So NZ Labour wanted the Headlines.

Written By: - Date published: 3:29 pm, August 1st, 2017 - 50 comments
Categories: election 2017, elections, greens, jacinda ardern, labour, liberalism, Metiria Turei, Politics - Tags: , , ,

I guess the next few days or more will be filled with rampant speculation on what NZ Labour will do next, and that speculation will come alongside some gushing praise for Jacinda Ardern ,as well as whatever amount of condemnation.

But whatever happens, NZ Labour has a policy platform that many have found underwhelming. And unless I’m missing something, the current NZ Labour caucus constructed that platform, mounted that platform, and will have no option but to remain standing on that platform. Now sure, Ardern offers up a more appealing shiny wrapper for NZ Labour’s sales pitch. And we all know that a salesperson can sometimes make a decisive impact on potential buyers.

And if the question was to be between two political brands of the same product (ie – National’s liberalism or NZ Labour’s liberalism), then I’d say Ardern’s potential impact on voters might be fruitful. But NZ no longer has to choose between two competing brands of the same product – the Green Party have somewhat broken that constrictive mould.

NZ Labour will have known that Metiria’s “calling out” of NZs social security system has resonated. And they will know their winter fuel allowance, welcome though it was, just pales away to nothing next to the Green Party’s commitment to raise benefit levels, extend eligibility of WFF to the unemployed and rid WINZ of a punative culture that particularly, though by means way solely, demonises women on the DPB and even presumes to determine their relationships.

So, given what everybody knows, can we expect NZ Labour to suddenly expand or re-cast their already announced policies to encompass aspects of Green Party policy where those policies would have been a natural fit for any pre-’84 Labour Party? Well, no. Of course not. They have to rein things in.

Much more likely then, while still adhering to the letter of the MoU they have with the Green Party, they will be more inclined to throw wee dry sticks into the likes of the flames of moral condemnation that some tried to fan around Meriria’s truthfulness of what it means to be on the DPB.  Ardern already kind of did that  by insisting in an interview about Metiria’s revelations, that an MP can’t condone breaking the law, given that an MP is charged with forming the law. The fact that Metiria hasn’t condoned breaking the law and has merely said she understands why people break the law with regards WINZ while condemning the system that forces them into untenable positions was, it seems, by the by.

Then there was the nonsense Willie Jackson threw up about how the Green Party should endorse NZ Labour candidates in the Maori seats. Andrew Little was clear that wasn’t going to happen –

Jackson was rebuffed by Labour leader Andrew Little soon after, who said the two parties had already agreed not to enter deals on seats and the focus was on ensuring the campaign was respectful and they did not “trip each other up”.

– but he’s gone.

In short, I expect to see a fair bit of “Oops! Very sorry, didn’t mean to trip you there.” stuff to be coming from NZ Labour now. (Christ knows, their caucus has enough of a track record on that front towards their own, never mind towards politicians of other parties.) NZ Labour has nowhere left to go. It has hemmed itself in. And I don’t think it’s unreasonable to suggest that it’s now fighting for its future political survival. So if the Green Party doesn’t step up anew and very soon on another policy front, such as education or whatever other bigger policy they haven’t announced yet, then the ‘re-set’ that I’m picking to be under way within NZ Labour is likely to result in a damaging low level ‘beat up’ on the Greens from a smiling, caring NZ Labour between now and the election.

And that could yield results if the Greens present themselves as a sitting target – because the marginalised and others could quite easily disengage if the political environment becomes viewed as hostile or irrelevant again. And that could leave what remains of a potential Green/Labour voting bloc to  drift from a bruised Green Party that’s become snagged in the polls towards, and however however reluctantly, the somewhat dull and grey prospects of NZ Labour’s policy platform. In other words, NZ Labour will have successfully pulled off what it needs to pull off for its own political survival, and repaired the constrictive ‘liberal us or liberal them’ mould of NZ politics.

So the way I see it, the Greens need to ‘tool up’ and step up to prevent our electoral option being taken back to a choice between two brands of the same product yet again.

They need to keep front stepping and calling things for what they are. They need to be  colourful. They need to be bold. And they need to be tireless. They need to keep pushing forwards in ways that appeal to those who have had enough; those who want something more than  a different flavoured sauce on some liberal fayre; those who have become marginalised; those who have become disengaged; those who demand hope.

 

 

50 comments on “So NZ Labour wanted the Headlines. ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. McFlock 1
    1 August 2017 at 3:46 pm

    Labour policy is solid, but not overly flashy.
    Little as leader was solid, but not overly flashy.
    Wasn’t really getting them anywhere, what with the greens being showy and having some flashy policy.

    I don’t think we’ll see a policy change with Ardern, but she will have higher visibility as the tories try to collapse the Labour vote. Not a bad thing.

    However: Kelvin Davis as deputy? I have the impression he’s a bit of a dick, but can’t remember why. I know he got TTT off hone, but is he part of the pro-charter school crowd too? I also seem to recall him mouthing off once or twice in a dickish way.

    His promotion might be more of a signal than Ardern’s.

    • Draco T Bastard 1.1
      1 August 2017 at 4:11 pm

      I know he got TTT off hone, but is he part of the pro-charter school crowd too?

      IIRC, he’s an ‘investor’ in one of them. Perhaps one of the ones that failed badly but ended up with a couple of hectares of prime land paid for by the government.

      I also seem to recall him mouthing off once or twice in a dickish way.

      I believe there’s been a few such instances.

    • Karen 1.2
      2 August 2017 at 6:33 am

      Kelvin Davis is not “a bit of a dick.”

      He was instrumental in Serco losing their contract to run Mt Eden.
      Here’s John Palethorpe:
      🤔 John Palethorpe‏ @jjpalethorpe 12h12 hours ago
      “Two years ago today-ish @NgatiBird came to the Serco protest I organised. He was helpful, polite, kind and furious. Good to see him kick on.”

      He exposed the treatment of prisoners in Manus Island and other detention centres.

      He is very strong on prison reform and the need to stop sending people with addiction and mental health issues to prison – he said this is a health issue and we need to stop punishing people for being ill.

      A friend of mine who does a lot of voluntary work in the domestic violence/ woman’s refuge area said he has worked really hard in this area and had always been incredibly supportive of their work. She is a left-wing feminist and thinks Kelvin is great.

      There are two charter schools that he is supportive of but they are community led Māori run schools that will easily fit into the Labour Party’s special character model as they both use registered teachers and are fulfilling a particular need.

      • McFlock 1.2.1
        2 August 2017 at 1:00 pm

        True, I recall the Manus Island thing now. That was good work.

        Hmmm. I can’t shake the feeling that he took a line that really pissed me off, though. Probably the charter school thing.

        Oh well, if it was a one-off, no worries. If not, I’ll have a better source of criticism than “something I can’t put my finger on”. 🙂

        • weka 1.2.1.1
          2 August 2017 at 1:11 pm

          I think he’s also a bit of a dick as well as doing the good things Karen points out. Mostly it’s the macho stuff around TTT. My estimation of him went up yesterday when he put the Mp on notice up their game but basically said yeah, we’ll work with you if it comes to that. So not an dogmatic dick.

  2. One Anonymous Bloke 2
    1 August 2017 at 3:51 pm

    The other thing the Greens have to do is concentrate on their own policies and kaupapa and resist the temptation to react to any centre left provocation.

    I think their supporters would be wise to do the same.

    • Bill 2.1
      1 August 2017 at 4:01 pm

      I agree.

      But this nonsense from NZ Labour has kind of side swiped a whole lot of stuff, including what the Greens were building. I guess my post is suggesting they need to kick start that whole thing again. And I’m also suggesting that NZ Labour will not be exactly well disposed towards them given the general mess and parlous state they’re in.

      • One Anonymous Bloke 2.1.1
        1 August 2017 at 4:22 pm

        First the Greens, and now Labour, have done something that you’re just not supposed to do.

        I’m yet to be convinced that’s a bad thing.

        Political pundits posit all sorts of rational explanations for why it’s a bad thing, and Neurobiology tells us that “rational” decision making is a myth.

        Cinny says talkback is full of people saying they’re voting Labour today. Go figure.

        • marty mars 2.1.1.1
          1 August 2017 at 4:49 pm

          Yep I’m convinced it is all good. Labour and the Greens are not in competition – target those dim gnats with that damp facecloth bill – call me bill –
          english – he is going down and will look idiotic when against the Greens and Labour.

          • One Anonymous Bloke 2.1.1.1.1
            1 August 2017 at 4:51 pm

            I’m completely unconvinced: too wary of my own confirmation bias. Not that I’m ruling it out 😀

          • Bill 2.1.1.1.2
            1 August 2017 at 5:34 pm

            Can’t quite follow that comment marty. I mean, I get that you’re having a go at me…for something I haven’t written (Greens and NZ Labour in competition).

            Go back to the post.

            The letter of the MoU will be honoured. I’m saying the spirit of the MoU’s going to get tossed out by NZ Labour. It’s a party that’s basically flailing about trying to avoid its own political death and inflicting massive wounds on itself (and potentially on others) in the process.

            It’s not the first Labour Party in the English speaking world to be experiencing these death throes. Scottish Labour ‘went’ (22% and third place in the 2016 election) – and for the same reasons that NZ Labour is going.

            Ironically given they’re a Blairite/liberal party, Scottish Labour got a bit of a Lazarus effect from Corbyn becoming leader of UK Labour.

            NZ Labour doesn’t have any such path to possible resurrection that I can see.

            • marty mars 2.1.1.1.2.1
              1 August 2017 at 5:39 pm

              I’m not talking about you – but the other bill running the bloody country.

              Sorry if it was ambiguous – edit – reading it back it is easy to see that I stuffed up my sentences – sorry again.

              I am feeling optimistic. I don’t think The Greens and Labour will affect each others vote. The Gnats and english will look stupid, slow and dottery compared to the Greens and Labour.

              • Bill …
                1 August 2017 at 5:47 pm

                Ah, Here was me thinking that “attacking someone with a damp facecloth” was just some odd expression I’d never come across. –cough

              • weka …
                1 August 2017 at 6:01 pm

                “I don’t think The Greens and Labour will affect each others vote”

                Except in a good way. Labour looking competent and strong is necessary for the Greens to get into govt. More of a worry for me is NZF. It’s up to Labour to go after that vote, hoping that’s the conclusion they reach in the next few days.

        • savenz 2.1.1.2
          1 August 2017 at 7:55 pm

          We can only hope that the disappointed Labour supporters vote Green and Jarcinda pushes more people to vote Labour who would otherwise not voted or voted for National. So it ends up more combined voters for that block.

    • David Mac 2.2
      1 August 2017 at 4:06 pm

      I agree, there is plenty of ripe electorate for both the Greens and Labour to harvest. There are 100,000’s of people staring at the prospect of never owning their own homes. Leave the far left aspect for the Greens and talk with those that have an alarm clock ringing at 6am, 6 days a week. Too many of them are struggling to meet the rent bill, a house deposit an impossible dream.

      I think Jacinda indicated in her press conference that she has potential inter party clashes handled. “The Greens have their policies, I’m here to talk about Labour.” Simple and effective.

  3. Peroxide Blonde 3
    1 August 2017 at 3:59 pm

    England has Brexit.
    USA has Russia Gate.
    NZ has Grant Robertson organising a leadership change that excludes the membership.

    • The Lone Haranguer 3.1
      1 August 2017 at 9:09 pm

      But history will show that, despite Grant Robertson organising a leadership challenge (and more in the future Im picking), that hes never organised one that puts him into place “Numero Uno”

      So hes really a bit of a faliure in my view

  4. billmurray 4
    1 August 2017 at 4:08 pm

    Not sure I am on right comment page but congratulations to ‘the Standard’ for giving excellent coverage of the dramatic change of leadership in Labour, well done.

  5. Louis 5
    1 August 2017 at 4:09 pm

    Was it only about headlines or did Labour do a knee jerk becasue they didn’t want a repeat media hatefest like what happened to Cunliffe in 2014? No wonder the media thinks it has full dictatorial powers, Labour once again shows it has no spine or balls.

    [lprent: You are acting like a troll. Automoderation until you prove you are a human capable of contributing to the debate. In the meantime I have removed all of your suspect comments that no-one replied to. ]

    • David Mac 5.1
      1 August 2017 at 4:30 pm

      Changing engines 2 hours before the race starts is not spineless, it’s a brave calculated risk. It’s an ‘All in’ call that will illuminate the run-up to the election. People that don’t care about polls will be curious to hear how Jacinda travels. On Andrew’s part, Jacinda’s and the party, I think it’s far from gutless, took courage. I hope their bravery is rewarded with good fortune.

      • Louis 5.1.1
        1 August 2017 at 4:43 pm

        Yeah sure, you can believe that if you want. Voters dont usually reward leadership changes like this, particularly this close to an election as its seen as being weak and divisive. Hope those within Labour are happy with themselves, we will find out soon enough if this was worth it or not.

    • One Anonymous Bloke 5.2
      1 August 2017 at 4:32 pm

      I suspect Jacinda Ardern would deal with that opinion in much the same way as she dealt with Paddy and Corin.

    • Louis 5.3
      1 August 2017 at 4:48 pm

      Fine. I am not a troll just angry at Labour.

      [lprent: So express it in a pattern that doesn’t make me think that you are some kind of ‘concern’ troll. Jumping around posts leaving one and two liners isn’t expressing yourself about why you have issues with them, it is like listening to bored dog barking in a empty yard, ]

      • Louis 5.3.1
        1 August 2017 at 5:16 pm

        Im a devastated dog and quite frankly the way I’m feeling i shouldn’t be on here. Appreciate the tip.

  6. Korero Pono 6
    1 August 2017 at 4:31 pm

    Excellent analysis Bill, it will be an interesting eight weeks no doubt. I wonder if traditional ‘left’ leaning voters will swing to Labour out of fear of another 3 years of NACT? I actually can’t believe that Labour thought it a good thing to get rid of Little at this stage of the game instead of coming up with some actual policy that would draw people to them. Kind of like what the Greens did when they announced their welfare policy. The missing million may have started waking from their slumber, what they need is a rocket put under them and a reason to get themselves out to vote come voting day. Sadly Labour doesn’t seem to want those votes, instead they’ll probably serve up more of the same neoliberal BS they’ve been serving voters the last 30 odd years, and they seriously wonder why they’re polling so low. I would love Labour to give me a reason to vote for them so that we can change the Government but given I suspect more of the same from Labour, I instead pin my hopes on the Greens and hope like hell the next 8 weeks proves fruitful in waking up the disenfranchised, disenchanted missing millon. Greens at least seem to want to do something to reverse the horrendous levels of poverty, suicide and social decay that 30 years of neoliberalism has inflicted upon us.

    • JanM 6.1
      1 August 2017 at 4:53 pm

      As for the ‘missing million’, have you lately asked around your friends and acquaintances to see what they know about Labour policies? It’s very depressing – many, even people with whom you believe you can have at least a half-way intelligent conversation, haven’t a clue – at least that’s been my experience. I think, perhaps, that especially younger people don’t really do much research to find things out, but wait until it shines out at them from a screen – and it needs to appeal (as in visually). Maybe Jacinda will be that rocket 🙂

      • Peter 6.1.1
        1 August 2017 at 5:41 pm

        Bash landords seems to be the policy.

        Labour’s Healthy Homes Bill would require landlords to maintain the temperature in their rentals at an MBIE-specified level (said to be 18 degrees).
        How the hell can any landlord do that?

        • Jilly Bee 6.1.1.2
          1 August 2017 at 11:03 pm

          Peter, I would love to ‘bash’ my daughter and her partner’s landlord who steadfastly refused to either insulate or provide decent heating for the pretty basic house they were renting in West Auckland for top dollar despite my daughter giving birth prematurely to twin babies at the end of May. I insisted that they move out to better accommodation before the baby girls were discharged from the SCBU unit at Waitakere – which they have managed to do. Said landlord was only too happy to paint the exterior of the house, but wouldn’t budge on interior improvements.

      • Pat 6.1.2
        1 August 2017 at 11:36 pm

        am not sure about that…..it has been my experience that the young will be intrigued by something they hear either from friends or perhaps online or the box and the first thing they will do is search party websites online for information….that is where it falls down imo….most of the policy information is written in dull, and vague terms that requires substantial knowledge of “political” speak to correctly interpret….a language that many young don’t appear to speak or understand (and frankly thats a good thing, now if only politicians could “unlearn” the same)

    • weka 6.2
      1 August 2017 at 5:55 pm

      I agree about the policy, but now that the leadership has changed it shows that this was a great move, assuming Ardern can go the distance. Little was starting to look beaten and that’s part of what happened to Cunliffe last time. The MSM was merciless and too many people don’t want to vote for the one they see as a loser. Yes, the policy was a big part of that but policy alone won’t save a party. The GP policy on welfare isn’t new to them, they’ve had the best social security policy of any party for a long time. It was what they did with it that made the difference. And to pull that off they needed leaders and a party that could stand up to the media and the RW spin and lies.

      I will continue to encourage people to vote Green to get the most progressive govt we can. We still need Labour to do that. I’m of the theory that the election is the left’s for the taking but only if they appear competent. They were failing on that. Now they’ve got a chance to change that dynamic (again, this depends on Ardern being able to manage the role so it’s not without risk).

      Labour have enough policy that is compatible with the Greens, and I also hope the Greens do more of what they did with welfare. I don’t think it would be possible for Labour to rewrite and cost policy in the timeframe left, so the best Labour can do now is start front footing it on values. Ardern is talking strongly today about inequality and compassion. This is a good fit for the more progressive policies of the Greens.

      I agree with Bill’s previous analysis that there are key things to do re NZF voters, probably a strong stand on foreign land ownership would do it.

      So I’m less worried about Labour being more like the Greens than I am about NZF doing well. But I note that yesterday Little was actively talking about how if voters want to change the govt they need to vote Labour not NZF. I really hope that they follow up on that and start explaining how Labour will make the difference.

  7. Stuart Munro 7
    1 August 2017 at 4:48 pm

    Early days.

    In principle this looks a bit like following the despicable Key legacy down the charismatic leadership path.

    Jacinda has stepped in gracefully, and seems to be able to wrangle the press. We have to hope that cuts through as far as achieving real change.

    But not in the next few days.

    Early days.

  8. adam 8
    1 August 2017 at 4:49 pm

    ROFL, my god I’ve been in stitches since I heard this was happening.

    So this is how labour dies, as a handmaiden to liberalism. It really could not have happened to a better party. Started so well, gave us a ripper in the early 70’s, then stab us all in the back in the 80’s. You just killing yourself by the same process – Irony is a dish, best served with lots of giggles.

    Wouldn’t have voted labour, so nothing changes there. But Kelvin Davis as deputy leader, did they look in his closet?

    Well the media are going too…

    I think I said to Jenny Kirk, labour should not have a closet full of bad ideas, and things that could come back and bite them on their bum.

    I should have said, the should not promote people, who could, and probably will have the same effect.

  9. Peter 9
    1 August 2017 at 5:38 pm

    If a ship is heading for the rocks you can’t rescue it simply by changing the figurehead.

    • Korero Pono 9.1
      1 August 2017 at 6:11 pm

      +1

    • WILD KATIPO 9.2
      1 August 2017 at 9:34 pm

      Heh… but its not.

      What you are looking at is a Labour led govt after September. With the Greens and NZ First.

      The Greens ( thank goodness ) will temper the Labour neo liberal caucuses excesses in social policy , NZ First not only dislike extreme neo liberalism but Peters is a good friend of Kelvin Davis, – and Willie Jackson.

      I also don’t think pointing out how many times English texted Dickson was particularly conducive to forming a coalition with National… and a whole raft of other criticisms Peters has had with both John Key and Bill English.

      Get ready for a change of government , people, … and a broken cabal of has been right wing mouthpieces crying into their beers from Hosking to Hooten.

      • srylands 9.2.1
        2 August 2017 at 11:43 am

        I am unaware of any “right wing mouthpieces” in New Zealand.

        But more importantly, why would Hosking be crying about a change of Government? He will still have his silly media gig and his cars and houses and kids and his pleasant life.

        Remember it is the poor that are always worst affected by bad policy. the rich like Hosking will be able to adapt to a Labour/Green government and simply carry on. the poor have nowhere to hide.

  10. Keith 10
    1 August 2017 at 9:08 pm

    The policies Labour are promoting definitely don’t derserve all the scorn I read here.

    And probably more pronounced than the right the left are made up of social liberals and social conservatives and it is not automatic that the party for the workers has the same views as the middle class Greens.

    But nevertheless this gloomy kicking of Labour can join Hoskings latest rant and Trotter won’t be far behind, rest assured, headed by his twin Farrar.

    But be warmed by the knowledge without Labour you can enjoy National indefinitely!

  11. Hanswurst 11
    1 August 2017 at 11:07 pm

    In terms of what it predicts about Labour strategy, I think that this post is reading an enormous amount into very little. In terms of what it says about pthe parties’ policies and the Greens’ best strategy, though, it seems pretty sensible.

  12. lurgee 12
    2 August 2017 at 6:20 am

    My suspicion is that whoever Jacinda was expected to have to fight for the leadership in 8 weeks time is the person who is feeling happiest just now.

    • Carolyn_nth 12.1
      2 August 2017 at 6:44 am

      The pictures I have seen of Ardern’s press conference have GR smirking behind her.

  13. Sable 13
    2 August 2017 at 11:23 am

    I’m typically a Green voter but I have seen little from them lately that inspires me. There’s lots of talk but I have not seen much in the way of practical policy.

    I feel no more hope this election than any that have gone before and wonder if we need a real revision of the political system to make politicians in general more genuinely accountable as most other people are at work.

    • weka 13.1
      2 August 2017 at 11:36 am

      The Greens have one of the best policy platforms of any party in parliament, developed and costed. Not sure where you’re not seeing that, is it the MSM?

      I’m also curious what you would find inspiring.

      Here’s their policy page,

      https://www.greens.org.nz/policy

      • Sable 13.1.1
        2 August 2017 at 12:02 pm

        What would I find inspiring, that’s a big question Weka and I don’t have the time to answer it at length. What I would like to see is more of a focus on how to solve immediate environmental issues. In particular tackling issues surrounding factory farming which contributes greatly to global warming. Promoting green solutions such as solar panels. Even in right wing Australia you get a HUGE subsidy for installing them. How about a subsidy for electric cars too? Even the US offers this.

        Instead what you get here in general is mostly passive solutions like Carbon taxes which people hate and don’t directly target the culprits.

        Just a couple of examples but there are others too. I also feel working class Kiwi’s are being overlooked on a broad range of issues with parties clamouring to chase the middle class vote. Again I have specific concerns but I’d be here all day discussing this and I simply don’t have the time.

        Lastly why not more concern and actual policy regarding the TPPA? Its a nasty piece of work and the party that has I feel has done the most to combat it is NZFirst. It stands to uproot environmental initiatives for years to come and cost tax payers untold money.

        P.S. I have not watched TV in over six years and never ever read or watch the MSM.

        • weka 13.1.1.1
          2 August 2017 at 12:20 pm

          Where are you getting your political information from? I like following various Green MPs on twitter, it’s a good way to keep abreast of what they are actually doing. And reading their policy on the website along with the press releases. What you are wanting re the environment is all there, including a lot of work being done by Gareth Hughes on solar.

          I agree about the traditional working class vote, and it’s a tricky one, because apparently the Greens aren’t a good cultural fit and Labour have abandoned their roots. From what I can tell the Greens have the best policy but people want to vote for the right feel too.

          I haven’t seen what the Greens are doing lately in the TPPA, but when this was a big activist movement a few years ago they were against it (Labour want to amend it).

          • Carolyn_nth 13.1.1.1.1
            2 August 2017 at 12:26 pm

            Gosh. Gareth Hughes took a leading role in protesting against the TPPA, on the streets and in the House.

            I guess Winton just gets more (on and offline) media cut through.

  14. Shona 14
    2 August 2017 at 4:22 pm

    Good on you Bill. For telling some of it how it is.
    A media driven coup in the time frame allowed in the Labour leadership rules to appoint and anoint a right wing leader. all no doubt orchestrated by that turd Grant Robertson. And so the ruling class who have been pushing Ardern for 2 or 3 years now through the msm have their code compliant Labour leader. Yawn. No Change no progress just more of the same free market economics from the party who are all Rogernomes at heart.
    Fuck this country is a shit hole full of fuckwits!

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    16 hours ago

  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    19 hours ago

  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago

  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    22 hours ago

  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    24 hours ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    3 days 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
    3 days 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
    3 days 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    5 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
    6 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
    6 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
    6 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
    7 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    2 weeks ago

  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-02T22:13:13+00:00