The Northland Buy Election

Written By: - Date published: 7:01 pm, March 28th, 2015 - 201 comments
Categories: john key, national - Tags: , ,

image

The polling booths are closed and the count has begun. Will National lose one of its safest seats to the man National attacked and ridiculed in 2008?

Will this be the beginning of the end of the John Key reign? Will the good people of Northland judge that National’s reign is intellectually and ethically bankrupt and they no longer deserve support? Will the circumstances of Mike Sabin’s exit from Parliament, whatever they are, cause locals to shun the party that has represented Northland for many decades?

The first thing to look for is the results of the early votes which should be announced reasonably quickly.  There are a sizeable number of them, 13,089 in fact.  This is over 3,500 more than in the 2014 general election.  This may be indication of increased interest although it may reflect the amount of resources National has put into the campaign.

Today Cameron Slater claimed to have received a complaint from the Electoral Commission (donotlink link) and asked to take a number of articles down.  It is hard to imagine why.  But they seem to include all articles that mention Mike Sabin or Mark Osborne or Northland.  Funny that.

Stay tuned …

201 comments on “The Northland Buy Election ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Alethios 1
    28 March 2015 at 7:09 pm

    From http://www.elections.org.nz/events/2015-northland-election-0/northland-election-results:

    Targets for release are:
    by 7.30pm all advance vote results
    by 9.00pm results from 50% of voting places
    by 10.00pm results from 100% of voting places.

  2. Lanthanide 2
    28 March 2015 at 7:10 pm

    Winston leading by 1,278 at 4197 to 2901 at 7521 total counted, 9.2% of booths.

    Assuming that’s the early voting coming it, it seems to favour Winston heavily.

  3. mickysavage 3
    28 March 2015 at 7:11 pm

    And Winston is ahead by over 200 after 6 booths. Ominous for the nats …

    http://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electorate-35.html

    • Stephanie Rodgers 3.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:14 pm

      I’m glued to the refresh button on my browser. It’s so early in the piece but it has the potential to be a thorough pasting, and I was not expecting that at all!

    • rawshark-yeshe 3.2
      28 March 2015 at 7:17 pm

      and so goooooooooooooooood for us all !

      • lurgee 3.2.1
        28 March 2015 at 7:29 pm

        Nah, it is good for Wonston, and John Key. Winston gets the baubles of office he is addicted to, and Key gets to continue to lord it over us.

        What on Earth makes people think Winston will do anything other than foist himself upon the National led government?

        • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 3.2.1.1
          28 March 2015 at 7:49 pm

          It would be better to have Winston tapping on the breaks on the donkey juggernaut, rather than not having such breaks at all.

          • lurgee 3.2.1.1.1
            28 March 2015 at 8:09 pm

            Dunno about that. People might sicken of National unbraked sooner than than National braked, if you follow me.

        • Tracey 3.2.1.2
          29 March 2015 at 12:13 pm

          Wat baubles do you think Nat will offer him lurgee, given you are sure they will offer them and he will take them?

    • Murray Rawshark 3.3
      28 March 2015 at 8:14 pm

      As I look at it at 5:13 pm Brisbane time, I can see that the ACT voters didn’t take RImmer’s advice. They all still voted ACT.

  4. The Fairy Godmother 4
    28 March 2015 at 7:12 pm

    What do you think the chances are that Peters will do a deal with National if he wins like he did in 1996. I hope he doesn’t.

    • Lanthanide 4.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:15 pm

      ?

      Winston winning is not going to change the make-up of Parliament. He might negotiate on the RMA bill, but that’s about it.

      • rawshark-yeshe 4.1.1
        28 March 2015 at 7:18 pm

        he will take the smug grin from the faces of the front bench of Gnacts .. then he will begin his real work. Winston is for NZ, not USA.

  6. Sacha 6
    28 March 2015 at 7:21 pm

    After all advance votes, Winston almost 1500 ahead.

  7. Pasupial 7
    28 March 2015 at 7:22 pm

    A 3611 advance vote increase is immense for a byelection. That’s 138% of the 2014 general election. LPrent may have been right when he suggested that the advance would be around 50% of total votes; 26178 would be 75% of the 2014 turnout – which would be high for a byelection.

    My guess is that the early results (representing advance votes) will favour National, though NZF may take even these. I expect Peters to be ahead by 9pm (50% of today’s vote added to advance).

    • Pasupial 7.1
      28 March 2015 at 9:00 pm

      The final turnout was 83.7% of the 2014 result (just shy of 30 thousand if specials are included, though some will prove to be invalid). 43.8% of these were advance votes.

      The commenting system was a bit glitchy this evening – but I imagine TS had a fair bit of traffic compared to an average Saturday! Congratulations and thanks to all in Northland.

  8. RedBaronCV 8
    28 March 2015 at 7:23 pm

    Act has 26 of the 126? they got last time. The faithful did not listen?

  9. Skinny 9
    28 March 2015 at 7:26 pm

    OK brother & sisters of the Standard here is the latest report from Russelll.

    Katie Bradford has just told me Peters is ahead by 1300 with 3℅ of votes counted. I’m on the piss with yyachting friends next to the Duke where Peters function is being held. At the rate i am drinking I will be staggering in to the invite only gig. Feeling a little special their is only about a 150 on the list.

    • RedBaronCV 9.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:28 pm

      Skinny you are our eyes on the ground – could you switch to water for a while please?

      • Stephanie Rodgers 9.1.1
        28 March 2015 at 7:32 pm

        A water in between each wine, that’s the ticket.

      • Skinny 9.1.2
        28 March 2015 at 7:44 pm

        I don’t do water sorry. As is customary Peters is not here yet the crowd is nervous from 30 meters away. O’Brien waved to me and looks glum faced Katie B has gone to dolly up, Peters is 2000 ahead at 50 % coubted.

        More of my friends have turned up we are having much more fun. The thought of going to join what appears to be Tories ( walking by is off putting) anyway another drink has arrived, however I’d rather have a drink on tight Peters lol. OK I will get in there soon folks.

    • Anne 9.2
      28 March 2015 at 7:37 pm

      Cool it mate. We’re counting on you to keep us up to date with EVERYTHING. Lay off the piss for a bit longer please… or is it too late. 🙁

  10. lurgee 10
    28 March 2015 at 7:33 pm

    If Peters can do this with noting but a twinkle in his eye and good hair, why the Hell have Labour found National so impervious?

    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 10.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:56 pm

      e.g. Labour is vague about TPPA, wanted to increase pension age, etc

  11. rawshark-yeshe 11
    28 March 2015 at 7:33 pm

    I cant get the Electoral Commission website to update figures .. anyone else having similar ? so where else to get figures ?

  12. de Withiel 12
    28 March 2015 at 7:34 pm

    Auto update here: http://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electorate-35.html (check lower right corner of screen).

    • rawshark-yeshe 12.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:37 pm

      thx de Withiel .. have that but the updating doesn’t change figures for me … will, watch Stuff until TV3 later I guess .. and here of course !

  13. Hateatea 13
    28 March 2015 at 7:36 pm

    At home with 11 year old so no liquor but there may be loud cheering echoing forth.

  14. kiwigunner 14
    28 March 2015 at 7:37 pm

    28% of booths 1543 ahead.

  15. r0b 15
    28 March 2015 at 7:37 pm

    Bloody Winston Peters is going to win.

    • rawshark-yeshe 15.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:41 pm

      Bloody marvelous ! Never doubted it ! Just proves how out of touch and over-spun Key et al truly are .. not a bloody clue. Yah sux boo to Crosby Textor … eat this. Now we can try to get NZ back, please !

  16. kiwigunner 16
    28 March 2015 at 7:38 pm

    29% 1557 ahead – lead increasing at each booth

  17. RedBaronCV 17
    28 March 2015 at 7:38 pm

    Anybody know where the early votes were cast. If there are a lot of south of Whangarei votes in it then possibly Nact are in real trouble?

  18. kiwigunner 18
    28 March 2015 at 7:38 pm

    31 booth 1661!

  19. Hateatea 19
    28 March 2015 at 7:39 pm

    Stuff sent Tracey Watkins to be with Winston so it looks like they are thinking he will do it.

  20. kiwigunner 20
    28 March 2015 at 7:41 pm

    35 booths 1829 ahead

  21. Zorr 21
    28 March 2015 at 7:41 pm

    Right now, Key is calling Tony Abbott and asking him how he managed to survive the knives in the back…

    33% and a 1600 vote lead for Winston…

  22. lurgee 22
    28 March 2015 at 7:43 pm

    What portfolio do you think Winston will demand of Key?

    • Murray Rawshark 22.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:20 pm

      I doubt very much if he will. Key, on the other hand, will almost definitely offer. I think Winnie will turn him down.

    • Tracey 22.2
      29 March 2015 at 12:17 pm

      nothing, why do you think they will offer? They have Rimmer and Hairspray. You tell us who key will remove from a post in favour of Peters, as you are so sure.

  23. Hateatea 23
    28 March 2015 at 7:43 pm

    Poor Osbourne. He gets to have Paula Bennett and Chris Bishop instead of the PM, lol

  24. greywarshark 24
    28 March 2015 at 7:44 pm

    As the reports come in with Winston so far ahead and the one I have just heard has Willow Jean Prime at just uner 700, I want to say that I think she has proved an excellent candidate saying all the right things and very staunch. She sounds a great find for Labour. I think there is a baby due in a while, and wish her well with that event and a period of consolidation of support building in the electorate. And I hope all goes well so she can stand again in 2017.

  25. kiwigunner 25
    28 March 2015 at 7:45 pm

    42 booths 1921 ahead – it’s looking good

  26. kiwigunner 26
    28 March 2015 at 7:46 pm

    Now over 2000 in the lead – I wonder if Kerikeri has been counted?

  27. Stephanie Rodgers 27
    28 March 2015 at 7:46 pm

    49% counted and a majority of over 2,000. This is DONE.

  28. mickysavage 28
    28 March 2015 at 7:47 pm

    This looks like a good old fashioned hiding. Wonder what made the good people of Northland vote this way?

    😀

    • rawshark-yeshe 28.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:50 pm

      indignation for starters … fool me once, and all that …. just wonderful. 9000 majority at GE and now this loss ? Thank you Northland voters.

    • kiwigunner 28.2
      28 March 2015 at 7:53 pm

      Well I am in Northland and I want a fairer country – especially for the forgotton folk up here. Life opportunities are low here and up until now no one gives a dam. Poverty is never a good thing but even worse is disrespect.

    • lurgee 28.3
      28 March 2015 at 7:53 pm

      Surely the burning question is, why haven’t Labour been able to do the same as Winston?

      There is obviously dissatisfaction with National. But the dislike of Labour seems to be even stronger.

      • weka 28.3.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:02 pm

        🙄

        • lurgee 28.3.1.1
          28 March 2015 at 8:07 pm

          You don’t think it is just a bit sad that we’re reduced to getting all excited about Winston Peters doing the job we’ve been totally incapable of doing?

          Without, it must be noted, disturbing a hair of his perfectly coiffured head.

          Key will doubtless recognise Peters – not Labour or the greens – as the real danger and ensure he is stuffed full of baubles before the end of the week.

          • Tracey 28.3.1.1.1
            29 March 2015 at 12:19 pm

            You do understand that Northland is a vERY TRADITIONAL RIGHT WING SEAT?

            It is unlikely anyone from the left would unseat National.

            Your comments throughout this thread are uninformed or deliberately inflaming.

      • Hanswurst 28.3.2
        28 March 2015 at 8:14 pm

        I don’t think this question is so much “burning” as it is “pointless”. Your second statement answers your initial question to a large extent. It’s historically a safe National seat, which means that many voters have two reflexes: 1. Vote National, 2. Don’t vote Labour.

        Peters is an old-school conservative, a Nat from three/four decades ago. In a case of heavy dissatisfaction with National, he offers an option that is palatable in ways (political and tribal) that voting a Labour candidate simply isn’t.

        • felix 28.3.2.1
          28 March 2015 at 8:31 pm

          Good analysis.

          What about applying the pointless question to the rest of the country?

          • Hanswurst 28.3.2.1.1
            29 March 2015 at 12:11 am

            If Winston Peters had got 54% of the nationwide vote, there might be reason to project the Northland experience across the wider electorate. Seeing has he didn’t, however, I’m really not seeing your point here.

            • felix 28.3.2.1.1.1
              29 March 2015 at 12:20 am

              I didn’t suggest projecting your answer across the electorate, I suggested projecting the question.

              If the opposition as a whole could campaign across the country half as well as Winston has in Northland, they wouldn’t be in opposition.

              .

              • Hanswurst …
                29 March 2015 at 12:24 am

                I agree that the question of why Labour has gained so little traction with the wider electorate is worthy of asking, but it has been asked on here virtually every day for at least the last six years. I don’t think that Peters’ campaign will provide many insights, however, since elections rarely throw up the sort of perfect storm that this by-election did, and very few NZ politicians (i. e. one) are Winston Peters.

                • felix …
                  29 March 2015 at 12:45 am

                  Yes indeed. I don’t think many would want to live in a world with more than one, in fact plenty find that number too high.

                  I think if there are lessons here they are that a little co-operation goes a long way, and that Key and Crosby/Textor are not frickin magic.

                  • Tracey …
                    29 March 2015 at 12:21 pm

                    and as you wrote, by understanding that the NZ electorate is a conservative one but Peter’s version of conservative is far more caring than the Nats version since 1984 (and I include Douglas, Prebble, Goff, Dunne and others in that )

        • lurgee 28.3.2.2
          28 March 2015 at 8:37 pm

          And how do you think Peters will respond to those political realities? By making life uncomfortable for Key?

          • Hanswurst 28.3.2.2.1
            29 March 2015 at 12:21 am

            I imagine Peters’ added clout will make life difficult for both of the major parties. I think that its effect on this third-term National government will be more detrimental than it will be on a Labour opposition, however. After all, Labour, being in opposition, don’t have to take responsibility for anything. I’m not saying that I think that Peters’ success is a good thing per se. However, I do think that it presents a opportunity to Labour (or anybody in opposition), to the extent that it weakens Key’s image in the eyes of the public, a state of affairs that may snowball – especially if National continue to show such inept and panicky judgment as they appear to have done over the last few weeks.

          • Tracey 28.3.2.2.2
            29 March 2015 at 12:22 pm

            Given the only other realistic option was for osbourne to have won, what “political realities” do you think Northland and the nation would have been waking to this morning had that happened?

  29. freedom 29
    28 March 2015 at 7:47 pm

    at 50% counted, Peters has a majority of 2,153
    http://www.electionresults.govt.nz/electorate-35.html

    • greywarshark 29.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:02 pm

      Thanks freedom for the handly link. I feel that the other candidates should be praised for putting themselves forward and going through the election process when it was likely to be a three horse race at most.

  30. dv 30
    28 March 2015 at 7:47 pm

    48% counted over 2000 ahead
    and growing

  31. Macro 31
    28 March 2015 at 7:50 pm

    🙂 see Rob Painting stood on a Climate Ticket. Good on him. Rob is a regular correspondent and contributor on Sceptical Science specialising in Oceanography and the acidification of the oceans. Met him briefly at the Auckland Town Hall when James Hansen was visiting a couple of years back. Lovely guy. He would have had my vote, even though Winston needs to win this for the country.

  32. McFlock 32
    28 March 2015 at 7:50 pm

    Sooo – looks like a good kick in the nuts for the entitled asses…

    • rawshark-yeshe 32.1
      28 March 2015 at 7:52 pm

      and Blip will have another lie to add to his list :

      Key: Peters doesn’t have a chance !

      • Lanthanide 32.1.1
        28 March 2015 at 7:56 pm

        It’s only a lie if you know it to be false at the time it is said. So a good 60% of the “lies” on Blips list immediately are disqualified; this would just be another one.

        • rawshark-yeshe 32.1.1.1
          28 March 2015 at 7:58 pm

          so Key was just stupid and horribly ill-informed > not lying at all ? interesting view you have.

          • Lanthanide 32.1.1.1.1
            28 March 2015 at 8:01 pm

            Arrogant, and using the information he had available at that point – there had not yet been any polling done.

          • greywarshark 32.1.1.1.2
            28 March 2015 at 8:12 pm

            Just another one of Key’s skewed opinions rather than a lie. Anyone with half a brain would know that it was at the best an educated guess, if that.

  33. dan1 33
    28 March 2015 at 7:51 pm

    55/98 2232 ahead. Not even close. Go Winston!

  34. kiwigunner 34
    28 March 2015 at 7:53 pm

    61% and nice round 2500 ahead!

  35. RedBaronCV 35
    28 March 2015 at 7:53 pm

    looks like some of the bigger booths came in and they are mostly in the blue areas. Winston increases lead from them

  36. Bearded Git 36
    28 March 2015 at 7:54 pm

    About 10500 still to count-Osbourne would have to win this 6500-4000.

    It’s all over rover.

  37. RedBaronCV 37
    28 March 2015 at 7:59 pm

    Do you think we can pick a time yet when we can all raise that victory glass together?

    • lurgee 37.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:02 pm

      I won’t be toasting a Peters’ victory. A Labour, Mana or Green victory, yes. But not one that is just going to extend John Key’s reign.

      Look, I know there is a desperate need to see the words “National defeated” in any context. But this result will change nothing and – given the comparative ease with which Peters has managed it – it raises some troubling questions about Labour’s utter inability to challenge Key.

      Sorry to spoil the party, but it isn’t our party. It is the party of Winston Peters, a self serving right wing demagogue. Nothing for progressives to celebrate here.

    • Anne 37.2
      28 March 2015 at 8:04 pm

      Wine glass ready..

  38. kiwigunner 38
    28 March 2015 at 8:00 pm

    Osbourne hardly had the chance to speak during the campaign. I wonder if any of Key/Joyce/Bridges/Bennett are willing to do his conceding speech?

  39. swordfish 39
    28 March 2015 at 8:01 pm

    Looks like the legendary National Party Machine isn’t quite all it’s cracked-up to be.

    Widespread speculation on the Blue-ness of the Early Votes appears to have been wrong. Angry rather than compliant Northlanders.

    • Ant 39.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:05 pm

      It’s probably what happens when the opposition actually cooperates and stops acting like rabid dogs fighting over a piece of meat.

  40. dan1 40
    28 March 2015 at 8:03 pm

    I am fascinated by the factions in Nat head office and parliament. Can someone please explain the implications of this Nat disaster for the various wannabes.

  41. fender 41
    28 March 2015 at 8:03 pm

    “Today Cameron Slater claimed to have received a complaint from the Electoral Commission and asked to take a number of articles down.”

    Well with his corrupt friends in high places gig the wailing boy-wonder should get a reply to his “we have OIAd who has laid the complaint” before Winston is declared winner.

  42. weka 42
    28 March 2015 at 8:05 pm

    Looks like Labour’s strategy has worked.

    • lurgee 42.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:17 pm

      What strategy? The one that involved showing that Key and National are beatable, except by Labour?

      Enjoy your victory-by-proxy, because I think this is a long term disaster. It changes nothing, other than forcing Key and Peters to get used to working together, making it even less likely NZ First will look Labour’s way in 2017. And if we’re going to be stuck on 30% then, we’ll need the simpering glances of every coquette we can get.

  43. Colonial Rawshark 43
    28 March 2015 at 8:06 pm

    Apperas to me like Labour voters understand strategic voting just fine.

    • weka 43.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:09 pm

      Snap. Am pleasantly surprised. It’s possible this election has generated more local attention than many seats in the general election.

    • swordfish 43.2
      28 March 2015 at 8:17 pm

      The Early March TV3 Reid Research Poll suggested almost half of 2014 Labour voters were already thinking of strategically voting Winston at that very early stage. The latest One News Colmar Brunton had nearly 70% of Labour supporters going Winnie by the start of this week. Left voters come in for a lot of flak for supposedly not voting strategically in Epsom, Ohariu etc but I’d say Northland Labour supporters deserve a major pat on the back. They were way ahead of the game.

  44. ankerawshark 44
    28 March 2015 at 8:07 pm

    78% or thereabouts, Winston leading by 3000.

    I hope Paula B is crying into her wine glass.

  45. Hateatea 45
    28 March 2015 at 8:08 pm

    This is when I wish we had a ‘like’ button.

  46. RedBaronCV 46
    28 March 2015 at 8:09 pm

    And the weed still outstrips Act

  47. lurgee 47
    28 March 2015 at 8:13 pm

    Act currently have 59 votes. Now THAT is funny.

  48. phillip ure 48
    28 March 2015 at 8:13 pm

    he’s nailed it..

    woo-fucken hoo..!

  49. rawshark-yeshe 49
    28 March 2015 at 8:16 pm

    just imagine if the secrets had not stayed secret … tsunami !!!

    • Macro 49.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:18 pm

      🙂
      I think the rumour machine has been in top gear these past few weeks. Might have been better if they had fronted up.
      Or maybe not.
      Bastards.

    • phillip ure 49.2
      28 March 2015 at 8:24 pm

      i am actually glad it never came out..

      ..’cos they could have used that as an excuse for the victory..

      ..peters has won it fair an square – and on his own merits..

      well done !..that man..!

      • Macro 49.2.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:31 pm

        Well Phillip it would have served them right to have re-selected u no who in the first place.
        ie He should have gone quietly (for personal reasons) in 2014.
        But their arrogance is appalling. and the people of Northland have delivered their judgement.

  50. Alan W 50
    28 March 2015 at 8:21 pm

    I still cant see any reason to celebrate.
    center/center right – about 85% of the vote
    left/center left – about 15% of the vote.
    Again, someone please explain to me how this will help Labour form the next government.

    • Macro 50.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:25 pm

      Have you read nothing of NZF policies?

    • Ant 50.2
      28 March 2015 at 8:25 pm

      It’s a massive blow to National’s brand, pretty simple really. It helps Labour form the next government by weakening National.

      • lurgee 50.2.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:45 pm

        Alternately, it helps National form the next government by making them form a working relationship with Peters now, so that it will be natural to continue that relationship in 2017 … and a National Party being held in check by Peters between now and then will probably be a touch more electable than a National Party that has been free to do its own thing (which is what we’ve effectively got just now).

    • Ovid 50.3
      28 March 2015 at 8:27 pm

      Again, someone please explain to me how this will help Labour form the next government.

      It tarnishes Key and makes him look weak. He’s had an unparalleled run of electoral success since 2008. I think this may be his first setback. When soft National voters start looking for other options, then they start thinking about voting for a change of government.

      • lurgee 50.3.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:48 pm

        That’s very hopeful. The alternative view is it made Labour look weak as they had to rely on Winston showing up in the mood for a fight. And it weakens the progressive position for the longer term. And as for weakening Key’s brand, he’ll shrug and grin a bit and say he’s sure everything will be okay, Winston will be stuffed full of the baubles of office, and that will be that.

    • phillip ure 50.4
      28 March 2015 at 8:27 pm

      @ alan..

      labour have learnt how tactical voting can bring victory..

    • kiwigunner 50.5
      28 March 2015 at 8:32 pm

      my enemys enemy is my friend.

    • greywarshark 50.6
      28 March 2015 at 8:36 pm

      @ Alan W
      If you read past comments in posts on Northland which have appeared every day you will find much discussion about the strategic value of Winston getting in, and what it will. might or might not achieve. Overall, the feeling is that it is a positive thing, may achieve worthwhile results, puts a spoke in National’s progress which has too long been on a primrose path not justified by the their cretinous policies and the state of the country, and has aroused unprecedented energy and interest in Northland’s voters and the country.

    • sabine 50.7
      28 March 2015 at 8:47 pm

      it actually does not matter if ‘this’ will help Labour form the next government or not.

      It matters that for the next two years, National will actually have to work to get bills to pass, and that hopefully Winston is a NZ First kind a guy who will not sell the country and its people down the dried up river bed.

      It matters that for the next two years, Dear Leader will have to grin and bare it anytime Mr. Winston calls him to task.

      it matters for those hat have not voted for Dear Leader in the last election, the 1 third of the population that actively voted against him, and the 1 third that was so cut of they did not bother to vote at all.

      Labour, if they want to, will have a shot at 2017 and if their programe is right they will be voted in and will form a government, with or without Winston.

      It matters, that National did not manage to put their sockpuppet forward and win.

      the end.

  51. greywarshark 51
    28 March 2015 at 8:24 pm

    Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. After that what more can one say!

  52. dan1 52
    28 March 2015 at 8:27 pm

    Hans Christian Andersen’s Emperor story somehow has parallels here. Is Winston going to be the young fellow who yells out to John Key “But he is not wearing anything!”
    Are the good citizens of Northland setting a precedent by indicating the Nats have lost their way?

  53. Sans Cle 53
    28 March 2015 at 8:27 pm

    WOo-hoo…..let’s look forward to National having to actually debate Bills and consult others! A great win for New Zealand’s democratic process. Let’s hope the RMA survives!

  54. Murray Rawshark 54
    28 March 2015 at 8:27 pm

    Now for a glass of Pinot Noir.

    • rawshark-yeshe 54.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:31 pm

      and well-earned Murray !

      in terms of turn out, how high is it as regards the last GE ?

      • Murray Rawshark 54.1.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:37 pm

        I’ve got no idea. Someone here will know.

      • Puddleglum 54.1.2
        28 March 2015 at 8:51 pm

        Total votes were 35,707 in 2014.

        This time it’s 28,468 turnout. Very good for a by-election in a ‘safe’ seat.

      • Molly 54.1.3
        28 March 2015 at 8:57 pm

        Turnout-
        GE 2014: 35,707 Today: 28,468

        National votes: GE – 18,269 Today – 11,347
        Labour: GE – 8,969 Today – 1,315
        FocusNZ: GE – 1,661 Today – 107
        Green Party: GE – 3,639 – Today – N/A
        Conservative: GE – 1,555 Today – N/A

        NZ First – GE – 4,546 Today – 15,359

  55. ankerawshark 55
    28 March 2015 at 8:29 pm

    To get National out, people have to be pissed off with them and start to vote against them. This has just happened.

  56. Craig H 56
    28 March 2015 at 8:31 pm

    98% counted, Winston ahead by 3909 votes. Stick a fork in it, it’s done.

  57. phillip ure 57
    28 March 2015 at 8:32 pm

    how fucked is prime news..?

    ..they just did a news update – didn’t mention it..

  58. Hateatea 58
    28 March 2015 at 8:35 pm

    One booth to count. Will Winston crack the 4000 ahead of Osborne figure? That is the only question not yet answered. Northland told NACT where to go in no uncertain terms

  59. freedom 59
    28 March 2015 at 8:36 pm

    99% counted, Majority: 3,995 The winner, and still the grinniest guy in the room

    Winston Peters
    polite applause drifts across from the KeriKeri Golf Club

  60. felix 60
    28 March 2015 at 8:41 pm

    Where is John Key (lbp)?

    Surely he hasn’t abandoned his boy.

    • freedom 60.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:43 pm

      he left earlier today for the cricket

    • rawshark-yeshe 60.2
      28 March 2015 at 8:44 pm

      in awstrylia for the cricket cos he didn’t need to be here or in singapore.

    • felix 60.3
      28 March 2015 at 8:47 pm

      Jeez imagine standing in the most widely covered by-election in a generation and your party leader doesn’t even show up to support you.

      What happened to the “team” in “Team Key (lbp)”?

  61. Hateatea 61
    28 March 2015 at 8:44 pm

    After consulting Joyce first, Osborne has phoned Winston to concede

    • rawshark-yeshe 61.1
      28 March 2015 at 8:47 pm

      that is hysterically funny isn’t it !!!

      • Hateatea 61.1.1
        28 March 2015 at 8:49 pm

        I haven’t laughed so much at an election result in the last seven years 😀

        • rawshark-yeshe 61.1.1.1
          28 March 2015 at 8:55 pm

          and have a look at the photo of Paula Bennett on the Stuff website .. more hysterical laughter to come !!!

  62. RedBaronCV 62
    28 March 2015 at 8:45 pm

    98 from 98. 4012

  63. NZSage 63
    28 March 2015 at 9:05 pm

    The 3rd headline in the Herald…. clearly they’re hurting!

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11424725

  64. heather 64
    28 March 2015 at 9:10 pm

    Yes, it looks like a real slap around the ears with a red snapper.
    Will be interesting to see how Key tries to cover up and deflect on the TV on Monday morning.
    There will be much working into the early morning from the PR machine trying to find someone to blame, someone or something to try and take the publics’s attention away from Winston.
    Tuesday in the house will be a wonderful event, shows what working together can do.
    I do so hope Peter Dunn sees what it’s about, but I have a horrible feeling he will be given an extra job and reward to remain loyal.

    • felix 64.1
      28 March 2015 at 9:14 pm

      Someone to blame? That’s easy it’s all Labour’s fault, they cheated and Winston stole OUR seat 😀

      “shows what working together can do”

      +1

  65. felix 65
    28 March 2015 at 9:32 pm

    Hey John we’ll have those bridges and the broadband you promised now kthnxbye.

    • freedom 65.1
      28 March 2015 at 10:45 pm

      and he can tell the country what other promises he held back.
      http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=11424115

      “Mr Key said it had pulled plans for some other promises, but would deliver them after the byelection.” Read on and you see “Some would be in the Budget in May.”
      That does suggest National was ready to use upcoming budget announcements for by election promises, saw the signs and held back.

      Next week, will a single journalist be heard to ask
      “Mr Prime Minister, about the other promises for Northland you mentioned last week?”

      • NZJester 65.1.1
        29 March 2015 at 7:52 am

        That will be Winstons job in parliament to ask the “Mr Prime Minister, about the other promises for Northland you mentioned last week?” question as well as push for all the pork they have already offered.
        If Labour keeps up its previous pressure on National also you are likely to see even more multiple sided attacks on them in the up coming question times chipping away even more of that Teflon coating that Key has relied on in the past.
        If Winston can walk the right line then the Nats might just find Northland lost to them again at the next election also and possibly for some years to come.

        • freedom 65.1.1.1
          29 March 2015 at 1:05 pm

          and dare we hope for clear concise single issue questions where Carter’s [manipulation of his] position as arbiter of reality in the House is constrained.

          • Tracey 65.1.1.1.1
            29 March 2015 at 1:11 pm

            Carter is an abomination. Lockwood was the best Speaker of my lifetime.

            • freedom 65.1.1.1.1.1
              29 March 2015 at 1:54 pm

              Lockwood’s special talent was being a master of the sly re-interpretation of a Minister’s answer when ruling, Carter just let’s them get away with not even bothering to answer and sometimes you are left wondering if he was even in the room 🙁

  66. RedBaronCV 66
    28 March 2015 at 9:36 pm

    “If we say we are going to do something we are bribing them if we don’t do anything we are neglecting them.” Welcome to the world of political criticism – where they have not been before

  67. ianmac 67
    28 March 2015 at 10:23 pm

    Duncan said of Key being in Melbourne, “No PM wants to hug a dead body.”

  68. gnomic 68
    28 March 2015 at 11:31 pm

    The scowling weasel is not looking very happy. Good, unless it intensifies the urge to grind down the underclasses, which is likely to be the case.

    And what the hell is mischaracterisation? This actually seems to be a word found in dictionaries. Could it mean how dare you fail to give credit to our spin, evasions, blatant bribes, and dare I say it, outright lies? And how come the slurring weasel could pronounce it?

    You must have heard the interview in which the weasel said he was keeping his intended bounty for Northland under wraps in case his announcements were ‘mischaracterised’ by the meeja. Bad meeja.

    Alas the country is still in the grasp of an incompetent and dodgy government seemingly forever.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • 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
    12 hours 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
    12 hours 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
    13 hours 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
    18 hours 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
    20 hours ago

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

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

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

  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    3 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    5 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
    5 days ago

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

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

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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

  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
    “China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.   Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-30T17:31:42+00:00