Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag?

Written By: - Date published: 10:07 am, July 10th, 2020 - 128 comments
Categories: making shit up, Media, national, same old national, spin, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags: ,

Yesterday I posed a number of random impertinent questions about Michelle Boag and the handling of sensitive confidential information.  One of them was:

Who else has she forwarded these reports to?

Well this morning that question has been answered, at least in part.  Michael Woodhouse, he who poses with toilet seats, has admitted that he was one of the recipients of the information.

From Radio New Zealand:

National MP and health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse has confirmed he was also the recipient of patient details from former National Party president Michelle Boag.

In a statement, he said he received four unsolicited emails from Boag between 21 and 25 June.

“While not the same information that is the subject of the inquiry led by Michael Heron QC, [they were] similar in so far as it contained patient details,” Woodhouse said.

“Michelle told me she received this information through her role with the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust and I was led to believe it was circulating among a number of other health agencies.

“I recognised that the information in those emails was private so I did not share it with anyone else and I subsequently deleted them.”

Woodhouse said he has contacted Heron about the emails and will cooperate with the inquiry.

So four “unsolicited” emails between June 21 and June 25.

Remember on July 4 when he said:

Yet another mistake just goes to prove that this Government is not fit to manage the Covid-19 recovery, National’s Health spokesperson Michael Woodhouse says. “Reports coming in this morning of personal details being leaked which reveals the identity of New Zealand’s current active cases, is yet another serious failing from this incompetent Government.

“This is unconscionable and unacceptable that those suffering from the incredibly dangerous virus now have to suffer further with their private details being leaked.

“The Government needs to get to the bottom of this, and quickly. The Ministry of Health have been assuring people since the beginning of the epidemic in New Zealand that personal details would remain private, it’s unfathomable that they couldn’t handle a simple task like this.

Let us pick this apart.  Woodhouse knew Boag was getting confidential information and was leaking them like a sieve.  He was right that it was “unconscionable and unacceptable” that this was happening.  But he was suggesting that it was the Government’s incompetence not a senior National Party member’s malevolence.

He has offered to cooperate with the Heron inquiry.  It might be quicker for Heron if National MPs who did not receive private information from Boag identified themselves.

The question has to be asked, who else was given this information?  How likely is it that Boag only sent it to two MPs?

The inquiry is going to be really interesting.  Popcorn sellers in the country should get ready for a rush on their product.

Update:  Michelle Boag has announced she has resigned from the National Party.

And Todd Muller said yesterday that that he had not asked his MPs whether they had received confidential information as Walker had and that “[t]he issue is sorted from my perspective”.  But a party spokeswoman told the Herald that Muller knew about Boag’s emails to Woodhouse on Tuesday.

This is a nightmare for National. It is going to suck out every bit of momentum from their campaign that they may have been generating.

128 comments on “Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag? ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Ed 1
    10 July 2020 at 10:15 am

    Michael Woodhouse being interviewed by Kathryn Ryan at 10.30 a.m. on RNZ

    His choice of language will be very interesting.

    Will he use the word subsequently?

  2. Morrissey 2
    10 July 2020 at 10:19 am

    So that "impeccable source" that Woodhouse cited was…. Michelle Boag.

    https://i1.wp.com/strangeago.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/garrote02.jpg?w=393&ssl=1

  3. Robert Guyton 3
    10 July 2020 at 10:20 am

    Grubby, isn't it.

    • Ed 3.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:25 am

      Grubby doesn't begin to describe these actions.

      This is how the National Party respond to a global pandemic.

      What is the definition of sedition?

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

      • aj 3.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 10:28 am

        Woodhouse is an odiuos man, so this in particular doesn't surprise me. Prior to this, Boag, Walker, 'flabbergasted'

        Love that word.

        • gsays 3.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 1:25 pm

          Several times now, Woodhouse has demonstrated he is unfit to hold office.

          Along with paying various lawyers fees, I begrudge my taxes going towards this mans salary.

          I almost feel for Muller, his profound lack of leadership is debilitating.

          A local lad William Wood has been nominated for the Palmerston North electorate. At this rate he will probably find himself in the top few if these MPs keep dropping like flies.

    • Chris 3.2
      10 July 2020 at 1:36 pm

      Will be interesting to see how Nikki Kaye feels about all of this, if indeed she's one of the only wholesome ones left, and whether she's comfortable contining to associate with such low-life.

      • Rae 3.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 3:43 pm

        Not so sure any longer, up till all this came to light, Boag was her campaign manager, which kind of throws her into a bit of a different light

  4. Patricia Bremner 4
    10 July 2020 at 10:26 am

    For the first time, people are seeing the rotten attitudes and flouting of rules and lack of decency by some? many? National members and supporters.

    This has disgusted many in the South, and they are die hard blue, so throughout the land people are thinking that this is awful.

    How long before Tova and friends say "they all do it." I am getting in early to say… No Tova and c/o, they don't!!

    Perhaps they were calling the PM “St Jacinda “because they were ‘sinners” ???? More to come.

    Now Mr. Brownlee, have you had emails from M.Boag????

    Looks like National have thrown Walker and Boag under the bus metaphorically, so, when is the next bus????

    • Gabby 4.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:50 am

      I suspect that some of them do genuinely despise nice people.

    • pete 4.2
      10 July 2020 at 11:00 am

      People so disgusted in the south that Adams and Brownlee, whatever swede they put up in Clutha and others will fly in with very healthy majorities.

      • Michael 4.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 2:34 pm

        Not so sure. The Nats will hold Clutha and Invercargill. They reckon they might win what used to be Dunedin South from Labour's carpet-bagging candidate from Waiheke Island.

    • Grant Insley 4.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:01 am

      Anyone care to take odds on the 'Intelligence' Unit being in charge of sanitising all National computer hard drives?

    • Draco T Bastard 4.4
      10 July 2020 at 1:07 pm

      For the first time, people are seeing the rotten attitudes and flouting of rules and lack of decency by some? many? National members and supporters.

      Considering the total lack of outrage coming from others in National people should be realising that this sort of immoral behaviour is normal for them.

      Looks like National have thrown Walker and Boag under the bus metaphorically, so, when is the next bus????

      That'd be about right. The only problem that the rest of National see is that they got caught – not that they were being completely immoral.

    • Sacha 4.5
      10 July 2020 at 1:25 pm

      For the first time?

      Hardly

  5. ianmac 5
    10 July 2020 at 10:27 am

    "While not the same information that is the subject of the inquiry led by Michael Heron QC, [they were] similar in so far as it contained patient details,” Woodhouse said.

    Hello. How did he know the information was not the same as the leaked info – unless he has seen the leaked info to be able to compare? Deleted?

    • Sacha 5.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:27 pm

      And how could Woodlouse know none of the four emails from Boag contained the same information as Walker received if he only read the first one?

  6. Anne 6
    10 July 2020 at 10:34 am

    Woodhouse knew Boag was getting confidential information and was leaking them like a sieve. He was right that it was “unconscionable and unacceptable” that this was happening. But he was suggesting that it was the Government’s incompetence not a senior National Party member’s malevolence.

    This is a fundamental National Party mantra: if you can't beat them by fair means then use foul. It is in their DNA.

    As my English born father taught me four plus decades ago… never trust a Tory, they are nasty my nature.

    Anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of the Michelle Boags of this world will know the extent of the deceit, treachery and vitriol these types will descend to, in order to get their way.

    Karma really must exist after all.

  7. Ed 7
    10 July 2020 at 10:38 am

    Woodhouse

    Deleted the emails on Monday or Tuesday.
    The day after the inquiry was announced.

    • I Feel Love 7.1
      10 July 2020 at 2:42 pm

      Yes I loved that, his "I am above reproach, I deleted the emails" & when? "as soon as I heard there was an inquiry". Also this "Boag said she would send me an email, and asked for it to be a non parliamentary address", dodgy AF.

  8. sam green 8
    10 July 2020 at 10:39 am

    Come on Nicki Kaye – 'fess up – or tell us you didn't know. Woodhouse needs to go by the way.

  9. aj 9
    10 July 2020 at 10:41 am

    Lying, and squirming like a fish

  10. pete 10
    10 July 2020 at 10:42 am

    Put your hand up if you believe Woodhouse. Just a minute, I'll do a count….

  11. Bearded Git 11
    10 July 2020 at 10:44 am

    In your excitement you are getting her name wrong….as pointed out by others on TS it is Covid 1-18 Boag.

    • Chris 11.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:40 pm

      Right-wingers are either incredibly thick, nasty or both. I'd for a long time thought it'd be impossible to sum a class of person up so simply, but this one works.

  12. Ed 12
    10 July 2020 at 10:45 am

    Woodhouse told Muller on Tuesday evening.

    If the intention of that interview was to shut down the conversation and staunch the questions, it failed….

    • Robert Guyton 12.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:52 am

      Tuesday evening? Was Muller's interview on Wednesday the one where he said he knew of no other National Party MPs in receipt of the information?

      • ianmac 12.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 10:56 am

        Robert. Muller will argue that he meant the information rather than similar ​​​​​​​information. Wriggle room?

        • Leighton 12.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 11:10 am

          Wriggle room indeed. If I know the average New Zealand swing voter (and I think I do), the one thing they love to hear from the candidate for new prime minister is weaselly semantics designed to obscure the truth from them.

          Also based on Muller's media performances to date, he would stammer and flounder like a dying fish if properly questioned on such a weak position.

        • Robert Guyton 12.1.1.2
          10 July 2020 at 11:38 am

          And his tribe will swallow that without gagging, while non-tribal members will be spewing! Same as it ever was.

        • nzlemming 12.1.1.3
          10 July 2020 at 8:36 pm

          Though he's also said that he didn't ask his MPs whether they had received the info.

          • George 12.1.1.3.1
            10 July 2020 at 10:53 pm

            The other question is – did National ask Boag for the information in the emails? Which could make it a very very messy situation…

  13. Nick 13
    10 July 2020 at 10:49 am

    Listened to Michael Woodhouse on RNZ pretend he's Sgt Shultz….."I know nothink"

    • Morrissey 13.1
      10 July 2020 at 10:53 am

      One really disgusting thing to remember about Woodhouse, that cynical and shameless leaker of confidential information, is that he was a tireless and brutal traducer of Julian Assange, who exposed the crimes of people like Woodhouse.

      • Sacha 13.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 11:05 am

        A more relevant thing is that he has been a hospital CEO, so knows the NZ health information privacy rules well. Just happy to ignore em.

        • Morrissey 13.1.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 11:08 am

          Fair comment. Wonder if he'll be hounded and ridiculed by the folks on the Panel for it.

        • Gabby 13.1.1.2
          10 July 2020 at 11:23 am

          Makes you wonder how he conducted himself in that position.

        • left_forward 13.1.1.3
          10 July 2020 at 11:32 am

          Yes, you are right, this is pertinent. From his experience, he would know that the names that he received from Boag in June should not be shared by anyone, and yet he didn't warn his source or his colleagues against using them?

      • gsays 13.1.2
        10 July 2020 at 1:30 pm

        Thanks, Mozza.

        Traducer is a new word for my vocabulary. Kind of onomatapeic too.

  14. observer 14
    10 July 2020 at 10:49 am

    One of many "matters arising" from that Woodhouse interview with Ryan: apparently e-mails in Dunedin can only be accessed in Dunedin.

    • aj 14.1
      10 July 2020 at 11:00 am

      apparently e-mails in Dunedin can only be accessed in Dunedin.

      Well thats more BS. I could say that too, but I know I can get all my emails, from any account, on my phone anywhere in the world

    • Robert Guyton 14.2
      10 July 2020 at 11:40 am

      That was breathtaking bullsh*ttery!

    • left_forward 14.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:43 am

      Haha – I thought that was a curious thing to say too.

  15. ianmac 15
    10 July 2020 at 10:51 am

    Kathryn did a good job to to get a few straight answers from Woodhouse. He seems to have organised his story to have verifiable answers. Cute. He has had nearly a week to line up his ducks but perception will damage his future credibility. With some flow on doubt about Muller's credibility/timeline as well.

  16. Leighton 16
    10 July 2020 at 10:54 am

    Hold on…….the National campaign had been generating momentum before this? Where? With who? The people deserve to know!

  17. Ed 17
    10 July 2020 at 10:58 am

    Sharon Murdoch sums up the situation with this great cartoon.

    Todd is just beginning to realise what cousin Michael has left stuck on the seat….

    https://twitter.com/domesticanimal/status/1281309398200012800/photo/1

    • Just Is 17.1
      10 July 2020 at 12:50 pm

      Yep, pretty much graphically describes Mullers current conundrum.

      Mullers been using the old distraction technique

      Look over there.

      Can anyone see National recovering before the election?

      Given the reality that " a day is a long time in politics"

  19. observer 19
    10 July 2020 at 11:10 am

    Amelia Wade has done a good job sorting out the Muller timeline here – and the details are crucial:

    Muller was asked about "anyone else?", when he knew about Woodhouse. Muller lied.

    Only a (barely credible) memory lapse can get Todd off the hook.

    Relevant quotes:

    National health spokesman Michael Woodhouse told leader Todd Muller on Tuesday evening that he was also sent Covid patient data by Michelle Boag. …
    But the next day, Muller was specifically asked by reporters “have you checked with Woodhouse, specifically, whether he received that same information from Boag”.
    “No,” replied Muller … At no point in yesterday’s media stand-up did Muller mention that he knew Boag had sent Covid patient information to Woodhouse. …

    Asked again if he had spoken to Woodhouse and if Boag was a Woodhouse source, Muller said: “No, I don’t really understand where you’re going with this.”

  20. swordfish 20
    10 July 2020 at 11:54 am

    Muller's in Big Troub.

    I predicted a few months ago (albeit tongue-in-cheek) that Judith would become leader around July … I'm starting to think I was right all along.

    My heart says Smiddy but my head says Judith.
    https://twitter.com/swordfish7774/status/1281377883873669121

  21. RedBaronCV 21
    10 July 2020 at 11:57 am

    Two things still puzzle me.

    Michelle Boag has been at this stuff forever- about 30 years since the Faye Richwhite stuff. Why has she rolled over and admitted everything this time? If it was the USA you'd suspect she had done a plea bargain to rollover on others to save herself but that's not really the scene here.

    Some things that go on in government do need exposure. But who is doing the leaking of some highly confidential data that we all know exists but really has absolutely no actual political value like the names of the covid patients.

    • Ed 21.1
      10 July 2020 at 11:58 am

      I think National has a prized asset in the Department of Health they do not want to lose.

      • RedBaronCV 21.1.1
        10 July 2020 at 12:12 pm

        Maybe yes. I imagine that the place is being done over as we speak.The DG is on holiday this week isn't he?

    • lprent 21.2
      10 July 2020 at 12:56 pm

      Looks like a pretty heavy enquiry this time, and this isn’t a civil matter. So far this is looking like an unauthorised leak. Not even a mistake. If the enquiry comes up with a report of no other organisations being sent this confidential information by some systematically stupid mistake (and even then) there are likely to be charges preferred against the leaker.

      Basically leaks of confidential information from the civil servants are always treated seriously. No difference between this and the dozen(s) of other enquiries into civil service breaches of confidential or secret information.

    • maggieinnz 21.3
      10 July 2020 at 6:47 pm

      I don't know how relevant it is but she knew she was leaving her charity role well before she quit and I can't imagine she didn't have something in the pipeline. I think she poached the info knowing she was out the door anyway.

      It will be interesting to see where she lands after all this.

  22. Ed 22
    10 July 2020 at 11:57 am

    Someone in the media should be asking Nikki Kaye some straight questions.

  23. observer 23
    10 July 2020 at 11:58 am

    Here's my free media advice for Todd Muller –

    You don't have to make a statement until you've worked out what it is you are saying. Waiting another hour before you face the cameras won't kill you. But getting caught out will.

    This is Muller's response, and it's hopeless:

    https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/muller-could-have-been-clearer-info-woodhouse-received-boag

  24. UncookedSelachimorpha 24
    10 July 2020 at 12:33 pm

    For Michael Woodhouse, as health spokesman, former CEO of a hospital and person with a Masters of Health Administration, to merely delete emails that willfully breach patient privacy is disgracefully inadequate.

    He knew the leak he received was outrageously unethical and went against all standards of medical practice. It was incumbent on him to take decisive action to expose and shut down this appalling behaviour. Reporting the breach to the proper authorities (e.g. MOH, privacy commissioner) would be the minimum decent action he could take.

  25. Anne 25
    10 July 2020 at 12:51 pm

    Great ‘bill board’ laugh

    https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2020/07/10/winners-losers-latest-shocking-boag-revelations-are-the-end-of-the-national-death-star/

    Post got a lot of typos. A rushed job. Hard for commentators to keep up these days.

  26. Peter 26
    10 July 2020 at 12:53 pm

    Unfortunately the volume on the video isn't all that clear. Muller said of himself that he was 'very clear!' A number of times.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    I could not see Matthew Hooton in the clip.

  27. ianmac 27
    10 July 2020 at 1:24 pm

    Dirty Tricks? Remember that the case against the donors and JamieLee start this week. Will there be a suspicion that the National Party will remain unscathed or will the evidence that JL has create a problem for Nat Party?

    • Sacha 27.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:34 pm

      Ah, that might be connected with their most lucrative Chinese MP choosing now to leave..

    • gsays 27.2
      10 July 2020 at 1:42 pm

      I can see some lawyer arguing that this case being heard is unfair for the Nats, anyone judging would be prejudiced by the filthy, dodgy goings-on that have been revealed.

    • George 27.3
      10 July 2020 at 11:06 pm

      A week is a long time in politics… And next week could feel like a year for National on top of this …if this is still dragging on…

  28. Robert Guyton 28
    10 July 2020 at 1:32 pm

    "Muller said on Tuesday evening he was given a "heads up" from Michael Woodhouse that he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker.

    "The next day I had a chat with Michael and we agreed it would be appropriate for him to circle back to Michael Heron and make him aware of that, in case it would be useful for his inquiry.""

    And yet…,Woodhouse deleted those emails making them unavailable to Heron. Very, very odd.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    • Peter 28.1
      10 July 2020 at 2:12 pm

      Odd that he deleted those emails making them unavailable to Heron? No, it's Michael Woodhouse and National, it's business as usual.

    • mauī 28.2
      10 July 2020 at 2:17 pm

      Some people just have such rotten luck.. Imagine circling back to Heron with important information which you had just deleted some hours or a day prior. He must have felt awful about it.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 28.3
      10 July 2020 at 4:27 pm

      I wonder if Covid 1-18 Boag also had the foresight to delete them?

    • UncookedSelachimorpha 28.4
      11 July 2020 at 1:17 pm

      he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker

      No, No, No, No, No. The font was different. Totally different. Doesn't count at all.

  29. ianmac 29
    10 July 2020 at 1:34 pm

    The Muller reply/justification today at 12:30:

    Muller said on Tuesday evening he was given a "heads up" from Michael Woodhouse that he had been given information that "sounded similar" to that given to Walker.

    "The next day I had a chat with Michael and we agreed it would be appropriate for him to circle back to Michael Heron and make him aware of that, in case it would be useful for his inquiry."

    Muller said Walker and Woodhouse were "very different issues".

    "Walker released private, personal and sensitive information to the public, which has cost him his political career. Michael Woodhouse saw this information, and didn't act on it."

    He'd now made it "very clear" to his caucus, if they were sent any sensitive information they needed to bring it to his attention as leader.

    But he said there was an "absolute distinction" between receiving information, and releasing it publicly.

    There we are then. Hook removed.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12347102

    • sam green 29.1
      10 July 2020 at 1:51 pm

      He received the emails in June – given we are a team of 5 million fighting Covid – wouldn't you think that any 'leak' be reported and dealt to? If not – he is failing as a member of that team and failing the national Covid response – essentially failing his country. Well even essentially working against it – so essentially being treasonous. Maybe even criminal. i dunno …

  30. ianmac 30
    10 July 2020 at 2:23 pm

    Should we go easy on the Shadow minister of Health Woodhouse?

    No! Remember the vitriol and sneering and undermining that Woodhouse has directed at the past Minister of Health, David Clark? What goes around….

    • Peter 30.1
      10 July 2020 at 3:53 pm

      Woodhouse: “I have had no knowledge of anything that Michelle Boag has done this week."

      What she's done this week has been right across in the media for a couple of days. did

      "I haven’t spoken to Michelle this week:” A reasonable translation?: "We communicated by email, so I haven't talked to her."

    • Anne 30.2
      10 July 2020 at 5:33 pm

      Remember the vitriol and sneering and undermining that Woodhouse has directed at the past Minister of Health, David Clark?

      They clearly had someone in the street who was spying on Clark and someone stalked him to a couple of outdoor venues when he was trying to get fresh air and exercise. Given the circumstances the man was probably in desperate need of it to clear his head.

      Yet the bastards – ably abetted by a vindictive media – crucified him for doing the same as what the team of 5 million were doing… getting fresh air and exercise.

      It subsequently transpired that Dr. Ashley Bloomfield was going out around 6 am for his daily bout of fresh air and exercise. Nobody complained about that and nor should they. Like Clark he was trying to stay healthy and combat the stress that went with his position.

      • Liliane 30.2.1
        10 July 2020 at 8:06 pm

        Exactly Anne! I live 5 mins away from Dr Clark, and went for walks every day during Level 4, as did most of my suburb (we did a lot of dodging).

        The walking,cycling track that Dr Clark used for exercise between zoom meetings is literally just a few minutes drive from his house (unlike Doctor's Point, which was a foolish mistake on his part I admit).

        I thought the whole mountain biking thing was a media beat up at the time, and I haven't changed my mind on that.

        However, that's all moot now and Dr Clark will have time to reflect on how he could have handled his portfolio better over time. According to the Otago Daily Times he offered to take the Health portfolio because nobody else would step up. He must be wondering why he bothered.

        • Anne 30.2.1.1
          10 July 2020 at 8:49 pm

          Thanks for that Liliane. I don't know David Clark, but I do know his brother. A nicer person you could not meet, and I'm sure David is probably the same.

          I wonder sometimes how those two-faced, up-themselves tabloid media types can sleep at night. They have no feelings of shame or guilt for the way they destroy reputations just because they can. Loathsome specimens of humanity.

  31. observer 31
    10 July 2020 at 2:29 pm

    Previously: "no other MPs involved, except Walker"

    Now: "no other MPs, except Walker and Woodhouse"

    https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/420925/no-other-national-mps-received-leaked-details-todd-muller

    Next?

    • ianmac 31.1
      10 July 2020 at 4:06 pm

      On the News RNZ just now (3pm) when asked if there was anyone else receiving info, Muller said that he has told his caucus firmly that if they had received any info they must tell him.

      So didn't answer the question really.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 31.2
      10 July 2020 at 4:30 pm

      Yes, it beggars belief that Boag, on Nikki Kaye's campaign committee, didn't communicate with her – and pass on private information.

  32. McFlock 32
    10 July 2020 at 4:13 pm

    I mean, one almost has to assume that this clusterfuck can't be an accident.

    But if it's an intentional plot to fuck up the nats, then how could they not be this competent ever before in their careers? Is sabotaging their own party the only time in their lives they truly excel? Or is this all an accident and they've fallen through the floor into a new level of incompetence?

    All the while consistently finding the wrong thing to do with patient data?

    • greywarshark 32.1
      10 July 2020 at 4:50 pm

      Or it's just a subterfuge. They are so cunning, that they have a cunning plan to confuse us with something that Baldrick dreamed up. Watch out for a turnip soon, we must keep alert.

  33. rod 33
    10 July 2020 at 4:23 pm

    Bridges must be loving this..wink

  34. tc 34
    10 July 2020 at 5:01 pm

    Let them all burn on the bonfire of ideological vanity and abhorrent tactics.

    Brand recognition. National at its finest folks.

  35. Fireblade 35
    10 July 2020 at 5:13 pm

    Health Minister Chris Hipkins criticises National for sitting on sensitive COVID-19 patient information.

    "Hipkins said it is not legitimate to release that information or to sit on that information and not inform the Government."

    "It is clear that over the course of the last week the National Party have had a lot of information that they have chosen not to share that could have cleared things up much more quickly, Hipkins said."

    "Over the weekend both Mr Muller and Michael Woodhouse made some very strong comments about the release of this information and how unacceptable it was when it is clear they knew how it came to be released and chose not to share that information."

    https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2020/07/health-minister-chris-hipkins-criticises-national-for-sitting-on-sensitive-covid-19-patient-information.html

  36. NZJester 36
    10 July 2020 at 7:47 pm

    Did any National MP not receive confidential information from Michelle Boag?

    Maybe the reason Todd Muller is so mad at them all is because he was left out?

  37. ScottGN 37
    10 July 2020 at 8:06 pm

    Naturally the Herald online is trying its best to avoid any of the unpleasantness.

    • Muttonbird 37.1
      10 July 2020 at 8:14 pm

      Listened a significant amount of Heather duplicity-Allen's broadcast yesterday and today and it was a real experience listening to how much she didn't talk about this incredible scandal by the Nats.

      She even defended Woodhouse! And claimed she knows where the homeless man fabrication came from.

      Hey Heather, why don’t you do your adopted country a favour and release this info because it’s ripping our democracy apart.

  38. anker 38
    10 July 2020 at 8:54 pm

    God it Friday night and I have had a full on week.

    Re the Nats,………ha ha ha ha ha ha. Its about time they were exposed.

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    TL;DR: The podcast above features co-hosts and , along with regular guests Robert Patman on Gaza and AUKUS II, and on climate change.The six things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 hour 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 hours 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 hours 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
    3 hours 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
    4 hours 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
    5 hours 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
    7 hours 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
    8 hours 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
    15 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    17 hours 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
    17 hours 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
    17 hours 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
    18 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    19 hours 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
    20 hours 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
    23 hours 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
    23 hours 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
    23 hours 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
    1 day ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Texas Lessons
    This is a guest post by Oscar Simms who is a housing activist, volunteer for the Coalition for More Homes, and was the Labour Party candidate for Auckland Central at the last election. ...
    Greater AucklandBy Guest Post
    2 days ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links at 6:06 am
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours as of 6:06 am on Wednesday, April 17 are:Must read: Secrecy shrouds which projects might be fast-tracked RNZ Farah HancockScoop: Revealed: Luxon has seven staffers working on social media content - partly paid for by taxpayer Newshub ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • Fighting poverty on the holiday highway
    Turning what Labour called the “holiday highway” into a four-lane expressway from Auckland to Whangarei could bring at least an economic benefit of nearly two billion a year for Northland each year. And it could help bring an end to poverty in one of New Zealand’s most deprived regions. The ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago

  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks at 6:26 pm
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: launching his substack with a bunch of his previous documentaries, including this 1992 interview with Dame Whina Cooper. and here crew give climate activists plenty to do, including this call to submit against the Fast Track Approvals bill. writes brilliantly here on his substack ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • At a glance – Is the science settled?
    On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • Apposite Quotations.
    How Long Is Long Enough? Gaza under Israeli bombardment, July 2014. This posting is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...
    Bowalley Road
    3 days ago

  • What’s a life worth now?
    You're in the mall when you hear it: some kind of popping sound in the distance, kids with fireworks, maybe. But then a moment of eerie stillness is followed by more of the fireworks sound and there’s also screaming and shrieking and now here come people running for their lives.Does ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Howling at the Moon
    Karl du Fresne writes –  There’s a crisis in the news media and the media are blaming it on everyone except themselves. Culpability is being deflected elsewhere – mainly to the hapless Minister of Communications, Melissa Lee, and the big social media platforms that are accused of hoovering ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Newshub is Dead.
    I don’t normally send out two newsletters in a day but I figured I’d say something about… the news. If two newsletters is a bit much then maybe just skip one, I don’t want to overload people. Alternatively if you’d be interested in sometimes receiving multiple, smaller updates from me, ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago

  • Seymour is chuffed about cutting early-learning red tape – but we hear, too, that Jones has loose...
    Buzz from the Beehive David Seymour and Winston Peters today signalled that at least two ministers of the Crown might be in Wellington today. Seymour (as Associate Minister of Education) announced the removal of more red tape, this time to make it easier for new early learning services to be ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. Our political system is suffering from the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago

  • Was Hawkesby entirely wrong?
    David Farrar  writes –  The Broadcasting Standards Authority ruled: Comments by radio host Kate Hawkesby suggesting Māori and Pacific patients were being prioritised for surgery due to their ethnicity were misleading and discriminatory, the Broadcasting Standards Authority has found. It is a fact such patients are prioritised. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • PRC shadow looms as the Solomons head for election
    PRC and its proxies in Solomons have been preparing for these elections for a long time. A lot of money, effort and intelligence have gone into ensuring an outcome that won’t compromise Beijing’s plans. Cleo Paskall writes – On April 17th the Solomon Islands, a country of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Climate Change: Criminal ecocide
    We are in the middle of a climate crisis. Last year was (again) the hottest year on record. NOAA has just announced another global coral bleaching event. Floods are threatening UK food security. So naturally, Shane Jones wants to make it easier to mine coal: Resources Minister Shane Jones ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • Is saving one minute of a politician's time worth nearly $1 billion?
    Is speeding up the trip to and from Wellington airport by 12 minutes worth spending up more than $10 billion? Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me in the last day to 8:26 am today are:The Lead: Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • Long Tunnel or Long Con?
    Yesterday it was revealed that Transport Minister had asked Waka Kotahi to look at the options for a long tunnel through Wellington. 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 ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    3 days ago

  • Smoke And Mirrors.
    You're a fraud, and you know itBut it's too good to throw it all awayAnyone would do the sameYou've got 'em goingAnd you're careful not to show itSometimes you even fool yourself a bitIt's like magicBut it's always been a smoke and mirrors gameAnyone would do the sameForty six billion ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago

  • What is Mexico doing about climate change?
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections The June general election in Mexico could mark a turning point in ensuring that the country’s climate policies better reflect the desire of its citizens to address the climate crisis, with both leading presidential candidates expressing support for renewable energy. Mexico is the ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • State of humanity, 2024
    2024, 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?When I say 2024 I really mean the state of humanity in 2024.Saturday night, we watched Civil War because that is one terrifying cliff we've ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • Govt’s Wellington tunnel vision aims to ease the way to the airport (but zealous promoters of cycl...
    Buzz from the Beehive A pet project and governmental tunnel vision jump out from the latest batch of ministerial announcements. The government is keen to assure us of its concern for the wellbeing of our pets. It will be introducing pet bonds in a change to the Residential Tenancies Act ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago

  • The case for cultural connectedness
    A recent report generated from a Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) survey of 1,224 rangatahi Māori aged 11-12 found: Cultural connectedness was associated with fewer depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and better quality of life. That sounds cut and dry. But further into the report the following appears: Cultural connectedness is ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Useful context on public sector job cuts
    David Farrar writes –    The Herald reports: From the gory details of job-cuts news, you’d think the public service was being eviscerated.   While the media’s view of the cuts is incomplete, it’s also true that departments have been leaking the particulars faster than a Wellington ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell On When Racism Comes Disguised As Anti-racism
    Remember the good old days, back when New Zealand had a PM who could think and speak calmly and intelligently in whole sentences without blustering? Even while Iran’s drones and missiles were still being launched, Helen Clark was live on TVNZ expertly summing up the latest crisis in the Middle ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    4 days ago

  • Govt ignored economic analysis of smokefree reversal
    Costello did not pass on analysis of the benefits of the smokefree reforms to Cabinet, emphasising instead the extra tax revenues of repealing them. Photo: Hagen Hopkins, Getty Images TL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me at 7:26 am today are:The Lead: Casey Costello never passed on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago

  • True Blue.
    True loveYou're the one I'm dreaming ofYour heart fits me like a gloveAnd I'm gonna be true blueBaby, I love youI’ve written about the job cuts in our news media last week. The impact on individuals, and the loss to Aotearoa of voices covering our news from different angles.That by ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • Who is running New Zealand’s foreign policy?
    While commentators, including former Prime Minister Helen Clark, are noting a subtle shift in New Zealand’s foreign policy, which now places more emphasis on the United States, many have missed a key element of the shift. What National said before the election is not what the government is doing now. ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    4 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #15
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 7, 2024 thru Sat, April 13, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week is about adults in the room setting terms and conditions of ...
    Skeptical Science
    5 days ago

  • Feline Friends and Fragile Fauna The Complexities of Cats in New Zealand’s Conservation Efforts

    Cats, with their independent spirit and beguiling purrs, have captured the hearts of humans for millennia. In New Zealand, felines are no exception, boasting the highest national cat ownership rate globally [definition cat nz cat foundation]. An estimated 1.134 million pet cats grace Kiwi households, compared to 683,000 dogs ...

    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    5 days ago

  • Or is that just they want us to think?
    Nice guy, that Peter Williams. Amiable, a calm air of no-nonsense capability, a winning smile. Everything you look for in a TV presenter and newsreader.I used to see him sometimes when I went to TVNZ to be a talking head or a panellist and we would yarn. Nice guy, that ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago

  • Fact Brief – Did global warming stop in 1998?
    Skeptical Science is partnering with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. This fact brief was written by Sue Bin Park in collaboration with members from our Skeptical Science team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Did global warming stop in ...
    Skeptical Science
    6 days ago

  • Arguing over a moot point.
    I have been following recent debates in the corporate and social media about whether it is a good idea for NZ to join what is known as “AUKUS Pillar Two.” AUKUS is the Australian-UK-US nuclear submarine building agreement in which … Continue reading → ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    6 days ago

  • No Longer Trusted: Ageing Boomers, Laurie & Les, Talk Politics.
    Turning Point: “What has turned me away from the mainstream news media is the very strong message that its been sending out for the last few years.” “And what message might that be?” “That the people who own it, the people who run it, and the people who provide its content, really don’t ...
    Bowalley Road
    6 days ago

  • Mortgage rates at 10% anyone?
    No – nothing about that in PM Luxon’s nine-point plan to improve the lives of New Zealanders. But beyond our shores Jamie Dimon, the long-serving head of global bank J.P. Morgan Chase, reckons that the chances of a goldilocks soft landing for the economy are “a lot lower” than the ...
    Point of OrderBy xtrdnry
    6 days ago

  • Sad tales from the left
    Michael Bassett writes –  Have you noticed the odd way in which the media are handling the government’s crackdown on surplus employees in the Public Service? Very few reporters mention the crazy way in which State Service numbers rocketed ahead by more than 16,000 during Labour’s six years, ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days 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 hours 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
    13 hours 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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    19 hours 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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    20 hours 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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    22 hours 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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    23 hours 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 ...
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    1 day 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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    1 day 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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    1 day 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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    2 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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    2 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
    2 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 ...
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    2 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 ...
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    2 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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    3 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
    3 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 ...
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    3 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 ...
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    3 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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    4 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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    4 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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    4 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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    4 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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    4 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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    4 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
    5 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 ...
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    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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
    7 days 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

  • NZ and US to undertake further practical Pacific cooperation
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced further New Zealand cooperation with the United States in the Pacific Islands region through $16.4 million in funding for initiatives in digital connectivity and oceans and fisheries research.   “New Zealand can achieve more in the Pacific if we work together more urgently and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Government redress for Te Korowai o Wainuiārua
    The Government is continuing the bipartisan effort to restore its relationship with iwi as the Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Claims Settlement Bill passed its first reading in Parliament today, says Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith. “Historical grievances of Te Korowai o Wainuiārua relate to 19th century warfare, land purchased or taken ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Focus on outstanding minerals permit applications
    New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals is working to resolve almost 150 outstanding minerals permit applications by the end of the financial year, enabling valuable mining activity and signalling to the sector that New Zealand is open for business, Resources Minister Shane Jones says.  “While there are no set timeframes for ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Applications open for NZ-Ireland Research Call
    The New Zealand and Irish governments have today announced that applications for the 2024 New Zealand-Ireland Joint Research Call on Agriculture and Climate Change are now open. This is the third research call in the three-year Joint Research Initiative pilot launched in 2022 by the Ministry for Primary Industries and Ireland’s ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Tenancy rules changes to improve rental market
    The coalition Government has today announced changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to encourage landlords back to the rental property market, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “The previous Government waged a war on landlords. Many landlords told us this caused them to exit the rental market altogether. It caused worse ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Boosting NZ’s trade and agricultural relationship with China
    Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay will visit China next week, to strengthen relationships, support Kiwi exporters and promote New Zealand businesses on the world stage. “China is one of New Zealand’s most significant trade and economic relationships and remains an important destination for New Zealand’s products, accounting for nearly 22 per cent of our good and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Freshwater farm plan systems to be improved
    The coalition Government intends to improve freshwater farm plans so that they are more cost-effective and practical for farmers, Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay have announced. “A fit-for-purpose freshwater farm plan system will enable farmers and growers to find the right solutions for their farm ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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