Dog whistles and South Auckland garages
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- Date published:
8:19 am, December 14th, 2022 - 20 comments
Categories: Christopher Luxon, labour, politicans, racism, uncategorized -
Tags: aupito william sio
I have a confession to make. I grew up in South Auckland. Aupito William Sio’s statement that South Auckland was the home of the young and beautiful and gifted has always struck a chord with me.
My family’s home property had a garage on it. The structure was pretty simple. My dad and my mum and my older sister lived there for a while as the family home was built. Heady times.
Our garage deteriorated a bit. It was not the sort of place that you would take your mates to and drink and talk about the meaning of life.
Next door my mate Steve moved in when I was a teenager. We went through adolescence together. His family’s garage was much better. It was bigger and drier. We could drink bourbon and beer and listen to music and talk about our future.
We turned out ok. Steve became a New York cop. Another mate became an accountant, a third became wealthy through real estate speculation and I ended up being a lawyer. One of our group turned to the dark side. For the record his surname and his ethnic grouping was “White”.
So I have always been sensitive about criticisms of South Auckland. It is a great place. There are areas of wealth but it is mostly poor but people are proud and very community focused.
Chris Luxon has received yet more notoriety by choosing to criticise South Auckland garages. He said this:
“If you’re sitting in a garage in South Auckland with your two brothers and you’re thinking about life and where you’re going, consciously or unconsciously, the gang life looks pretty attractive.
“They are the people who have got the money, got all the bling, flash cars and that looks incredibly attractive.
“It does come back to family dynamics as well.”
I can confidently say that my mates and I never talked about the gang life let alone how it was pretty attractive. But clearly I was not the sort of young person he was talking about. The racist subtext of what he said is really strong.
An uproar has occurred.
Aupito William Sio, in my view one of Labour’s best MPs, has accused Luxon of engaging in racist dog whistling politics. From the Herald:
Sio, who lives in the area, told the Herald Luxon’s comment was an outrageous generalisation of South Auckland youth, racist and dog whistle style politics.
“You’re attacking the South Auckland garage with your dog whistle stereotypes, when if you lived in South Auckland you’d know the garage is a sanctuary for many South Auckland families.
“Garages are places of family gatherings, for worshipping, funerals, 21st birthdays, Christmas celebrations.
“Luxon does not know South Auckland young people because the majority are good law-abiding, who listen to their parents, give back to their communities through sport and the church and lead good lives.
“He is grouping all South Auckland young people in with the very few who get themselves into trouble.”
Sio’s conclusion is wonderful:
“It’s dog whistle politics and I hope the young people – the generation of the six Bs – brown, beautiful, brainy, bilingual, bicultural and bold – stand up to this guy.
Luxon in response has apologised “if anyone is offended”. His apology is almost as bad as his original statement. A large part of South Auckland was offended. It is almost as if they do not count.
As I have said previously Luxon is no John Key. He is more like Don Brash, willing to use the dog whistle to rally support among the right. Who can forget his describing poor people as bottom feeders?
To add to all of this he will not commit to serving a full term if National does not win the next election.
All good progressives should do our best to help him with his new career. He is neither suited nor sufficiently talented to perform his current job.
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- Free programme to help older entrepreneurs and inventorsPeople aged over 50 with innovative business ideas will now be able to receive support to advance their ideas to the next stage of development, Minister for Seniors Ginny Andersen said today. “Seniors have some great entrepreneurial ideas, and this programme will give them the support to take that next ...20 hours ago
- Government target increased to keep powering up the Māori economyA cross government target for relevant government procurement contracts for goods and services to be awarded to Māori businesses annually will increase to 8%, after the initial 5% target was exceeded. The progressive procurement policy was introduced in 2020 to increase supplier diversity, starting with Māori businesses, for the estimated ...20 hours ago
- Continued progress on reducing poverty in challenging times77,000 fewer children living in low income households on the after-housing-costs primary measure since Labour took office Eight of the nine child poverty measures have seen a statistically significant reduction since 2018. All nine have reduced 28,700 fewer children experiencing material hardship since 2018 Measures taken by the Government during ...22 hours ago
- Government investments boost and diversify local economies in lower South Island$2.9 million convertible loan for Scapegrace Distillery to meet growing national and international demand $4.5m underwrite to support Silverlight Studios’ project to establish a film studio in Wanaka Gore’s James Cumming Community Centre and Library to be official opened tomorrow with support of $3m from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery ...23 hours ago
- Government future-proofs EV chargingTransport Minister Michael Wood has today launched the first national EV (electric vehicle) charging strategy, Charging Our Future, which includes plans to provide EV charging stations in almost every town in New Zealand. “Our vision is for Aotearoa New Zealand to have world-class EV charging infrastructure that is accessible, affordable, ...2 days ago
- World-leading family harm prevention campaign supports young NZersAssociate Minister for Social Development and Employment Priyanca Radhakrishnan has today launched the Love Better campaign in a world-leading approach to family harm prevention. Love Better will initially support young people through their experience of break-ups, developing positive and life-long attitudes to dealing with hurt. “Over 1,200 young kiwis told ...2 days ago
- First Chief Clinical Advisor welcomed into Coroners CourtHon Rino Tirikatene, Minister for Courts, welcomes the Ministry of Justice’s appointment of Dr Garry Clearwater as New Zealand’s first Chief Clinical Advisor working with the Coroners Court. “This appointment is significant for the Coroners Court and New Zealand’s wider coronial system.” Minister Tirikatene said. Through Budget 2022, the Government ...2 days ago
- Next steps for affected properties post Cyclone and floodsThe Government via the Cyclone Taskforce is working with local government and insurance companies to build a picture of high-risk areas following Cyclone Gabrielle and January floods. “The Taskforce, led by Sir Brian Roche, has been working with insurance companies to undertake an assessment of high-risk areas so we can ...2 days ago
- New appointment to Māori Land Court benchE te huia kaimanawa, ko Ngāpuhi e whakahari ana i tau aupikinga ki te tihi o te maunga. Ko te Ao Māori hoki e whakanui ana i a koe te whakaihu waka o te reo Māori i roto i te Ao Ture. (To the prized treasure, it is Ngāpuhi who ...2 days ago
- Government focus on jobs sees record number of New Zealanders move from Benefits into work113,400 exits into work in the year to June 2022 Young people are moving off Benefit faster than after the Global Financial Crisis Two reports released today by the Ministry of Social Development show the Government’s investment in the COVID-19 response helped drive record numbers of people off Benefits and ...2 days ago
- Vertical farming partnership has upward momentumThe Government’s priority to keep New Zealand at the cutting edge of food production and lift our sustainability credentials continues by backing the next steps of a hi-tech vertical farming venture that uses up to 95 per cent less water, is climate resilient, and pesticide-free. Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor visited ...3 days ago
- Conference of Pacific Education Ministers – Keynote AddressE nga mana, e nga iwi, e nga reo, e nga hau e wha, tena koutou, tena koutou, tena koutou kātoa. Warm Pacific greetings to all. It is an honour to host the inaugural Conference of Pacific Education Ministers here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Aotearoa is delighted to be hosting you ...3 days ago
- New $13m renal unit supports Taranaki patientsThe new renal unit at Taranaki Base Hospital has been officially opened by the Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall this afternoon. Te Huhi Raupō received around $13 million in government funding as part of Project Maunga Stage 2, the redevelopment of the Taranaki Base Hospital campus. “It’s an honour ...3 days ago
- Second Poseidon aircraft on home soilDefence Minister Andrew Little has marked the arrival of the country’s second P-8A Poseidon aircraft alongside personnel at the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Base at Ohakea today. “With two of the four P-8A Poseidons now on home soil this marks another significant milestone in the Government’s historic investment in ...3 days ago
- Further humanitarian aid for Türkiye and SyriaAotearoa New Zealand will provide further humanitarian support to those seriously affected by last month’s deadly earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, says Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta. “The 6 February earthquakes have had devastating consequences, with almost 18 million people affected. More than 53,000 people have died and tens of thousands more ...3 days ago
- Community voice to help shape immigration policyMigrant communities across New Zealand are represented in the new Migrant Community Reference Group that will help shape immigration policy going forward, Immigration Minister Michael Wood announced today. “Since becoming Minister, a reoccurring message I have heard from migrants is the feeling their voice has often been missing around policy ...3 days ago
- State Highway 3 project to deliver safer journeys, better travel connections for TaranakiConstruction has begun on major works that will deliver significant safety improvements on State Highway 3 from Waitara to Bell Block, Associate Minister of Transport Kiri Allan announced today. “This is an important route for communities, freight and visitors to Taranaki but too many people have lost their lives or ...3 days ago
- Ginny Andersen appointed as Minister of PolicePrime Minister Chris Hipkins has today appointed Ginny Andersen as Minister of Police. “Ginny Andersen has a strong and relevant background in this important portfolio,” Chris Hipkins said. “Ginny Andersen worked for the Police as a non-sworn staff member for around 10 years and has more recently been chair of ...4 days ago
- Government confirms vital roading reconnectionsSix further bailey bridge sites confirmed Four additional bridge sites under consideration 91 per cent of damaged state highways reopened Recovery Dashboards for impacted regions released The Government has responded quickly to restore lifeline routes after Cyclone Gabrielle and can today confirm that an additional six bailey bridges will ...4 days ago
- Foreign Minister Mahuta to meet with China’s new Foreign MinisterForeign Minister Nanaia Mahuta departs for China tomorrow, where she will meet with her counterpart, State Councillor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang, in Beijing. This will be the first visit by a New Zealand Minister to China since 2019, and follows the easing of COVID-19 travel restrictions between New Zealand and China. ...4 days ago
- Education Ministers from across the Pacific gather in AotearoaEducation Ministers from across the Pacific will gather in Tāmaki Makaurau this week to share their collective knowledge and strategic vision, for the benefit of ākonga across the region. New Zealand Education Minister Jan Tinetti will host the inaugural Conference of Pacific Education Ministers (CPEM) for three days from today, ...4 days ago
- State Highway 5 reopens between Napier and Taupō following Cyclone GabrielleA vital transport link for communities and local businesses has been restored following Cyclone Gabrielle with the reopening of State Highway 5 (SH5) between Napier and Taupō, Associate Minister of Transport Kiri Allan says. SH5 reopened to all traffic between 7am and 7pm from today, with closure points at SH2 (Kaimata ...4 days ago
- Special Lotto draw raises $11.7 million for Cyclone Gabrielle recoveryInternal Affairs Minister Barbara Edmonds has thanked generous New Zealanders who took part in the special Lotto draw for communities affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. Held on Saturday night, the draw raised $11.7 million with half of all ticket sales going towards recovery efforts. “In a time of need, New Zealanders ...5 days ago
- Government delivers a $3 million funding boost for Building Financial Capability servicesThe Government has announced funding of $3 million for providers to help people, and whānau access community-based Building Financial Capability services. “Demand for Financial Capability Services is growing as people face cost of living pressures. Those pressures are increasing further in areas affected by flooding and Cyclone Gabrielle,” Minister for ...7 days ago
- Education New Zealand | Manapou ki te Ao – new Chair and memberMinister of Education, Hon Jan Tinetti, has announced appointments to the Board of Education New Zealand | Manapou ki te Ao. Tracey Bridges is joining the Board as the new Chair and Dr Therese Arseneau will be a new member. Current members Dr Linda Sissons CNZM and Daniel Wilson have ...7 days ago
- Scholarships honouring Ngarimu VC and the 28th (Māori) Battalion announcedFifteen ākonga Māori from across Aotearoa have been awarded the prestigious Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarships and Awards for 2023, Associate Education Minister and Ngarimu Board Chair, Kelvin Davis announced today. The recipients include doctoral, masters’ and undergraduate students. Three vocational training students and five wharekura students, ...7 days ago
- Appointment of Judge of the Court of Appeal and Judge of the High CourtHigh Court Judge Jillian Maree Mallon has been appointed a Judge of the Court of Appeal, and District Court Judge Andrew John Becroft QSO has been appointed a Judge of the High Court, Attorney‑General David Parker announced today. Justice Mallon graduated from Otago University in 1988 with an LLB (Hons), and with ...7 days ago
- NZ still well placed to meet global challengesThe economy has continued to show its resilience despite today’s GDP figures showing a modest decline in the December quarter, leaving the Government well positioned to help New Zealanders face cost of living pressures in a challenging global environment. “The economy had grown strongly in the two quarters before this ...7 days ago
- Western Ring Route CompleteAucklanders now have more ways to get around as Transport Minister Michael Wood opened the direct State Highway 1 (SH1) to State Highway 18 (SH18) underpass today, marking the completion of the 48-kilometre Western Ring Route (WRR). “The Government is upgrading New Zealand’s transport system to make it safer, more ...7 days ago
- Briefings to Incoming MinistersThis section contains briefings received by incoming ministers following changes to Cabinet in January. Some information may have been withheld in accordance with the Official Information Act 1982. Where information has been withheld that is indicated within the document. ...7 days ago
- Teaming up for a stronger, more resilient FijiAotearoa New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta reaffirmed her commitment to working together with the new Government of Fiji on issues of shared importance, including on the prioritisation of climate change and sustainability, at a meeting today, in Nadi. Fiji and Aotearoa New Zealand’s close relationship is underpinned by the Duavata ...1 week ago
- Investment in blue highway a lifeline for regional economies and cyclone recoveryThe Government is delivering a coastal shipping lifeline for businesses, residents and the primary sector in the cyclone-stricken regions of Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti, Regional Development Minister Kiri Allan announced today. The Rangitata vessel has been chartered for an emergency coastal shipping route between Gisborne and Napier, with potential for ...1 week ago
- Next steps developing clean energy for NZThe Government will progress to the next stage of the NZ Battery Project, looking at the viability of pumped hydro as well as an alternative, multi-technology approach as part of the Government’s long term-plan to build a resilient, affordable, secure and decarbonised energy system in New Zealand, Energy and Resources ...1 week ago
- Statement from the Prime Minister on Stuart NashThis morning I was made aware of a media interview in which Minister Stuart Nash criticised a decision of the Court and said he had contacted the Police Commissioner to suggest the Police appeal the decision. The phone call took place in 2021 when he was not the Police Minister. ...1 week ago
- CPTPP Trade Ministers coming to AucklandThe Government’s sharp focus on trade continues with Aotearoa New Zealand set to host Trade Ministers and delegations from 10 Asia Pacific economies at a meeting of Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Commission members in July, Minister for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor announced today. “New Zealand ...1 week ago
- Govt approves $25 million extension for cyclone-affected businesses$25 million boost to support more businesses with clean-up in cyclone affected regions, taking total business support to more than $50 million Demand for grants has been strong, with estimates showing applications will exceed the initial $25 million business support package Grants of up to a maximum of $40,000 per ...1 week ago
- More than 160,000 new Kiwis to call NZ home80 per cent of 2021 Resident Visas applications have been processed – three months ahead of schedule Residence granted to 160,000 people 84,000 of 85,000 applications have been approved Over 160,000 people have become New Zealand residents now that 80 per cent of 2021 Resident Visa (2021RV) applications have been ...1 week ago
- Scholarships propel Kiwi students to NASAThe Government continues to invest in New Zealand’s burgeoning space industry, today announcing five scholarships for Kiwi Students to undertake internships at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in California. Economic Development Minister Stuart Nash congratulated Michaela Dobson (University of Auckland), Leah Albrow (University of Canterbury) and Jack Naish, Celine Jane ...1 week ago
- A new study on Australian volcanoes has changed what we know about explosive ‘hotspot’ volcanism
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Al-Tamini Tapu, Geoscientist, The University of Queensland Warrumbungle national park. colinslack/Shutterstock Our new study published in Nature Geoscience on an ancient chain of Australian volcanoes is helping to change our understanding of “hotspot” volcanism. You may be surprised to learn eastern ...1 hour ago - Time to grow up: Australia’s national security dilemma demands a mature debateSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matthew Sussex, Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University There’s been a lot of recent shouting about Australia’s national security policy. It began with the Nine newspapers’ “Red Alert” extravaganza, spread over multiple articles. Featuring a graphic of warplanes ...1 hour ago
- Want an easy $400 a year? Ditch the gas heater in your home for an electric split systemSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Goldlust, Adjunct Research Fellow, School of Archaeology and History, La Trobe University Shutterstock Earlier this month, regulators flagged electricity price rises in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. Like many people, you’re probably wondering how you can ...1 hour ago
- 4-day work week trials have been labelled a ‘resounding success’. But 4 big questions need answe...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anthony Veal, Adjunct Professor, Business School, University of Technology Sydney Shutterstock A little more than a century ago, most people in industrialised countries worked 60 hours a week – six ten-hour days. A 40-hour work week of five eight-hour days ...1 hour ago
- The gaming audience is ‘queerer than ever’ – so how are game creators responding?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Xavier Ho, Lecturer in Interaction Design, Monash University Sony Entertainment Mainstream games are embracing openly queer characters – and so are many of their players and fans. The Last of Us, the prestige HBO adaptation of the critically lauded ...1 hour ago
- The Bulletin: Let’s Get Wellington Moving consultant costs in the crosshairs
The capital’s transport overhaul will have spent $130 million on consultant fees by the end of next year, Stuff reports. Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM) expects to spend $60 million on outside experts in the coming year, after already spending $38.5m in the past three years and $35m this year. Greater ...1 hour ago - National’s ‘back to basics’ plan to address the literacy crisisChristopher Luxon says the policy is what’s needed to address serious issues with reading, writing and maths in primary schools. Others aren’t so sure, writes Catherine McGregor in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. Back ...2 hours ago
- Flood-affected Aucklanders breathe a sigh of rates relief
Although Auckland Council’s big cleanup following this year’s extreme weather events continues, “things are getting more difficult at this point”. Five weeks after Cyclone Gabrielle, some 7,000 Aucklanders remain impacted by the aftermath of the floods, slips and heavy winds that battered the region in January and February. Auckland Council’s ...3 hours ago - A new motorway took all the traffic away – but don’t write Huntly off just yetA traffic bypass stole 20,000 potential daily visitors from its main streets and local businesses. Three years on, how are the Waikato town’s 9,000 residents coping? The tourism centre is closed – “permanently”, says the sign. The cafe next door, once called River Haven, now with two missing letters making ...4 hours ago
- A year on from the death of Levi James, what’s changed for Auckland cyclists?After a 19-year-old was killed while riding his bike on a dangerous stretch of Auckland road, the tragedy became a rallying call to make the city safer for cyclists. Tommy de Silva looks at what’s been achieved in the 12 months since. On March 5, 2022, 19-year-old Levi James was ...4 hours ago
- Airport share sales fraught with difficulty – but retaining ownership is costly
The council's proposal to sell Auckland Airport shares is an uncanny throwback ...4 hours ago - One small step towards banning ‘forever chemicals’
PFAS in cosmetics enter the environment through the water we drink, the food we eat, and the air we breathe Opinion: New Zealand’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has proposed a ban on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in cosmetics as part of its update to the Cosmetic ...4 hours ago - Health advice scrubbed due to anti-trans pressure
Pressure from anti-transgender activists led the Ministry of Health to remove health advice regarding puberty blockers from its website. ...4 hours ago - Bring back the Ministry of Works
The now defunct ministry is the kind of agency needed to fix our current infrastructure disaster - not Civil Defence and independent sub-contracting and consulting firms. ...4 hours ago - Twinkle toes teen runs riot in world sevens
Jorja Miller has quickly become one of the key players in the successful Black Ferns Sevens in her first season on the world series circuit, and it's a unique combination of sports that's helped her reach the top, Merryn Anderson discovers. Jorja Miller’s life has always been a balancing act between her ...4 hours ago - A storm in a lolly jar? The pineapple chew controversy
Can you really call a mass-produced lolly dipped in chocolate "handmade"? The Detail finds out why it's important that products are what they say on the tin. The Potter Brothers saga In 2020, Courtnay Adele - who went on to be a contestant in The Great Kiwi Bake Off - posted a video ...4 hours ago - Risk of political violence this election still high – Shaw
Someone could be injured, or worse, during this year’s election campaign, warns James Shaw ...4 hours ago - Daily crossword, Friday 24 March
...5 hours ago - Newsroom daily quiz, Friday 24 March
Loading...(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){var ql=document.querySelectorAll('A[quiz],DIV[quiz],A[data-quiz],DIV[data-quiz]'); if(ql){if(ql.length){for(var k=0;k<ql.length;k++){ql[k].id='quiz-embed-'+k;ql[k].href="javascript:var i=document.getElementById('quiz-embed-"+k+"');try{qz.startQuiz(i)}catch(e){i.start=1;i.style.cursor='wait';i.style.opacity='0.5'};void(0);"}}};i['QP']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)})(window,document,'script','https://take.quiz-maker.com/3012/CDN/quiz-embed-v1.js','qp'); Got a good quiz question? Send Newsroom your questions. ...5 hours ago - We used DNA from Beethoven’s hair to shed light on his poor health – and stumbled upon a family ...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robert Attenborough, Honorary Senior Lecturer in Bioanthropology, Australian National University Kevin Brown, Author provided Many astonishingly creative people have lived lives cut tragically short by illness. Johannes Vermeer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Jane Austen, Franz Schubert and Emily Brontë are some ...9 hours ago
- Grattan on Friday: A ‘No’ vote in the Voice referendum would put a serious dent in Australia’s...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra At the end of the emotional news conference in which he unveiled the wording for the Voice referendum, Anthony Albanese touched on a central reason why a “yes” result is vital. Australia would be ...9 hours ago
- Why bioplastics won’t solve our plastic problemsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Elsa Dominish, Research Principal, Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney Shutterstock Last month, Victoria banned plastic straws, crockery and polystyrene containers, following similar bans in South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales and the ACT. All states and ...14 hours ago
- Union and Labour criticise National's new curriculum policy
Education union NZEI's president says National's new education policy is "like asking the All Blacks to have their goalposts painted a different colour of white and thinking you've made a change". ...14 hours ago - China’s only now revealed crucial COVID-19 origins data. Earlier disclosure may have saved us 3 ye...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dominic Dwyer, Director of Public Health Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, University of Sydney Once more, we’re talking about the origins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. First the US Department of Energy’s review gave more ...15 hours ago
- Vanuatu minister says harvests will take time to recover after cyclonesBy Caleb Fotheringham, RNZ Pacific journalist Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change warns “there’s going to be a lot of hardship” for people waiting for their crops to grow back as dry rations are distributed to communities. Minister Ralph Regenvanu said the main food push started in the middle of last ...15 hours ago
- As Pacific islanders, we bear the brunt of the climate crisis. The time to end fossil fuel dependenc...Monday’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report has given a “final warning” to avert global catastrophe. Pacific cabinet ministers call on all world leaders to urgently transition to renewables. COMMENT: By Ralph Regenvanu and Seve Paeniu The cycle is repeating itself. A tropical cyclone of frightening strength strikes a ...15 hours ago
- Politics with Michelle Grattan: Michael Brennan on Australia’s parlous productivity growthSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Productivity Commission’s nine-volume report has a tough central message. It says productivity policy has to focus on the areas that have proven the hardest in the past, rather than those where previously progress has ...16 hours ago
- Child poverty reduction stalls ahead of cost-of-living crisisThe latest child poverty stats show there was no statistically significant improvement in the year to June 2022. But Child Poverty Reduction Minister Jan Tinetti says even one child living in poverty is "too many". ...16 hours ago
- Wellington mayor decries ‘Auxit’ as Wayne Brown leads Auckland out of local government groupThe Auckland mayor’s casting vote to take the Super City out of Local Government NZ shows a lack of team play, says Tory Whanau, while LGNZ’s president insists it will cost everyone, including Auckland ratepayers. The Auckland Council withdrawal from Local Government NZ, a national association of local, regional and ...16 hours ago
- ‘We’re all in’, declares an emotional Albanese as he launches the wording for the Voice refere...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra An emotional Anthony Albanese, flanked by members of the referendum working group, has released the final proposed wording of the question to be put to Australians to incorporate an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the ...16 hours ago
- Rainbow groups launch legal action over decision on Kellie-Jay Keen-MinshullA group of rainbow and human rights organisations has filed for judicial review in the High Court, following the lack of intervention by the immigration minister, Michael Wood, over the decision to allow Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, an anti-trans-rights activist, to enter the country. Gender Minorities Aotearoa, InsideOUT Kōaro, and Auckland Pride ...17 hours ago
- Rainbow groups take Immigration Minister to court over Posie Parker decisionA coalition of rainbow community groups are taking Immigration Minister Michael Wood to court over a decision to allow a controversial anti-transgender activist into the country. ...17 hours ago
- Immigration Minister’s Failure To Act Challenged In High Court By Rainbow Organisations
Today human rights organisations Gender Minorities Aotearoa, InsideOUT Kōaro, and Auckland Pride filed for judicial review in the High Court. Our case follows the Immigration Minister's decision to allow Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, a known anti-transgender ...17 hours ago - Amazon group's web services signs cooperation deal with New Zealand governmentThe US tech giant is building large data centres here and has been courting senior ministers for months. ...17 hours ago
- Auckland pulls a Brexit – on the mayor's casting vote
The great southern joke that New Zealand does indeed end at the Bombay Hills, but that it starts at Bluff, takes on a new hue now with Auckland Council breaking away from the sector organisation Local Government NZ Auckland Council has suddenly pulled its own version of Brexit. At the ...17 hours ago - Auckland Council to leave LGNZ, Wayne Brown casts deciding voteAuckland Council will leave Local Government NZ, the group that represents councils acorss the country. It’s part of mayor Wayne Brown’s attempts to curb spending in the face of a multimillion dollar budget hole. About $400,000 could be saved from the decision to leave the group. According to tweets, the ...18 hours ago
- Ratepayer Victory: Auckland Council Resigns From Unaccountable Pressure Group LgnzThe Auckland Ratepayers’ Alliance is welcoming Auckland Council’s decision to resign from Local Government New Zealand. On Thursday, the Governing Body voted 11-10 for Auckland Council to resign its membership of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ). ...18 hours ago
- AI tools are generating convincing misinformation. Engaging with them means being on high alertSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa M. Given, Professor of Information Sciences & Director, Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT University This is a fake AI-generated image. Daniel Kempe via Twitter/Midjourney AI tools can help us create content, learn about the world and (perhaps) eliminate the more ...18 hours ago
- Oxfam Respond To ETS Review Announcement...19 hours ago
- We were told we’d be riding in self-driving cars by now. What happened to the promised revolution?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Neil G Sipe, Honorary Professor of Planning, The University of Queensland According to predictions made nearly a decade ago, we should be riding around in self-driving vehicles today. It’s now clear the autonomous vehicle revolution was overhyped. Proponents woefully underestimated the ...19 hours ago
- We now know exactly what question the Voice referendum will ask Australians. A constitutional law ex...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Twomey, Professor emerita, University of Sydney The Albanese government has now released the formal wording of the proposed referendum it will introduce into parliament next week. It had earlier released a draft proposed amendment at the Garma Festival last year, ...19 hours ago
- Submissions Open On New Zealand Joining International Solar Energy OrganisationSubmissions are invited on the examination of an agreement which would enable New Zealand to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA is an inter-governmental organisation which aims to develop and share solar energy expertise to reduce global ...19 hours ago
- ‘Zombie of the past’: Labour takes aim at National’s curriculum rewriteThe National Party’s plan for rewriting the school curriculum looks a lot like the “failed experiment” of national standards, according to the education minister. It was revealed today that, as prime minister, Christopher Luxon would introduce regular testing for primary and intermediate-age children and enforce more consistent teaching of reading, ...19 hours ago
- A multi media guide to trans rights and allyshipKeen to equip yourself with information and resources to support and affirm the idea that everyone has the right to feel safe and secure in their own skin? Here’s a list of resources to help self-educate and bolster your confidence when it comes to making a stand for trans rights. ...19 hours ago
- Child Poverty “Unnecessary”The latest statistics released have shown that 120,000 children are still living in homes who experience material hardship. 'The number of children still experiencing poverty is so unnecessary given how rich of a country we are' says Auckland Action ...19 hours ago
- Newsroom podcast shortlisted for international award
The debut podcast produced by Newsroom Investigates has been selected as a finalist in two categories of a prestigious international award Newsroom Investigates podcast, Peter Ellis, the Creche Case & Me, has been shortlisted for two categories in the 2023 New York Festivals Radio Awards. Peter Ellis, the Creche Case ...19 hours ago - Clinic Registration And Planning Key To Accessing Prompt Veterinary Care In EmergenciesPet owners are being encouraged to register with a veterinary clinic, understand what services they provide, and have a robust emergency plan in place. Veterinary Council of New Zealand (VCNZ) Professional Advisor Seton Butler says the veterinary ...19 hours ago
- Does the PSVR2 finally make VR worth the plunge?VR gaming has come a long way with the new PSVR2 console – but is it worth putting down the controller and putting on a helmet for? When it comes to virtual reality, I remain something of a luddite. My past experiences with this form of gaming have mostly ...19 hours ago
- Children Languishing In Poverty Forgotten In Government Policies, Says CPAGLatest figures measuring child poverty rates in Aotearoa New Zealand are a sad indictment on the country with no real improvement in policy that could turn things around, according to Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), the leading voice on the issue. StatsNZ ...20 hours ago
- The referendum rules have been decided. What does this mean for the Voice?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Kildea, Associate Professor, Faculty of Law & Justice, UNSW Sydney On Wednesday night, the Senate passed a bill to amend Australia’s referendum machinery laws, ending a long and sometimes tense debate on the rules that will govern the Voice referendum later ...20 hours ago
- Stormwater Identified As Neglected WaterLatest findings by Water New Zealand have revealed significant under investment and a lack of consistency at a national level for funding stormwater networks across Aotearoa New Zealand. The latest National Performance Review has found that investment ...20 hours ago
- Children's Commissioner – Targeted Action Needed To Address Child Poverty Right Now...21 hours ago
- Our child protection system is clearly broken. Is it time to abolish it for a better model?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Newcomb, Lecturer, Queensland University of Technology Shutterstock The tragic deaths of two small children in an overheated car in Queensland in 2019 highlight just how flawed our child protection system has become. Darcey and Chloe Conley were known to ...21 hours ago
- National unveils education policyIt’s Thursday, March 23 and welcome to The Spinoff’s live updates. I’m Stewart Sowman-Lund and you can get in touch on [email protected] The agenda National’s new education policy would introduce standardised testing for students in years three to eight. New child poverty stats show one-year plateau. Broadcaster ...21 hours ago
- Anti-trans activism is extremely harmful. It’s also a confusingly wasteful use of time.When trans people are being targeted, the least the rest of us can do is lend some of our time, writes Mad Chapman. Everyone has causes they’re passionate about. For some it’s climate action or the environment. For many its indigenous rights. For others its legalising cannabis or euthanasia or ...21 hours ago
- National wants standardised testing for primary, intermediate studentsPrimary and intermediate school children would be tested twice a year as part of a new education plan unveiled by the National Party. As part of the party’s plan to rewrite the school curriculum, students in years three to right would undergo “standardised, robust assessment” in reading, writing at maths ...21 hours ago
- Child Poverty Data Shows The Continuing Need For Investment In Our Most Vulnerable FamiliesChild poverty numbers produced by Statistics New Zealand today showed the continuing need for investment in our most vulnerable families, said CTU Economist Craig Renney. Renney said “the number of children living in poverty has not moved significantly ...21 hours ago
- Ghosts come back to haunt both Donald Trump, Boris JohnsonTwo former world leaders are both embroiled in ongoing scandals surrounding their time in office. Former US president Donald Trump is expecting to be arrested this week – though the details remain unclear – over hush money payments during his campaign back in 2016. Trump, as 1News reported, stated on ...21 hours ago
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Luxon is living proof why senior roles in business are the worst possible preparation for politics and especially for genuine political leadership. Those jobs tend to attract people who are already morally and spiritually damaged and then they exacerbate that damage.
If the gangs offered to block vote National if Luxon ran the Christmas BBQ he'd be straight down to the Mad Butcher for some sausies IMHO.
Are you denying that there are kids in South Auckland who are being attracted to gangs? I guarantee you there are.
I am also getting a bit concerned with people underestimating Luxon. It was a constant theme in 2007 and 2008 when we assumed Clark would wipe the floor with Key in the campaign and he would return to his corporate life. Just read TheStandard archives and the exact same things were said then as they are now.
Luxon is no Key, and he would be the first to admit that. But he is dangerous and odds on to be PM in 12 months.
He's odds on, all right. National's still up to its neck in dirty politics, but they've fine-tuned their delivery to make them close to if not untouchable. Instead of black ops smear campaigns, which probably still go on, it's more like 'lie and walk away, then repeat', and it's working.
Labour needs to either work out what to do, or hope for a miracle. They certainly can't keep doing this:
https://www.bspnova.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/mowing-the-lawn.png
Had some great times in Sth Auckland garages when I worked in the Car Industry for 20 years. They could be utilised for anything, such as extra living space, storage, social clubs, lounges, craft production/workshops, family shrines with photos and keepsakes, or even parking cars.
Mr “7 pads” Luxury Luxon does not deserve to be Prime Minister of this country.
We get a glimpse of what lies beneath. He is a cold man. Many photos of his face in micro response show distaste and calculation imo. "Man of the people" he is not.
Was the expression the right way around in the post?
If Christopher doesn't win the next election I doubt he can commit to waking up the next morning without a knife sticking out of his back either.
They won't need a knife he'll be off like a dirty shirt.
What is the dark side?….gangs?…voting national?
Seems that Luxon is getting his cues from watching gangsta rap videos on YouTube. How bizarre.
Atleast luxons honest I guess ,key pretending to care about poor people even the brown ones.
So … graduated from chasing cars to chasing garages?
Arrogant prick. Just my opinion.He is a man of no substance and a long list of cliches and catchphrases. Cluxon should resign. He appears to be racist. RESIGN Seems to be his go to for everyone else. Should take his own advice. And take OffenDull with him..
Damn. He forgot to mention that every South Auckland garage has a stolen Subaru being broken down for parts (usually after being used in a ram raid or as a getaway vehicle). I guess maybe the tour bus went by too fast to get a good look, or maybe the silver spoon had become dislodged and was getting painful to sit on…
Today Luxon said our UNO ( and WHO)? do not meet with his approval. He says they are weak. Further he thought small nations should be armed.
According to Granny Herald that makes him a Statesman. Lol. (Help with the link would be appreciated.)
He hasn't had a portfolio yet, further he is on record he will probably leave if he does not win. Strange idea of a Statesman.
So….. interpretation.
Rule of Law is weak? ie discussion and collective action is a waste of time?
Armed Police? and an armed and loaded military is needed for small countries in his view?
People who are better at interpreting "Slux" might help.
Appalling comments from the Leader oof the National Party, out of touch, we cannot let this man to be PM of our country
Luxon is showing his true colours : first " we are not working for bottom feeders", after businesses are "soft " in front of Tories in UK and in Australian media, giving tax cuts for rich ( finally cancelled), anti salaries increase, anti 10 days sick leave in a pandemic, asking for borders to be opened when Delta was killing hundreds of thousands, anti Fair pay agreement law , anti 3 waters co governance, anti everything Labour is doing to lift New Zealand from the mess left by his predecessor. National lies are blatant. Unfortunately they owned the media: we all know facts but majority of kiwis get news only from media which is spreading misleading falsehoods at the orders of their owners or CEO. Same tactics as Trump , Boris , Scott Morrison : lie lielie repeat . With TVNZ political journalists advising Luxon to be more on photo op acknowledged by journalists on TV…Labour would loose the election not because they've not achieved what they've promissed to as facts speak for themselves but because of media spreading misleading falsehoods .
And don't forget the arrogant prick called Maori "thugs"
This self opinionated, self satisfied prick, has no idea of what goes on in South Auckland garages or any other garages in NZ, other than his own well stuffed garage with cars and toys.
The issue for David Seymour is that local and global phenomenon, Jacinda Ardern, has anointed him, "arrogant prick".
That sticks and he knows it.
A keen student of one-line political theatre, Seymour will know how damaging this super-meme is which is why he napalmed the media al day today with 'the meek shall inherit the earth' shit. Also, he likes to maximise self-promotion whenever the opportunity may arise.
This whole episode was born out of Seymour's line of questioning the other day. He wanted the PM to acknowledge and apologise for mistakes, but more correctly he wanted the PM to acknowledge and apologise for things he saw as mistakes.
I'm sure student politician David Rimmer thought this was a great idea, but it kind of got away from him.