Uffindel’s new allegation
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Date published: 8:08 am, August 10th, 2022 - 120 comments
Categories: Christopher Luxon, national, same old national
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Radio New Zealand has published new allegations of bullying by National MP Sam Uffindell this time by a female flatmate who flatted with Uffindell while at University.
Daily review 10/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 10th, 2022 - 24 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Open mike 10/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 10th, 2022 - 112 comments
Open mike is your post. For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Step up to the mike …
Daily review 09/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 9th, 2022 - 14 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Was This The Change We Needed?
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Date published: 1:07 pm, August 9th, 2022 - 11 comments
Crises that profoundly test a small developed state like New Zealand have required huge growth in state strength and policy power. But was it the change we needed?
Open mike 09/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 9th, 2022 - 72 comments
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National’s culture problem
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Date published: 9:14 pm, August 8th, 2022 - 133 comments
National MP Sam Uffindell has today been engaged in a media wide mea culpa after allegations that he bullied a young student and was expelled from Kings College have been publicised.
Daily review 08/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 8th, 2022 - 62 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Open mike 08/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 8th, 2022 - 118 comments
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National tries to blame Labour for National’s tax flip flop flip
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Date published: 10:25 am, August 7th, 2022 - 13 comments
Chris Bishop has accused Labour of engaging in dirty politics for pointing out that this week National has changed its policy on income tax indexation twice.
Open mike 07/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 7th, 2022 - 90 comments
Open mike is your post. For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Step up to the mike …
Open mike 06/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 6th, 2022 - 107 comments
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Daily review 05/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 5th, 2022 - 15 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Socialist economic views on current inflation
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Date published: 9:07 am, August 5th, 2022 - 56 comments
Energy costs, supply line issues, worker rights.
Open mike 05/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 5th, 2022 - 37 comments
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Daily review 04/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 4th, 2022 - 23 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Luxon’s latest gaffes
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Date published: 9:48 am, August 4th, 2022 - 57 comments
Hot on his confusion of Hawaii with Te Puke Christopher Luxon’s has dropped a couple of new clangers by admitting then denying that National will not increase health funding at least by the rate of inflation and then by displaying his class prejudice by saying people are not going to get rich on welfare.
National’s weird take on the Government’s Climate Adaption Plan
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Date published: 9:05 am, August 4th, 2022 - 7 comments
The Government’s release of the National Adaption Plan to deal with climate change has been met by National with an insistence that who should pay for potentially hundreds of billions of costs should have already been identified.
Should therapists and counsellors speak about the medicalisation of gender non-conforming children?
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Date published: 6:05 am, August 4th, 2022 - 48 comments
Is there a connection between the closure of the Tavistock Gender Identity Development Service in the UK, and a conference being held 12,000 miles away in Nelson, Aotearoa?
Open mike 04/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 4th, 2022 - 57 comments
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Daily review 03/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 3rd, 2022 - 12 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
What New Zealanders are thinking about climate change
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Date published: 9:13 am, August 3rd, 2022 - 29 comments
A new Ipsos poll has some good news.
Chris Bishop supports AND opposes vaccine mandates
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Date published: 8:28 am, August 3rd, 2022 - 51 comments
Remember when National’s Chris Bishop thought that Labour was not being staunch enough of mandates? He now thinks that Labour is being too staunch.
Open mike 03/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 3rd, 2022 - 84 comments
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Daily review 02/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 2nd, 2022 - 42 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Open mike 02/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 2nd, 2022 - 99 comments
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Why stick more fingers in the donations dyke?
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Date published: 9:50 pm, August 1st, 2022 - 13 comments
The latest attempt to construct a sensible political donations regime will likely again prove to be full of holes. Going back to basics would be much better. The good news is that the basics were comprehensively assessed 36 years ago by the 1986 Royal Commission on Electoral Reform. It recommended state funding.
Daily review 01/08/2022
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Date published: 5:30 pm, August 1st, 2022 - 27 comments
Daily review is also your post. This provides Standardistas the opportunity to review events of the day. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Don’t forget to be kind to each other …
Political donations law needs reform
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Date published: 2:44 pm, August 1st, 2022 - 7 comments
Judge Jagose’s decision to acquit two persons linked to New Zealand First charged with obtaining control over $750,000 has opened up rather large holes in the obligations of political parties to report donations.
Poverty is a political choice, why are Labour choosing it?
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Date published: 1:30 pm, August 1st, 2022 - 53 comments
Labour announced earlier in the year that it would give a $350 cash transfer to all New Zealanders earning less than $70,000.
Except beneficiaries.
Open mike 01/08/2022
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Date published: 6:00 am, August 1st, 2022 - 130 comments
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- Party of bulliesBack in June Sam Uffindell was elected to parliament in the Tauranga by-election. Turns out he's a bully who beat a kid with a bed-leg at school: The National Party’s newest MP, Sam Uffindell, was asked to leave his exclusive boarding school after viciously beating a younger student late ...2 days ago
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- We need a windfall taxNew Zealand companies are using their oligopolistic market power to gouge mega profits, driving up inflation. Overseas, such actions have resulted in windfall taxes, which have been used both to drive down inflation, and ameliorate its impacts (while driving down emissions). With New Zealand petrol companies pocketing record margins and ...2 weeks ago
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- Supporting more Kiwis into jobs
We’re helping more Kiwis into work, to help support whānau, grow our skilled workforce and secure our economy for future generations. During our time in Government, we’ve delivered record low unemployment rates, as well as a steady fall in the number of New Zealanders receiving a main benefit, and we’re ...8 hours ago - Bottom trawling on all seamounts must stop
The Green Party once again calls on the Government to ban bottom trawling on all seamounts following the release of an industry white paper on so-called ‘sustainable’ trawling. ...14 hours ago - Time to transform care and support for disabled peopleUrgent reform is essential to ensure disabled people have equal access to the care and support they need, the Green Party says in response to a new report that challenges politicians to fix the current system. ...18 hours ago
- Three strikes law gone but not forgotten for manyThe repeal of the archaic three strikes law is welcome but it doesn’t go far enough, the Green Party says. ...1 day ago
- Better long-term planning needed for COVIDCOVID-19 is here to stay and so the Government needs to put in place long-term protection measures, including mandatory ventilation standards, the Green Party says. ...1 day ago
- Abuse revelations leave no choice but to overhaul RSE schemeThe Green Party is calling on the Government to overhaul the Recognised Seasonal Employers scheme in the wake of revelations of shocking human rights violations. ...2 days ago
- Decent work, not sanctionsThe Green Party is calling for a cross-party commitment to guaranteeing at least a living wage and safe working conditions to people seeking employment, instead of continuing benefit sanctions. ...2 days ago
- Member’s bill adds to growing demands on Govt to stop deep sea miningThe Green Party is once again calling on the Government to announce its support for a moratorium on deep sea mining, and to support a member’s bill going to select committee. ...6 days ago
- Let’s build better, warmer, and climate-friendlyThe Government must take steps to ensure that the way we build our homes is helping to meet New Zealand’s climate change targets, the Green Party said. ...7 days ago
- Mana in Mahi must guarantee liveable incomesThe Government’s employment initiatives led by the Ministry of Social Development must guarantee liveable incomes and fair working conditions, the Green Party says. ...7 days ago
- Time to strike anti-Pacific racism from New Zealand lawA Green Party member’s bill launched today would strike an anti-Pacific racist law from the country’s books and help heal the wrongs of the past. ...7 days ago
- More nurses, doctors and health workersNew Zealanders deserve a health system that works for everyone, no matter who you are or where you live. Our Government has a plan to make this a reality, and we’re taking the next steps. We now have thousands more health professionals, such as doctors and nurses, working in New ...1 week ago
- Green Party welcomes new report critiquing OT Oversight billThe Green Party once again calls on the Government to withdraw its Oversight of Oranga Tamariki Bill. ...1 week ago
- 15 times Jacinda Ardern has shown she’s a true leaderDuring her time as Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern has navigated New Zealand through unprecedented times. Through it all, she’s become known as someone who leads with kindness, compassion and strength, while keeping the wellbeing of Kiwis at the heart of her approach. To celebrate five years of Jacinda leading the ...1 week ago
- Govt must wipe debt to MSD as part of ‘cost of living’ responseThe Government needs to clear the debt that MSD has forced hundreds of thousands of low income people to take on, says the Green Party. ...1 week ago
- Easing the pressure on New ZealandersSince taking office in 2017, our Government has worked hard to lift wages and make life more affordable for New Zealanders, as we move forward with our plan to grow a secure economy for all. ...2 weeks ago
- NZ First Foundation loophole must be closed at select committeeThe Government must use the opportunity of the Electoral Amendment Bill in Parliament to close the loophole in the political donations regime, the Green Party says. ...2 weeks ago
- Wider scope for birth injuries bill celebratedThanks to political pressure from the Green Party and the more than 900 personal stories of birth injury and trauma delivered to Minister Sepuloni, more injuries have been added to the ACC birth injuries bill. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens back taihoa call on Oranga Tamariki billThe Green Party will be voting against the Oranga Tamariki oversight bill as it comes up for second reading in Parliament today. ...2 weeks ago
- “A real game-changer” – how we’re supporting KiwisSupporting New Zealanders is at the heart of our approach as a Government, and we’re working hard to tackle the big issues Kiwis are facing. While long term challenges like child poverty won’t be solved overnight, we’re putting in place policies that make a real difference for New Zealanders. Here ...2 weeks ago
- Delegates at the Green Party AGM have voted to re-open nominations for Co-leaderDelegates at the AGM of the Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand have voted to retain Marama Davidson as Green Party co-leader and to re-open nominations for the other co-leader position. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt boosts tourism transformation to strengthen workforce and improve outcomes
The Tourism Industry Transformation Plan outlines key actions to improve the sector This includes a Tourism and Hospitality Accord to set employment standards Developing cultural competency within the workforce Improving the education and training system for tourism Equipping business owners and operators with better tools and enabling better work ...12 hours ago - NZ earns another major digital investmentMinister for the Digital Economy and Communications Dr David Clark welcomes Google Cloud’s decision to make New Zealand a cloud region. “This is another major vote of confidence for New Zealand’s growing digital sector, and our economic recovery from COVID 19,” David Clark said. “Becoming a cloud region will mean ...15 hours ago
- Changes to NCEA & University Entrance in response to COVID-19 disruptionsA package of changes to NCEA and University Entrance announced today recognise the impact COVID-19 has had on senior secondary students’ assessment towards NCEA in 2022, says Associate Minister of Education Jan Tinetti. “We have heard from schools how significant absences of students and teachers, as a result of COVID-19, ...17 hours ago
- 60th Anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship between Aotearoa New Zealand and Samoa- “Lifelong Fri...Te Reo Māori tauparapara… Tapatapa tū ki te Rangi! Ki te Whei-ao! Ki te Ao-mārama Tihei mauri ora! Stand at the edge of the universe! of the spiritual world! of the physical world! It is the breath of creation Formal acknowledgments… [Your Highness Afioga Tuimalealiifano Vaaletoa Sualauvi II and Masiofo] ...17 hours ago
- New law passed to reduce gun harmThe Government’s commitment to combatting firearms violence has reached another significant milestone today with the passage of the Firearms Prohibition Order Legislation Bill, Police Minister Chris Hipkins says. The new law helps to reduce firearm-related crime by targeting possession, use, or carriage of firearms by people whose actions and behaviours ...1 day ago
- Minister sends condolences as last Battle for Crete veteran passes awayMinister for Veterans, Hon Meka Whaitiri sends her condolences to the last Battle for Crete veteran. “I am saddened today to learn of the passing of Cyril Henry Robinson known as Brant Robinson, who is believed to be the last surviving New Zealand veteran of the Battle for Crete, Meka ...1 day ago
- Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill passes third readingLegislation to repeal the ‘Three Strikes’ law has passed its third reading in Parliament. “The Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill ends an anomaly in New Zealand’s justice system that dictates what sentence judges must hand down irrespective of relevant factors,” Justice Minister Kiri Allan said. “The three strikes law was ...1 day ago
- Government working on preliminary steps to improve support for abuse survivorsWork is under way on preliminary steps to improve the Government’s support for survivors of abuse in care while a new, independent redress system is designed, Public Service Minister Chris Hipkins says. These steps – recommended by the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry – include rapid payments for ...1 day ago
- Remarks upon 77th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima and NagasakiRemembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki Online Forum 77 years ago today, an atomic bomb was dropped on the city of Nagasaki. Three days earlier, on the 6th of August 1945, the same fate had befallen the people of Hiroshima. Tens of thousands died instantly. In the years that followed 340,000 ...2 days ago
- Govt signs NZ–USA agreement launching new opportunities for space sectorAn agreement signed today between the New Zealand and United States governments will provide new opportunities for our space sector and closer collaboration with NASA, Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash said. Stuart Nash signed the Framework Agreement with United States Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman. The signing ...2 days ago
- Govt strengthens emergency management cooperation between NZ and the USAn agreement signed today between New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the United States’ Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will strengthen global emergency management capability, says Minister for Emergency Management Kieran McAnulty. “The Government is committed to continually strengthening our emergency management system, and this Memorandum of Cooperation ...2 days ago
- New Zealand to stay at Orange as winter continuesNew Zealand will remain at the Orange traffic light setting, while hospitalisations remain elevated and pressure on the health system continues through winter. “There’s still significant pressure on hospitals from winter illnesses, so our current measures have an ongoing role to play in reducing the number of COVID-19 cases and ...2 days ago
- Path paved for communities to reshape streetsStreets will soon be able to be transformed from unsafe and inaccessible corridors to vibrant places for all transport modes thanks to new legislation proposed today, announced Transport Minister Michael Wood. “We need to make it safe, quicker and more attractive for people to walk, ride and take public transport ...2 days ago
- Boost for agricultural and horticultural science in schoolsMore young minds eyeing food and fibre careers is the aim of new Government support for agricultural and horticultural science teachers in secondary schools, Agriculture and Rural Communities Minister Damien O’Connor announced today. The Government is committing $1.6 million over five years to the initiative through the Ministry for Primary ...2 days ago
- Bumper breeding season boosts Kākāpō populationKākāpō numbers have increased from 197 to 252 in the 2022 breeding season, and there are now more of the endangered parrots than there have been for almost 50 years, Conservation Minister Poto Williams announced today. The flightless, nocturnal parrot is a taonga of Ngāi Tahu and a species unique ...2 days ago
- Relationship with Malaysia to be elevated to Strategic PartnershipThe relationship between Aotearoa New Zealand and Malaysia is to be elevated to the status of a Strategic Partnership, to open up opportunities for greater co-operation and connections in areas like regional security and economic development. Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta met her Malaysian counterpart Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah today during a ...2 days ago
- Call for New Zealanders to get on-board with rail safetyWith additional trains operating across the network, powered by the Government’s investment in rail, there is need for a renewed focus on rail safety, Transport Minister Michael Wood emphasised at the launch of Rail Safety Week 2022. “Over the last five years the Government has invested significantly to improve level ...3 days ago
- Regional approach the focus at ASEAN and East Asia Summit talksThe Foreign Minister has wrapped up a series of meetings with Indo-Pacific partners in Cambodia which reinforced the need for the region to work collectively to deal with security and economic challenges. Nanaia Mahuta travelled to Phnom Penh for a bilateral meeting between ASEAN foreign ministers and Aotearoa New Zealand, ...3 days ago
- The beat goes on as Government renews support for musiciansExtension of Aotearoa Touring Programme supporting domestic musicians The Programme has supported more than 1,700 shows and over 250 artists New Zealand Music Commission estimates that around 200,000 Kiwis have been able to attend shows as a result of the programme The Government is hitting a high note, with ...5 days ago
- Minister of Defence to attend Guadalcanal Commemorations in the Solomon IslandsMinister of Defence Peeni Henare will depart tomorrow for Solomon Islands to attend events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal. While in Solomon Islands, Minister Henare will also meet with Solomon Islands Minister of National Security, Correctional Services and Police Anthony Veke to continue cooperation on security ...6 days ago
- New programme to provide insights into regenerative dairy farming The Government is partnering with Ngāi Tahu Farming Limited and Ngāi Tūāhuriri on a whole-farm scale study in North Canterbury to validate the science of regenerative farming, Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor announced today. The programme aims to scientifically evaluate the financial, social and environmental differences between regenerative and conventional practices. ...6 days ago
- More women on public boards than ever before52.5% of people on public boards are women Greatest ever percentage of women Improved collection of ethnicity data “Women’s representation on public sector boards and committees is now 52.5 percent, the highest ever level. The facts prove that diverse boards bring a wider range of knowledge, expertise and skill. ...6 days ago
- Awards support Pacific womenI am honoured to support the 2022 Women in Governance Awards, celebrating governance leaders, directors, change-makers, and rising stars in the community, said Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio. For the second consecutive year, MPP is proudly sponsoring the Pacific Governance Leader category, recognising Pacific women in governance and presented to ...6 days ago
- Govt investment into Whakatāne regeneration reaches new milestonesToday Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash turned the sod for the new Whakatāne Commercial Boat Harbour, cut the ribbon for the revitalised Whakatāne Wharf, and inspected work underway to develop the old Whakatāne Army Hall into a visitor centre, all of which are part of the $36.8 million ...7 days ago
- Government determined to get a better deal for consumersNew Zealanders are not getting a fair deal on some key residential building supplies and while the Government has already driven improvements in the sector, a Commerce Commission review finds that changes are needed to make it more competitive. “New Zealand is facing the same global cost of living and ...7 days ago
- Government exceeds Mana in Mahi targetMana in Mahi reaches a milestone surpassing 5,000 participants 75 per cent of participants who had been on a benefit for two or more years haven’t gone back onto a benefit 89 per cent who have a training pathway are working towards a qualification at NZQA level 3 or ...7 days ago
- Government opens new research and innovation hubThe Government has invested $7.7 million in a research innovation hub which was officially opened today by Minister of Research, Science and Innovation Dr Ayesha Verrall. The new facility named Te Pā Harakeke Flexible Labs comprises 560 square metres of new laboratory space for research staff and is based at ...1 week ago
- Unemployment remains low and wages rise despite volatile global environmentUnemployment has remained near record lows thanks to the Government’s economic plan to support households and businesses through the challenging global environment, resulting in more people in work and wages rising. Stats NZ figures show the unemployment rate was 3.3 percent in the June quarter, with 96,000 people classed out ...1 week ago
- First ever climate adaptation plan lays foundations for resilient communitiesAction to address the risks identified in the 2020 climate change risk assessment, protecting lives, livelihoods, homes, businesses and infrastructure A joined up approach that will support community-based adaptation with national policies and legislation Providing all New Zealanders with information about local climate risks via a new online data ...1 week ago
- New mental health and addiction services making a difference for MāoriMāori with mental health and addiction challenges have easier access to care thanks to twenty-nine Kaupapa Māori primary mental health and addiction services across Aotearoa, Associate Minister of Health Peeni Henare says. “Labour is the first government to take mental health seriously for all New Zealanders. We know that Māori ...1 week ago
- Data and Statistics Bill Passes its Third ReadingA Bill which updates New Zealand’s statistics legislation for the 21st century has passed its third and final reading today, Minister of Statistics David Clark said. The Data and Statistics Act replaces the Statistics Act, which has been in effect since 1975. “In the last few decades, national data and ...1 week ago
- Further moves to improve the lives of disabled peopleThe Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill has passed its first reading in Parliament today, marking a significant milestone to improve the lives of disabled people. “The Bill aims to address accessibility barriers that prevent disabled people, tāngata whaikaha and their whānau, and others with accessibility needs from living independently,” said ...1 week ago
- Speech to the China Business SummitKia ora koutou, da jia hao It’s great to be back at this year’s China Business Summit. I would first like to acknowledge Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister Helen Clark, His Excellency Ambassador Wang Xiaolong, and parliamentary colleagues both current and former the Right Honourable Winston Peters, the ...1 week ago
- Further changes to CCCFA Regulations will improve safe access to creditNarrowing the expenses considered by lenders Relaxing the assumptions that lenders were required to make about credit cards and buy-now pay-later schemes. Helping make debt refinancing or debt consolidation more accessible if appropriate for borrowers The Government is clarifying the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance (CCCFA) Regulations, to ensure ...1 week ago
- Government prioritises firearm prohibition orders to reduce gun harmThe Firearms Prohibition Order Legislation Bill will be passed through all remaining stages by the end of next week, Police Minister Chris Hipkins said. The Justice Select Committee has received public feedback and finalised its report more quickly than planned. It reported back to the House on Friday. “The Bill will ...1 week ago
- National plan to protect kauri commencesThe Government has stepped up activity to protect kauri, with a National Pest Management Plan (NPMP) coming into effect today, Biosecurity Minister Damien O'Connor and Associate Environment Minister James Shaw said. “We have a duty to ensure this magnificent species endures for future generations and also for the health of ...1 week ago
- Support for Samoa’s Climate Change Plan and rebuild of Savalalo MarketPrime Minister Ardern met with members of Samoa’s Cabinet in Apia, today, announcing the launch of a new climate change partnership and confirming support for the rebuild of the capital’s main market, on the occasion of the 60th Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between Aotearoa New ...1 week ago
- Reconnecting with ASEAN and MalaysiaForeign Minister Nanaia Mahuta departs for the Indo-Pacific region today for talks on security and economic issues at meetings of ASEAN and the East Asia Summit in Cambodia, and during bilateral engagements in Malaysia. “Engaging in person with our regional partners is a key part of our reconnecting strategy as ...1 week ago
- Statement to the 2022 Review Conference for the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear WeaponsUnited Nations Headquarters, New York City Thank you, Mr President. Ngā mihi ki a koutou. I extend my warm congratulations to you and assure you of the full cooperation of the New Zealand delegation. I will get right to it. In spite of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the nuclear ...1 week ago
- 10,000 more permanent public homes added under the Labour GovernmentA major milestone of 10,037 additional public homes has been achieved since Labour came into office, the Housing Minister Dr Megan Woods confirmed today. “It’s extremely satisfying and a testament to our commitment to providing a safety net for people who need public housing, that we have delivered these warm, ...1 week ago
- Amnesty, Civicus condemn Fiji spelling mistake contempt lawsuit as ‘violation’
Pacific Media Watch newsdesk Amnesty International and Civicus have called on the Fiji government to drop contempt of court charges against a lawyer in Fiji for exercising his right to freedom of expression. On 27 June 2022, Fiji’s Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum filed charges for contempt of court against senior lawyer ...3 hours ago - Uffindell scandal a true test for Luxon's leadership skills
Opinion - The accusations against MP Sam Uffindell are showing National leader Christopher Luxon that driving a strong team culture doesn't just mean just celebrating the wins, but also dealing with the difficult situations fairly and decisively. ...4 hours ago - Bryce Edwards’ Political Roundup: Is Tauranga headed towards yet another by-election?Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards. Political Roundup: Is Tauranga headed towards yet another by-election? Political scientist, Dr Bryce Edwards. If National causes yet another by-election to be held in Tauranga, not only will it cost the taxpayers another unnecessary $1m for the taxpayers after Simon Bridges called it quits earlier in ...5 hours ago
- NDIS participants are left waiting for too long in hospital beds due to bureaucratic delaysSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Di Winkler, Adjunct Associate Professor, La Trobe University Shutterstock Eighteen months ago, a Melbourne woman named Leila had a stroke and went to a local hospital. After medical support over a few weeks, Leila was ready to be discharged from ...6 hours ago
- [email protected] Thurs Buchanan + Manning: The Path Ahead For Taiwan China Asia Pacific Nations and the U...A View from Afar – In this podcast, political scientist Paul Buchanan and Selwyn Manning will analyse hostilities and the pathway ahead for Taiwan, China, Asia Pacific nations and the United States of America. Buchanan and Manning will examine why hostilities have intensified, what defence and pre-emptive security moves ...6 hours ago
- Sam Uffindell: From boarding school to political scandalTimeline - National's new MP for Tauranga has been suspended from the caucus over accusations of bullying and violence. ...7 hours ago
- What’s causing Australia’s egg shortage? A shift to free-range and short winter daysSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Flavio Macau, Associate Dean – School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University Klaus Nielsen/Pexels , CC BY-SA Australia is experiencing a national egg shortage. Prices are rising and supermarket stocks are patchy. Some cafes are reportedly serving breakfast with ...7 hours ago
- Olivia Newton-John gave a voice to those with cancer and shifted the focus to the life of survivorsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Broom, Professor of Sociology & Director, Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies, The University of Sydney., University of Sydney Since news of Olivia Newton-John’s death this week, many have paid tribute to her character, humble nature and cultural significance. She also ...8 hours ago
- Who’s holding back electric cars in Australia? We’ve long known the answer – and it’s time t...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Quiggin, Professor, School of Economics, The University of Queensland Paul Miller/AAP New analysis this week found strong fuel efficiency standards would have saved Australia A$5.9 billion in fuel costs and emissions equal to a year’s worth of domestic flights ...8 hours ago
- Olivier Newton-John gave a voice to those with cancer and shifted the focus to the life of survivorsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alex Broom, Professor of Sociology & Director, Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies, The University of Sydney., University of Sydney Since news of Olivia Newton-John’s death this week, many have paid tribute to her character, humble nature and cultural significance. She also ...9 hours ago
- Part of the Japanese revolution in fashion, Issey Miyake changed the way we saw, wore and made fashi...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter McNeil, Distinguished Professor of Design History, UTS, University of Technology Sydney Throughout his career, Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake, who has died of cancer at 84, rejected terms like “fashion”. But his work allowed much of the world to reimagine ...9 hours ago
- Keith Rankin Essay – Public Health Watch: Where Does Michael Baker get his Facts from?Analysis by Keith Rankin. Keith Rankin, trained as an economic historian, is a retired lecturer in Economics and Statistics. He lives in Auckland, New Zealand. This morning, RNZ played the following story: Health stats show 87 people have died in their homes from Covid-19 since March, which references New Zealand’s ...10 hours ago
- Swarbrick frustrated by Deputy PM not backing alcohol harm minimisation billGreen Party MP Chlöe Swarbrick says she is frustrated that her bill to ban alcohol sponsorship in sports is not receiving the backing of the government, despite the presence of overwhelming evidence. ...10 hours ago
- Marape continues his leadership in PNG with unanimous majorityBy Gorethy Kenneth of the PNG Post-Courier in Port Moresby In a historic first, the Papua New Guinea Parliament has installed Pangu Pati leader and Tari-Pori MP James Marape by a unanimous majority as the country’s ninth Prime Minister. Immediately, in his address to the House and streamed live to ...11 hours ago
- Journalism training and development vital for better Fiji elections reportingBy Geraldine Panapasa, editor-in-chief of Wansolwara News in Suva Addressing the training development deficit in the Fiji media industry can stem journalist attrition and improve coverage of election reporting in the country, says University of the South Pacific journalism coordinator Dr Shailendra Singh. Speaking during last week’s launch of the National ...11 hours ago
- McAnulty mentions the important role played by indigenous people in emergency response and recovery ...
Buzz from the Beehive Some ministers commemorated historical events in the latest press statements from the Beehive while others pointed to New Zealand’s role in the space age and to technological developments around the digital economy and data storage in the cloud. Three statements were related to events in the ...11 hours ago - How complex is your life? Computer scientists found a way to measure itSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Karlo Doroc, PhD Candidate in Decision Science, Centre for Brain, Mind and Markets, The University of Melbourne Unsplash/Susan Q Yin Nobel laureate economist Richard Thaler famously quipped: People aren’t dumb, the world is hard. Indeed, we routinely ...11 hours ago
- New Workshops Helping Students Become Climate Ready From Their Classrooms
Flexible workshops designed to help students understand the impacts of climate change, and how they can make a difference Keep New Zealand Beautiful, an iconic not-for-profit organisation that this year celebrates its 55 year milestone, has today launched ...11 hours ago - Coming To The Defence Of Our Defence Force“Numbers are dropping in the New Zealand Defence Force as personnel are faced with poor pay, poor dwellings, and poor leadership from the Minister,” says ACT’s Defence spokesperson Dr James McDowall. “NZDF is experiencing increasing attrition ...12 hours ago
- Government reveals plan to make tourism a more appealing career optionThe Tourism Minister has unveiled a vision of how to strengthen the tourism and hospitality workforces and improve conditions. ...12 hours ago
- Luxon says staffer knew of Sam Uffindell red flags but did not inform himChristopher Luxon says member of his staff was told about the red flags around candidate Sam Uffindell during the campaign for the Tauranga by-election ...12 hours ago
- Luxon says staffer knew of red flags regarding Sam Uffindell but did not inform himChristopher Luxon says a member of his staff was told about the red flags around candidate Sam Uffindell during the campaign for the Tauranga by-election. ...12 hours ago
- Southern conifers: meet this vast group of ancient trees with mysteries still unsolvedSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne Huon pine in Tasmania Shutterstock When you think of “conifers”, tall, conical shaped trees often found in public parks or front yards may spring to mind. But ...12 hours ago
- Urgent Letter To Select Committee To Save 65,000 SubmissionsThe New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union has written to the Finance and Expenditure Committee on behalf of the more than 65,000 New Zealanders who took the time to submit on the Water Services Entities Bill (Three Waters) through our submission tool. “We learnt ...12 hours ago
- National Party president admits selection process could be improvedThe National Party's new president has admitted its candidate selection process could be improved, after its Tauranga MP Sam Uffindell was suspended over bullying allegations. ...13 hours ago
- US would have conversations with New Zealand if time comes for others to join AUKUS – top dipl...A top US diplomat says New Zealand could eventually become a member of the AUKUS defence alliance, highlighting the country's strategic importance. ...15 hours ago
- Uffindell allegations taken 'seriously' – Luxon awaiting investigation resultsNational Party leader Christopher Luxon says work has already been done to reset the culture within the party and in improving its candidate selection process. ...16 hours ago
- Government Doubles Down On SNA Backdown“James Shaw has doubled down on his Government’s assurance that existing land use will continue on Significant Natural Areas (SNAs),” says ACT’s Primary Industries spokesperson Mark Cameron. “Responding to written parliamentary questions from ...16 hours ago
- Workbridge Urges Disabled Community To Take Charge Of Its Own FutureTo celebrate 90 years of supporting disabled people into employment opportunities, Workbridge has launched a new book, Taking Charge: The Story of Workbridge. Workbridge has a proud history as an independent disability-owned and led organisation, delivering ...16 hours ago
- Predator Free Hero Sets His Sights On Wellington MayoraltyKelvin Hastie – best known for starting New Zealand's first predator free community – has announced that he will run for the mayor of Wellington. "What we need now is unity," says Hastie, something that he ignited in the community when ...17 hours ago
- How ‘fast’ politics has left the NSW government staring into the electoral abyssSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andy Marks, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Strategy, Government and Alliances, Western Sydney University The 1973 Watergate Committee hearings ran for 51 days. The televised revelations drew a huge audience. The pressure built with slow, devastating intensity, devouring then US President Richard Nixon’s agenda, eventually ...18 hours ago
- Thinking about freezing your eggs to have a baby later? Here are 3 numbers to help you decideSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Karin Hammarberg, Senior Research Fellow, Global and Women’s Health, School of Public Health & Preventive Medicine, Monash University Jeffery Erhunse/Unsplash Egg freezing is promoted as an empowering option for women who want to stop the biological clock and improve their ...18 hours ago
- ‘Unacceptable costs’: savanna burning under Australia’s carbon credit scheme is harming human ...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Penelope Jones, Research Fellow in Environmental Health, University of Tasmania Shutterstock Savanna burning projects in northern Australia provide economic benefits to Indigenous communities and claim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. But our research suggests smoke from these projects is ...18 hours ago
- How can you support kids with ADHD to learn? Parents said these 3 things helpSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Sciberras, Associate Professor, Deakin University Simeon Frank/Unsplash COVID lockdowns and home schooling seemed never-ending for a lot of families. But there were some silver linings. Our new research published in two papers looked at children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ...18 hours ago
- Never made, destroyed, in a locked safe for 100 years: with Batgirl cancelled, here are 5 other film...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sian Mitchell, Lecturer, Film, Television and Animation, Deakin University Warner Bros Batgirl has become the latest film to be added to a growing list of movies we will never get to see. The US$90 million film had been shot and ...18 hours ago
- NZ children face a ‘perfect storm’ of dangerous diseases as immunisation rates fallSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anna Howe, Research Fellow, University of Auckland Getty Images Routine childhood immunisations have dropped so dramatically globally during the COVID-19 pandemic that the World Health Organization and UNICEF are raising the alarm. Internationally, 25 million children in 2021 alone ...19 hours ago
- Sam Uffendell Should Be Sacked And A New Election Held At Nationals ExpenseSam Uffendell should resign or be sacked and a new election held at National's expense. The NZ Outdoors & Freedom Party demand the National Party sack newly elected Sam Uffendell and pay for a new election giving the people of Tauranga a fair vote ...20 hours ago
- Statement From Sam Uffindell MPWhen I was a student at Otago I enjoyed a student lifestyle, which included drinking and, at times, smoking marijuana. While in second year a number of flatmates fell out – and two of the flatmates left midway through the year. I reject any accusation ...20 hours ago
- National MP Sam Uffindell stood down from caucus while more allegations investigatedNational MP Sam Uffindell has been stood down from the party's caucus while an investigation is carried out into further allegations of bullying raised by RNZ. ...1 day ago
- Marape has the numbers to keep PNG’s top post as prime ministerAsia Pacific Report newsdesk Papua New Guinea’s incumbent leader, James Marape, has been returned to the top job as the country’s ninth prime minister, reports the ABC’s Port Moresby correspondent Natalie Whiting. “Marape was voted in as prime minister unopposed, with unanimous support from all MPs present in the first ...1 day ago
- Māori and Pacific students ‘battle racism and tokenism’ at universityRNZ News New research details the extent of racism, othering and tokenism faced by Māori and Pacific postgraduate students in Aotearoa New Zealand. The paper, published in the Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand, was based off responses of 43 Māori and Pacific students in science, technology, engineering, ...1 day ago
- Pacific takes impressive Games haul of 13 medals in BirminghamRNZ Pacific Pacific athletes have won a total of 13 medals at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, split among six nations. Samoa won the region’s only gold, through weightlifter Don Opolenge and the nation’s lifters also won three silver medals. They also gained a silver in boxing. Fiji won four ...1 day ago
- Parliament passes bill giving courts power to ban criminals from using or accessing firearmsParliament has unanimously passed a bill giving courts the power to ban criminals from using or accessing fireams. ...1 day ago
- Firearms Prohibition Order Legislation Bill passes third reading in ParliamentParliament has unanimously passed a bill giving courts the power to ban criminals from using or accessing fireams. ...1 day ago
- Government preparing apology, new redress system for abuse survivorsOfficials will start working on a national apology to survivors of abuse in care later this year. ...1 day ago
- Three waters criticism part of the process, minister saysThe Auditor-General's submission on three waters legislation is a "constructive suggestion", the minister says, and a normal part of the Parliamentary process. ...1 day ago
- The polls look promising for the Nats and ACT – but it’s too soon for them to be counting on an ...
The latest political polling shows the centre-right parties pulling ahead of the centre-left—but it may be too soon for the leaders of the National and ACT parties to be thinking they will be forming the next government. The mood of the country has seldom been as dark, chastened as it ...1 day ago - Former National Party secretary says he asked Jami-Lee Ross for donor info multiple timesA former secretary of the National Party says he repeatedly asked then MP Jami-Lee Ross to provide information about the individual donors behind one large donation to the party but the information was not forthcoming. ...1 day ago
- Three lessons Olivia Newton-John taught me about music – and lifeSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Encarnacao, Musician, lecturer, Western Sydney University Photo by Roger Allston/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images My default mental image of Olivia Newton-John is from the mid-1970s: long, flowing floral dresses; long, centre-parted light brown hair; big inquisitive eyes; and, when called ...1 day ago
- As the FBI raids Mar-A-Lago, Donald Trump reaches for unconvincing historical parallelsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rodney Tiffen, Emeritus Professor, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney Police direct traffic outside an entrance to Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate after the former president said the FBI was conducting a search. Terry Renna/AP “These are dark times ...1 day ago
- A new Australian supercomputer has already delivered a stunning supernova remnant picSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wasim Raja, Research scientist, CSIRO CSIRO ASKAP Science Data Processing/Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre, Author provided Within 24 hours of accessing the first stage of Australia’s newest supercomputing system, researchers have processed a series of radio telescope observations, including a highly ...1 day ago
- Watch: Party People talk Uffindell, pollsParty People is joined by former National MP Paul Quinn to discuss the Sam Uffindell controversy, the National Party conference, and the latest 1 News / Kantar political poll. ...1 day ago
- Tauranga unfazed by Uffindell's bullying revelationsSam Uffindell's constituents in Tauranga appear largely ready to forgive and forget after the revelations of their MP's past as a self-confessed high school bully. ...1 day ago
- Parliament repeals three strikes lawThe government has passed its bill repealing the three strikes law, which automatically hands maximum sentences to criminals who commit three serious crimes. Justice Minister Kiri Allan says serious and repeat offenders will still be held to account. ...1 day ago
- iRobot’s Roomba will soon be owned by Amazon, which raises privacy questionsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Haskell-Dowland, Professor of Cyber Security Practice, Edith Cowan University stocker193/Shutterstock Less than two weeks after the announcement of its acquisition of US healthcare company One Medical, Amazon is continuing its expansion with a US$1.7 billion offer for iRobot, the ...1 day ago
- Today’s Google outage was brief but disconcertingSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Haskell-Dowland, Professor of Cyber Security Practice, Edith Cowan University Earlier today, reports began emerging Google was down.While it has since returned, it once again highlights our dependence on technology service providers and shows how reliant many people ...1 day ago
- Monkeypox can be transmitted to babies during and after pregnancy. We should be watchful but not ala...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Angela Brown, Midwifery Program Director , University of South Australia Shutterstock So far, there have been 57 confirmed and probable cases of monkeypox reported by Australian authorities. In July, the Australian government issued a health alert for monkeypox as ...1 day ago- Once the fish factories and ‘kidneys’ of colder seas, Australia’s decimated shellfish reefs ar...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dominic McAfee, Postdoctoral researcher, marine ecology, University of Adelaide Author provided Australia once had vast oyster and mussel reefs, which anchored marine ecosystems and provided a key food source for coastal First Nations people. But after colonisation, Europeans harvested them for ...1 day ago- Australia has been crying out for a national housing plan, and new council is a big step towards hav...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emma Baker, Professor of Housing Research, University of Adelaide The federal government’s confirmation on Monday that it will set up a National Housing Supply and Affordability Council has not received much media or public attention. But, dollar for dollar, it might be ...1 day ago- Winston Peters: Challenge To Willie Jackson To Debate His Co-governance Diatribe
Yesterday Maori Development Minister Willie Jackson decided to write an opinion piece in the NZHerald that tries to justify the Labour Party’s push for apartheid in our country via co-governance. The fact that Willie loudly announced that New ...1 day ago- Pop icon Olivia Newton-John was the rare performer whose career flourished through different phases
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Strong, Associate professor, Music Industry, RMIT University Olivia Newton-John was a versatile artist with an appeal that spanned generations, and who played an important role in claiming a space for Australian popular culture on the world stage. She was the ...1 day ago- Luxon backs Uffindell, but says attack should have been made public
National Party leader Christopher Luxon is standing by his MP for Tauranga, but says the assault of a smaller boy at boarding school should have been made public. ...1 day ago- Indigenous people with disabilities face racism and ableism. What’s needed is action not another r...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Gilroy, ARC Research Fellow in Indigenous Health, Disability and Community Development, University of Sydney Shutterstock The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability continues. Its terms of reference acknowledge “the particular situation of Aboriginal ...1 day ago- Marshall Islands loses ‘covid-free’ status with 6 cases confirmed
By Giff Johnson, editor of the Marshall Islands Journal in Majuro The Marshall Islands lost its covid-free status yesterday when tests confirmed six positive cases in the capital, the first known community transmission since the pandemic started in early 2020. It was not immediately clear the source of the covid-19 ...1 day ago- Philippine police arrest ex-VP social justice candidate Bello for cyber libel
By Jairo Bolledo of Rappler in Manila Former Philippines vice-presidential candidate and Laban ng Masa chairperson Walden Bello has been arrested for two counts of alleged cyber libel by the police. Bello, 76, is a globally renowned environmental and social justice activist and academic. Bello’s arrest yesterday was confirmed by ...1 day ago- Hope for women in PNG elections – Peter becomes lone female governor
By Gorethy Kenneth of the PNG Post-Courier in Port Moresby If there is a glimmer of hope in Papua New Guinea’s violence marred national general elections, then it has to be the elevation of a lone woman to the National Parliament. It took the People’s National Congress (PNC) Governor-elect of ...1 day ago- Noumea protesters demand action on domestic violence after woman is killed
RNZ Pacific About 100 people have marched in the New Caledonian capital of Noumea to protest against what they see as government inaction to curb violence against women. The rally was called by the group Women in Anger just days after the latest killing of a woman at the hands ...1 day ago- Japanese sailor stabbed during Guadalcanal remembrance event
RNZ Pacific A Japanese sailor has been stabbed at Bloody Ridge in Solomon Islands during a World War II remembrance ceremony in Honiara. Witnesses say the man, who was part of the Japanese Navy media team, was stabbed in the neck with a pair of scissors. Bloody Ridge community chief ...1 day ago- Scrap or reform Fiji’s media law, says new elections report
By Rusiate Baleilevuka of Fijivillage in Suva “We need to scrap or reform the Media Industry Development Act.” This is one of the key recommendations in the National Media Reporting of the 2018 Fijian General Elections Report. Co-author and University of the South Pacific (USP) journalism coordinator, Associate Professor Shailendra ...1 day ago- Explainer: how neoliberalism became an insult in Australian politics
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney Dan Himbrechts/AAP The much-debated term “neoliberalism” again entered the political debate last week, with Greens leader Adam Bandt using a National Press Club speech to decry neoliberalism ...2 days ago- Petition Asking To Expel Ambassador Of Russian Federation To Be Presented To NZ Parliament
Petition requesting that Parliament urge the Government to expel the ambassador of the Russian Federation and sever diplomatic relations with Russia will be submitted 11 August, 1.30pm for presenting by Dr Gaurav Sharma MP to NZ House of Representatives. ...2 days ago- When it comes to “good news”, Damien O’Connor is a dab hand at milking the Sustainable Food an...
Buzz from the Beehive Our Foreign Affairs Minister has announced the relationship between New Zealand and Malaysia is to be elevated to the status of a Strategic Partnership, the Minister of Conservation is clucking about the growth in kākāpō numbers in the 2022 breeding season, the Covid Response Minister has ...2 days ago- Racism, exclusion and tokenism: how Māori and Pacific science graduates are still marginalised at u...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tara McAllister, Research Fellow, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Getty Images Given most New Zealand universities have goals for increasing Māori and Pacific student and staff numbers, we need to ask why their numbers still remain stubbornly ...2 days ago- Backyard hens’ eggs contain 40 times more lead on average than shop eggs, research finds
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Patrick Taylor, Chief Environmental Scientist, EPA Victoria; Honorary Professor, Macquarie University Shutterstock There’s nothing like the fresh eggs from your own hens, the more than 400,000 Australians who keep backyard chooks will tell you. Unfortunately, it’s often not just ...2 days ago- Bryce Edwards’ Political Roundup: The Uffindell scandal raises big questions about integrity in N...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards. National Party MP for Tauranga, Sam Uffindell. Political Roundup: The Uffindell scandal raises big questions about integrity in National National is dripping “blue blood” again. The revelations over Sam Uffindell’s violent assault indicate that the National Party under Christopher Luxon hasn’t quite shed the toxicity and ...2 days ago - Monkeypox can be transmitted to babies during and after pregnancy. We should be watchful but not ala...
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