Reviews of Nats’ tax cut/Kiwisaver cut/R&D cut policy

Written By: - Date published: 7:27 pm, October 8th, 2008 - 37 comments
Categories: election 2008, kiwisaver, national, tax - Tags:

Just a quick note at the start for our press gallery friends who live in central Wellington on high incomes. 50% of New Zealanders have an income below $27,000 and 50% of workers earn less than $37,000 a year (all of which is heaps higher than it was under National). The point is this: National’s tax cuts are smaller for those people on middle incomes ($20,000-$40,000) than Labour’s are; $47,000 plus is not middle income.

The political actors weigh in on National’s tax cuts:

ACT: Not enough cut
Greens: More debt and poverty for those on middle incomes (20-40K)
NZF: What are tax cuts when your work rights are lost?
UF: Nats ignore low incomes, UF proposes income splitting (which benefits well-off)
Labour: Gutting Kiwisaver and R&D stupid, families get bigger cuts with Labour
NDU: Workers forgotten by National
EPMU: Top earners win, workers lose
PSA: Job cut fears
SFWU: Nats punish low income workers
NZEI: No service cuts but where’s the commitment to improving education?
CTU: Slashing Kiwisaver, no cuts for low incomes, bad for workers 
Business NZ: Small steps in the right direction
Employers’ and Manufacturers’ Association: Tax cuts good, R&D credit cuts bad, Kiwisaver cuts good
Manufacturing and Exporters’ Association: Bad call to cut R&D credit and Kiwisaver

Hardly glowing.

37 comments on “Reviews of Nats’ tax cut/Kiwisaver cut/R&D cut policy ”

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  1. Monty 1
    8 October 2008 at 7:50 pm

    After nine years of increased taxes under Cullen, then a relunctant and minor tax reduction weeks before an election the Labour Party will defeated, I am pleased that the Nats are going to give some tax relief to the hard working middle classes who have been bled dry by Cullen and Clark.

    I fully expect those comments from above, but understand that after Cullen has wrecked the economy and blown out the massive surpluses to massive deficits, then I am grateful that the Nats will win the election one month from today and again start the long process or repairing the economic foundations of New Zealand

  2. Brett Dale 2
    8 October 2008 at 7:58 pm

    And still National leads by 20 points.

  3. RedLogix 3
    8 October 2008 at 8:06 pm

    Monty,

    Unfortunately your idle fantasies are being drowned the financial apocalypse now swamping the world. The neoliberal ‘free market’, ‘greed is good’ religion that is all that the National Party believes in …is dead.

    Read the news buddy. You lost. You just do not realise it yet.

  4. rave 4
    8 October 2008 at 8:12 pm

    The level of statistical illiteracy in the media is striking. Must be all the business or media degrees or hip pockets as Steve suggests.

    The ‘average’ rules. ‘Middle’ income is equally misleading.

    Median and mode are more instructive but don’t cover the part of the population (around 2/3ds?)that will be worse off under the Nats.

    Maybe the ‘robbed’ as in ‘Peter and Paul’?

    Or Robin Hood?

  5. Greg 5
    8 October 2008 at 8:13 pm

    NZ has some of the lowest taxation in the OECD [1], hovering around _half_ of the average. Is that enough to provide quality services and infrastructure? The continual focus on tax cuts frustrates me – there are far more important issues for New Zealand to solve if the aim is to improve everyones living standards.

    [1] http://www.oecdobserver.org/news/fullstory.php/aid/2174/Tax_levels.html

  6. r0b 6
    8 October 2008 at 8:16 pm

    Ahh Monty – favourite saying “screw the poor”. You’re doing a fair job of appearing reasonable today.

    after Cullen has wrecked the economy and blown out the massive surpluses to massive deficits

    How often should I repeat these facts? As often as Monty and his ilk lie? It could go on for ever. NZ has a strong economy which is well placed to weather the current international financial crisis. See for example this Treasury summary:

    Economy well placed to meet challenges in 2008
    The New Zealand economy is well placed to meet challenges in 2008 but uncertainty and market volatility is likely to persist in the short term. In addition, the current high inflation environment further complicates the outlook for 2008. However, the sound fiscal position; the prospect of tax cuts; and the ability of the Reserve Bank to move quickly on interest rates, if growth and inflation drop more quickly than expected, mean that the New Zealand economy is well placed to meet potential challenges over the next year.

    Or how about Reserve Bank Governor Allan Bollard in January this year:

    New Zealand had responded positively to significant global shocks in the past few years, and there was no sign of those shocks abating, Dr Bollard said.

    “We have enjoyed a decade of growth, the longest period of economic growth since the post-World War 2 era. Inflation has been low, averaging 2.2 per cent since 1998. …

    “We have been able to absorb recent shocks reasonably well because of the improvements in our economic institutions and policymaking frameworks, avoiding the boom-bust cycles of the 1970s.”

    Though it is very early days even new policies like KiwiSaver are starting to show their potential in this respect:

    According to funds industry performance analyst FundSource, net outflows for the quarter of $48.6 million would have been much uglier without KiwiSaver inflows of $353 million. … Mr Atkins said the high voluntary uptake suggested a big proportion of the funds would be invested in growth assets. “This will provide a boost to the financial services industry, with greater funds under management also potentially boosting local equity markets.”

    With respect to the current international financial crisis and its effect on our economy Armstrong summarises:

    The ugly numbers are down to international circumstances. They are not the finance minister’s fault. But the update is so full of bad news that National is punting it will hang around Cullen’s neck through this campaign like the albatross around the neck of the Ancient Mariner.

    “Screw the poor” Monty and his ilk can’t win on the facts, but they just might win on the lies.

  7. milo 7
    8 October 2008 at 8:24 pm

    Greg, that only applies to single-earner two parent, two child families on the average income. That’s not really representative. Also, the figures are old. Now that we have introduced Kiwisaver they will be higher.

    r0b; just want to be clear. Is ten years of deficits, and debt peaking at 30% of GDP okay with you? If not, what should Labour do different?

  8. Robinsod 8
    8 October 2008 at 8:48 pm

    milo – debt peaking at 30% of GDP is not bad at all given the current international climate. You liked the idea of taking a global perspective when it comes to wealth how about when it comes to debt rations? Let’s see…

    The US (a special case for a whole lot of reasons, not least the fact the US dollar is the international currency): around 67%

    Britain: 43%

    France: 65%

    Canada: 29%

    I couldn’t find Aussie’s (their private debt to GDP is about 280% but I’d say they have considerable govt wealth to offset that).

    Y’see your problem is you keep setting the parameters to suit your argument but the result is retardedly transparent…

  9. Macro 9
    8 October 2008 at 8:58 pm

    Monty

    And you think think that the National Party grab bag for the rich is going to make it better? Mate they will cut out all R&D initiatives in industry – forcing more of our brightest and best off shore. The proposals for Kiwisaver will move more debt into the private sector – which is already more than enough. Where is the foresight in this?? Under National’s tax package. Over 80% of the lolly scramble will go to the earners in the top 30% of income. Now you tell me that that is fair. And just before you tell me to go out and work hard and make more money – I’m well into the top 5% of income already so yes – I would receive a big hand out. (And I live in JK’s electorate) But I think the package STINKS!!

    A person on the median wage would be crazy to vote National because they offer them NOTHING! And that mate is half the working population.

  10. Robinsod 10
    8 October 2008 at 9:01 pm

    A person on the median wage would be crazy to vote National because they offer them NOTHING!

    To be fair bro they do offer them the chance to pay more tax than they would under labour and I’m sure it’ll give them a nice warm feeling to know they’re paying for my hookers and coke…

  11. Ianmac 11
    8 October 2008 at 9:07 pm

    I checked the tax advantages for my neighbours in view of John Key promising $50+ coming in tax relief. It seems I got it wrong. I looked up, for instance the tax relief for a couple with 2 children and an income in $20,000 to $36,000 bracket.
    In 2009 they get no improvement to their income under National tax package.
    In 2010 they get $5.72 less than Labour’s package.
    In 2011 they get $5.96 less than Labour’s package. Ref:NZEIR
    There were even less pleased when I told them that John Key said that the tax relief for those on a higher bracket was payed for by cutting back on Kiwsaver. Them’s the facts. Sorry.

  12. Robinsod 12
    8 October 2008 at 9:11 pm

    Ianmac – just tell them they are paying that money for the good of the country (and me) and it will trickle down to them eventually (especially if they have a good line on Colombian blow or a hot daughter…)

    That’ll make them feel better about voting National…

  13. Macro 13
    8 October 2008 at 9:16 pm

    Robinsod

    yep! Sorry I was looking at it from an entirely self-interested point of view!

  14. Robinsod 14
    8 October 2008 at 9:24 pm

    Typical bloody socialist – only interested in individual gain…

  15. Janet 15
    8 October 2008 at 9:36 pm

    So the effect of all this under Key – many public servants and others currently employed will lose their jobs as a consequence of the attack on the public service and the current economic crisis. They will then go on the unemployment benefit or only be able to find casual and part time work. They then fall into that low income category where they don’t get any relief from tax cuts, and will also have higher costs as funding is squeezed out of public services etc. In a few years time things will get so unequal and people so desperate that there will be another hikoi of hope and a left government will have to come in to clean up the mess.

  16. Robinsod 16
    8 October 2008 at 9:42 pm

    and a left government will have to come in to clean up the mess.

    but not all of it and not in a way that locks in real change. Lost opportunities I tells y’

  17. Pascal's bookie 17
    8 October 2008 at 9:45 pm

    … that there will be another hikoi of hope…

    Hope not. Pitchforks and torches.

  18. rolla_fxgt 18
    8 October 2008 at 9:48 pm

    Just wanted to query where you got your stats from (excuse me for questioning, but stats with out references leave me weary). And I assume that by differentiating between all NZer’s and workers, your trying to make the stats work to reinforce your idea.
    Also & most importantly, if as I assume the all NZer’s criteria you refer too, includes everyone, even those that don’t or cant work, then its just being disingenuous, or would you have babies working? I mean everyone excepts some people cant or wont work, even those on the hard right.

    This post reminds me of the quote, there’s lies damned lies & statistics.
    I’ve come down on some of the kiwiblog posters this week for lying and resorting to dirty tactics, so I’m calling you guys on the same. Debate the facts sure, but keep it relevant & honest.

    [it’s all adults, it doesn’t include people below 15 (that’s Stats’ measure for adult, not mine) – basically all adults need an income to support themselves and dependents. Ignoring the adults who aren’t in fulltime work (ie, the 500,000 superannuitants, the 250,000 students, 250,000 beneficiaries, and 500,000 part time workers is dumb, the figures are from stats. I’m sure you’ll know be withdrawing you’re accusation of distortion against me. SP]

  19. Macro 19
    8 October 2008 at 9:51 pm

    Janet
    But the fat cats will be fatter! 🙂

    Robinsod
    I’m a lost cause I’m afraid.
    maybe I should think about the good of others for a change.

  21. Macro 21
    8 October 2008 at 9:59 pm

    “This post reminds me of the quote, there’s lies damned lies & statistics.”

    Disreali said that and I used to quote it to all my students too!
    The facts and figures I have quoted are derived from recent treasury and ird tables on income and tax, and from the National press release.

  22. milo 22
    8 October 2008 at 10:01 pm

    Robinsod – I agree with you on debt. I had just thought you might agree with Dr Cullen, that 22% debt is reckless irresponsibility. I guess he just says whatever is convenient though.

    See ya.

  23. Macro 23
    8 October 2008 at 10:03 pm

    Hey!! Its easy it only costs 20 bucks – thanks for the link! I feel much better now.

  24. Robinsod 24
    8 October 2008 at 10:03 pm

    Why would I agree with Cullen? He’s just politicking – but he’s still a better FM than Key or English will ever be…

    edit – shit Macro – that was a joke! Now I feel really really stink…

  26. Macro 26
    8 October 2008 at 10:15 pm

    I’m just sortta wondering if I have to vote for them now?

    captcha : factories sell!!

    Sell Sell Sell!

  27. Pat 27
    8 October 2008 at 11:16 pm

    Ianmac wrote “I checked the tax advantages for my neighbours in view of John Key promising $50+ coming in tax relief. It seems I got it wrong. I looked up, for instance the tax relief for a couple with 2 children and an income in $20,000 to $36,000 bracket.
    In 2009 they get no improvement to their income under National tax package”.

    Ianmac – why are your neighbours earning less than $36K? Have you given them some advice as to how to find a better job or jobs? Instead, you expect them to stay on the same incomes in the next 3 years?

    Sorry folks, but minimum wage for a 40 hour week is $25K. So a couple should be earning at least $50K between them if their kids are at school. This is before the extra money they will get from Working for Families.

  28. the sprout 28
    9 October 2008 at 12:08 am

    Last time I noticed Key seemed to take pride in his Risk Taker image, most notable in recent times with his announcement that NZ First was permanantly off the menu. Well this as their major (some would say only) policy platform, this one is mighty risky tack for National.

    Of course in the current climate Key will be bending over backwards to nolonger look like a risk taker.

  29. Steve Pierson 29
    9 October 2008 at 12:13 am

    Pat. That assumes both are able to find fulltime work while raising kids. Pretty dumb assumption.

  30. the sprout 30
    9 October 2008 at 12:26 am

    i wonder if they got these guys to do the ‘research’ for the policy?
    http://www.newswire.co.nz/2008/10/eta/

  31. Paul Robeson 31
    9 October 2008 at 1:18 am

    Sorry guys, didn’t read through the thread apologies if this has already been brought up but the EMA summary is wrong.

    EMA says R & D loss bad, Kiwisaver they are positive about the changes. Or if they have negative thoughts they keep them to themselves.

  32. Steve Pierson 32
    9 October 2008 at 1:22 am

    Paul – you’re right, I was skimming and saw ‘…find Kiwisaver credits a bit loss’ and missed ’employers won’t’

  33. Dom 33
    9 October 2008 at 1:47 am

    The New Zealand Herald is still reporting that $48,000 is an average wage:

    “Mr Key said a worker on the average wage of about $48,000 would be better off”
    – http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz-election-2008/news/article.cfm?c_id=1501799&objectid=10536380

    The Dominion Post also still has it wrong:

    “National will deliver tax cuts worth $47 a week to workers on the average wage of $45,000”
    – http://www.stuff.co.nz/vote08/4720318a28435.html

    [the average wage is something in the late $40,000s ($47,000 last I saw) but it’s a silly yardstick if you’re wanting to find out how the typical Kiwi is affected. The best ‘typical Kiwi’ approximation has got to be median income for all adults – $27,000. Half of Kiwis have incomes within $15K either side of $27K. SP]

  34. Simple (renamed RC) 34
    9 October 2008 at 2:25 am

    Wow, unions oppose national policy. how is that news? Im off to a strip club to spend my tax cuts

  35. Lampie 35
    9 October 2008 at 8:29 am

    yay under National, I’ll be on welfare because of a ‘individual rebate’ 🙂

    TOTAL WELFARE STATE GOOOO NATIONAL

  36. vidiot 36
    9 October 2008 at 8:29 am

    So SP would classify a person who has an annual income of $94K as a ‘Rich Prick’ ?

    A] Probably Yes.

    So if you had a Kiwi family earning the same family income [94K, 2 x 47K average], you would consider this to be ‘average NZ’ and all AOK ?

    A] Probably Yes

    So why is it that a single income family, get’s tarred with the ‘Rich Prick’ moniker when they are in the same boat as the ‘Working Family’ ?

    Is that a double standard ?

  37. rolla_fxgt 37
    9 October 2008 at 10:45 am

    SP, yes I see where you’re coming from now & apoligise if any offence taken.
    But I still have an issue with that first stat, which has been played out in a few others comments after mine. Namely that some of those stats double count (I’m unsure if stats NZ account for this or not, so I may be barking up the wrong tree), as for example I’m a student, and I work part time & earn approximately $13,000 a year for my meagre effort, so I get counted in the student total, and the low earners total. Now to me this seems odd, because surely when trying to work out the wealth of earners, and the median wage, we should look only at those who work full time (35 hours or more a week), as of course those who are only part time will have a lower yearly salary, unless they have some ridiculously high paying job, in which case they’re very lucky.
    I know you may not be responsible for the stats, or even agree with the way they’re calculated, but to count those that willingly work only part time distorts the figures by dragging them down.

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    exhALANtBy exhalantblog
    2 days ago

  • Bread, and how it gets buttered
    Hey Uncle Dave, When the Poms joined the EEC, I wasn't one of those defeatists who said, Well, that’s it for the dairy job. And I was right, eh? The Chinese can’t get enough of our milk powder and eventually, the Poms came to their senses and backed up the ute ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Why Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating in the country
    Polling shows that Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any mayor in the country. Siting at -12 per cent, the proportion of constituents who disapprove of her performance outweighs those who give her the thumbs up. This negative rating is higher than for any other mayor ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

  • Justice for Gaza?
    The New York Times reports that the International Criminal Court is about to issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over their genocide in Gaza: Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • If there has been any fiddling with Pharmac’s funding, we can count on Paula to figure out the fis...
    Buzz from the Beehive Pharmac has been given a financial transfusion and a new chair to oversee its spending in the pharmaceutical business. Associate Health Minister David Seymour described the funding for Pharmac as “its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff”. ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • FastTrackWatch – The case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Bryce Edwards writes – Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Monday, April 29
    TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 10:10am on Monday, April 29:Scoop: The children's ward at Rotorua Hospital will be missing a third of its beds as winter hits because Te Whatu Ora halted an upgrade partway through to ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell on Iran killing its rappers, and searching for the invisible Dr. Reti
    span class=”dropcap”>As hideous as David Seymour can be, it is worth keeping in mind occasionally that there are even worse political figures (and regimes) out there. Iran for instance, is about to execute the country’s leading hip hop musician Toomaj Salehi, for writing and performing raps that “corrupt” the nation’s ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    3 days ago

  • Auckland Rail Electrification 10 years old
    Yesterday marked 10 years since the first electric train carried passengers in Auckland so it’s a good time to look back at it and the impact it has had. A brief history The first proposals for rail electrification in Auckland came in the 1920’s alongside the plans for earlier ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    3 days ago

  • Coalition's dirge of austerity and uncertainty is driving the economy into a deeper recession
    Right now, in Aotearoa-NZ, our ‘animal spirits’ are darkening towards a winter of discontent, thanks at least partly to a chorus of negative comments and actions from the Government Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • Disability Funding or Tax Cuts.
    You make people evil to punish the paststuck inside a sequel with a rotating castThe following photos haven’t been generated with AI, or modified in any way. They are flesh and blood, human beings. On the left is Galatea Young, a young mum, and her daughter Fiadh who has Angelman ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago

  • Of the Goodness of Tolkien’s Eru
    April has been a quiet month at A Phuulish Fellow. I have had an exceptionally good reading month, and a decently productive writing month – for original fiction, anyway – but not much has caught my eye that suggested a blog article. It has been vaguely frustrating, to be honest. ...
    A Phuulish FellowBy strda221
    3 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #17
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 21, 2024 thru Sat, April 27, 2024. Story of the week Anthropogenic climate change may be the ultimate shaggy dog story— but with a twist, because here ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • Pastor Who Abused People, Blames People
    Hi,I spent about a year on Webworm reporting on an abusive megachurch called Arise, and it made me want to stab my eyes out with a fork.I don’t regret that reporting in 2022 and 2023 — I am proud of it — but it made me angry.Over three main stories ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    3 days ago

  • Vic Uni shows how under threat free speech is
    The new Victoria University Vice-Chancellor decided to have a forum at the university about free speech and academic freedom as it is obviously a topical issue, and the Government is looking at legislating some carrots or sticks for universities to uphold their obligations under the Education and Training Act. They ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Winston remembers Gettysburg.
    Do you remember when Melania Trump got caught out using a speech that sounded awfully like one Michelle Obama had given? Uncannily so.Well it turns out that Abraham Lincoln is to Winston Peters as Michelle was to Melania. With the ANZAC speech Uncle Winston gave at Gallipoli having much in ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • 25
    She was born 25 years ago today in North Shore hospital. Her eyes were closed tightly shut, her mouth was silently moving. The whole theatre was all quiet intensity as they marked her a 2 on the APGAR test. A one-minute eternity later, she was an 8.  The universe was ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • Fact Brief – Is Antarctica gaining land ice?
    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. Is Antarctica gaining land ice? ...
    Skeptical Science
    4 days ago

  • Policing protests.
    Images of US students (and others) protesting and setting up tent cities on US university campuses have been broadcast world wide and clearly demonstrate the growing rifts in US society caused by US policy toward Israel and Israel’s prosecution of … Continue reading → ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    5 days ago

  • Open letter to Hon Paul Goldsmith
    Barrie Saunders writes – Dear Paul As the new Minister of Media and Communications, you will be inundated with heaps of free advice and special pleading, all in the national interest of course. For what it’s worth here is my assessment: Traditional broadcasting free to air content through ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: FastTrackWatch – The Case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its arguments for such a bold reform. ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    5 days ago

  • Luxon gets out his butcher’s knife – briefly
    Peter Dunne writes –  The great nineteenth British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, once observed that “the first essential for a Prime Minister is to be a good butcher.” When a later British Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, sacked a third of his Cabinet in July 1962, in what became ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago

  • More tax for less
    Ele Ludemann writes – New Zealanders had the OECD’s second highest tax increase last year: New Zealanders faced the second-biggest tax raises in the developed world last year, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says. The intergovernmental agency said the average change in personal income tax ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago

  • Real News vs Fake News.
    We all know something’s not right with our elections. The spread of misinformation, people being targeted with soundbites and emotional triggers that ignore the facts, even the truth, and influence their votes.The use of technology to produce deep fakes. How can you tell if something is real or not? Can ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago

  • Another way to roll
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago

  • Simon Clark: The climate lies you'll hear this year
    This video includes conclusions of the creator climate scientist Dr. Simon Clark. It is presented to our readers as an informed perspective. Please see video description for references (if any). This year you will be lied to! Simon Clark helps prebunk some misleading statements you'll hear about climate. The video includes ...
    Skeptical Science
    5 days ago

  • Cutting the Public Service
    It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    5 days ago

  • Luxon’s demoted ministers might take comfort from the British politician who bounced back after th...
    Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious:  we live in a troubled ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago

  • This is how I roll over
    1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    6 days ago

  • The Waitangi Tribunal is not “a roving Commission”…
    …it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisition   NOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes –  The High Court ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago

  • Is Oranga Tamariki guilty of neglect?
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same? Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago

  • Three Strikes saw lower reoffending
    David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago

  • Luxon’s ruthless show of strength is perfect for our angry era
    Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago

  • 'Lacks attention to detail and is creating double-standards.'
    TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    6 days ago

  • One Night Only!
    Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    6 days ago

  • What did Melissa Lee do?
    It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    6 days ago

  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #17 2024
    Open access notables Ice acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment: In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
    Skeptical Science
    6 days ago

  • Maori Party (with “disgust”) draws attention to Chhour’s race after the High Court rules on Wa...
    Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    7 days ago

  • Who’s Going Up The Media Mountain?
    Mr Bombastic: Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
    Bowalley Road
    7 days ago

  • “That's how I roll”
    It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    7 days ago

  • “Comity” versus the rule of law
    In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 week ago

  • Aotearoa: a live lab for failed Right-wing socio-economic zombie experiments once more…
    Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder. In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
    exhALANtBy exhalantblog
    1 week ago

  • Water is at the heart of farmers’ struggle to survive in Benin
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére Sosou Market gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
    Skeptical Science
    1 week ago

  • At a time of media turmoil, Melissa had nothing to proclaim as Minister – and now she has been dem...
    Buzz from the Beehive   Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 week ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    2 weeks 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
    2 weeks ago

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