Daily Review 19/12/2018
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5:30 pm, December 19th, 2018 - 79 comments
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Police say the two victims were found lodged “firmly underneath” the bus. Two people are in a serious condition this evening after an incident apparently involving the New Zealand First campaign bus. They are presently unable to be identified. Authorities say two people were found underneath the bus shortly after ...9 hours ago - This doesn’t sound like exoneration
The SFO has finally reported back on NZ First's dodgy foundation, and charged two people with "obtaining by deception". They're at pains to say that neither of the people charged (who have name suppression, but we can all guess who they are, even if we cannot say publicly) is a ...13 hours ago - Elections in NZ: some Redline articles
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- Dunedin as Spring Snowglobe
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- Crusher threatens Nicky Hager
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Much of the commentariat’s reporting of the most recent GDP figure was misleading and unhelpful. The prize for the stupidest remark about the GDP figure for second quarter 2020 (2020Q2) released on Thursday (17 Sept) goes to Judith Collins, whose response to Grant Robertson’s comments indicated she did not ...1 week ago- Love and Hate as Complementary Revolutionary Actsby Gearóid Ó Loingsigh goloing@gmail.com (19/09/2020) Che Guevara said that a true revolutionary is motivated by love i.e. love of the oppressed, the poor, the children dying from preventable illnesses. This phrase of his is true but has been used by reformists and their more hippy wing have taken advantage ...1 week ago
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- Greens announce bold transport plan for Wellington to tackle climate change and congestionThe Green Party has today outlined a major transport plan for Wellington including investments in light rail, an expansion of regional passenger rail, and fast-tracking improvements to buses. ...17 hours ago
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- Labour’s plan for plastic and waste
As part of our plan to build back better, we’re taking action on waste and improving recycling to protect our environment, create jobs and future proof our economy. ...2 days ago - Labour’s plan for plastic and wasteAs part of our plan to build back better, we’re taking action on waste and improving recycling to protect our environment, create jobs and future proof our economy. ...2 days ago
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- Environment and climate will be decimated by National’s dangerous agriculture policyThe Green Party is slamming National’s agriculture policy as a huge step backwards which puts future generations at risk. ...6 days ago
- Reducing costs for Kiwi farmersNew Zealand’s farmers and growers play a key role in our economy and in our communities. Labour has set out a clear vision to transition to a carbon-neutral economy and today we committed to supporting our farmers and growers to achieve this goal. ...7 days ago
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- Why should I vote for Labour?Labour has a strong track record of making progress on the big issues facing our country. Now, as we recover and rebuild from COVID-19, we’re rolling out our plan to grow our economy, support businesses and communities, and keep New Zealand moving. If you’re still undecided ahead of this year’s ...1 week ago
- Greens call for a bus lane to bypass congestion on Harbour BridgeThe Green Party is calling for Waka Kotahi the NZ Transport Agency to convert a lane over the Auckland Harbour Bridge to bus-only and make buses free to use across the bridge until all lanes are back in operation. ...1 week ago
- Greens to protect Aotearoa’s oceans with marine sanctuaries, bottom trawling and set-netting restr...The Green Party has released its Thriving Oceans Plan, which would dramatically increase marine protected areas and ban bottom trawling on seamounts. ...1 week ago
- Week that was: Jobs, trades training and supporting Kiwi workersIt was another busy week out on the campaign trail, with Labour focused on jobs, training, and supporting Kiwi workers. As we continue to roll out our five-point plan for recovery, we’re investing in our people, businesses, communities and vital services, so we can keep our economy moving as we ...1 week ago
- Labour is backing our regions for recoveryOur regions are a vital part of our economic recovery plan. They’re home to innovative and creative businesses, and the backbone of our export economy - which is why Labour will continue to support our regions to grow as together, we rebuild better. ...2 weeks ago
- Green Party will work next term with Labour to quickly implement Fair Pay Agreements and extended si...The Green Party welcome Labour committing to implement fair pay agreements and extended sick leave for workers in the next term of Government. ...2 weeks ago
- No surprise in National’s latest attempt to slash public servicesNational’s ‘alternative budget’ that includes huge cuts to the government’s operating allowance would risk gutting critical public services, and put health, education and nature at dire risk. ...2 weeks ago
- Latest figures show stronger economic recoveryData released this week shows that, while New Zealand is not immune to the economic impacts of the global pandemic, our strong health response has meant we’ve been able to get our economy going faster than many other countries. ...2 weeks ago
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- PREFU shows efforts to keep us all healthy, now we need to revenue raisePREFU has given a good insight into what was required to ensure New Zealanders were largely supported to continue work and remain healthy during COVID-19, but it is clear we need additional revenue raising measures ongoing, Green Party Co-leader James Shaw said today. ...2 weeks ago
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- Labour are backing teachers and building a stronger, fairer education systemIn the first two years of our term in Government, we gave teachers record pay rises as a way of recognising the lack of adequate adjustments over the previous decade and the significant role they play in the lives of children and young people. We also increased the number of ...2 weeks ago
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- Labour supports working New ZealandersLabour has a proud history of supporting working New Zealanders, whether through the implementation of the 40hr work week or the introduction of the Working for Families package. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens will push next term for Government to expand dignified income beyond public service with Fair...The Green Party welcome Labour’s commitment to extend the living wage to Government contractors, but will push for Fair Pay Agreements across industries in the next Government so more New Zealanders can earn a dignified income. ...2 weeks ago
- Government must walk the talk on commitment to te reo MāoriThe Green Party is urging the Government to act on its commitment to te reo Māori, by making it a core subject up to year 10, and including te reo courses in the Targeted Training and Apprenticeships scheme. ...2 weeks ago
- Week That Was: Back on the campaign trailWe're officially back to the campaign for the 2020 General Election. The campaign may look a little different this year, but our candidates are still getting out and about in their communities and spreading the word about how another term of Labour will keep New Zealand moving in the right ...2 weeks ago
- Labour’s plan to bring down debt: Your questions answeredYou might have heard a bit of discussion about Government debt lately, as experts weigh in on the COVID-19 economic recovery. If you’re wondering why it’s such a contested topic, or even if you’re unsure of what Government debt actually is, then read on - we’ve got you covered! ...3 weeks ago
- Greens unveil $297m fund to support sustainable food and farmingThe Green Party has released its Farming for the Future Plan, including a $297m fund to support farmers and growers to transition to climate-friendly practices. ...3 weeks ago
- Labour’s plan for tax: Your questions answeredWe believe every New Zealander deserves the chance to make an informed decision on Election Day. We’ve answered some of the most common questions on our 2020 tax policy, including how much money will be raised from our new top tax rate, and how this will be used to control ...3 weeks ago
- Labour’s energy policy shows progress, but more action needed to protect the planetThe Green Party says Labour’s energy policy is a step in the right direction, but the Greens would go further and faster to meaningfully tackle the climate crisis. ...3 weeks ago
- How does tax work?All this tax talk leaving you a bit dazed and confused? Read below to find out more about our progressive tax system and what Labour's policy means for you. ...3 weeks ago
- Pasifika churches gain from PGF funding
Pasifika churches around the country will receive a total of nearly $10 million in government funding for renovations and improvements which will improve facilities for the communities they serve and create jobs, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones and Pacific Peoples Minister Aupito William Sio have announced. The funding will ...16 hours ago - Job numbers up in AugustNew data from Stats NZ today shows a rise of more than 9,000 filled jobs from July – driven mostly by the education and training sector, Grant Robertson says. Filled jobs were up 9,147 to 2.2 million in August 2020 compared with July – with 7,409 of those in education ...2 days ago
- Māori development receives fundingMāori development projects across the country will receive a total of $18.8 million from the Provincial Growth Fund that will create infrastructure and permanent jobs, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced today. “These projects will support economic development in Northland, Bay of Plenty, Tairawhiti, Manawatū-Whanganui, Waikato and Southland to ...2 days ago
- Hand-up for owners of earthquake-prone unitsFrom today, owner-occupiers of unit and apartments living in earthquake-prone buildings can apply for financial support to fix their homes, Minister for Building and Construction Jenny Salesa says. The Residential Earthquake-Prone Building Financial Assistance Scheme will help unit owners facing financial hardship over earthquake strengthening costs. “We understand how complicated ...2 days ago
- PGF backing successful Māori enterpriseWhanganui will benefit from a Provincial Growth Fund investment in a local food-processing company which will help the company increase production and create jobs, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says. Kii Tahi Ltd, which is owned by South Taranaki iwi Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi, will receive a Provincial Growth Fund ...2 days ago
- Hokitika Landmark earmarked for $22m restorationSeddon House in Hokitika, once a hub for government on the West Coast, has been earmarked for government use once again. “Today we’re announcing a $22 million investment from the Government’s $3 billion infrastructure fund for shovel ready projects for the purchase and restoration of Seddon House in the heart of ...4 days ago
- Town halls and war memorials in PGF renovation programmeTown halls, war memorials and other community landmarks across the country will be renovated thanks to grants totalling just under $12.4 million from the Provincial Growth Fund. Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says more than 1000 jobs are expected to be created during the renovation programme. “Town halls, other ...4 days ago
- Minister of Foreign Affairs makes two diplomatic appointmentsForeign Minister Winston Peters has announced two new diplomatic appointments: • Michael Appleton as New Zealand’s first resident High Commissioner to Sri Lanka. • Tredene Dobson as New Zealand’s next Ambassador to Viet Nam. Sri Lanka “New Zealand is opening a post in Colombo in 2021 because we are ready ...5 days ago
- NZ’s most prestigious conservation award – Loder Cup presented to Graeme AtkinsThe Minister of Conservation Minister, Eugenie Sage, today presented Aotearoa New Zealand’s most prestigious conservation award, the Loder Cup, to the 2020 winner Graeme Atkins while in Gisborne/Tūranga-nui-a-Kiwa. “Graeme Atkins of Ngāti Porou is a Department of Conservation ranger whose contribution to conservation goes well above and beyond his employment,” ...5 days ago
- Early help for whānau who need extra supportThe Government is investing in a new, whānau-centred early intervention prototype designed to strengthen families and improve the safety and wellbeing of children. The new programme, Ngā Tini Whetū, is a collaboration between Oranga Tamariki, Te Puni Kōkiri, ACC and the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency (WOCA) and was announced today ...5 days ago
- Parliament to install solar and cut carbonParliament is leading by example by taking action to cut its carbon footprint by installing solar and improving energy efficiency, the Minister for Climate Change, James Shaw said today. The Minister confirmed that Parliamentary Services will receive support through the Clean-Powered Public Service Fund to install solar PV and LED ...5 days ago
- Tuvalu Language Week theme promotes community resilience in the face of COVID-19The Minister for Pacific Peoples, Aupito William Sio says the 2020 Tuvalu Language Week theme of “Fakatili Te Kiloga Fou” which means “Navigating the changing environment” is a call on all Pacific peoples to be strong and resilient in the face of COVID-19. “This theme is a reminder to us ...5 days ago
- International sport back up and running in New ZealandThe Government is welcoming today’s announcement that the West Indies and Pakistan cricket teams will tour New Zealand this summer. “A lot of hard work has been undertaken by sports officials including New Zealand Cricket, Netball New Zealand and government officials to ensure that international sport can return safely to ...5 days ago
- 1BT funds for Northland forest taongaNorthland’s indigenous tree canopy is set to grow for the benefit of mana whenua and the wider community thanks to nearly $2 million in One Billion Trees funding, Forestry Minister Shane Jones announced today. Te Komanga Marae Trust has received more than $1.54 million to restore and enhance the native ...5 days ago
- Better health care for West Coasters as Te Nikau Hospital officially openedThe Government has delivered a new hospital for Greymouth and is starting work on a much needed new health centre in Westport, ensuring local communities will benefit from better access to high quality integrated health services. Today, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Associate Health Minister Peeni Henare officially open Te ...5 days ago
- Government backing local with PGF loanA West Coast distillery will benefit from a Provincial Growth Fund investment that will enable it to expand its operations and create jobs in the town of Reefton, Rural Communities Minister Damien O’Connor and Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones have announced. The Reefton Distilling Co will receive a $928,000 ...5 days ago
- Primary sector exports and jobs up againPrimary sector exports and jobs are up again, demonstrating the sector’s underlying strength amid the COVID-19 global pandemic and US-China trade war, and supporting New Zealand’s economic recovery. Stats NZ today reported New Zealand’s merchandise exports in August were up 8.6% on a year ago, driven by an increase in ...6 days ago
- Clean energy future for more schoolsSchools across Aotearoa New Zealand will be supported by the Government to upgrade to run on clean energy, the Minister for Climate Change James Shaw announced today. The Minister has allocated $50 million from the Clean Powered Public Service Fund to replace, or convert, coal boilers in schools with clean ...6 days ago
- Building business strength with digital toolsNew training and tools for digital commerce will give small businesses, especially in the tourism sector, the support they need to adapt and innovate in a COVID world. Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis and Small Business Minister Stuart Nash have announced details of how $20 million digital capability funding set aside ...6 days ago
- New pest lures to protect natureThe Department of Conservation (DOC) is investing $1.4 million to develop new predator lures that would be game-changers for trapping and surveillance towards a predator-free Aotearoa, the Minister of Conservation Eugenie Sage, announced in Christchurch today. The proposal is to develop long-life lures attractive to a range of predators—rats, mustelids ...6 days ago
- Support for innovative Pacific education responses to COVID-19 needsSupporting new and creative Pacific education practices as part of our COVID-19 response and recovery is the focus of a new $28.5 million Pacific Education Innovation Fund announced today by Associate Minister of Education Jenny Salesa. “There is already an incredible amount of innovative and creative work going on in ...7 days ago
- Eligibility expanded for COVID-19 leave supportThe expanded scheme will cover: People who have COVID-19 like symptoms and meet the Ministry of Health’s criteria, and need to self-isolate while awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test. People who are directed to self-isolate by a Medical Officer of Health or their delegate or on advice of their ...1 week ago
- Seasonal work visa available to more peopleThe Government is putting in place a range of immigration policy changes to help fill labour shortages in key industries while ensuring New Zealanders, who have lost jobs due to COVID-19, have the chance to find new employment. “Two key sectors we are moving to help are horticulture and wine ...1 week ago
- More border exceptions for critical rolesThe Government has established class exceptions for border entry for a limited number of veterinarians, deep sea fishing crew, as well as agricultural and horticultural machinery operators. “Tight border restrictions remain the backbone of the Government’s border strategy to protect New Zealand against COVID-19 and ensure New Zealand citizens and ...1 week ago
- Crown will not appeal Dodds v Southern Response decisionThe Crown will not appeal the Court of Appeal decision in the Dodds v Southern Response case, Grant Robertson announced today. “Southern Response will be paying the damages awarded by the Court to Mr and Mrs Dodds shortly. The Crown was already meeting their legal costs for this appeal. “The ...1 week ago
- Crucial PGF investments for NorthlandThe Provincial Growth Fund is investing nearly $30 million in a diverse range of projects that will create immediate and long-term jobs and lift economic and social outcomes for Northland and its people. Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones made the announcement today in ...1 week ago
- $27million investment in global vaccine facilityThe Coalition Government has committed to invest $27 million in COVID-19 vaccine development through the global COVAX Facility, Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced today. “The COVAX Facility is a key part of our COVID-19 Vaccine Strategy to obtain safe and effective vaccines. It allows us to invest in a high-quality, ...1 week ago
- Government backing Māori landownersThe Government will provide up to $1.69 million through the One Billion Trees programme to Māori landowners to make their whenua more productive through the planting of forests, both native and exotic, and improve economic and environmental outcomes, Forestry Minister Shane Jones has announced. “Around 1.5 million ha of land ...2 weeks ago
- New tools to make nature more accessiblePeople planning to head outdoors now have a resource that lets them know how accessible an area is for people with varying levels of mobility, Minister of Conservation Eugenie Sage announced today. The Halberg Foundation, Sensibel, and the Department of Conservation (DOC) have launched Accessibel, a new tool which helps ...2 weeks ago
- PGF makes Māori history more accessibleOne of the most significant battle sites of the 1860s Land Wars will receive $2.96 million from the Provincial Growth Fund to improve the site and help tell the New Zealand story to visitors, Māori Development Minister Nanaia Mahuta and Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones have announced. Nanaia Mahuta ...2 weeks ago
- Making it official: The journey of te reo Māori | Kia whakapūmautia: Ngā piki me ngā heke o te r...The journey towards recognising Māori as an official language and taonga has been captured as a web series and launched today during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, announced Associate Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Carmel Sepuloni. “Te reo Māori is a living language, and understanding its significance, and pathways to ...2 weeks ago
- Better-than-forecast GDP reflects decision to protect New ZealandToday’s better-than-forecast GDP figures show the expected impact of the decision to act quickly to protect New Zealanders from the global COVID-19 pandemic. GDP fell 12.2% in the June quarter from March, reflecting decisions to close New Zealand’s borders and enter Alert Level 4. “This result was better than the ...2 weeks ago
- Boost for COVID-19 related Pacific education needsThe Government is investing $39.7 Million over four years to support the educational needs of Pacific learners and families in the regions hardest hit by COVID-19, with Auckland getting an immediate boost, Associate Minister of Education Jenny Salesa says. “Like all New Zealanders Pacific families want learners to do well ...2 weeks ago
- More resources for kiwi conservationNew Zealand’s goal of 100,000 kiwi by 2030 is being helped by an extra $19.7 million in funding to accelerate iwi and community efforts to protect kiwi, Minister of Conservation Eugenie Sage announced. “$19.7 million of Jobs for Nature funding is being invested in kiwi conservation activities including increased predator ...2 weeks ago
- Improving access to affordable electricityEnsuring New Zealanders can get the best deal on their electricity takes a step in the right direction today with the South Island launch of the EnergyMate pilot run by the Electricity Retailers’ Association, says Minister of Energy and Resources, Dr Megan Woods. EnergyMate is an industry-led programme providing coaching ...2 weeks ago
- Government achieves 50 percent women on state boardsMinister for Women Julie Anne Genter announced today that the Government has reached its target of 50 percent on women on state sector board and committees – setting a new record level of women on state sector boards. “This Government is committed to having more women in leadership roles - ...2 weeks ago
- Record transport investment to help economic recovery and save livesTransport Minister Phil Twyford released today the final Government Policy Statement on land transport (GPS) 2021 which outlines the planned $48 billion investment in services and infrastructure over the next decade. “The final GPS supports our Government’s five-point plan for economic recovery by confirming our record investments in transport infrastructure ...2 weeks ago
- Advancing clean energy technologyThree ambitious and cutting-edge research programmes that will lift New Zealand’s advanced energy technology research capability over seven years, have been supported by Government today, says Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods. The projects will each receive a share of $40.7 million investment from the Strategic Science Investment Fund. ...2 weeks ago
- Major milestone reached in Pike River Re-entryThe critical area for forensic examination known as Pit Bottom in Stone has been reached in what is a major milestone for the Pike River re-entry project, Minister Responsible for Pike River Re-entry Andrew Little announced. “The infrastructure located in Pit Bottom in Stone is of very significant interest in ...2 weeks ago
- Economic recovery guides Govt response to retirement income policy reviewThe Government is working on how New Zealand’s retirement income policies and settings can best support Kiwis in light of the COVID-19 economic recovery, with the help of the Retirement Commissioner’s latest review, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Kris Faafoi said. “The Retirement Commissioner’s three-yearly review into New Zealand’s retirement ...2 weeks ago
- Labour promised big on housing – has it delivered?
The Labour Party promised to reduce homelessness, boost state housing stock and build thousands of homes during its first term. Eva Corlett looks at how the party has done. ...33 mins ago - Why ‘moonscape’ mine was under-bonded
"Poor management” of mining backfill left a large hole on public conservation land. Farah Hancock reports. A problem caused by “poor management” of backfill at a mine on public conservation land would have cost hundreds of thousands of dollars more than the mine was bonded by to fix. The mine in Mikonui ...49 mins ago - Is China heading into the ‘treason trap’?
Victoria University of Wellington's Arthur Pomeroy looks to ancient Greece and Rome to better understand modern China and if it is heading into the ‘Treason Trap’ of imperial Rome The world of ancient Greece and Rome is regularly referenced when considering modern events. Julius Caesar, Nero and the Fall of the ...49 mins ago - Reimagining Taranaki’s just transition
As Taranaki prepares to transition to a low carbon economy, what would an effective and just transition actually look like? ...49 mins ago - Meet the young guns of the Farah Palmer Cup
It’s halfway through the Farah Palmer Cup season and some say it’s the best yet. LockerRoom's rugby writer Ashley Stanley picks her stand-out young players - and some evergreens - so far. The injection of Black Ferns 15s and sevens players into the rejigged Farah Palmer Cup competition has boosted the standard ...49 mins ago - Winston Peters’ smoke and mirrors fails to hide the truth
The New Zealand First leader displayed his usual bluster as he tried to wave off Serious Fraud Office charges over a foundation linked to the party - but even Winston Peters may not be able to talk his way out of this one, Sam Sachdeva writes In a gallery room ...49 mins ago - Why Bill English should vote yes to cannabis reform
At this election we have a chance to do something about the moral failure that is prisons and our justice system by voting to make cannabis legal. ...49 mins ago - NZ First’s desperate flurry for court secrecy
New Zealand First, and one defendant, really didn't want the public to know the SFO is laying charges in the NZ First Foundation case. Tim Murphy outlines the extent of their legal manoeuvrings. As the Serious Fraud Office prepared to announce charges against two people in its New Zealand First Foundation ...49 mins ago - Planning for affordability
Wellington housing is on an utterly unsustainable path and developers need to be able to build up and out ...49 mins ago - Election 2020: How party leaders would house Kiwis
You asked us to make the climate emergency, housing, health, and justice reform key election issues. Today, we share the third of the top five election questions, chosen by you - our readers - for the political leaders vying for your votes. New Zealand housing: there's not enough of it, it's incredibly ...49 mins ago - The spy who loved his lesbian sister’s girlfriend
Keith Ovenden remembers his father-in-law Bill Sutch, arrested on suspicion of spying, and ponders whether a tragic love story was behind his fall from grace Bill’s last year, the end of his journey, was a catastrophe. In the spring of 1974 he was arrested and charged with an offence ...49 mins ago - Misinformation isn’t new, so how can we control it?
In episode three of Conversations that Count – Ngā Kōrero Whai Take, we take a very timely deep-dive into the complicated world of online misinformation and disinformation.In some ways, the large-scale wave of disinformation which has swamped New Zealand’s streets and social feeds throughout 2020 comes without surprise. Faced with ...1 hour ago - Nothing to do with the NZ First Party? Seriously laughableWinston Peters claims complete exoneration, but the idea the fundraising activities of the NZ First Foundation are unlinked to the party just won’t wash, writes electoral law expert Andrew Geddis.The Serious Fraud Office’s announcement that it has charged two people with “obtaining by deception” after its investigation into the New ...1 hour ago
- Act up: The simple strategy behind the party’s surprise resurgenceAll it took was a laser focus on gettable centre-right voters, writes Ben Thomas.Act has previously called itself the “party of the individual” and, since 2011 with only a single MP, that has been quite literally true. Luckily for its long-time – and long suffering – supporters, this year that ...1 hour ago
- Fruit picking squeeze
It's the annual story - orchardists can't get fruit pickers at harvest time. Now with no immigrant workers, the situation is even more dire. But there's a reason unemployed New Zealanders won't take up the jobs. With closed borders and no backpackers or casual labour coming in, the fruit picking ...1 hour ago - Winston Peters puts his mouth where his money is
Some big New Zealand First donors will be pleased that flagship government conservation measures have been stalled for the past three years, writes Jonathan Milne. ...1 hour ago - Police forcibly disperse student protest against Special Autonomy in Jayapura
Pacific Media Centre Newsdesk Indonesian police forcibly dispersed a student protest near the Cendrawasih University (Uncen) in Jayapura, Papua, yesterday and the police “denied any clash” even though video footage shows action by heavily armoured security forces. The students were protesting against an extension of Special Autonomy (Otsus) for Papua. ...6 hours ago - Faster public health response might have saved some aged care residents’ lives: Brendan MurphySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Federal Health Department Secretary Brendan Murphy has admitted some COVID deaths in aged care might have been prevented if there had been a quicker public health response. Murphy, Chief Medical Officer until mid year, told ...6 hours ago
- National overstates benefit of NZ tax cut planWould New Zealanders earning between $50,000 and $70,000 be $3000 better off under National's proposed tax cuts? ...9 hours ago
- Going cashless isn’t straightforward. Ask Sweden, or ZimbabweSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Vasantkumar, Lecturer in Anthropology, Macquarie University “No Cash Accepted” signs are increasingly common in Australian shops, thanks to COVID-19. Even before the the pandemic struck, though, we were well along the cashless path, with demand for coins halving between 2013 and ...10 hours ago
- We can build a more inclusive government and economy out of the pandemic — this blueprint shows us...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amanda Tattersall, Research Lead Sydney Policy Lab, Postdoctoral Fellow Geography, Host of ChangeMakers Podcast, University of Sydney When the COVID-19 pandemic transformed our lives earlier this year, our political leaders joined hands and said we were all in this together — and ...11 hours ago
- Regional Pasifika churches receive $10m from PGFRegional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says 27 churches will benefit from the funding, as part of the Covid-19 response and recovery plan. ...11 hours ago
- Government’s $800m Digital Business plan will let you access myGov with facial recognitionSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rob Nicholls, Associate professor in Business Law. Director of the UNSW Business School Cybersecurity and Data Governance Research Network, UNSW An A$800 million JobMaker Digital Business Plan has been released this week to support economic recovery in the wake of COVID-19. Treasurer ...11 hours ago
- LIVE: Clark v Collins debate cannabis referendum
Join Newsroom columnist Shane Te Pou and former MP Tau Henare as they host Korero Mai, a debate on the cannabis referendum live from Auckland Arguing the case that recreational use of cannabis should become legal are former PM Helen Clark and Media commentator, Russell Brown. The case against will be ...11 hours ago - ‘Our own 1945 moment’. What do rising China-US tensions mean for the UN?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melissa Conley Tyler, Research Fellow, Asia Institute, University of Melbourne As the General Assembly’s 75th session wraps up on Wednesday, it’s been a dramatic time at the United Nations. Usually, this is the time of year when world leaders come to New ...12 hours ago
- Exporting Corruption Downunder
Free Webinar. Thursday 15th October, 6.30 pm- New Zealand; 4.30 pm - Australia and 8.30 am - Berlin Join our Australasian/international discussion on foreign bribery on Thursday 15 October. Foreign bribery is not an abstract phenomenon; it has huge ...12 hours ago - A sustainable Australian video game industry? Production rebates are a small, important stepSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Keogh, ARC DECRA Fellow, Queensland University of Technology In a first for Australia, the South Australian government has announced a new rebate for video game development. Companies will be able to recoup 10% of production costs on projects spending at least ...12 hours ago
- ACT announces infrastructure policyACT says it would allow central and regional governments to establish 30 year infrastructure partnerships in order to streamline projects if elected. ...12 hours ago
- Two charged over NZ First Foundation donations
An investigation into donations made to a foundation for the benefit of New Zealand First has ended with criminal charges against two people - but Winston Peters is trying to claim vindication while promising vengeance against investigators Two people have been charged with "obtaining by deception" over donations made to the mysterious ...13 hours ago - What’s Coming Up For It’s In The Ballot – Palmerston NorthPalmerston north - It's in the Ballot is happening this Thursday, 1st October at the Square Edge Art Studio, with members of the public are welcome to attend as Audience members, doors open from 530pm, with the show going live on Facebook, Youtube and ...13 hours ago
- Two people charged with ‘obtaining by deception’ in NZ First foundation investigationThe Serious Fraud Office has filed a charge of 'obtaining by deception' against two people following its investigation into the New Zealand First Foundation. ...13 hours ago
- SFO Files Charges In Relation To NZ First Foundation DonationsThe SFO has filed a charge of ‘Obtaining by Deception’ against two defendants in the New Zealand First Foundation electoral funding case. The charges were filed on 23 September. The defendants have interim name suppression and so cannot be named ...13 hours ago
- Winston Peters holds ‘important’ media conference as SFO releases NZ First Foundation in...New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is holding what he calls an 'important' media conference at 5pm - the same time as Serious Fraud Office (SFO) plans to release a statement on its investigation into the New Zealand First Foundation. ...13 hours ago
- SFO lays charges over NZ First Foundation inquiry – all you need to knowTwo individuals have been charged by the Serious Fraud Office, but neither is an MP. What’s the skinny? The Serious Fraud Office announced in a 5pm statement that two people have been charged with “obtaining by deception” following its inquiry into the New Zealand First Foundation and donations and loans provided ...13 hours ago
- Cautious Optimism Toward Labour’s Pledge To Increase Cochlear Implant FundingToday’s announcement by the Labour Party that, if elected next month, it would increase cochlear implant funding has been met with cautious optimism by New Zealand’s two providers of cochlear implant services. Southern Cochlear Implant Programme (SCIP) ...14 hours ago
- Soy, oat, almond, rice, coconut, dairy: which ‘milk’ is best for our health?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leah Dowling, Lecturer in Dietetics, Swinburne University of Technology A trip to the supermarket presents shoppers with an overwhelming number of milk choices. And far from just being the domain of the modern hipster, plant-based milk alternatives are going mainstream. These alternatives ...14 hours ago
- Advance NZ party takes exclusion from debate to courtThe Advance NZ party is taking legal action against MediaWorks after it was not invited to take part in the network's minor party leaders debate. ...14 hours ago
- 12 Calls To Make Transport Better, Safer And CleanerThe AA has published its Election Calls, highlighting 12 actions it wants the next Government to take to make transport better, safer and cleaner. The calls are realistic and achievable, says AA Motoring Affairs ...14 hours ago
- E Tū Welcomes Commitment To ‘Just Transition’ For Tiwai WorkersE tū says Labour’s just transition approach will give workers and communities in Southland confidence to plan for a future with good jobs to replace those at the Tiwai Point smelter. On Monday, the Labour Party announced its commitment to keeping ...14 hours ago
- Socialist Equality Group Election Meeting Saturday October 3rd...15 hours ago
- NZEI Te Riu Roa Welcomes Labour Promise To Provide Mental Health Support To StudentsNZEI Te Riu Roa says Labour's promise to provide mental health support in primary and intermediate schools would deliver a much-needed resource for both children and teachers, especially given the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. If re-elected, Labour's ...15 hours ago
- Old stories exhumed: Ted Dawe on schools and bullies, and truthIn Ted Dawe’s new novel Answering to the Caul, traumatised young men obliterate the schools that made ‘ordinary kids into evil bastards’. And as Dawe told the Herald last week, his sensational 2012 novel Into the River had its roots in the sex abuse scandal that’s just blown open at ...15 hours ago
- Record corporate fines don’t deter: here’s a ‘frank’ fix to make penalties biteSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael William Blissenden, Professor of Law, University of New England All things considered, Westpac’s record A$1.3 billion fine for breaching anti-money-laundering laws could have been worse. Each of the alleged 23 million breaches of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Act between 2010 ...15 hours ago
- Pacific television training initiative boosts region’s broadcastersPacific Media Watch Newsdesk Television New Zealand and Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited (PCBL) have launched a new training programme to help broadcasters across the region deliver a premium news product to their audiences. Designed and led by 1 NEWS’ Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver and produced by Lee Taylor, the 10-week ...15 hours ago
- Greens ‘right On Track’ With Bold Transport PlanKāpiti Coast commuter rail campaigner Gwynn Compton has endorsed the Green Party’s new Future of Transport plan which includes new hybrid trains, electrification and double tracking from Waikanae to Ōtaki, and eventually rapid intercity passenger ...15 hours ago
- Creativity blossoms in the shadow of the virus (with seed money from taxpayers who may not be aware...
We have acknowledged on previous occasions that the Point of Order Trough Monitor was not calibrated to pick up every example of dubiously spent public money. But when our monitor misses examples of eyebrow-raising grants, investments, loans and what-have-you, other monitors and watchdogs are on the job. The Taxpayers’ Union ...16 hours ago - Vaping Ban In Hamilton Makes Absolutely No Sense – AVCAAotearoa Vapers Community Advocacy (AVCA) is deeply disappointed that Hamilton City councillors unanimously resolved this morning to ‘include vaping alongside smoking as a prohibited activity in Smokefree areas in reference to the Smokefree Outdoor ...16 hours ago
- Greens plan to connect provinces, major cities via rapid passenger railA multi-billion dollar public transport plan is how the Green Party aims to reduce emissions and congestion if elected. ...17 hours ago
- Schools Welcome Support For Mental Health IssuesWith mental health issues on the rise, the President of the New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF), Perry Rush, has given full support to today’s announcement to roll out the successful Canterbury based Mana Ake programme across all primary and ...17 hours ago
- Greenpeace Welcomes Greens’ Transport Policy, Calls For Climate To Be Bottom LineTuesday, 29 September: Greenpeace has welcomed the Green Party’s transport policy announced today, but is seeking assurances that the Greens will make clean transport a bottom line in any potential coalition agreement. The Greens are promising to invest ...17 hours ago
- Greens pledge future ban on new petrol cars
The Green Party wants to ban the import of new fossil fuel cars, vans and utes by as early as 2030, while pouring billions into intercity rail and urban cycle "highways", Marc Daalder reports The Green Party has unveiled an ambitious policy package promising to tackle the country's fastest growing ...17 hours ago - Billion-dollar Health Spend Risks Disappearing In The Black HoleThe New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union is warning that Labour’s $1 billion health policy could turn into unproductive black hole spending unless efficiencies are found. Taxpayers’ Union spokesman Louis Houlbrooke says, “In 2019’s Wellbeing Budget, ...18 hours ago
- Do You Value Welfare Above Warfare?The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated lives and livelihoods around the world, highlighted and exacerbated systemic social, economic and political inequities, and exposed the flaws in government spending and other priorities. The critical need for cooperation ...18 hours ago
- 100 Year Forecast: Where will New Zealand get wetter and drier?Watch all five episodes of 100 Year Forecast on our special interactive website HERE.The future of rainfall in Aotearoa is complicated. As the country warms up, some places will get drier, while others will become far wetter. These changes will not be spread evenly through the year. Some places will ...18 hours ago
- Ouch. This guy just got Vodaf-ownedA tragedy in four parts.INT. DIMLY LIT BASEMENT – MORNINGDanny awakens and kicks off his Star Wars duvet. He picks up his phone to check if anyone responded to his incendiary revelation about Jacinda Arden’s Covid-19 mind control experiment on Reddit last night. He stares at his phone in mute ...19 hours ago
- BSA Upholds Complaint From Ōwairaka Activist That RNZ Item Misrepresented Her ViewsThe Broadcasting Standards Authority ( BSA ) has upheld a complaint from environmental activist Lisa Prager that an RNZ Checkpoint item misrepresented her position and was unfair to her. The Checkpoint item summarised the complainant’s submission ...19 hours ago
- Labour wants mental health rollout across schools
Labour has revealed its health policy for the election, with mental health services for children and $200 million to cut surgery waitlists among the key planks The Labour Party has pledged to roll out mental health services to every primary and intermediate school child within five years, saying the initiative ...20 hours ago - Māori Party Announces Its 25 Year Generational Mana Motuhake Programme At WaitangiMāori Party Co-Leader said today’s Te Tiriti Policy release is a 25-year strategy that would bring about major change for Māori. “Our policies are designed by Māori for Māori to Māori,” Tamihere said. “They are not a 3 year lolly scramble. ...20 hours ago
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His blood turned 25.
Day off here; have rather enjoyed watching this one on Thorium Molten Salt reactors. Fast paced and interesting. I’m not a nuclear engineers elbow, but it looks mostly plausible. Ignore the misleading title; I think it was meant to be ironic 🙂
We actually have some serious thorium deposits down in the South Island.
Another 5% at least for National and unless gifted a seat NZ First is dead.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/109486713/new-zealand-votes-for-un-migration-compact-after-legal-advice
The Col better hope their plan of getting the dope heads to the voting booth in 2020 pays off.
Well there is the usual pig-ignorant scare-mongering that comes out the the USA whenever anything to do with the UN arises. Much the same as climate change denial; it makes effective responses to global issues really hard to get traction on.
It’s the antithesis of what NZ First represents.
Winston Peters is now despised by everyone, have a read of his Facebook page, NZ First will be lucky to break 1%.
[citation needed]
And that means you going through the actual wording of the pact and showing how it contradicts anything that NZ1st stand for.
NZ First, you fucking dimwit, it’s their name.
Handing over power to the UN ???, WTF ??? how do think that would work at all with NZ First voters??
Ah, so you can’t back up what you said.
Got it.
Basically, you’re a typical ignorant right-wing schmuck.
Nowhere in the pact does it say that power would be handed over to the UN.
In fact, it says the exact opposite.
You’re either Simon Bridges or a clone as your comments here have the same smart arse dickhead ignorance, BM.
Is that the UN Migration Compact?
The one in which legal advice was sought to ensure it would not threaten our sovereignty.
The one that’s non binding?
Fucks sake Cinny, you’re not that stupid.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=XnX6uBFySEY
Thanks for the link that was pretty cool, I find it really interesting watching other countries parliaments.
However, even the UN SG has come out and said the pact is not legally binding.
Yep, the one the RWNJs are scaremongering and basically lying about.
Mexicans don’t want to come here BMmer.
Obviously not, but every no-hoper from the Islands will be turning up by the planeload keen to jump on the benefit wagon, I’m expecting a huge upswing of Pacific Islanders coming to NZ claiming “Climate change” refugee status.
And it’s not like we’ll turn them away either, not with the Pacific Island reset this current government is pushing.
and you think we should turn them away?
Yep, unless their lives are in imminent danger, Islanders will just have to learn to adapt to a changing environment.
Or move to one of the neighbouring Islands.
They don’t need to come to NZ.
and if their home islands become uninhabitable or largely so….no place in NZ?
NZ is a neighbouring island Einstein lol man you are all over the place.
Don’t be an asshat Mars.
All the low lying Islanders can move to Tonga, Samoa or Fiji, they don’t need to move to NZ.
Tonga highest point 1,033 metres
Samoa highest point 1,858 metres
Fiji highest point 1,324 metres
why not here – we are some islands in the pacific aren’t we?
Why?
We don’t need these people.
They need us.
They can all stay at BM’s place. 😆
The thing is he’d be first in line pushing the kids out the way, sniveling for help if the boot was on the other foot.
Which Islanders are you referring to?
Some of them, Rarotongans and Niueans for example, are NZ citizens so they’ll be coming whether you like it or not.
We can always change that.
what a pathetic attempt to back up your racism /argument with your meaningless abuse of geographical statistics BM.
Your argueent appears to be …. ” fuck em , they can all go live on their highest mountain / hill”.
Either your to dishonest, lazy or stupid to supply any relevant information.
Working with what you’ve posted …… your dishonesty does not pass the stupid test.
highest points … low level relevance.
They have more business here than the damned English.
Totally.
I thought NZ was one of the neighbouring islands.
By the way, it is our western capitalist lifestyle that has caused the climate change that is submerging their islands.
And 250 years ago Europeans like you colonised and stole these islands from the Pacific Islanders that had lived here for centuries.
So back up the bus, BM.
Don’t worry BMmer it’s possibly cheaper if they come here.
Oh look here’s BM coming here to do what he means to do
The Pacific Island Reset is intended to protect our interests in the region in conjunction with Australia, the only region we really have any interests in, let’s face it. And it’s designed to catch up after National’s cheapskate abrogation of our role in the region. Are you saying we should withdraw from the Pacific and leave it to China? Are you really that stupid?
Innocent man’s photo wrongly posted next to paedophile’s details by Sensible Sentencing Trust
Why is this organisation not being sued into oblivion?
Or even just shut down. Shit like this simply should not happen.
Why not being sued? They must have a stable of high horses that would be worth something.
So the prick who posted the pic can look forward to being sued?
Assuming you’re responding to me:
I’d say that there’s a very good case for defamation but it should land solidly on SST.
“I’d say that there’s a very good case for defamation”
I don’t think you get much better. The only doubt would be how many million the poor bastard will be suing them for.
I’m really angry NZ signed this – we need an influx of migrants like a hole in the head
https://i.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/109468927/heres-how-much-new-zealands-population-would-change-if-everyone-who-wanted-to-migrate-here-actually-did
We’ve had an influx of migrants for yonks A.
I’m really angry that you, like the schmuck above, has NFI WTF you’re talking about.
And I’m on record as saying the we need to have a moratorium on immigration and that we’ll be closing our borders in the 2020s.
yeah why don’t the ones who have come and sucked the life out of this country piss off and let some other buggers have a go then there’d be NO influx.
Probably cause a reflux from the displaced immigrants though. Easy to get in and hard to get out, for some people.
Plenty of little yellow slanty eyed ones over the past 10 years under National ?
fuck off you racist arsehole
It’s the white-faced poorly-toothed ones from England that are the real problem. They’ve been infesting this place for the best part of two centuries. Send them back first.
Just when you thought the world couldn’t get weirder, in a shocking twist Trump does something good/right
Trump bans “bump stocks”
(Clip on accessory thing that basically turns a semi-automatic into a fully automatic machine gun. Popular with the types whose chosen hobby is committing mass shootings)
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-12-19/donald-trump-bans-bump-stocks-used-in-las-vegas-mass-shooting/10635232
Why do you think he did that?
Hate to be a cynic but the guy desperately needs a good story right now.
He’s traumatised by the prospect of giving away $1.75 million.
The Donald J. Trump Foundation has agreed to dissolve under judicial supervision and give away its remaining funds while an investigation by the New York attorney general’s office into its operations moves ahead.
[…]
Under the dissolution agreement, after the judge approves the deal, the Trump Foundation will have 30 days during which to give away the balance of its funds, $1.75 million, to charities.
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/18/trump-foundation-agrees-to-dissolve-under-judicial-supervision-.html
So have you personally given away $1.75 million to charity. Just a comparison of commitment considering that’s just what’s left.
In one year he paid more in income tax, $38 million. About 1500 times more tax than Bernie Sanders did the same year.
He’s traumatised?
$1.75 million. Filling in his Tax returns must be a nightmare.
That was the purpose of the foundation. Charity.
It was probably not perfect, donated vs given to charity etc.
Look at the % for many charities, some are more like scams.
I wonder what the Clintons charity spends money on.
At least Trump didn’t need to sign away Uranuim to get donations.
He said after this first became a topic he had no problem getting rid of them. You could also include prison reform.
While the hypocrite Schemer is stoping his wall Trump doesn’t have to do much. Plus the Dems are just beginning to come under the spotlight with the Mueller circus. It’s like a partner lifting the bedsheets, often the one using it as a weapon is the real dodgy one when its there turn. The appalling bias of Comey is untenable.
Bullshit. Trump and the the Republicans did not say this after bump stocks became an issue in the wake of the Las Vegas massacre.
Sorry mate, but you are wrong
He has been organising a way of banning them for ages
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/20/us/politics/trump-bump-stocks.html
There will be some cynical side motive behind it somewhere, but it is good and it’s done.
Bump Stocks can apparently be easily 3D printed, or cheaply manufactured in China and so are not a big earner for gun manufacturers. Therefore the NRA seems to be going along with the ban. Some online though have commented that this might just be something they can use later when other gun controls are suggested so they can say they have already compromised and will not go further.
They fought tooth and nail to stop stuff like armor-piercing bullets being banned for sale to civilians because that is something that only gun manufacturers can produce and can charge a premium for. Even though the bullets themselves are nicknamed cop killers and for good reason. There is no valid reason for the sale of armor-piercing bullets to civilians. There are no cases of animal rights activists fitting wild animals with bulletproof vests.
What a grubby little oink this Bridges man is.
Didn’t know what his ministries were spending money on? Didn’t know they were spying on Greenpeace?
Yeah, right.
https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/political/378674/bridges-on-thompson-and-clark-spying-i-never-had-anything-to-do-with-this
I recognise a well anticipated response to an inevitable question when I see it.
This is a a refrain we will hear over and over.
‘it was before my time’, ‘i have no knowledge of this’ etc.
Difference is, when key lied, folk didn’t care, when ole one lane does it, they sound like excuses.
High St will be car free for tomorrow and Quay St will be reduced to one lane each way permanently from Boxing Day. The hegemony of the private motor vehicle in the CBD is coming to an end.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2018/12/car-free-cbd-auckland-s-high-street-to-ban-cars-on-thursday.html
The times they are a-changin’
Where is Judith Collins squawking about this anti-car treachery?
JC is a bit busy as this time of the year
We all are. Not good for pale stale males that she’s abandoned her post at this crucial juncture though.
That was a little bit racist and sexist.
Cars are made by Japanese, Korean, Indians, Chinese, Americans, and Europeans etc. So there’s no dominance. Plus they are all public companies so even if they are made in the US it’s ownership if far from just White old Males
Cars are driven and used by all races of people. A significant minority are white, and a significant minority within that group are old men.
If you want to be informed, link to George Galloway’s Twitter feed.
This will teach you a lot about Brexit.
George also keeps me informed with his show , which can be heard at 8 a.m Saturday New Zealand time (Friday 7 p.m. UK time ). The show is called the Mother of All Talkshows and it is on Talk Radio.
“Seriously, this is a must read from trade union activist
“The centrist, uber-remainers, their Tory, Lib-Dem bedfellows still don’t understand what drove people to vote leave in the first place. They have learnt nothing from the first result.”
https://t.co/7zTFlBo5GX?amp=1
Something a bit lighter to sooth the nerves after the Ardern, Peters treachery.
it’s either this or piano wire.
These vigilante arseholes should be taken to the cleaners and be permanently put out of business.
https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/378656/mcvicar-sorry-for-sensible-sentencing-trust-s-paedophile-mistake
yep shut that shit down!!!
And they can take Mark Mitchell with them. NZ is face to face with a very evil man there.
Yep agreed – he is dangerous
Absolutely agree @Muttonbird, re Mitchell. He shouldn’t be anywhere near Parliament. He’s nothing but a despicable, vile thug!
Oh.
McVicar says:
“The trust could be forced to close if the amount of compensation it had to pay was more than it could afford.”
Maybe there should be support for the chap to take the case the Human Rights Review Tribunal.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/109488195/negligent-cavalier-sensible-sentencing-trust-wrongly-labels-man-a-paedophile
Is there any truth to this rumour that Slater has had a stroke? It wouldn’t surprise me because he looked very, very unfit and has obvious issues psychologically and physiologically.
He’s not publishing anything under his name on that bizarre website of his.
There is a lot of comped comedy images of the PM though. Someone is still obsessed.
Hey Gerry, this is what action looks like. You should have tried it for the people of Christchurch.
https://i.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/109470124/thompson–clark-a-preferred-security-and-surveillance-firm-dumped-from-government-work
OMG. John Key, what have you done to this country? What a disgraceful, cancerous government you ran.
Simplicity
https://damnthematrix.wordpress.com/2018/12/14/kevin-anderson-hugh-hunt-a-rule-book-for-the-climate-casino/