Cunliffe off to a flyer in revenue

Written By: - Date published: 9:07 am, March 22nd, 2013 - 150 comments
Categories: david cunliffe, tax - Tags:

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. The revenue portfolio looked like a pretty big step down for someone of Cunliffe’s experience and skill – it’s usually a training ground for first-termers – but that experience and skill has allowed him to make something of it.

With Cunliffe as spokesperson, Labour’s been the parliamentary wing of a business/union coalition against Dunne’s stealth taxes.

The result: humiliating backdowns for Dunne, a stain that may threaten his hold on Ohariu (if Labour puts up a decent candidate), and Cunliffe and Labour on the side of the winners.

There’s plenty more weakness on the revenue front to be exploited. While traditionally spokespeople have concentrated on IRD scandals and management issues, the real avenue of attack is tax policy itself. The massive loopholes that the rich and overseas investors can make use of while leaving us ordinary people carrying the tax burden are ripe for attack.

It feeds into the developing ‘us and them’ narrative (eg. SkyCity, bank bailouts, tax cuts for the rich, minimum wage cuts for young workers, bene-bashing), and positions Labour as being on the side of the honest person in the street.

Turns out Shearer did Labour more good than he realised when he shunted Cunliffe into a novice portfolio.

150 comments on “Cunliffe off to a flyer in revenue ”

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  1. MrSmith 1
    22 March 2013 at 9:41 am

    Heard Cunliffe talking on Radio NZ about these issues and couldn’t help think if only he was the leader of the party they would destroy National at the next election, but it’s a team game I suppose, we can only hope M/Bumble can swallow his pride and bring him back into the fold quickly.

    • Treetop 1.1
      23 March 2013 at 1:11 pm

      “… but it’s a team game I suppose …”

      I support the team over the leader when I party vote. I would feel more empowered with my party vote to have my first choice as leader and not my third choice currently being leader.

  2. Watching 2
    22 March 2013 at 9:55 am

    ” a stain that may threaten his hold on Ohariu (if Labour puts up a decent candidate)”

    I do not think so

    Ohariu Dunne voters (not supporters) are more National lending rather than Labour. When Dunne retires or looks like losing this seat will revert to being a Nats seat.

    Many Dunne voters (Nats voters) in Ohariu do understand the principle that here you can get two votes per voter even if Dunne is a one electorate seat party.

    In saying that I understand there are significant boundary changes to Ohariu for 2014 which I have no idea of the impact.

    • bad12 2.1
      22 March 2013 at 10:02 am

      Under either of your scenario tho, no ‘Hairdo from Ohariu’ will leave National down 1 seat in the Parliament, if the seat of Ohariu reverts to a National MP then it will be one less List MP in the House for National…

      • Watching 2.1.1
        22 March 2013 at 12:08 pm

        If your outcome is correct the Nats voters will then continue to support the hairdo.

    • Lightly 2.2
      22 March 2013 at 10:13 am

      But imagine a decent candidate at each meeting saying ‘so Peter, thsi carpark tax you wanted’ and ‘Peter Dunne wants to tax your work phone’

    • Draco T Bastard 2.3
      22 March 2013 at 2:39 pm

      Ohariu Dunne voters (not supporters) are more National lending rather than Labour. When Dunne retires or looks like losing this seat will revert to being a Nats seat.

      Could be. That’s certainly what the results from the last election would suggest even though Charles Chauvel (Lab) was the runner up as candidate.

    • Frank Macskasy 2.4
      23 March 2013 at 10:25 am

      Not quite, ‘Watching’…

      The 2011electorate results yielded some interesting info;

      DUNNE, Peter (UF) 13,228
      CHAUVEL, Charles (Lab) 11,582
      HUGHES, Gareth (GP) 1,775

      Majority to Peter Dunne (UF): 1,646

      Win: United Future

      Transfer electorate votes from Gareth Hughes (GP) to Charles Chauvel (Lab),

      CHAUVEL, Charles (Lab) 13,357
      DUNNE, Peter (UF) 13,228

      Revised majority to Charles Chauvel (Lab): 129
      Win: Labour

      From my blogpost: http://fmacskasy.wordpress.com/2011/11/27/post-mortem-1-green-voters-in-electorates/

      In short, had Green voters given their ELECTORATE VOTE to Chauvel instead of wasting it on Gareth Hughes, Dunne would’ve been thrown out.

      Dunne is vulnerable. Voters simply have to think a bit more clearly and vote cleverly.

      • Draco T Bastard 2.4.1
        23 March 2013 at 11:54 am

        National had the highest of the Party votes – by a significant margin. The question then become How many National Party voting people voted for Peter Dunne in the last election?

      • QoT 2.4.2
        24 March 2013 at 9:55 am

        Maybe those Green voters didn’t want Charles Chauvel as their electorate MP? Maybe they thought Dunne represented Ohariu the best? Maybe they believed his election promise not to support asset sales? Maybe they were pissed off by Labour’s sense of entitlement to their votes? Just some random thoughts.

      • SHG (not Colonial Viper) 2.4.3
        24 March 2013 at 8:30 pm

        The only problem was, Chauvel was an arrogant egotistical prick with a massive sense of entitlement for no apparent reason; he wasn’t actually good at anything other than talking about how awesome Charles Chauvel was. Hell if I was a Green Ohariu voter I wouldn’t have voted for him.

  3. Enough is Enough 3
    22 March 2013 at 11:38 am

    I agree

    It takes quite an exceptional politician to make the headlines while sitting on the backbench and speaking about revenue.

    He has done brilliantly and highlighted again how simply stupid it is having a key asset being made redundant at the back.

  4. Matthew Hooton 4
    22 March 2013 at 12:12 pm

    I do have to admit that having now worked with David Cunliffe on the carpark tax campaign, I found him great to deal with.

    • xtasy 4.1
      22 March 2013 at 8:28 pm

      WOW, is this the start of another cunning dismantling agenda, or are you for real, Matthew???

      • rosy 4.1.1
        22 March 2013 at 10:08 pm

        No, It’s marketing – just making sure his name is out there getting some ‘me too’ time when people are giving out the compliments.

        • xtasy 4.1.1.1
          22 March 2013 at 10:26 pm

          I’ve challenged Matthew Hooton on a few topics to get back to me, but he never does. I think he knows he is up against rock solid criticism, so he does not bother. Makes him a discredited commenter of sorts really, does it not?

          • felix 4.1.1.1.1
            23 March 2013 at 10:57 am

            Utterly discredited, never held up his own end of an argument here as long as I can recall.

            But he’s not a “commenter”, he’s a lobbyist / PR rep. A paid mouthpiece and nothing more.

    • Tim 4.2
      23 March 2013 at 1:20 pm

      Oh how fucking magnanimous of you! All is forgiven – I misjudged you: maybe you’re not the self-serving, egotistical, fame and fortune craver, mainstream media whore I originally thought.

      I think I’ve fallen in lerv

  5. karol 5
    22 March 2013 at 12:20 pm

    David Cunliffe letting it rip in the General Debate this week – on the Back-Down-Dunne, and the Back-Down-Nat-BackBenchers.

    Every speech a winner.

  6. Anne 6
    22 March 2013 at 12:23 pm

    You’ve discovered what many of us already knew Matthew. Credit to you for owning up to it.

    Can I suggest you now reflect on the real reasons certain members of the ABC club were so desperate to get rid of Cunliffe?

    • Draco T Bastard 6.2
      22 March 2013 at 2:42 pm

      Considering how desperate that National seem to be to keep Shearer I suspect he (Hooton) already knows.

    • xtasy 6.3
      22 March 2013 at 8:30 pm

      Do NOT trust Matthew Hooton and Off!

      He will next come out with some “revelation” to qualify what he said, and try all to dismantle Cunliffe, like a good old back-stabber from the right.

      • Elizabeth Bourchier 6.3.1
        22 March 2013 at 10:03 pm

        way bet. To maintain his clients’ confidence he must show that he is “connected” and had an open door to the powerful, no matter what their persuasion.
        He sees that Cunluffe has an outside chance of taking the top spot so he is building bridges.

        Fairly transparent, this Matthew boy. Follow the money. I do the same every day!

        BTW, why hasn’t the price of Bollinget come down 25% in line with the increase in the value of the Kiwi$?

  7. Tiresias 7
    22 March 2013 at 12:26 pm

    “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.”

    Life also has to give you an awful lot of sugar.

    Perfect Lemonade

    Ingredients

    1 cup sugar (can reduce to 3/4 cup)
    1 cup water (for the simple syrup)
    1 cup lemon juice
    3 to 4 cups cold water (to dilute)

    • Lanthanide 7.1
      22 March 2013 at 1:12 pm

      Obviously if you want to over-analyse the saying, if life gives you lemons, you go out and work hard to find the sugar so that you can make lemonade.

      • felix 7.1.1
        23 March 2013 at 11:01 am

        And a jug. When life gives you lemons, you go out and work hard to find the sugar so that you can make lemonade, but first you save up and buy a jug.

        Also worth ensuring a supply of potable water.

        • mac1 7.1.1.1
          23 March 2013 at 12:53 pm

          It’s how you squeeze the lemon that makes it all worth while, cf “Travelling Riverside Blues” by Robert Johnson.

  8. Poission 8
    22 March 2013 at 1:46 pm

    Farrar is being critical of Cunliffe who suggested tightening of the GST threshold on small O/S purchases.

    Obviously does not like the idea of NZ based businesses working on a competitive level playing field.

    • DH 8.1
      22 March 2013 at 2:48 pm

      Selfish turd isn’t he, wants all the benefits of living in NZ but doesn’t want to pay for it. There’s a lot of drop-shippers who sell online these days and they’ve got a 15% price advantage over an NZ based business for goods under $300, that comes out of the profit margin so the NZ retailer is up against it. Yet we’re the ones who pay tax and employ people.

      IMO Cunliffe also needs to look at the surcharges on GST collection that Customs charge, it adds a big whack to the cost. There shouldn’t be any surcharge at all, I can’t charge for collecting GST so I don’t see why Customs should be allowed to.

  9. ghostrider888 9
    22 March 2013 at 2:32 pm

    David Cunliffe.Yep! he has my vote.

  10. McFlock 10
    22 March 2013 at 2:42 pm

    Indeed.
    I like it when a leader gives an MP roles that the MP is well suited for. Shows that the leadership team has a good level of leadership competence.

    • karol 10.1
      22 March 2013 at 3:28 pm

      🙄

      • Anne 10.1.1
        22 March 2013 at 3:34 pm

        What it shows McFlock is that the Mallarfia still feel threatened by him. The Revenue portfolio was meant to be a put down but instead he’s using it to outsmart them. Game one to Cunliffe.

        • McFlock 10.1.1.1
          22 March 2013 at 4:39 pm

          lol

          “Outsmart them”.
          I thought he was too principled and too loyal to play games within caucus, and was going to spend the next 18months on the backbenchers before leaving parliament and curing the sick by laying his hands upon them.

          Although beyond all that, it’s nice to have two consecutive days of caucus members doing well in the house.

          • Colonial Viper 10.1.1.1.1
            22 March 2013 at 7:29 pm

            🙄

            • McFlock 10.1.1.1.1.1
              22 March 2013 at 11:04 pm

              Let is all raise our eyes to the heavens, that the great Cunliffe might smile upon us …
              🙄
              Blessed be the name of Cunliffe

              • Colonial Viper …
                22 March 2013 at 11:20 pm

                Hey you little prick, Cunliffe has plenty of faults and weaknesses, but at the very least he’s not a zero term zero Ministerial portfolio zero economic intelligence MP.

                You, you get Shearer.

                • McFlock …
                  22 March 2013 at 11:42 pm

                  Was I getting too close to the bone, CV?

                  Maybe you should have another glass of bubbly and ponder how the apparently incompetent can hold onto the leadership for over a year despite the best efforts of folk like yourself.

                  Meanwhile I get a labour party who have to move beyond a leadership horse race and form a genuine mmp government, not a governing party + a couple of hangers-on. Better government in the long run, even if the bogs in the top floor of the beehive won’t smell like roses and honeysuckle.

                  • Colonial Viper …
                    23 March 2013 at 12:18 am

                    Whatever. Go focus on the leadership of the Alliance, you’re way too busy with your continuing oblique defence of Shearer under the guise of concern for the Labour Party.

                    Maybe you should have another glass of bubbly and ponder how the apparently incompetent can hold onto the leadership for over a year despite the best efforts of folk like yourself.

                    You’re seriously mistaken. I never ever claimed that the current leadership is incompetent at holding on to power.

                    Zero term, zero Ministerial portfolio, zero economic intelligence.

                    You, you get Shearer. It’s what you deserve.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 12:31 am

                      Sadly, the alliance isn’t likely to be part of the 2014 government.
                      Labour is.

                      And at the moment, the chap you want to be leader can’t get the job.
                      But more to the point, you seem to have tied your hope for nz politics to one man. In reality, our political future is in the combined leadership teams of different caucus members of a number of different political parties.

                      The sooner you figure that out, the sooner you’ll learn to chillax and act less like a groupie.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 12:35 am

                      “groupie” what the fuck McFlock.

                      By the way did you hear that all of Gillard’s leadership problems is due to that hasbeen no hoper called Rudd?

                      “Chillax” don’t be so condescending. You get Shearer, it’s precisely what you deserve.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 12:45 am

                      Nah haven’t been following aus politics.

                      Love the way you call me a prick and then ask me to not be condescending, by the way. Really makes your opinion look rational.
                      And in case you haven’t noticed, there’s more to the parliamentary left than just shearer and cunliffe.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 1:05 am

                      I didn’t call you a prick to be condescending, I called you a prick to be insulting.

                      I had hoped that was obvious, but as it wasn’t I hope it’s clearer to you now. BTW good luck with your “rational” concept of politics.

                      And in case you haven’t noticed, there’s more to the parliamentary left than just shearer and cunliffe.

                      And you gain solace from that why?

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 1:29 am

                      I’ d picked that up, yeah. Intrigued as to what you thought the response would be.

                      And I’m happy with labour’s current progress because I want labour to need both mana and the greens to govern, rather than being able to choose between them or even go to nz1 for different legislation.

                      My reasoning is that I believe labour with shearer having to compromise would be more left wing than labour with cunliffe playing one agin t’other.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 1:37 am

                      Unless Labour gets a minimum 34% (or maybe even 35% plus) in the E-day poll, NZF will be a must have in order to form a coalition government.

                      The follow on analysis from that is that a swing from 27% 2011 to 34%-35% 2014 is a very big ask in the best circumstances.

                      tl;dr: Winston is in, as long as he gets over 5%.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 1:49 am

                      2.5% in 18 months is a “very big ask”? With polls that undercount the e-day left vote? Not even if shearer were as bad as you say. Hell, they gained 5% over the last year.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 2:14 am

                      NB I’m not going by the figures in the opinion polls, I’m going by the 2011 e-day to 2014 e-day swing which will be required ie a swing from 27% to at least 34% (or NZF will very likely be king makers again).

                      Also note, Labour spent plenty of time in the mid 30% opinion poll range last term.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 2:34 am

                      Lol. For a generous Value of “mid”

                      Basically, even if the polls are all completely wrong, you’re still only asking for a reverse of the swing that goff managed.

                      Very doable.

                    • The Al1en …
                      23 March 2013 at 8:20 am

                      Got edit working, now a need newspaper headline font.

                      Shearer supporter in drinks the un-coolade shocker. 😆

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 2:21 pm

                      Ta, you mistake my motives. I realise that even the parliamentary left is bigger than one guy. I actually believe that pinning your hopes on a saviour-figure politician is just setting yourself up for tragic disappointment. Call it a legacy from the betrayal of the Alliance by anderton, if you will.

                      I’m not a shearer supporter, I just really really really dislike political cultists. Fucksake, doing your job competently is some sort of masterstroke to outwit the leadership? That’s some impressive faith-based spin right there.

                    • The Al1en …
                      24 March 2013 at 9:11 am

                      ”Ta, you mistake my motives.’

                      Maybe.

                      “I realise that even the parliamentary left is bigger than one guy.”

                      Of course it is, and even if we’re not inching our way to a presidential style, personality based democracy, which we are, it doesn’t make the last two choices of Labour leader any more electable. A pig with lipstick, etcetera.

                      “I actually believe that pinning your hopes on a saviour-figure politician is just setting yourself up for tragic disappointment.”

                      Me personally, or everyone who thinks DC > At least 22 of caucus?
                      Anyway, I couldn’t be less disappointed by the Labour party, which is why I probably won’t ever vote for them again. Democracy in action.

                      “Call it a legacy from the betrayal of the Alliance by anderton, if you will.”

                      Call it what you like, it’s not applicable.

                      “I’m not a shearer supporter, I just really really really dislike political cultists.”

                      I’m not a Shearer supporter, either, I just really dislike shit politicians, that I’m expected to vote for.

                      “Fucksake, doing your job competently is some sort of masterstroke to outwit the leadership? That’s some impressive faith-based spin right there.”

                      You made the inference “I thought he was too principled and too loyal to play games within caucus” and I replied with “Playing games, by being effective and coherent.”, that’s not spin, faith based or otherwise, just a simple response to a simpler snipe.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 3:31 pm

                      TheAllen

                      Mallard’s gang must hate DC so much. Every time he opens his mouth, his class comes out, exposing their long con (post 2014 plans) game, for the mess it so clearly is.
                      His rise, no doubt spectacular when it eventually comes, will hopefully be matched by the speed and manner of the TM gangs demise, ending the culture of failure in Labour’s current caucus.

                      my italics
                      CF:

                      “I actually believe that pinning your hopes on a saviour-figure politician is just setting yourself up for tragic disappointment.”

                      Me personally, or everyone who thinks DC > At least 22 of caucus?

                      Both comments from you.
                      In response to the question in the second quote, I’d say “anyone who thinks that the best course of action is to wait for Cunliffe to rise again”. Maybe he will. Maybe he won’t. He’s lost one supporter in caucus this year. Makes life more difficult for him.

                      As to who to vote for, I agree. Any party that expects a vote from a particular area doesn’t deserve that vote. If you feel that way, I suggest Greens.

                    • The Al1en …
                      25 March 2013 at 7:01 am

                      “Both comments from you.”

                      I don’t think DC is a saviour politician, though it would be hard to argue he isn’t the best man for the job, and the way caucus is playing out, I’m certainly not pinning hopes on his immediate canonisation, but with the current leadership, he’s still on course to become next Labour pm.

                      “In response to the question in the second quote, I’d say “anyone who thinks that the best course of action is to wait for Cunliffe to rise again”. Maybe he will. Maybe he won’t. He’s lost one supporter in caucus this year. Makes life more difficult for him.”

                      Agreed, no point waiting, but the more waves of dissatisfaction, the increasing undercurrent for change swells. Even if it doesn’t, I’m still enjoying putting the boot in.

                      “As to who to vote for, I agree. Any party that expects a vote from a particular area doesn’t deserve that vote. If you feel that way, I suggest Greens.”

                      Yes, my only option, so Green it is.

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 12:08 pm

                      Interesting imagery you used though, wasn’t it.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      25 March 2013 at 12:18 pm

                      McFlock, you are the one who consistently makes out Cunliffe supporters as Cunliffe church devotees.

                      Whatever, you get Shearer, it’s all that you deserve. Just remember that during the pre-election debates OK? Because right around that time I expect you to start distancing yourself from both him and his performance.

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 1:34 pm

                      You did read Theallen’s comment, did you? The one expecting a spectacular rise from cunliffe?

                      And what’s Shearer got to do with how brilliant cunliffe is? Time and time again people here point out to me that cunliffe’s abilities and shearer’s leadership are two completely different and unrelated issues.

                      I reckon shearer might be better than goff. And he will be facing a tired Key who doesn’t have natural disasters and a world cup three-way to hide behind. Novopay, the rebuild, gcsb/dotcom, asset sales – it’s all coming home to roost.

                    • The Al1en …
                      25 March 2013 at 5:55 pm

                      “You did read Theallen’s comment, did you? The one expecting a spectacular rise from cunliffe?”

                      Cunliffe, if he sticks at it, when this lot fail as expected, will be leader of the Labour party.
                      How could that rise, from where he is now, be written as anything but spectacular?

                      The main point of using that ‘imagery’ was to suggest the fall of the current polit bureau be equally stunning, as deserved.

                    • The Al1en …
                      25 March 2013 at 5:59 pm

                      “Interesting imagery you used though, wasn’t it.”

                      To be honest, I think you just got the wrong end of the stick, rather than deliberately misrepresent me, that or you were ‘having it’ for a laugh 😉

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 6:18 pm

                      Interesting.

                      So now the vaccum following the spectacular demise of the mallarfia will possibly be filled by cunliffe, rather than cunliffe’s certain and spectacular rise will “hopefully be matched by the speed and manner of the TM gangs demise”.

                      At least you’re putting the horse before the cart this time, and even suggesting (shock horror) that cunliffe might not be there to step in to the breach as successor.

                      Is cunliffe even running for reelection? I thought hew said he was simply going to serve out the term on the back bench and be done with it?

                    • The Al1en …
                      25 March 2013 at 6:46 pm

                      “Interesting.”

                      Yeah, you’re on one.

                      “So now the vaccum following the spectacular demise of the mallarfia will possibly be filled by cunliffe, rather than cunliffe’s certain and spectacular rise will “hopefully be matched by the speed and manner of the TM gangs demise”.”

                      My position has been clear from post one. That you’ve chosen to twist it into some sort of self defence mechanism is up to you.

                      From my first post.
                      “His rise, no doubt spectacular when it eventually comes, will hopefully be matched by the speed and manner of the TM gangs demise, ending the culture of failure in Labour’s current caucus.”

                      “At least you’re putting the horse before the cart this time, and even suggesting (shock horror) that cunliffe might not be there to step in to the breach as successor.”

                      From my first post.
                      “If it happens, it’ll probably the reason I’d vote red again.”

                      Note the ‘if’?

                      “Is cunliffe even running for reelection?”

                      No idea. Ask hew.

                      “I thought hew said he was simply going to serve out the term on the back bench and be done with it?”

                      Before or after he heals the sick by laying hands upon them?

                      I changed my mind. Given how clear I’ve been, I think you deliberately misrepresented me. 😆

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 7:18 pm

                      So the “when it eventually comes” was uncertain?

                      Sorry, took it at face value. Yes there’s an if that follows, but shouldn’t it have been “if it eventually comes” if you weren’t sure it was going to happen?

                    • The Al1en …
                      25 March 2013 at 7:35 pm

                      “So the “when it eventually comes” was uncertain?

                      Sorry, took it at face value. Yes there’s an if that follows, but shouldn’t it have been “if it eventually comes” if you weren’t sure it was going to happen?”

                      If it helps, I’m sure that if DC sticks with it, when DS fails and a vote gets to the rank and file, DC will be crowned king in a spectacular rise as his time will have eventually come.

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 7:48 pm

                      I doubt he’ll be there, and even if he is then by that time some of the young guns will be champing for a chance. And going by eddie’s three streams, the right stream will still oppose cunliffe tooth and nail, and the careerists might well accept one of their number as a compromise – keep the right happy, but not annoy the left quite so much if the gambit fails.

                      EDIT: d’oh – failed to factor the pop vote, good call. He might hang around yet. It still depends on deals in caucus and with the affiliates, so he might well be nobbled there, though.

                  • The Chairman …
                    23 March 2013 at 9:32 am

                    McFlock, it seems we’ve come full circle from our previous discussion (Two Things)

                    How will Labour muster a gain in the polls without a change of policy and a new sense of direction?

                    They’ve apparently gone back to their grassroots. Put forward a new leader. Done the reshuffle, yet have failed to significantly gain in the polls.

                    They could always wait, and hope, for National to lose significant ground.

                    However, it’s hardly a winning strategy and highly unlikely to eventuate in a give away election year.

                    Moreover, another blunder or two (such as Shearer’s brain fade) could result in a further reduction in credibility and slip in the polls.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 2:10 pm

                      According to cv, they’re almost where we need them to be already. Drastic change could have a higher penalty for failure than staying the course.

                  • The Chairman …
                    23 March 2013 at 9:36 pm

                    There is support out there for a more hands on approach.

                    Failing to pull anything more out of the hat will be cutting it extremely fine.

                    Perhaps another term in opposition will encourage the required change.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 10:53 pm

                      If 2.5% in 18 months is extremely fine, then I suggest your expectations are unrealistic.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:00 pm

                      Give them just a bit more time, in other words.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:18 pm

                      Nope.
                      Istr the “just a bit more time” line was to wait for them to get the job skills.

                      That’s not the situation now.

                      We have a fixed schedule ending in election 2014.

                      Even by your math, labour are quite possibly well on track for that objective.

                      What do they need a bit more time for now? They might already be where they need to be. You have no idea whether they are or not. Neither do I.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:23 pm

                      But you have plenty of faith. I don’t.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:36 pm

                      No-o.

                      I suspect that the difference is that I’m more used to being in situations where sometimes the only course of action is to wait and see which way things play out before deciding what to do.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:43 pm

                      Oh definitely. Given the hard deadline of 2014 which you mentioned, standing still and waiting for the clock to run down is the ultimate in smart strategy.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:53 pm

                      With no clear Indication as to whether things are on track or off track, yes, see what develops. I’m not entirely happy with the polls, but not so much as to worry prematurely.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 9:19 am

                      Labour frequently polled 32% to 35% (Roy Morgan) in the year before the 2011 elections. How did that turn out. Taking consolation from similar poll numbers now is…inadvisable.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 12:59 pm

                      Labour lost its votes in the six months before the election. The left gained ground in the last week or so. Left the tories only one vote for the asset sales. And that was with earthquakes+rwc+goff.

                      That’s why I’m not panicking .

                  • The Chairman …
                    24 March 2013 at 8:52 am

                    While the percentage stated may be small, what’s going to drive this voter change?

                    I see this is your wait and hope strategy.

                  • The Chairman …
                    24 March 2013 at 2:21 pm

                    As highlighted above, they’ve pretty much mustered all the support they can from that..

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 3:20 pm

                      I disagree, especially looking at the context of the 2011 election.
                      National managed a 1-seat majority for their agenda when they’d been gifted a political lifetime’s worth of photo-ops national tragedies and sporting events. Sucks to lose, but it should have been worse. Without further assistance for the nats from on high, I’m cautiously confident.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 3:37 pm

                      But where is the Labour Party that the under class and struggling working class is looking for?

                      Do you think it even matters as long as it’s a “win” on the night?

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 3:49 pm

                      been gone 25-odd years, Mrs Haversham.

                      I think it’s a “win” if the greens and mana can provide the left policy, and labour provides the bulk of the vote. And I don’t think that such a situation would be vastly different from an old FPP labour government (well, except lab4, of course).

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 4:01 pm

                      Fuck. MISS Haversham. The entire point of the character. Shitballs – I fucking hate popping into work on a sunday.

                  • The Chairman …
                    25 March 2013 at 8:01 am

                    In the context of the last election, they lost.

                    National has given Labour multiple opportunities to rise up. Labour has largely failed to capitalize from those opportunities.

              • karol …
                23 March 2013 at 7:39 am

                As one of the above eye-rollers…. show me where, in the last few months, I have said Cunliffe can do no wrong and/or should be leader?

                I have said that Cunliffe should be on the front bench, more than once. Having him in such a low level role is a waste of his capabilities.

                Less often I have said Shearer should not be leader – but hardly ever recently. More often I have said the biggest problem is with the caucus leadership team. I have also said Cunliffe is centre left, and I don’t consider him to be as left wing as myself. ie. not so much a matter of right and wrong, but of political positioning. But I don’t agree with everything he says.

                And as for Shearer’s political position? Unknown, but probably fairly far to the right of the NZP, like most of the current caucus leadership team.

                I think the NZLP is in a pretty sad state, and right now, I see no hope for an early return to core values.

                • Ad …
                  23 March 2013 at 7:58 am

                  Do you now see yourself as more a Greens or Labour supporter; has the last year re-tilted you? I’m asking because it puzzles me how little effect Labour’s internal wrangling or parliamentary performance seems to have on the polls.

                  • karol …
                    23 March 2013 at 8:07 am

                    Ad: neither. I see myself as left wing – democratic socialist, but will be happier with social democracy than what we’ve got, and what the current NZLP caucus leadership is offering. Cunliffe is social democrat.

                    I select the party & candidates to vote for in terms of which comes closest to my core political values.

                    In my younger days I voted Values. In the UK, where I got most of my political education, and largely under Thatcher’s watch, for almost 2 decades I always voted Labour.

                    Since coming back to NZ, first I voted Labour under Clark’s watch. Became somewhat disillusioned with their step back from “closing the gaps”, then more so following the foreshore & seabed debacle. Somewhere in there I voted Laila Harre (electorate) + Labour party.

                    Before the end of Clark’s watch I was voting Cunliffe + Green Party – probably will do so again next election.

                    I also like Mana (especially Sykes & Bradford), whose values are closest to my own. However, I think my party vote will be more effective going to the Greens…. may change if they slide any more towards the centre.

                • felix …
                  23 March 2013 at 11:11 am

                  Sorry karol but the new rule is that anyone who says anything even remotely critical of Shearer is only doing so to boost Cunliffe.

                  The other new rule is that any mention of the first new rule is strictly forbidden and to be met with sustained character attacks.

                • McFlock …
                  23 March 2013 at 10:47 pm

                  AS the rollee, why do you think my comment is solely about you?
                  By your own comment you have advocated shearer not being leader and cunliffe being leader, but my comments were motivated by the general thrust of the thread.

                  Frankly, I can’t recollect the last time cunliffe was criticised by someone who wanted shearer replaced. I feel such faith is unwise.

                  • Colonial Viper …
                    23 March 2013 at 11:07 pm

                    Frankly, I can’t recollect the last time cunliffe was criticised by someone who wanted shearer replaced. I feel such faith is unwise.

                    Frankly, why do you even pretend to care who is in charge of LAB? If I understand your self professed position, all you want is Labour to get around 34%/35%. Then the Greens and mana can do the heavy lifting for the left leaving Labour free to own the centre vote.

                    • McFlock …
                      23 March 2013 at 11:30 pm

                      Pretty much.

                      I don’t particularly care about who leads labour. Have said so before.

                      I do care about labour throwing away their votes with another meltdown in 2014.

                      I do care about lefties constantly going from lastgreathope to lastgreathope. The longer we do that, the longer the media will manage to keep it a nice ratings-rich two horse presidential race, rather than a more sophisticated mmp race. And the longer we’ll be disappointed when the human being we placed so much hope into turns out to be imperfect.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 9:51 am

                      I do care about lefties constantly going from lastgreathope to lastgreathope.

                      I think you are being disingenuous here. Who exactly is the series of “last great hopes” you are referring to?

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 3:07 pm

                      Just offhand:

                      Lange.
                      Anderton.
                      Nandor (for the stoners)
                      There were a couple of others that elude memory at the moment, the sort of folk where you mention their name and supporters’ eyes glaze over and they get that missionary’s smile.

                      lesser great hopes:
                      Mccarten (Alliance)
                      McCarten/Harawira (Mana).

                      Basically, the common thread is that by virtue of this one person running/starting a party/ whatevs, a whole bunch of folk start saying that THIS is the time that most people
                      A) will suddenly vote according to the way we think they should
                      B) will stick it to the ruling elite
                      C) will elect a government that will be principled and work for all except rich parasites
                      D) will legalise dope.

                      And the individual concerned is always incredibly smart, never places a foot wrong in the House or on the hustings, has words that take the form of rose petals, and generally farts fairy dust.

                      The results have never lived up to the expectation. Hell, I recall on election night ’99 Chris Trotter singing the Internationale at the Lab victory. While Lab5 improved things for a lot of people, they weren’t anywhere close to collectivising the means of production. Had to be nagged into banks and trains, FFS.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 4:50 pm

                      What kind of analysis is that? Why didn’t you stretch your analysis back to Savage, Fraser and Nash?

                      Savage especially being such a disappointment to people like Lee.

                      My point: You seem to be saying expect less from our leaders. But in reality don’t we need to expect more from our political leadership, not less?

                      Even though the risk for disappointment is higher?

                      The other failing of the Left is something that you have implicitly identified: we aren’t good enough at building tight, capable talented support teams around potential leaders. No wonder they fail when the heat gets turned up.

                      BTW I think it was wrong of you to put Lange on the list. He didn’t have a chance against the right wing faction of the day Douglas, Prebble, Caygill, and others. And that historical scenario points to another major problem with your strategy of supporting a politically centrist Labour. They will tend to constrain or suppress leadership on the left of the political spectrum.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 5:41 pm

                      I can go either way on whether Savage was a disappointment to Lee, or whether Lee just wanted everyone to recognise his own brilliance.

                      To some degree, if some folks’ characterisations here are correct, the “mallarfia” as someone called it would be a remnant of the tight team from the Clark years. Should the current caucus form a tight team for whichever leader, the same issue will afflict the following caucus.

                      I think we should expect competence, principle, integrity and honesty from our leadership. But we should also expect them to be human.

                      What I’m wary of is assigning either perfection or brilliant outcomes to individuals. Lange I think is actually a good example of the latter for the reason you outlined: a great personality, but not strong enough to oppose the tory branch of cabinet and not strong/quick/whatever enough to refuse to be prime minister of a neolib government, and it all turned to shit.

                      But there is also the distinction between having high expectations and interpreting reality according to one’s expectations. When were the last few times Cunliffe was criticised by you? If it’s been a while, is that a statistically reasonable period of error-free political action by an experienced politician? Is he really that good, or is there the possibility of perception bias?

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 5:56 pm

                      Is he really that good, or is there the possibility of perception bias?

                      a real leadership primary in Feb could have helped answer a lot of those questions definitively. C’est la vie.

                      Today Cunliffe is a backbencher with a few minor portfolios. The only expectations of him are to perform as a decent electorate MP representing the people of New Lynn. Which he has already proven quite capable of over time.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 10:12 pm

                      The only expectations?

                      Except those from people who expect cunliffe to dramatically rise again, you mean.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      24 March 2013 at 11:41 pm

                      Nice use of Christian symbology ha. Except Cunliffe has ruled himself out as a prospect multiple times, he’s been pushed back to political Siberia, and he’s been made spokesperson for misc. minor stuff.

                      Don’t get too paranoid eh. Cunliffe’s not responsible for Labour sitting in the low 30% range.

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 12:01 am

                      Tell that to theallen.

                      The expectat
                      ion thing I mean. But to be fair to cunliffe, he does share some of the credit for labour regaining support to the level of within a couple of points of what’s needed for a left govt. With 18 months to go, too.

                  • felix …
                    24 March 2013 at 9:27 am

                    “AS the rollee, why do you think my comment is solely about you?”

                    Hey McF, that’s exactly what you say to me whenever I dare to question the supremacy of the anointed holy temporary leader.

                    Still doesn’t work though. No one assumes you’re talking solely about anyone.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 1:23 pm

                      Then why do they keep asking for links where they, and only they, made comment xyz?

                    • felix …
                      24 March 2013 at 7:02 pm

                      Well in this particular example, I expect it’s because you said “all raise our eyes” or some such.

                      You’re referring to a group of commenters of which Karol is part.

                      It’s entirely reasonable for Karol to ask why you’re ascribing certain beliefs to her, but at this point you accuse her of suggesting that you were only referring to her, which you clearly weren’t, and which she never did.

                      It seems to me that you just do this because the alternative would be admitting that your first accusation – usually that criticism of Shearer = something other than criticism of Shearer -was utter bullshit.

                    • McFlock …
                      24 March 2013 at 10:06 pm

                      You’re referring to a group of commenters of which Karol is part.

                      Am I? If the hat fits, wear it.

                      My initial comment was a valid point of view, if extremely sarcastic. Cunliffe doesn’t have to be spokesman for anything. And performing competently isn’t unique, even in the labour caucus.

                      Rollyeyes implies that it’s self-evidently wrong and absurd and not worth discussion. No dialogue beyond “cunliffe outwits ’em again” will be entered into.

                    • felix …
                      25 March 2013 at 6:00 pm

                      Yes, completely ignoring the point being made is the other option. Well demonstrated.

                    • McFlock …
                      25 March 2013 at 7:32 pm

                      I responded with a plural to one person who did the rolley-eye thing. Karol, because she also did the rolley-eye thing, wants a quote to justify me saying that response about her, specifically and to that extreme. But it’s not about her, specifically. It’s about the entire thread and the abject sycophancy some people here display towards cunliffe. It’s about people who think cunliffe is the only MP who can make labour left wing again and boost its vote to some unknown level above the present polling numbers. It’s about the fact that an MP simply acting competently and doing their job is lauded as “outsmarting” an opposition cabal (real or imagined), while members of that cabal (real or imagined) can almost never do anything right. If Karol thinks that my comments could reasonably satirize her position (given that it should be obvious that I don’t think anybody here really thinks that cunliffe is literally a god), then frankly if the hat fits, wear it.

                      Is he really that good? Probably not.
                      Are they really that bad? Probably not.
                      Should people pin their hopes on one MP that much? Definitely not.

        • The Al1en 10.1.1.2
          22 March 2013 at 7:53 pm

          “What it shows McFlock is that the Mallarfia still feel threatened by him. The Revenue portfolio was meant to be a put down but instead he’s using it to outsmart them. Game one to Cunliffe.”

          Mallard’s gang must hate DC so much. Every time he opens his mouth, his class comes out, exposing their long con (post 2014 plans) game, for the mess it so clearly is.
          His rise, no doubt spectacular when it eventually comes, will hopefully be matched by the speed and manner of the TM gangs demise, ending the culture of failure in Labour’s current caucus.
          If it happens, it’ll probably the reason I’d vote red again.

          “I thought he was too principled and too loyal to play games within caucus, and was going to

          Playing games, by being effective and coherent.
          See above bit about culture of failure 😆

          “spend the next 18months on the backbenchers before leaving parliament and curing the sick by laying his hands upon them.”

          He’s good, though I’ll believe it when I see it, but no danger of ever expecting the same from Captain Mumble – His hands are made for thumbing through the statements from his overseas fortune account.

  11. George D 11
    22 March 2013 at 3:31 pm

    Good on Cunliffe for his incredible fight to prevent tax increases on the rich.

    • karol 11.1
      22 March 2013 at 4:23 pm

      Better to just tax the well off directly. Dunne’s proposal was a bit random, apparently would have impacted negatively on many low wage workers, and more have cost as much to implement as it saved.

      There are probably better ways to discourage people, who don’t need to, taking their cars to work. And better ways to implement fringe benefit taxes.

    • Colonial Viper 11.2
      22 March 2013 at 8:36 pm

      Good on Cunliffe for his incredible fight to prevent tax increases on the rich.

      Explain in 50 words or less why you are keen on a tax which costs twice as much to enforce as it can possibly bring in, thus taking money from Education and from Health.

    • xtasy 11.3
      22 March 2013 at 8:37 pm

      George D: I know where you come from, and I had my issues with the tax debate taking headlines before welfare reform issues, but it is the middle class professionals that would have been hit in most cases by parking lot, mobile phone use and laptop taxes. I am not having much pity for the middle class now, given their total contempt and indifference towards beneficiaries and what they are facing, but at least Cunliffe “performed” well, and that is where he earned respect.

    • Frank Macskasy 11.4
      23 March 2013 at 10:37 am

      Too late, George D. The Nats did that in their 2009 and 2010 tax cuts, which left a gaping $2 billion+ revenue hole.

      That’s one of the reasons the Nats are obssessed with asset sales and raising taxes on paper boys/girls, carparks, cellphones, etc. Sunshine, rain, and wind will be next. They’re desperate to make up the revenue shortfall.

      All because the Nats said that tax cuts were affordable.

      “Nats to borrow for other spending – but not tax cuts”
      – http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10524905

      Crap. It’s amazing how many gullible voters swallowed that line. But I guess if you tempt people with money (like Muldoon did in 1975, when he campaigned on dismantling the compulsory super scheme and giving our investments back to us), they’ll believe anything.

      Muppets.

      • ghostrider888 11.4.1
        23 March 2013 at 2:17 pm

        you are very funny to read Frankly

      • The Pink Postman 11.4.2
        23 March 2013 at 2:51 pm

        Frank , I am also amazed at how the political Right manage to completely con the majority of the working class. Time and time again they promise to raise the standard of living for workers then beat he hell out of them . Unemployment .cuts in wages plus cuts in social security. .Union bashing and cuts in living standards for the struggling. Yet these sufferers continue to vote Tory not only here but in the UK as well .Its beyond me and I’m getting to the stage where I’m inclined to say “Serve you right” which also makes me rather sad.

        • SHG (not Colonial Viper) 11.4.2.1
          24 March 2013 at 8:35 pm

          Simple. They appeal to those members of the working class who aspire to not be members of the working class any more.

          • Colonial Viper 11.4.2.1.1
            24 March 2013 at 11:36 pm

            That’ll keep working right up until people figure out National is road blocking class mobility.

      • UpandComer 11.4.3
        25 March 2013 at 12:07 am

        The tax cuts were fiscally neutral, and actually raised more tax due to the re-coupling of the personal and company tax rates.

        The minimum wage has gone up under National, basically on trend with it’s increases under Labour.

        The purchasing power of the dollar for the vast majority of kiwis, has never been stronger, hence why cost of living hasn’t utterly derailed the govt.

        The Deficits National has had to deal with, derive primarily from the 2005 spending policies of Helen Clark, and ongoing social security requirements.

        The irony of you discussing a National govt ‘tempting’ people, with their own money, given the left wing freebies for everyone, hell, even free houses, is priceless.

        The irony of you talking about National ‘borrowing’ for tax cuts, when a) they haven’t, and b) Micheal Cullen actually did, is also priceless.

        • Colonial Viper 11.4.3.1
          25 March 2013 at 12:12 am

          You’re an absolute fucking liar.

          Cullen paid back massive amounts of public debt.

          English is now borrowing $250M-$300M per week in order to compensate for revenues he lost to his own badly timed and badly misjudged tax cuts for the rich. For himself, in other words.

        • Draco T Bastard 11.4.3.2
          25 March 2013 at 12:35 am

          The tax cuts were fiscally neutral, and actually raised more tax due to the re-coupling of the personal and company tax rates.

          No they weren’t and the company tax rate was dropped 5% at the same time as personal tax rate was dropped 5%. And it’s physically impossible to bring in more tax when tax rates are dropped.

          The purchasing power of the dollar for the vast majority of kiwis, has never been stronger, hence why cost of living hasn’t utterly derailed the govt.

          Which would explain this government getting away with its plan to sell us out.

          The Deficits National has had to deal with, derive primarily from the 2005 spending policies of Helen Clark, and ongoing social security requirements.

          No, they derive solely from Nationals tax cuts for the rich.

          The irony of you talking about National ‘borrowing’ for tax cuts, when a) they haven’t, and b) Micheal Cullen actually did, is also priceless.

          National are borrowing for the tax cuts that they gave to the rich, Cullen was running a surplus.

          Really, all I’m seeing from you is a rewriting of history to try and get it to match your delusional beliefs.

  12. Rob 12
    22 March 2013 at 4:11 pm

    Pretty easy to look brilliant opposing this proposal.

    • felix 12.1
      24 March 2013 at 8:45 pm

      Pretty easy to look brilliant opposing most of this govt’s policies, but so few in the lab caucus seem to manage looking competent let alone brilliant.

  13. xtasy 13
    22 March 2013 at 8:34 pm

    So a backseater does so well, while the leader is – well improving a bit on the media side – still struggling to come out with plans and agendas to show National are a load of self serving crap meisters.

    I suppose Cunliffe will do the hard work, learn and improve on team work, and will come out the winner and future leader in the end. That is natural evolution, no doubt!

    • Colonial Viper 13.1
      22 March 2013 at 8:37 pm

      But at the cost of a third Tory term? It’s too much 🙁

      • xtasy 13.1.1
        22 March 2013 at 10:14 pm

        Stink bomb each Nat Party MP electorate, to expose the stench, perhaps, that comes with “rotten government”? That may turn their supporters and voters off.

  14. AmaKiwi 14
    22 March 2013 at 9:53 pm

    “I suppose Cunliffe will do the hard work, learn and improve on team work, and will come out the winner and future leader in the end. That is natural evolution, no doubt!”

    Unlike some of the ABC gang, Cunliffe has lots of options outside parliament. Prior to parliament, he worked for 4 years at the Boston Consulting Group. With his 14 years in parliament and cabinet successes in IT, Health, and Finance, they’d probably offer him 5 times what he makes as an MP. And he wouldn’t be taking orders from incompetents.

    I am grateful Cunliffe has hung in there. But I would not fault him for finding a much more lucrative and less combative job elsewhere.

    Unless Cunliffe eventually becomes PM, his talents for the Goff-Shearer 6 years in opposition will have been wasted. And NZ will have lost a potentially great leader.

  15. RedBaron 15
    22 March 2013 at 10:12 pm

    I too want Cunliffe to hang in there.

    Any chance that he might make tax hay about the youth rate and taxing schoolkid’s wages. That was really low of English -taxing kids!

    The sort of line that goes ” other countries have a free fire zones, no tax on the first $20000 in Australia, around 8000 pds in the Uk etc. Here the Nats are so set on giving tax cuts to the rich that they balance their books by taxing schoolkids – that’s right – paper rounds so that Jkey gets a rise.

    Then they bring in youth wages, again so that the kids can take the hit.

    Is Mr Key’s motto “show us the money? or “Give us your money kids” .

    • Colonial Viper 15.1
      22 March 2013 at 10:14 pm

      The established middle and upper classes are feeding on the young. They do it in the housing market, in education, in the workforce; it’s a mess.

      • xtasy 15.1.1
        22 March 2013 at 10:22 pm

        All stuff for a revolution, but then again, the young are all too scared, conscious of their little interests and will not take action. Years of involvement with activists, and having been to protests have shown me, there is minimal unity, support and action. It is everyone on their own, and this has been created by divide and rule, the privatisation and other agendas, since the late 1980s and early 1990s. Younger people have NO idea of a different society than what they grew up in. And they do naturally, to generational differences, not want to believe their parents or us who have been around longer. Re inventing the wheel seems to be necessary in social revolution.

    • Frank Macskasy 15.2
      23 March 2013 at 10:39 am

      Excellent summation, Red Baron.

  16. RedBaronCV 16
    22 March 2013 at 10:23 pm

    Quite right CV. But this should be upsetting a lot of the parents and grandparents too. Now a clever opposition would be using this to drive a huge wedge between the Nats and the middle classes who will either have their kids overseas or living with them till they are 40.

    • Colonial Viper 16.1
      22 March 2013 at 11:25 pm

      Within 10 years, many old wealthy right wing pricks who engineered and gamed this system are going to be spoonfed and arse wiped by immigrant labour who can’t speak English.

      While their own kids are ten thousand miles away not giving a damn.

      Her name is Karma and she is a bitch.

      • Alanz 16.1.1
        23 March 2013 at 7:59 am

        +1

        yes, greater publicity about this please

      • Ad 16.1.2
        23 March 2013 at 8:34 am

        Anyone else aiming for Tiresius’ ideal of living largely off grid and self sufficient with reasonable acreage, deep into the internet-connected hills?

        My bet is within 10 years we will be fine, except “we” will be largely Chinese and Australians, picking up the rent/dividend every month, staying here long enough to be Resident but not long enough to pick up NZSuper, then off again. Not sure what happens to Old Zealand.

        • Colonial Viper 16.1.2.1
          23 March 2013 at 9:49 am

          My bet is within 10 years we will be fine

          I expect we’ll be hit with a combination oil crisis and financial crisis in the next 4-5 years.

        • ghostrider888 16.1.2.2
          23 March 2013 at 2:20 pm

          moi; and all from 16 down is pretty on the money.

      • Frank Macskasy 16.1.3
        23 March 2013 at 10:40 am

        CV – that has to be a quote that’ll end up a meme on Facebook…

  17. Tombstone 17
    24 March 2013 at 9:49 am

    Cunliffe should be leading the party – pure and simple. Nice guy Shearer simply doesn’t inspire me and leaders should be seen to inspire – just aint happening and that worries me.

    • Elizabeth Bourchier 17.1
      24 March 2013 at 6:29 pm

      “Nice guy Shearer” ???????
      I’ve had a jerebaum full of that lie.

      When has he demonstrate that trait?

      He has demonstrated vindictiveness.
      He has demonstrated selfishness.
      He has demonstrated narcissism.

    • Hami Shearlie 17.2
      24 March 2013 at 11:35 pm

      Totally agree – Cunliffe looks and sounds like a leader. Charisma, brains and class. I could definitely see him footing it on the international stage – Shearer would be nothing but an embarrassment! I’ve wondered how on earth he got to that position he held in the U.N.? He sure never looks or sounds like a leader, so indecisive and bumbling – frankly, I cringe every time he opens his “yap”!! Shearer doesn’t inspire anyone, and I don’t believe he’s the “nice guy” that the ABC crowd keep stressing he is!! No-one knows yet what he actually believes in and he’s been leader for nearly 18 months!!

      • Colonial Viper 17.2.1
        24 March 2013 at 11:54 pm

        No-one knows yet what he actually believes in and he’s been leader for nearly 18 months!!

        This suggests a very big problem.

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    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
    7 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    10 hours ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
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    2 days ago

  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
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    2 days ago

  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
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    2 days ago

  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
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    2 days ago

  • Government focused on getting people into work
    Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
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    3 days ago

  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
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    3 days ago

  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
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    3 days ago

  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
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    3 days ago

  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
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    4 days ago

  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
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    5 days ago

  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
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    5 days ago

  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has made further appointments to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand as part of a continued effort to ensure the Scott Base Redevelopment project is delivered in a cost-effective and efficient manner.  The Minister has appointed Neville Harris as a new member of the Board. Mr ...
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    5 days ago

  • Finance Minister travels to Washington DC
    Finance Minister Nicola Willis will travel to the United States on Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Five Finance Ministers group, with counterparts from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.  “I am looking forward to meeting with our Five Finance partners on how we can work ...
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    5 days ago

  • Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords
    The coalition Government has today announced purrfect and pawsitive changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to give tenants with pets greater choice when looking for a rental property, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “Pets are important members of many Kiwi families. It’s estimated that around 64 per cent of New ...
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    5 days ago

  • Long Tunnel for SH1 Wellington being considered
    State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the Government has also asked NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to consider and provide advice on a Long Tunnel option, Transport Minister Simeon Brown ...
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    6 days ago

  • New Zealand condemns Iranian strikes
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have condemned Iran’s shocking and illegal strikes against Israel.    “These attacks are a major challenge to peace and stability in a region already under enormous pressure," Mr Luxon says.    "We are deeply concerned that miscalculation on any side could ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Huge interest in Government’s infrastructure plans
    Hundreds of people in little over a week have turned out in Northland to hear Regional Development Minister Shane Jones speak about plans for boosting the regional economy through infrastructure. About 200 people from the infrastructure and associated sectors attended an event headlined by Mr Jones in Whangarei today. Last ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Health Minister thanks outgoing Health New Zealand Chair
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has today thanked outgoing Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Chair Dame Karen Poutasi for her service on the Board.   “Dame Karen tendered her resignation as Chair and as a member of the Board today,” says Dr Reti.  “I have asked her to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Roads of National Significance planning underway
    The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has signalled their proposed delivery approach for the Government’s 15 Roads of National Significance (RoNS), with the release of the State Highway Investment Proposal (SHIP) today, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.  “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Navigating an unstable global environment
    New Zealand is renewing its connections with a world facing urgent challenges by pursuing an active, energetic foreign policy, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “Our country faces the most unstable global environment in decades,” Mr Peters says at the conclusion of two weeks of engagements in Egypt, Europe and the United States.    “We cannot afford to sit back in splendid ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ welcomes Australian Governor-General
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced the Australian Governor-General, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley and his wife Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, will make a State visit to New Zealand from Tuesday 16 April to Thursday 18 April. The visit reciprocates the State visit of former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pseudoephedrine back on shelves for Winter
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced that Medsafe has approved 11 cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pharmaceutical suppliers have indicated they may be able to supply the first products in June. “This is much earlier than the original expectation of medicines being available by 2025. The Government recognised ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ and the US: an ever closer partnership
    New Zealand and the United States have recommitted to their strategic partnership in Washington DC today, pledging to work ever more closely together in support of shared values and interests, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.    “The strategic environment that New Zealand and the United States face is considerably more ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Joint US and NZ declaration
    April 11, 2024 Joint Declaration by United States Secretary of State the Honorable Antony J. Blinken and New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs the Right Honourable Winston Peters We met today in Washington, D.C. to recommit to the historic partnership between our two countries and the principles that underpin it—rule ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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