Aotearoa New Zealand is a hell hole paradise dystopian democracy

Written By: - Date published: 8:09 am, October 29th, 2020 - 55 comments
Categories: covid-19, election 2020, health, jacinda ardern, making shit up, spin, uncategorized, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags:

It has been interesting seeing overseas attempts to present Aotearoa in the last couple of days.  I mean did someone turn up the international stupid dial to maximum?

First there was UK former Conservative Party then UKIP Party journalist Suzanne Evans accusing New Zealand of having a fascist Government.  Her evidence?  Our lockdown policies.

Then things got really weird when the TV channel that celebrated the locking up of kids and their forceful separation from their parents thought that our policies were too extreme.

The problem was that the post was completely lacking in that characteristic that all media should aspire to achieve and that was it was a complete misrepresentation of reality.

https://twitter.com/MoaVideos/status/1321342534266753026

They also had this text on their website:

Hoover Institution senior fellow Victor Davis Hanson condemned New Zealand‘s institution of coronavirus quarantine “camps” on “The Ingraham Angle” Tuesday.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, of the center-left New Zealand Labour Party, announced in a video that if people sent to the camp refuse to be tested, they will be required to remain another two weeks after their initial two-week stay.

Ardern called the warning a “pretty good incentive” to get tested for COVID-19.

“You either get your test done and make sure you are cleared, or we will keep you in a facility longer,” she said. “So I think most people look at that and say, ‘I will take the test.'”

Hanson told host Laura Ingraham that such draconian measures that Ardern’s orders make no sense given how little the pandemic has affected the island nation.

“They have a nation of 5 million people,” Hanson explained. “They’ve only lost, tragically, but they lost 25 people. That’s an astoundingly low number to throw away personal freedom.”

Feel your brain clench as you read this?  Wonder if Hanson may have contemplated the possibility that having more “personal freedom” US style may have resulted in many more deaths?   I guess we should expect such stupidity because the Hoover Institute is a right wing think tank based in the States.

The Ardern film relied on by Fox was from June 29, 2020, which by my calculations was 4 months ago.  Suggesting that it was a “terrifying new response” is rather overbaked and brings an entirely new meaning to the phrase.  Or ignores its meaning completely.

I accept there are constraints on our freedoms.  Currently there are about 5,000 returning kiwis or visitors who are in managed isolation.  They are subject to two tests over 14 days.  Recently I am aware of one person whose stay was extended by a further 14 days because she did not want to do the test because of the threat of nose bleeds.  The health professionals made a call.  Myself, I preferred they exercise caution.

The places they have to stay in are pretty good.  Four and five star hotels.  They get fed and they can purchase alcohol.

For those currently with symptoms they go into quarantine.  There are currently 66 active cases in the country.  Quarantine places are also hotels but with stricter health measures.

Is this a limitation on our freedoms.  Of course it is.

Our Bill of Rights Act which protects freedoms states that “the rights and freedoms contained in this Bill of Rights may be subject only to such reasonable limits prescribed by law as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society”.

Unlike America we have an independent and robust judiciary.  Our judges are selected on merit, not which side of the culture war they occupy.

Our courts had a look at the lock down orders and concluded that they were initially technically in breach of the law for a short period of time but that this was subsequently remedied and that they were justified.  From the judgment:

Although we have concluded that there was for nine days an unlawful limitation of certain rights and freedoms, that must be seen in the context of the rapidly developing public health emergency the nation was facing. We agree with Mr Borrowdale that – although not prescribed by law – the limits were nevertheless reasonable, necessary and proportionate. Moreover, they were limits that could have been imposed lawfully by the Director-General at the time, simply by issuing an order. And the unlawfulness has long since been remedied.

New Zealand has made the call.  Rather than face the prospect of tens of thousands of loved ones dying and long term health effects that we are still discovering we decided instead to socially distance and wash our hands regularly.  And make sure that people returning from disease hotbeds like the United States were quarantined, so that our elders and those with compromised health systems did not have to go through what their counterparts in the States are going through.

The handling of the pandemic is popular with the people of Aotearoa and saw Labour reelected to power with an unprecedented level of support in an MMP election.

And while we are on the subject of democracy Trump America is not in a position to criticise us about anything.  We recently held an election where over 80% of eligible voters exercised their democratic right to vote.  Voting was a breeze.  It did not matter if you lived in a wealthy or a poor area queues were short and people were encouraged to vote early.  People did not have to line up in queues for 8 hours to vote.  Rolls were not purged so that mainly poor people and people of colour were disenfranchised for no valid reason.  And the whole election was run by an entity that was independent of the parties.

I get it that the States is in the middle of an election and that the right wing candidate, who has made a complete mess of handling the disease, is under intense pressure in an election campaign that if run properly should see him lose.  But making up stories and criticising us because we took the hard decisions to hold the disease at bay?

55 comments on “Aotearoa New Zealand is a hell hole paradise dystopian democracy ”

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  1. Ad 1
    29 October 2020 at 9:25 am

    When you have 230,000 dead inside 8 months from a preventable disease, well…

    …freedom's just another word for 'nothin' left to lose'

    Sing along, kids.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTHRg_iSWzM

  2. AB 2
    29 October 2020 at 9:40 am

    Successful responses to the virus are based on:

    • solidarity and collective action
    • believing the lives of all citizens are of equal value and equally worthy of protection
    • viewing economic activity as something that goes on inside (not outside or prior to) a framework of human needs/wellbeing, and that can be adjusted to meet those needs.

    In other words, successful responses to the virus are a dagger to the heart of right-wing ideology and will be discredited by the vehicles and mouthpieces of that ideology. Even if it takes grotesque lies to do so.

    • Unicus 2.1
      30 October 2020 at 8:25 am

      This is certainly happening

      Murdoch media in the UK US and Aus has been slandering Jacinda for months – neo libs. are terrified her perceived persona will influence their body politic the way it has here

  3. weka 3
    29 October 2020 at 9:43 am

    What's the story with getting in and out of the US at the moment? Can citizens come and go freely?

    • Andre 3.1
      29 October 2020 at 9:57 am

      Varies by state for arrivals. New York and some other northeastern states have a two week quarantine for anyone from out-of-state (which includes overseas). But getting through the bureaucracy to even get that far for out-of-country people is very difficult. Hawaii has had a two week quarantine, but recently relaxed that for those that have a negative test (good luck with that!). I'd imagine most other states are less restrictive.

      Americans are free to leave to go anywhere at any time AFAIK, but there aren't many other countries willing to accept them. For instance, Canada and Mexico limit entry for Americans to "essential purposes" which doesn't include tourism.

      • weka 3.1.1
        29 October 2020 at 12:31 pm

        So incoming, it's up to individual states? And some states have pretty much the same restrictions as NZ? (or harder for US citizens to return home than for NZers to return home).

        • Andre 3.1.1.1
          29 October 2020 at 12:39 pm

          Yes, one of the consequences of the Barbecued Bloviator abdicating any attempt to deal with it is the states have had to do it themselves. Sometimes the rules vary even down to county and state level.

          I don’t the exact details of any isolation/quarantine restrictions, but yes, they can be broadly similar to NZ. For my cousin and her husband, they have family in New York that desperately want to visit them in Salt Lake City and help with their new little one, but because they also have family that might need care at short notice in New York, the two week quarantine on return is too big an obstacle. It’s a real mess, and in some ways it’s surprising there hasn’t been even more civil unrest there.

          • weka 3.1.1.1.1
            29 October 2020 at 4:54 pm

            letting the states sort it out is just for covid? Other overseas visitor controls are handled nationally?

            • Andre 3.1.1.1.1.1
              29 October 2020 at 5:12 pm

              Yep. Covid quarantine (or not) is being handled at state level.

              National border controls are decided in DC at the federal level. Because that's an immigration issue. Citizens and permanent residents have right of return, like here.

              If you're from Chyyyy-nuh, then it's nuh-uh, coz covid, even though there's hardly any there at the moment. Iranians are on the shit-list too. Surprisingly, white folks from Europe aren't allowed in either, not even the smokin' hot young women (but maybe if they blag themselves Einstein visas they can come). Central and South Americans aren't on the shit list yet, even though they've got massive covid problems. Maybe that's because electoral considerations.

              https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/from-other-countries.html

              • weka …
                30 October 2020 at 6:15 pm

                what I was getting at was whether US citizens are being treated differently on entering the US. If stupid Americans are calling NZ govt fascist/communist for having mandatory managed isolation (and Q for positive tests) for returning Kiwis, then isn't the US doing the same with its citizens? (so hypocrites as well as stupid).

                But from what I can tell, it depends on where the US citizen flies in. If the state has quarantine then US citizens will have similar treatment to Kiwis returning to NZ. But some states just let US citizens in with no restrictions. Is that right?

    • Matiri 3.2
      29 October 2020 at 4:21 pm

      An American friend who is also a New Zealand citizen has just come back from a mercy dash to the US to visit a dying relative, she flew to LA/Atlanta/Wyoming and back home to New Zealand two weeks later. The only drama for her was the limited availability of internal flights in the US. Once back here, she spent 14 days in Managed Isolation which she will have to pay for as this is her second trip since our borders were closed. She has both US and NZ passports.

      • weka 3.2.1
        29 October 2020 at 4:55 pm

        so she didn't have to go into managed isolation going into California?

        • Andre 3.2.1.1
          29 October 2020 at 5:21 pm

          California doesn't appear to have travel restrictions, and even if they did they may not apply them to transit passengers.

          There are currently no restrictions for entering California if you are coming from another state in the U.S. The federal government has placed restrictions on certain international travelers. With specific exceptions, foreign nationals who visited certain countries during the past 14 days are prohibited from entry to the United States. All travelers should take safety precautions when considering traveling.

          https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/

          However, California does appear to have stay-at-home orders in place that vary in strictness on a county-by-county basis, as explained in the link above. Georgia (Atlanta) and Wyoming (Wild West, baby!) are very unlikely to have imposed any restrictions, or really even asked their citizens to take even minimal precautions.

          edit: in case you’re interested, New York’s rules are in the link below.

          https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory

    • Jen 3.3
      29 October 2020 at 5:04 pm

      They never could come freely. And at the moment nobody is leaving either, because no country let's them in.

      • weka 3.3.1
        29 October 2020 at 8:07 pm

        I was asking about US citizens getting back into the US. That was easy before covid, right?

  4. Anker 4
    29 October 2020 at 9:44 am
    • Their stupidity or deliberate distortion (lying), disgusts me. Same with the UK women.
    • i have never felt more grateful to live in this country in my life.

    god helpAmerica. It’s in a huge. Amount of trouble

    • greywarshark 4.1
      29 October 2020 at 9:52 am

      Anker Please specify which UK women and give a link please. So we know what this is about. I think I know but others won't. Ta.

      • Anne 4.1.1
        29 October 2020 at 9:57 am

        I think anker meant "woman" – the right wing female woman blasted Jacinda Ardern and NZ a day or two ago.

        • greywarshark 4.1.1.1
          29 October 2020 at 10:02 am

          Right now we need the link even to the former reporting on TS. If this is intended to be a useful public forum for information it has to do more and be more than allusions and in-group comments that a small percentage know about.

        • Tricledrown 4.1.1.2
          29 October 2020 at 11:35 am

          Laura Inghram a Disgrace .

          But I bet she gets paid millions for her sycophantic rants.

          Just shows how desperate the Trump campaign is.

      • anker 4.1.2
        29 October 2020 at 11:01 am

        Sorry Gray, Suzanne Evans. Link is in the above article.

        Some times I post when I am about to go to work and I am not as careful as I should be!

        • greywarshark 4.1.2.1
          29 October 2020 at 4:37 pm

          Yes sory to be a moaner but I feel that TS is the one strong staunch people's voice and information sheet, so to speak. And I think that people in authority will look at it FTTT for clues on what is going on in left-leaning people's heads. And they may get some good ideas. So the combination of good thinkers with good mods following good procedures has led to a good informed spot that also is interesting, not boring! Lots of goods may multiply – crosses fingers!

  5. greywarshark 5
    29 October 2020 at 9:44 am

    This is the song for Trump's supporters and the Republican Party in USA.

    Take Me Higher (like the Covid-19 measurement) by D-Stroyer.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwMU3QAI4DM

    And this is the reality today for people who have no certainty of good things happening in their locale, their country. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJ2DylAPBpg

  6. Anne 6
    29 October 2020 at 9:50 am

    Jealousy mickysavage – plain, unadulterated jealousy. That a tin-pot country at the bottom of the world (who has a leader infinitely more admired and respected throughout the world than their leader) can do so much better than them in every way. That is anathema to the current US administration bully boys and girls and their broad posse of thugs in the media and elsewhere.

  7. Tony Veitch (not etc.) 7
    29 October 2020 at 10:03 am

    America's reaction illustrates the self-centred nature of neoliberalism and ultimately its destructive effect on the human species.

    If we are going to get through the pandemic, and the much more ominous climate change, we are going to have to work collectively, and inevitably give up some individual freedoms.

    If we don't then we are doomed, I tells ya, doomed!

    • Draco T Bastard 7.1
      29 October 2020 at 11:59 am

      If we don't then we are doomed, I tells ya, doomed!

      Pretty much.

      Unless we do start acting collectively and not at the whims of the rich and greedy.

  8. RedLogix 8
    29 October 2020 at 10:22 am

    I'm less inclined to join in a smug pile on here; the USA was always a different place to NZ. It's a far more diverse and and polarised nation. Extremes of virtually every human condition can be found flourishing within it's borders in substantial numbers.

    Trump's utterly deficient leadership aside, the US nation's weak and divided public health systems were never going to cope, their deeply fractious state system was never going to be unified, and the people themselves were never going to submit uniformly to mass lockdowns, much less basic shit like mask wearing.

    Failure has been evident at every level and institution and the outcomes have been appalling, despite dedicated and sacrificial efforts by thousands of medical people. In the aftermath of this crisis and humiliation the US will respond and adapt. Indeed once the Americans think something's worth doing, they also believe it's worth over-doing. Exactly how this plays out is something to watch in this next decade. It will likely be worth watching.

    • Gabby 8.1
      29 October 2020 at 10:31 am

      Yankistan must be the best, regardless of what the facts indicate. Anyone bester must be disappeared.

      • RedLogix 8.1.1
        29 October 2020 at 10:45 am

        Yankistan must be the best,

        Yes the idea of American exceptionalism totters on some very bad presumptions. Mostly what is unique about the USA relates to their remarkably benign geography; they're a nation who almost cannot help but be prosperous no matter how hard they try to fuck it up.

        One of the fuck up factors we really don't appreciate is just how unequal their education system is. Well educated Americans are remarkably capable, but the vast majority come through a crippled hobgoblin of a system that serves them very poorly indeed.

        The US dominates so much of our discourse for the simple reason that there are so many moving parts to it, so much complexity and nuance. Characterising it with one derogatory term 'Yankistan' is either lazy or sadly ignorant.

        • Gabby 8.1.1.1
          29 October 2020 at 4:46 pm

          We have them to thank for the spattering of 'nuance' over every surface when excusing arseholery too.

    • Anne 8.2
      29 October 2020 at 10:38 am

      Nicely summed up Redlogix. Thank-you.

      It's hard sometimes not to be scathing of them and attack as though they're all the same. They're not. My heart goes out to all the decent Americans – a majority if the truth were known – who don't deserve a regime like the current one.

      For their sakes, I hope there is a leadership change next week.

      • RedLogix 8.2.1
        29 October 2020 at 10:49 am

        My heart goes out to all the decent Americans

        As I've related elsewhere over the years, I've had the exceptional good fortune to work alongside people from many countries. It's left me with an enduring respect and appreciation of just how decent most people really are.

        And underneath all the political shennanigans, we should remember to cling tightly to this common humanity we all share.

        • greywarshark 8.2.1.1
          29 October 2020 at 11:16 am

          Everything is up for grabs when it comes to humans and our protean intelligence. Decency can be a moving thing. In The Handmaids Tale it is one thing to one lot of people, and others have different standards and viewpoint about 'decency'. We construct our society with words, thoughts and actions, and need to question ourselves and our values. At present the appearance of niceness and tidiness and being well-dressed and furnished etc can convey the 'decent' classification on us.

          Even common humanity isn't common. We should love those who have it and hold them in esteem and support and encourage them as much as possible. But to be really decent requires thoughtful action and acceptance of the human condition not just cant.

          I have just been reading Jane Tolerton's book on Ettie Rout who was determined to help the soldiers in WW1 to keep themselves free from sexual disease especially syphilus. Of course it was just not 'decent' for anybody, especially a woman, to talk about it. She did, she followed with thoughtful action, and there are many people alive in NZ today whose grand-fathers would have been too diseased to pass their genes successfully, if Ettie and her small band hadn't acted so faithfully in their caring humanity.

          The call for a fair society comes with thoughts about 'decency'. Fair societies depend on all showing common humanity to each other, not just demanding rights, but accepting reasonable responsibilites on ourselves too. This Radionz item may mention that or just be a sort of shopping list of wants and homilies. I haven't heard it yet.

          https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/429355/plea-for-reform-human-rights-create-fair-societies

        • Ad 8.2.1.2
          29 October 2020 at 7:22 pm

          All the Americans I know here of elsewhere are awesome, hardworking, generous, Democrat-leaning, and fun. The ones I work with right now are pretty embarrassed.

  10. Draco T Bastard 10
    29 October 2020 at 11:54 am

    Recently I am aware of one person whose stay was extended by a further 14 days because she did not want to do the test because of the threat of nose bleeds.

    She was quite willing to do the test – just through another means than having something pushed up her nose that could cause her to bleed to death.

    Myself, I preferred they exercise caution.

    I prefer that they stick to the processes outlined that allowed her to have the prescribed alternate test rather than making up rules on their whim.

    • Andre 11.1
      29 October 2020 at 12:26 pm

      I've learned to be wary of leaping to judgement over stuff like that.

      Pretty much the same thing happened while I was visiting a friend in Philly, and I was well on my way to putting my foot in it with a righteous rant, when I got told the background picture. It turned out the old guy was the founder and patriarch of the family pizza joint, and liked to feel he was still contributing to the family business and liked to keep connected to his long-term customers. Seems he was also pretty good at turning new customers into repeat customers.

  12. Roy Cartland 12
    29 October 2020 at 12:37 pm

    I like it. Everyone who thinks our policies suck can stay away. Win win.

  13. McFlock 13
    29 October 2020 at 2:32 pm

    If we're totalitarian, they're less incompetent.

    Fox propagandising, especially their "opinion" folk like Inghram, has the objective of trying to make dolt45 look less bad. Tory apologists do the same thing for the same objective.

    Be clear: they know people are dying because their countries' leaderships are wilfully negligent. They know the deaths are preventable. The are deliberately misleading people into the framing that they believe in freedom over safety, when really they want neither. Because if they believed in freedom, they would tell the truth.

    • woodart 13.1
      29 October 2020 at 2:55 pm

      define freedom. freedom to do to others as you please? freedom from having to share? freedom to say "im all right, phuck you"? freedom is a good two syllable word that looks good on a T shirt , but like waving a flag, is very open to interpretation. when it comes to attention grabbing freedom comes a poor second to free sex. put that on a T shirt ,and everybody looks! interesting to see that the biggest pushers of freedom want to buy and sell sex…..

      • McFlock 13.1.1
        29 October 2020 at 4:03 pm

        Esepecially in the case of the USA, it's a fuzzy thing that's part of their national myth – oft cited, never defined.

        But you see their purpose in your imperative for a definition. Such a heady, abstract discussion. That's their purpose:

        "Thousands of my neighbours are sick"

        It's sad, but nothing could be done

        "Yes it could have. Look at New Zealand"

        But NZ has covid gulags, we are a nation that believes in freedom

        "What sort of freedom? Freedom to die?"

        Those who would sacrifice freedom for safety deserve neither. We are a special nation, and will withstand great hardship for freedom. Our citizens will not cower just because of a virus.

        Just to justify why they didn't tell people to wear a fucking mask.

  14. Ad 14
    29 October 2020 at 3:49 pm

    As Statistics New Zealand reports this week, the Covid-19 crisis has actually been great for our terms of trade:

    https://www.stats.govt.nz/news/annual-imports-continue-to-fall

    "Imports, especially of fuel and cars, fell sharply in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, while exports held up, leading to a $1.7 billion annual goods trade surplus in the year ended September 2020, Stats NZ said yesterday. Imports fell $5.9 billion in the September 2020 year. A similar large fall in trade occurred during the global financial crisis more than a decade ago when both imports and exports dropped.

    This year, exports have held up well despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Imports have fallen since February 2020, as the COVID-19 outbreak started spreading around the world and international travel restrictions were imposed.

    The fall in imports was led by crude oil (down $1.7 billion) and cars (down $1.1 billion). These falls were partly offset by rises in warships (up $395 million, largely driven by the arrival of Navy ship HMNZS Aotearoa in June 2020), face masks (up $216 million), and laptops (up $133 million).

    “New Zealand imported more face masks in the wake of the global pandemic,” senior insights analyst Nicholas Cox said.
    “Imports of laptops also rose, as more people worked from home during the lockdowns earlier in the year.”

    The total value of goods exports for the September 2020 year rose $1.2 billion from 2019. The rise in annual exports was led by milk powder, butter, and cheese (up $1.4 billion), beef (up $433 million), and gold kiwifruit (up $377 million).

    “New Zealand also exported more breathing equipment, which is in high demand worldwide because of COVID-19,” Mr Cox said. Exports of respiration apparatus rose $348 million in the September 2020 year.

    The goods trade surplus for the September 2020 year was $1.7 billion, the largest surplus since 2014 when dairy prices were at very high levels. “For most of the past 20 years, New Zealand had a goods trade shortfall, importing much more than it exports,” Mr Cox said. “The goods trade surplus in September 2020 is unusually high because of the rapid drop in imports since February.”

    Christmas will probably see us reverting to our bad old importing ways, but hey, it's a pretty good upside. Thanks to all those who worked in sheep, beef, dairy, horticulture, and medical technology for pushing our export-led recovery along.

    I wouldn't mind hearing some commentary on how we are spending within the domestic economy as well.

  15. tc 15
    29 October 2020 at 3:54 pm

    Fox does as it's allowed to, thanks largely to Reagan abolishing the 'fairness' tests, even vetoed it's attempted reintroduction.

    What's our excuse for allowing MSM here to mislead, not declare conflicts of interest, apologise properly etc etc i.e. be held genuinely accountable in any way.

  16. Herodotus 16
    29 October 2020 at 8:44 pm

    Are not all confirmed cases in NZ now ALL cases in NZ ?

    In places like the US this data is only a subset. This subset comprising of only those that have been tested with Covid19 ? So those that are not tested and either recover "naturally" or display no symptoms but are invected are not counted.

    • Andre 17.1
      30 October 2020 at 8:56 am

      If policies vary at the subnational level, the index is shown as the response level of the strictest sub-region.

      Dunno whether that means the index simply reflects the strictest composite measure for one specific region, possibly New York City, or whether it reflects a composite of the strictest subregion measures such as California's stay-at-home order combined with New York's two-week quarantine for travellers etc.

      Certainly there's large parts of the US where free-dumb overrules taking any sensible precautions at all and the local stringency index would be lower than even the minimal measures we have here right now.

  18. kester macfarlane 18
    31 October 2020 at 12:31 am

    Last August we took a three-week cruise around the Baltic and Scotland on the “Seabourn Ovation”.

    The guy in the suite next to ours was a gay maths teacher from San Francisco called Curtis Ingraham. Curtis is the older brother of that crazy Fox News host Laura Ingraham who is currently in the news about her take on our Prime Minister, our country and our Covid quarantine camps. Curtis and I would have 6 am-ish morning coffee up in the observation bar on deck eleven and then meet up again in the same bar for pre-dinner slurps. He told me about his sister. I had never heard of her, mainly because I never watch Fox. He talked about their raving alcoholic father who had pictures of Hitler and the Nazi flag in his den when they were growing up in Connecticut. “He was an American Nazi,” Curtis said. His sister hates gays calling them sodomites although she has softened her views after Curtis’s partner, Richard Smith died of AIDS in 1997. Curtis is a really nice polite and charming person but he just can’t stand his sister's extreme views. Last year he was quoted in the Washington Post attacking her after she compared Greta Thunberg to the 'Children of the Corn’ and in an interview with the Daily Beast he said: “I think she’s a monster, she’s very smart, she’s well-spoken, but her emotional heart is just kind of dead.”

    It's pretty obvious that most of Laura Ingraham’s DNA came from her Nazi father whilst Curtis seems to have been spared.

    Kester Macfarlane

    Ruby Bay

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    Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General, John Ryan, has joined the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    12 hours ago

  • India makes a big bet on electric buses
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah Spengeman People wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
    Skeptical Science
    14 hours ago

  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 6:36am on Tuesday, April 23
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 6:36am on Tuesday, April 22:Scoop & Deep Dive: How Sir Peter Jackson got to have his billion-dollar exit cake and eat Hollywood too NZ Herald-$$$ Matt NippertFast Track Approval Bill: Watchdogs seek substantial curbs on ministers' powers ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    16 hours ago

  • What is really holding up infrastructure
    The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    18 hours ago

  • “Pure Unadulterated Charge”
    Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    18 hours ago

  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks for Monday, April 22
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: writes via his substack that’s he’s sceptical about the IPSOS poll last week suggesting a slide into authoritarianism here, writing: Kiwis seem to want their cake and eat it too Tal Aster writes for about How Israel turned homeowners into YIMBYs. writes via his ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • The media were given a little list and hastened to pick out Fast Track prospects – but the Treaty ...
     Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • Just trying to stay upright
    It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago

  • “Unprecedented”
    Today, former Port of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson went on trial on health and safety charges for the death of one of his workers. The Herald calls the trial "unprecedented". Firstly, it's only "unprecedented" because WorkSafe struck a corrupt and unlawful deal to drop charges against Peter Whittall over Pike ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Time for “Fast-Track Watch”
    Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago

  • Gordon Campbell on fast track powers, media woes and the Tiktok ban
    Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    1 day ago

  • The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    Bryce Edwards writes-  The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    1 day ago

  • Maori push for parallel government structures
    Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • An announcement about an announcement
    Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • All the Green Tech in China.
    Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago

  • Western Express Success
    In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    2 days ago

  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 7:16am on Monday, April 22
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 7:16am on Monday, April 22:Labour says Kiwis at greater risk from loan sharks as Govt plans to remove borrowing regulations NZ Herald Jenee TibshraenyHow did the cost of moving two schools blow out to more than $400m?A ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

  • Thank you
    This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
    “China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.   Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
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