They eat their own

Written By: - Date published: 2:18 pm, March 28th, 2012 - 96 comments
Categories: ACC, national - Tags: , , , ,

ACC denies leaking Bronwyn Pullar’s name. It’s not credible that they would act so high risk and so politically. Boag and Pullar clearly didn’t leak it. So, that leaves Collins and her office. Collins denied leaking the email to the media … but leaves a fair bit of wiggle room, doesn’t it? The tipline is, as they say, running hot – and the name on everyone’s lips is Lusk.

To understand why Collins would give Pullar’s name to Simon Lusk for passing on to the Herald, you need to understand some internal National Party dynamics.

The next National leader will be chosen this term or immediately after the next election. So the jockeying is starting now.

There are several groups of National MPs and money-men that will play a part in the post-Key leadership contest. Among them are Joyce and his allies, Boag and her people (she got Key into Parliament and many junior Nats owe their jobs to her for that), there’s the still powerful brat pack, and Collins’ team.

Collins has built up a little cadre of junior Nat MPs thanks to the efforts of Simon Lusk who runs campaigns (several new National MPs thanked him in their maiden speeches) and, with the help of Cameron Slater, also fixes nomination races by running smear campaigns against rivals of Collins’ proteges. Slater, or more likely it was Lusk ghost-writing, laid this strategy out in the open last year – $10,000 will buy you Lusk/Slater spin on your National Party nomination race. And you saw their handy work in Botany and Rodney, amongst other races. Lusk/Slater/Collins’ tactics are disliked by many in the party, particularly Boag’s faction. So, an opportunity to hurt Boag was always going to appeal to Collins.

The word is that Boag sent the now famous email to Collins with the understanding that it would be kept confidential and not passed to ACC. Sources say that, seeing her chance, Collins not only gave the email to ACC but to Lusk. Slater, or Lusk ghostwriting, almost immediately jumped into the then nascent ACC leak calling for prosecutions although Pullar’s name was not yet in the public arena. Lusk gave the Boag email to Fisher at the Herald, and that’s how Pullar’s name and Boag’s role as her support person became public (you’ll remember in that first article Boag seemed particularly incensed that the email had gotten out – now you know why). Fran O’Sullivan, who also strongly backed Lusk’s Brash coup of ACT, jumped on board with an unusually personal attack on Boag – count her in Collins’ camp too.

Now, we’re told that Collins didn’t mean for the leak to end in Nick Smith’s resignation. Her target was Boag. Smith’s resignation was just gravy. No sooner had he fallen on his sword than Slater/Lusk was promoting Collins’ acolytes Upston and Lotu-Iiga as replacements.

Unfortunately for Collins, Slater has a tendency to turn everything he touches to shit, and his contributions to this affair are one reason why our tip-line has been overflowing with details of how Collins attempted to screw over Boag with the email about Pullar and accidentally took out Smith as well.

The knives are sharpening for Collins over this. She’s a known backstabber but, in taking out the well-liked and experienced Smith as collateral damage in her jockeying for the leadership post-Key she has gone too far. The brat pack is out to get her along the Joyce and Boag factions. Even Nats who don’t know, until now, exactly how Collins leaked and to whom will tell you the obvious – the leak can only have come from her office.

The question now is whether Key acts, or looks weak.

96 comments on “They eat their own ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. burt 1
    28 March 2012 at 2:53 pm

    Now the PM steps in and says; I’m the PM and by definition I can’t leak. – Debate.

    • Blighty 1.1
      28 March 2012 at 2:54 pm

      so, you’re arguing that Collins can’t have leaked Pullar’s information by definition but you’re conceding she gave her name to Lusk?

      • burt 1.1.1
        28 March 2012 at 2:58 pm

        I’m doing noting of the sort, that’s absolutely putting words in my mouth. Lets hope lprent’s not angry today he hates that sort of shit.

        I’m proposing what if the PM says the business of government is whatever government say it is and that he might have been to relaxed in a conversation with media…. but being the PM he can’t leak…

        How the hell did you get to where you got to ?

        [lprent: Diversion on a diversion. Should I just bump the whole thread to OpenMike as being off topic? Nah… Blighty brought it back on topic. You deal with it. 😈

        I have to say that Blighty offers a pretty good explanation (1.1.1.1) about how he got from the post through your unacknowledged quote to his comment. His extrapolation makes about as much sense as your comment did in the context of the post.

        And he did ask if that was what you meant? ]

        • Blighty 1.1.1.1
          28 March 2012 at 3:08 pm

          I’m just trying to take what you’re saying and, you know, apply it to the subject in front of us, which is a leak from Collins’ office.

          You’re quoting Clark who said she couldn’t leak – I’m not sure precisely what she was talking about because the only google hits are Nats talking about it.

          So, naturally, you seem to be wanting to extend the logic of what Clark said to be that no minister can ever leak.

          So you’re saying ‘yes, Collins gave the info to Lusk but that’s not a leak because Clark said ministers can’t leak, nah, nah, nah’

          That’s the only way I can interpret what you’ve said in relation to the topic of the post.

          • Anita 1.1.1.1.1
            28 March 2012 at 7:55 pm

            Blighty,

            This is a good explanation of that quote by Clark.

            The only problem is that I can’t relate it to the topic at hand :-/

        • Inventory2 1.1.1.2
          28 March 2012 at 3:16 pm

          No Burt; lprent only hates it when RWNJ’s put words in people’s mouths…

          [lprent: I look at it whenever I see someone complain or if people do it to an author (the latter is part of the general defence of the site).

          Of course it doesn’t pay to cry wolf too often because that would be wasting my time. If it is unjustified and happens too often then I get irritated. Becomes a matter of luck about how irritated I am at the time. ]

          • insider 1.1.1.2.1
            28 March 2012 at 3:42 pm

            or make accusations without any evidence to back it up. But a post stacked with unreferenced innuendo? GO FOR IT!

            • Dean 1.1.1.2.1.1
              28 March 2012 at 4:02 pm

              it’s not our blog though, is it? We’re guests here. When your mate invites you over, do you demand to be able to sleep with your mate’s wife in his bed?

              • Lanthanide …
                28 March 2012 at 4:48 pm

                That’s not really the right analogy, Dean.

                It’s more like, your mate invites you over to their house because they’re having a party. Once you turn up, they’re polite to everyone who is wearing red clothes, and impolite and rude to everyone who is wearing blue clothes. But the invitation never stated anything about the dress code.

                • lprent …
                  28 March 2012 at 5:39 pm

                  We make no promises about being fair in the sense that most of the blue tinged would view how the rules should operate. This is a very labour movement site. Read the about again.

                  The correct analogy would be that we run a meeting where the rules of behaviour are roughly set in advance and where most of the participants it was intended for are unionists and/or from the left. They have all worked under those limits in the past, tend to work effectively within them, and will cooperate within them while still having a lively argument.

                  Then some people ignorant of the ways of the left and most cooperative techniques amble in with a bit of a grudge and try to run the meeting their way because they can’t see why anyone else should limit what they want to do. But they all have a different way and are just loud and mostly dumb.

                  Needless to say trying to set their own rules doesn’t work too well with the organisers and the chairman starts getting the worst of the idiots ejected until the majority of the people it was intended for can have a say rather than having egotists shouting them down.

                  In other words it isn’t a public party with anyone invited. We don’t mind anyone being here provided they don’t get in the way of the people we set it up for originally. But it means you live with our standards of behaviour because we don’t intend to live with a standard of behaviour of the loudest and most ignorant.

                  Which is why the right sites tend to be different from the left sites. Gotcha of course is probably the most extreme example of that lack of ability to cooperate, and offhand I know of only only one vaguely multi-author right site around (and it has a leavening of lefties there to make it work). Many of the left sites are cooperatives.

                  • Pete George …
                    28 March 2012 at 8:22 pm

                    People also amble in to have a bit of a look and a bit of a debate and get dumped on be a cooperative of commenters who’s aim often seems to be just to harrass people they choose to dislike off the blog. That behaviour appears to be supported at times by the moderators.

                    Yep, it’s your blog, do as you please. Obviously the aim is not to attract as many new commenters as possible with diverse views. It can only be guessed what the various aims are but some seem quite obvious.

                    • vto …
                      28 March 2012 at 8:47 pm

                      Bloody hell you whinge a lot Pete George. When I first came here I pissed off loads of people. They ranted and abused me back and especially honed in becuase they thought I was a white middle class male, who come in for the most abuse – but after a bit of time and an adjustment of behaviour to suit this particular all-night party the ambience isn’t too bad and debates can be had. But you had better have decent arguments to support your position (I can give you some guidance there if you like)

                      But Pete, recently all you do is complain about being abused. You aint abused mate, you are just mildly harassed and in fact I suspect that harassment comes from your arguments and points generally being pretty weak rather than any desire for pure abuse. Sure, your points are your opinion and everyone is entitled to one but I’ll let you in on a secret – not all opinions are equal. Some people’s opinions are pretty crap, being based on knees and jerks and dinner table research and no long term thought.

                      So stop whingeing and put your arguments forward.

                    • felix …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:00 pm

                      And some people amble in with the apparent aim of disrupting discussion from behind a veneer of politeness.

                      Easy to spot, they ask a lot of questions but never, ever answer any.

                      And when they’re exposed they say “Goodness, is that the time? Really must be off” and disappear to start a new line of questioning on another thread.

                    • Pete George …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:05 pm

                      vto – I’ve got no argument with you having a big whinge about whinging.

                      There’s a lot of whinging here don’t you think? Many of the posts are whinges about Key and/or National. And for some variety a whinge about Collins or Brownlee. Or whover the resign of the day is.

                      But now you’ve got that whinge off your chest maybe you could put a good positive argument forward, and show everyone how to break the whinge cycle. Just remember to have those decent arguments ready.

                    • Pete George …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:08 pm

                      felix – you’re presenting yourself as a good example of what you’re talking about?

                    • felix …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:11 pm

                      Oh good, you’re back.

                      The questions from this morning are still waiting, as are the ones from yesterday.

                      Do let me know when you get around to addressing them. I can link to them (again) if you like.

                    • vto …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:11 pm

                      ha ha, good one. I was really getting at your victim mentality.

                      And here is a positive thing – a positive move for the entire nation of four million people would be if its governing lot listened to its people and did what they want around asset sales. That would be an entirely positive thing – if a government, any recent government will do, actually listened to its people. As for the arguments in support – see al recent threads and posts on the subject. I am still waiting for somebody to explain the benefits of selling. out.

                    • Pete George …
                      28 March 2012 at 9:37 pm

                      felix, said “Easy to spot, they ask a lot of questions”.

                      Just before launching into his question thing. Very funny.

                    • felix …
                      28 March 2012 at 10:28 pm

                      Yes that’s very funny Pete.

                      So have you responded yet? Particularly I refer to the ones where you got caught out making incredibly stupid statements about Sue Bradford and then ran away.

                      Much like you did the day before with your incredibly stupid statements about hypocrisy.

                      Or is that all in the past now, no longer relevant in your liquid, plastic, labile world?

                    • Pete George …
                      29 March 2012 at 6:33 am

                      Bradford claimed “which will force sole parents with babies as young as one year out to work.” I think that’s dishonest or ignorant misrepresentation of the aims of the act. And commenters claiming that “we all know” what National are really going to do is pathetic.

                      You don’t like being called on your hypiocrisy, do you. Get over it.

                      You said (below):

                      Of course you don’t like it, they’re on your team. Your nasty, dirty, toxic team.

                      They are not my team. I comment here independently. You are displaying your toxicity, not mine. Whay should I bother checking back where you may have left questions? I think your comments and questions, and manner of addressing, them will be judged by those who read them. Some may think you are a local hit squad. I’d bet others will see you as incessantly hissy too.

                • higherstandard …
                  28 March 2012 at 6:17 pm

                  That’s very good Lath, very good indeed.

                  I’d pretty much given up on this blog lately and after the bitch fest about Cameron Slater et al yesterday – but the occasional gem from the likes of yourself makes it worthwhile visiting now and again.

                  • RedLogix …
                    28 March 2012 at 7:05 pm

                    As a moderator what I really want is an environment where interesting conversations and debates can take place. If you’re bringing something of value to the table you can get away with quite robust debate…and your track record counts. But you have to understand that inherently I judge these things from a left-wing perspective and that isn’t ever going to change.

                    Reading and understanding the Policy will keep things on track most of the time, but then again there are a bunch of tired old tricks we’ve seen over and again that people use to derail a debate when they’ve run out of ideas…. and eventually one of the mods will act to discourage them.

                • felix …
                  28 March 2012 at 6:40 pm

                  Oh fuck, Lanth! He’d nearly given up!

  2. Carol 2
    28 March 2012 at 3:09 pm

    Mallard asked Collins, in suplementary questions today, if she gave the email to Lusk or discussed the contents with Lusk (can’t remember the exact questions, but Lusk was named). Collins said “no” to both questions.

  3. insider 3
    28 March 2012 at 3:12 pm

    “the word” no doubt came from Trevor Mallard… It was of course sheer coincidence Trevor brought up Lusk’s name in QT today a short time after you posted.

    • lprent 3.1
      28 March 2012 at 5:44 pm

      Could also be that is what the rumour mill in Wellington has been rife with for days. Hell I’ve heard it in Auckland and I’m not connected with the beltway at all.

  4. Inventory2 4
    28 March 2012 at 3:15 pm

    Just because Trevor Mallard alleges it, it doesn’t make it so. Mr Mallard seems to have a rather unnatural fixation on Mr Lusk.

    Anyway; shouldn’t you have waited until AFTER Trevor’s speech in the General Debate, which he has yet to make? Otherwise it just looks like in insider hatchet job.

    PS: Lalit Modi 🙂

    • Carol 4.1
      28 March 2012 at 3:26 pm

      Well, right now, in the general debate, Robertson has been talking about Lusk’s role.

  5. Ross 5
    28 March 2012 at 3:18 pm

    Judith Collins apparently printed out a copy of the email. So now we know what happened. Collins printed the email and by some rmearkable coincidence, the Herald reporter broke into Collins’ office in the hope of finding something juicy and happened upon the printed email!

    http://news.msn.co.nz/nationalnews/8442683/acc-minister-printed-leaked-email

    • ianmac 5.1
      28 March 2012 at 3:32 pm

      She said repeatedly that she did not pass on the email to the Media.
      But was she asked did she pass on a printed copy?
      No. So her denial was about emails not paper copies. Tricky eh?

  6. Pascal's bookie 6
    28 March 2012 at 3:19 pm

    loling at the iTwins. Wellie is a small town, if Trevor’s heard stuff, lot’s of people have heard it.

    Anyways http://bit.ly/HiPIQC

    Privacy commissioner wants to do forensics on the computers. What fun.

    • insider 6.1
      28 March 2012 at 3:38 pm

      It is small and it wouldn’t be a surprise if it was talking to itself

    • Ross 6.2
      28 March 2012 at 3:39 pm

      I’m not sure forensics on the computers is going to achieve much. Collins isn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer but I don’t think she’d be that stupid. Besides, she printed off details of the email and God knows who had access to those details.

      • Pascal's bookie 6.2.1
        28 March 2012 at 4:03 pm

        More will be learnt from looking than from not though.

        The commissioner could find out whether or not someone did something really stupid. Or it could be found that no-one Collins sent it to in ACC printed it out, or forwarded it, or copied it.

  7. mickysavage 7
    28 March 2012 at 3:35 pm

    Last night’s debate was fascinating because of the appearance of the dynamic duo Slater and Cactus.  One gets the feeling that Slater is on the receiving end of some fairly severe responses from friends of the brat pack.

    National is starting to implode.  This is great fun to watch. 

    • deuto 7.1
      28 March 2012 at 3:42 pm

      +1 on both points. Re last night’s debate, it was intriguing to see the slithering and sliding, and the answers to your questions particularly once Lusk’s name arose. The dots are starting to join up.

      Wonder whether Key will come back instead of enjoying his holiday in Paris?

      • taxicab 7.1.1
        28 March 2012 at 3:53 pm

        Shonkey Gonkey is now going to grace us with his presence next week . The question is whether the chicken shit will dare to be present during question time . Clearly the vultures are circling . No doubt the now slightly postponed holiday with the family in Europe will be to discuss the exit strategy to Hawaii .

        • deuto 7.1.1.1
          28 March 2012 at 3:58 pm

          I had been wondering whether the exit strategy was on the agenda well before the events of the last week and today! Ever hopeful but the alternatives are not looking great!

      • Jim Nald 7.1.2
        28 March 2012 at 3:55 pm

        Key must have been a great supporter of Monday-ising some of our holidays seeing how enthusiastically he is holiday-ising the odd few minutes he should be putting into turning up in the House for parliamentary question time?

    • Pete George 7.2
      28 March 2012 at 3:53 pm

      I don’t think it’s “great fun to watch”.

      Parliament is supposd to be the cream of democracy running the country. I think it’s very sad to see how so many keep trying to push as many others onto the track as possible in the hope they will cause a train wreck. Too bad about the good of the country/

      It’s a real shame when the dirty deeds of politics take precedence (and sadly pride of place for some) over decent governance.

      • felix 7.2.1
        28 March 2012 at 4:01 pm

        Of course you don’t like it, they’re on your team. Your nasty, dirty, toxic team.

        The more of you that push each other onto the tracks, the better.

        • Pete George 7.2.1.1
          28 March 2012 at 4:15 pm

          I don’t like it when whoever does it to whom. I didn’t like the overhyped furores when they happened to Labour either. I’ve had more arguments about speeeding and painting than I’ve had arguments with you.

          “Your nasty, dirty, toxic team.” That”s a nasty dirty comment. Part of the whole toxic mess our politics sometimes descends to. It’s disgraceful really.

          And it’s this sort of disgraceful behaviour that turns many people of participating in politics. So we keep ending up with our highest offices overwhelmed by political thuggery.

          It’s like a baying crowd watching someone getting kicked to death in an alleyway. Our ‘civilised’ society is often far from civilised.

          • Rich 7.2.1.1.1
            28 March 2012 at 4:21 pm

            Politics would be better if a few MPs had ideals rather than just being willing to join any government that lets them have an associate minister warrant (with associated limo and free air travel).

            Like the MP for deluded outer Wellington suburbia, for instance.

          • felix 7.2.1.1.2
            28 March 2012 at 4:24 pm

            Ah that’s right, the “Calling me nasty is very nasty of you” gambit.

            You never did get around to answering those questions the other day, did you? (‘Goodness is that the time? I really must be off!’)

            Fancy a crack at them now? http://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-27032012/comment-page-1/#comment-451585

            Take your time.

          • alex 7.2.1.1.3
            28 March 2012 at 5:32 pm

            I think you should try and see the opportunity in this PG. National is imploding, which means people who vote for good hair will move away from Key and instead go for someone with the best hair of all…

          • Colonial Viper 7.2.1.1.4
            28 March 2012 at 7:23 pm

            It’s like a baying crowd watching someone getting kicked to death in an alleyway. Our ‘civilised’ society is often far from civilised.

            LOL

            PG is all for civilised government, civilised politics and civil politicians!!!

            PG can you point to a time that actually happened? Nixon’s day? Napolean’s day? Caesar’s day?

          • RedLogix 7.2.1.1.5
            28 March 2012 at 7:33 pm

            I actually agree with your basic sentiment PG. This kind of politics doesn’t appeal anymore to me than it does you.

            Yet if National was running a principled and ethical government they would either not have gotten into this mess in the first place, OR in the event someone had fallen short of the standard… they would come clean and step down until an investigation and natural justice had taken its course.

            Failing that the Opposition has little recourse than to put the heat on… and sadly that gets ugly.

            • Pete George 7.2.1.1.5.1
              28 March 2012 at 8:04 pm

              And I agree with what you’re saying here too. The two large parties are the biggest culprits both in government and in opposition. The standard of parliament (and MP behaviour) is pitiful at times, and that’s what really annoys a lot of people outside political circles.

              But just despairing and letting the cycle continue isn’t going to change anything. Politicians themselves are going to do little to change bad habits and bad practices. Some would like to – I’ve had a reasonable amount of respect for the intentions of Clark, Key and now Shearer, but as Shearer is finding out now, criticisng “Gotcha” is virtually ignored even by his own.

              The only way of pressuring them for change is from outside politics, by threatening them with vote losses. The challenge there is nudging enough people out of apathy to make a difference. Many of the wider public deal with politicians like they deal with the weather, they moan plenty about them but don’t do anything to stop being dumped on.

              But it’s worth exploring ways to change. I know I’ll change few minds here, that’s not the main purpose of being here, it’s to learn what we’re dealing with.

      • muzza 7.2.2
        28 March 2012 at 4:10 pm

        “I don’t think it’s “great fun to watch”. – Of course it’s not for you Pete, you are part of the sytem, albeit only a fluffer. The system is broken, and this is what we all pay for curently. As long as those in the system do not server their country, this is the inevitable result!

        “Parliament is supposd to be the cream of democracy running the country. I think it’s very sad to see how so many keep trying to push as many others onto the track as possible in the hope they will cause a train wreck. Too bad about the good of the country” – You really are deluded, was that a lame attempt to fluff your boss? Look at the state of those who crave the control of others, they are pushed into the postions they are in, and do not deserve to be there. Until NZ’ers redress this, then it can only decline further, and that is a very ugly thought!

        “It’s a real shame when the dirty deeds of politics take precedence (and sadly pride of place for some) over decent governance.” – Is it time for an afternoon nap Pete, as that comment was of a tired old man, who has just realised his career in political fluffing has amounted to nothing more than a reality check!

        • Pete George 7.2.2.1
          28 March 2012 at 8:13 pm

          I’m not part of the system, and I’m not in it to fluff. It was never going to be a quick and easy thing to achieve any change in.

          I often get flak because I’m prepared to challenge status quo thinking in various forums. I’m from outside the system. People who feel they have long earned their status on ther inside tend to resent new voices.

          That’s one reason Shearer was not readily accepted as Labour leader. If he’s strong enough to not get dragged down into business as usual he could yet make a real difference.

          We don’t need a new system, we just need to change attitudes about how to best use the system, from within and from the outside.

          If half the time and effort that went into negative politics was turned to positive, we would have major change for the better (of the country and it’s people) – and still leave plenty of space for robust contests.

      • Pascal's bookie 7.2.3
        28 March 2012 at 4:13 pm

        Parliament is supposd to be the cream of democracy running the country.

        sez who?

        • Pete George 7.2.3.1
          28 March 2012 at 4:17 pm

          If we want a decent democracy and a decent country.

          • Pascal's bookie 7.2.3.1.1
            28 March 2012 at 4:24 pm

            So when and where has such a decent democracy and country existed?

            Who gets to decide who the cream is?

            Sounds more like romantic idealised notions of aristocracy than democracy to me.

          • Dean 7.2.3.1.2
            28 March 2012 at 4:34 pm

            In a decent country, Peter Dunne wouldn’t supply the crucial vote to give the government a one-seat majority to sell state assets against the wishes of the vast majority of New Zealanders.

            In a decent country.

          • newsense 7.2.3.1.3
            28 March 2012 at 6:05 pm

            should be out campaigning harder and leaving the wasting our lives on blogs to the fools then Pete

          • Jackal 7.2.3.1.4
            28 March 2012 at 7:07 pm

            It’s about accountability.

            Pointing out the disgusting manoeuvres undertaken by Nact MP’s and their lackeys is required to ensure accountability, and highlighting cases where the rules are breached must occur to ensure a viable political system. Any damage to the political system is entirely the fault of those abusing our democracy for their own ends.

            If you truly believe in a decent democracy Pete George, you would not support the current government who have proven themselves unworthy of their positions. It’s obvious that they don’t have the best interest of our country and it’s people as a priority. They are in fact self serving narcissistic back stabbing capitalist running dogs… creaming our so-called democracy for their own benefit.

            National have no comprehension of what morals, honour and accountability stand for… it’s a vague notion that does not register in their befuddled and bigoted minds. To quote Nick Smith, they should do us all a favour by throwing themselves under a train.

            Muzza is absolutely correct when he/she says New Zealander’s must address the problem… and presently the National led government is the problem.

  8. Jim Nald 8
    28 March 2012 at 3:49 pm

    “The question now is whether Key acts, or looks weak.”

    How about ….. John attempts a sideshow with new buffoonery.

    Quickly covering his shrug and scowl with a quick smile, he announces he has assembled a new karaoke cabinet for Question Time and a new anthem for his government …..

    Split Nats

    singing*

    Six months in a leaKey boat

    *dissonant or off-Key, of course

    🙂

  9. the pink postman 9
    28 March 2012 at 3:58 pm

    Great stuff Micky S. Marvelous to see Tories wriggling like the worms they are. Do you think they are going to last three years . Mind you the money bags in Aotearoa will be demanding that this closes down , but it could be too late now.Lets watch with pleasure .

  10. the pink postman 10
    28 March 2012 at 3:58 pm

    Great stuff Micky S. Marvelous to see Tories wriggling like the worms they are. Do you think they are going to last three years . Mind you the money bags in Aotearoa will be demanding that this closes down , but it could be too late now.Lets watch with pleasure .

  11. aerobubble 11
    28 March 2012 at 4:02 pm

    MSD, with the help of benefitaries, can provide the taxpayer savings by given over their personal information and accepting money to amelirate the poverty goals of tax payers. This saves billions in blight, ghettos, diseases, social and physical. And as we are seeing the leaks of benefitaries and ACC clients information, that government cannot be trusted with the information, either in using to end poverty or in stopping others who should not be privy to information gathered by MSD. Think for a moment that citizens have the right to withdraw from welfare and the effect if many were to, are we not already seeing false and misleading who have failed to track and understand the numbers now migranting overseas. Given that in order for the economy to grow a price on personal information is essential, and National are protecting the open theft of information leaking to clouds that they undervalue.
    Sicken would the word used by a free democracy, when given tax payers demand that poverty, social ills are removed, only then to find that lowlifes National ministers grandstand over the money as if those accepting it were giving nothing in return. Accepting money for the service of allowing government to collect information, and spending it properly as is the wish of taxpayers to allievate their poverty, is no different than witnesses in court, or juries, told they should ignore the benefit they get from the small pittence they receive, as they are bludgers?
    The good civic order of our society is paid for by even the unpaid citizen on a benefit who routinely live lawful lives and help the state keep disease, keep crime down, keep communities civil, and this is even before the unpaided work they do just by passing on true information to government and accepting a pittiful benefit 40%? of the weekly wage. It may well help MSD remembering that they need citizens to show up at their offices, or they would not have a jobs and would have to work far hard and bridging trust with poor communities (as can be seen in third world countries who riot, who make no go areas, where fecaes fester on the side of the road is not a one off happy camper event but common practice).

    bennett say she values benefitaries, they can work, but does she really value their contribution, how can she when she gets it so wrong.

    • Hami Shearlie 11.1
      28 March 2012 at 10:28 pm

      Peseta Sam Lotu Iiga(known in our house as Sam Ligature LOL) used the word “burden” today in Parliament in reference to beneficiaries. Really? What should we call the recipients of taxpayers money for the South Canterbury Finance payout? What should we call visitors who use our hospitals and don’t pay? Why are beneficiaries labelled as a burden? What about retired MP’s who move into jobs provided by their parliamentary cronies and on top get superannuation generously contributed to by the taxpayer with taxpayer funded flights for their vacation every year? Doug Graham, remember how he crowed about taking it all from the taxpayer? Who is really the burden here? Every person with a child at school or uni, every person who has entered a hospital or doctors clinic, all are beneficiaries of taxpayer dollars being spent on them! People on super cost much more than beneficiaries so why are they exempt from being called a “burden” on society? What about all the voluntary work done by beneficiaries? And why are women told they shouldn’t “breed” while on the DPB (Maggie Barry today in Parliament). Doesn’t a man usually have to be involved in some way too? The fathers are often invisible and so escape the wrath! At least the mothers are actually looking after their children.

      • North 11.1.1
        28 March 2012 at 11:48 pm

        Hami Shearlie…….is that truly what Maggie Marigold said today……..bennies shouldn’t be breeding ?

        What a dirty minded thing she is………this fascination with the damp, cheap duveted, polyester sheeted bedrooms of South Auckland (not being Clevedon) ?

        No more puke-making I guess than her response to the question….”Maggie……why are you standing for Parliament ?”

        “Well (patronising smile to the little TV hack), I believe I have something to offer…….”.

        Right………a nothing-arse self promoter planted in whatever Auckland based minister’s BMW on the way to Wellington Airport round 4.30 most Fridays. “Hah Hah Hah Hah Hah…….”

        God Save Us From Jolly Gal Wannabees Turned Vicious For The Dear Leader !

  12. bad12 12
    28 March 2012 at 4:14 pm

    Smith went spilling crocodile tears in resignation over His wee indiscretions as Minister, We dare say that should Slippery Key force Crusher Collins to walk it, the plank that is, Collins will go spilling the blood of the present Government as She does,

    Slippery resides in damned if He does and damned if He dont land with what to do about Her so He wont, its as sure as hell though that the Slippery one aint exactly got a lot of confidence in His Minister if He has to ask Her twice if She has taken to peeing outside of the tent,

    The damage done though either from action or inaction should have Slippery digging in the closet for His best New York bankers suit to send off for a good dry cleaning…

  13. Carol 13
    28 March 2012 at 4:20 pm

    Whoa! Go, Andrew (Little)!

    The video from today’s general debate to look for when it comes online! A tour de force on the shabby little government we now have got and all the stench coming from the ACC issue… and all the questions it raises.

    • Puddleglum 13.2
      28 March 2012 at 7:16 pm

      Yes, that was very impressive.

      Andrew Little had a clarity of purpose and grasp of the ethical dimensions. No qualifications or ambivalence in the rhetoric – reminded me of Rodney Hide’s speech on the surveillance bill (was it?).

      The real scandal, as he identified, was that these internecine machinations of National Party personnel and ‘apparatchiks’ will inevitably be interfering with the work of ACC – certainly at upper management levels. 

      • Hami Shearlie 13.2.1
        28 March 2012 at 10:11 pm

        Hekia would no doubt think that an “apparatchik” is a young woman terribly interested in fashion! And people actually suggested she could be the Nats next leader if Collins implodes? I lolled long and loud when I read that!

        • Colonial Viper 13.2.1.1
          29 March 2012 at 12:14 am

          Hekia is plenty smart; it won’t do to underestimate her or her supporters.

          • Hami Shearlie 13.2.1.1.1
            29 March 2012 at 11:12 am

            Agreed CV, smart and really shallow – a female Key perhaps! No substance there, but able to blind everyone with the overwhitened teeth perhaps?

  14. Rich 14
    28 March 2012 at 4:23 pm

    The amount of infighting in National, you’d think they got some coaching from Labour. Maybe at one of their little inter-party discussion groups…

  15. starlight 15
    28 March 2012 at 4:35 pm

    The 53.000 that have left nz for a ‘brighter future’ obviously not contained in bennetts figures,
    is bennett saying none of those were on some sort of benefit,she claims that approx 6000 or
    so have gone off the unemployment benefit and into work,when she excitedly says in parliament that she is working hard to get them into work,no ms bennett,they have gone to aussie for a ‘brighter future’because national are taking ‘a brighter future’ for themselves.
    The rat traps are poised and waiting for the acc debacle to head in their direction,the rats
    will scatter in all directions but the odds are there will be some that will be caught.
    If there was a large container for the paper work associated with the rorts,the lies,the
    corruption,the back room deals,the sweet heart deals,then that container would surely
    sink in no time at all.
    The privacy review,which i predicted would happen,will curtail and suppress freedom
    of speech in nz,that will be a guarantee,in the light of the tea pot tapes.
    The only hope for democracy in nz is if all the rats are trapped in the rat trap.

  16. ianmac 16
    28 March 2012 at 5:37 pm

    Hasn’t a recent Act meant that journalists can be forced to disclose their sources? Ironic or what!

  17. Treetop 17
    28 March 2012 at 6:39 pm

    Collins would not of been aware of Smith breaching the cabinet manual as I doubt Boag raised Smith in the email to Collins. When Smith being connected to Pullar was discovered by Key, Key seemed to dismiss Smith breaching cabinet rules as he did not even stand him down.

    Whoever leaked the email did not realise that Smith would be collateral damage. ACC would have known that Smith breached the cabinet manual, so I do not think that ACC was the source of breaching Pullars privacy regarding Boags email.

  18. Reagan Cline 18
    28 March 2012 at 6:59 pm

    Aerobubble, have I understood you correctly ? Beneficiaries contribute by helping “maintain good civic order of our society”, by enabling others to work in paid jobs in the MSD and by forming a group of people in poverty that can make available to Government information useful in formulating policies that aim to alleviate that poverty ?
    Do you think beneficiaries in New Zealand would be better off without benefits (forget for the moment the MSD employees and Government information gatherers) ?
    If beneficiaries thought they would be better off without a benefit, they would surely, as you suggest, not accept the benefit. But what alternative do they have at the moment ?
    It boils down to your getting a paying job to cover your expenses or you go on a benefit.
    The New Zealand Labour Party needs to put forward a programme that will provide adequately payed jobs for all, tell people about it and ask to be voted in at the next election.

    • aerobubble 18.1
      29 March 2012 at 10:17 am

      Basically its historical, poverty was understood to be a blight, ghettos, disease vectors that began in incubated weaken poor immune systems would lay waste to the gentified. Governments in order to save money from the collateral damage (that we can still see in third world countries) realized that businesses would actually do better if there were more customers, bureaucrats would get jobs, as Adam Smith pointed out the poor still made choices, with more more making choices (because they have a benefit) they would contribute to the growth of a free market and diminish the effects of the class system. As we move into the information age, and the needs of capialists to exchange value, the value of information becomes more pronounced, and needs to be protected, like any property right needs to be before a free market can be produced. Now its note worthy that benefitaries have worked, and the welfare system rewards them with lowered risk when they are laid off, they don’t lose their homes, they can use the time to retrain, and as we enter the information economy we need to have much more flexibility between up time and down time, so employees even in work can access benefits to help them retrain, My point is that the myopic view of welfare, that benefitaries contribute nothing, despite them having had jobs and paid for others to be on welfare, despite having saved and pay taxes while getting a benefit thus cross subsiding those who spent all their savings, a tsunami of denial of facts about citizens who happen to find their circumstances at odds with the sanctimonious sainted louses of the right wing looking to tax employees by removing a safety net and increase the pressure to lower wages. As we are all told we should be raise medium wages.

      So to sum up, its a fraud on us when the lousy government declare benefitaries are no good, in fact they provide a wealth of information to government that government could be using to prevent many of the social malaise caused by poverty. But its easier to kick the weak than to kick the managers of society into actively creating jobs, into actively sacking unnecessarily employment of middle class social parasitical managers. As we all know people who can make a living peeling off the souls and spirits of benefitaries love the National party, and why would they, attacks on the weakest in society by some formally who were weak. Look everyone and anyone can become ministers of the crown and millionarie PM, yes, we all can. No, fact is we don’t live in a Randian utopia, when the super human minister can be replayed easily, there is no essential super human ability to fawn over.

      We need an honest debate, we need Ministers with morals and ethics who realize that beatup on on the weakest in society actually is a personal risk, they start to justified leaking information about the poor worthless scum all bludgers to a man and solo mum. Well we know how that turns out, the thugs are investugated by the privacy commissioner and have to say sorry, even fall on their swords and lose their job. So actually, if politicians stop taking the low road, they might actually not look like such shallow arses.

      We need to give citizens the wealth from their own information, and shifting for example the information into the giant database of Google is the opposite of good governance. How are we to trade information when we give it away. Like that gold mine who pay no royaleties.

      As for the notion that jobs just appear without the consent of a lawful civic populace, that’s just absurd, we cannot produce a free market without socialists pushing for a level playing field, history shows this, when we didn’t have socialists we have class stratification and royals. Only when the monopolies of the church, and landed gentry were removed did we get efficiency gains. So it follows that we have to be vigilent less we reintroduce a invisible aristocracy, as we fail to tax the rich, who use their wealth to push politicians to kick the poorest and pander to the lowest commonness.

      yes we need jobs and its as easy as lowering working hours, and taxing the vast wealth of NZ properly. We have such a high currency because we’ve sold our productive core to foriegn absent landlords and are being turned into a serf class in our own land, by our own governemtn.

  19. Tamati 19
    28 March 2012 at 10:21 pm

    Phew, what a nightmare!

    As a mere part-time political geek the ACC-Smith-Pullar-Boag-Collins-Lusk-Joyce scandal is getting a little too hot to handle!

    Too many names, too many accusations, too many denials!

    Would someone on the know, perhaps on Standard editorial like to to produce a flow diagram of sorts? Just like a simple mind map showing who is in bed with who, and who is accusing who of what. Too many names for a single article, if it was done graphically it might be easier for the average person to understand.

    We also need to come up with an appropriate portmanteau to refer to this case. Something snappy that the media can pick up, and obviously ending in gate.

    Any suggestions?

    Boagate? Natagate?

  20. bad12 20
    28 March 2012 at 11:58 pm

    It would appear that the Herald on Sunday gained its information on Fullar from a well known political commentator with connections on high with various factions from within the Party,

    We know who garnered the 30 pieces of silver from the destruction of the former Minister,s career, and, just what the hell that particular individual was masquerading as a fully functioning Minister of the Crown future anthropologists will likely have much to ponder over, us mere mortals however can but breathe a sigh of relief and have a quiet laugh at the demise (for the moment at least) of something that we seen as a reasonably ugly blight upon our political landscape,

    We tho digress,Collins in the House today gave emphatic answers of NO to any and all questions over Her involvement in the contents of Boag,s email finding its way into the hands of the Herald on Sunday,

    Perhaps Trev and others asking the questions of Crusher havnt quite got the tangent quite on target, it might be more profitable to ask the ”latest” ACC Minister if the 1 hard copy She apparently had cause to make of this email didnt happen to find itself climbing the tiers of power to the 9th floor,

    Crusher didnt make that 1 hard copy for no reason,in fact into who,s sticky wee paws that copy of that email was passed from where we sit would give every appearance of having as a next stop the sticky wee fingers of a well known political commentator with connections on high with various factions of the Party…

    • Carol 20.1
      29 March 2012 at 6:56 am

      Though it now looks like Collins could be off the hook:

      http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/6655745/ACC-worker-re-viewed-leaked-Smith-letter

      The letter that led to Nick Smith’s Cabinet resignation was repeatedly viewed by an ACC case worker a week before it was leaked to media – and three times on the day before it first appeared in a newspaper.

      The ACC staffer who reread the letter was previously Bronwyn Pullar’s case manager.

      The case manager – Jo Parker-Dennis – was taken off Ms Pullar’s case six months ago, at Ms Pullar’s request, after clashes over how her compensation claim was being handled.

      • Pascal's bookie 20.1.1
        29 March 2012 at 7:46 am

        not the same letter I think. that’s the email to ACC from Pullar with Smith’s letter attached.

        Collins is suspected of leaking the Boag letter

        • Carol 20.1.1.1
          29 March 2012 at 8:27 am

          Thanks. Though if I’m confused between the letters, it is good spin to the wider population.

  21. North 21
    29 March 2012 at 12:14 am

    In default of something better (and giving Nick Smith due credit), how about “Lettergate” ?

    Prescient of “Litigate” perhaps ?

    I’m talking excitedly of Wellington District Court Criminal List here of course. Not your dry as civil suit. Which one of those hubristic mongrels wouldn’t richly deserve it ?

    Talking excitement I’m dying to see JuhnKey eventually front up in the House. What are the odds he mincingly shuffles in wrapped in a kimono he picked up in Seoul ?

    The master Crosby Textor distraction plan…….

  22. james 111 22
    29 March 2012 at 8:18 am

    Even I have to admit if some thing smells as bad as this.Normally there is some shite hanging round some where. Collins may have hung herself it doesnt add up that she would not have known who it was who released the emails

  23. KATY 23
    29 March 2012 at 9:30 am

    This link from Tv3 yesterday.

    http://www.3news.co.nz/ACC-Minister-printed-leaked-email/tabid/1607/articleID/248388/Default.aspx

    In particular,

    However Ms Collins’ office revealed today to RadioLive that she had printed a copy of the email.

    Asked repeatedly to confirm whether she printed the email, Ms Collins refused to answer questions, saying: “Look, I’ve made it very clear that there was no leak from my office on this matter.

    “There has been an email, the email was copied in my office when we came back into the office because we were in recess when it [was received],” she said.

    Ms Collins would not elaborate on what she meant by “copied”.

    She said the Privacy Commission inquiry, to be carried out by former Australian Federal Privacy Commissioner Malcolm Crompton, may involve the forensic examination of computers.

    So, we have collins office saying that she (Collins) printed a copy of the email but we also have Collins refusing to confirm or deny that it was printed, but admitting that it was copied in her office.
    The thing is though a printed copy would be mutch more difficult to trace than a electronic one and stop a computer forensic examination dead in its tracks.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Determining the Engine Type in Your Car
    Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    17 mins ago

  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    17 mins ago

  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    17 mins ago

  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    17 mins ago

  • Who Makes Mazda Cars?
    Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    17 mins ago

  • How Often to Replace Your Car Battery A Comprehensive Guide
    Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    18 mins ago

  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
    In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the Rule If you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    18 mins ago

  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
    Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    18 mins ago

  • What Are Struts on a Car?
    Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    18 mins ago

  • What Does Car Registration Look Like: A Comprehensive Guide
    Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    20 mins ago

  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
    Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
    In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
    Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
    Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
    Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
    Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
    Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 hours ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    5 hours ago

  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
    In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    5 hours ago

  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
    A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    5 hours ago

  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    “You talking about me?”  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    Bowalley Road
    7 hours ago

  • A crisis of ambition
    Roger Partridge  writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    7 hours ago

  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
    Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    8 hours ago

  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
    Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    8 hours ago

  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    9 hours ago

  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    13 hours ago

  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
    Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
    The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    15 hours ago

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

  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    21 hours ago

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

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

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

  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago

  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago

  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Jack Vowles: Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  The data is from February this ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • 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
    11 hours ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has made further appointments to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand as part of a continued effort to ensure the Scott Base Redevelopment project is delivered in a cost-effective and efficient manner.  The Minister has appointed Neville Harris as a new member of the Board. Mr ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Finance Minister travels to Washington DC
    Finance Minister Nicola Willis will travel to the United States on Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Five Finance Ministers group, with counterparts from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.  “I am looking forward to meeting with our Five Finance partners on how we can work ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords
    The coalition Government has today announced purrfect and pawsitive changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to give tenants with pets greater choice when looking for a rental property, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “Pets are important members of many Kiwi families. It’s estimated that around 64 per cent of New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Long Tunnel for SH1 Wellington being considered
    State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the Government has also asked NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to consider and provide advice on a Long Tunnel option, Transport Minister Simeon Brown ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • New Zealand condemns Iranian strikes
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have condemned Iran’s shocking and illegal strikes against Israel.    “These attacks are a major challenge to peace and stability in a region already under enormous pressure," Mr Luxon says.    "We are deeply concerned that miscalculation on any side could ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Huge interest in Government’s infrastructure plans
    Hundreds of people in little over a week have turned out in Northland to hear Regional Development Minister Shane Jones speak about plans for boosting the regional economy through infrastructure. About 200 people from the infrastructure and associated sectors attended an event headlined by Mr Jones in Whangarei today. Last ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Health Minister thanks outgoing Health New Zealand Chair
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has today thanked outgoing Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Chair Dame Karen Poutasi for her service on the Board.   “Dame Karen tendered her resignation as Chair and as a member of the Board today,” says Dr Reti.  “I have asked her to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Roads of National Significance planning underway
    The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has signalled their proposed delivery approach for the Government’s 15 Roads of National Significance (RoNS), with the release of the State Highway Investment Proposal (SHIP) today, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.  “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Navigating an unstable global environment
    New Zealand is renewing its connections with a world facing urgent challenges by pursuing an active, energetic foreign policy, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “Our country faces the most unstable global environment in decades,” Mr Peters says at the conclusion of two weeks of engagements in Egypt, Europe and the United States.    “We cannot afford to sit back in splendid ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ welcomes Australian Governor-General
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced the Australian Governor-General, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley and his wife Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, will make a State visit to New Zealand from Tuesday 16 April to Thursday 18 April. The visit reciprocates the State visit of former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pseudoephedrine back on shelves for Winter
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced that Medsafe has approved 11 cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pharmaceutical suppliers have indicated they may be able to supply the first products in June. “This is much earlier than the original expectation of medicines being available by 2025. The Government recognised ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ and the US: an ever closer partnership
    New Zealand and the United States have recommitted to their strategic partnership in Washington DC today, pledging to work ever more closely together in support of shared values and interests, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.    “The strategic environment that New Zealand and the United States face is considerably more ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Joint US and NZ declaration
    April 11, 2024 Joint Declaration by United States Secretary of State the Honorable Antony J. Blinken and New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs the Right Honourable Winston Peters We met today in Washington, D.C. to recommit to the historic partnership between our two countries and the principles that underpin it—rule ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-20T07:35:18+00:00