Sky City, pokies and corruption

Written By: - Date published: 7:56 am, May 13th, 2013 - 51 comments
Categories: accountability, capitalism, child welfare, corruption, democracy under attack, john key, Public Private Partnerships, same old national, slippery, Steven Joyce - Tags: ,

So John Key’s (and Stephen Joyce’s) National party made sure Gilmore was out of the way before they announced their dubious Sky City for (more) pokies deal.  The pokies system in NZ is rife with dubious goings on. An article this morning on Stuff, reports on Joyce’s announcement on RNZ:

A $350 million deal to supply Sky City Casino with more pokies in exchange for a national convention centre is set to be formally announced today.

The controversial deal will see Sky City build and operate a national convention centre in exchange for changes to existing laws over the operation of casinos.

Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce confirmed on Radio NZ this morning the deal would see more pokie machines at the casino.

The article recaps that a report by Deputy Auditor-General Phillippa Smithon the Sky City deal stated there was:

 … lack of documentation and analysis for the procurement process.

There was too much focus on the politics and commercial interest and not enough on proper process, Smith’s report said.

“Although decisions were made on the merits of the different proposals, we do not consider that the evaluation process was transparent or even handed.”

Pokies are about the most addictive form of gambling. I posted before on the problems of NZ’s pokie industry  in Pokies and corruption.  I’ll repeat my comments, without the quotes from articles:

How deep does it go?

Steve Kilgallon, in today’s Stuff [31 March 2013], is reporting that evidence of wrong doing by Pokie trusts, presented to Internal Affairs mysteriously went missing. The article, perhaps necessarily because of lack of evidence, provides the most positive slant on the disappearance, putting it down to sloppiness.

It is all a bit murky.  But back in November 2010 shortly after the investigation began, Graeme Ramsey of the Problem Gambling Foundation predicted there was more evidence of abuse of the funding of Pokies trusts to come.

It seems like some in the pokie industry have a lot of influence and a long reach.  Some in this industry benefited from John Key and Steven Joyce’s SkyCity convention centre deal.  The deal was made through flawed processes, as argued by the Green Party:

The end result of this flawed process was a deal that would include an increase in SkyCity pokie machines.  Meanwhile, increasing numbers of children are left unattended around SkyCity’s gambling areas.

Significant International Affairs files going missing, deals made through flawed government processes.

So NZ is not a corrupt country, then, just one governed through sloppy processes?

Cui bono?

[update: responses, opposition]

As reported by Adam Bennett and John Armstrong in the NZ Herald (Dunne will vote for the enabling Bill and the Maori Party against).  Planned “harm minimisation” procedures may be inadequate, and

Labour Leader David Shearer last night said his party objected to the deal on two ground.

The first was that it was “a shonky process”.

“Obviously there was a backroom deal done between John Key and and his mates at SkyCity,” he said.

…

“Secondly, I personally find it objectionable to build a convention centre effectively on the backs of problem gamblers.”

TVNZ reports, that there is still a question mark over the TVNZ land require for the convention centre site:

“John Key keeps saying this deal is good because it’s essentially free. The cost of the deal is the social harms caused by increased gambling,” said Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei.

She added Key “has got a lot of political capital riding on this deal happening and he is going to ram it through regardless”.

…

“I think SkyCity wants that land for free. I think they want this as part of the deal and that is the a cost to the Government and the public,” Turei said.

51 comments on “Sky City, pokies and corruption ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. CnrJoe 1
    13 May 2013 at 8:04 am

    this govt makes me feel dirty

    clean green nz – yeah – Right

  3. mickysavage 3
    13 May 2013 at 8:29 am

    They have given Sky an extension of its licence to 2048 from 2021 as part of the deal …

    • DH 3.1
      13 May 2013 at 11:19 am

      What wasn’t mentioned in the news was that in conjunction with the extension they’ve also made an agreement to compensate SkyCity if any future government makes changes to gambling laws that might affect SkyCity’s profits.

      Pretty cosy deal huh. Guaranteed monopoly rights for the next 35 years.

  4. David H 4
    13 May 2013 at 8:48 am

    What I want to know is how much Key and co are going to make out of this in the long run?
    ie: share packages ‘just to show our appreciation’.

    Also it now shows the rest of the world the cost of doing business in NZ is cheap. Just take out the PM for dinner a few times, he won’t remember it.

  5. David H 5
    13 May 2013 at 9:09 am

    Why isn’t John Key announcing this? As it was all his back room dealings that made it happen. Or is it so poisonous that Key don’t want a bar of it? Or is Joyce being touted as the next leader because Key has had enough, and is pissing off to Hawaii to make a fortune off of what he knows about NZ?

  6. DH 6
    13 May 2013 at 9:15 am

    This is a black day for NZ. No-one can convince me that money hasn’t changed hands here, this ranks up with the worst commercial deals I’ve ever seen and I’ve made some boners of my own that I’d be embarassed to tell anyone about.

    The Govt has gifted SkyCity an enormous commercial advantage over every other business in Auckland and a person with Key’s background must surely know that. They’ve already been quietly building a small business empire and this gifts SkyCity more control over the CBD.

    SkyCity already have a monopoly on casino gambling in Auckland. Now they have a monopoly on convention centre business. I find it inconceivable that anyone with serious business nous would allow that to happen. We’ve got a supposed free-market mob in Treasury & the likes and they say nothing about a deal that’s as anti-competitive as you can get.

    The gaming concessions almost certainly represent the extra business that SkyCity expect to generate from the convention centre. They’ve just been gifted a new captive market of fresh meat who can be directed to stay at SkyCity hotels, eat at SkyCity restaurants, gamble at SkyCity casinos etc etc. As operator of the convention centre they’ll take a lot of the bookings and enquiries which is a hugely unfair commercial advantage.

    The media have failed us badly on this.

    • Rich the other 6.1
      13 May 2013 at 10:40 am

      DH,

      ( enormous commercial advantage over every other business ?? )

      It’s not a monopoly ,you can have one to , just come up with the money.

      Key expects up to 5 million tourists a year from China , many of them love to have a gamble.
      Big Chinese business will utilise the convention centre , combining work and recreation.

      It’s pay day, just get on with it.

      • Kelt 6.1.1
        13 May 2013 at 10:44 am

        Absolutely agree

      • DH 6.1.2
        13 May 2013 at 11:08 am

        Of course it’s a monopoly you cretin. SkyCity aren’t paying a cent for the convention centre, the gaming & licence concessions they’re receiving have been valued at the same cost as the centre. Who else can build a convention centre on those terms?

        • Rich the other 6.1.2.1
          13 May 2013 at 11:33 am

          DH,
          Isn’t that what I said , Just Come Up With The Money,
          Sky city have worked out a way to do it, you could try, good luck!

          The bottom line is , Tourists need attractions to spend their money on ,this is another option for them.
          Not all tourists want to wonder around the hills and if they did the greens would object ,they might tread on a worm or something.

          • karol 6.1.2.1.1
            13 May 2013 at 11:52 am

            Sky City were given opportunities to come up with the money, in a way given to no other organisation.

          • DH 6.1.2.1.2
            13 May 2013 at 11:58 am

            Pay attention Rich, we were talking about monopolies and anti-competitive behaviour here. I bet your school report card read “could try harder”

            • Rich the other 6.1.2.1.2.1
              13 May 2013 at 12:24 pm

              DH,
              Lets invite in another big international casino operator , quadruple the amount of gambling facilities and they could build a second convention centre , would that make you happy??.

              NZ is not closed to other operators, it’s open to competition.

              Again , you to can have one , just come up with the money, sky city has.

              • One Anonymous Knucklehead …
                13 May 2013 at 12:28 pm

                Insider trading your way to brighter future?

              • Draco T Bastard …
                13 May 2013 at 12:35 pm

                Again , you to can have one , just come up with the money, sky city has.

                Actually, it hasn’t – the government has.

              • DH …
                13 May 2013 at 1:08 pm

                You’re not exactly impressing anyone with your business acumen here Rich. It obviously hasn’t occured to you yet that the Govt could simply have sold SkyCity the extra licences and then they’d have the cash to build a convention centre free of any onerous conditions or monopoly rights. Flush with cash they could then tender it out to to the best offer that benefits Auckland instead of a deal that benefits SkyCity.

                They could also have taken the opportunity to bring some competition to the casino industry by offering up the licences as a new casino licence. They could open it up to tenders from other casino operators who are very, very, keen to set up operations here and who would pay more than SkyCity just get a foothold in the NZ market.

                The Govt would collect more than $400million from that, we’d get all the economic benefits from building a new casino and we’d also get a free convention centre. How’s that for a great deal Rich?

                You see mate, even looking at it from a right-wing business perspective it’s still a lousy deal for the country!

                • Rich the other …
                  13 May 2013 at 2:12 pm

                  O’dear ,another dreamer.

                  (1) I don’t know what a licence is worth but $400 million ???? your dreaming.

                  (2) You are suggesting we flood Auckland with casinos , you lefty mates would disown you.

                  • DH …
                    13 May 2013 at 3:05 pm

                    Not very quick are you Rich. It pays to look before you leap, the licences that SkyCity are receiving in exchange for the centre have been independently valued at between $328 and $412 million. That’s their estimated market value buddy, try reading the reports on the deal before you mouth off.

                    Feel look a fool yet? You should…… dreamer

                    The lefties are smart enough to realise that another casino using the same licences would create no more gambling than giving SkyCity these extra licences. They wouldn’t like either option equally but they are a little better at applying the grey matter than you.

                    • Rich the other …
                      14 May 2013 at 12:06 pm

                      DaH, you must vote green , your only possible excuse.

                      The Corda Mentha report you quote is a report for Sky City and the Govt , no other operator.

                      The value to sky is vastly different than to any other operator, the reason being for Sky it’s enhances their current operating business and for that they are paying a premium.

                      No other operator would set up a new business which can only have 260? pokie machines and a few more tables costing $406 million , it simply wouldn’t be viable.

                      The licence values quoted apply to sky city based on what its worth to them and them only, hence a win win situation for both party’s.

                    • One Anonymous Knucklehead …
                      14 May 2013 at 12:17 pm

                      Sky City get profits. The National Party gets political donations. New Zealand loses, but only until the next election. If Sky City can’t make a profit without insider trading and bribes then they don’t deserve a licence.

                    • DH …
                      14 May 2013 at 5:14 pm

                      “The value to sky is vastly different than to any other operator, the reason being for Sky it’s enhances their current operating business and for that they are paying a premium.”

                      You have a reading comprehension problem, which isn’t unusual for your kind. The report made it clear that the values were lower due to SkyCity’s existing operation, in that the new pokies & gaming tables wouldn’t get the same ulitisation as existing machines. To translate that it means they’re worth more to another party who would get the full use out of them.

                      “No other operator would set up a new business which can only have 260? pokie machines and a few more tables costing $406 million , it simply wouldn’t be viable.”

                      Only a fool would suggest that other casino operators wouldn’t be interested in buying gaming licences that a large accounting firm claimed would generate income of over $40million per year.

                      “The licence values quoted apply to sky city based on what its worth to them and them only, hence a win win situation for both party’s.”

                      Stop making stuff up, bullshit & bluster doesn’t work here.

      • freedom 6.1.3
        13 May 2013 at 11:25 am

        How is it a pay day for NZ, or were you just talking about the owners again?

        • Rich the other 6.1.3.1
          13 May 2013 at 11:58 am

          freedom , ( only prosperity will give you that)

          Kelt has given a pretty good idea on that .
          But just going over the obvious,
          Employment , taxes paid , gst on gambling ,profits for share holders which includes retirement funds eg kiwi saver, growth for AK economy and plenty of rub off for the rest of the community, tourists do visit and spend at other businesses.

          That’s not bad for starters is it, try to be a little more positive , it won’t hurt.

          • karol 6.1.3.1.1
            13 May 2013 at 12:02 pm

            Jam tomorrow.

            • DH 6.1.3.1.1.1
              13 May 2013 at 12:43 pm

              You might find this interesting Karol, it’s an independent valuation of the gaming licences & concessions the Govt are giving SkyCity.

              http://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/document/pdf/201320/KordaMentha.pdf

              It refers to another report that estimates 70% of convention goers will visit the casino.

              The report also excludes future benefits derived from the monopoly rights such as more hotels etc, it’s basing valuation figures on existing capacity. It’s pretty clear that SkyCity are getting far more from this deal than they’re putting in.

              The most puzzling thing about this is that we don’t owe SkyCity anything. They exist solely at our favour, they enjoy monopoly casino rights that were granted by statute. There’s a queue of casino operators who’d pay a fortune for a licence to operate here so we have absolutely no reason or even the slightest obligation to do SkyCity any favours. They owe us and yet this Govt have been bending over backwards to pander to them. Have to wonder why…..

      • Murray Olsen 6.1.4
        13 May 2013 at 4:56 pm

        They didn’t come up with the money. We did, via our ever generous prumstah. Sky City came up with a compliant prumstah.
        At the moment, we get about 2.5 million tourists a year from all countries. Key expects twice this from China alone? Where will they stay? Who will run the extra flights? He also expected Gilmore to be a good MP.
        Rich Chinese do not gamble at poker machines. Poor Kiwis with gambling problems or drug dealers with money to launder do.
        Why would all these Chinese business people come to Auckland for a convention? It won’t be to listen to your bullshit, that’s for sure.

        We have the worst type of corruption in the world. We can’t pay $20 to get off a traffic ticket, but a big company can pay a few million (refunded with interest by the present regime) to get industrial law changed. Just like our birthright of clean water, lush forests, and kaimoana, it is available and for sale to the rich.

  7. Kelt 7
    13 May 2013 at 10:43 am

    ACC is one of the largest shareholders in Skycity (approx 4% when I last looked). Many of the Kiwisaver funds are also significant shareholders
    The Governement has recently allowed visa concessions to Asian businessmen
    Sky city have been given permission by the Gambling Commission for overseas bank accounts.
    Sky City have been given permission from the Gambling commission for a revamped upper floor with private gaming rooms
    WHY
    The pokies were a smoke screen which sucked in every egotistical politicain and lazy journalist.
    Sky want to increase their revenue from international clients. (Its currentl;y around 3%. The Ozzy casinos get around 17%) The tables were what they were after. Its for their new private gaming rooms aimed specifically at the asian market

    And whats wrong with that. Im sick of the liars from the problem gambling foundation and green party’s, feathering their own nests by spouting of fraudulent tales of woe when the real story never got aired.

    Is it fair that Sky City targets high rolling asian punters. Yes or No

    • ghostrider888 7.1
      13 May 2013 at 11:57 am

      Yes, if costs to New Zealand society are ameliorated.

    • fender 7.2
      13 May 2013 at 11:57 am

      So a new sign outside will read: Asians Only. Yes or No?

    • prism 7.3
      13 May 2013 at 12:14 pm

      Oh Kelt I hope you are rolling in it, whatever is important to you and nice, but I fear that outside of that you have a tainted smell which will grow to a stench, and even niceness can go bad given time..

    • Draco T Bastard 7.4
      13 May 2013 at 8:31 pm

      The only people lying about this so far have been National but that’s normal for them.

  8. prism 8
    13 May 2013 at 12:10 pm

    Sky City is introducing more measures to identify problem gamblers and stop them. Is that to identify which gamblers to facilitate and massage, and stop them leaving too early, ie before they have spent the week’s electricity and medicine money?

    We didn’t have pokies here before Roger Douglas and his band of hoons and smartarses got in and said that business was generic, so gambling to excess and drinking to excess is good business. Then they learned how it can be subtly encouraged by psychological measures and general PR advertising, while uttering weasel words about ‘individual’ control and assisting the ‘very few’ unhinged people who become addicted and sick and waste and damage their own lives and prosperity and spoil the lives of their connections.

  9. Martin Legge 9
    13 May 2013 at 12:13 pm

    Steve Kilgallon’s article about a significant file being lost by internal affairs does give an impression of sloppiness but let say it is far more contrived than that. The lost file contained conclusive documents and testimony linking a pokie trust, The Trusts Community Foundation (TTCF) of West Auckland to serious illegal activity involving the approval of millions of dollars of grants from 3 South Auckland Bars back to the interests of Otago Rugby and Racing. Why? – because those interests had an ownership/interest in the bars and wanted all the proceeds for themselves while South Auckland communities were deliberately starved of those funds.

    At the time Senior DIA Mgt must have become aware the file was lost, rather than look for the file or simply go back to the persons who provided the information, they instead granted TTCF a “clean bill of health” and embarked on a campaign of covering up the loss and fudging the facts from Steve Kilgallon, the public, the OAG and even their own Minister (Chris Tremain), all the time knowing there will never be any repercussions or accountabilty for corporate pokie trusts from this Government.

    • ghostrider888 9.1
      13 May 2013 at 12:20 pm

      there was a series ran in The Herald (or Dominion Post) on the corruption revealed by a former “Trusts” overseer; it was the messenger they came gunning for.

  10. Matt damon 10
    13 May 2013 at 12:32 pm

    Matt Damon !

  11. The Al1en 11
    13 May 2013 at 5:30 pm

    “Greens co-leader Metiria Turei said the deal was “disastrous” but she had not yet sought legal advice on the implications of rejecting the deal.

    She said it could become a bottom line in future coalition discussions between the Greens and Labour and the Greens would want the legislation repealed.

    “Whether we can negotiation that with them in the future – we will see. The Green Party does not accept being held to ransom like this and will repeal this legislation if we get into Government,” she said.”

    Good on you, love.

    “Shearer said governments should be able to make changes to legislation but he would not make a commitment to stopping the deal, saying he would look at the fine print.”

    Friction burns on the palm of his right hand says what?

  12. Martin Legge 12
    13 May 2013 at 7:12 pm

    The reason Labour is not all over the rorts within corporate pokie trusts but in particular The Trusts Community Foundation Ltd, is because West Auckland is David Cunliffe’s territory. He has saved their skins in the past and no doubt he’ll do it again. He is happy to come out against Sky City Casino because TTCF and its largest clients, the Portage and Waitakere Licensing Trusts, will have made it clear that more pokies at the casino will the gambling business out west.

    Interesting to hear on the Duncan Garner radio show how Sky City CEO, Nigel Morrison, produced stats that point to the fact that largest numbers of problem gamblers are caused by the bars and clubs scattered throughout our community and not casinos.

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    The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours ago

  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
    Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    13 hours 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
    19 hours ago

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    Skeptical Science
    21 hours ago

  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    22 hours ago

  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    23 hours 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day ago

  • Melissa Lee and the media: ending the quest
    Chris Trotter writes –  MELISSA LEE should be deprived of her ministerial warrant. Her handling – or non-handling – of the crisis engulfing the New Zealand news media has been woeful. The fate of New Zealand’s two linear television networks, a question which the Minister of Broadcasting, Communications ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • The Hoon around the week to April 19
    TL;DR: The podcast above features co-hosts and , along with regular guests Robert Patman on Gaza and AUKUS II, and on climate change.The six things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • The ‘Humpty Dumpty’ end result of dismantling our environmental protections
    Policymakers rarely wish to make plain or visible their desire to dismantle environmental policy, least of all to the young. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: Here’s the top five news items of note in climate news for Aotearoa-NZ this week, and a discussion above between Bernard Hickey and The Kākā’s climate correspondent ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Nicola's Salad Days.
    I like to keep an eye on what’s happening in places like the UK, the US, and over the ditch with our good mates the Aussies. Let’s call them AUKUS, for want of a better collective term. More on that in a bit.It used to be, not long ago, that ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    1 day ago

  • Study sees climate change baking in 19% lower global income by 2050
    TL;DR: The global economy will be one fifth smaller than it would have otherwise been in 2050 as a result of climate damage, according to a new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) and published in the journal Nature. (See more detail and analysis below, and ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Weekly Roundup 19-April-2024
    It’s Friday again. Here’s some of the things that caught our attention this week. This Week on Greater Auckland On Tuesday Matt covered at the government looking into a long tunnel for Wellington. On Wednesday we ran a post from Oscar Simms on some lessons from Texas. AT’s ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    1 day ago

  • Jack Vowles: Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    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’.  The data is from February this ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago

  • Clearing up confusion (or trying to)
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters is understood to be planning a major speech within the next fortnight to clear up the confusion over whether or not New Zealand might join the AUKUS submarine project. So far, there have been conflicting signals from the Government. RNZ reported the Prime Minister yesterday in ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago

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

  • How to Factory Reset iPhone without Computer: A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring your Device
    Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs necessitate wiping your iPhone clean and starting anew. Whether you’re facing persistent software glitches, preparing to sell your device, or simply wanting a fresh start, knowing how to factory reset iPhone without a computer is a valuable skill. While using a computer with ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How to Call Someone on a Computer: A Guide to Voice and Video Communication in the Digital Age
    Gone are the days when communication was limited to landline phones and physical proximity. Today, computers have become powerful tools for connecting with people across the globe through voice and video calls. But with a plethora of applications and methods available, how to call someone on a computer might seem ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #16 2024
    Open access notables Glacial isostatic adjustment reduces past and future Arctic subsea permafrost, Creel et al., Nature Communications: Sea-level rise submerges terrestrial permafrost in the Arctic, turning it into subsea permafrost. Subsea permafrost underlies ~ 1.8 million km2 of Arctic continental shelf, with thicknesses in places exceeding 700 m. Sea-level variations over glacial-interglacial cycles control ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Where on a Computer is the Operating System Generally Stored? Delving into the Digital Home of your ...
    The operating system (OS) is the heart and soul of a computer, orchestrating every action and interaction between hardware and software. But have you ever wondered where on a computer is the operating system generally stored? The answer lies in the intricate dance between hardware and software components, particularly within ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Many Watts Does a Laptop Use? Understanding Power Consumption and Efficiency
    Laptops have become essential tools for work, entertainment, and communication, offering portability and functionality. However, with rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, understanding a laptop’s power consumption is more important than ever. So, how many watts does a laptop use? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward. It depends on several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How to Screen Record on a Dell Laptop A Guide to Capturing Your Screen with Ease
    Screen recording has become an essential tool for various purposes, such as creating tutorials, capturing gameplay footage, recording online meetings, or sharing information with others. Fortunately, Dell laptops offer several built-in and external options for screen recording, catering to different needs and preferences. This guide will explore various methods on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Laptop Screen? Navigating Repair Options and Costs
    A cracked or damaged laptop screen can be a frustrating experience, impacting productivity and enjoyment. Fortunately, laptop screen repair is a common service offered by various repair shops and technicians. However, the cost of fixing a laptop screen can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article delves into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last? Demystifying Lifespan and Maximizing Longevity
    Gaming laptops represent a significant investment for passionate gamers, offering portability and powerful performance for immersive gaming experiences. However, a common concern among potential buyers is their lifespan. Unlike desktop PCs, which allow for easier component upgrades, gaming laptops have inherent limitations due to their compact and integrated design. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Climate Change: Turning the tide
    The annual inventory report of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions has been released, showing that gross emissions have dropped for the third year in a row, to 78.4 million tons: All-told gross emissions have decreased by over 6 million tons since the Zero Carbon Act was passed in 2019. ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago

  • How to Unlock Your Computer A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Access
    Experiencing a locked computer can be frustrating, especially when you need access to your files and applications urgently. The methods to unlock your computer will vary depending on the specific situation and the type of lock you encounter. This guide will explore various scenarios and provide step-by-step instructions on how ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Faxing from Your Computer A Modern Guide to Sending Documents Digitally
    While the world has largely transitioned to digital communication, faxing still holds relevance in certain industries and situations. Fortunately, gone are the days of bulky fax machines and dedicated phone lines. Today, you can easily send and receive faxes directly from your computer, offering a convenient and efficient way to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Protecting Your Home Computer A Guide to Cyber Awareness
    In our increasingly digital world, home computers have become essential tools for work, communication, entertainment, and more. However, this increased reliance on technology also exposes us to various cyber threats. Understanding these threats and taking proactive steps to protect your home computer is crucial for safeguarding your personal information, finances, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Server-Based Computing Powering the Modern Digital Landscape
    In the ever-evolving world of technology, server-based computing has emerged as a cornerstone of modern digital infrastructure. This article delves into the concept of server-based computing, exploring its various forms, benefits, challenges, and its impact on the way we work and interact with technology. Understanding Server-Based Computing: At its core, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Vroom vroom go the big red trucks
    The absolute brass neck of this guy.We want more medical doctors, not more spin doctors, Luxon was saying a couple of weeks ago, and now we’re told the guy has seven salaried adults on TikTok duty. Sorry, doing social media. The absolute brass neck of it. The irony that the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago

  • Jones finds $410,000 to help the government muscle in on a spat project
    Buzz from the Beehive Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones relishes spatting and eagerly takes issue with environmentalists who criticise his enthusiasm for resource development. He relishes helping the fishing industry too. And so today, while the media are making much of the latest culling in the public service to ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago

  • Again, hate crimes are not necessarily terrorism.
    Having written, taught and worked for the US government on issues involving unconventional warfare and terrorism for 30-odd years, two things irritate me the most when the subject is discussed in public. The first is the Johnny-come-lately academics-turned-media commentators who … Continue reading → ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    2 days ago

  • Despair – construction consenting edition
    Eric Crampton writes – Kainga Ora is the government’s house building agency. It’s been building a lot of social housing. Kainga Ora has its own (but independent) consenting authority, Consentium. It’s a neat idea. Rather than have to deal with building consents across each different territorial authority, Kainga Ora ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Coalition promises – will the Govt keep the commitment to keep Kiwis equal before the law?
    Muriel Newman writes – The Coalition Government says it is moving with speed to deliver campaign promises and reverse the damage done by Labour. One of their key commitments is to “defend the principle that New Zealanders are equal before the law.” To achieve this, they have pledged they “will not advance ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • An impermanent public service is a guarantee of very little else but failure
    Chris Trotter writes –  The absence of anything resembling a fightback from the public servants currently losing their jobs is interesting. State-sector workers’ collective fatalism in the face of Coalition cutbacks indicates a surprisingly broad acceptance of impermanence in the workplace. Fifty years ago, lay-offs in the thousands ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • What happens after the war – Mariupol
    Mariupol, on the Azov Sea coast, was one of the first cities to suffer almost complete destruction after the start of the Ukraine War started in late February 2022. We remember the scenes of absolute destruction of the houses and city structures. The deaths of innocent civilians – many of ...
    Open ParachuteBy Ken
    2 days ago

  • Babies and benefits – no good news
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – Ten years ago, I wrote the following in a Listener column: Every year around one in five new-born babies will be reliant on their caregivers benefit by Christmas. This pattern has persisted from at least 1993. For Maori the number jumps to over one in three.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Should the RBNZ be looking through climate inflation?
    Climate change is expected to generate more and more extreme events, delivering a sort of structural shock to inflation that central banks will have to react to as if they were short-term cyclical issues. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours, as of 9:16 am on Thursday, April 18 are:Housing: Tauranga residents living in boats, vans RNZ Checkpoint Louise TernouthHousing: Waikato councillor says wastewater plant issues could hold up Sleepyhead building a massive company town Waikato Times Stephen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell on the public sector carnage, and misogyny as terrorism
    It’s a simple deal. We pay taxes in order to finance the social services we want and need. The carnage now occurring across the public sector though, is breaking that contract. Over 3,000 jobs have been lost so far. Many are in crucial areas like Education where the impact of ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    2 days ago

  • Meeting the Master Baiters
    Hi,A friend had their 40th over the weekend and decided to theme it after Curb Your Enthusiasm fashion icon Susie Greene. Captured in my tiny kitchen before I left the house, I ending up evoking a mix of old lesbian and Hillary Clinton — both unintentional.Me vs Hillary ClintonIf you’re ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago

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

  • Backbone, revisited
    The schools are on holiday and the sun is shining in the seaside village and all day long I have been seeing bunches of bikes; Mums, Dads, teens and toddlers chattering, laughing, happy, having a bloody great time together. Cheers, AT, for the bits of lane you’ve added lately around the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Ministers are not above the law
    Today in our National-led authoritarian nightmare: Shane Jones thinks Ministers should be above the law: New Zealand First MP Shane Jones is accusing the Waitangi Tribunal of over-stepping its mandate by subpoenaing a minister for its urgent hearing on the Oranga Tamariki claim. The tribunal is looking into the ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • What’s the outfit you can hear going down the gurgler? Probably it’s David Parker’s Oceans Sec...
    Buzz from the Beehive Point  of Order first heard of the Oceans Secretariat in June 2021, when David Parker (remember him?) announced a multi-agency approach to protecting New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and fisheries. Parker (holding the Environment, and Oceans and Fisheries portfolios) broke the news at the annual Forest & ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    9 hours ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government focused on getting people into work
    Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
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    5 days ago

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