A glorious waste of money for the titillation of perverts

Written By: - Date published: 9:28 am, February 8th, 2014 - 70 comments
Categories: auckland supercity, len brown, local government - Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

The fiasco of the wet dick and the perverts shuddered to a conclusion yesterday with the direct bill of around $250,000 for the cost of the council ordered external audit of the Mayor during his stupid affair with Bevan Chuang.

The question now has to be why in the hell this massively expensive and apparently unconstrained external audit was ordered on behalf of the council presumably for the councillors when there was no evidence of any corrupt wrong-doing? Surely the process the council should have followed should have been to see if there had been a suspicion of any issues in the mayoral office using their own resources first. They should have done it in any case to figure out the scope of the audit. How many emails, phone calls, txts, and financial transactions. All things required for constraining cost blowouts.

But it just looks like some perverts in council authorised wasting a pile of ratepayers money for the titillation of the media and their own political pleasuring. The only apparent constraint on what Ernest & Young looked at was a time limit. Instead of concentrating on what they were asked to do, looking at the use of council resources during the affair and if the Mayor had used undue influence on behalf of his lover – they branched out into looking at the wife’s finances.

Despite the vindictive posturing by the campaign members of the losing challenger John Palino who leaked the information through their campaign managers son (Cameron Slater) and the mayors opponents on the council. This audit revealed nothing of any particular interest to Auckland taxpayers. Of course this didn’t stop the perverts because it turned out that some hotel rooms paid for out of their own money by the mayor’s wife and mayor had been upgraded and some free rooms given.

Somehow the auditors Ernest & Young managed to include these upgrades by hotels to a customer as being a cost to the council? Ridiculous. It is a common practice by the whole hotel industry to upgrade rooms. Where the rooms aren’t already booked then the cost is cheap for the hotel as it consists largely of a better grade of soap. Hotels will commonly automatically do this for good customers like the mayors wife Shan Inglis to retain them. See my previous post “Skycity: they’re toxic“.

There was no cost to the council in any of these transactions. Len Brown, like councillors Cameron Brewer, Dick Quax and most likely others should pay a lot more attention to declaring gifts received in their private lives. But that is so that the ratepayers can see what kinds of organisations are trying to influence them.

Len Brown was completely correct when he pointed out on the release of the hugely expensive auditors report…

An inquiry into Auckland Mayor Len Brown’s affair with Bevan Chuang went into detail he never expected and may have gone too far, Brown says.

“It’s become clear I don’t have a private life at all … and that’s difficult to come to terms with,” he said.

A review of the affair and whether Brown used council resources to fund it, or if he used his position to Chuang’s advantage, was released today.

It found that while Brown had received free hotel suites and upgrades valued at more than $40,000, he did not abuse his role or use ratepayer money inappropriately.

A largely unrepentant Brown told Fairfax Media he and his wife, Shan Inglis, had laid everything on the table for the auditors – including their personal expenditure records – something that had not been expected.

“It was well outside what was originally intended. We didn’t think it would have gone into that type of detail,” Brown said.

The report was supposed to have been about Chuang – the two questions around resources and influence, he said.

“And it came back with a big fat no to both. Not a dollar of taxpayer money was used at all. It was all about our personal expenditure.”

Brown said the issue was mainly one of process – he should have been more careful and got better advice on whether accepting free rooms and upgrades were over $300, the cap on the council’s interest register.

Indeed…

As a ratepayer, I’m quite irritated that Len Brown was taking free rooms from SkyCity at the same time that he was also working with them on the proposed white elephant conference centre. This was to be paid for by further bilking addicted gamblers. That is an incredible cost to Auckland over the long term to get something of little value. Knowing that the same organisation to benefit from this could have been also trying to influence the process with gifts is why the gift register was set up.

But quite how this got into the expensive frame of reference for the auditors is a question that ratepayers need to ask of the councillors. From an outside view of it especially the jump from the estimated bill of about $100,000 to the final bill of about $250,000, it appears that the audit wasn’t properly scoped by the council.

Somehow despite being cleared of the waste of council resources and funds or using undue influence on behalf of Bevan Chuang. The council has now got Len Brown to cough up $40,000 of his own money to an enquiry that he didn’t order and which showed him not to be at fault. That in itself really shows what this is really about. Pure dirty politics.

It reeks of the type of perverted dirty machine politics that shouldn’t be allowed in NZ. It started with a New Jersey style political campaign hooking up with the demented end of the local blogosphere Cameron Slater, hooked into the media hysterics like Patrick Gower and the other jonolists of the TV3 team, and petered out in a fiasco.

Curiously I suspect that it has actually enhanced Len Brown’s political chances in the next local body election. Who else would want to get into a political campaign where this type of perversion of the political process is the norm? I suspect we can expect only the dumpster diving perverts who conceal their foul nature behind a facade of respectability.

Perhaps this is why councillor Dick Quax, a vocal opponent of the mayor, sounded like a complete dork on Checkpoint yesterday.

[audio:http://podcast.radionz.co.nz/ckpt/ckpt-20140207-1718-auckland_councillor_dick_quax_discusses_mayors_contribution-048.mp3]

I’m going to be fascinated by what the other opponents of the mayor say over the next few days. I tend to agree with The Irascible Curmudgeon about where the real questions lie.

Auckland Five_Page_1

70 comments on “A glorious waste of money for the titillation of perverts ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. RedBaronCV 1
    8 February 2014 at 9:56 am

    Making Len contribute is horrendous because :
    -he was effectively cleared
    -poorer people will hesitate to run for public offcie if they have to pay when they are in the right if they get involved in something like this.
    -enquries into things to protect the public purse (think Rodney Hide) are a cost borne by taxpayers to keep the system honest.

    I posted this back on the 15th of Jan but don’t know how to link it. It appears to be the CEO who went off the ranch doubtless encouraged by some councillors? but there doesn’t seem to be any ratification of the spend. Fix this up if you like. and I was spot on the final bill- pats own back!

    “- last meeting of old council 26 September 2013
    – local body election day 12th October 2013
    -Inquiry announced on 21 October 2013 by the CEO
    -Inaugural meeting of the new Council 29 October 2013

    Nothing that I can find in the minutes of the governing body from 29 October refers to any authorising of the inquiry. Nothing in the inquiry terms of reference refers to the council authorising it.
    The CEO probably has some powers over the transition period but he still has to follow the rules. (Otherwise he could give a contract to his mates to build a new harbour bridge). See Penny below

    Was he ever entitled to spend the funds?
    Can a CEO in this position hands out a “job for the boys” no tender etc?
    Why did he usurp the incoming council on this matter?
    Why did the terms of reference include finding the security guard – there is no financial issue for the ratepayers there, that was just purient.

    Yes it will be more than $100,000 probably closer to $250,000 for a question mark over a couple of hundred dollars. That’s just waste.
    If I was a ratepayer I’d be looking for some personal liabilty from the CEO.”

    [lprent: Right click on the date of the comment, and copy the link. Added ]

    • lprent 1.1
      8 February 2014 at 10:31 am

      Ultimately as a ratepayer I cough up money to the council and I expect the councillors to make sure it is spent wisely.

      The CEO may have ordered the enquiry with no apparent bounds. However he is not directly responsible to me. The Councillors are.

      • RedBaronCV 1.1.1
        8 February 2014 at 7:01 pm

        I agree -if any CEO does this on his own account Coucillors should be asking why. A complaint to the Auditor general if such a thing is possible. And if I was an Auckland ratepayer I would be frothing at the mouth.

  2. Tiger Mountain 2
    8 February 2014 at 10:08 am

    $250,000, Ouch! thats a knee trembler of a bill for ratepayers, particularly given the enquiry outcome (nice little earner for corporate snoopers and nitpickers Ernst & Young).

  3. captain hook 3
    8 February 2014 at 10:53 am

    what it signifies is the emergence of creep politics and right wing sleazeballs who believe that like bill o’reilly in america that they are bigger than the actual winners of the elections because they have god on their side. They are nutcases with immense guilt complexes who want to ensnare everyone else in their own psychodrama.
    Its pretty ugly to have all this evil in the name of Jesus.

  4. ianmac 4
    8 February 2014 at 11:22 am

    Didn’t that Quax fellow stand for Mayor? Amazing that anyone other than his Mum would vote for him. What an interview!
    I don’t understand why the Mayor should pay for the investigation. If I was accused of a crime would the Police be able to send me a bill when it was found that there was no evidence of my wrong doing? If so, the Police would be on to a great money making venture which would far outclass radar income! They could cover the Nz National debt in no time.

    • Murray Olsen 4.1
      8 February 2014 at 10:00 pm

      Many defendants plead guilty to charges laid by the police because they can’t afford to defend them. Others go broke proving their innocence, even though this is supposedly not required. The situation that you describe does effectively exist, but it’s lawyers who send the bill, not the coppers. NAct cutbacks on legal aid have made the situation worse.

  5. CC 5
    8 February 2014 at 11:34 am

    The ‘F***ed in the Head Five’ should have to front up financially. $20 000 from each seems pretty reasonable when someone who cost the ratepayers nothing for his rush of blood to a lower region has to front up with $40 000. It may remind Quax and Co. that ratepayers are not liable for their perverted principles. The CEO should also have to front up with the $150 000 cost over-run caused by his incompetence. Stephen Town’s effort spectacularly proved the lie to the peanuts/monkeys mantra.

  6. Will@Welly 6
    8 February 2014 at 12:36 pm

    Last night, on the Paul Henry show, Metro editor Simon Wilson questioned why didn’t the Auckland City Council get the Auditor General’s Office to do the investigation.
    A – it would have been cheaper, and B – it would have stuck to the task, not been so random.
    Still, when you’re looking for s**t, you need every last pore and orifice poked just incase it’s in that last little shred that some evidence might finally turn up.

    • greywarbler 6.1
      8 February 2014 at 1:22 pm

      Not getting the Auditor General was passed by for an idea as taking too long. You have got to pay for efficiency, and by God you will, say the opportunistic RWNJs.

      One minute they will be prating on about how rates shouldn’t rise above inflation, that is measured inflation, which has ben held down to about 2.5%. They will declare that the other Councillors are spendthrifts and they will be far better. Then they drop this bill on Auckland, saying it is a far, far better thing they do, considering that Len Brown takes pleasure in more than one woman. Even Jimmy Carter lusted in his heart.

      Then there is the thing about friendliness with the casino crowd. I bet it was them that led Lennie astray. A straight up and down guy seduced by that spurious glamour. He should have had a group of hotels to grope in. That he utilised strictly in alphabetical order. People like to think that their Mayor is not in bed with casino bosses.

      So they shoul stick him for $50,000, extra for being green. And save everyone $250,000. Oh it’s too late to do that, that’s right. Efficiency costs. These Councillors have come too quickly and now there is that long letdown while they scrape up the money for the bill, $50,000 between them. Or they should. Everyone then has paid for their pleasures. Seems fair. Then they can all have their sex on a level playing field. And set up their tight scrums where they can do no harm to innocent ratepayers.

    • Penny Bright 6.2
      8 February 2014 at 4:23 pm

      Didn’t you know that the Auditor-General Lyn Provost is a shareholder in Sky City?

      Penny Bright

      • Will@Welly 6.2.1
        8 February 2014 at 4:51 pm

        So what you’re suggesting is that she’s as bent as any of the five who laid the complaint?
        Hardly surprising, given Nationals distortion of the credibility game.

      • One Anonymous Bloke 6.2.2
        8 February 2014 at 4:54 pm

        Don’t you know that assuming everyone is corrupt says something about you and nothing whatsoever about them?

  7. tc 7
    8 February 2014 at 1:35 pm

    These 5 are just warming up.

  8. alwyn 8
    8 February 2014 at 1:37 pm

    I think that that is a most deceptive title for this piece.

    When I read the title I thought that you would be joining Deborah Russell in her attack on Air New Zealand’s new safety video. You might even have shown us some of the models.
    Then I discover it is yet another story about that irredemiably grubby little mayor of your city.

    Shame on you!

    • Draco T Bastard 8.1
      8 February 2014 at 10:00 pm

      Title is fine although I suspect the panty sniffers that went for Mayor Brown won’t like it.

  9. Ad 9
    8 February 2014 at 1:50 pm

    The controversy is fading – Brown has taken his lumps, and devolved much Committee power to Hulse. The term is largely restabilised. Further outrage is futile.

    Are we ready for Mayor Brewer in 2016?
    A strong Left needs to build the file on him.

    Chicago/New Jersey politics will not go away now in Auckland.
    And it’s time to build Brown’s successor.

    • PapaMike 9.1
      9 February 2014 at 2:22 pm

      Penny shows she has the right leadership mettle to be the next Mayor – but sooner rather than later.
      Perhaps David Cunliffe or somebody should have quiet word in Len’s ear as he is doing no favours for Labour in the election year and it will increase.

  10. Tigger 10
    8 February 2014 at 2:14 pm

    Superb post LP, in every respect.

    I’m with others calling for Councillors who demanded this to pay the damn bill.

    I also saw a billboard for that Denice Krum was still up yesterday. Shouldn’t it have come down?

  11. felix 11
    8 February 2014 at 2:39 pm

    These five like to present themselves as financially prudent right wingers, keeping rates under control, being responsible and making sure public funds are spent on core council services.

    How fucking dare they stick Auckland with this outrageous bill that they have run up for their own ends.

    Make them pay it themselves.

  12. One Anonymous Bloke 12
    8 February 2014 at 3:38 pm

    On reflection, considering how much gets spent on roads of notional significance, the titillation of perverts is a far more glorious way to waste money.

    • greywarbler 12.1
      8 February 2014 at 6:09 pm

      Roads of notional significance. Brilliant.

      • srylands 12.1.1
        8 February 2014 at 10:48 pm

        Those roads are critical to market efficiency. Hopefully it is just the start of a massive road building programme.

        • McFlock 12.1.1.1
          8 February 2014 at 11:43 pm

          roads for the sake of roads are not critical infrastructure. It’s forbes&coates work schemes, not infrastructure building.

          Actually, it’s worse than F&C – at least their goal was jobs, not a fast route to their personal holiday homes.

          Besides, in this country we need more rail.

          • Chooky 12.1.1.1.1
            9 February 2014 at 2:35 pm

            +100 McFlock.

            …what is the Labour Party stand on these roads? ( I know where the Greens stand)

            …….millions or billions of dollars wasted which is desperately needed elsewhere:

            …ie free high quality State Education for all , including special education for those who need it

            …..more money for ALL teachers!!!( not just NACT crony principals)

            …..Continuing Education reinstated ( remember NACT axed this and gave the $80 million directly to private schools)

            …..free public transport and upgraded rail system

            … upgraded public health…state funded doctor’s visits and dental care

        • Draco T Bastard 12.1.1.2
          9 February 2014 at 12:25 am

          Those roads are critical to market efficiency.

          Most of them are less efficient than doing nothing. You RWNJs really do have a strange notion of “economic”. Invariably, it isn’t.

        • One Anonymous Bloke 12.1.1.3
          9 February 2014 at 8:20 am

          Dogmatic ideologue is dogmatic. Yawn.

          PS: can’t remember who coined “roads of notional significance”. If S Rylands were more awake, he might have noticed the substantive criticism embedded in the quip, and yes, I agree, it’s brilliant, but sadly not mine.

  13. Penny Bright 13
    8 February 2014 at 4:25 pm

    FYI

    PUBLISHED ON THE NBR:

    http://www.nbr.co.nz/article/auckland-mayor-pony-ey-report-sf-151618

    errr… the PROCESS for an investigation into an alleged lack of compliance with the Auckland Council Code of Conduct is CLEARLY set out in s.8 ‘Compliance’.

    The process should have been for the constitution of a “Conduct Review Independent Panel’ by the GOVERNING BODY, from names of suitably qualified persons RECOMMENDED by the CEO.

    Not for the CEO to make up his own process and pick his own people!

    Don’t believe a word I say?

    Try reading it for yourself!

    http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionDocuments/aboutcouncil/governingbody/codeofconductelectedmembers.pdf

    Penny Bright
    _____________________________________________________________________________

    PS: When I applied for speaking rights to raise the failure of the Ernst and Young ‘Report’ to follow the process set out in s.8 ‘Compliance’ of the above-mentioned Auckland Council ‘Code of Conduct’, I was unlawfully denied, so I just took them……

    ‘Faint heart never won fair go!’ (as it were 🙂

    Auckland Council Governing Body meeting 30 January 2014, Auckland Town Hall:

    http://www.allaboutauckland.com/video/2821/penny-bright-defies-speaking-rights-order

    • One Anonymous Bloke 13.1
      8 February 2014 at 4:39 pm

      No, Penny.

      The inquiry was a colossal waste of money at the behest of a small and contemptible minority of curtain-twitching, panty-sniffing, National Party member embodying, gutter-level losers and Cameron Slater.

  14. North 14
    8 February 2014 at 5:22 pm

    Ugly harridans of Salem all of them. Would be poetic to find some dirt on them and hound them. Already Brewer’s shown some chinks with that still not adequately explained corporate funded jaunt to the GC.

    • One Anonymous Bloke 14.1
      9 February 2014 at 8:50 am

      I think there’s a perfectly adequate explanation as to why corporations give favours to politicians. They do it for the money.

  15. hoom 15
    8 February 2014 at 6:09 pm

    I’m pleased that the vast cost of the review has finally been getting some coverage.

    Its probably the most actually outrageous thing about the whole ‘affair’ so to speak.

  16. Penny Bright 16
    8 February 2014 at 8:05 pm

    Because ‘leave’ has not yet been granted by the ‘conflicted’ Attorney-General Chris Finlayson for the private prosecution against Mayor Len Brown for alleged bribery and corruption, the following affidavit I prepared is not subjudice – because the matter is not (yet) before the Court.

    Why do I support Mayor Len Brown being charged with alleged bribery and corruption?

    I suggest you read the FACTS and EVIDENCE for yourself:

    http://www.pennybright4mayor.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/LEN-BROWN-PRIVATE-PROSECUTION-2full-affidavit-penny-1.pdf

    I’m very concerned at the ‘turd-polishing’ going on here, in defence of what I consider to be indefensible.

    In my considered opinion, both Mayor Len Brown and Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse are working in the interests of the 1% – unelected corporates and property-developers – whose mechanism for corrupt corporate control of the Auckland region, is via the unelected Committee for Auckland.

    How many Auckland Council (and CCO) contracts are going to member companies of the Committee for Auckland?

    How can it possibly be ok for the former CEO of Auckland Council, Doug McKay and now the current CEO, Stephen Town to be members of the unelected, invitation-only, $10,000 membership fee per year, Committee for Auckland?

    Don’t you get it?

    The main purpose of the Ernst and Young Report, was, in my considered opinion, to help protect Mayor Len Brown from possible criminal prosecution.

    How on earth apparently NOBODY noticed, or took any notice, of the DUE PROCESS for dealing with non-compliance with the Auckland Council ‘Code of Conduct’ (s.8 ‘Compliance’) is utterly beyond me.

    http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionDocuments/aboutcouncil/governingbody/codeofconductelectedmembers.pdf

    Where are all the so-called lawyers?

    What is your ‘considered opinion’ on the ‘Rule of Law’ applying here?

    How can it possibly be proper for the (former) CEO of Auckland Council, to make up his own process and appoint his own people?

    I’m not a lawyer – but I’m not stupid and I can read – and if I think something is NOT right, I will ‘have a go’.

    Penny Bright

  17. Rodel 17
    8 February 2014 at 8:12 pm

    hoom
    Agree..Quarter of a million dollars is another example of corporate fraud and nothing we ratepayers can do about challenging it.

    • Penny Bright 17.1
      8 February 2014 at 8:43 pm

      WRONG.

      On Monday 10 February 2014 I shall be laying a formal complaint with Auckland Central Police against former Auckland Council CEO Doug McKay under Crimes Act 1961 s.107 ‘Contravention of Statute’.

      Penny Bright

      • One Anonymous Bloke 17.1.1
        9 February 2014 at 8:40 am

        “Prosecute him!” said the Queen.

        “Who?” asked Alice.

        “It doesn’t matter! Just prosecute someone!” said the Queen.

  18. Brian 18
    8 February 2014 at 9:17 pm

    No doubt some poor sod will be bearing the cost -How many nurses pay p.a. is that btw?

  19. Jared 19
    9 February 2014 at 4:42 am

    You cant be fucking serious. He was caught fucking his mistress in a council office, of course, that depends on whether you believe bevan, but ffs, you cant write this off as merely an attack on the left. What new standard are you going to hold a right wing mayor to? its ok as long as the mistress isnt council appointed and spent any council funds, but you know fuck her on the conference table?

    • felix 19.1
      9 February 2014 at 5:59 am

      Seeing as how it’s none of your business who the mayor or anyone else has sex with, it seems your only complaint is misuse of council furniture.

      Kinda puts all that outrage in perspective, doesn’t it?

    • lprent 19.2
      9 February 2014 at 6:57 am

      And what does that have to do with him performing hist duties of being mayor?

      It is just titillation for a pervert.

      We aren’t perverted like yourself with your nose firmly stuck in other peoples panties. That is why we don’t write stories about the slip and slide of other peoples private lives, including right wing politicians (lots of stories)

      Only Cameron Slater acts like that much of an arsehole.

      • tinfoilhat 19.2.1
        9 February 2014 at 7:55 am

        Interesting perspective and one which I disagree with.

        Just interested what your perspective would be if the mayor or one of his staff was outed for watch pornography while at their place of employment ?

        • One Anonymous Bloke 19.2.1.1
          9 February 2014 at 8:29 am

          What would your perspective be if he stole paper clips, or was drunk all the time, or any of the other infinite variety of things which aren’t consensual sex between adults and therefore none of your business?

          • tinfoilhat 19.2.1.1.1
            9 February 2014 at 9:28 am

            “What would your perspective be if he stole paper clips, or was drunk all the time, or any of the other infinite variety of things which aren’t consensual sex between adults and therefore none of your business?”

            My perspective would be that he would be unfit for the position of mayor of Auckland, pretty much as my opinion is of him at present.

            • One Anonymous Bloke 19.2.1.1.1.1
              9 February 2014 at 9:36 am

              So everyone who has an affair at work should be sacked?

              • RedBaronCV …
                9 February 2014 at 10:44 am

                Everyone who eats their lunch in the office should be sacked? That’s also a personal activity.
                WRT porn the usual rules are that you cannot watch through the office servers. If you are on your own ISP connection then it’s the same as watching at home. Pinching paperclips is theft, let us criminalise the entire country?

            • greywarbler 19.2.1.1.1.2
              9 February 2014 at 10:00 am

              Good tinfoilhat you have stated your firm belief. Now we can expect to hear no more from you on the matter.

              And further, have you considered the wisdom of a tinfoilhat in bright, hot summer? Your head and brains are probably being over-cooked. It would be wise to put on another, aerated, shady hat.
              This is an unofficial health warning.

    • Anne 19.3
      9 February 2014 at 11:06 am

      Actually f—–g mistresses and other ‘young’ ladies on office furniture is a well known activity amongst the rich and/or powerful. I know of a high profile legal beagle of yesteryear who had a penchant for performing on his office desk.

    • Chooky 19.4
      9 February 2014 at 3:03 pm

      +1 Jared….it wouldnt be so bad if he was young and handsome…out of control hormones and all that ….but no…he is old and wizened ….and certainly old enough to be wise enough to know better…… just a randy old dog getting his bollocks off…plus ….he could have at least had the decorum to choose a discreet, refined, non two- timing, non right-wing ,non social-climbing, non-ambitious, non- blabbing mistress…. and go to some private bedroom to get his rocks off

      …a Mayor of NZs largest city who is this incautious and indiscreet is out of control and needs further investigation imo

      it would be funny… but ….. there is too much smoke around that casino/ convention centre getting the go-ahead ( preying on the most vulnerable Aucklanders)…..and the other goings on at the commercial and cultural heart of Auckland.

      …so any money spent on opening up the can of worms is worth it imo……so good on Penny Bright …for applying a lot of sunshine and heat !

      ( and I am not a panty sniffer and I am not Patricia Bartlett)

  20. tc 20
    9 February 2014 at 10:43 am

    Spotlight needs to stay on the devious banks jnr (brewer) who leads this cabal with the media and political connections at his disposal.

    A snake of an individual who is very much at home on the nact team.

    • RedBaronCV 20.1
      9 February 2014 at 10:45 am

      Yes, I too think he should pay. Might deter further episodes like this.

      • tc 20.1.1
        9 February 2014 at 10:52 am

        Doug makay has served his masters well, where will nacts ‘corporate headkicker for hire’ show up next?

        Exceeded his powers, ensured EY had the maximum leeway possible, dumped the bill on akl ratepayers, so long suckers, thanks for the cash.

  21. Penny Bright 21
    9 February 2014 at 10:31 pm

    The issue here, in my considered opinion, is NOT whether Mayor Len Brown committed a SIN – but whether he committed a CRIME.

    Whose interests have Mayor Len Brown, (and Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse) been serving?

    If you haven’t yet checked out http://www.committeeforauckland.co,nz – membership – I respectfully suggest that you do.

    Penny Bright

  22. Hayden 22
    10 February 2014 at 1:50 pm

    “The councillors who have let Mr Brown off the hook for at least $200,000 need to explain how it is fair that ratepayers pick up most of the tab,” union executive director Jordan Williams said.

    “The amount is a token gesture and a slap in the face to Auckland ratepayers. It is a new low for Mr Brown. Does he only pay a fifth of his rates too?”

    What a fucking idiot. I think I’m going to do a review of how Jordan Williams came to be such a fucking idiot, and then bill him for it.

  23. tricledrown 23
    10 February 2014 at 10:20 pm

    Penny not so bright how about going after the pike river boss’s that’s a real crime .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • What happens after the war – Mariupol
    Mariupol, on the Azov Sea coast, was one of the first cities to suffer almost complete destruction after the start of the Ukraine War started in late February 2022. We remember the scenes of absolute destruction of the houses and city structures. The deaths of innocent civilians – many of ...
    Open ParachuteBy Ken
    2 days ago

  • Babies and benefits – no good news
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – Ten years ago, I wrote the following in a Listener column: Every year around one in five new-born babies will be reliant on their caregivers benefit by Christmas. This pattern has persisted from at least 1993. For Maori the number jumps to over one in three.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Should the RBNZ be looking through climate inflation?
    Climate change is expected to generate more and more extreme events, delivering a sort of structural shock to inflation that central banks will have to react to as if they were short-term cyclical issues. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours, as of 9:16 am on Thursday, April 18 are:Housing: Tauranga residents living in boats, vans RNZ Checkpoint Louise TernouthHousing: Waikato councillor says wastewater plant issues could hold up Sleepyhead building a massive company town Waikato Times Stephen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell on the public sector carnage, and misogyny as terrorism
    It’s a simple deal. We pay taxes in order to finance the social services we want and need. The carnage now occurring across the public sector though, is breaking that contract. Over 3,000 jobs have been lost so far. Many are in crucial areas like Education where the impact of ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    2 days ago

  • Meeting the Master Baiters
    Hi,A friend had their 40th over the weekend and decided to theme it after Curb Your Enthusiasm fashion icon Susie Greene. Captured in my tiny kitchen before I left the house, I ending up evoking a mix of old lesbian and Hillary Clinton — both unintentional.Me vs Hillary ClintonIf you’re ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago

  • How extreme was the Earth's temperature in 2023
    This is a re-post from Andrew Dessler at the Climate Brink blog In 2023, the Earth reached temperature levels unprecedented in modern times. Given that, it’s reasonable to ask: What’s going on? There’s been lots of discussions by scientists about whether this is just the normal progression of global warming or if something ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • Backbone, revisited
    The schools are on holiday and the sun is shining in the seaside village and all day long I have been seeing bunches of bikes; Mums, Dads, teens and toddlers chattering, laughing, happy, having a bloody great time together. Cheers, AT, for the bits of lane you’ve added lately around the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Ministers are not above the law
    Today in our National-led authoritarian nightmare: Shane Jones thinks Ministers should be above the law: New Zealand First MP Shane Jones is accusing the Waitangi Tribunal of over-stepping its mandate by subpoenaing a minister for its urgent hearing on the Oranga Tamariki claim. The tribunal is looking into the ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • What’s the outfit you can hear going down the gurgler? Probably it’s David Parker’s Oceans Sec...
    Buzz from the Beehive Point  of Order first heard of the Oceans Secretariat in June 2021, when David Parker (remember him?) announced a multi-agency approach to protecting New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and fisheries. Parker (holding the Environment, and Oceans and Fisheries portfolios) broke the news at the annual Forest & ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Bryce Edwards writes  – Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Matt Doocey doubles down on trans “healthcare”
    Citizen Science writes –  Last week saw two significant developments in the debate over the treatment of trans-identifying children and young people – the release in Britain of the final report of Dr Hilary Cass’s review into gender healthcare, and here in New Zealand, the news that the ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • A TikTok Prime Minister.
    One night while sleeping in my bed I had a beautiful dreamThat all the people of the world got together on the same wavelengthAnd began helping one anotherNow in this dream, universal love was the theme of the dayPeace and understanding and it happened this wayAfter such an eventful day ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago

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

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

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

  • Judicial appointments announced
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  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
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  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
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  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
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  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
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  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
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  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
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  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
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  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
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  • Government backing mussel spat project
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  • Government focused on getting people into work
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  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
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  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
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  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
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  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
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  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
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  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
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  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
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  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
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  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
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  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
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  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
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  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
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  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
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  • Finance Minister travels to Washington DC
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  • Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords
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  • Long Tunnel for SH1 Wellington being considered
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  • New Zealand condemns Iranian strikes
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  • Huge interest in Government’s infrastructure plans
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  • Health Minister thanks outgoing Health New Zealand Chair
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  • Roads of National Significance planning underway
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  • Navigating an unstable global environment
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  • NZ welcomes Australian Governor-General
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  • Pseudoephedrine back on shelves for Winter
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  • NZ and the US: an ever closer partnership
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  • Joint US and NZ declaration
    April 11, 2024 Joint Declaration by United States Secretary of State the Honorable Antony J. Blinken and New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs the Right Honourable Winston Peters We met today in Washington, D.C. to recommit to the historic partnership between our two countries and the principles that underpin it—rule ...
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