-revelations-are-the-end-of-the-national-death-star/

    Post got a lot of typos. A rushed job. Hard for commentators to keep up these days.

  26. Peter 26
    10 July 2020 at 12:53 pm

    Unfortunately the volume on the video isn't all that clear. Muller said of himself that he was 'very clear!' A number of times.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    I could not see Matthew Hooton in the clip.

  27. ianmac 27
    10 July 2020 at 1:24 pm

    Dirty Tricks? Remember that the case against the donors and JamieLee start this week. Will there be a suspicion that the National Party will remain unscathed or will the evidence that JL has create a problem for Nat Party?

    • Sacha 27.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:34 pm

      Ah, that might be connected with their most lucrative Chinese MP choosing now to leave..

    • gsays 27.2
      10 July 2020 at 1:42 pm

      I can see some lawyer arguing that this case being heard is unfair for the Nats, anyone judging would be prejudiced by the filthy, dodgy goings-on that have been revealed.

    • George 27.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:06 pm

      A week is a long time in politics… And next week could feel like a year for National on top of this …if this is still dragging on…

  28. Robert Guyton 28
    10 July 2020 at 1:32 pm

    "Muller said on Tuesday evening he was given a "heads up" from Michael Woodhouse that he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker.

    "The next day I had a chat with Michael and we agreed it would be appropriate for him to circle back to Michael Heron and make him aware of that, in case it would be useful for his inquiry.""

    And yet…,Woodhouse deleted those emails making them unavailable to Heron. Very, very odd.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    • Peter 28.1
      10 July 2020 at 2:12 pm

      Odd that he deleted those emails making them unavailable to Heron? No, it's Michael Woodhouse and National, it's business as usual.

    • mauī 28.2
      10 July 2020 at 2:17 pm

      Some people just have such rotten luck.. Imagine circling back to Heron with important information which you had just deleted some hours or a day prior. He must have felt awful about it.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 28.3
      10 July 2020 at 4:27 pm

      I wonder if Covid 1-18 Boag also had the foresight to delete them?

    • UncookedSelachimorpha 28.4
      11 July 2020 at 1:17 pm

      he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker

      No, No, No, No, No. The font was different. Totally different. Doesn't count at all.

  29. ianmac 29
    10 July 2020 at 1:34 pm

    The Muller reply/justification today at 12:30:

    Muller said on Tuesday evening he was given a "heads up" from Michael Woodhouse that he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker.

    "The next day I had a chat with Michael and we agreed it would be appropriate for him to circle back to Michael Heron and make him aware of that, in case it would be useful for his inquiry."

    Muller said Walker and Woodhouse were "very different issues".

    "Walker released private, personal and sensitive information to the public, which has cost him his political career. Michael Woodhouse saw this information, and didn't act on it."

    He'd now made it "very clear" to his caucus, if they were sent any sensitive information they needed to bring it to his attention as leader.

    But he said there was an "absolute distinction" between receiving information, and releasing it publicly.

    There we are then. Hook removed.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    • sam green 29.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:51 pm

      He received the emails in June – given we are a team of 5 million fighting Covid – wouldn't you think that any 'leak' be reported and dealt to? If not – he is failing as a member of that team and failing the national Covid response – essentially failing his country. Well even essentially working against it – so essentially being treasonous. Maybe even criminal. i dunno …

  30. ianmac 30
    10 July 2020 at 2:23 pm

    Should we go easy on the Shadow minister of Health Woodhouse?

    No! Remember the vitriol and sneering and undermining that Woodhouse has directed at the past Minister of Health, David Clark? What goes around….

    • Peter 30.1
      10 July 2020 at 3:53 pm

      Woodhouse: “I have had no knowledge of anything that Michelle Boag has done this week."

      What she's done this week has been right across in the media for a couple of days. did

      "I haven’t spoken to Michelle this week:” A reasonable translation?: "We communicated by email, so I haven't talked to her."

    • Anne 30.2
      10 July 2020 at 5:33 pm

      Remember the vitriol and sneering and undermining that Woodhouse has directed at the past Minister of Health, David Clark?

      They clearly had someone in the street who was spying on Clark and someone stalked him to a couple of outdoor venues when he was trying to get fresh air and exercise. Given the circumstances the man was probably in desperate need of it to clear his head.

      Yet the bastards – ably abetted by a vindictive media – crucified him for doing the same as what the team of 5 million were doing… getting fresh air and exercise.

      It subsequently transpired that Dr. Ashley Bloomfield was going out around 6 am for his daily bout of fresh air and exercise. Nobody complained about that and nor should they. Like Clark he was trying to stay healthy and combat the stress that went with his position.

      • Liliane 30.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 8:06 pm

        Exactly Anne! I live 5 mins away from Dr Clark, and went for walks every day during Level 4, as did most of my suburb (we did a lot of dodging).

        The walking,cycling track that Dr Clark used for exercise between zoom meetings is literally just a few minutes drive from his house (unlike Doctor's Point, which was a foolish mistake on his part I admit).

        I thought the whole mountain biking thing was a media beat up at the time, and I haven't changed my mind on that.

        However, that's all moot now and Dr Clark will have time to reflect on how he could have handled his portfolio better over time. According to the Otago Daily Times he offered to take the Health portfolio because nobody else would step up. He must be wondering why he bothered.

        • Anne 30.2.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 8:49 pm

          Thanks for that Liliane. I don't know David Clark, but I do know his brother. A nicer person you could not meet, and I'm sure David is probably the same.

          I wonder sometimes how those two-faced, up-themselves tabloid media types can sleep at night. They have no feelings of shame or guilt for the way they destroy reputations just because they can. Loathsome specimens of humanity.

  31. observer 31
    10 July 2020 at 2:29 pm

    Previously: "no other MPs involved, except Walker"

    Now: "no other MPs, except Walker and Woodhouse"

    https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/420925/no-other-national-mps-received-leaked-details-todd-muller

    Next?

    • ianmac 31.1
      10 July 2020 at 4:06 pm

      On the News RNZ just now (3pm) when asked if there was anyone else receiving info, Muller said that he has told his caucus firmly that if they had received any info they must tell him.

      So didn't answer the question really.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 31.2
      10 July 2020 at 4:30 pm

      Yes, it beggars belief that Boag, on Nikki Kaye's campaign committee, didn't communicate with her – and pass on private information.

  32. McFlock 32
    10 July 2020 at 4:13 pm

    I mean, one almost has to assume that this clusterfuck can't be an accident.

    But if it's an intentional plot to fuck up the nats, then how could they not be this competent ever before in their careers? Is sabotaging their own party the only time in their lives they truly excel? Or is this all an accident and they've fallen through the floor into a new level of incompetence?

    All the while consistently finding the wrong thing to do with patient data?

    • greywarshark 32.1
      10 July 2020 at 4:50 pm

      Or it's just a subterfuge. They are so cunning, that they have a cunning plan to confuse us with something that Baldrick dreamed up. Watch out for a turnip soon, we must keep alert.

  33. rod 33
    10 July 2020 at 4:23 pm

    Bridges must be loving this..wink

  34. tc 34
    10 July 2020 at 5:01 pm

    Let them all burn on the bonfire of ideological vanity and abhorrent tactics.

    Brand recognition. National at its finest folks.

  35. Fireblade 35
    10 July 2020 at 5:13 pm

    Health Minister Chris Hipkins criticises National for sitting on sensitive COVID-19 patient information.

    "Hipkins said it is not legitimate to release that information or to sit on that information and not inform the Government."

    "It is clear that over the course of the last week the National Party have had a lot of information that they have chosen not to share that could have cleared things up much more quickly, Hipkins said."

    "Over the weekend both Mr Muller and Michael Woodhouse made some very strong comments about the release of this information and how unacceptable it was when it is clear they knew how it came to be released and chose not to share that information."

    https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/07/health-minister-chris-hipkins-criticises-national-for-sitting-on-sensitive-covid-19-patient-information.html

  36. NZJester 36
    10 July 2020 at 7:47 pm

    Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag?

    Maybe the reason Todd Muller is so mad at them all is because he was left out?

  37. ScottGN 37
    10 July 2020 at 8:06 pm

    Naturally the Herald online is trying its best to avoid any of the unpleasantness.

    • Muttonbird 37.1
      10 July 2020 at 8:14 pm

      Listened a significant amount of Heather duplicity-Allen's broadcast yesterday and today and it was a real experience listening to how much she didn't talk about this incredible scandal by the Nats.

      She even defended Woodhouse! And claimed she knows where the homeless man fabrication came from.

      Hey Heather, why don’t you do your adopted country a favour and release this info because it’s ripping our democracy apart.

  38. anker 38
    10 July 2020 at 8:54 pm

    God it Friday night and I have had a full on week.

    Re the Nats,………ha ha ha ha ha ha. Its about time they were exposed.

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  • Getting new job seekers on the pathway to work
    Jobseeker beneficiaries who have work obligations must now meet with MSD within two weeks of their benefit starting to determine their next step towards finding a job, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “A key part of the coalition Government’s plan to have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker ...
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    1 hour ago

  • Accelerating Social Investment
    A new standalone Social Investment Agency will power-up the social investment approach, driving positive change for our most vulnerable New Zealanders, Social Investment Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Despite the Government currently investing more than $70 billion every year into social services, we are not seeing the outcomes we want for ...
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    3 hours ago

  • Getting Back on Track
    Check against delivery Good morning. It is a pleasure to be with you to outline the Coalition Government’s approach to our first Budget. Thank you Mark Skelly, President of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, together with  your Board and team, for hosting me.   I’d like to acknowledge His Worship ...
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    4 hours ago

  • NZ – European Union ties more critical than ever
    Your Excellency Ambassador Meredith,   Members of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassadors from European Union Member States,   Ministerial colleagues, Members of Parliament, and other distinguished guests, Thank you everyone for joining us.   Ladies and gentlemen -    In diplomacy, we often speak of ‘close’ and ‘long-standing’ relations.   ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    17 hours ago

  • Therapeutic Products Act to be repealed
    The Therapeutic Products Act (TPA) will be repealed this year so that a better regime can be put in place to provide New Zealanders safe and timely access to medicines, medical devices and health products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello announced today. “The medicines and products we are talking about ...
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    20 hours ago

  • Decisions on Wellington City Council’s District Plan
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop, today released his decision on twenty recommendations referred to him by the Wellington City Council relating to its Intensification Planning Instrument, after the Council rejected those recommendations of the Independent Hearings Panel and made alternative recommendations. “Wellington notified its District Plan on ...
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    22 hours ago

  • Rape Awareness Week: Government committed to action on sexual violence
    Rape Awareness Week (6-10 May) is an important opportunity to acknowledge the continued effort required by government and communities to ensure that all New Zealanders can live free from violence, say Ministers Karen Chhour and Louise Upston.  “With 1 in 3 women and 1 in 8 men experiencing sexual violence ...
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    23 hours ago

  • Smarter lunch programme feeds more, costs less
    Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the Government will be delivering a more efficient Healthy School Lunches Programme, saving taxpayers approximately $107 million a year compared to how Labour funded it, by embracing innovation and commercial expertise. “We are delivering on our commitment to treat taxpayers’ money ...
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    24 hours ago

  • Report provides insights into marine recovery
    New research on the impacts of extreme weather on coastal marine habitats in Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay will help fishery managers plan for and respond to any future events, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. A report released today on research by Niwa on behalf of Fisheries New Zealand ...
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    1 day ago

  • NZ to send political delegation to the Pacific
    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will lead a broad political delegation on a five-stop Pacific tour next week to strengthen New Zealand’s engagement with the region.   The delegation will visit Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Tuvalu.    “New Zealand has deep and ...
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    1 day ago

  • Low gas production threatens energy security
    There has been a material decline in gas production according to figures released today by the Gas Industry Co.  Figures released by the Gas Industry Company show that there was a 12.5 per cent reduction in gas production during 2023, and a 27.8 per cent reduction in gas production in the ...
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    1 day ago

  • 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, ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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. ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    2 days 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 ...
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    3 days 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 ...
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    3 days 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, ...
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    3 days 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.   ...
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    3 days 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 ...
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    4 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 ...
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    5 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 ...
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    6 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 ...
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    6 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. ...
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    7 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 ...
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    7 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 ...
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    7 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’ ...
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    7 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 ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week 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.  ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week 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. ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week 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 ...
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    1 week ago

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