Archive for September, 2024
The Civilian is back.
Unemployment is definitely up.
Written By: - Date published: 2:51 pm, September 18th, 2024 - 7 comments
The Civilian, a site that publishes the satire news is back. Hopefully for readers this will last. It only appears to have been running for a few days. Clearly the governments ongoing unemployment program is working well for the art of satire.
National’s gang patch ban may hinder police investigations
Written By: - Date published: 10:55 am, September 18th, 2024 - 18 comments
The police’s recent successful operation against the Comanchero gang could concievably have been compromised by National’s proposed gang patch ban.
Open mike 18/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 18th, 2024 - 66 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 17/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 17th, 2024 - 18 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 …
Under National crime is out of control
Written By: - Date published: 9:07 am, September 17th, 2024 - 35 comments
Christopher Luxon yesterday celebrated a 22% reduction in crime in Downtown Auckland even though crime in the Auckland region went up by 7% during the same time. And later that day had to explain how the number of victims of violent crime had increased by 30,000.
National plan for 2000 extra Kiwis in prison per year
Written By: - Date published: 9:01 am, September 17th, 2024 - 20 comments
The government plans to put up to 2000 more Kiwis behind bars by 2034 at a potential cost of up to $1.2bn per budget in today’s money. Meanwhile crime, including violent crime is increasing across all of NZ.
Open mike 17/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 17th, 2024 - 57 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 16/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 16th, 2024 - 6 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 16/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 16th, 2024 - 75 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 15/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 15th, 2024 - 24 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 14/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 14th, 2024 - 33 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 13/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 13th, 2024 - 11 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 …
Free School lunches have a profound beneficial effect on learning
Written By: - Date published: 11:23 am, September 13th, 2024 - 23 comments
This is what David Seymour was told. But he and the Government still chose to push through significant cuts to the scheme.
Open mike 13/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 13th, 2024 - 23 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 12/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 12th, 2024 - 5 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 …
Trouble at Mill
Written By: - Date published: 1:00 pm, September 12th, 2024 - 25 comments
It seems clear that the Government refused to do anything to stop Winston Pulp from closing its mills. And the Government’s plans to address price volatility by the use of LPG is counterproductive, especially when the cost of renewable energy is considered.
Attorney General’s constitutional advice on Treaty Principles bill will be interesting
Written By: - Date published: 10:13 am, September 12th, 2024 - 46 comments
David Seymour finally released some hard information about Act’s coalition bone – Treaty Principles bill. The regulatory impact statement is damning and points to the status quo as being preferable. It will provide an interesting scope for Judith Collins in her non-partisan role as Attorney-General.
Open mike 12/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 12th, 2024 - 48 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 11/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 11th, 2024 - 4 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 11/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 11th, 2024 - 108 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 10/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 10th, 2024 - 5 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 …
Towards the abyss
Written By: - Date published: 12:34 pm, September 10th, 2024 - 37 comments
Yesterday it was confirmed that Act’s Treaty Principles Bill had been approved by Cabinet for drafting and introduction into Parliament in November this year. Get ready for the circus to start.
Open mike 10/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 10th, 2024 - 49 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 09/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 9th, 2024 - 11 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 …
A new Labour electricity policy
Written By: - Date published: 10:19 am, September 9th, 2024 - 70 comments
Proposed policy for the Labour Party. New Zealand’s power system should empower the people in their lives and systems, secure electricity use and production for New Zealand in perpetuity, and make the electricity system serve New Zealand not the other way round. How do we achieve this?
Open mike 09/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 9th, 2024 - 13 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 08/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 8th, 2024 - 25 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 …
Unions are still relevant
Written By: - Date published: 5:50 pm, September 7th, 2024 - 26 comments
Unions have fought for the rights of employees in the past, present, and future.
Open mike 07/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, September 7th, 2024 - 48 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 06/09/2024
Written By: - Date published: 5:30 pm, September 6th, 2024 - 7 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 …
Gormless Government releases confidential legal advice on Charter School law
Written By: - Date published: 9:30 am, September 6th, 2024 - 31 comments
The Government has mistakenly released confidential legal advice confirming that the Charter School legislation breaches ILO conventions, free trade agreements and potentially the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.
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- Government must support workers following Smithfield closure
NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff is calling on the Government to show leadership following the announced closure of the Smithfield meat works, and the continued loss of regional manufacturing jobs, by putting in place policies to support workers with retraining and income insurance. “The loss of 600 jobs ...1 week ago - Aotearoa’s Big Lie
OPINIONWhen I first wrote about David Seymour’s ties to the Atlas Network this year, I came across a fellow called Trotter who argued that - although Atlas Network wasn’t a conspiracy - as David Farrar, David Seymour, and Chris Bishop all claimed - it really wasn’t worth the left’s time ...1 week ago - Fast Track Stupidity
Ten years from now, I will almost certainly be dead. But, if I were to live that long, I would be constantly challenged with the question, “Why did you not warn us about what was surely already apparent – that the globe was heating at an ever-increasing rate, and that ...2 weeks ago - Dr Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
2022, directed by Sam Raimi It’s a bold artistic choice on Marvel’s part to spend the entire two hour runtime of the guy’s own movie telling us how literally every version of him is fucking terrible and this one’s only the hero because Wanda managed to be even worse. I’d ...2 weeks ago - Train in Vain
You must explain why this must beDid you lie when you spoke to meDid you stand by meNo, not at allWriters: Paul Simonon, Topper Headon, Mick Jones, Joe StrummerGood morning, all. Since it's Friday, I’ll take a quick look at a few of the stories from the week. There’s also ...2 weeks ago - Weekly Roundup 18-October-2024
Happy Friday, and welcome to another round-up of interesting stories about what’s happening in Auckland and other cities. Feel free to add your links in the comments! This post, like all our work, is brought to you by a largely volunteer crew and made possible by generous donations from our ...2 weeks ago - Skeptical Science New Research for Week #42 2024
Open access notables The influence of partisan news on climate mitigation support: An investigation into the mediating role of perceived risk and efficacy, Choi & Hart, Risk Analysis: Perceptions of efficacy play a central role in motivating people to engage in climate actions. However, there has been little investigation into how different climate efficacy ...2 weeks ago - The usual suspect
Economic woes for Wellington continued today with news that yet more longstanding enterprises were going out of business. Capital One Hour Photos; Courtenay Place Video Rentals; CDs on Cuba and Kumar’s Smokefree No-Cigarettes Dairy all said they would be closed by the end of the month, and they all had ...2 weeks ago - Unexpected support
When the Education and Workforce Committee reported back on Camilla Belich's Crimes (Theft by Employer) Amendment Bill and recommended that it not be passed, I'd assumed it was doomed. The right-wing coalition government supports employer exploitation of workers, and certainly doesn't see why intentionally and systematically conspiring to not pay ...2 weeks ago - Your Thursday Politics Roundup
For paid subscribers1. Tory Whanau says “No thanks” to Local Government Minister Simeon Brown (RNZ)Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau says there was no talk of government intervention during her talk this morning with the Local Government Minister.Following the meeting, Whanau said the conversation was polite and friendly and was mainly about ...2 weeks ago - Inspiration and Gratitude
You grew on me like a tumourAnd you spread through me like malignant melanomaAnd now you’re in my heartI should’ve cut you out back at the startSong by Tim MinchinTim Minchin has a song about cheese; one clever dick in the audience yelled it out to him last night. I ...2 weeks ago - Thursday 17 October 2024
Inflation has fallen to its lowest point in the last 3.5 years, but many costs remain high, and unemployment is expected to get worse. An OIA response received by the Green Party has revealed that Brooke van Velden’s contractor proposals are almost word for word from an Uber proposal. TEU ...2 weeks ago
- Wanted: Better housing to help people stay cool on a hotter planet
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Peter Graham and Mili Majumdar Apartments on the outskirts of New Delhi, India. (Photo credit: Adam Cohn / CC BY-NC 2.0) It was 117 degrees Fahrenheit (47°C) in Tunisia in July, yet our colleague Manel Ben Khelifa could not turn on ...2 weeks ago
- Why are economists giving this government the benefit of the doubt?
This National government came to power on the promise of tax cuts it hadn’t costed out and immediately scrapped an essential infrastructure project ten years in the making with no backup plan because global cost inflation pushed the price into mildly uncomfortable territory. It would be only a matter of ...2 weeks ago - Auckland Harbour Bridge is collapsing*
This guest post by Tim Adriaansen, an advocate for accessibility and sustainable transport, is an expanded version of a recent post on LinkedIn. Auckland Harbour Bridge is collapsing.* A new report investigating the health of the bridge shows that without rapid and significant changes to how the asset is managed, ...2 weeks ago
- The battle over Tikanga in the courts, a contemporary challenge
As Parliament girds itself for the introduction next month of David Seymour’s Treaty Principles’ Bill, a Select Committee yesterday grappled with another collision between Te Ao Maori and our British-based legal system. This time, it was ostensibly about whether University law schools should compel students to study Tikanga Maori. But ...2 weeks ago - Gordon Campbell on the language of healthcare, and Mink DeVille
So far, the Great Multi-lingual Healthcare Crisis has passed by without any damage to life, or to limbs. To date, no-one appears to have mistaken the Hindi word for “lunch-break” for the Filipino word for “tracheotomy.” But then, the risk of bad clinical outcomes was never really the point, was ...2 weeks ago - The Why ACC’s $7.2 billion deficit is not what it seems
The revelation of ACC’s $7.2 billion dollar deficit is coming at an amazing time for Luxon, Seymour, and Winnie. To start with, two of the three of them are engaging in a subtle war with the judiciary, in which ACT and New Zealand First have decided to prey on the ...2 weeks ago - Three chill games
Once again it’s Steam’s Next Fest, the regularly occurring event that highlights demos for upcoming games. It’s always a favourite of mine and I try to always participate by playing through several interesting looking titles. Today I tried three that were all extremely relaxed with no real time pressures involved. ...2 weeks ago
- We fixed it for youse
To the garage, to get a WOF. I think the tires might need replacing, you say.Leave it with us, they say.When you return, you notice the tyres are the same.In fact nothing appears to have been done.We fixed your birdshit problem, they tell you.My what, now? you ask.Your birdshit problem. ...2 weeks ago - Vijay Prashad – New Zealand’s Role in US Military Imperialism: NATO, AUKUS & 5 Eyes
Vijay Prashad is an Indian historian and journalist. Prashad is the author of forty books, including Washington Bullets, Red Star Over the Third World, The Darker Nations: A People's History of the Third World. His latest book The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power (2022) was ...2 weeks ago - Palestine and Anti-colonialism in the Global South A conversation with Indian Historian and Journali...
Vijay Prashad is an Indian historian and journalist. Prashad is the author of forty books, including Washington Bullets, Red Star Over the Third World, The Darker Nations: A People's History of the Third World. His latest book The Withdrawal: Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, and the Fragility of U.S. Power (2022) was ...2 weeks ago
- We need more judicial power, not less
The Herald is reporting on yet another reporting from the ATLAS-network-linked "New Zealand" Initiative, this one complaining of a creep towards judicial supremacy, and calling for the powers of judges to interpret the law to be reined in. It seems that the billionaires who fund ATLAS and its local collaborators ...2 weeks ago
- Rwanda’s Kagame: from Saviour to Tyrant?
Is Rwanda turning into a country that seeks regional dominance and exterminates its rivals? This is a contention examined by Dr Michela Wrong, and Dr Maria Armoudian Dr Wrong is a journalist who has written best-selling books on Africa. Her latest, Do Not Disturb. The story of a political murder ...2 weeks ago
- Au Revoir, PM Luxon
Kiwirail FerriesThere’s some good news to come out of this PR loving government. If there’s one thing good about them, it’s that they are politically cashed up and comms savvy - and therefore want to please on things that get NZ’s attention.After the stalemate between National and NZ First over ...2 weeks ago - Member’s Day
Today is a Member's Day. First up is the third reading of Deborah Russell's Family Proceedings (Dissolution for Family Violence) Amendment Bill, which looks like it will pass unanimously. This will be followed by the committee stage of Katie Nimon's Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) (Improving Mental Health Outcomes) Amendment Bill ...2 weeks ago
- Wednesday 16 October
E tū are raising concerns with proposals to privatise airport security, saying that staff are “extremely concerned” about risks to safety for those who use airports. 1News has published an investigative piece on international nurses struggling to find a job in NZ. In political news, the fallout from the Govt’s ...2 weeks ago
- Life in the Appalachians once felt ‘untouchable.’ Then Helene struck.
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Tree Meinch A person bicycles through floodwaters remaining from Hurricane Helene on October 4, 2024, in Swannanoa, North Carolina. Hundreds of people were killed in six states in the wake of the powerful hurricane, which made landfall as a Category 4. (Photo ...2 weeks ago
- The Bare Necessities
Coming out to the light of dayWe got many moons that are deep at playSo I keep an eye on the shadow's smileTo see what it has to sayYou and I both knowEverything must go awayAh, what do you say?Songwriters: Anthony Kiedis / Brian Joseph Burton / Chad Gaylord Smith ...2 weeks ago - Dealing to the climate crisis
Fire and flood, heat-waves and rivers of rain. Climate change is impacting us powerfully. Major floods in Auckland, Hawkes Bay, Germany, India, the US…Huge forest fires in Australia, Canada, Greece, California….Intense heat waves in Spain, Italy, Greece, India, the US…. And we haven’t spoken of melting glaciers and ice-caps, rising ...2 weeks ago - Jewish, not Zionist
What is the difference between Jewish and Zionist? Marilyn Garson is the co-founder of Alternative Jewish Voices, an observant Jew who has lived and worked in Gaza. Her first book, Still Lives, told the story of her Gazan team through four years and two wars. Her second book, Jewish, not ...2 weeks ago
- The biggest PT improvements in six years
In just over a month, Auckland is going to see some of the biggest changes to our public transport network since the completion of the New Network over six years ago. The decade between 2008 and 2018 was one of the most significant for public transport in Auckland. Almost every ...2 weeks ago
- Jacqui Van Der Kaay: Scandals contributed to Labour’s election defeat
Former Prime Minister Chris Hipkins admits that the series of scandals leading up to last year’s election contributed to Labour’s large defeat. In Back on Track, a new book on the 2023 New Zealand election, being launched today, Hipkins says “A succession of ministerial scandals didn’t help the mood that ...2 weeks ago - Ducking Out of Society With a Dumb Phone
Hi,I read through your feedback about my AI voice clone with both delight and horror — and am so appreciative to all of you who left comments.There was such a wide range of discussion that it sort of blew my mind, from accessibility and ethics, to the very real issue ...2 weeks ago - The politics behind Winston’s latest new idea
New Zealand First’s $100 billion “Future Fund” has a carefully calculated political strategy behind it. It is an attempt to raid the Labour Party’s conservative right wing. New Zealand First knows that the coalition of voting groups that got it over the five per cent threshold last year is shaky. ...2 weeks ago - Wistful longing in Comic Sans
A couple of thoughts about the giving of a speechLet’s say you are speaking to Tangata Whenua at a sensitive moment. Let’s say your government’s policies have worried and angered them.Let’s say that people with any sort of informed opinion have been saying that your policies stand to unravel much ...2 weeks ago - What if you run a transparent process, then ignore it?
On Friday I blogged a news story about Paul Goldsmith's appointment of terf and genocide supporter Stephen Rainbow as Chief Human Rights Commissioner, and how it appeared that he had ignored the recommendations of the appointments panel to shoulder-tap a preferred and unqualified candidate. The Spinoff was on the story ...2 weeks ago
- Tuesday 15 October 2024
A new poll shows there is strong public support for rail-enabled ferries, which MUNZ have said shows New Zealanders know what a huge mistake it was to cancel the order for new ferries. In other poll-related news, a 1News-Verian poll shows both major parties and their leaders losing support, and ...2 weeks ago
- First judicial review for the Minister of Transport
In September, Eloise Gibson reported for RNZ that the Minister of Transport, Simeon Brown, fast-tracked changes to tailpipe emissions standards to meet a car industry deadline. Now, legal questions are being asked about the process that led to those decisions. As reported on Monday, again by Eloise Gibson for RNZ, the ...2 weeks ago
- Why have hurricanes gone crazy?
This is a re-post from the Climate Brink by Kevin Trenberth Have there been other years where multiple hurricanes hit Florida? That is one of the questions I am now getting. The answer is yes: in 2004, for instance. The summer of 2004 was when four hurricanes made landfall in Florida, ...2 weeks ago
- Gordon Campbell on Conservative ghosts, Holly Arrowsmith and Fazerdaze
Clearly, Israel is intent on de-populating Gaza for Israeli re-settlement, and is using military force as a form of state terrorism to depopulate swathes of southern Lebanon. To similar ends, it is also indiscriminately bombing Lebanese rural villages and civilian neighbourhoods in Beirut. Israel’s ultimate aim appears to be to ...2 weeks ago - Civil War and the new Captain America
With new trailers for Thunderbolts and Captain America 4 out over the last couple of months there’s been a resurgence of “Bucky should have been Cap instead of Sam” opining, with one of the main reasons given being “Bucky was Cap first in the comics!” Sure, he was, it’s true ...2 weeks ago - Is It Getting Better?
Is it getting better?Or do you feel the same?Will it make it easier on you now?You got someone to blameSongwriters: Paul David Hewson / Adam Clayton / Larry Mullen / Dave EvansIt's polling day from TVNZ. We don’t get many polls these days. Of course, they don’t mean a lot ...2 weeks ago - If you say so, Bishop
Is it a surprise to learn that the government is happy to see some commercial fishing in a marine reserve?It is not. This is, after all, a government that is happily giving more latitude to the tobacco industry, the gun lobby and ute drivers to put us all in greater ...2 weeks ago - Men, the Left, and the “Women’s Vote”.
On Calvary Street are trellisesWhere bright as blood the roses bloom,And gnomes like pagan fetishesHang their hats on an empty tombWhere two old souls go slowly mad,National Mum and Labour Dad.James K. BaxterBallad of Calvary Street1969 JAMES K. BAXTER’S stereotypes, “National Mum” and “Labour Dad”, strike a discordant note in ...2 weeks ago - Media Link: AVFA on Israel going rogue.
In this episode of the “A view from Afar” podcast Selwyn Manning and I discuss Israel’s expansion of its war in Lebanon as part of a “six front” strategy that it thinks it can win, focusing on the decision-making process … Continue reading ...2 weeks ago - Monday 14 October 2024
The closure of Karioi Pulp Mill ends generations of family employment, and Health NZ mandates staff to take three weeks’ leave over Christmas. In politics, the government plans to reform anti-money laundering laws, and a report suggests NZ can’t meet climate targets without international support. Meanwhile, protests disrupted Winston Peters’ ...2 weeks ago
- A moral void at the heart of our establishment
Back in July, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care delivered its report, detailing a horrific litany of abuse for which the government was ultimately responsible. The report found that a long list of government ministers and officials had allowed, failed to stop, and effectively covered up that ...2 weeks ago
- Chorus for Capital Gains Tax Grows
Correction: Total tax take is around $120B, total revenue is $167B. NZ Super costs $23B. How many successful CEOs can manager Christopher Luxon snark at after running a government airline with a near monopoly on the domestic market?After taking a crack at ANZ Boss Antonia Watson for her support of ...2 weeks ago - Who benefits from secrecy around public infrastructure?
You might have seen this video, which we received as part of a recent OIA request. It showcases the original light rail plans developed by Auckland Transport between 2014-2017. The video was apparently produced in early 2018 by Auckland Transport, just a few months before the project was ...2 weeks ago
- No longer grey power volunteers
At the heart of New Zealand First lies a fundamental tension. And it is all about Winston Peters. He has led the party since its formation in 1993, and he confirmed yesterday that he will be standing again at the next election. He is one year older than Donald Trump, ...2 weeks ago
- 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #41
2 weeks ago
- Where’s the opposition?
Let me start with -Yes, I know National, ACT and NZ First are very well funded and supported by friendly platforms, promoters, and our wealthiest - pre and post-election.I also remember when David Seymour personally attacked journalist Benedict Collins, then 'suggested' he would "review" TVNZ and make them pay a ...2 weeks ago - Christopher Luxon is… Unaware
Every day, the deficit growsYou spend more than you ownPapa always said to me“Keep a close eye on your authority”You say that you careI was unawareYou say that you careI was unawareSong: Allen Stone.It used to be that when politicians wanted to avoid admitting they knew something, they’d say, “I ...2 weeks ago - Unreal
2 weeks ago - Fact brief – Is more CO2 a good thing because it’s plant food?
Skeptical Science is partnering with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. This fact brief was written by Sue Bin Park from the Gigafact team in collaboration with members from our team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Is more CO2 ...2 weeks ago
- Political Roundup – The Anti-Environment Government to Dame Jacinda Adern
Good morning ! Weekend at last ! Here’s some quick updates for the field:1. Three Ministers chose 149 projects for the Fast-Track list. The government’s hand picked advisory team then failed to independently verify ANY information provided by applications. Nor did anyone consider any environmental impacts.Mountain Tui is a reader-supported ...2 weeks ago - What do you Predict?
Take me somewhere newI've already been here once beforeSomewhere unbelievableBefore it starts to blow upTake me somewhere newI've already been here twice beforeLet's get out of hereI'm bored this place is gonna blow upSongwriters: Garret Lee / Jordan Miller / Kylie Miller / Eliza Enman Mcdaniel / Leandra EarlSubstack used ...2 weeks ago - Cloning My Dumb Voice
2 weeks ago - Truths
2 weeks ago - Aurora Australis II: Southern Lights October Boogaloo
Some months ago, the Aurora Australis, the Southern Lights, made an appearance over Dunedin: https://phuulishfellow.wordpress.com/2024/05/12/seeing-the-aurora-australis/ I even went out to Tunnel Beach to see it. But tonight? Tonight I did not even have to leave my backyard. And not just that. Light pollution from a city notwithstanding, I could see ...2 weeks ago - Law and Order; An Economics Perspective
What might the public’s increasing demands for safety and security tell the economist?Criminology and economics are quite different disciplines. Someone from one discipline trespasses on the other with the greatest of caution, something which, I’m afraid, not all economists have. There is a foolish economics literature about the ‘optimal level ...2 weeks ago - PONIT and PLAAT: The FLICC poster now also available in Russian and Romanian
It is one of the most successful products of our German-language partner website klimafakten.de: a large-format infographic about typical disinformation strategies, not just in terms of climate. The poster has previously been available in eight languages, and now two more have been added. The new translations were produced with partners ...2 weeks ago
- Fast Track, baby!
1. Poor old New Zealand was exposed to all the world with its debt trousers around its ankles in a briefing yesterday by Nicola Willis. Just how huge is our debt?a. 42% of GDPb. 69% of GDPc. 94% of GDPd. 420% of GDP2. How does that compare to a proper ...2 weeks ago - Goldsmith’s “transparent” human rights appointment process
Back in August, National sabotaged human rights by appointing terf and genocide supporter Stephen Rainbow as Chief Human Rights Commissioner, and terf and white supremacist Melissa Derby as Race Relations Commissioner. The appointments seemed calculated to undermine public confidence in the Commission, and there were obvious questions about how they ...2 weeks ago
- Mosque shooter was given gun license by a ‘stretched’ system, verified by two referees who had m...
The second phase of the inquest into the mosque shooting is currently ongoing, and it is right now examining how the terrorist was able to obtain his firearms license and the guns used to commit the attack. The answer is “Really, really easily”. The 10 year expiration period for firearms ...2 weeks ago - Why NZ shouldn’t have to pay the price for Nicola Willis’s incompetence
Is anyone surprised about NZ’s finances? Yesterday Treasury released its latest financial report. The operating balance deficit was $1.8bn higher than forecast and essentially $3.4 billion worse compared to the prior year.Government revenues were up from solid wage growth in an inflationary environment - albeit business performance was weaker with ...2 weeks ago - Kātuarehe
Uh uh, KātuareheYou ain't readyWe're not flying on the same planeUh, KātuareheYou ain't readyI see you trying it's a damn shame, uhSong by Anna CoddingtonThis morning, I was going to write about some of the stories from the week, but it was all a bit depressing. “The Trickle Down that ...3 weeks ago - Friday 11 October 2024
Government budget problems and public service cuts are putting pressure on communities, with frontline services and media integrity at risk. E tū is sounding the alarm over TVNZ’s cost-cutting; MUNZ challenges KiwiRail layoffs and Unions Wellington succeeded in stopping the sale of Wellington Airport. With this economic uncertainty, grassroots efforts ...3 weeks ago
- Weekly Roundup 11-October-2024
Kia ora and welcome to another weekly roundup of stories that caught our eye about cities and how they work. Feel free to share any links we might have missed, in the comments below. As always, this post is compiled by our largely volunteer team, and your support makes it ...3 weeks ago
- Gordon Campbell On Luxon Living In Denial About His Privilege
In the same week that food banks have been forced to close for lack of government support, Auditor-General John Ryan has slammed the process by which $24 million of taxpayer funds got handed out to the “I am Hope” foundation, in order to finance Mike King’s dubiously effective Gumboot Friday ...3 weeks ago
- Skeptical Science New Research for Week #41 2024
Open access notables Manifold increase in the spatial extent of heatwaves in the terrestrial Arctic, Rantanen et al., Communications Earth & Environment: It is widely acknowledged that the intensity, frequency and duration of heatwaves are increasing worldwide, including the Arctic. However, less attention has been paid to the land area affected ...3 weeks ago
- Calm in the eye
While we were away earlier this year, some men got into our house and took away the big slider door and windows that open onto our upstairs deck. I watched the whole thing happen on the other side of the world on our security camera. I had told the guy who ...3 weeks ago - 10/10: World Day Against the Death Penalty
Today, October 10, is the world day against the death penalty. Out of 195 UN member states, 63 still permit routine capital punishment. Today is the day we work to change that. This year's theme is the misconception that the death penalty makes people safer. The use of the death ...3 weeks ago
- Gut Feelings.
Vox Populi: It is worth noting that if Auckland’s public health services were forced to undergo cutbacks of the same severity as Dunedin’s, and if the city’s Mayor and its daily newspaper were able to call the same percentage of its citizens onto the streets, then the ensuing demonstrations would number ...3 weeks ago
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- Government to appoint Crown Observer to Wellington City Council
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has today announced his intention to appoint a Crown Observer to Wellington City Council, following news that the Council will now be required to rewrite its 2024-34 Long Term Plan. “I have been concerned about the Council’s ability to manage their Long Term Plan amendment ...6 days ago - Government provides clarity to farmers and councils on freshwater plans
The Government will move to add an amendment to the Resource Management Act Amendment Bill, currently before Parliament, which will restrict councils’ ability to notify freshwater plans before the gazettal of the replacement National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Environment ...6 days ago
- Smarter healthy school lunches programme serves up $130m in savings
Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that the government has worked with businesses to transform the school lunch programme, delivering for children and saving for taxpayers. “We have embraced commercial expertise, used government buying power, and generated supply chain efficiencies to realise over $130m of annual cost ...6 days ago
- Govt confirms details of abuse in care national apology
The Government has confirmed further details about the national apology to survivors of abuse in care. “On November 12 Parliament will apologise on behalf of the nation for the failures of the State across many governments. Following a mihi whakatau, proceedings will begin mid-morning with survivor voices and apologies from ...7 days ago
- Improvements to protect children in schools
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Department of Internal Affairs [the Department] is taking action to better protect children and young people from harmful child offenders working in schools. “The Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the New Zealand Teaching Council to improve information sharing ...7 days ago
- Government to toughen Three Strikes Bill
The Government is listening to New Zealanders and Cabinet has agreed to recommend modifications to the Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Bill, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says. “This Government is committed to restoring law and order. The Bill to reinstate the Three Strikes law makes it clear that ...7 days ago
- Breaking ground on the first new Road of National Significance
Work has kicked off on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) as the Government continues to move at pace to deliver infrastructure that enables Kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Government is keeping its ...1 week ago
- NZ heads to Samoa for Commonwealth talks
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will be among world leaders travelling to Apia this week for a meeting of the 56-nation Commonwealth. This is the first time the two-yearly Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is hosted by Samoa, representing a great opportunity to profile the ...1 week ago
- Government to Clarify s70 Discharge Consent to Provide Certainty for Councils and Primary Sector
The Government has announced its intention to provide certainty on discharge rules under section 70 of the Resource Management Act (RMA) for primary producers, and councils – enabling permitted discharge activities to be managed in a practical way, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay confirmed today. “The clarification will be introduced via ...1 week ago
- New Zealand celebrates epic sporting weekend
New Zealanders have a huge amount to be proud about after five national sporting teams celebrated historic wins over the weekend, Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop says. “In New Zealand’s history there haven’t been too many sporting weekends like the one we’ve just seen, with epic wins from Team ...1 week ago
- Foreign Minister represents NZ at Indonesian Presidential inauguration
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has concluded a visit to Indonesia, where he attended the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto. “It was a pleasure meeting President Prabowo in Jakarta for the second time this year,” Mr Peters says. “Indonesia is a key partner for New Zealand in the Indo-Pacific, ...1 week ago
- Removing roadblocks to building infrastructure
New Zealand has a widely acknowledged infrastructure deficit, which is holding us back socially, economically and environmentally, Land Information Minister Chris Penk says. “If we want to improve our productivity and lift our standard of living, we need to fix our pipes, increase the capacity of our schools and hospitals and build more houses, roads ...1 week ago
- Anniversary of Equal Pay Act shows we have more to do
The anniversary of the Equal Pay Act is a reminder that we still have work to do to achieve equality for women across this country, Minister for Women Nicola Grigg says. “Today marks the anniversary of the Equal Pay Act that was introduced in 1972. Over the past few decades, ...1 week ago
- Attracting investment on agenda for Singapore trip
Seeking investment to support the delivery of large regional projects is on the agenda for Regional Development and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones as he heads to Singapore to meet potential investors, business leaders and policymakers. “Attracting more overseas investment is a vital part of the Coalition Government’s economic strategy. ...1 week ago
- Foreign Minister completes successful visit to Thailand
Foreign Minister Winston Peters wrapped up a successful programme of engagements in Bangkok today, where he met with Thai political and business leaders. “Thailand is an important economic and security partner for New Zealand. We are seriously focused on achieving our joint ambition of lifting our relationship to a ‘Strategic ...1 week ago
- West Coast to offer rural and remote medicine training
In another step towards improving New Zealand’s rural health workforce, Te Tai o Poutini West Coast has just received accreditation to deliver Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) Training, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says. “This accreditation is great news for the West Coast and will help boost ...1 week ago
- Government praises important progress on East Coast clean-up
Important progress is being made on cleaning-up and strengthening resilience in the Tairāwhiti region, 18 months on from the devastating weather events in 2023, Forestry Minister Todd McClay said today. To date the Government has committed $110 million resulting in approximately 440,000 tonnes of slash and debris being removed from ...2 weeks ago
- New members appointed to NZ On Air Board
Brett Banner and Philip Crump have been appointed to the NZ On Air Board, Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “I am delighted to appoint two members who bring such fantastic media skills and experience. “Mr Banner has a strong commercial and accounting background which will be a great ...2 weeks ago
- Health Minister to attend international meetings in the Philippines and Singapore
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti will travel to Manila this weekend, leading New Zealand’s delegation to the World Health Organization’s Western Pacific Regional Committee Meeting. “Significant health challenges remain in our diverse Western Pacific region, which is also prone to the impacts of climate change,” says Dr Reti. “Being represented ...2 weeks ago
- Residence portion of the Military-Style Academies complete
The residence portion of the Military Style Academy Pilot at Te Au rere a te Tonga Youth Justice residence in Palmerston North is wrapping up, with the young people now transitioning back into the community with support, Minister for Children Karen Chhour says. Ten young people have spent three months ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealand takes next step in dairy dispute with Canada
New Zealand has today notified the Canadian Government and other Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) members that it has triggered mandatory negotiations in a dairy dispute with Canada, Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today. In September last year, a Panel of Arbitrators ruled in favour of New Zealand, finding that Canada had breached its obligations under the CPTPP by ...2 weeks ago
- Instrumental change for NZSO Board
Three new members are being appointed to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Board to help ensure it’s focused on bringing value to New Zealanders, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “The trio of new members, James Christmas, Karyn Rachtman and Susannah Robinson, have expertise across fundraising, philanthropy, Crown governance, sector experience ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute Boards Appointment
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed the appointment of Fletcher Tabuteau as Chair of the Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) Board. Mr Tabuteau (Ngāti Ngāraranui, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue) was a teacher at Rotorua Boys' High School, a lecturer in Economics, and head of ...2 weeks ago
- Government investing in Auckland and Wellington rail reliability
The Government has announced how $101.7 million in Budget 2024 funding for metro rail networks will be split between Auckland and Wellington to address the maintenance backlog and deliver more reliable services for commuters in our main cities, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Auckland metro rail network will receive $48.8 ...2 weeks ago
- Changes to Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa
The Government is continuing to stabilise the immigration system by tightening the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV). “Despite New Zealand being internationally regarded as a safe, fair and highly attractive place to work, we are not immune to migrant exploitation. This is unacceptable,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says. “The ...2 weeks ago
- Construction to start on Nelson Hospital ED expansion
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says construction on a significant expansion to Nelson Hospital’s emergency department marks a major milestone in work to improve services for the local community. “Next week, Health New Zealand will be breaking ground on a $10.6 million expansion to the existing ED, which will increase ...2 weeks ago
- Government releases targeted actions to improve road safety
The Government has today released targeted actions to improve road safety that are focused on increasing road policing and enforcement, targeting the highest contributing factors to fatal crashes, and delivering new and safe roading infrastructure, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. Increased alcohol breath testing and introducing roadside drug testing Reviewing ...2 weeks ago
- More benefit exits into work as sanctions increase
The Government’s relentless focus on welfare that works and holding job seekers accountable through sanctions saw a year-on-year increase in the number of people moving from benefits into work in the September quarter, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Despite the economic gloom the Government inherited, 16,071 people ...2 weeks ago
- Priorities set for Retirement Villages Act review
E te huru mā, haramai e noho. E tu te huru pango, hanatu e haere.The coalition Government is progressing mahi in the Retirement Villages Act 2003 review and focusing it on the areas of highest importance, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka and Seniors Minister Casey Costello announced today. “It’s ...2 weeks ago
- Anzac Day commemorations will honour more veterans
The Government is making changes so that more veterans who have served New Zealand will be formally recognised as part of official Anzac Day commemorations, Veterans Minister Chris Penk and Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith say. “Veterans often tell me that recognition is the most meaningful form of ...2 weeks ago
- Trade Minister to attend G20 meeting in Brazil
Trade Minister Todd McClay will attend the Group of Twenty (G20) Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting in Brasilia next week. “As an exporting nation reliant on trade, this is a significant opportunity to boost our interests with some of the world’s largest economies and many of our most important trading partners,” ...2 weeks ago
- More good news for Kiwis
Today’s inflation figures are more good news for New Zealanders, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. Stats NZ reported today that the inflation rate had dropped from 3.3 per cent in the year to June to 2.2 per cent in the year to September. That is down from 5.6 per cent just ...2 weeks ago
- Welfare traffic light system off to good start
Data from the first full calendar month of the Government’s welfare traffic light system shows more beneficiaries are doing what is required of them, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. A total of 331,530 people were in the system at the end of September due to having work-related ...2 weeks ago
- Dairy export quota Bill passes first reading
The Government’s work to boost export value has hit another milestone, with a new dairy Bill passing its first reading in Parliament today, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced. “The Dairy Industry Restructuring (Export Licences Allocation) Amendment Bill will modernise New Zealand’s dairy export quota system to grow export and farmgate ...2 weeks ago
- Government extends fight against cybercrime
Legislation that will help protect New Zealanders from cybercrime has passed first reading in Parliament today, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “11% of New Zealanders were victims of fraud and cybercrime in 2023, causing significant financial harm and emotional distress. “The Budapest Convention, also known as the Council of Europe ...2 weeks ago
- “Advancing New Zealand and Asia relations”
Good evening Before discussing the ‘advancing of New Zealand and Asia relations’, we would like to congratulate the Asia New Zealand Foundation and acknowledge its significant contribution to New Zealand’s relationship with, and understanding of, Asia over the past 30 years. Can we also welcome Thitinan Pongsudhirak, one of ...2 weeks ago
- Speech to the Institute of Finance Professionals NZ, 2024 Conference
Kia ora koutou Greetings from Wellington. I am sorry I can’t be with you in person today, but I’m delighted that I can talk to you virtually. I’d like to begin by acknowledging your chair Bill Goodwin and members of your board. I’d also like to acknowledge the fitness of ...2 weeks ago
- Foreign Minister to visit Thailand, attend Indonesian Presidential inauguration
Foreign Minister Winston Peters is travelling this week to Bangkok for talks with his Thai counterpart, and to Jakarta to attend the inauguration of Indonesia’s next President, Prabowo Subianto. “New Zealand is committed to our Comprehensive Partnership with Indonesia, and our shared ties as democracies in the Indo-Pacific region,” Mr ...2 weeks ago
- Economic growth on the Fast-track
The one-stop-shop Fast-track Approvals Bill, and the 149 projects listed in the Bill, will help rebuild our struggling economy and kick-start economic growth across the country, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says. “Since 2022, New Zealand has battled anaemic levels of economic growth. If we want Kiwi kids to stop ...2 weeks ago
- Sir Brian Roche new Public Service Commissioner
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today announced the appointment of Sir Brian Roche as the next Public Service Commissioner. “I am delighted to appoint Sir Brian to this crucial leadership position,” Mr Luxon says. “Sir Brian is a highly respected New Zealander who has held significant roles across the public and ...2 weeks ago
- Health Ministry not winning any friends over conflict of interest handling
Analysis - The ministry staffer and minister Casey Costello have every right to feel let down. ...2 days ago - The House: Restoring Citizenship Bill passes second reading
After a robust select committee process, all parties are supporting a member's bill that would restore New Zealand citizenship to Samoans who lost it four decades ago. ...3 days ago
- Going down a Wikipedia rabbit hole? Science says you’re one of these three types
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Polkinghorne, Adjunct Senior Industry Fellow, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies, RMIT University Johnson Martin / Unsplash If you’ve ever gone to look up a quick fact and just kept browsing from one article (or page, or video), to ...3 days ago - Ocean safeguarding declaration expected on final day of CHOGM
PM Christopher Luxon has committed to supporting the declaration when the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting wraps up on Saturday. ...3 days ago
- Todd Muller on what the US election means for New Zealand – and who will win
The former MP and American politics obsessive talks to Toby Manhire with just a handful of days to one of the most important votes of all time. With the American election just a few days away, the contest is on a knife-edge and the result could spell “disaster” for New ...3 days ago - CHOGM: More than just an expensive talkfest
The music is blaring, the bouncy castle is in full use and the best of Samoa’s wares are on display at the CHOGM Trade Village in Apia.In the corner of the central marquee tent a large cake has pride of place. It is decorated with the silver fern symbol of ...3 days ago - The Secret Diary of .. political appointments
Former Act leader Richard Prebble“Name?”“Prebs.”“Please take a seat, Mr Prebs.”“I’m already sitting down.”“Yes, but that’s a nice seat. Leather. Take it with you after I appoint you as a new member of the Waitangi Tribunal.”“Wait – this is an interview process. Where is the robust questioning?”“I asked you for your ...3 days ago
- Short story: second place in the Sargeson Prize
Robinson is making progress, real progress. Two weeks with this new approach and he’s written more than the past year combined. It’s drastic, for sure: leaving his phone beside the fruit bowl, climbing into the roof space above his garage, kicking the ladder away and only letting Janet resurrect it ...3 days ago
- The Weekend: What does your taste say about you?
Madeleine Chapman reflects on the week that was. There’s a saying that I used to like that goes: you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. I used to like the saying because I love psychological categorisation and it made me think, for a ...3 days ago
- The complete top 100 NZ TV shows of the 21st Century
All week we’ve been counting down the top 100 New Zealand TV shows of the 21st century so far (read more about the process here). Here’s the list in full, for your long weekend reading pleasure. My watchlistWatched: 0To watch: 0go to list 100. Reservoir Hill (2009) I’m ...3 days ago
- ‘I hated every minute’: Brodie Kane on the beloved rom-com she couldn’t stand
On The Ladder host Brodie Kane takes a walk down television memory lane, from a nightmare news interview to never getting over Food in a Minute. You may remember Brodie Kane from such TVNZ stalwarts as One News, Breakfast and Fair Go. Kane has had a storied life on television ...3 days ago
- ‘Strong in our culture, thriving in our language’: THEIA’s perfect weekend playlist
Alt-pop singer Theia shares her perfect weekend playlist. Theia has been musing on being in the eye of multiple political storms. The Christchurch-born singer has been living in the US since March, witnessing firsthand the highs and lows of the nation’s upcoming election, while coming to grips with tensions at ...3 days ago
- ‘Observations that hit like a truck’: Poorhara by Michelle Rahurahu, reviewed
Sam Brooks raves about Michelle Rahurahu’s debut novel, Poorhara. There are two signs of a great novel, for me. One is that I can’t stop reading it, and absolutely must blast through it in one sitting. Those are the kinds of novels that envelop you in a voice, in a ...3 days ago
- The Changeover by Margaret Mahy is the greatest young adult novel ever
Books editor Claire Mabey sings the praises of Margaret Mahy’s 40-year-old supernatural thriller. It’s been 40 years since The Changeover by Margaret Mahy was published, and since it won the prestigious international award for children’s writing, the Carnegie Medal (just two years after Mahy won it for The Haunting). Forty ...3 days ago
- Gayle’s path to the Kiwis paved with Sevens gold
Gayle Broughton will join fellow Black Ferns Sevens Olympic gold-medallist Tyla King in the halves when she debuts for the Kiwi Ferns against Australia in Christchurch in the Pacific Championships on Sunday.The 28-year-old five-eighth switched to rugby league after winning an Olympic Sevens gold medal in Tokyo in 2021. In ...3 days ago
- Anne Salmond: Iwi, Kiwi and Te Tiriti
Comment: Recently, I watched the debate over the Treaty Principles Amendment bill between David Seymour and Helmut Modlik of Ngāti Toa. While they both talked about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ‘our founding document,’ their understandings of its contents were radically different.According to David Seymour, under Te Tiriti, the rangatira ceded sovereignty ...3 days ago
- New Zealand’s place in a turbulent Pacific region
Geostrategic competition has seen international engagement surging in the Pacific. But this is not necessarily benefitting individual Pacific countries, nor the region as a whole. Given this mismatch between activity and outcomes, New Zealand can have considerable influence – if it can learn the lessons of the past This was the ...3 days ago
- Podcast: An economic spring in our step
The light at the end of the recession tunnel is growing brighter thanks to recent interest rate cuts. And the good news? There are more cuts to come. After wading through what has felt like an endless river of economic mud, the recent cuts to the official cash ...3 days ago
- RSF tackles Taiwan’s media freedom ‘Achilles heel’, boosts Asia Pacific monitoring action
SPECIAL REPORT: By David Robie in Taipei It was a heady week for the Paris-based global media freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) — celebration of seven years of its Taipei office, presenting a raft of proposals to the Taiwan government, and hosting its Asia-Pacific network of correspondents. Director general ...3 days ago
- Murdoch to Musk: how global media power has shifted from the moguls to the big tech bros
ANALYSIS: By Matthew Ricketson, Deakin University and Andrew Dodd, The University of Melbourne Until recently, Elon Musk was just a wildly successful electric car tycoon and space pioneer. Sure, he was erratic and outspoken, but his global influence was contained and seemingly under control. But add the ownership of just ...3 days ago
- PM defends Fiji’s UN ‘ambush’ vote – challenged by human rights advocate
Pacific Media Watch Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has “cleared the air” with the Fijian diaspora in Samoa over Fiji’s vote against the United Nations resolution on the Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and People. He denied that Fiji — the only country to ...3 days ago
- New Zealand To Welcome Mexican Navy Tall Ship Cuauhtémoc
Named after the last Aztec emperor, Cuauhtémoc is the Mexican Navy’s instructional vessel for fourth-year cadets. The ship, also known as “The Ambassador and Knight of the Seas”, and its 261 member crew, are a symbol of Mexico abroad. ...3 days ago - Govt keeping eye on calls for Sikh activists ‘referendum’ in Auckland
The issue assumes significance with potential repercussions for New Zealand-India relations, which have seen a major up-tick in recent months. ...3 days ago
- ‘Incredibly disappointing’: PM turns up heat on Ministry of Health failing to disclose c...
Christopher Luxon congratulated Winston Peters for uncovering the conflict, but refused to say whether the personal attack on the public servant was appropriate. ...3 days ago
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Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Ginters, Associate Professor, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Sydney The Footbridge Theatre in the 1960s, when it was known as the Union Theatre. University of Sydney Archives After nearly 20 years as a lecture theatre, the ...3 days ago
- ‘Very natural conversation’: Luxon describes first meeting with King Charles
The pair met for the first time at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Apia. ...3 days ago
- Chaotic scenes at Travis Scott’s Melbourne concert: what is the role of artists in crowd behaviour...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Senior Lecturer of Urban Analytics & Resilience, UNSW Sydney Travis Scott’s Melbourne concert on October 22 lived up to his reputation for chaotic performances. Fans, eager for a high-energy show, were met with unruly scenes both inside and outside the ...3 days ago
- Submissions Open For The Auckland Harbour Board And Takapuna Borough Council Empowering Act Amendmen...
This bill would amend the Auckland Harbour Board and Takapuna Borough Council Empowering Act 1923. The Act specifies what purposes the land at 17 Sir Peter Blake Parade, Bayswater, Auckland, can be used for. This land is owned by the Takapuna Boating ...3 days ago
- Watch live: Christopher Luxon speaks from CHOGM in Samoa
The prime minister is joining other heads of government in Apia and will speak to reporters shortly. ...3 days ago
- Prabowo takes power as Indonesian military set up new battalions – what now for West Papuans?
ANALYSIS: By Ali Mirin In the lead up to the inauguration of President Prabowo Subianto last Sunday, Indonesia established five “Vulnerable Area Buffer Infantry Battalions” in key regions across West Papua — a move described by Indonesian Army Chief-of-Staff Maruli Simanjuntak as a “strategic initiative” by the new leader. The ...3 days ago
- Rabuka’s message to free Kanaky movement: ‘Don’t slap the hand that feeds you’
By Lydia Lewis, RNZ Pacific presenter/Bulletin editor Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is cautioning New Caledonia’s local government to “be reasonable” in its requests from Paris ahead of a Pacific fact-finding mission. A much-anticipated high-level visit by Pacific leaders to the French territory is confirmed, after it was postponed by ...3 days ago
- NZ’s diplomatic outreach wins hearts in Delhi
Patrick Rata, New Zealand's High Commissioner to India, rides an electric rickshaw, enjoys street food, and speaks Hindi in the video series Dil se Dilli (Delhi from the heart). ...3 days ago
- The Unity Books bestseller chart for the week ending October 25
The only published and available best-selling indie book chart in New Zealand is the top 10 sales list recorded every week at Unity Books’ stores in High St, Auckland, and Willis St, Wellington. AUCKLAND 1 Episodes by Alex Scott (Earth’s End Publishing, $40) Always a great week when Earth’s End ...3 days ago
- The Friday Poem: ‘Uniform’ by Jackson McCarthy
A new poem by Jackson McCarthy. Uniform Louis and I had this theory that nobody knew we were fucking. Uniforms could do that to a bloke — help him blend in with a crowd. Only once, at a party, did I ever see him without the shirt, collared and blue, ...3 days ago
- King Charles speaks as CHOGM officially opens
The King delivered an address to the 56 member nations at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting on Friday. ...3 days ago
- Wrongly convicted of a crime? Your ability to clear your name can come down to your postcode
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kylie Lingard, Senior lecturer, University of Wollongong Shutterstock If you’re found guilty of a crime, it’s a basic principle of Australian law that you have a right to appeal. But having a right and being able to exercise it are two ...3 days ago
- At $300m, Jules Verne-inspired Nautilus is the most expensive Australian-made show. But Disney+ was ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ari Mattes, Lecturer in Communications and Media, University of Notre Dame Australia Stan Investing in film and TV productions is a risky venture. Even the best directors and producers are just a flop away from ruining their careers. So if a ...3 days ago
- Hundreds of thousands of children could be put into financial difficulty as benefit numbers soar
As the number of people on the benefit soars, some are warning job losses can mean more than just less income. ...3 days ago
- What are the best festivals for exiled Splore fans this summer?
The beloved festival is taking a gap year. Here are your other options. Splore is one of Aotearoa’s iconic summer festivals. Starting two decades ago, it has grown into one of our largest events, showcasing art, performance and the good-vibe experience. In recent years it’s been an annual fixture, but ...4 days ago
- ‘It’s a bit unfair’ – Relief teachers express concerns over income drop
Chinese relief teachers are voicing concerns over income reductions and job security. ...4 days ago
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