John Key threatens Human Rights Commission funding

Written By: - Date published: 3:03 pm, July 12th, 2013 - 76 comments
Categories: democracy under attack, Politics - Tags: ,

John Key morphing to muldoon

John Key does not seem to have a very high opinion of law.  He thinks that legal opinions are something that can shopped around for and if he does not like an opinion he just needs to go out and get another one.

The Human Rights Commission has found this out today.  It reported to the Government that the GCSB bill poses an unacceptable risk to rights of privacy.  In a press release Chief David Rutherford is quoted as saying:

“The Commission is concerned that the proposed Bills are wide-reaching without sufficient safeguards against abuse of power. There is inadequate oversight and inadequate provision for ensuring transparency and accountability. The Commission notes media reports that these issues are matters of discussion between some of the leaders of political parties in New Zealand.

“The Commission recognises that some level of surveillance is inevitable and justifiable from a human rights perspective in a democratic society. However, surveillance can be subject to human rights principles, protecting human rights and limiting them only when proportionate and justified and in accordance with the law.

“The right to privacy is fundamental in a democracy and reinforces other fundamental rights, such as rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly. The proposed restrictions on the right to privacy are too general to be proportionate to the Bills’ objectives.

“We note that the Bills were introduced before the recent media exposure of the extent of mass surveillance by some States party to the Five Eyes arrangement. Public trust in Government intelligence agencies is at risk if surveillance activities aren’t being conducted appropriately and seen to be so.

“It is in the interests of our intelligence agencies to have appropriate transparency and accountability mechanisms in place to maintain public trust. We believe much of the public’s concerns could be alleviated if there was satisfactory oversight of surveillance powers and we propose an independent cross-party select committee to oversee intelligence agencies”.

One of the Commission’s statutory powers functions is to report to the Prime Minister on “the implications of any proposed legislation (including subordinate legislation) or proposed policy of the Government that the Commission considers may affect human rights”.  It can do this at any time.  When doing so it is not making a submission on a bill but exercising an important role of providing independent advice directly to the Prime Minister.

John Key has dismissed the Commission’s report and told the organisation to “pull its socks up” for not making a submission on time.  He has made a veiled threat about the HRC’s funding.  The Otago Daily Times contains the following:

“I think the Human Rights Commission actually should take a step back and ask themselves the question why they didn’t put a submission in on time. They are funded by the government and they were the only people that actually couldn’t make the deadline.”

He dismissed the commission’s concerns that there would be a lack of and oversight and accountability, and that the public’s trust in intelligence agencies would be further eroded.

“Actually the bill narrows the GCSB’s scope in its current form, it doesn’t extend it,” he said.

“I actually don’t think it was a very good submission at all and they need to pull their socks up. If they’re going to continue to be a government-funded organisation they should meet the deadline should everyone else.”

If Key’s understanding of the statutory powers that the Human Rights Commission has are indicative of his understanding of the GCSB bill our rights are in big trouble.

UPDATE:  I/S also covers this issue and eerily compares Key’s actions to that of Rob Muldoon.

UPDATE2:  David Rutherford has been interviewed on Checkpoint and stated that Key knew it was a Statutory Report and not a submission on the bill.  The link is here.  HT Bearded Git.

76 comments on “John Key threatens Human Rights Commission funding ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. handle 1
    12 July 2013 at 3:29 pm

    Key’s childish bullying is par for the course. He thinks rules do not apply to him. You have to wonder how he was brought up.

    • karol 1.1
      12 July 2013 at 3:42 pm

      Ah, sounds like laws of the rugby field – whatever you can get away with without the ref (or the TV cameras) noticing.

      • Saarbo 1.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 4:11 pm

        Yes, when he gets cornered he will fight dirty, I come across a few like him in my days in the Corporates, these people will do anything to win, not concerned about anything except for their themselves and their ego.

        The thing about Key is he’s not held accountable by the MSM so he has no fear…they are providing him with more power than he should have. Ugly.

        • North 1.1.1.1
          12 July 2013 at 5:20 pm

          Put aside domestic political banter and fun.

          Unquestionably this raises fundamental concern as to where New Zealand’s democracy and New Zealand’s citizens, already repeatedly molested by a runaway train of an executive, can be heading.

          It’s appalling that a prime minister should maintain and blithely express that the Human Rights Commission, a statutorily established institution part of the fabric of our governance, is an errant wing of his personal feifdom, misbehaving its way to “correction”. An institution which according to barely veiled threat of funding starvation might well, at personal whim, be rendered nugatory.

          “Give me no grief ……..or else !”

          No, of course it won’t happen quite like that. What will happen is those statutorily charged with seeing to the Commission’s statutory functions will be publicly defamed and abused as have many already. Followed by the appoinment of a Fletcher or a Devoy. Net result ? The same.

          Let’s pray like hell that the CEO of SkyCity or the founder of Blue Chip or Sir Botox Bloody Banks or some Merrill Lynch tennis buddy aren’t contemplating a new and handsomely remunerative career path !

          Going for gold !

          Ceaucescu.

          • weka 1.1.1.1.1
            12 July 2013 at 6:21 pm

            “Unquestionably this raises fundamental concern as to where New Zealand’s democracy and New Zealand’s citizens, already repeatedly molested by a runaway train of an executive, can be heading.”

            Completely agree North. We’re now at the point where NACT are saying fuck of NZ, we will do what we want. NZ is being governed, it’s owned.

            How long until the sleepy hobbits rise?

        • georgecom 1.1.1.2
          12 July 2013 at 5:52 pm

          Yes, he gets dirty. He doesn’t like people disagreeing with him and then the “nice man John Key” veil slips and the nasty stuff starts.

          In addition, rather than discuss the contents of the report which he doesn’t like, Key makes up a reason to attack the author of the report. The man gets rucked rather than the ball played.

          How many times can people remember Key getting snipey when opposed?

          I can think of the union opposition to him in 2010 when he gopt all petulent and cost us $20 million over the hobbit dispute.

      • Bob 1.1.2
        12 July 2013 at 10:12 pm

        SPOILT BRAT, He was thrown up!!

  2. Waffler 2
    12 July 2013 at 3:36 pm

    Key doesn’t like our current human rights and is shopping around for some more.

  3. emergency mike 3
    12 July 2013 at 3:46 pm

    Anyone else concerned that our PM is talking about the Human Rights Commision as if they are his opponent instead of an advisory asset?

    Or that he is having a go at them about not putting in a submission instead of addressing their criticisms?

    Or the pure doublespeak of “Actually the bill narrows the GCSB’s scope in its current form, it doesn’t extend it”?

    Or the ‘If they’re going to continue to be a government-funded organisation…’ just casually put on the table.

    “The commission also recommended:…

    * Human rights training for all members of New Zealand’s intelligence services.”

    lawls.

  4. Rogue Trooper 4
    12 July 2013 at 3:47 pm

    “if you’re a dreamer come in
    if you’re a dreamer, a wisher, a liar
    A hoper, a prayer, a magic-bean-buyer
    If you’re a pretender come sit by my fire
    for we have some flax-golden tales to spin
    Come in!
    Come in!
    – Shel Silverstein
    (better Grab Your Socks).

  5. Veutoviper 5
    12 July 2013 at 3:57 pm

    “If Key’s understanding of the statutory powers that the Human Rights Commission has are indicative of his understanding of the GCSB bill our rights are in big trouble.”

    Absolutely agree, MS – but Key does not bother with the processes etc of the law if it does not suit his case.

    Similarly,some of the MSM have ignored, or are ignorant, of the fact that the HRC report is not a submission, but a direct report to the PM as provided for in the HRC legislation.

    The Herald mentions this, as does Andrea Vance’s article on Stuff

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10897315

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/8911648/Spy-agencies-probe-needed-Human-Rights-Commission

    However, neither TV3 news and RNZ news mention this, thereby leaving their reports to give the impression that the HRC missed the submission deadline in line with Key’s remarks.

    http://www.3news.co.nz/GCSB-oversight-inadequate-HRC-says/tabid/1607/articleID/304736/Default.aspx

    http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/214344/key-hits-back-at-human-rights-commission-over-gcsb-bill

    Pedantry aside, as I commented on the “Long Reach” post under the 8 thread, IMO the very unsubtle threat in Key’s statement re government funding is a further indication that the continuation of organisations such as the HRC are possibly under threat from this government, as indicated by recent appointments such as Dame Devoy.

    PS – I/S on NRT is also worth reading on this subject

    http://norightturn.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-human-rights-commission-on-spy-bill.html

    • Veutoviper 5.1
      12 July 2013 at 4:17 pm

      The link to the Stuff article included in my comment at 5 above is still working, as is the link to the RNZ news one.

      The RNZ News one has now been updated to include the fact that the HRC report is a report under their legislation – and not a late submission as Key has said.

      EDIT – this was supposed to have been a reply to 8 below.

      • coolas 5.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 9:09 pm

        Well put.

        Key’s chiding HRC for not ‘submitting’ in time, displays his ignorance of roles and processes, and his ‘funding’ threat is bullying, corporate style: ‘Careful, or we’ll call in the loan.’

        This odious man is slowly poisoning the body politic by devaluing the institutions that safeguard our freedoms. Devoy’s appointment as RRC was designed to diminish the role. She’s a total airhead: ‘Watching Winston’ but thinks Ads stereotyping PI’s is acceptable.

        The GCSB bill is a dangerous erosion of the right to privacy. And why the fuck aren’t the MSM doing their job here.

        Yep, well said, thanks for the links

  6. Tanz 6
    12 July 2013 at 3:57 pm

    The hand of government – John Key. Can’t we take on Switzerland’s type of government, where there is no one person in charge? Key has too much power, and when things do not go his way, he simply changes laws or withdraws funding etc. Imagine working for him – I bet he is not the smiley faced cheery bloke he tries to be in public;

  7. Tanz 7
    12 July 2013 at 3:57 pm

    The hand of government – John Key. Can’t we take on Switzerland’s type of government, where there is no one person in charge? Key has too much power, and when things do not go his way, he simply changes laws or withdraws funding etc. Imagine working for him – I bet he is not the smiley faced cheery bloke he tries to be in public;

  8. Appleboy 8
    12 July 2013 at 4:08 pm

    After hearing this story about 2.00pm on national Radio, I just noticed it has disappeared on the 4pm news. It has also disappeared off stuff from what I can see. What on earth is happening? Someone pulled this story, and instead the 4pm news carried a story on john key and an ASEAN trade announcement.

    p.s Just found the story on Stuff – written by Andrea Vance, and upped at 1.30pm. At 4.00 – gone! There with a search, but nowhere near the front page .

    Seriously – what the*&^^%%$#@

    • RedLogix 8.1
      12 July 2013 at 4:18 pm

      Remember the ‘throat cutting’ moment?

      • RedLogix 8.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 4:23 pm

        Although it’s still up on Granny Herald oddly enough:

        http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10897315

        • muzza 8.1.1.1
          12 July 2013 at 6:58 pm

          In case it disappears from digital – scuze the paste, I hope this get left for the record.

          Human Rights Commission: GCSB bill ‘inadequate’ – National – NZ Herald News

          The Government’s controversial legislation extending the GCSB’s powers to spy on New Zealanders lacks sufficient checks against abuse of power or adequate transparency and accountability, the Human Rights Commission says.

          But Prime Minister John Key has hit back, saying the commission’s report is a poor piece of work that was submitted late, and it needed to do better if it was to continue to receive taxpayer funding.

          The commission this morning released a report to Mr Key on the Government Communications Security Bureau and Related Legislation Amendment Bill, the Telecommunications (Interception Capability and Security) Bill and broader human rights matters regarding surveillance.

          “The Commission is concerned that the proposed bills are wide-reaching without sufficient safeguards against abuse of power. There is inadequate oversight and inadequate provision for ensuring transparency and accountability”, chief commissioner David Rutherford said.

          Mr Rutherford said the commission had employed its rarely used ability to issue a report directly to the Prime Minister, “due to the seriousness of the proposed bills’ measures and the need for proper oversight of the surveillance activities of intelligence agencies”.

          With recent media exposure of the extent of mass surveillance by some of the GCSB’s (Government Communications Security Bureau) partners in the Five Eyes international intelligence sharing arrangement, public trust in intelligence agencies was at risk if surveillance activities weren’t seen to conducted appropriately.

          “We believe much of the public’s concerns could be alleviated if there was satisfactory oversight of surveillance powers and we propose an independent cross-party select committee to oversee intelligence agencies,” the commission said.

          But Mr Key dismissed the commission’s concerns and criticised the quality of their work.

          “I think the Human Rights Commission actually should take a step back and ask themselves the question why they failed to put a submission in on time. They are funded by the Government and they were the only people that couldn’t actually make the deadline.”

          “Actually the bill narrows the GCSB’s scope in its current form, it doesn’t extend it,” he said.

          “I actually don’t think it was a very good submission at all, and they need to pull their socks up. If they’re going to continue to be a government-funded organisation they should meet the deadlines like everyone else did.”

          Commission spokesman Gilbert Wong said Mr Rutherford’s report was not a submission, but the Prime Minister’s comments pointed to another misgiving the commission had about the legislation.

          The commission could have made a submission, “but there was quite a short period for people to prepare their submissions … we did seek an extension but that wasn’t granted.”

          “Our position is that the details of how to do so and when this was to occur were not readily available, and the time for making submissions on such important and technical legislation was unreasonably short.”

          The commission was exercising its statutory ability to directly report to the Prime Minister for only the fourth time since 1993, “because of the seriousness of the proposed bills and to allow for more time to consider the bill’s impact.”

          “It’s not something we use lightly but we feel this is something important.”

          Labour Leader David Shearer welcomed the fact the commission had “underlined what we have always wanted, which is a full and independent inquiry”.

          The need for that was now urgent, given the speed with which the legislation was being advanced, and “because I think it will restore public confidence in our intelligence agencies, which at the moment is pretty low.”

          Mr Shearer also said it was “pretty worrying” that with the commission having come out with a view Mr Key didn’t like, “there’s then a threat about having its funding pulled”.

          The commission also recommended:

          * Stronger accountability and oversight mechanisms, including Parliamentary oversight from a cross-party select committee, in addition to the Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security.

          * Amending the bills in line with the submissions of the New Zealand Law Society and the Legislation Advisory Committee.

          * Taking into account the submissions of internet New Zealand, particularly as they relate to human rights.

          * Human rights training for all members of New Zealand’s intelligence services.

    • Veutoviper 8.2
      12 July 2013 at 4:18 pm

      See my comment at 5.1 above which was supposed to have been a reply to you but somehow ended up as a reply to myself!

  9. Peter 9
    12 July 2013 at 4:30 pm

    Surely even Key’s most ardent supporters have figured out by now that people do not figure in his thinking. At most he thinks of them as voters, a necessary evil.

  10. Mary 10
    12 July 2013 at 4:45 pm

    Decimating the HRC must be on the agenda. Key was on the look out for an excuse to issue the promise via a warning but jumped the gun. The announcement’s on its way. What a prick.

  11. Colonial Viper 11
    12 July 2013 at 5:05 pm

    Key was made to sound like a dickhead on National Radio. Hey National Radio, you better stick to your guns, because if you let the HRC get bullied by Emperor Key, you might not be right next on the list, but you will definitely be on there.

  12. Bearded Git 12
    12 July 2013 at 5:24 pm

    Mary Wilson has just crucified Key’s reaction to the HRC report (not submission!) by talking to David Rutherford of the HRC on Checkpoint. Well worth a listen.

    • emergency mike 13.1
      12 July 2013 at 5:56 pm

      Wilson: “So he [John Key] would have been well aware of your explanation that this is a particular report, it’s not a submission in the sense of the other submissions?”

      Rutherford: “Correct.”

      Translation: John Key is making shit up, again. One more for Blip’s list.

    • North 13.2
      12 July 2013 at 6:20 pm

      Go Mary Wilson ! You telegenic by chance ?

      Campbell……..where are you ?

      Potty Boy Gower………whadya gotta say about this one ? No anger summoned up mine Potty ?

      Seems ShonKey Python either doesn’t know his arse from his elbow (distinction submission/statutory report) or, (defame/abuse) he’s falsely badmouthing the Commission. Advisedly so. In other words, fucking lying !

      Potty Boy……..my shiny new flat screen implores that you not derail its expectation of its owner predeceasing. Give no hint of personal anger over the Commission’s alleged tardiness.

      Hang on…….(gulp)…….”owner”…….that’s me.

  14. Appleboy 14
    12 July 2013 at 5:46 pm

    The Human Rights Commission should issue a press release saying to key “you know we know”…..

    seriously, what about some bright spark here creating a parody press release from the Human Rights Commission with “Mr Key…you know we know….”

  15. Appleboy 15
    12 July 2013 at 5:51 pm

    Isn’t it amazing. Instead of acknowledging a report by the Human Rights Commission, lies outright and criticises them for making a late submission when he knows damn well it’s a report not a submission.

    It’s staggering. The arrogance is riding so high he can’t even see how his comments appear, let alone see the risk of being exposed for lying AND making threats to a politically independent body.

    Can’t wait to hear how Farrar and Whaleoil spin this own goal???????

    • Anne 15.1
      12 July 2013 at 6:02 pm

      Can’t wait to hear how Farrar and Whaleoil spin this own goal????

      Both have ignored it thus far. Farrar is still blathering on about the 2nd Labour coup that never was… courtesy of Duncan Garner. Whaleoil is desperately trying to pin something – anything – on to Labour.

      • RedLogix 15.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 6:04 pm

        Neither of them need to say anything. The MSM will let the news cycle roll and this too will drop down the memory hole.

        • karol 15.1.1.1
          12 July 2013 at 6:11 pm

          Yeah, TV3 News tonight is more concerned with crime and sports.

          • Bearded Git 15.1.1.1.1
            12 July 2013 at 9:08 pm

            The female reporter on TV3 tonight, when referring to the HRC, said something like “meanwhile those submitters that did get their submissions in on time” implying that the HRC was both a submitter and incompetent. Wrong on both counts. Not really good enough.

      • Rogue Trooper 15.1.2
        12 July 2013 at 6:40 pm

        That would be Duncan Garner, schlock Jockeying for position.

    • emergency mike 15.2
      12 July 2013 at 6:07 pm

      Yep if we had an efficient opposition Mr Key would be apologizing to the HRC within 24 hours. My money’s on Key pulling another brain fade over this one if anyone actually bothers to call him out: “Report? Submission? I’m only a kiwi-jokey-blokey-kiwi bloke after all! Anyone could get that mixed up, lot on my plate ‘n all.”

      He could even make a funny funny joke about it and sheepishly pull his own socks up for Paddy’s camera. Good times.

    • yeshe 15.3
      12 July 2013 at 6:11 pm

      Key is each day, more and more, an out of control disparaging megalomaniac; maybe he is on stress meds of some kind. certainly makes me think so. Can you help us out here, Bronagh ??

  16. North 16
    12 July 2013 at 6:27 pm

    David Shearer – “The Prime Minister is not telling the truth !”

    Nah – too simple !

    • Anne 16.1
      12 July 2013 at 7:18 pm

      Too weak. Given the facts of the case David Shearer would have been perfectly safe in calling him a liar, but even in that circumstance he still didn’t have the nous to do it.

      -1 for David Shearer.

      • Anne 16.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 7:45 pm

        Actually I take that -1 back. Just seen the TV1 news clip. Shearer delivered the soundbite well “He is out of line” which is all he was given time to say.

  17. vto 17
    12 July 2013 at 6:30 pm

    Key is makng a habit of being a schoolboy. I think it suits him.

  18. tc 18
    12 July 2013 at 7:10 pm

    Key can and does as he pleases with his media mates never calling him to account along with an opposition imploding. Its why he does because of the shit hes gotten away with so far makes him believe he is politically untouchable.

    • Anne 18.1
      12 July 2013 at 7:23 pm

      Problem is tc it’s not actually working any more. Campbell Live has called him out on it and he knows there’s lots more to come. The pressure is getting to him at last. Hence the school boy paddies. Can’t hack not getting his own way. Diddums to Key!

      • RedLogix 18.1.1
        12 July 2013 at 7:47 pm

        I wonder Anne. How many times has Key pulled this kind of shit already … the grotesque tea-pot saga leaps to mind … and it didn’t dent his popularity one jot? As the Herald cartoonist so aptly captured it yesterday, it’s become a one boat race.

        • Rogue Trooper 18.1.1.1
          12 July 2013 at 7:55 pm

          single sculls

        • Anne 18.1.1.2
          12 July 2013 at 8:44 pm

          I think Redlogix (or should it be hope) that the cumulative effect is starting to set in and Mr & Mrs Punter are beginning to wonder “what’s going on?” I seem to remember the teapot saga did dent Key’s popularity a bit but not enough to cause the Nats to lose the election. I agree it’s going to take time because lets be honest…the punters a very thick when it comes to politics.

          • Rogue Trooper 18.1.1.2.1
            12 July 2013 at 10:34 pm

            however, been thinking, with this online opinion sampling direct to MSM, Campbell Live, etc, people may feel they have discharged their political duty, cos’ the garbage just keeps on coming from National, Dunne and Banks (dogs not withstanding).

  19. Yes 19
    12 July 2013 at 7:57 pm

    There is nothing wrong with the proposed bill.

    • mickysavage 19.1
      12 July 2013 at 10:13 pm

      Can’t you do better than this Yes? The response against Key’s ill informed threat where he accuses the HRC of not understanding the law but then clearly showing that he does not understand the law is pretty overwhelming. Can’t you mount a better argument than this?

    • North 19.2
      12 July 2013 at 11:36 pm

      Yes above…….hahahahahahahahahahahaha.

      Such a powerful promotion of the bill…….hahahahahahahahahahaha !

  20. North 20
    12 July 2013 at 7:57 pm

    11,000 respondents Campbell Live. 85% “No” to GCSB Bill……..15% “Yes”.

    “I disagree ! Look, I’ll take you to Langley, Virginia, USA. Everyone there agrees with me, Warners in Hollywood too, akshilly”.

    (Langley, Virginia, USA – headquarters of the CIA).

    Prime Poncey Shonk Minster Circus, sorry for my tardiness with this “submission/report/comment/oh fuck what is it ? whatever”.

    Anyway it’s all Norman Kirk’s fault. And that bloody Bill Sutch. Always knew those too were up to no good. Forgive me Mine Emperor, My Fibbing Facileness. If there must be a cut let it be to my bennie not my throat…….pleeease.

  21. aj 21
    12 July 2013 at 8:06 pm

    As much Joyce’s grubby mitts over this as anyone else. Peas in a pod though.

  23. AmaKiwi 23
    12 July 2013 at 9:43 pm

    I can’t wait until Key gets pumped off. Then Judith “Crusher” Collins will be our PM.

    They are very different. Key wants to beat his opponents. Collins wants to destroy them.

    “A Brighter Future.”

    Yeah, right.

    • Colonial Viper 23.1
      12 July 2013 at 9:47 pm

      Not a chance in hell Labour will stand back and give the wickedness of Crusher Collins a chance at being PM in 2014. The red team will take National down like a sack of potatoes tossed off the back of a truck.

      Uh, uh, probably, ur, I think, ummmm right?

  24. Jackal 24
    12 July 2013 at 9:50 pm

    In light of recent events, I think The Standard should allow the word F@SCIST to be used without moderation.

  25. BrucetheMoose 25
    13 July 2013 at 12:44 am

    In typical Key fashion, he attacks and ridicules those who challenge him and his policies, calling the opinions raised by the HRC as “poor”, yet doesn’t back up his claims. In typical fashion, the wimpy media/journalists fail to challenge his comments. All the television media want nowadays is emotive story bites with no substance. Grow some journalistic teeth and ask WHY for cripes sake!

    • the pigman 25.1
      13 July 2013 at 1:03 am

      .. and miss that future opportunity to become Simon Bridges’ press secretary? Eckshully no..

      • North 25.1.1
        13 July 2013 at 4:25 am

        Pigman @ 25.1……….you got it in one.

        Potty Gower Judy bound ?

        Now that’s a picture !

  26. Veutoviper 26
    13 July 2013 at 7:29 am

    The HRC’s excellent press release on their report issued at 10.55am yesterday is well worth reading.

    It makes it very clear as to why they did a report – not a submission in the first two paragraphs.

    http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1307/S00135/human-rights-commission-report-on-security-and-intelligence.htm

    And for a satirical take – Scott at his best.

    http://www.imperatorfish.com/2013/07/human-rights-commission-to-be-put-out.html

    PS – hats off to the TS for the Feeds column. It is an great source for keeping up with other blogs etc

    EDIT – Adam Bennett in the Herald is “on the case” this morning – “Watchdog repel’s PM’s attack”.

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10897564

  27. Robert Glennie 27
    13 July 2013 at 4:38 pm

    Kia Ora

    Mr Key would not be pleased to note that in investigating my complaint to the Human Rights Commission about the Crown Mineral Amendments (Crown Land and Permitting)Bill, the Human Rights Commission found Mr Simon Bridges’ amendments to have breached human rights law.

    Rob

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

  • How to Factory Reset iPhone without Computer: A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring your Device
    Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs necessitate wiping your iPhone clean and starting anew. Whether you’re facing persistent software glitches, preparing to sell your device, or simply wanting a fresh start, knowing how to factory reset iPhone without a computer is a valuable skill. While using a computer with ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    7 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    8 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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    8 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    8 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    8 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    8 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    9 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    9 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
    10 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    11 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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    11 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, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    11 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, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    11 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
    11 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
    12 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
    15 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
    15 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
    15 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
    16 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 ...
    Open ParachuteBy Ken
    17 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
    18 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
    18 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
    18 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 ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    19 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
    22 hours ago

  • How extreme was the Earth's temperature in 2023
    This is a re-post from Andrew Dessler at the Climate Brink blog In 2023, the Earth reached temperature levels unprecedented in modern times. Given that, it’s reasonable to ask: What’s going on? There’s been lots of discussions by scientists about whether this is just the normal progression of global warming or if something ...
    Skeptical Science
    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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    2 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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Apposite Quotations.
    How Long Is Long Enough? Gaza under Israeli bombardment, July 2014. This posting is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...
    Bowalley Road
    2 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
    2 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 ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    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
    3 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 ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    4 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 ...

    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    5 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
    5 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 ...
    Bowalley Road
    5 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 ...
    Bowalley Road
    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 ...
    A Phuulish FellowBy strda221
    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
    6 days ago

  • The only thing we have to fear is tenants themselves
    1. Which of these acronyms describes the experience of travelling on a Cook Strait ferry?a. ROROb. FOMOc. RAROd. FMLAramoana, first boat ever boarded by More Than A Feilding, four weeks after the Wahine disaster2. What is the acronym for the experience of watching the government risking a $200 million break ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    7 days ago

  • Peters talks of NZ “renewing its connections with the world” – but who knew we had been discon...
    Buzz from the Beehive The thrust of the country’s foreign affairs policy and its relationship with the United States have been addressed in four statements from the Beehive over the past 24 hours. Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters somewhat curiously spoke of New Zealand “renewing its connections with a world ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    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 ...
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    5 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
    11 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
    12 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 ...
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    14 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 - ...
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    15 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
    17 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 ...
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    18 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 ...
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    23 hours 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 ...
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    1 day 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 ...
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    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, ...
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    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 ...
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    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 ...
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    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
    3 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 ...
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    3 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 ...
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    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 ...
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    6 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 ...
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    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 ...
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    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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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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