About the latest Colmar Brunton poll

Written By: - Date published: 7:55 am, September 28th, 2021 - 152 comments
Categories: act, Christopher Luxon, david seymour, greens, jacinda ardern, Judith Collins, labour, national, nz first, polls, Simon Bridges, uncategorized - Tags:

So the latest Colmar Brunton One News poll has been released.  And the results are:

The commentary is interesting.  Pundits claim that both Labour and National have suffered some damage.  The reality is that Labour is at levels that in any MMP election except for the last it would have dreamed of.  If in the future Labour repeated its result from the last election I would give up political activism because it would no longer be needed.  I would join up with Greenpeace and buy some super glue.

To repeat this result for Labour was better than any MMP result except for the last one.  And this result for National was worse than any MMP result except for 2002 which was pretty spectacularly bad.

Labour and Green are on 51%.  National and Act are on 40%.  This is still comfortable.  At the 2014 election the Labour-Green total was 36% by way of comparison.

New Zealand First’s surge is of concern.  If they made it back next election they would be a major impediment.  Now is the time for brave decisive leadership.  Now is not the time to allow the rantings of your grandfather talking about how it used to be to divert attention from the really important decisions we need to make to address future crises like, for instance, climate change.

Act is doing well.  There are many grumpy people around.  There has been loud concerted public commentary against the latest lockdown?  It is not as if Aotearoa is performing better than all of the OECD in terms of Covid deaths.  Well actually we are but judging from the commentary this feature is not relevant.  Democracy is a complicated beast.  Uninformed random reckons are numerically worth just as much as the most pristine rational intellectually informed opinions.  And there is a market for those who stroke ill informed opinions.

The leadership result was interesting.  There will be some effort to suggest that Jacinda’s 44% support rating is somehow a vote of no confidence.  For many years I have dreamed of this sort of result for a Labour leader.

Judith Collins is in major trouble.  The repeated leaking from her caucus reminds me of how Kevin Rudd undermined Julia Gillard.  The leaking was totally motivated by self interest and not by a desire to improve the common good.  Political parties with this sort of activity should be punished mercilessly.  Having a caucus with this level of shit fuckery happening in it should be reason for the electorate to never trust them again.

For Labour this is a good result, down from the stratospheric recent results but totally consistent with the mood of the electorate, that still celebrates our Covid status but is tiring of lockdowns.  And for National this is a catastrophe.  Their leader is operating at just over a tenth of the popularity levels of Labour’s leader.

For Judith the only question is when.  For Labour if they can overcome this latest Covid incursion I would expect their support to improve.

152 comments on “About the latest Colmar Brunton poll ”

  1. Gosman 1

    Labour and The Greens on 51% at this point in the election cycle with the pandemic and government responses foremost in voters minds is not as strong a position as you suggest. They do have another buffer in the 2% support that the Maori Party and the support for parties below the 5% threshold but we are only talking about a 4 or 5% swing needed for the Center right. That is certainly very possible in two years especially given the fact that the government is failing on a number of key areas like housing and the 3-waters debacle.

    • observer 1.1

      "Centre right" … ha ha.

      You can't be gung-ho for ACT's grubby race-baiting and still claim the centre. Pick one.

      You might want to check these numbers first …

      https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2021/05/newshub-reid-research-poll-the-race-relations-debate-kiwis-think-judith-collins-is-being-divisive.html

      • Michael 1.1.1

        Nothing "centre-Right" about ACT, or National under Crusher. A combined total of 40% tells me that the politics of hate and fear are doing well. A good result from Labour and Greens but no room for complacency.

    • lprent 1.2

      National and Act on 40% at this point in the election cycle with the pandemic and government responses foremost in voters minds is not as strong a position as you suggest. They do not have another buffer unless the grandfather vote swings their way – but of course he still remembers National from 1998.

      • Gosman 1.2.1

        Eh??? I don't understand the reference to grandfather vote and 1998. Perhaps your comment would have more impact if you took the time to explain that bit or is this just an internal joke for yourself?

        • roblogic 1.2.1.1

          IIRC it was when Shipley stabbed Jim Bolger in the back.. and Collins is nowhere near as competent as that lot

        • Barfly 1.2.1.2

          Duh…Winston Peters and the waka jumpers Gosman. Winston does not forget or forgive betrayal of such magnitude.

        • lprent 1.2.1.3

          Try reading the post for a change rather than skipping straight to comments. It makes sense if you can read..

          A robust debate isn’t made by someone shouting (or commenting) fast. It is made by responding to points raised by others as well as pushing your own views. Regrettably you seldom do the former. In case you do ‘t appear to have read the post providing providing debate context – it is no wonder that you are dazed and confused.

  2. observer 2

    Historical comparison: 2nd term, 1 year in. Key in 2012, heading for a 3rd term.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opinion_polling_for_the_2014_New_Zealand_general_election

    National's pollling then similar to Labour now, across a range of polls. But National had to do it all on their own (bar a couple of one-seat rats and mice). They did have the Maori Party onside, but that version of the party was not today's, and nor was National.

    Despite a lack of allies, Key won his 3rd term comfortably enough. Ardern's position is clearly stronger.

  3. Gezza 3

    “I would join up with Greenpeace and buy some super glue.”
    ………………………………..

    I’m new here, so forgive me if I’m a little slow on the uptake sometimes. But why would you buy superglue, exactly?

    I reckon a party to watch might also be Te Pāti Māori. They’ve a pretty slick website going & have a clear strategy to raise their profile with political stunts & authentic campaigning on Māori issues. They will compete strongly for a lot more votes from Māori voters.

    • I Feel Love 3.1

      Agree with you there Gezza, & I hope so. (& not just māori voters, I’ve voted for them in the past & I doubt I’m the only non māori to do so).

      • Gezza 3.1.1

        No, you’re not alone there. This Pākehā has voted Labour for candidate & Māori for party too. 👍🏼

        Altho I’m keeping an eye on Rawiri Waititi ti make sure he doesn’t lean too far into the realm of Pākehā-bashing for Māori votes.

    • Gosman 3.2

      What will that likely mean in terms of the Center Right versus Center Left bloc though?

      • Red Blooded One 3.2.1

        Perhaps with the rise of ACT we now have a Centre-Left block and a Right Block. There is so little of a Centre-Right anymore they would be under the margin of error. You can keep calling them Centre-Right to try and suit your purpose but calling a Wolf a Sheep doesn't make it Baa.

        • Gosman 3.2.1.1

          I suspect you ideological bias blinkers you to political reality.

          • Red Blooded One 3.2.1.1.1

            Pot meet kettle.

          • Ed1 3.2.1.1.2

            Which naturally applies to many people Gosman. Chris Finlayson has been selling himself to radio a bit in recent times – he described National as being a coalition between Liberals and Conservatives; he sees himself on the Liberal side of the party, able to come to accommodations with Labour to enable effective government (he referred to advice he received that to be effective, it is desirable for both government and opposition to reach agreement on about 70% of legislation). He implied that the rump of National left in Parliament is now almost entirely from the Conservative side; and that they will need significant change to return to power. Using the Liberal / Country party example from Australia would suggest a libertarian ACT party sharing far right economic policies with a socially conservative National party – probably with ACT dominant. Seymour claims to be picking up support from some former Green supporters, but I suspect that statement is more about shoring up the relationship with National than reality.

      • observer 3.2.2

        When the Centre Right have a bloc, we'll let you know.

        Are you posting from the USA?

    • Ad 3.3

      OMG you haven't been part of a strong activist group. You really missed out.

      It's how you disable their locks.

      • Gezza 3.3.1

        😳

        Why would Micky want to disable the Greens’ locks? 🤔

        (I can understand why someone might’ve wanted to disable Nándor Tánczos’s locks.)

        • Macro 3.3.1.1

          Gezza it's not the greens locks but the mining and oil drilling firms locks that the super glue is intended. Embuggerance is the name of the game.

        • Ad 3.3.1.2

          Do you know what Greenpeace do?

          • Gezza 3.3.1.2.1

            Lotsa stuff, but their NZ branch website keeps crashing & won't load on my iPad so…think I'll leave it at that, thanks.

    • Janice 3.4

      Labour and the Greens have lost women voters due to them pushing the sex self selection bill, which will erase women's safe and exclusive spaces from sports to toilets. I will be voting Te Pāti Māori if this bill goes through.

    • Robert Guyton 3.5

      For sticking your palm to your face, Gezza.

    • lprent 3.6

      But why would you buy superglue, exactly?

      It allows you to do all sorts of things like super gluing yourself to something that you do not want to be removed from. Google "activists and super glue".

      Here is an old article on the practice from 2008

    • mickysavage 3.7

      But why would you buy superglue, exactly?

      Expression of despair at the lack of action on climate change and an indication of a willingness to engage in more direct protest action.

    • Anne 3.8

      I think mickysavage might have been having a little humorous dig at Greenpeace who have a past reputation for gluing themselves to things. At least that is how I read it.

      Edit: oops. ms has already replied. Never mind.

  4. Jenny how to get there 4

    Greens N/C sad, sad , sad.

    • observer 4.1

      Why is it sad?

      The Greens' core support is higher than it once was. Previously getting up to 10+ depended on Labour being in trouble.

      In 2023, with an electorate anchor, the usual narrative ("can they stay above 5%?") will be replaced by "how much influence will they have in Ardern's 3rd term"?

      • Gosman 4.1.1

        They have to get traction on an issue of concern to more than just their core supporter base. They have failed to do that so far.

        • Muttonbird 4.1.1.1

          Err…the environment?

          • Margaritte 4.1.1.1.1

            nah there is no more support to be had from promoting 1080

          • Gosman 4.1.1.1.2

            They are failing to get any traction on the environment. Why is that do you think?

            • roy cartland 4.1.1.1.2.1

              Because you can't make an immediate fortune saving boring old trees and penguins. All you can do is avert catastrophe – for sake of OTHERS, to boot!

              And when your media makes it's dollar negating them, of course they're going to be hostile; forcing them to do crazy things just to get the oxygen.

              Gos and Andre, you could always contribute to, amplify and encourage their enviro work instead of Bradburying it. Since you seem to think it would be so nice.

            • Incognito 4.1.1.1.2.2

              Because the ute wheels are spinning too fast in the wet mud after the recent floodings all over NZ.

          • Andre 4.1.1.1.3

            Yeah, it would be nice if the current crop of Greens actually showed more than just a token smidge of interest in the environment.

            • weka 4.1.1.1.3.1

              Lol, lazy, stupid Greens with their Climate Minister flying across the planet in the middle of a pandemic to attend strategy meetings about the most important crisis for humans of all time.

              Centre lefties are happy with Labour/Ardern's less serious approach to the environment. However the Greens pulled Labour greenward. Well done Greens.

              • Barfly

                "Lol, lazy, stupid Greens with their Climate Minister flying across the planet"

                Seriously? There was/.is no remote attendance option. That's not Shaw's fault it's the bloody organisers either fly or don't go either way you will be damned. Please do better Weka.

                • weka

                  why are you suggesting I do better? I don't think anyone should be flying other than for essential reasons. Whether COP meetings count as essential, I don't know, the reasons for Shaw attending in person are sound, so maybe that applies to everyone? Seems more legit than say NZ letting in a million international flying tourists each year again.

            • tc 4.1.1.1.3.2

              +100 not so much Green party but more a light pastel rendition that's fading further.

              It appears that turei left and took their mojo with her

              • weka

                Snort. Turei got taken down and then Labour surged. Tell me about all the Labour voters that secretly want to vote GP but won't because the GP aren't left enough. No eye roll big enough for that.

                The GP policies are of course to the left of Labour still. NZ doesn't want a green government and apparently doesn't even want a workers party any more. Take that up with liberals (liberals and lefties slamming the Greens at teh same time as wanting a government with the kind of policies the Greens have is quite something to behold).

  5. Treetop 5

    I think this latest Colmar Brunton poll reflects what would National give and do for you in a Covid out break cycle?

    There is nothing better that National can do that the government are not doing or planning to do.

    Caution when it comes to opening up the country because there is no turning back once the flood gates are open.

    National has a stale leader who is not able to alter her political style which is playing the person and not the ball (a version of dirty politics).

  6. Robert Guyton 6

    I think the nature of The Greens is, and has long been, misunderstood. They will maintain their percentage of the overall vote always and it will not fall significantly nor rise significantly, save for some out-of-the-blue event. The green tribe is a fluctuating one, reacting to societal trends. There's movement in and out of the group, but it's form and bulk remains steady. There's a floor and a ceiling to their support. Presently, they are comfortably embedded in Government. The party's nature changes only slightly depending upon whether they are inside or outside of the tent. Their present situation is to be celebrated, in my opinion. They spent too long in Opposition or in the wilderness. This poll says to me, breathe easy 🙂

    • Ad 6.1

      Inhaling regularly is certainly evidence that one is indeed still alive. Something of a minimalist position for existence, but each to their own.

      Hopefully you went along to the full polling breakdown they showed in August.

      https://www.greens.org.nz/august_green_party_polling_update

      At the 2020 election the Greens got 7.9% and Act were on 7.6%.

      Quite possibly most of the Green solid supporters would feel the same way as you and it's sufficient to exist, whether one is in government or not.

      Act are showing the Greens that it's possible to get off your ass, do some fucking work, and get rewarded for it.

      • arkie 6.1.1

        Just one example of the Greens doing ‘some fucking work’ and we, as a nation, are rewarded when the Govt is forced to act:

        September 16, 2021 7:10 AM

        The Green Party is launching an open letter to the Minister for ACC asking for all birth injuries and trauma to be covered, and the letter has strong support from the sector.

        “Most injuries caused during childbirth aren’t covered by ACC, and data from ACC shows that over the past few years it has become harder to get birth injuries covered,” says Green Party spokesperson for ACC Jan Logie.

        The open letter is publicly supported by many organisations, such as the New Zealand College of Midwives, the Māori Women’s Welfare League, ACC Futures Coalition, and academics Dr Naomi Simmonds and Dr Michelle Wise.

        https://www.greens.org.nz/birth_injuries_must_be_covered_by_acc

        8:24 am today

        Thousands of women injured while giving birth will be eligible for ACC cover, under proposed changes being revealed today.

        The government estimates it will help between 17,000 to 18,000 women each year, and cost ACC around $25 million annually.

        In an exclusive interview, ACC Minister Carmel Sepuloni said it was “the right thing to do”.

        “It’s about fairness, and it is about making sure that women in this country get access to the ACC scheme to the same extent as what men do, and birth injuries can be incredibly serious.”

        https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/452440/government-reveals-proposed-acc-changes-to-cover-birth-injuries-the-right-thing-to-do

        • Patricia Bremner 6.1.1.1

          yessmiley Well done indeed.

        • Ad 6.1.1.2

          Hey great work on launching a letter Greens!

          Rise up that Minister and Leader of the Climate Emergency. Hold that letter high.

          Rise up that Minister for Homelessness. Blanket those homeless with copies of that letter.

          14% is in your grasp.

          • tc 6.1.1.2.1

            Rise up and go to another Bellamy's meal it seems.

          • arkie 6.1.1.2.2

            See the bit where the Govt is acting due to the pressure campaign? That's politics that's change-orientated rather than about gaining and maintaining seats in parliament.

            You often bemoan the lack of action by this Labour Govt, these petitions provide the impetus for them to do something, seems the Greens are more effective at that than these Labour Party conference working groups you're so keen on me joining.

            Keep on with your paternalistic derision of the GP and it's supporters, it amply demonstrates the 'born-to-rule' attitude of careerist politicians.

            • Ad 6.1.1.2.2.1

              We'll be waiting for change following the receipt of the letter.

              I certainly regularly have a crack at Labour, and also praise them when they are going well. I'm a Labour Party member and proud of it.

              Greens however almost never see anything but good in their party and never take any kind of critique well. They are all across this site and stupidly defensive no matter how pathetic their partys' performance.

              If the Greens do something better than a letter and a risible performance at a climate change conference, I'll be there singing their praises as well.

              • arkie

                What are you even talking about?

                The Govt is acting on the letter (and accompanying petition) as of today.

                I’m a Labour Party member and proud of it.

                And this is why you must continually shit on the Greens, to do otherwise would be to admit that they are the origin of any leftward movement in this country. This is why you get so defensive/offensive whenever anyone points out the disconnect between Ardern’s rhetoric on neo-liberalism, and how the party actually governs.

      • weka 6.1.2

        Or, maybe the Greens understand their own politics better and know that in the long game their energy is better spent at this time working on change rather than trying to compete with a very popular Labour leader.

        When Labour's leadership and caucus was having the same trouble that National are now, the Greens did better. It's not that ACT are hard workers and Greens are lazy, it's that the Greens want change not power. Understanding Green kaupapa on its own terms, whether one agrees with it or not, leads to better understanding of GP actions.

        Which isn't to say they're above criticism. But much of the critique I see is superficial and doesn't take into account what the GP actually do and want.

        • Ad 6.1.2.1

          The Greens are certainly not in danger of competing with Jacinda Ardern. On the contrary their delivery has been so poor that Ardern's popularity is simply carrying them.

          There's no point doing any substantive critique of any movement so content with standing still, because they see no need to change.

          • RedLogix 6.1.2.1.1

            That and the sad realisation I came to some years back that one of the biggest obstacles to getting to good environmental outcomes were a slew of anti-science, malthusian ideas entrenched among the trad green movements.

            Good intentions, unintended consequences.

            • Gezza 6.1.2.1.1.1

              Marama Davidson’s ill-conceived push for women to claim the C* word would have to be one of the most spectacular epic fails in Green Party history. While I know where she was coming from it was a gob-smacking thing for any politician to do. She’ll most likely be forever associated with that fiasco.

          • weka 6.1.2.1.2

            Lol, that's you just making shit up. And projecting perhaps through a Labour supporter lens. It's a stupid argument that goes nowhere. I'm more interested in looking at what is working than simply dissing whatever I don't like or don't understand.

            The Greens want change not power, and they're very good at advancing their objectives even without power. The lack of significant movement on climate isn't on Shaw/GP, it's on Ardern and the Labour caucus who hold the power that Shaw doesn't have. Shaw is making changes despite that. All power to him.

      • Ed1 6.1.3

        There has not been much work visible from ACT – do you have any examples? I see Seymour as picking the mood of National supporters better than Collins; his slogans are better, he does not deny that the New Zealand has done very well regarding the pandemic (or even acknowledge government success more than he has to), but tries to appear friendly and reasonable. He is also fortunate that Collins displays such extremes that a more reasoned position is not hard. . .

      • Robert Guyton 6.1.4

        ACT's reward will be another term in Opposition. The "work" they have done involves having Seymour bark more.

      • Barfly 6.1.5

        Rofl …… comparing the ACT and Greens percentage Ad? Act is feasting on on an extremely ill National . The Greens are unable to feast on a very robust Labour party. Your dislike of the Greens is affecting your judgement I believe.

  7. barry 7

    So 11% of people hate ballet?

  8. Ad 8

    In 2018 National were on 54% and Act were on 1%. So we can see the direction of travel.

    https://thestandard.org.nz/pollwatch-colmar-brunton-16-4-18/

    The Ardern-Labour Party is substantially more popular than anything under Clark, Lange, Kirk, or Nordmeyer. The more this level of dominance sustains, the more the right will tear itself down.

    • swordfish 8.1

      .

      The Ardern-Labour Party is substantially more popular than anything under Clark, Lange, Kirk, or Nordmeyer.

      Depends what you mean by "popular".

      Are you suggesting the Nordmeyer / Kirk / Lange / Clark Labour Parties never reached as high as 43% in opinion polls ? Because I can tell you all 4 exceeded that rating (and yes that even includes Nordy … in the first ever nationwide polls in the run-up to the 1960 & 1963 General Elections).

      • Patricia Bremner 8.1.1

        In the days of first past the post?

        • swordfish 8.1.1.1

          .

          Yep … but irrelevant … Ad's talking about unprecedented popularity specifically for the Labour Party … not for the Left as a whole.

          Either Labour specifically is more popular now than it's ever been … or it's not.

          [And, in fact, Ad’s assertion isn’t even true for the Left Bloc as a whole]

  9. Stuart Munro 9

    I wouldn't read too much into it – a bit of boredom setting in among the major parties, and ACT temporarily embiggened by despairing Gnats – doesn't really matter whether they stay or return to their fold – they won't have much effect on NZ.

    • Anne 9.1

      Yes. I was planning to comment along those lines.

      David Seymour thinks he is the reason why ACT is doing well. Typical of the narcissistic little chump that he is. In reality, it's all about a large chunk of disgruntled Nats who will return to the party the moment they get what they perceive to be a good leader. And we all know who that is going to be.

      • Gosman 9.1.1

        Except National has about as much support as they got at the last election and the entire Center Right vote has increased. This tends to suggest your analysis of ACT merely cannibalising National's supporter base is inaccurate. For it to be correct National would have successfully pilfered 6 percentage points from Labour and THEN lost 6 percent to ACT. Not really believable given the performance of National at the moment.

        • Gypsy 9.1.1.1

          Party vote comparisons 2020 election v latest poll:

          Labour 50% v 43%

          Green 8% v 8%

          National 26% v 26%

          ACT 7% v 14%

          Maori 1% v 2%

          NZF 5% v 3%

          (NZF actually got 4.6% in 2020).

          The only changes of any significance have been the drop in Labour's support (7%), and the rise in ACT's support (7%).

          I don't believe for one minute National are attracting votes from Labour and then shedding the same amount to ACT. My guess is Labour are shedding votes directly to ACT.

          • Gosman 9.1.1.1.1

            Exactly. This is something many people on the left here cannot grasp.

            • AB 9.1.1.1.1.1

              Oh I think we do – it's a phenomenon that is well- recognised, i.e. if timid social-democrat governments don't make progress on solving the problems that concern their natural constituency, some of those people will go looking for solutions on the far right. This phenomenon is seen by many as an explanation for Trump and for Boris Johnson taking UK Labour's 'red wall'. The voters who do this mostly end up with buyers remorse if the far right actually get power – but it's not really their fault.

            • Muttonbird 9.1.1.1.1.2

              It's cute how the ACT Party are desperate for it to be true huge numbers of left wing people are suddenly flocking to their ‘sensible’ polices.

              Gosman's day has been given over to pushing this fantasy.

              It's as if left wing votes hold more value and importance for them than right wing votes…

          • Kevin Warburton 9.1.1.1.2

            So basically Nat voters that had switched from Nats to Labour have now switched again this time over to ACT. I would contend that 7% vote difference in Labour's vote is due to the soft Nats switcharuni mostly. Longterm soft Labour vote most likely to switch if to Greens or NZFirst or to Maori Party rather than to ACT or Nats.

            I've voted Alliance/Greens & Labor my entire voting life while being a member of one far left organization or another over the last 27 years. I will never vote ACT or Nats but based on Labour/Greens lack of achievements & not having courage of conviction they've lost my vote for next election. I thought about voting NZFirst last election as a thank you for supporting a Labour …but boy is there some ingratitude to Winnie from woke so-called Labour Leftists. I regret not doing so coz I thought they'd get over the line.

            As long as there is no real left party to reign in pc/wokeism and neo-liberal internationalist globalism the NZF come closest. I'm no longer going to let the perfect get in the way of the good. If I can't have a real socialist party I'll settle for a left-nationalist one.

            Next election I'm voting NZF and switching to Maori electoral roll to vote for Maori Party candidate.

            • Gypsy 9.1.1.1.2.1

              "So basically Nat voters that had switched from Nats to Labour have now switched again this time over to ACT. "

              Yep, that's my 'reckon'.

              "…but based on Labour/Greens lack of achievements & not having courage of conviction they've lost my vote for next election."

              I am involved in a grass roots environmental group, and most of the other participants are considerably to the left of my politics. They are mostly sharing similar sentiments to yours, particularly about the Greens.

              I'm a bit more defensive of Labour's situation. If they are to govern long term (2-3 terms) they need to be the 'broad church' that Clark and Key achieved, drawing support from the centre and soft voters on each side. That dissapoints some of their supporters, but it's just pragmatic politics.

              • Kevin Warburton

                Yeah i get that some pragmatism is necessary but the all things to all (most) people ends up kind of being no things to anyone. Broad church parties are a legacy of two-party dominated FPP with MMP we still haven't transitioned fully to more honed/focused parties. It's kind of ridiculous that religious conservatives, right libertarians, Social-Economic Liberals and right nationalists can be clumped in same party eg Nats (up to now) or on other side of aisle Socialists, SD, DS, Left Libertarians, Liberals and neo-Liberals all cheek to jowl within Labour. With Nat implosion leaving rump dominated by religious types with Nat Liberals decimated and rise of right libertarian ACT maybe it's time for more shake ups politically. We need a new classical Liberal Party, a new explicitly Socialist Party, a pure Green Party that's neither getting distracted by wokeism nor capitulating to capitalism. Parties that are more honest, straight up where they stand rather than ones that are tacking left or right according to different leaders/factional wins or trying to please everybody. I know I'm dreaming, but one can hope!

        • Anne 9.1.1.2

          The cannibalising of the National vote began well before the last election. It had been slowly building up since John Key quit the scene in 2016.

          • Gosman 9.1.1.2.1

            What evidence do you have for that view?

            • Gypsy 9.1.1.2.1.1

              In the week that John Key announced his resignation (5th December 2016), National polled at 45%.

              Between then and 1 August 2017 (when Jacinda Ardern became Leader of the Opposition) National's lowest poll result was 43%, their highest was 49%.

              At the 2017 election, National's vote was 44.4%, 0.6% below that poll almost a year earlier.

              After the 2017 election, National polled regularly in the mid to high 40’s. The game changer was Covid, and that’s evidenced in the polls that followed the first lockdown.

              National’s polling remained extraordinarily high until March 2020. What cannibalised it was Covid, and then the extraordinary antics of the party since. The timing of Key’s departure was a mere blip.

              • Gypsy

                I forgot to mention that for 3 months after the Christchrch Mosque shooting, National did drop into the low 40's, in fact into the 30's in one poll. They then bounced back into the mid 40's in early June.

              • Drowsy M. Kram

                It was a minor miracle of 2017 (or major curse, depending on your PoV) that Labour (on 36.9%) cobbled together our government against a 44.4% party vote for National. Suspect there's more than a few still scratching their heads about how that, or indeed MMP, was ever allowed to happen.

                Compared to the 2017 GE, in current indicative polls Labour (42%), the Greens (9%) and particularly ACT (0.5 –> 13.5%) are all riding higher, while National's vote is down a whopping 18%.

                Early days, but how's this for a positive opposition National party 2023 election campaign slogan: The Only Way is UP !

                National just have to 'ardern UP and harmonise in the right key smiley

        • Stuart Munro 9.1.1.3

          and the entire Center Right vote has increased.

          A pretty ambitious claim for a single poll.

          But I guess when ambitious claims are all you've got, you flaunt them.

    • Stephen D 9.2

      Pretty much.

      Mid term polls often give succor to the low and the lonely. Just as theyhave done here.

      Once Mr and Mrs Voter actually have a look at some of ACT's policies, the gloss will come off Seymour's charm.

      Under "insert name of a National Politician here" they will probably rise into the low 30s. Winston will grab 4, Act sink to low teens.

      Labour and the Greens to govern with another handsome majority.

  10. tc 10

    Looking at the graphic I didn't realize we had 5 leaders.

    Bridges/luxon right behind Judith my how apt. Which one has the cutlery ?

    • Patricia Bremner 10.1

      All of them have knives tc, there-in lies their problem.

      • tc 10.1.1

        Problem ? The msm appears entertained by it as the articles pretty much write themselves.

        Grab a piece from the brash/bridges/muller era, 'find and replace' remove references to events, place recent events in and ta dah.

  11. Pete 11

    In October 203 there could be a private cup of tea in Mt Eden where Seymour offers Bridges the Deputy PM's position.

  12. Cricklewood 12

    Winston I suspect is going to find fertile ground this time… Covid response, Three Waters, S.E.A's, He Puapua etc can see him easily getting over 5 percent plenty of traditionally blue rural vote went Labours way last election and I can see him picking a decent chunk of that especially if the Nats are still rudderless.

    • Gezza 12.1

      Hmmm. One should never rule out completely yet another Lazarus-like rise from the dead for that silver fox, Peters, I suppose.

      But the number of folk who will blindly respond to Peters’ dog-whistling & wrecking-ball style of politicking by voting for him & NZF must by now be rather diminished, many having already reached their age-related expiry dates, surely?

      He’s probably the untrustworthiest politician ever to serve in any NZ government.

      • roblogic 12.1.1

        Peters has more principles than National's dirty politics operators. Splitting from that shower might have endangered him politically but probably saved his soul from eternal condemnation

        (and going into coalition with Labour saved NZ from a horrible fate in 2016)

        • Gezza 12.1.1.1

          The problem with Peters’ principles is they’re so pliable. They can go out the window till next time if he sees it’s to his advantage to forget or modify them. That’s partly why he’s so untrustworthy.

          Coalition partners can never be sure what they’re getting when they sign Peters up.

          I do miss that pompous People’s Champion, the First Minister of The Provinces though. He might have been a complete tosser sometimes, but least Jones was highly entertaining.

        • Ad 12.1.1.2

          You don't need principles when you have a coalition agreement so tight it's pretty close to a contract.

          NZF delivered like the milkman last time on what they promised.

      • Cricklewood 12.1.2

        There'll be plenty ready to hear the message in the rural towns, especially while National is in disarray and looking at the board selections they've disregarded the rural vote somewhat…

        Im thinking there will be a decent chunk who voted Labour for the first time ever last election and Winston is uniquely placed to win some of those voters especially if Covid has passed and he can get his townhall meetings going around the country.

      • lprent 12.1.3

        Problem is that he (and his party) primary demographics gets fed by people moving into it.

        After watching this for the last 30 odd years with people making nearly identical comments to your one. I think I can definitively say that you are wrong.

        I think that he just identified a permanent standing political demographic wave.and exploited it.

        • Gezza 12.1.3.1

          Now that I think more about it, you’re probably right. Ihaven’t thought to compare the numbers of votes Peters & NZF get.

          The fascinating thing about Peters is he frequently simply doesn’t deliver what he promised to his voters, pissing them off. Ending up where has this election. Out in the cold.

          Why anybody who’s studied his track record still votes for him I haven’t the foggiest.

          • Ad 12.1.3.1.1

            From his last coalition agreement, what did NZF not achieve?

            • Muttonbird 12.1.3.1.1.1

              He was going to add value to forestry. Instead, saw mills close.

            • Cricklewood 12.1.3.1.1.2

              Re-election….

              But seriously I think some were disappointed that some 'bottom lines' didnt quite make it into the coalition agreement. Not suprising really because Winston was quire good at picking up single issue voters…

              • Gezza

                The NZF/Labour coalition agreements got a pretty extensive list of NZF priority policies. I won't bother going thru them all & checking what got done & what didn't. Too knackered to concentrate properly, atm.

                Been a busy day here.

                Quite a few got honoured & implemented, from a quick scan. But I don't think ALL did. And they might not have included some of Peters' evergreens like a Referendum on the Māori seats – which always appeals to the Mâori-bashing / anti-Waitangi Tribunal element of NZF's voters – imo, & based on comments on other blogs that I've read and/or posted on.

      • Kevin Warburton 12.1.4

        Bullshit! Despised by many on both woke left and on economic right means he must be doing something right. But despised doesn't equal untrustworthy LOL as he's been entrusted as Treasurer, Deputy PM, Foreign Affairs Minister & as acting PM etc If he's over the line next election, he'll be entrusted in some similar role yet again if needed by either right or 'left' to enable formation of government.

        • Gezza 12.1.4.1

          Yeah, I hsve to admit Kevin that once he’s in the Foreign Minister’s job he does it perfectly – altho that speaks to his natural ability to talk out of both sides of his mouth at the same time. As a former public servant I approved of the way he always batted strongly for his Ministry & his staff.

          The Treasurer’s job was created for him. Not really sure what he did in that job. Didn’t seem to be needed after he left it.

    • Ad 12.2

      NZFirst at 3% at this part of the cycle gives very good odds that they will gain 5%.

      At current trajectory Labour will need him to form government.

      • lprent 12.2.1

        Yep and this time he has been out of government. The bounce this time is likely to be strongish heading up to the election..

        Especially with National looking like outof the water fish ripe for gutting.

  13. DukeEll 13

    National caucus leaking like this is more Chris Carter than Kevin Rudd

  14. dv 14

    From Martyn Bradbury re ACT policies

    https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2021/09/28/tvnz-poll-the-rise-of-act/

    ACT’s sudden rise because of National’s implosion means much of their crazy far undergrad right wing policy is not being examined at all…

    • Cut and freeze the Minimum wage
    • Interest back on all student loans
    • No Kiwsaver subsidy
    • Cancel winter energy payment
    • Dump all climate crisis legislation
    • no more best start payments for families with new borns
    • cut welfare payments
    • no tax credits for research and development
    • cuts to working for families
    • $7b a year cut in public services
    • Abolish Maori seats
    • Abolish Human Rights Commission
    • Ad 14.1

      The rest of his commentary is a wee tad over the top.

    • Barfly 14.2

      Act has taken the beat the poor mantle from National…maybe those policies are quite attractive to many erstwhile National voters. Or perhaps Labour are being punished for treating the poor with humanity and compassion instead of beatings.

      • Cricklewood 14.2.1

        What humanity? More than ever in 'emergency housing' record rent increases… there's not much humanity in not having a secure affordable roof over your head.

        • garibaldi 14.2.1.1

          Look, let's face it – up around 40% of people don't follow politics. They voted for Key because he was a "successful business man so he should be able to fix NZ ", then they voted for Ardern because she "is so kind", now they're moving to Seymour because he is "genuine". They can't vote Collins because she is disingenuous. Basically we are caught up in personality culture wars instead of policy platforms , thanks mainly to the media with their “gotcha” moments.

    • Muttonbird 14.3
      • abolish the NZ Screen Production Grant

      This will kill the $3.5B NZ film and TV industry stone cold dead overnight.

      • Gosman 14.3.1

        Then it is not an viable industry if it requires government subsidies to operate. There are plenty of work available for high skilled people in NZ such as IT and in the building sector. We can re-deploy people in to areas that would provide benefits to more NZers and not line the pocket of Hollywood financiers.

        • Muttonbird 14.3.1.1

          This is a bizarre position to take for a party which is supposed to be about small business and innovation. Equally bizarre to crush an export industry in favour of domestic industry.

          The truth is, ACT hates arts and culture. They believe it frivolous and not worth public patronage in any form. What a drab world it would be if libertarians were taken seriously at all.

          • arkie 14.3.1.1.1

            not worth public patronage in any form

            Correct, but private patronage is in the party DNA

            Alan Gibbs was active in the establishment of ACT New Zealand, a libertarian political party that was formed in 1994.

            Gibbs is one of New Zealand's leading art collectors, and since 1991 has been establishing a sprawling 1,000 acres (4.0 km2) sculpture park at Gibbs Farm, which is located on Kaipara Harbour on New Zealand's North Island, 50 kilometres (31 mi) north of Auckland in the Rodney district.

            https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Gibbs

            https://www.gibbsfarm.org.nz/

          • Gosman 14.3.1.1.2

            Why is an export industry any more beneficial to an economy than say an import one? Both serve a market and allow people to get goods and services they need and both pay taxes on any profits and wages. The import one also collects GST.

            • Muttonbird 14.3.1.1.2.1

              I'm not an economist but from what I've heard it is important to earn more than you spend, on all levels.

              ACT want to chip away at certain unworthy billion dollar export industries. I'm sure National will provide the handbrake to that.

              • Nic the NZer

                That would be an unfortunate belief for an economist to have, as the net trade surpluses (deficits) of all nations add up to zero at all times.

                Or similar to something Krugman quipped, Earth has yet to establish trade with Mars.

        • McFlock 14.3.1.2

          Still thinking of people as perfectly fungible tokens in some sort of game like Sim City, huh.

          • Gosman 14.3.1.2.1

            Are you stating the highly skilled people in the film industry in NZ could not use their talents in other areas of the economy?

            • McFlock 14.3.1.2.1.1

              No, just as I'm sure that you're not claiming that every single person in the entertainment industry has skills transferable to industries "such as IT and in the building sector".

        • roy cartland 14.3.1.3

          Film and arts skills aren't necessarily transferable to IT. And art is more than an 'industry'. Might as well just say that Parliament isn't a viable industry, I mean Seymore's certainly had quite the pretty handout from govt himself.

          • Gosman 14.3.1.3.1

            He's a public servant. Do you think public servants pay is a handout from government?

            • Incognito 14.3.1.3.1.1

              Oh, FFS, please don’t insult our intelligence here on TS with that “[David Seymour]’s a public servant” claptrap.

            • Brigid 14.3.1.3.1.2

              Seymour's pay is a handout from 100% of tax payers for the benefit of about 12% (or what ever the latest poll declares as his support)

              Good grief that sounds like socialism

        • Incognito 14.3.1.4

          You’re correct that it is not viable if the filmmakers decide to go elsewhere instead of NZ.

          The subsidy scheme is a rebate scheme on money spent here in NZ. It is part of an incentive package. You sound a tad disingenuous or silly when you object to these principles of doing business, which are commonplace in the business world. Your objection is ideological in that Government should butt out of such deals, stick to a skeleton of core duties, and leave the rest to businesses operating in unencumbered free market. Mate, you’re dreaming!

    • Pete 14.4

      Missing:

      • Most revolutionary change in NZ schooling ever.
  15. coreyjhumm 15

    I agree with everything you've said here except Nzf returning is concerning how?

    The only handbrake on Labour is Labour. If now is the time for real leadership…wheres the leadership?!? Housing market out of control, inequality out of control, health system still not up to scratch per Capita, mental health is still a mess, welfare is still in dribbles and we're doing absolutely bugger all on climate.

    Nz first didn't stop labour at all from having the best covid response in the world in 2020 and arguably saved labour from itself because labour could blame nzf for not delivering and nzf stopped the more divisive social justice stuff. Without Winston there wouldn't be a 6th labour govt we'd most likely be in a fifth term of national with Bill English would have a majority. Yuck!

    I'd rather the disgruntled working class votes got to nzf than act. I'll never understand the lefts hatred for NZF other than still being mad about 1996. Nevermind he finally broke the unwritten convention that the largest party wins in 2017 and helped provide an incredibly stable government for the following three years.

    I like Winston. He makes parliament interesting, hates national as much as I do but is smart enough to play the system and get as much as possible by being able to work with both parties rather than settling for crumbs, id rather a national govt work with nzf and be blunted from doing neoliberal dogma than a nat/act govt.

    I personally want a labour/top govt because our times do call for radical leadership and as a gay man from a mixed race working class family I can say rabid identity politics, hate speech legislation and dribble increases to benefits while ignoring the housing crisis, and mental health crisis is not radical leadership.

    Yes this govt is good in emergencies and Ardern has been a great leader during covid but she lacks the vision necessary to take advantage of the crisis and rebuild nz better for a post covid world.

    I'd rather tops radical centerism than labours bland cautious centerism and without Winston Peters parliament tv is an unwatchable snoozefest, there are no good performers in parliament atm and whenever I watch parliament I can't help but think of how there's no potential successor to Ardern in labours caucus and how much of the 2017 class is not getting leadership roles because the 2008-2017 oppose mp crowd are getting all the leadership roles and most of them will retire at the end of this govt leaving a huge caucus with no ministerial experience.

    Anyway if that sounded angry it's not I just don't think nzf is a concern. The coalition worked incredibly well together and Labours lack of vision is the true handbrake on Labour.

    • roy cartland 15.1

      I often wonder if there's truth to Chris Trotter's (I think?) theory that Winston serves as a lightning rod for the anti-måori, anti-woke old-fashioned hatred present in so many of his constituency without ever really enacting any of their policies. Immigration continues; te reo is now a cultural juggernaut, ToW claims are being progressed and settled by both Nat and Lab.

      Sure, he's vile and contemptible at times, but being a handbrake is still better than being an active monster like the ACT crowd. He's best in oppo, where he can be as outrageous and entertaining as he likes.

      • Cricklewood 15.1.1

        I suspect given the opportunity he'll sit on the cross benches and force everything on an issue by issue basis this time around… he wont go with the Nats and I suspect he's a bit burnt re He Puapua the man does hold a grudge.

      • Nic the NZer 15.1.2

        I see it as more universal than particular to some politician. The way to have a long career is to have a significant constituancy for a long time. If you achieve something your constituancy can and will move on to other offerings.

        Much as many would like to claim National are a white nationalist party, they have achieved bugger all in policy about that (usually running massive immigration rates in practice).

        Unfortunately party funders expect a better return on their investment however.

      • Kevin Warburton 15.1.3

        Plenty of anti-woke Maori or pro-Maori around. I'm know I'm not the only one. PS society sees me as Pakeha so I hear the racist anti-woke occasionally, but I'm also part-Maori and occasionally hear Maori both left and right espouse anti-woke sentiment.

    • Kat 15.2

      "Ardern has been a great leader during covid but she lacks the vision necessary to take advantage of the crisis and rebuild nz better for a post covid world…."

      How do you know she lacks vision, what are you basing this assertion on and just what is your vision of a "post covid world"……??

    • Gezza 15.3

      coreyjhumm: “Anyway if that sounded angry it’s not I just don’t think nzf is a concern. The coalition worked incredibly well together and Labours lack of vision is the true handbrake on Labour.”
      ………………………………………

      No it doesn’t sound angry, it sounds perfectly logical, rational & clearly explains your reasoning for the views you state. I’m finding It worth paying attention to your comments & reading them carefully. There isn’t anything in your comments above that I disagree with. Peters certainly has performed useful roles in the 2017 government.

      I don’t think Shane Jones did NZF a lot of good. judging by conments on blogs he was widely perceived to have seriously underperformed on the delivery of hood numbers of permanent or long-term jobs thru the Provincial Growth Fund.

      Plus, while he was having a good time being bombastic & flippant, & even I had a larf along with him sometimes, he came across as a buffoon to those witb a sense of humour subordinate to their desire for many more concrete results from the PGF.

      I found it hard to assess how he was regarded by the wider voting public but when chatting to people about him on occasions most seemed to think little of him, or that he was a prat.

  16. bwaghorn 16

    The left block better sort out this SNA Land grab bullshit or this non natvoter will have to hold his nose very tight come 2023.

    • Cricklewood 16.1

      Its an interesting one that, I have a colleague who is from the Far North from how he tells it his whanau are pretty irate talking about going to the Waitangi tribunal over it… ancestral lands etc etc

    • Gypsy 16.2

      Three Waters is going to be a huge problem for them as well.

    • bwaghorn 16.3

      Had a chat to a farm consultant I used to work with, top man ,has been involved in sustainable farming for 20+ years.

      He thinks it's a dog. There is alot of scattered totara in in the taumarunui area , he says that will be enough for land to be sna'd .

      Just read about a guy who the council tried to sna 200 ha ,that's 1/3 of his farm ..

    • Robert Guyton 16.4

      How many voters will own land that will attract a SNA?

      Very few votes involved.

  17. I have to agree with Jim Bolger, The only poll that counts is on election day.

    How many days away is that? The only winners from polls are pollsters.

    They get paid.

    Has anyone done retrospective analyses of poll "findings".

    Have they been published in peer reviewed journals.

  18. Forget now 18

    Full CB report is out now:

    https://www.colmarbrunton.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/22-26-September-2021_1-NEWS-Colmar-Brunton-Poll-report_PRELIM.pdf

    Some interesting tidbits that 1news ignored:

    • Vaccination question has changed from personal intention (which was starting to build up a nice trendline) to mandatory vaccination.

    The majority of eligible New Zealand voters (61%) support mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for those aged 18+ (with the exception of those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons). However, voters are less comfortable with making them mandatory for those aged 12+; 44% support this. One in three voters (35%) are opposed to the idea of mandatory vaccinations for COVID-19, while 4% are unsure.

    • More Green party supporters (77%) & Pacific peoples (66%) want to change the county's official name to either; Aotearoa, or Aotearoa New Zealand, than Māori (58%) or the average population (41%). Just 1% did not express an opinion. Personally I'd go for Aotearoa Zealand, and miss out the "New" entirely.
    • Chlöe Swarbrick has gone from 2% preferred PM in May back to 0.8% (equal to March, but that was still higher than any previous result). Well eclipsing parliamentary co-leaders Marama Davidson (0.3%) & James Shaw (0.1%). It seems an electorate seat does get you mana.
    • Winston Peters has also dropped back to March's result (0.7%) after reaching 1% in May (he hasn't been higher than that since the 2020 election). Shane Jones has got 0.1% (1 person from the 1001 polled), which is at least better than his unbroken string of zeros up to then.
    • The top 5 preferred PM results are:
    1. at 44% Jacinda Ardern
    2. at 21% Don’t know
    3. at 11% David Seymour
    4. at 5% Judith Collins
    5. at 4% None

    As Always:

    The maximum sampling error is approximately ±3.1%-points at the 95% confidence level. This is the sampling error for a result around 50%. Results higher and lower than 50% have a smaller sampling error. For example, results around 10% and 5% have sampling errors of approximately ±1.9%-points and ±1.4%-points, respectively, at the 95% confidence level.

    These sampling errors assume a simple random sample of 1,000 eligible voters.

    It should be noted that any demographic sub-group analysis (e.g., by age or gender) will be based on a smaller set of interviews and so will have a wider sampling error.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Infrastructure & home building slumping on Govt funding freeze
    New Zealand now has the fourth most depressed construction sector in the world behind China, Qatar and Hong Kong. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy at 8:46am on Thursday, May 2:The Lead: ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 hour ago
  • Brainwashed People Think Everyone Else is Brainwashed
    Hi,I am just going to state something very obvious: American police are fucking crazy.That was a photo gracing the New York Times this morning, showing New York City police “entering Columbia University last night after receiving a request from the school.”Apparently in America, protesting the deaths of tens of thousands ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    4 hours ago
  • Peters’ real foreign policy threat is Helen Clark
    Winston Peters’ much anticipated foreign policy speech last night was a work of two halves. Much of it was a standard “boilerplate” Foreign Ministry overview of the state of the world. There was some hardening up of rhetoric with talk of “benign” becoming “malign” and old truths giving way to ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    5 hours ago
  • NZ’s trans lobby is fighting a rearguard action
    Graham Adams assesses the fallout of the Cass Review — The press release last Thursday from the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls didn’t make the mainstream news in New Zealand but it really should have. The startling title of Reem Alsalem’s statement — “Implementation of ‘Cass ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    12 hours ago
  • Your mandate is imaginary
    This open-for-business, under-new-management cliché-pockmarked government of Christopher Luxon is not the thing of beauty he imagines it to be. It is not the powerful expression of the will of the people that he asserts it to be. It is not a soaring eagle, it is a malodorous vulture. This newest poll should make ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    17 hours ago
  • 14,000 unemployed under National
    The latest labour market statistics, showing a rise in unemployment. There are now 134,000 unemployed - 14,000 more than when the National government took office. Which is I guess what happens when the Reserve Bank causes a recession in an effort to Keep Wages Low. The previous government saw a ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    20 hours ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Discontent and gloom dominate NZ’s political mood
    Three opinion polls have been released in the last two days, all showing that the new government is failing to hold their popular support. The usual honeymoon experienced during the first year of a first term government is entirely absent. The political mood is still gloomy and discontented, mainly due ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    20 hours ago
  • Taking Tea with 42 & 38.
    National's Finance Minister once met a poor person.A scornful interview with National's finance guru who knows next to nothing about economics or people.There might have been something a bit familiar if that was the headline I’d gone with today. It would of course have been in tribute to the article ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    21 hours ago
  • Beware political propaganda: statistics are pointing to Grant Robertson never protecting “Lives an...
    Rob MacCulloch writes – Throughout the pandemic, the new Vice-Chancellor-of-Otago-University-on-$629,000 per annum-Can-you-believe-it-and-Former-Finance-Minister Grant Robertson repeated the mantra over and over that he saved “lives and livelihoods”. As we update how this claim is faring over the course of time, the facts are increasingly speaking differently. NZ ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    22 hours ago
  • Winding back the hands of history’s clock
    Chris Trotter writes – IT’S A COMMONPLACE of political speeches, especially those delivered in acknowledgement of electoral victory: “We’ll govern for all New Zealanders.” On the face of it, the pledge is a strange one. Why would any political leader govern in ways that advantaged the huge ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    22 hours ago
  • Paula Bennett’s political appointment will challenge public confidence
     Bryce Edwards writes – The list of former National Party Ministers being given plum and important roles got longer this week with the appointment of former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett as the chair of Pharmac. The Christopher Luxon-led Government has now made key appointments to Bill ...
    Point of OrderBy xtrdnry
    22 hours ago
  • Business confidence sliding into winter of discontent
    TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy at 10:06am on Wednesday, May 1:The Lead: Business confidence fell across the board in April, falling in some areas to levels last seen during the lockdowns because of a collapse in ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    24 hours ago
  • Gordon Campbell on the coalition’s awful, not good, very bad poll results
    Over the past 36 hours, Christopher Luxon has been dong his best to portray the centre-right’s plummeting poll numbers as a mark of virtue. Allegedly, the negative verdicts are the result of hard economic times, and of a government bravely set out on a perilous rescue mission from which not ...
    1 day ago
  • New HOP readers for future payment options
    Auckland Transport have started rolling out new HOP card readers around the network and over the next three months, all of them on buses, at train stations and ferry wharves will be replaced. The change itself is not that remarkable, with the new readers looking similar to what is already ...
    1 day ago
  • 2024 Reading Summary: April (+ Writing Update)
    Completed reads for April: The Difference Engine, by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling Carnival of Saints, by George Herman The Snow Spider, by Jenny Nimmo Emlyn’s Moon, by Jenny Nimmo The Chestnut Soldier, by Jenny Nimmo Death Comes As the End, by Agatha Christie Lord of the Flies, by ...
    2 days ago
  • At a glance – Clearing up misconceptions regarding 'hide the decline'
    On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
    2 days ago
  • Road photos
    Have a story to share about St Paul’s, but today just picturesPopular novels written at this desk by a young man who managed to bootstrap himself out of father’s imprisonment and his own young life in a workhouse Read more ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Paula Bennett’s political appointment will challenge public confidence
    The list of former National Party Ministers being given plum and important roles got longer this week with the appointment of former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett as the chair of Pharmac. The Christopher Luxon-led Government has now made key appointments to Bill English, Simon Bridges, Steven Joyce, Roger Sowry, ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago
  • NZDF is still hostile to oversight
    Newsroom has a story today about National's (fortunately failed) effort to disestablish the newly-created Inspector-General of Defence. The creation of this agency was the key recommendation of the Inquiry into Operation Burnham, and a vital means of restoring credibility and social licence to an agency which had been caught lying ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago
  • Winding Back The Hands Of History’s Clock.
    Holding On To The Present: The moment a political movement arises that attacks the whole idea of social progress, and announces its intention to wind back the hands of History’s clock, then democracy, along with its unwritten rules, is in mortal danger.IT’S A COMMONPLACE of political speeches, especially those delivered in ...
    2 days ago
  • Sweet Moderation? What Christopher Luxon Could Learn From The Germans.
    Stuck In The Middle With You: As Christopher Luxon feels the hot breath of Act’s and NZ First’s extremists on the back of his neck and, as he reckons with the damage their policies are already inflicting upon a country he’s described as “fragile”, is there not some merit in reaching out ...
    2 days ago
  • A clear warning
    The unpopular coalition government is currently rushing to repeal section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act. The clause is Oranga Tamariki's Treaty clause, and was inserted after its systematic stealing of Māori children became a public scandal and resulted in physical resistance to further abductions. The clause created clear obligations ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago
  • Poll results and Waitangi Tribunal report go unmentioned on the Beehive website – where racing tru...
    Buzz  from the Beehive The government’s official website – which Point of Order monitors daily – not for the first time has nothing much to say today about political happenings that are grabbing media headlines. It makes no mention of the latest 1News-Verian poll, for example.  This shows National down ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago
  • Listening To The Traffic.
    It Takes A Train To Cry: Surely, there is nothing lonelier in all this world than the long wail of a distant steam locomotive on a cold Winter’s night.AS A CHILD, I would lie awake in my grandfather’s house and listen to the traffic. The big wooden house was only a ...
    2 days ago
  • Comity Be Damned! The State’s Legislative Arm Is Flexing Its Constitutional Muscles.
    Packing A Punch: The election of the present government, including in its ranks politicians dedicated to reasserting the rights of the legislature in shaping and determining the future of Māori and Pakeha in New Zealand, should have alerted the judiciary – including its anomalous appendage, the Waitangi Tribunal – that its ...
    2 days ago
  • Ending The Quest.
    Dead Woman Walking: New Zealand’s media industry had been moving steadily towards disaster for all the years Melissa Lee had been National’s media and communications policy spokesperson, and yet, when the crisis finally broke, on her watch, she had nothing intelligent to offer. Christopher Luxon is a patient man - but he’s not ...
    2 days ago
  • Will political polarisation intensify to the point where ‘normal’ government becomes impossible,...
    Chris Trotter writes –  New Zealand politics is remarkably easy-going: dangerously so, one might even say. With the notable exception of John Key’s flat ruling-out of the NZ First Party in 2008, all parties capable of clearing MMP’s five-percent threshold, or winning one or more electorate seats, tend ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Tuesday, April 30
    TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 10:30am on Tuesday, May 30:Scoop: NZ 'close to the tipping point' of measles epidemic, health experts warn NZ Herald Benjamin PlummerHealth: 'Absurd and totally unacceptable': Man has to wait a year for ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Why Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating in the country
    Bryce Edwards writes – Polling shows that Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any mayor in the country. Siting at -12 per cent, the proportion of constituents who disapprove of her performance outweighs those who give her the thumbs up. This negative rating is ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Worst poll result for a new Government in MMP history
    Luxon will no doubt put a brave face on it, but there is no escaping the pressure this latest poll will put on him and the government. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Pinning down climate change's role in extreme weather
    This is a re-post from The Climate Brink by Andrew Dessler In the wake of any unusual weather event, someone inevitably asks, “Did climate change cause this?” In the most literal sense, that answer is almost always no. Climate change is never the sole cause of hurricanes, heat waves, droughts, or ...
    2 days ago
  • Serving at Seymour's pleasure.
    Something odd happened yesterday, and I’d love to know if there’s more to it. If there was something which preempted what happened, or if it was simply a throwaway line in response to a journalist.Yesterday David Seymour was asked at a press conference what the process would be if the ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago
  • Webworm LA Pop-Up
    Hi,From time to time, I want to bring Webworm into the real world. We did it last year with the Jurassic Park event in New Zealand — which was a lot of fun!And so on Saturday May 11th, in Los Angeles, I am hosting a lil’ Webworm pop-up! I’ve been ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago
  • “Feel good” school is out
    Education Minister Erica Standford yesterday unveiled a fundamental reform of the way our school pupils are taught. She would not exactly say so, but she is all but dismantling the so-called “inquiry” “feel good” method of teaching, which has ruled in our classrooms since a major review of the New ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago
  • 6 Months in, surely our Report Card is “Ignored all warnings: recommend dismissal ASAP”?
    Exactly where are we seriously going with this government and its policies? That is, apart from following what may as well be a Truss-Lite approach on the purported economic plan, and Victorian-era regression when it comes to social policy. Oh it’ll work this time of course, we’re basically assured, “the ...
    exhALANtBy exhalantblog
    3 days ago
  • Bread, and how it gets buttered
    Hey Uncle Dave, When the Poms joined the EEC, I wasn't one of those defeatists who said, Well, that’s it for the dairy job. And I was right, eh? The Chinese can’t get enough of our milk powder and eventually, the Poms came to their senses and backed up the ute ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Why Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating in the country
    Polling shows that Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any mayor in the country. Siting at -12 per cent, the proportion of constituents who disapprove of her performance outweighs those who give her the thumbs up. This negative rating is higher than for any other mayor ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • Justice for Gaza?
    The New York Times reports that the International Criminal Court is about to issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over their genocide in Gaza: Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago
  • If there has been any fiddling with Pharmac’s funding, we can count on Paula to figure out the fis...
    Buzz from the Beehive Pharmac has been given a financial transfusion and a new chair to oversee its spending in the pharmaceutical business. Associate Health Minister David Seymour described the funding for Pharmac as “its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff”. ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago
  • FastTrackWatch – The case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Bryce Edwards writes – Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Monday, April 29
    TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 10:10am on Monday, April 29:Scoop: The children's ward at Rotorua Hospital will be missing a third of its beds as winter hits because Te Whatu Ora halted an upgrade partway through to ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell on Iran killing its rappers, and searching for the invisible Dr. Reti
    span class=”dropcap”>As hideous as David Seymour can be, it is worth keeping in mind occasionally that there are even worse political figures (and regimes) out there. Iran for instance, is about to execute the country’s leading hip hop musician Toomaj Salehi, for writing and performing raps that “corrupt” the nation’s ...
    3 days ago
  • Auckland Rail Electrification 10 years old
    Yesterday marked 10 years since the first electric train carried passengers in Auckland so it’s a good time to look back at it and the impact it has had. A brief history The first proposals for rail electrification in Auckland came in the 1920’s alongside the plans for earlier ...
    3 days ago
  • Coalition's dirge of austerity and uncertainty is driving the economy into a deeper recession
    Right now, in Aotearoa-NZ, our ‘animal spirits’ are darkening towards a winter of discontent, thanks at least partly to a chorus of negative comments and actions from the Government Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Disability Funding or Tax Cuts.
    You make people evil to punish the paststuck inside a sequel with a rotating castThe following photos haven’t been generated with AI, or modified in any way. They are flesh and blood, human beings. On the left is Galatea Young, a young mum, and her daughter Fiadh who has Angelman ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • Of the Goodness of Tolkien’s Eru
    April has been a quiet month at A Phuulish Fellow. I have had an exceptionally good reading month, and a decently productive writing month – for original fiction, anyway – but not much has caught my eye that suggested a blog article. It has been vaguely frustrating, to be honest. ...
    3 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #17
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 21, 2024 thru Sat, April 27, 2024. Story of the week Anthropogenic climate change may be the ultimate shaggy dog story— but with a twist, because here ...
    4 days ago
  • Pastor Who Abused People, Blames People
    Hi,I spent about a year on Webworm reporting on an abusive megachurch called Arise, and it made me want to stab my eyes out with a fork.I don’t regret that reporting in 2022 and 2023 — I am proud of it — but it made me angry.Over three main stories ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    4 days ago
  • Vic Uni shows how under threat free speech is
    The new Victoria University Vice-Chancellor decided to have a forum at the university about free speech and academic freedom as it is obviously a topical issue, and the Government is looking at legislating some carrots or sticks for universities to uphold their obligations under the Education and Training Act. They ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Winston remembers Gettysburg.
    Do you remember when Melania Trump got caught out using a speech that sounded awfully like one Michelle Obama had given? Uncannily so.Well it turns out that Abraham Lincoln is to Winston Peters as Michelle was to Melania. With the ANZAC speech Uncle Winston gave at Gallipoli having much in ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago
  • 25
    She was born 25 years ago today in North Shore hospital. Her eyes were closed tightly shut, her mouth was silently moving. The whole theatre was all quiet intensity as they marked her a 2 on the APGAR test. A one-minute eternity later, she was an 8.  The universe was ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • Fact Brief – Is Antarctica gaining land ice?
    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 in collaboration with members from our Skeptical Science team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Is Antarctica gaining land ice? ...
    5 days ago
  • Policing protests.
    Images of US students (and others) protesting and setting up tent cities on US university campuses have been broadcast world wide and clearly demonstrate the growing rifts in US society caused by US policy toward Israel and Israel’s prosecution of … Continue reading ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    5 days ago
  • Open letter to Hon Paul Goldsmith
    Barrie Saunders writes – Dear Paul As the new Minister of Media and Communications, you will be inundated with heaps of free advice and special pleading, all in the national interest of course. For what it’s worth here is my assessment: Traditional broadcasting free to air content through ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: FastTrackWatch – The Case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its arguments for such a bold reform. ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    5 days ago
  • Luxon gets out his butcher’s knife – briefly
    Peter Dunne writes –  The great nineteenth British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, once observed that “the first essential for a Prime Minister is to be a good butcher.” When a later British Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, sacked a third of his Cabinet in July 1962, in what became ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • More tax for less
    Ele Ludemann writes – New Zealanders had the OECD’s second highest tax increase last year: New Zealanders faced the second-biggest tax raises in the developed world last year, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says. The intergovernmental agency said the average change in personal income tax ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Real News vs Fake News.
    We all know something’s not right with our elections. The spread of misinformation, people being targeted with soundbites and emotional triggers that ignore the facts, even the truth, and influence their votes.The use of technology to produce deep fakes. How can you tell if something is real or not? Can ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago
  • Another way to roll
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago
  • Simon Clark: The climate lies you'll hear this year
    This video includes conclusions of the creator climate scientist Dr. Simon Clark. It is presented to our readers as an informed perspective. Please see video description for references (if any). This year you will be lied to! Simon Clark helps prebunk some misleading statements you'll hear about climate. The video includes ...
    5 days ago
  • Cutting the Public Service
    It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    6 days ago
  • Luxon’s demoted ministers might take comfort from the British politician who bounced back after th...
    Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious:  we live in a troubled ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago
  • This is how I roll over
    1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    6 days ago
  • The Waitangi Tribunal is not “a roving Commission”…
    …it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisition   NOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes –  The High Court ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • Is Oranga Tamariki guilty of neglect?
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same? Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago
  • Three Strikes saw lower reoffending
    David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • Luxon’s ruthless show of strength is perfect for our angry era
    Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • 'Lacks attention to detail and is creating double-standards.'
    TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    6 days ago
  • One Night Only!
    Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    6 days ago
  • What did Melissa Lee do?
    It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    6 days ago
  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #17 2024
    Open access notables Ice acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment: In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
    7 days ago
  • Maori Party (with “disgust”) draws attention to Chhour’s race after the High Court rules on Wa...
    Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    7 days ago
  • Who’s Going Up The Media Mountain?
    Mr Bombastic: Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
    7 days ago
  • “That's how I roll”
    It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    1 week ago
  • “Comity” versus the rule of law
    In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 week ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 hours ago
  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    16 hours ago
  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    16 hours ago
  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    19 hours ago
  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-01T21:58:31+00:00