Key’s earthquake ‘fun’

Written By: - Date published: 7:00 am, August 29th, 2013 - 76 comments
Categories: disaster, Gerry Brownlee, john key - Tags:

I missed this news somehow – no doubt in the excitement of the Labour leadership contest – but the government suffered a major court ruling against it over their ungenerous Christchurch earthquake pay-outs.

Their 50% offer for uninsured land (including vacant land that cannot be insured) was ruled to be inequitable and not in accordance with the law by the High Court.  Gerry Brownlee wasn’t in the spirit of helping those who’ve struggled for 2.5 years in the quake aftermath though and immediately announced an appeal.

But Key went one further, threatening to pull even the 50% deal:

“One option is the Government says: ‘Thanks very much, it’s been a lot of fun. If you don’t want to take the offer, that’s where it’s at’.”

Yup, a devastating earthquake and then finding your land red-zoned and worthless and the government discriminating against you, leading to a long expensive court-case is ‘a lot of fun‘ according to John Key.

As Rebuilding Christchurch have it:

hi-from-chch

 

Key’s since issued a Clayton’s apology (‘sorry if anyone was offended’), but given his high words and promises to the people of Christchurch in the wake of the disaster, one can seriously understand why most Kiwis struggle to believe him.

76 comments on “Key’s earthquake ‘fun’ ”

  1. BM 1

    What’s the difference in investing in a block of land and investing in a finance company?
    The way I see it, there’s no difference at all

    How many of these people brought sections as investments?

    • Pascal's bookie 1.1

      Ahem. SCF.

      • BM 1.1.1

        And?
        Its that some precedent, some politician did something unbelievably stupid and from that point on, the tax payer has to pick up the bill every time someones investment goes pear shaped?

        • Pascal's bookie 1.1.1.1

          You implied that investors in finance compnaies don’t get bailed out.
          But they do. For a lot more money, and when they should have been aware of the risks.
          It’s not my fault your distrcation turned out to be a bit foolish.

          • BM 1.1.1.1.1

            So you think these people should get bailed out because of SCF.?

            That’s the bench mark, does seem a bit fiscally irresponsible, but hey it’s only tax payers money,right?

            Plenty more where that came from.

            • Colonial Viper 1.1.1.1.1.1

              bailed out not “because of SCF”, but because the government should be willing to help ordinary people out, not just multi-millionaire mates.

            • ghostwhowalksnz 1.1.1.1.1.2

              Its cheaper than Funding another RWC or Americas Cup

              Then theres Meridian and Rio Tinto.

              Rio Tinto got a $30 mill ‘Golden hello’ fornsticking around after their previous contract they signed ‘went pear shaped’

        • geoff 1.1.1.2

          It is called a double standard, BM. National is happy to bailout corporates but will it help a handful of
          earthquake victims? Nope. National hates people. You support National. Why do you hate people, BM?

          • BM 1.1.1.2.1

            They’ve offered these people 50%, they’re lucky to be offered that.

            Maybe you could stump up with the balance Geoff, if you care so much about these poor investors.

            • geoff 1.1.1.2.1.1

              Yes, we’ve already established you hate people but we still dont why. Not enough hugs as a child?

            • vto 1.1.1.2.1.2

              Why did Brownlee offer others 100%?

              You will need to think carefully and comprehensively, taking into account all factors around the earthquakes, the red zones and their purpose, insurance, insurability, and the CERA legislation, in answering this. Oh and also the High Court case.

              Somehow I suspect that is all too much for Brain Minimum. You’re a waste of space on this issue bm.

            • Colonial Viper 1.1.1.2.1.3

              They’ve offered these people 50%, they’re lucky to be offered that.

              Why did SCF multi-milionaires and FOREIGNERS get offered 100% of their money back PLUS INTEREST?

              Why do you prefer rich foreigners to be helped, but say that ordinary NZers can’t be helped?

              Your sicko attitude is why Kiwis are going to kick National out in 13 months time. It’s embarrassing.

              • BM

                Why did SCF multi-milionaires and FOREIGNERS get offered 100% of their money back PLUS INTEREST?

                Because Cullen let them, you’d have to be a mug not to take up that offer.

                • One Anonymous Knucklehead

                  “Cullen let them”? Are you sure, BM, because I’m sure I recall something rather different. You wouldn’t be telling lies, as a perfect expression of everything you represent, now, would you?

                  I note the High Court has ruled the government acted illegally. Why are you cuddling up to low-life crims, BM?

                • Colonial Viper

                  Cullen? Why are you lying? It was a National Government which resigned SCF then made those decisions, why doesn’t a National Government choose to help out NZers but choose to help out dirty rich foreigners instead?

                  Key has just lost National another 20,000 Christchurch votes with his cocked up comments. Another 45,000 or so lost, and National will win the next election. He just burnt up a third of the National electoral lead, with one quip.

                  You’re fucked mate, the Tory government deserves to go out on its ear.

                • Lanthanide

                  Actually the deposit gaurantee scheme covered the initial deposits only, not the investment returns.

                  National decided to pay the investment returns anyway. So you can’t blame that on Cullen.

                  Then there’s the whole fact that actually the 1st scheme Cullen had created expired, and it was Bill English that signed SCF up to the 2nd tranche of it, without doing due-diligence as to whether all companies invited into the 2nd tranche had been properly playing by the rules. Had due diligence been done, nobody in their right mind would have allowed SCF to sign up.

                  How much of the above is actually news to you, or did you just conveniently hope that none of us here know the details of what really went down?

                • Jackal

                  Even Fran O’Sullivan doesn’t think the SCF was bailed out because “Cullen let them” BM. But don’t let the facts of the matter hit you on the ass on the way out.

            • Tracey 1.1.1.2.1.4

              BM, let me interrupt you with some facts.

              Cullen did not enable the payout to foreign investors in SCF, John Key did.

              “the Government had extended the payout to cover people not in the scheme, such as foreign investors,…” John Key 31/08/2010 as reported on Stuff

              The government “offer” to the red zone residents was not a genuine offer

              “…red zone residents faced with a Crown purchase offer, had no or little option but to accept it. In the first place the offers were pitched at a level sufficient to make them attractive, given that the subject land was not only damaged, but within the red zone. Particularly as areas became depopulated, infrastructure fell into disrepair and essential services came under threat, the outlook for property owners was bleak. In reality, they had but Hobson’s choice.” [93] High Court decision

            • ghostwhowalksnz 1.1.1.2.1.5

              What about the CBD ‘frame’ . The government is compulsorily purchasing the land there.

              No red zone, its perfectly build able and well located, some still have occupied buildings

              But no , Nanny state has decided to prop up land values in the CBD by reducing the land zoned commercial. By government fiat they are given their land value wheter they like it or not

              Christchurch is riddled with inconsistencies like this. THis is the core of the Court decision

              • Tracey

                +1

                The core of the decision is condemnation of inequity and acting without authority. This government doesn’t care about the first and believes the second is ok cos they “know what’s best”

                That smacks not of nanny state but authoritarian state.

                I have read many legal decisions in my life. This decision is squarely accusing the government of being bullies.

            • quinnjin 1.1.1.2.1.6

              Land is not a risky investment, earth quakes are not relatively foreseeable market events. losses due to earthquakes are not down to mismanagement, unlike the SCF situation. Your comparing apples with oranges. therefore, your argument is invalid. Now quit your whining. National party fan boy.

              • quinnjin

                Also, the land owners are only asking for market value, also making your “investment risk” argument invalid.

    • Tracey 1.2

      In residential areas you can expect the land to have a home built on it.

      Bothered to read the decision yet BM?

      http://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-28082013/#comment-687063

      “I see no difference at all”

      The difference is outlined below.

      The Government drafted the earthquake legislation. They actually drafted two pieces, one after the first earthquake and another later. So they had two chances to get it right.

      They also made lots of statements in public and private about the intention of their legislation.

      The High Court decision is that they then dealt with these people contrary to the very legislation (and its purpose) that they (Govt) had prescribed.

      vacant land owners could not get insurance. It is not a question of them not wanting it.

      The bottom-line however is that this government made statutory promises through the ACT and its purpose and then acted contrary to it.

      Put it this way, the majority of vacant and uninsured have already been fucked by the Govt acting outside its power (and this decision wont change that), so you can take some solace.

      The total cost of to the country to top up the first unlawful offer by the government is

      $12.54m

      BTW there is no proof, and none was offered by the Crown in its case that people will not insure if the govt pays the uninsured 100%

      Remember when the Govt paid out $20m to foreign investors in SCF? Wouldn’t a good kiwi bloke like the Pm think these Canterbury kiwis are more worthy of our support than the foreign folks taking a roll of the dice on investments? Investor beware and all that? AND this payout was done after English had a chance to cancel the govt guarantee scheme of Cullen… he knew the implications, he had advice it was going to fail, and he did it anyway.

      How about that for a precedent?

      • One Anonymous Knucklehead 1.2.1

        Nice one Tracey. Keep hounding the lying little twerp.

      • vto 1.2.2

        Yes well spelled out Tracey, although there is one other fact worth highlighting….

        The cost to the taxpayer of topping up the 50% offer is $12 million.

        The cost to the taxpayer of paying out South Canterbury Finance investors was $1,700 million.

        To picture that difference try this… Here is one $ representing the cost for these red zoners

        $

        Here are the $ representing the cost for SCF investors

        $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

      • bad12 1.2.3

        Yes the High Court ruling was based around the Governments own CERA Legislation, there cannot be then a precedent in Law from this decision which effects some future event or disaster,

        BM’s continual whine here is reflective of the little temper tantrum thrown by Slippery the Prime Minister and Brownlee as the CERA Minister over the High Court decision,

        Discriminating against property owners who had not taken out private insurance beforhand or had allowed their insurance to lapse is something we all ‘know’ might leave us without recourse should the house catch fire or some other ‘known’ disaster occur,

        Discriminating against people not insured because bare-land property cannot be insured in this country is another story entirely,

        The decision from the High Court was an excellent effort from the Bench relying simply on the clauses of the CERA Legislation to come to it’s conclusion and the cost to the Government is a mere raindrop in comparison to the total cost of the rebuild…

        • Tracey 1.2.3.1

          Mostly BM just doesn’t want to address the appalling machievellian response of Key to not “winning”.

          • bad12 1.2.3.1.1

            The only thing ever proved by the likes of BM and the other shills who wash up on these shores for an occasional burst of invective is that (a) the constant call for a better class of wing-nut is obviously based upon the fact that the current crop are basically useless, mere functional idiots,

            And (b), Did they really all go to private schools, if so they should all be demanding their money back and readying the bulldozers to demolish such shoddy institutions of learning…

        • vto 1.2.3.2

          “the cost to the Government is a mere raindrop in comparison to the total cost of the rebuild”

          I feel another representation coming on…

          Dollars to top up the 50% offer people

          $

          Dollars the government is spending in Christchurch

          $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$ $$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

          • bad12 1.2.3.2.1

            Vto,Lolz, Ouch, that does things to my eyeballs what eyeballs were not meant to suffer,

    • One Anonymous Knucklehead 1.3

      In actual fact, BM, this is about Key’s clumsy, callous words, and more particularly his failure to apologise for them.

      I note that when your opinion differs from that of the High Court, it’s irrelevant, and when it agrees, it’s redundant.

      • Sable 1.3.1

        BM’s an ignoramus.Why waste words when the facts drown out his/her inane bleating.

        • Tracey 1.3.1.1

          Because, presented with facts, someone who believes BM’s drivel on this topic, might see through the bullshit.

          SCF

          “All assets have now been realised from the liquidated finance company, with $774.4m recovered, the latest report from receivers Kerryn Downey and William Black states…

          The receivers were appointed on August 31, 2010, and on June 7 last year, liquidators PricewaterhouseCoopers were appointed.

          The 2-year receivership has cost $936,852 in legal fees.

          The six-month liquidation cost $50,000 in fees ” 2013 stuff.co.nz

          “While it laid out $1.775 billion yesterday, the Government expects its eventual loss will be reduced to about $600 million once the company’s assets are realised over three or four years. That is included in $900 million it has set aside to cover its net losses under the guarantee…

          WHAT IT WILL COST

          * $1.7 billion

          What the Government spent yesterday bailing out South Canterbury’s investors

          * $1.17 billion

          What the Government expects to recover from South Canterbury’s receivership

          * $600 million

          Final bill for taxpayers”

          from stuff.co.nz in 2010 “

          • Sable 1.3.1.1.1

            So present your own argument Tracey rather than responding to BM’s. In that way you don’t validate their comments in any way…

            • Tracey 1.3.1.1.1.1

              um… okaaaaaaaaaaaaay.

              I feel like I just got caught running in the hallway.

              • Sable

                Up to you Tracey but if you bite down on their comments it does tend to suggest they may have a point, even if its a bad one.

                • Tracey

                  how I felt when I got caught running in the hallway was

                  “Damn I know I shouldn’t do it but it’s hard to resist.” So, I took your comment onboard.

                  • Tautoko Viper

                    Great effort, Tracey. Keep running in the hallway. Sometimes you have to explain facts in several different ways before comprehension dawns. Teachers understand this.

                • Bastables

                  So we should just not pull up liers. One should never confront a lier at all . . .
                  Sod that if some one talks bullshit like BM he should be pulled up on it. Tracey bothered to and highlighted how much of a lier BM is, it is proper and right.

                • freedom

                  Sable, I think you are overlooking one of the many advantages of blogs in dealing with propaganda based lies, especially when those lies pertain to government spin junkies such as BM.

                  Although a casual visitor may agree with the view expressed by BM they may simply not be aware of the reality that contradicts it. By being exposed to the facts of a situation, such as those outlined above by Tracey, many people have their views challenged. I am convinced there are numerous posts all over The Standard that have been fundamental in building a platform of reconsideration for many National voters.

                  BM, srylands, and a few others are merely tools to be used in the constructive and practical presentation of fact based dialogue.

                  • bad12

                    It does become tiresome tho, we could be forgiven for suspecting that we are being ‘gamed’ by the shills who simply bring up the same old bullshit time after time and once the effort is put in to provide the proof to these wing-nuts that their bulls**t is just that a BM is then replaced with another and the process of education must start all over again..

                    • freedom

                      which is why some tools end up being thrown at the wall and you are left with the emptiness of wasted effort

                      so you pick up the next tool and try to learn from your mistakes 🙂

  2. Sable 2

    I remember a few posts back how right wingers were commenting on how no one could manage the Christchurch crisis like National and they were right. No one could handle it as badly or callously.

    I did say that Keys and co would face a legal backlash over their mishandling of the disaster and surprise, surprise, here we are.

  3. Appleboy 3

    BM has to take the prize for the right winger with the most vile and violent persona I have ever come across. I have never seen a thread of comments spewed forth so lacking in decency, caring or empathy. This much greed and self interest always gets them, one dayor obey won’t solve your issues.

    • Sable 3.1

      Take a look at the Whale Oil site if you want a real insight into how these people think. I don’t believe in concepts such as good or evil but these creeps are about as close as you will get to the latter in my humble opinion…

      • chris 3.1.1

        Sending people to read “Whaleoil” is inhumane punishment. Probably outlawed by the UN 🙂

      • Tracey 3.1.2

        don’t go there. You click and you are indirectly generating revenue and ratings for them.

        • Plan B 3.1.2.1

          agree re Whale Oil. yes someone has to make the sacrifice and go there so everyone else can know what they are on about but we should not all visit the site.
          1. It is pure poison
          2. It makes them money

        • chris 3.1.2.2

          I did not know that… thank you for the heads up.

          Rarely go anyway, but occasionally something has piqued my interest.

        • Pete 3.1.2.3

          And the vast majority of posts there are items reposted from Reddit

  4. burt 4

    Their 50% offer for uninsured land (including vacant land that cannot be insured) was ruled to be inequitable

    I added that emphasis ….

    It’s simply not fair that the government isn’t using more of our tax payers money to make sure private property owners who didn’t have insurance….

    Oh yes, lets make sure socialism rewards the land owners by extracting money from renters all over the country…..

    • vto 4.1

      Here is a representation of the number and complexity of issues involved in the red zone buyout offers;

      issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue issue

      Here is a representation of the things Burt thinks are relevant in this matter;

      iss

    • Tracey 4.2

      I can’t find this statement “Their 50% offer for uninsured land (including vacant land that cannot be insured) was ruled to be inequitable” in the actual decision of the court.

      I did find statements from the judge that the issue of inequity was applicable to “ALL APPLICANTS”

      “[95] The lack of even-handedness argument however, has I think considerable merit. Clearly, the main impetus for the June 2011 decision to make 100 percent offers to insured property owners was the need to provide certainty and create the confidence necessary to enable people to move on with their lives, given that “many people have their life savings tied up in their homes”, to borrow the Prime Minister’s phrase. Importantly, these considerations apply equally to many of the applicants, particularly those who are the owners of uninsured house properties.

      [96]
      Yet it is apparent that payments of 50 percent of the land rating value will not enable many property owners to make a fresh start. This is clear from the questionnaires completed by applicants in the Outcasts’ proceeding. Many owners are people of modest means, some are elderly and it is commonplace that their land and home is their one substantial asset. I am satisfied that the plight of this relatively small group has not been adequately considered in light of the purposes of the Act.”

      • Tracey 4.2.1

        sorry my attempt to bold the last part of [95] failed (so ignore emphasis added)

        “particularly those who are the owners of uninsured house properties.”

        [Bunji: I added the desired emphasis…]

      • vto 4.2.2

        Keep going Tracey, you’re all over it in highlighting the nastiness of John Key and Gerry Brownlee towards “people of modest means, some are elderly”

      • burt 4.2.3

        given that “many people have their life savings tied up in their homes”

        Yep, people who don’t earn enough to own a property should be having their tax used to insulate people who invested all their eggs in one basket – socialism at it’s finest … steal from the poor to give to the rich !!!!!!! Can’t have the rich loosing out on their poorly managed investment capital can we….

        • framu 4.2.3.1

          isnt the issue the forced aquisition of land by the govt and the recompense from that – not the issue of who had insurance and who didnt?

          • burt 4.2.3.1.1

            Perhaps the issue is people were compensated a lot more than the land is now worth but less than it use to be worth….

            Is it right for people to be compensated with tax payers money for private property investment that didn’t work out like they had hoped it would ?

            • Tracey 4.2.3.1.1.1

              Is it right for elderly and low income people to lose their home when the Govt promised (on behalf of us all) to allow them to get on with their lives.

              yes, one party is a developer, but it is a mixed group.

              The people I suspect you are really angry about have already got their 100% payouts.

              • burt

                I’ve not known many genuine low income people who own central city real estate – but hey – the expedient definition of low income is possibly something I’m not understanding?

                • Tracey

                  I was referring to your earlier comments as well, about the court decision or are you only talking about the CBD? Sorry, my confusion

            • framu 4.2.3.1.1.2

              burt – pull your head in and stop being a dick

              1) the council and govt through direct aquisition of land or by denial of services are forcing people of the land

              2) the red zone is more than the inner city

              sure theres going to be some uninsured, and some developers mixed in there but they arent the main issue here – its about the people who wrote law, not abiding by the law they wrote and not being consistant with the application of the law

              Would you change your tune if the govt made a retrospective change?

  5. Craig GlenEden 5

    Great Stuff Tracey thanks for all the work. BM totally owned what a twat.

  6. Adrian 6

    I think the point is that the Government is ” compulsarily acquiring” the land, with a view to development and sale or use in the distant future.
    Correct me if I’m wrong but the last time we did this, acquiring land for a fraction of value, a few muskets etc, it didn’t turn out all that well.
    A reverse corollary is the conversion of high country leases to freehold for huge capital gain for, oh bugger me, lifetime Tories. Fancy that.

    • Tracey 6.1

      Interesting points Adrian.

      definition of red zone in the HC decision

      “The red zone was reserved for areas where rebuilding was not likely to occur in the short to medium term due to significant land and infrastructure damage, and a high risk of further damage from aftershocks, flooding or spring tides.”

      “rebuilding not likely to occur in short to medium term.”

      and then

      “What will happen to my property if I decide that I do not want to accept the Crown’s offer?
      If you decide that you do not want to accept the Crown’s offer you should be aware that:
      The Council will not be installing new services in the residential red zone.

      If only a few people remain in a street and/or area, the Council and other utility providers may reach the view that it is no longer feasible or practical to continue to maintain services to the remaining properties.

      Insurers may cancel or refuse to renew insurance policies for properties in the residential red zones.

      While no decisions have been made on the ultimate future of the land in the residential red zones, CERA does have powers under the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Act 2011 to require you to sell your property to CERA for its market value at that time. If a decision is made in the future to use these powers to acquire your property, the market value could be substantially lower than the amount that you would receive under the Crown’s offer.

      Mr Brownlee and Mr Sutton made similar remarks to these in media interviews”

      • jaymam 6.1.1

        I can’t see if this is mentioned anywhere in the thread, but when land is originally subdivided into sections, the developer has to pay a rather large “reserve contribution” to the Council. I believe that means that the Council is therefore guaranteeing that the land is suitable for building on. So if the land becomes unsuitable, the owners should be compensated, out of the “reserve contribution”.
        In the case of Christchurch it is clear that the Council did not require the developer to have engineers test the land like other councils do, e.g. in Auckland. The known history of earthquakes in Christchurch from 1970, and allowing subdivisions near rivers makes the Council even more culpable. They should pay up!

  7. tricledrown 7

    Lanthanide don’t forget rio tinto’s $546 million bail out the appointment of trougher shipley at $400,000+.
    Rio Tinto get $476 million subsidized electricity $30 million cash .Nact govt covering up the real cost of meridian by selling $160 million wind farm in Australia.
    The Eastern suburbs of ChCh are labour strong holds that’s why MurKey and Brownoselee are laughing and don’t care.
    Remember Key and Brownlee promising no one will miss out every one will be looked after straight after the quakes.
    As per usual the only ones not missing out are Nationals mates.

  8. tricledrown 8

    Ed Hillary showed the world the selflesness sharing and caring that NZ is famous for!
    Now SmurKey is showing how selfish NZ is becoming under his narcisistic flipant bullying leadership!

    • burt 8.1

      Yes indeed. Developers and speculators owning bare central city land which they plan to develop for a large profit deserve to dip into the pockets of struggling renters when things don’t go their way !!!!!!!!

      • framu 8.1.1

        did you even read any of either the court decision or the articles linked to?

        your engaging in derailment and distraction – stop generating your usual one man, one trick side show

  9. BrucetheMoose 9

    In a nut shell, the government has abused it’s authority and used the earthquakes and it’s invented legislation to corner a minority and try and force them to give up their properties on the cheap. Now Key and His Corruptness don’t like being challenged on it and are throwing their toys out of their cots like spoilt brats that they truly are.
    If they thought it was “very very fair” and justified as they always claimed, then why did they deliberately wait to announce the decision so far down the track so as to make sure they were a smaller group to deal with?
    Why did they announce the decision on the same day as the school closure debacle to purposely create a smoke screen for the public and media diversion.?
    Why did they tell those who initially challenged the decision, specifically not to go to the media, and once the media did get traction on this subject, why did Brownlee and Sutton immediately embark on a concerted campaign of trying to portray most land owners as “Well off Developers” and irresponsible for not insuring their properties, when in fact most were honest hard working kiwi families and couldn’t insure their land even if they tried?

  10. RedBaronCV 10

    Pity John Key doesn’t reserve some of his odium for the insurance companies who are making out like bandits to the tune of about $1 billion a year from all us home owners.
    Link below is to an earlier post on this. I saw on a business page a comment that supported house premiums as being in the $750 to $1250 range.
    After all EQC had about $12 billion from our tiny $50 per house per annum.

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    Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough.  Greenpeace says ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    12 hours ago
  • Luxon Strikes Out.
    I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    15 hours ago
  • In many ways the media that the experts wanted, turned out to be the media they have got
    Chris Trotter writes –  Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    15 hours ago
  • The Waitangi Tribunal Summons; or the more things stay the same
    Graeme Edgeler writes –  This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    16 hours ago
  • Both Parliamentary watchdogs hammer Fast-track bill
    Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General, John Ryan, has joined the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    16 hours ago
  • India makes a big bet on electric buses
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah Spengeman People wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
    18 hours ago
  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 6:36am on Tuesday, April 23
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 6:36am on Tuesday, April 22:Scoop & Deep Dive: How Sir Peter Jackson got to have his billion-dollar exit cake and eat Hollywood too NZ Herald-$$$ Matt NippertFast Track Approval Bill: Watchdogs seek substantial curbs on ministers' powers ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    20 hours ago
  • What is really holding up infrastructure
    The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    22 hours ago
  • “Pure Unadulterated Charge”
    Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    22 hours ago
  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks for Monday, April 22
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: writes via his substack that’s he’s sceptical about the IPSOS poll last week suggesting a slide into authoritarianism here, writing: Kiwis seem to want their cake and eat it too Tal Aster writes for about How Israel turned homeowners into YIMBYs. writes via his ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago
  • The media were given a little list and hastened to pick out Fast Track prospects – but the Treaty ...
     Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago
  • Just trying to stay upright
    It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago
  • “Unprecedented”
    Today, former Port of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson went on trial on health and safety charges for the death of one of his workers. The Herald calls the trial "unprecedented". Firstly, it's only "unprecedented" because WorkSafe struck a corrupt and unlawful deal to drop charges against Peter Whittall over Pike ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Time for “Fast-Track Watch”
    Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell on fast track powers, media woes and the Tiktok ban
    Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
    2 days ago
  • The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    Bryce Edwards writes-  The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    2 days ago
  • Maori push for parallel government structures
    Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • An announcement about an announcement
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    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • All the Green Tech in China.
    Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago
  • Western Express Success
    In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
    2 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 7:16am on Monday, April 22
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 7:16am on Monday, April 22:Labour says Kiwis at greater risk from loan sharks as Govt plans to remove borrowing regulations NZ Herald Jenee TibshraenyHow did the cost of moving two schools blow out to more than $400m?A ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
    2 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • Thank you
    This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Determining the Engine Type in Your Car
    Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
    3 days ago
  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
    3 days ago
  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
    3 days ago
  • Who Makes Mazda Cars?
    Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
    3 days ago
  • How Often to Replace Your Car Battery A Comprehensive Guide
    Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
    3 days ago
  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
    In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the Rule If you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
    3 days ago
  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
    Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
    3 days ago
  • What Are Struts on a Car?
    Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
    3 days ago
  • What Does Car Registration Look Like: A Comprehensive Guide
    Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
    Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
    3 days ago
  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    3 days ago
  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    3 days ago
  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
    In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
    3 days ago
  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
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    3 days ago
  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
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    3 days ago
  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
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    3 days ago
  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
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    3 days ago
  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
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    3 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
    In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
    A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
    3 days ago
  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    You talking about me?  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    4 days ago
  • A crisis of ambition
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    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
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    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
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    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago
  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    4 days ago
  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    4 days ago
  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    4 days ago
  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    4 days ago
  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
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    4 days ago
  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
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    4 days ago
  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
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    4 days ago
  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
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    4 days ago
  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
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    4 days ago
  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    4 days ago
  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
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    4 days ago
  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
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    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    4 days ago
  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
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    PunditBy Brian Easton
    4 days ago
  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago
  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago
  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago
  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    10 hours ago
  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    17 hours ago
  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    17 hours ago
  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    18 hours ago
  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
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  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
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