Substance vs style

Written By: - Date published: 7:32 am, August 24th, 2011 - 75 comments
Categories: brand key, election 2011, labour, national, polls - Tags: , , ,

Has there ever been an election in this country that illustrated such a strong disconnect between substance and style?

Voters are clearly still enamored with their image of John Key. He’s a well managed media product. He does popular “feel good” stuff like hang out with royals, photo ops with Obama, and clowning around on Letterman. He avoids the hard issues and dodges anything resembling real media scrutiny (so no Morning Report, no fronting to interviews on asset sales and the like). He’s all about style – brand Key – and we the public are buying it (so far), no doubt about that. Key scores very highly as preferred PM and (I suspect to a huge extent) National piggybacks on his personal popularity to a commanding lead in the polls.

If that was all there was to it then the election would be almost a foregone conclusion. But it isn’t quite that simple, because there is still the matter of substance. And on matters of substance, policy, voters prefer what Labour has to offer. Here’s an account from 3 weeks back:

Voters prefer Labour policy but not party: Poll

Voters prefer Labour’s remedy for the economy over National’s, according to the latest Herald-DigiPoll survey – but they still don’t like the doctor. …

The polling began a week after Labour announced its new tax policy, including a capital gains tax and a new top tax rate of 39 cents on income above $150,000. When asked which policy should be used to pay off Government debt, 43 per cent chose the capital gains tax and 34 per cent nominated state asset sales. …

Opinion on the capital gains tax was evenly split in the poll – 38 per cent were in favour and an equal amount against.

The poll also revealed the extent of opposition to National’s state asset sales plan – 41 per cent of the party’s own supporters said they were against it, the same number as those in favour. Overall, 57 per cent of all respondents were against National’s state asset sales – including 35 per cent strongly against.

The message on asset sales vs capital gains tax was repeated in another morsel from the weekend’s 3 News / Reid poll released last night:

Kiwis prefer capital gains tax over asset sales – poll

Labour may be struggling in the polls, but its proposal to introduce a capital gains tax is proving to be a winner. A 3 News Reid Research poll has found it is considerably more popular than National’s plan for asset sales. Voters were asked which they prefer; partial asset sales or Labour’s capital gains tax.

• 53 percent of respondents said they preferred capital gains tax
• 31 percent said they preferred asset sales
• 16 percent said neither, or didn’t know

… even Mr Key’s own voters seem unconvinced by the push to sell minority stakes in state assets.

• Just 51.5 percent of National voters like the idea.
• 32 percent – one in three National voters – said they preferred Phil Goff’s policy
• 16 percent said neither, or didn’t know.

“New Zealanders know what happened last time an asset was sold; Contact Energy ended up in foreign ownership,” says Mr Goff.

There’s no doubt that asset sales is huge, but I don’t think that any single issue will swing the election for Labour (for example the first piece quoted above includes “However, four out of five voters said the tax package would make no difference to the way they voted”). But many issues combined? Better tax policy, better social policy, better environmental policy, and no asset sales? It all adds up.

So when push comes to shove in November, will Kiwis vote for the style that they like, or the substance that they want?

75 comments on “Substance vs style ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Craig Glen Eden 1
    24 August 2011 at 7:47 am

    “So when push comes to shove in November, will Kiwis vote for the style that they like, or the substance that they want?”

    Labour has got the policy now its all about the delivery. I hear that the likes of Anne tolley is going to be promoted if National get back in ————–Yup the stakes are high indeed.

    • marsman 1.1
      24 August 2011 at 7:57 am

      Tolley promoted? To what? Finance? Couldn’t do worse than Blinkered Bill English.

      • McFlock 1.1.1
        24 August 2011 at 1:44 pm

        I think that the contest might be closer than one might imagine just looking at English.

  2. marsman 2
    24 August 2011 at 8:02 am

    Obviously Key needs to be hammered at every opportunity, forced to confront the irresponsible actions of his inept Administration. If he doesn’t turn up for interviews he should be confronted by hordes of protesters at every photo-op he goes to.

    • Eddie 2.1
      24 August 2011 at 8:34 am

      he was in Kapiti yesterday.

    • mickysavage 2.2
      24 August 2011 at 8:37 am

      All of them are into photo op mode.  Exhibit A, on Q&A on Sunday neither Ryall nor Blinglish showing up to debate things with David Cunliffe.  Mind you considering the respective abilities of the three the decision was probably the correct one.

      • AAMC 2.2.1
        24 August 2011 at 10:00 am

        It’s up to the left to get it into the greater public consciousness that it is unacceptable in a democracy for a government not to front in the media.

        I don’t know how, but it needs to move from the blogosphere into the mainstream somehow.

        As long as the medai are complicit as cheerleaders, it’s a hard one. Labour / Green should take every media opportunity and should consistently, without framing it as spur grapes, draw attention to he lack of Nation from the debate.

  3. Lindsay 3
    24 August 2011 at 8:11 am

    Key has obviously made the decision to only turn up to positive news situations. He is leaving the negative items to the other Ministers. Thst is the reason he failed to turn up in ChCh to hear the concerns of the families wanting representation on the Royal Commission into the failure of buildings in ChCh during the earthquake. But when it came to announce that they would fund for legal representation, it was J Key who annoiunced it.

  4. Carol 4
    24 August 2011 at 8:13 am

    From where I’m sitting, the style looks pretty Shonkey, too. Put somehow the media continues to put a positive spin on it.

    • thejackal 4.1
      24 August 2011 at 8:24 am

      Totally agree. Anybody who thinks Key’s style is good needs their head read.

      • Jim Nald 4.1.1
        24 August 2011 at 9:47 am

        Oh come on, New Zealand, let’s face up to the fact that in 2008, the country collectively voted in a government of bullshit, for bullshit, and by bullshit. We should stop continuing to bullshit ourselves about the worth of this lot in power.

  5. Tangled up in blue 5
    24 August 2011 at 8:25 am

    The reality is that as much as people prefer Labours policy over Nationals; people don’t have confidence in Goff to effectively administer this policy.

  6. Eddie 6
    24 August 2011 at 8:33 am

    “However, four out of five voters said the tax package would make no difference to the way they voted”

    Isn’t that actually a very high number? I mean, only 30% of people change their votes between elections, so if 20% will change their votes on this tax package, that’s two thirds of the swing vote.

    • mickysavage 6.1
      24 August 2011 at 8:53 am

      Yep support could be swinging both ways but given the overall support for the CGT/against asset sales I would bet that more would move to the left.
       

  7. Hilary 7
    24 August 2011 at 8:44 am

    Can’t believe how National (and their supporters including the Blue Greens) can seriously think that selling our state assets to fund the unnecessary and unwanted Kapiti expressway, in a time of declining road use, is a good idea. At least some brave locals protested yesterday and destroyed the planned photo op for today’s Dom Post.. The PM went to the new Waikanae station to see how popular electrified rail is, and still didn’t get it.

  8. mickysavage 8
    24 August 2011 at 8:51 am

    Good post R0b but I disagree with you on one point, if the one out of five voters who said the tax package would make a difference to the way they voted changed their vote left the election is all over.

    • Tangled up in blue 8.1
      24 August 2011 at 9:04 am

      Assuming that most of those ‘one out of five voters’ aren’t already part of the ‘one out of three voters’ who support Labour.

    • Lanthanide 8.2
      24 August 2011 at 9:22 am

      ” if the one out of five voters who said the tax package would make a difference to the way they voted changed their vote left the election is all over.”

      People can just as easily be against a tax policy as for it. Particularly when you’re talking about the scary monster of CGT that many mistakenly believe will hit the family home and that it’s retrospective.

  9. Blue 9
    24 August 2011 at 9:00 am

    You have way more faith in Kiwi voters than I do, Rob. Four out of five said they don’t really care what the policies are. Smile and wave will do just fine for them.

    I think it’s obvious from the opinion polls so far that Kiwis aren’t really that opposed to asset sales. They may not like them, but it isn’t a strong enough dislike to make them change their vote.

  10. RobM 10
    24 August 2011 at 9:08 am

    The Politics headlines on the Herald’s home page at 9am:

    “MP plans law to regulate sunbeds”

    “Key turns on the charm for Kapiti”

    “Government to crack down on money laundering”

    “Maori Party man throws spanner in rivals’ works”

    “Parents’ pay targeted in proposed law change”

    Substantial bit of cheerleading for the coalition of the swilling.

  11. tc 11
    24 August 2011 at 9:11 am

    We don’t have a great history in making savvy electoral decisions so can anyone seeing this one being any different….especially if sideshow simles n waves his way around NZild with the web ellis trophy if Henry’s men don’t choke again.

  12. Blue 12
    24 August 2011 at 10:21 am

    Stubstance and style are not mutually exclusive. I always thought David Lange had both (the last Labour Leader I voted for). Some would argue Goff has some substance and less style, whereas others agrue Key may have lots of style and less substance. Some combination of both would, I imagine, be unbeatable. Rather than Goff complaining that his message fails to resonate because Key has more style he could try exhibiting characteristics than middle New Zealand recognise and identify with. You could take the moral high ground and refuse on principle, of course, but the point that seems to be lost on Labour is that to change somehing you don’t like, you have to win, to win you have to be popular, to be popular, people have to like you and identify with you as a person. Like it or not, thats the way it is, so sticking your head in the sand and refusing to recognise this is a recipe for an electoral disaster. Trouble is there are few ‘likeable’ people in Labour ATM. Most seem to be rather venal in their speech and if Clare Curran is an example, don’t particularly value the voters ability to make their own minds up. The seige mentality continues.

    • aerobubble 12.1
      24 August 2011 at 2:36 pm

      Key lied his way into power, Tax cuts were not affordable or balanced, he went back on promises
      not to mess with kiwisaver, put GST up, etc. Are you suggesting Labour should openly put
      principles out they also are not going to keep? Or are you just a hopeless loser suggesting you like
      liars who harm your interests if they do it with style.

  13. ron 13
    24 August 2011 at 11:31 am

    I think a good question for voters is “Would you leave your daughter alone with this guy?”

    • Jim Nald 13.1
      24 August 2011 at 11:42 am

      Hmm, .. some potentially interesting answers there.
      On one account, ‘your’ gene pool should be safe – he claims to shoot blanks.

    • Blue 13.2
      24 August 2011 at 11:43 am

      @ron – “Would you leave your daughter alone with this guy?”, I’m not sure what you mean, are you suggesting he’s sifty like Shane Jones and obsessed with pornography (and the fact taht he thinks the taxpayer should foot the bill for it), then no I wouldn’t. Perhaps leaving her alone with convicted violent offender and serial goob Trevor Mallard, no I wouldn’t, how about former labour MP and the only politician in the history of this country to have been convicted of corruption (that is an acheivement!) – the self entitled elitist Philip Field, then no, I wouldn’t. With you? Most definitely wouldn’t. It really is stupid, low class to try to smear at that kind of base animalistic level. You truly are a moron, ron, or a Labour voter (but once again i have become repetitive). Would you like it if I asked the same question of you and Gareth Hughes being alone with your son?

  14. Pete George 14
    24 August 2011 at 1:06 pm

    Who has substance?

    Try finding all Labour’s policies here: http://www.ownourfuture.co.nz/
    – their emphasis seems to be anti-asset sales, not their own policies. Try finding a mention of Capital Gains Tax on their home page – isn’t it supposed to be their flagship policy?

    National cover quite a range of policies in what should be sufficient detail for most: http://www.national.org.nz/Policy.aspx

    Detailed and easy to find policies at UnitedFuture: http://www.unitedfuture.org.nz/our-policies/

    Same with Act: http://www.act.org.nz/policies

    Same with Greens: http://www.greens.org.nz/policy2

    You have to ask WP for his policies of the day.

    • r0b 14.1
      24 August 2011 at 1:31 pm

      You mean the huge red button that says “Labour’s fairer tax system explained”? Yeah that’s easy to miss!

      • Pete George 14.1.1
        24 August 2011 at 1:38 pm

        One policy, not labeled CGT or Capital Gains Tax.
        It’s not in the normal menu position that it’s natural to look.
        It’s near the bottom of the page – requires scrolling.
        It is still a download. That doesn’t make it easy – or likely many will bother.

        There’s one other policy that I can see – NZ Owned and Operated

        Where’s the substance

        • The Voice of Reason 14.1.1.1
          24 August 2011 at 2:02 pm

          A candidate for United Follicles* who isn’t sure he will even vote for himself or his party is worried that another party lacks substance. Nothing better to do, I guess.
           
           
          *Peter Dunne; The Mousse who Roared?

          • Pete George 14.1.1.1.1
            24 August 2011 at 2:09 pm

            I didn’t say I wasn’t sure, I’ve got a much better idea than usual how I’ll vote this far out, but I’ll make my final decisions on the day.

            Have you heard of tactical voting?

            • The Voice of Reason 14.1.1.1.1.1
              24 August 2011 at 2:29 pm

              Have you heard of commitment, Pete? Even the muppet the Nats have put up to lose Epsom hasn’t said he won’t vote for himself as a candidate, just that he wants the party vote to go to National. Can you confirm that you are going to at least party vote UF?
               
              And in the electorate race, what benefit would there be in tactical voting anyway? It’s a safe Labour seat, with over half the votes going to Labour at the last election and only 200 going to the party that thinks you represent them.

              • Pete George …
                24 August 2011 at 2:45 pm

                The last majority was big, but with a new Labour candidate that will quite likely close up, the only question is by how much.

                It’s pretty obvious how I’ll party vote. But what if Woodhouse or Turei looked like getting close (and I didn’t) and I preferred them to the Labour candidate? I’d vote to try and get who I thought would be the best representative for the electorate. Or I could vote Clark if I preferred him and wanted to help ensure he got in.

                • The Voice of Reason …
                  24 August 2011 at 3:26 pm

                  It was 52% to the Nat’s 30% in 2008, Pete, so knock yourself trying to tactically vote that away. And it’s not ‘pretty obvious’ which way you are going to party vote. You’re the UF candidate. Are you going to vote for your party or not?

                  • Pete George …
                    24 August 2011 at 3:31 pm

                    It was 52% to the Nat’s 30% in 2008

                    Do you think that size of gap is really far too big to close up?

                    • The Voice of Reason …
                      24 August 2011 at 3:40 pm

                      Yes. There, I’ve answered your question, how about you answer mine. Are you Party voting UF or not?

                    • Pete George …
                      24 August 2011 at 3:56 pm

                      Interesting, it’s very similar to another gap in percentages that seems to be floating around.

                      I’ll do what I choose on election day. It’s a secret ballot, it’s really not anyone else’s business.

                    • The Voice of Reason …
                      24 August 2011 at 4:07 pm

                      So that would be a no, then. Are you going to tell Dunne?

                    • Pete George …
                      24 August 2011 at 4:52 pm

                      I’m not saying in public to you or Peter Dunne who I’m voting for.

                      And I won’t tell you in private. Like just about every other candidate.

        • r0b 14.1.1.2
          24 August 2011 at 2:08 pm

          You’re thinking like a political insider PG.  Labours site uses simple language and drums home a few key messages.  For this stage of the campaign its completely appropriate (and a vast improvement on previous elections).

          PS – Any time you find polls showing that votes prefer UF policy do be sure and let us know.

      • Deadly_NZ 14.1.2
        24 August 2011 at 5:02 pm

        But hey you are talking to Pete Secret Squirrel who am I going to be this week ? George. SO yes he probably missed it, as it did’nt jump out, grab him by the throat, screaming at him, Look Here, with flashing neon signs.

    • McFlock 14.2
      24 August 2011 at 1:53 pm

      I like the way you include meaningless, banal truisms as “policy”.

      • Pete George 14.2.1
        24 August 2011 at 2:07 pm

        I agree there are plenty of vague statements, but they are there.
        Aren’t they all meaningless if you don’t get into government?

        • wtl 14.2.1.1
          24 August 2011 at 4:02 pm

          Aren’t they all meaningless if you don’t get into government?

          No, because policies can and do influence the positions of other political parties that may end up in government. Furthermore, some policies, especially those that receive media attention, can and do influence public opinion, which of course has an effect on the future direction of the country. It is also possible to have your policies implemented from outside government, if you are able to convince the government that they are a good idea.

          For example, the Greens have never actually been ‘in government’ (if I recall correctly, the closest they’ve come is abstaining from confidence and supply?), but you will find that they have successfully had a number of their policies implemented, the home insulation scheme being the latest example.

          This is of course goes to show that you don’t actually need to properly ‘support’ the government to make a difference in politics. I’d say there is something to be said for the Green Party which, for a large part, sticks to its principles, rather than blindly supporting whoever is in government or picking policies based on what will get the most votes.

          • Pete George 14.2.1.1.1
            24 August 2011 at 4:05 pm

            Fair points, but the degree of influence is significantly reduced out of government.

            I agree the Greens are relatively principled but not immune from saying things with the aim of attracting votes.

            • wtl 14.2.1.1.1.1
              24 August 2011 at 4:11 pm

              The point is that they are able to stay principled by staying out of government. I would also question whether ‘degree of influence is significantly reduced out of government’ as, IMO, the Greens have had more policies (or at least more substantial policies) implemented than United Future, despite UF being ‘in government’ the last three terms.

    • mik e 14.3
      24 August 2011 at 4:14 pm

      PG If Labour put their policy out now National will steel the popular ones so they have to wait until the last minute .Or they could do the same as National have done just lie and smile and wave

  15. In Vino Veritas 15
    24 August 2011 at 1:59 pm

    Ooo r0b!! yer so cutting, but still a wet. Yes, its a big red button. But I guess that one big red button tells the tale. “Voters prefer Labour’s remedy for the economy over National’s”

    Labours one remedy = CGT. And even your man Goff says its not fully fleshed out yet. Nice work Labour, you going ahead in leaps and bounds, well as much as one can leap and bound with two broken legs.

    And just for you my friend: Socialism is great, until you run out of other peoples money.

    Are you still annoyed? Seems like it.

    • rd 15.1
      24 August 2011 at 2:14 pm

      >Socialism is great, until you run out of other peoples money.

      That has now been changed to–

      Capitalism is great, until you run out of other peoples money.

      • aerobubble 15.1.1
        24 August 2011 at 2:49 pm

        Yeah, its great until you run out of other peoples money, which it always is.
        Money is call on future value. So eventually when we have entropy death
        of all the pristine ores and fuels the world has to offer, we’re fracked.
        Anarachists were right, all wealth is theft.

      • AAMC 15.1.2
        24 August 2011 at 2:52 pm

        Or, Capitalism’s great until you run out of Communist Chinese and Wahhabi Saudi money.

      • In Vino Veritas 15.1.3
        24 August 2011 at 2:57 pm

        rd, that’s given me a laugh. Amazing, some of you guys are actually quite funny in a real laugh sense. As opposed to laugh at you sense.

        I would say though, as I feel I must, with Socialism, it’s always other peoples money and when it runs out, so does Socialism, since governments are obliged to take on loss projects and many projects that are zero sum. At least with Capitalism it just grows another head and someone starts generating wealth sooner or later. Just like some of the rich listers, wealth goes up and sometimes, it goes way down, depending on how much risk is taken. Socialism just expects to clip the ticket while taking no risk (and pay themselves healthly for the hard job ticket clipping is).

        • rd 15.1.3.1
          24 August 2011 at 3:05 pm

          >>At least with Capitalism it just grows another head and someone starts generating wealth sooner or later.

          Ha thats it Economic darwinism.

          >>At least with Capitalism it just grows another head and someone starts generating wealth sooner or later.

          Or they are bailed out by the tax payer.

          • AAMC 15.1.3.1.1
            24 August 2011 at 3:58 pm

            Privatisation of wealth, Socialisation of risk.

          • In Vito Vertias 15.1.3.1.2
            25 August 2011 at 8:28 am

            Bailed out by the taxpayer? I’d suggest then, that they are bailed out with some of the taxes that they have paid. That’d be irony I guess.

        • mik e 15.1.3.2
          24 August 2011 at 4:27 pm

          SCF IVV .Then look at Singapores economy their are no successful laissez fair economies .Find one for me Ivv.Making up stories about socialism When the so cold party thats against it is spending more than ever on welfare. and many times more on corporate welfare .Spinning hypocritical BS is the ideology your promoting .Funny the left actually have a history of much lower unemployment and corporate welfare so you would think a logical person would be berating the right.Its probably because they borrow and hope and get the next generation to pay.$ 72 billion reasons not to support National thats how much this Govt is borrowing to buy your vote.

      • mik e 15.1.4
        24 August 2011 at 4:30 pm

        rd Then you borrow and hope

  16. Ianupnorth 16
    24 August 2011 at 2:41 pm

    This whole thread is thoroughly depressing; I’d say let’s get Gareth Morgan to be PM, except people would not like him as he has a lisp, a moustache and rides a motor bike.
     
    Is it any wonder the place is a mess?

    • In Vino Veritas 16.1
      24 August 2011 at 2:49 pm

      And he’s an economist…. that should eliminate him instantly

      • mik e 16.1.1
        24 August 2011 at 4:36 pm

        IVV he is one of the very few self made successful economists he has traveled to just about every part of this world and has seen what works and what doesn’t. He’s not a treasury ideologue nor a bank economist who both have vested interest in making lots of money for the big 4 banks ie treasury lunch bribes. Gareth Morgan is not afraid to attack any policy or promote it!

        • Craig Glen Eden 16.1.1.1
          24 August 2011 at 5:47 pm

          What as apposed to a money trader?At least economist no they dont actually generate anything useful Bankers and Money traders actually think they create wealth.

        • In Vito Vertias 16.1.1.2
          25 August 2011 at 8:46 am

          Mike e, you are really quite rabid aren’t you? Making up stories? hypocritical BS is the ideology I’m promoting? And I thought it was giving the blog food for thought. Tied to a stake by a leash in Port Louis is where a foaming at the mouth, barking creature like you should be.

          One of the few self made economists. A Tui moment. Yeah right. I happen to know a few self made economists, who have travelled to just about every part of the world, and have seen what works and what doesn’t. None of them are “Treasury idealogues” and none have “vested interests”. And guess what? Their views in some instances match Gareth’s, and in some instances don’t come within a bulls roar of his views. But hey, thats OK, everyone has an opinion or a theory. Least they are sensible and logical in their reasoning. Still wouldn’t want any of them as PM though.

          • ropata 16.1.1.2.1
            25 August 2011 at 7:30 pm

            IVV Don’t let the evidence dent your faith in the great power of Capitalism to save us!
            I guess you haven’t been reading any news for the last 3 years.

            Theoretically capitalism might work in certain ideal conditions (decent governance, prevention of fraud, adequate resources, commercial and legal environment, level playing field … ) however getting it right means a certain level of state intervention. And human nature being as it is people always try and cheat.

            http://howdaft.blogspot.com/2011/06/sad-state-of-new-zealand-economy.html

            The answer to the problems facing NZ isn’t some grossly superficial neo liberal market ideology, we need economic leadership that realises the purpose of economy and government is to SERVE THE PEOPLE.

            A decent society enables people to realise their potential and flourish.

            • In Vito Veritas 16.1.1.2.1.1
              26 August 2011 at 9:00 am

              ropata, yup, I read the news from time to time. It would appear I’ve been reading it for longer than you though since socialism has been failing for a lot longer than capitalism I would respectfully suggest.

              I do however agree with you that a certain amount of intervention is required. But in saying that, I’m in the less is more camp. I’m (which will probably not surprise you) the “individual choice” camp as well.

              You made a typo in your statement which I’ve taken the liberty to correct

              The answer to the problems facing NZ isn’t some grossly superficial socialist market ideology, we need economic leadership that realises the purpose of economy and government is to SERVE THE PEOPLE.

              A decent society enables people to realise their potential and flourish.

              Just as a matter of interest, if you dont mind me asking, are you a state socialist, a social democrat or a libertarian socialist?

              • Colonial Viper …
                26 August 2011 at 9:21 am

                The answer to the problems facing NZ isn’t some grossly superficial socialist market ideology, we need economic leadership that realises the purpose of economy and government is to SERVE THE PEOPLE.

                I agree with you. What we need is a deep and thoughtful socialist ideology which can work effectively and pragmatically in a globalised capitalist world. To serve ALL the people. Not just the smartest, the richest, the most able, or the most ambitious. But every single person as a citizen with equal rights to participate in society and equal responsibilities to participate in society.

                Currently what we have is economic leadership which serves a very small set of stakeholders: primarily a board of directors of around a dozen people (generally men) and a few major shareholders (often institutional investors run by men).

                Having read your previous posts I don’t think you believe in the above quote you wrote in the slightest, but I am willing to humour you.

                A transition to a mixed democratic socialism-capitalism model would be quite possible for NZ to do, it could occur over in a less than 10 year span, and would necessarily require considerable government restructuring of the economy: but resulting in much more economic freedom for individuals and small groups.

  17. randal 17
    24 August 2011 at 8:19 pm

    I know who is is going to win but I’m not going to tell you.
    You are just going to have to wait and see.
    but I’ll give you a clue.
    it could be red but it wont be blue.

  18. Ianupnorth 18
    25 August 2011 at 11:47 am

    My grandad had an expression for people that were all show and no substance

    Fur coat, nae knickers

    • In Vino Veritas 18.1
      25 August 2011 at 4:55 pm

      Oooh yuck Ian!! Can you imagine your mates Goff and King “Fur coat nae knickers”? Shivers, that’d be wrong, though. Silly me – no show and no substance, so shall we say “No coat, no knickers”. Wretch. Even worse.

Links to post

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Speech to the 2024 Infrastructure Symposium
    Introduction Good morning. It’s a great privilege to be here at the 2024 Infrastructure Symposium. I was extremely happy when the Prime Minister asked me to be his Minister for Infrastructure. It is one of the great barriers holding the New Zealand economy back from achieving its potential. Building high ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    13 hours ago

  • $571 million for Defence pay and projects
    Defence Minister Judith Collins today announced the upcoming Budget will include new funding of $571 million for Defence Force pay and projects. “Our servicemen and women do New Zealand proud throughout the world and this funding will help ensure we retain their services and expertise as we navigate an increasingly ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    18 hours ago

  • Climate change – mitigating the risks and costs
    New Zealand’s ability to cope with climate change will be strengthened as part of the Government’s focus to build resilience as we rebuild the economy, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. “An enduring and long-term approach is needed to provide New Zealanders and the economy with certainty as the climate ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    19 hours ago

  • Getting new job seekers on the pathway to work
    Jobseeker beneficiaries who have work obligations must now meet with MSD within two weeks of their benefit starting to determine their next step towards finding a job, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “A key part of the coalition Government’s plan to have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Accelerating Social Investment
    A new standalone Social Investment Agency will power-up the social investment approach, driving positive change for our most vulnerable New Zealanders, Social Investment Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Despite the Government currently investing more than $70 billion every year into social services, we are not seeing the outcomes we want for ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Getting Back on Track
    Check against delivery Good morning. It is a pleasure to be with you to outline the Coalition Government’s approach to our first Budget. Thank you Mark Skelly, President of the Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, together with  your Board and team, for hosting me.   I’d like to acknowledge His Worship ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • NZ – European Union ties more critical than ever
    Your Excellency Ambassador Meredith,   Members of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassadors from European Union Member States,   Ministerial colleagues, Members of Parliament, and other distinguished guests, Thank you everyone for joining us.   Ladies and gentlemen -    In diplomacy, we often speak of ‘close’ and ‘long-standing’ relations.   ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Therapeutic Products Act to be repealed
    The Therapeutic Products Act (TPA) will be repealed this year so that a better regime can be put in place to provide New Zealanders safe and timely access to medicines, medical devices and health products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello announced today. “The medicines and products we are talking about ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Decisions on Wellington City Council’s District Plan
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop, today released his decision on twenty recommendations referred to him by the Wellington City Council relating to its Intensification Planning Instrument, after the Council rejected those recommendations of the Independent Hearings Panel and made alternative recommendations. “Wellington notified its District Plan on ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Rape Awareness Week: Government committed to action on sexual violence
    Rape Awareness Week (6-10 May) is an important opportunity to acknowledge the continued effort required by government and communities to ensure that all New Zealanders can live free from violence, say Ministers Karen Chhour and Louise Upston.  “With 1 in 3 women and 1 in 8 men experiencing sexual violence ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Smarter lunch programme feeds more, costs less
    Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the Government will be delivering a more efficient Healthy School Lunches Programme, saving taxpayers approximately $107 million a year compared to how Labour funded it, by embracing innovation and commercial expertise. “We are delivering on our commitment to treat taxpayers’ money ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Report provides insights into marine recovery
    New research on the impacts of extreme weather on coastal marine habitats in Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay will help fishery managers plan for and respond to any future events, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. A report released today on research by Niwa on behalf of Fisheries New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • NZ to send political delegation to the Pacific
    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will lead a broad political delegation on a five-stop Pacific tour next week to strengthen New Zealand’s engagement with the region.   The delegation will visit Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Tuvalu.    “New Zealand has deep and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Low gas production threatens energy security
    There has been a material decline in gas production according to figures released today by the Gas Industry Co.  Figures released by the Gas Industry Company show that there was a 12.5 per cent reduction in gas production during 2023, and a 27.8 per cent reduction in gas production in the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Defence industry talent, commitment recognised
    Defence Minister Judith Collins tonight announced the recipients of the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry, saying they all contribute to New Zealanders’ security and wellbeing. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients, whose innovative products and services play a critical role in the delivery of New Zealand’s defence capabilities, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Speech to the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry
    Welcome to you all - it is a pleasure to be here this evening.I would like to start by thanking Greg Lowe, Chair of the New Zealand Defence Industry Advisory Council, for co-hosting this reception with me. This evening is about recognising businesses from across New Zealand and overseas who in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Speech to the Sixth Annual New Zealand Government Data Summit
    It is a pleasure to be speaking to you as the Minister for Digitising Government.  I would like to thank Akolade for the invitation to address this Summit, and to acknowledge the great effort you are making to grow New Zealand’s digital future. Today, we stand at the cusp of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Ceasefire agreement needed now: Peters
    New Zealand is urging both Israel and Hamas to agree to an immediate ceasefire to avoid the further humanitarian catastrophe that military action in Rafah would unleash, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “The immense suffering in Gaza cannot be allowed to worsen further. Both sides have a responsibility to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Daily school attendance data now available
    A new online data dashboard released today as part of the Government’s school attendance action plan makes more timely daily attendance data available to the public and parents, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour.  The interactive dashboard will be updated once a week to show a national average of how ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Ambassador to United States appointed
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced Rosemary Banks will be New Zealand’s next Ambassador to the United States of America.    “Our relationship with the United States is crucial for New Zealand in strategic, security and economic terms,” Mr Peters says.    “New Zealand and the United States have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • New permit proposed for recreational gold mining
    The Government is considering creating a new tier of minerals permitting that will make it easier for hobby miners to prospect for gold. “New Zealand was built on gold, it’s in our DNA. Our gold deposits, particularly in regions such as Otago and the West Coast have always attracted fortune-hunters. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • NZ and the UAE launch FTA negotiations
    Minister for Trade Todd McClay today announced that New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA). Minister McClay met with his counterpart UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Dubai, where they announced the launch of negotiations on a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • New Zealand Sign Language Week an opportunity for anyone to sign
    New Zealand Sign Language Week is an excellent opportunity for all Kiwis to give the language a go, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. This week (May 6 to 12) is New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week. The theme is “an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere” and aims to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Next stop NASA for New Zealand students
    Six tertiary students have been selected to work on NASA projects in the US through a New Zealand Space Scholarship, Space Minister Judith Collins announced today. “This is a fantastic opportunity for these talented students. They will undertake internships at NASA’s Ames Research Center or its Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • $1.9 billion investment to keep NZ safe from crime
    New Zealanders will be safer because of a $1.9 billion investment in more frontline Corrections officers, more support for offenders to turn away from crime, and more prison capacity, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says. “Our Government said we would crack down on crime. We promised to restore law and order, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • OECD reinforces need to control spending
    The OECD’s latest report on New Zealand reinforces the importance of bringing Government spending under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The OECD conducts country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The 2024 New Zealand survey was presented in Wellington today by OECD Chief Economist Clare Lombardelli.   ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Agreement delivers Local Water Done Well for Auckland
    The Government has delivered on its election promise to provide a financially sustainable model for Auckland under its Local Water Done Well plan. The plan, which has been unanimously endorsed by Auckland Council’s Governing Body, will see Aucklanders avoid the previously projected 25.8 per cent water rates increases while retaining ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with Germany
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today.    "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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 week ago

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

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-10T16:10:32+00:00