Is National’s Luxon among the quick or the dead?
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7:15 am, December 8th, 2021 - 136 comments
Categories: brand key, Christopher Luxon, john key, Media, politicans, Politics -
Tags: cult, jack tame
My observation, as a former journalist, is that one of the most important traits for a successful political leader career is quick-wittedness.
It can’t be taught or learned – you either have it, or you don’t as David Lange or John Key had. It’s the ability, when thrown a left-field question, or a crisis blows up, to know instinctively, without hesitation, the correct response. It was best illustrated by Jacinda Ardern at the onset of the Christchurch massacre.
In his first week in the role, new National Party leader Christopher Luxon displayed quick feet that Will Jordan would be proud of. There’s been the odd slip – at the presser on day one he was well off target with figures on the living wage and the unemployment rate, while later in a tv interview he complained about extra costs for employers imposed by the new “mataangi” (sic) holiday. Though not a lay-down misère, the former Air NZ Boss piloted the turbulence of the curliest media questions in a way that suggests he could be in that select group of fast thinkers.
He cleverly front-footed a big defensive hole – his commitment to an evangelical church that is so far from centre that it could be labelled a cult. Luxon kept re-iterating the messaging of last year’s maiden speech to parliament that his faith “is personal to me” and not in itself a political agenda.
Despite this supposed separation of faith and politics, Luxon’s politics are conservative on moral questions like abortion, euthanasia or the death penalty.
His views on matters such as abortion are troubling to many of us, but even more troubling is his lack of judgement in supporting a “church” such as Auckland’s Upper Room. That church’s pastor, Craig Heilmann, has expressed extremist, far-right views on “globalists’” (code for Jews), George Soros’ apparently coaching of Greta Thunberg, Trump’s electoral loss being a conspiracy by “the administrative state” and that climate change isn’t real.
Obviously, Luxon doesn’t necessarily agree with all that claptrap from the Upper Room pastor but plenty of people legitimately ask why the content of Pastor Heilmann’s ravings on twitter and the related Upper Room website content were permanently removed on the day Luxon’s candidacy for safe seat of Botany was announced.
When Luxon was asked by Q&A’s Jack Tame on Sunday why he had stopped going to church, the former AirNZ boss gave the strange reply that it was because he kept getting hit-on for free flights to the UK, adding that his “faith is really personal to me and I don’t need to go to church to work my faith.”
Tame delved into Luxon’s other big weakness – his wealth. The Dominon Post splashed a spread about Luxon’s $21 million investment in properties – a family home in Remuera, a Waiheke Island bach, an apartment in Wellington, his electoral office and three investment properties – that has delivered him $90,000 a week in the last year in capital gains alone.
Asked why, if improving Aotearoa’s productivity was so important, did he put so much into a speculative, unproductive investment, the 51-year-old, whose annual remuneration was over $4 million at Air NZ, hinted property may only be a small part of his portfolio. “My investment goes across a series of asset classes and some of that’s in property.”
He refused to say how many homes were too many, adding it was not immoral to own multiple houses. “You are going to need people who actually have unique, great landlords. There is (sic) always going to be people who are always renting houses. We are going to need people to invest in housing.”
When asked to comment on former Prime Minister Jim Bolger comments that it was time to reconsider capitalism, Luxon said that while “some compassion in capitalism, is very, very important”, it was preferable to socialism.
“I think the bottom line is that capitalism has been a very good model for the world. It’s lifted several billion people, 2 billion people, I’d say, out of poverty in the last 20 or 30 years.”
Tame failed to note that communist China, using some capitalist methods, has lifted far more out of poverty or that Luxon’s former company, Air NZ would unlikely have survived the turmoil of the current pandemic without state support.
Luxon said he is a disciple of Bill English’s social intervention theory whereby people with “very complex, challenged and messy lives” are identified and supported. It was preferable to spend the money up front on social services and education to help them “participate”.
His views on the government’s fiscal position were in line with right wing convention. Taxes, debt and spending are all too high and he would like to cut each, but not yet.
“At this point we are not increasing taxes but I also couldn’t come to you and say we are going to lower taxes either. We would love to do that but the question is, at the moment, we need to get spending under control.”
Luxon’s solution is to invest in infrastructure to improve productivity. That will produce higher incomes and allow people choice.
He agreed with Ardern’s assertion that climate change is “our generation’s nuclear-free moment”, but criticised her government for not following up the declaration. When asked whether he agreed the Climate Commission that Aotearoa had to reduce its dairy herd, Luxon said that would open the way for dirtier dairy farmers overseas.
“What we do know there is no obvious pathway or technology today to get to the outcome we all want to get to in terms of reducing the emissions but we are the best [dairy farmers] and we should actually lead that development.”
Luxon passed Tame’s test on the articles of Ti Tiriti, saying he is open-minded on Maori solutions for Maori but then went down the rabbit hole of separatism.
“What we have been talking about and, I think in recent times, has been the notion that co-governance means 50:50 – you know separatism.” He said the proposed Maori Health Authority is a “separatist” concept.
“To me, I want to see us working as one country, equal, but actually to be able to deal with a lot of Maori inequities.”
Luxon admitted to Tame that he speaks to former prime minister John Key “several times” a week. Though at pains to tell media he is no John Key 2.0, that degree of contact suggests Key is pulling some, if not many, strings.
I have little doubt Luxon, backed up by his politically-savvy deputy, Nicola Willis, will be a far more formidable challenge for Ardern than Judith Collins was. It will be interesting, however, to see whether the electorate will again suppress its egalitarian instincts and vote for a smooth-talking rich man.
(Simon Louisson reported for The Wall Street Journal, AP Dow Jones Newswires, New Zealand Press Association and Reuters and briefly was a political and media adviser to the Green Party.)
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- Central Bank makes clear Government is pouring fuel on housing crisis fireToday’s Financial Stability Report has once again highlighted that poverty and deep inequality are political choices - and this Government is choosing to make them worse. ...6 days ago
- New unemployment figures paint bleak pictureThe Green Party is calling on the Government to do more for our households in most need as unemployment rises and the cost of living crisis endures. ...6 days ago
- Release: National’s job cuts already starting to bite as unemployment risesUnemployment is on the rise and it’s only going to get worse under this Government, Labour finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said. Stats NZ figures show the unemployment rate grew to 4.3 percent in the March quarter from 4 percent in the December quarter. “This is the second rise in unemployment ...6 days ago
- Release: National hiking transport costs for families and young New ZealandersWeekly expenses will grow for more than 1.6 million New Zealanders as the Government ends free and half price public transport fares tomorrow. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour welcomes EU free trade agreementThe New Zealand Labour Party welcomes the entering into force of the European Union and New Zealand free trade agreement. This agreement opens the door for a huge increase in trade opportunities with a market of 450 million people who are high value discerning consumers of New Zealand goods and ...1 week ago
- Surprise: Landlord tax cuts don’t trickle downThe Green Party is renewing its call for rent controls following reports of rental prices hitting an all-time high. ...1 week ago
- Release: $1.7b for no increase in access to medicineThe National-led Government continues its fiscal jiggery pokery with its Pharmac announcement today, Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall says. “The government has increased Pharmac funding but conceded it will only make minimal increases in access to medicine”, said Ayesha Verrall “This is far from the bold promises made to fund ...1 week ago
- Release: National should heed Tribunal warning and scrap coalition commitment with ACTThis afternoon’s interim Waitangi Tribunal report must be taken seriously as it affects our most vulnerable children, Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime. ...1 week ago
- Release: More accountability for preventable workplace deaths this Workers’ Memorial DayLabour is calling for more accountability for preventable workplace deaths because everybody who goes to work deserves to come home safely. ...1 week ago
- Gaza: Aotearoa Must Support Independent Investigation into Mass GravesTe Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Working together on consistent support for veterans this Anzac DayOur two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Penny drops – but what about Seymour and Peters?Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...2 weeks ago
- Another ‘Stolen Generation’ enabled by court ruling on Waitangi Tribunal summonsTonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Budget blunder shows Nicola Willis could cut recovery fundingIt appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...2 weeks ago
- Further environmental mismanagement on the cardsThe Government’s resource management reforms will add to the heavy and ever-growing burden this Government is loading on to our environment. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: RMA changes will be a disaster for environmentThe Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour supports urgent changes to emergency management systemLabour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls for New Zealand to recognise PalestineThe Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Three strikes law political posturing of worst kindThe Government is bringing back a law that has little evidential backing just to look tough, Labour justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Government cuts unbelievably target child exploitation, violent extremism, ports and airpor...Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...2 weeks ago
- Three strikes has failed before and will fail againResurrecting the archaic three-strikes legislation is an unwelcome return to a failed American-style approach to justice. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Environmental protection vital, not ‘onerous’The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Ferris – Three Strikes targets those ‘too brown to be white’The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt cuts doctors and nurses in hiring freezeCuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...3 weeks ago
- Fast-track submissions period must be extendedThe Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...3 weeks ago
- Release: Progress on climate will be undone by GovtNew Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...3 weeks ago
- Defence industry talent, commitment recognised
Defence Minister Judith Collins tonight announced the recipients of the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry, saying they all contribute to New Zealanders’ security and wellbeing. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients, whose innovative products and services play a critical role in the delivery of New Zealand’s defence capabilities, ...18 mins ago - Speech to the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for IndustryWelcome to you all - it is a pleasure to be here this evening.I would like to start by thanking Greg Lowe, Chair of the New Zealand Defence Industry Advisory Council, for co-hosting this reception with me. This evening is about recognising businesses from across New Zealand and overseas who in ...34 mins ago
- Speech to the Sixth Annual New Zealand Government Data SummitIt is a pleasure to be speaking to you as the Minister for Digitising Government. I would like to thank Akolade for the invitation to address this Summit, and to acknowledge the great effort you are making to grow New Zealand’s digital future. Today, we stand at the cusp of ...2 hours ago
- Ceasefire agreement needed now: PetersNew Zealand is urging both Israel and Hamas to agree to an immediate ceasefire to avoid the further humanitarian catastrophe that military action in Rafah would unleash, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. “The immense suffering in Gaza cannot be allowed to worsen further. Both sides have a responsibility to ...7 hours ago
- Daily school attendance data now availableA new online data dashboard released today as part of the Government’s school attendance action plan makes more timely daily attendance data available to the public and parents, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. The interactive dashboard will be updated once a week to show a national average of how ...8 hours ago
- Ambassador to United States appointedForeign Minister Winston Peters has announced Rosemary Banks will be New Zealand’s next Ambassador to the United States of America. “Our relationship with the United States is crucial for New Zealand in strategic, security and economic terms,” Mr Peters says. “New Zealand and the United States have a ...11 hours ago
- New permit proposed for recreational gold miningThe Government is considering creating a new tier of minerals permitting that will make it easier for hobby miners to prospect for gold. “New Zealand was built on gold, it’s in our DNA. Our gold deposits, particularly in regions such as Otago and the West Coast have always attracted fortune-hunters. ...12 hours ago
- NZ and the UAE launch FTA negotiationsMinister for Trade Todd McClay today announced that New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA). Minister McClay met with his counterpart UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Dubai, where they announced the launch of negotiations on a ...16 hours ago
- New Zealand Sign Language Week an opportunity for anyone to signNew Zealand Sign Language Week is an excellent opportunity for all Kiwis to give the language a go, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. This week (May 6 to 12) is New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week. The theme is “an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere” and aims to ...1 day ago
- Next stop NASA for New Zealand studentsSix tertiary students have been selected to work on NASA projects in the US through a New Zealand Space Scholarship, Space Minister Judith Collins announced today. “This is a fantastic opportunity for these talented students. They will undertake internships at NASA’s Ames Research Center or its Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where ...1 day ago
- $1.9 billion investment to keep NZ safe from crimeNew Zealanders will be safer because of a $1.9 billion investment in more frontline Corrections officers, more support for offenders to turn away from crime, and more prison capacity, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says. “Our Government said we would crack down on crime. We promised to restore law and order, ...1 day ago
- OECD reinforces need to control spendingThe OECD’s latest report on New Zealand reinforces the importance of bringing Government spending under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The OECD conducts country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The 2024 New Zealand survey was presented in Wellington today by OECD Chief Economist Clare Lombardelli. ...1 day ago
- Agreement delivers Local Water Done Well for AucklandThe Government has delivered on its election promise to provide a financially sustainable model for Auckland under its Local Water Done Well plan. The plan, which has been unanimously endorsed by Auckland Council’s Governing Body, will see Aucklanders avoid the previously projected 25.8 per cent water rates increases while retaining ...2 days ago
- Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with GermanyForeign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today. "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...3 days ago
- Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of PlentyThe Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...4 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand China CouncilThank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today. Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...4 days ago
- Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi householdsThe Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...5 days ago
- Government recommits to equal payThe coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says. “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...5 days ago
- Transforming how our children learn to readStructured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...5 days ago
- NZ not backing down in Canada dairy disputeTrade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...5 days ago
- Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable childrenThe rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...5 days ago
- Streamlining Building Consent ChangesThe Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...6 days ago
- Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...6 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...Good evening – Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us. ...6 days ago
- Accelerating airport security linesFrom today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...6 days ago
- Community hui to talk about kina barrensPeople with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...6 days ago
- Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into forceKiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...6 days ago
- Mining resurgence a welcome signThere are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...7 days ago
- Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first readingThe return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...1 week ago
- Government to boost public EV charging networkEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure. The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...1 week ago
- Residential Property Managers Bill to not progressThe coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...1 week ago
- Independent review into disability support servicesThe Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...1 week ago
- Justice Minister updates UN on law & order planJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...1 week ago
- Ending emergency housing motels in RotoruaThe Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...1 week ago
- Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and DubaiTrade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...1 week ago
- Education priorities focused on lifting achievementEducation Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...1 week ago
- NZTA App first step towards digital driver licenceThe new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say. “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...1 week ago
- Supporting whānau out of emergency housingWhānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...1 week ago
- Tribute to Dave O'SullivanRacing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...1 week ago
- Speech – Eid al-FitrAssalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...1 week ago
- Green MP Julie Anne Genter responds after behaviour in the House, florist's accusations
"I can do better," she says, acknowledging the need to work on her de-escalation strategy. ...22 mins ago - If the RBA’s right, interest rates may not fall for another year. Here’s why – and what it mea...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Martin, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University The Reserve Bank is now assuming Australians will see no interest rate cuts this year – and quite possibly none before the next federal election, due next May. That’s ...36 mins ago - ‘Eye watering’ spending, growing debt make up surprisingly generous Victorian state budgetSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University The Victorian budget offered more of the same on Tuesday, with the only change being how the budget papers were packaged. The usual shrink wrap was gone, hinting at savings in the pages ...36 mins ago
- Budgeting service cuts: 'It's like watching a train derail'With some services facing closure after missing out on the latest government funding, there are for some of NZ's most vulnerable. ...37 mins ago
- Coalition demands amendments to government’s deportation bill, as crucial High Court judgement set...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Coalition is demanding extensive amendments to the government’s legislation targeting non-citizens who refuse to co-operate with their removal. In a dissenting report to the senate inquiry into the legislation, the Coalition says it ...1 hour ago
- MP's comments 'bang on' despite negative response from other parties – Te Pāti...Te Pāti Māori is standing by comments made by MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi which other parties have called inflammatory and offensive. ...4 hours ago
- A story of trauma, hope and regaining control, Nayika: A Dancing Girl is soul-stirring dance theatreSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vanita Yadav, Senior Research Fellow, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University Brett Boardman/Belvoir The complex and grappling issue of violence against women takes centre stage in the soul-stirring solo dance drama Nayika: A Dancing Girl. During a dinner conversation ...4 hours ago
- 'Pretty dire' situation for patients as junior doctors strike over pay cutsDisruption to patient care from a nationwide junior doctors strike is bordering on unsafe, a senior doctor claims, despite what health officials say. ...4 hours ago
- How does the drug abemaciclib treat breast cancer?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Ground Picture/Shutterstock The anti-cancer drug abemaciclib (also known as Vernezio) has this month been added to the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) to treat certain ...5 hours ago
- How a filmmaker, a pile of old shells and a bunch of amateurs are bringing our oyster reefs backSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dominic McAfee, Postdoctoral researcher, marine ecology, University of Adelaide Robbie Porter, OzFish Unlimited Around Australia, hundreds of people are coming together to help a once-prized, but decimated and largely forgotten marine ecosystem. They’re busy restoring Australia’s native oyster and mussel reefs. ...5 hours ago
- Official 2023 election result final check done in a few hours, under extreme pressureThe rushed assessment, which failed to identify multiple errors in the official results, would normally take two days. ...6 hours ago
- Curious Kids: what stops meteors hitting Earth and hurting people?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Webb, Lecturer, Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing, Swinburne University of Technology Austin Human/Unsplash How does Earth stop meteors from hitting Earth and hurting people? –Asher, 6 years 11 months, New South Wales Alright, let’s embark on a meteor ...6 hours ago
- From pride rounds to rainbow guernseys, sports can be smarter when it comes to diversity and inclusi...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rory Mulcahy, Associate Professor of Marketing, University of the Sunshine Coast Professional sports organisations regularly promote and develop initiatives to support diversity, equity and inclusion. While sport has the power to change attitudes by sparking conversations about political issues and social ...6 hours ago
- Grand designs? Why many Australian architects say their career makes them unhappySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Naomi Stead, Director of the Design and Creative Practice Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT, RMIT University SORN340 Studio Images/Shutterstock For years there have been suggestions of widespread poor wellbeing among architects. In many ways this is not surprising. It’s well established the ...6 hours ago
- Don’t embarrass the boss
Comment: The weekly Monday post-Cabinet press conference is a useful forum for observing Christopher Luxon and how he is developing into the job of Prime Minister. He attempts to convey the impression of a man of action, speaking fast, delivering memorised National Party strategies in a connect-the-slogans kind of way, ...6 hours ago - Green MP Julie Anne Genter referred to Privileges CommitteeGerry Brownlee referred her to the Privileges Committee over complaints about her behaviour in the House. ...6 hours ago
- Six telling tidbits from the review of vote-counting errors at the 2023 election
Double votes, missing ballot boxes, tired tech and stressed staff: how tick-tallying went astray at last year’s election. Cast your mind back to November 2023, that bleary-eyed post-election period during which we waited, and waited, for a coalition deal to be hammered out. A distraction from the hotel-hopping of our ...6 hours ago - Government begins weekly reporting of school attendance figuresSchools should aim to have 94 percent of their pupils in class every day, David Seymour says. ...7 hours ago
- A ‘blistering’ ‘tour de force’: Australia loves After the Party tooInternational audiences are starting to discover what New Zealand already knew about After the Party. When After the Party aired in New Zealand last year, the response was fast and furious. In his preview for Rec Room, Duncan Greive said it was a “gritty, wrenching and highly confronting” series. By ...7 hours ago
- Iran is gaining credibility in the Muslim world and feeling emboldened. This doesn’t bode well for...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shahram Akbarzadeh, Convenor of the Middle East Studies Forum (MESF), and Acting Director the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University Iran’s leadership has been a direct beneficiary of the months-long war in Gaza. With every missile that Israel fires ...7 hours ago
- ‘Uncanny notes that plague this place’: Hagstone by Sinéad Gleeson, reviewedClaire Mabey reviews the haunting and sexy debut novel from Sinéad Gleeson, who is about to touch down in Aotearoa for a string of live events. When Irish writer Sinéad Gleeson was in Aotearoa in 2018 with her spectacular collection of essays, Constellations, she told me she was working on ...8 hours ago
- Bougainville ‘other avenues’ report ‘sensationalised’, claims MakibaPNG Post-Courier Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba has described the Post-Courier’s front page story yesterday regarding a meeting between Bougainville and national government leaders as “sensationalised” and without substance. The Autonomous Bougainville Government (AGB) had warned it might use “other avenues to gain its independence” should the PNG government “continue ...8 hours ago
- Government on track for increased deficit despite fall in spending – TreasuryThe government books are worsening as a fall in tax outpaces cuts to spending, leaving it on course to post a sizable deficit. ...9 hours ago
- Luxon and Mitchell weren’t mixed up, they were using girl mathsWhere some saw the worst press conference given by the government to date, Anna Rawhiti-Connell recognised girl maths game. Nicola Willis, recently exasperated by comparisons to Ruth Richardson, said she was “a bit sick of being compared with every female finance minister that’s ever been out there.” Some think that’s ...9 hours ago
- Interim Financial Statements Of The Government Of New Zealand For The Nine Months Ended 31 March 20...
The March results are reported against forecasts based on the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update 2023 (HYEFU 2023), published on 20 December 2023 and the results for the same period for the previous year. ...10 hours ago - NZ First MP Jamie Arbuckle, who wanted to keep his pay as councillor pay too, changes his mindJamie Arbuckle, the district councillor who became an MP but decided to keep getting paid for both roles, will instead donate one salary to charity. ...10 hours ago
- Jamie Arbuckle MP – Re: My Position As Marlborough District CouncillorThis is my fifth term as a Marlborough District Councillor, I am passionate about local issues, and I will continue to work hard for my community. ...10 hours ago
- Adding gender to the Human Rights Act – what’s the big deal?Adding gender to the Human Rights Act would simply make the implicit explicit. So why is it so controversial? Paul Thistoll explain. At present, Aotearoa’s 1993 Human Rights Act (HRA) includes sex, marital status, religious belief, ethical belief (meaning a lack of religious belief), colour, race, ethnicity or national origin, ...10 hours ago
- Carmel Sepuloni believed to be contestant on new season's Celebrity Treasure IslandThe new season of Celebrity Treasure Island is due to hit New Zealand screens later this year. ...11 hours ago
- The cost of being: A flatting student who’s saving for more tattoosAs part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, an 18-year-old who’s studying and working in hospo shares their approach to spending and saving. Want to be part of The Cost of Being? Fill out the questionnaire here. Gender: Transmasc Age: 18 Ethnicity: Pākehā/Māori Role: Student, ...12 hours ago
- 'He got it mixed up' – PM backs Corrections Minister despite announcement muddleThe prime minister is backing Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell, saying he "quickly clarified" a confusing media conference announcement. ...12 hours ago
- How the fast-track law could expose future NZ governments to expensive trade disputesSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images Resources Minister Shane Jones has reportedly asked officials for advice on whether oil and gas companies could be offered “bonds” as compensation if drilling rights offered by ...12 hours ago
- Crisis of faith: why Australian women have so little trust in religious institutionsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Gleeson, Associate Professor of Law, Macquarie University Shutterstock The Albanese government is weighing up the costs of delivering an election promise to protect religious people from discrimination in Commonwealth law. Such protections were relatively uncontroversial when included in state anti-discrimination ...12 hours ago
- Terminal lucidity: why do loved ones with dementia sometimes ‘come back’ before death?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yen Ying Lim, Associate Professor, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio Dementia is often described as “the long goodbye”. Although the person is still alive, dementia slowly and irreversibly chips away at their memories and the ...12 hours ago
- Making merry: how we brought Melbourne’s Merri Creek back from pollution, neglect and weedsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Judy Bush, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, The University of Melbourne Adam Calaitzis/Shutterstock I met with a friend for a walk beside Merri Creek, in inner Melbourne. She had lived in the area for a few years, and as we walked ...12 hours ago
- This group rid one Australian river of its privet problem – and strengthened community along the w...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sonia Graham, DECRA Fellow, University of Wollongong Lekali Studio/Shutterstock Privet is a popular garden hedge. It grows quickly and responds well to being pruned. But in natural areas, privet is a problem. Like 72% of weeds in Australia, privet escaped ...12 hours ago
- Australian artists only earn $23,200 a year from their art – and are key financial investors in ke...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Throsby, Distinguished Professor of Economics, Macquarie University Arts companies and individual artists in Australia are supported by government arts agencies, philanthropists, industry bodies, private donors and patrons. However, it is frequently overlooked that a major source of support for the arts ...12 hours ago
- Experts Sign Open Letter To Legalise Drugs In New ZealandHarm Reduction Coalition Aotearoa, a new incorporated society dedicated to ending harmful drug policies, officially launched today, seeks a new fit-for-purpose drug law for Aotearoa New Zealand, rooted in science, experience and evidence. ...12 hours ago
- Politics live: Mark Mitchell, Christopher Luxon face questions after Corrections confusionThe Corrections Minister admits he "muddied the water" after he and the Prime Minister repeatedly provided incorrect information about a $1.9 billion prison spend-up. ...13 hours ago
- Messy press conference prompts correction over Corrections fundingIt took a post-post-cabinet statement to confirm that 810 new beds will be built at Waikeria, writes Stewart Sowman-Lund in this extract from The Bulletin. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. ...13 hours ago
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Luxon didn't display 'quick-footedness' at Question Time yesterday. He asked about the number of ICU beds. Jacinda cut the ground from under him by replying the government had worked hard to ensure the ICU beds were not needed.
So he asked about the number of ICU beds again.
After an interruption by Seymour and a question of the traffic light system . . . he asked about the number of ICU beds again!
SSDD
He’s not the great white hope so many on the right think he is!
Luxon asked stupid questions which gave Ardern the floor to show how on top of the detail she was.
Yes, agreed. The Government Ministers never even raised a sweat. The Opposition had nothing that couldn’t be easily batted to the boundary.
Good,fair analysis on Luxon so far.
He will need to lift his game though.
Does he have that x factor/charisma?-if he does ,he's doing a wonderful job of…concealing..it.
I think he’s been advised to try several personas & the back room analysts will see which ones seem to resonate with voters polled and/or focus groups.
They’ll be looking for opportunities to show:
etc.
Personally I think Sir John is behind most of what Luxon is doing.
That many personas should be a sure fire recipe for….failure.
Key cultivated 'smile and wave'…all that is required…no substance,perception trumps..reality.
No, Key displayed several personas.
Tuff guy “Get some guts”, ordinary bloke who eats hot dogs, smooth charmer of female journos (Tracy Watkins even took her glasses off & batted her eyelids at him in a coffee café interview once), wit, the diplomat, disciplinarian (with Collins, & Paula Bennet, for example) etc
Think about it. These all worked for him for “9 looong years”. 😉
He left when he wanted to go – & before the Nats began to crumple in on themselves because, once Winston Peters won the election for Labour, HE was apparently all National really had.
'get some guts'=tough guy image!
'nearly choked on his hotdog'
Tracey Watkins is his ..age.
lasted 8 years before his 'tank was empty'.
once you can fake sincerity, everything is easy.
U R so (right), sorry, I meant correct.
Ex Wall street traders are not admirable.
He needs to show off his BBQ talents, if any, to the punters.
This is what's missing. Oh, and play down his wealth.
If you've seen the frontman for Hellers Sausages,Leigh Hart…you will realise his doppelganger is Christopher7.
Blazer lol so BBQs are out then?
They will need to find another method of saying who is in and who is out.
Keeping it under his … hat.
He's been struggling in media interviews this morning. Confused about red/orange in Auckland (TV1 Breakfast), waffling on the Reserve Bank (Morning Report).
That doesn't matter much right now, he'll get the poll boost anyway for being new, and politics will be soon on holiday for a few weeks.
The serious long-term issue is "what does this looseness signify?". He seems to think that bluster is a substitute for doing the homework. In reality: he's a beginner, Jacinda's an old pro. If he (privately) understands that, then he can learn over time. But it feels like he already thinks he's "got this".
I wonder who is in his inner circle. Leaders really need advisers who can tell them what they don't want to hear. Not courtiers. (Anyone who told him he was great in Parliament yesterday should be sacked).
It will be “interesting” will it Mr Louisson?, more likely disastrous if there were ever to be a Govt. led by Baldrick, his phone pal, and the parasite class of elite capitalists and finance capital whom they represent.
The bottom 50% of NZers have just 1.7% of the total wealth. We have a nearly 40 year neo liberal state administered by this majority Labour Govt. that has undoubtedly made many decent reforms–while presiding over unacceptable poverty and homelessness and renter exploitation.
So an NZ National Govt. is only going to make things worse for the working class–even Treasury figures over many years illustrate this. Time for journalists to expose Mr Luxon, rather than giving him figurative handys under the table.
I'll see your "The bottom 50% of NZers have just 1.7% of the total wealth" and raise you a He Puapua."
That is the way the betting is done.
Tiger Mountain I do so like the cut of your jib.Keep it up,boyo.The only thing neoliberalism has given the poor is cheap TVs ,I can not recall how many manufacturing jobs ,the likes of which I am only fit for ,have been lost.Would 200000 be close to the mark.
You sort of need to piece it together really, from various academics writings.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rogernomics
If there is an overall repository of how many were sacked/displaced under Roger’n’Ruth I would like to see it.
I worked in the NZ car assembly industry mid 70s to early 90s, and 16,000 jobs were lost there. It was called import substitution–where imported car parts had to have locally produced tyres, batteries, upholstery, wiring looms and glass added to imported CKD metal and mechanical parts. The main product of car assembly was actually jobs on good union wages, that kept South Auckland and Porirua and Thames, Nelson and other communities going well.
Of course Douglas swung a wrecking ball through the provinces as well and people that had secure work in local authorities, infrastructure maintenance, forestry, freezing works, post, rail, telecommunications etc. were on the scrapheap with no serious mass retraining as say the Scandinavians do.
Textiles, clothing, footwear all largely departed offshore to cheaper labour markets.
So yes several hundred thousands sounds a reasonable estimate.
Well if he dose'nt appear to cut the mustard, it wont be through lack of media spin in his favour as shown by a very unbalanced performance view on morning report.
A proponent of "Bill English’s social intervention theory whereby people with “very complex, challenged and messy lives” are identified and supported."
Luxon misses the point that this group has expanded off the charts precisely because of the kind of capitalism he espouses. This Christian gives his cup of water to the bloodied corpses at the bottom of the cliff.
Gruesome image, but very clever metaphorical analogy because that makes it easily memorable.
The analogy reminds me of Question time yesterday we listened to, Gezza.
Luxon was complaining there weren't enough ambulances at the bottom of the cliff like they have in Australia.
Ardern replied that the fence at the top kept down the casualty rate while they trained paramedics to attend the ambulance stretchers. The Australian example called for far too many hearses.
Meanwhile, the business interests running the hotels, tours, and coffee carts at the top of the cliff want the fences removed so visitors can enjoy the view while sipping a $7 latte and hopefully scoffing a sausage roll!
Brilliant Mac1. So true. You are truly a clever sausage on a roll.
More a Burleigh pie man, me.
Can't wait to ask Simon to show me his penny.
Ha!
Ha ha ha ha ha ha!
Oh, Lordy, that's good, Mac1!
Bill English certainly had "very complex, challenged and messy" accommodation arrangement when he was in government. It was "supported" to tune of $30,000/annum by the New Zealand taxpayer, and he was very upset when it was "identified" and questioned in media.
"smooth talking rich man"
I think you are missing the point here.
Both Key and Luxon were not born rich.
They worked hard and became successful in their chosen careers. Success resulted in wealth.
Most New Zealanders respect talent, hard work and resultant success.
Yes Keys father owned a restaurant in St Heliers and Luxons father was an executive at Johnson&Johnson….real…battlers.
What was the restaurant Blazer?
When did he own it?
Where did this story come from?
Speak up and prove something for a change.
I'm waiting…..
Alwyn ,I say Alwyn….its all in his biography by John Roughan.
I don't have a copy 4 you….but you need to understand the way politicians are marketed!
Next ,you'll be telling me Key donated his P.M salary…to charity!
Key's mother also came from a wealthy family of leather merchants in Europe. Plenty of social capital in that state house.
Don't tell Alwyn that Sacha…he'll blow a fufu valve!
We never were quite able to settle that matter, were we…
(Charitable view)
Yes it was settled after the b/s was embedded in urban myth…
He gave a 'portion' of his P.M salary…coulda been $5…he never would be drawn.
So. You think it was in a book you once read but you can't actually tell me where in the book. Is that right?
Sorry but I really don't have the time or inclination to try and track down the details of your claims.
As for your statement that "Next ,you'll be telling me Key donated his P.M salary…to charity".
Why on earth would I say such a thing. If you really think it happened why won't you say it? Come on, be bold. If you think something happened you surely aren't too frightened to say so yourself? I certainly wouldn't make the claim though. If Key never said it, and no one else has demonstrated that he did it I really don't see why I should believe what seems to be a figment of your imagination.
Alwyn,I say AlwynI don't 'think' it was in a book I read.I 'know 100% it was in a book I read.
I don't doubt you do not want to discover the truth and blow that carefully crafted persona of Key that you swallowed ,hook,line and…sinker.
John Key: Portrait of a Prime Minister by John Roughan (goodreads.com)
"I don't doubt you do not want to discover the truth and blow that carefully crafted persona of Key that you swallowed ,hook,line and…sinker."
Now just relax and have a nice cuppa. Then try and explain to us why you believe that Key gave all his Parliamentary salary to charity? That really sounds delusional to me.
I very seldom read pot-boiler biographies of current politicians. I did read Brian Edward's hagiography of Helen Clark but that was an exception and a very disappointing one.
Read Roughan's attempt. Nah. I'll leave it to you.
Alwyn,I say Alwyn….I don't think there is any proof Key donated ANY of his salary…to charity!
What did your mate Roughan say on the matter? Surely you can remember what he said, if anything, on the topic. You seem to regard him as an authority and remember exactly what he said in his book,
Come, let us all know the details. I'm probably like most us and never bothered to read the book. Or any of the other ones in our current crop of Pollies.
Sir Robert Jones on Nationals new shooting…star..
THE DEIFICATION OF CHRISTOPHER LUXON | No Punches Pulled
We dont believe it . But as yuou were fond of finding out about what Cullen said 'excatly'
Key is on record "John Key has vowed to donate "a good part'' of his government pay to charity should he be New Zealand's next Prime Minister."
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/573560/Key-pledges-PMs-salary-to-charity
An interesting aside is that Mps salary includes an amount to 'cover the donations they are expected to make as Mps', rather than them putting down as an expense.
Wasnt a party donation called a charity at some stage , something to do with a round of Golf.
Isn't it interesting how the papers blow up a story to get a more spectacular headline. Then they blame the subject of the story if the headline turns out to be false.
In this story the front page of the paper was pretty much covered by, in capitals and in very large print "KEY:I'LL PAY PM'S SALARY TO CHARITY".
When you read the real story you find it comes back to "National Party leader John Key has vowed to donate "a good part'' of his government pay to charity"
Then you get what he really said "I already donate a good part of the pay I receive as Leader of the Opposition to charities and other good causes. I will continue that practice should I become Prime Minister,'' Key, above, told Sunday News.
Laudable of course but it really doesn't match what their headline claimed does it? Now of course we get those who dislike him pretending that that headline quoted him properly.
The expenses they get is meant to cover the koha they have to put in, or the raffle tickets they have to buy and so on. That isn't the sort of thing Key said he did.
Instead of making that last statement as a question why don't you state it as fact. Then justify it. If you can't don't say it.
I'm sure you wouldn't feel badly done by if I asked something like "Didn't ghostwhowalksnz get a term for drug ….?" Well that is roughly what you are doing here unless you can justify the claim. Either justify it or don't do it.
You seemed to claim that he never said anything like it.
A 'good part' suggest a considerable amount and the headlines are a valid claim
Alwyn,I say Alwyn…that headline was absorbed by a lot of people…even heard a caller to ZB a few weeks ago…stating the b/s that Key donated his salary to charity…
fake news works,especially when you have a dedicated black ops team.
So did he ever donate a dollar to charity….we must trust him,because he said he did!
Wheres blips list of his lies…got to over 400 from memory…'trust John Key….sure ..can't'!
"blip's lies"?
The claims he made were wrong. He claimed that Key had said things that he hadn't. I had a careful look at a sample of the things blip claimed Key had said but when you tracked down the original comment you discovered that blip had got it wrong.
This business about donating all his salary is just like the things blip complained about. He hadn't actually said it, even though people thought he had. I can't be bothered tracking it down but an example IIRC was the claim that he had promised to recover the Pike River bodies. He hadn't. He had said they would take all possible actions that they could do safely, or something like that, but not that they would do it. Little of course has done exactly the same thing.
I'm afraid, for all you true believers, that blip got it wrong. He simply hadn't read what Key really said carefully, and suspiciously enough, and he allowed himself to be fooled because he wanted to be fooled.
Alwyn,I say Alwyn…you ask others for evidence but can't supply any yourself!
You're like the psychic that got hit by a car and said…'I didn't see it…coming'!
Then there was this 'charity'
'
The golfing photo of Oravida owner Stone Shi and Prime Minister John Key was the result of an up to $56,600 donation to the National Party.
We have of course always known about the golf game – John Key has previously said it came from Shi getting the winning bid at a "charity" auction.
It turns out the "charity" was the National Party.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/opinion/patrick-gower/opinion-oravidas-56600-golf-photo-with-john-key-2014032009
Not many commenters on this web site "respect talent, hard work and resultant success."
In fact I would go as far to say they despise it and want to cut down the tall poppy.
No, I definitely respect her talent, hard work and resultant success.
Yes Jacinda has done well if that is who you are referring to. But would you still feel the same if she owned 7 properties?
The Prime Minister wouldn't be the same person.
I hear the liars on social media are putting it about she has more wealth than Luxon’s $21 million housing portfolio.
No I think that is some scam website that reckons Jacinda is worth $24m? Don't think too many people believe that.
A bloke like Graeme Hart hasn't done too bad for himself as an example. I think he left school at 16.
Jacinda's worth more than that.
I'm not interested in the framing that monetises her worth: her "value" is on another plane altogether 🙂
Yes Hart can give thanks to Douglas/Caygill for going behind Langes back and virtually gifting him a state asset….the Govt Printing Office…with multi million dollar contracts.
And there's the thing, Jimmy. You respect him for making money. I look at what you just wrote and ask why he neglected his education.
You look at Luxon and say he's done well for himself. I look at our Prime Minister, Jacinda Adern, and don't even think about money.
Different values, different importances. As Robert says below.
working at a fish&chip shop after school ring any bells.?
Just coming from Morrinsville is a very down to earth upbringing.
Tough town that one.
Tough town?
Its the town in the middle of the most productive dairy country in the world. I would call it affluent as opposed to tough
"respect talent, hard work and resultant success."
'silver spoon,old boy networks,property investment and forex gambling'.
No one's born rich – we're all born…naked.
… and shortly thereafter attempt to cover ourselves in excrement..
Thank you for your reverent aphorism 😈
Yes very true, but some are born in to wealthy families
Some?
Few.
Remuera is a good area to be born!
There are may types of success. Most don't result in wealth – a very narrow selection of them do. Some people are very focused on that narrow range – their success consists of trying to get rich and doing so. Their wealth is not an accidental side effect of their success. Your statement could be rephrased as a tautology – "becoming wealthy results in becoming wealthy".
So what? Being born poor does not give one the right to tell every one else how to behave. Smooth talking bs gets you along way on wall street and air nz.
He has to appeal to 33% of the Voters – Seymour's 17.5% puts them on to the Treasury benches.
Covid exhaustion will be on his side …. How much longer can a Covid Queen rule?
Precisely. Ardern was formidable in the House yesterday – she's certainly got what it takes. But she needs to take a little bit of whatever that is, and use it when she's talking to New Zealanders. She destroyed Luxon's stupid questions yesterday with clear detailed facts. She needs to do the same when outside of the House, and get rid of that horrible perception – together with fake Helen Clark-style smile – that she's talking down to people. If she can do that then moving from Covid Queen to whatever's next Queen will be far, far easier.
Only of there's no crossover between the 33% and the 17.5%.
Maurice for shame. "Covid Queen" Get a life. What do you call Boris then? You make it sound like she enjoys covid!! When she said with sincerity " it is keeping me awake at night."
Doris?
For some reason this just keeps humming through my mind (tiny as it is!)
She keeps her Moet et Chandon
In her pretty cabinet
"Let them eat cake", she says
Just like Marie Antoinette
A built-in remedy
For Khrushchev and Kennedy
At anytime an invitation
You can't decline
Caviar and cigarettes
Well versed in etiquette
Extraordinarily nice
A look at "Upper Room" website https://upperroom.org.nz/ shows what looks like a church. There would be 70+ church goers there. They all appear to be white people so perhaps the church does not appeal to the diverse population of Newmarket, or maybe diverse faces do not appeal to the church, even in Auckland.
They dont use the term 'church' in their branding or even in their signs outside the building in Newmarket.
probably the way Luxon was slyly able to say he 'hadnt been to church in 5 year's, they refer to themselves as a 'fellowship' and do seem to have fellowship meetings in private homes as well as the ones at the 'Upper Room ' itself.
But your comments about the 'diversity' seem spot on .
Its really a version of Tamaki's Destiny church but for upper middle class white people.
Chapeau to the algorithms (or whatever it's called) that summon up the old articles underneath the OP. Recommended reading. The comments are a mixture of prescient and … amusingly wrong.
(Bridges was leader less than 2 years ago? Seems like several lifetimes).
MickySavage doesn't always get his predictions right but he did well on Luxon.
PS Also includes Luxon's first recorded lie as a politician, more than a year before becoming an MP:
"Christopher Luxon says he is not an option for National in the Botany seat".
(NZ Herald, 28 May 2019)
''It will be interesting to see whether the electorate will again suppress its egalitarian instincts.''
What egalitarian instincts?
That went out with union bosses dressed like Soviet government officials. Unlike Muldoon, I was a great admirer of Comrade Anderson… until he instigated a school holiday strike.
Luxon's first day up against the PM was very average. However, I'm not that worried because no matter how bad Luxon is, another year of Labour and it may come down to a stark choice for voters – do you want more of this lot, or do you want to try a pot luck with Luxon?
National really need to get around the table with Winston and work a deal. Winston isn't out of the picture yet. He could mop up voters who can't stand any of the party choices at the moment. All Winston needs do is list the things he stopped Labour doing when he was in coalition.
If Winston is the answer then we really are stuffed. He is a toad and he always has been. In fact he always has been a has been . I remember his Tory flashiness and obnoxiousness from Albert Park in the late sixties/early seventies. He's never changed.
True. But hard times may mean making hard decisions. National may have no choice if Jacinda remains popular. Winston knows if he gets back into parliament, it will be his swansong. Offer him something perky and preferably in the background. He would only be needed for special occasions.
It's a very big ask for him to get back into power, and a bigger ask for him to work with National. But as someone on this site said: ''never burn your bridges.''
ps- I hope he wouldn't bring Jonesy back into parliament. I find that pontificator worse than Winston. Every time I clean my shower head he pops into my mind.
Luxon, and the issue of Luxon, is boring now.
So, this will be your last comment on the guy, then?
Is that correct?
Too bored to respond, Gezza.
A Luxon fluff.
https://bryangould.com/a-luxon-fluff/
Contradiction:
1- A situation in which inconsistent elements are present.
You've misunderstood, Blade.
Luxon is certainly boring and that's something to be talked about, in a resigned, bored kind of way.
Judith was fascinating (with ya, Pucky!) in the same way that watching children play with matches is fascinating, but Luxon is…
… boring!
Nothing wrong with that, many also-rans are boring, it's just, I'd hoped for someone…
… interesting…
So, has Gezza misunderstood?
Repeatedly.
As well, I'm disturbed to read that Luxon has lied already!
Where & how has he lied?
Observer @ 9:48 am.
He may not have been a candidate at the time he said the above. May have been persuaded to stand after that. Hardly proof of a lie.
At least it's not boring.
Your words, at 12. You tend to burble nonsense rather a lot, imo.
Of course that timeline would have been before Jamie-Lee Ross started went out in public with his interesting political attitudes or afterwards?
Before there was a viable National MP and no room for a new National candidate. Or after when the standing MP had no political clothes or political party and National needed an emergency candidate (now the emergency party leader).
Context is always important in a political discussion…
Luxon's certainly boring, but suggestions that he's started off with a lie is quite interesting, imo.
What's interesting is that there's no indication that what he said when he said it was a lie.
But two people posting here want to allege, with no proof, that it was a lie.
2?
Probably 20 (or more).
Hard to be certain…
Do you really think there are 20 different contributors, who are so emphatically Luxon-haters, on any given day to this blog? That seems a bit high to me Robert. There are certainly a few of you but 20 seems to be stretching it.
“2?
Probably 20 (or more).
Hard to be certain…”
… … … …
Oh? That many? So you'll be able to identify & list their post numbers? Please do. I'll be interested to see how many others are making unfounded allegations.
Now I'm thinking, 30? 40?
Who can say.
Many visitors to TS quietly watch and don't say, keen to avoid attracting blatherers and malcontents.
I understand their reluctance.
Gezza @ 2.59pm.
Did you really mean to provide the Morse for O O O O and then add the word Oh. Or is it just an accident?
@ Guyton
Me: "But two people posting here want to allege, with no proof, that it was a lie."
You: "Now I'm thinking, 30? 40? Who can say. Many visitors to TS quietly watch and don't say, keen to avoid attracting blatherers and malcontents. I understand their reluctance."
… … …
You seem to have comprehension problems. You are saying 30 or 40 people have posted here (or want to) with no proof that Luxon lied when he said what he said above?
If they're reading your posts on this thread alone they can't sure can't avoid blatherers.
Clearly no one else is bothering to make such an unfounded allegation because they know they have no proof of a lie. Your pathetic attempts at diversion from being challenged on unfounded gossip and blithering are so transparent I'm embarrassed for you.
Luxon said he turned around Air NZ ,only he believes that!
'Christopher Luxon had big shoes to fill when he became chief executive at Air New Zealand in 2013.
Out the door went "rock star CEO" Rob Fyfe, credited with turning Air New Zealand around after a taxpayer bail-out in 2001, and snaffling numerous awards for best airline in the world. It was praised for improving its financial performance while all about it other airlines were losing theirs.
In came Luxon, who'd spent 18 years at Unilever — a consumer giant with a presence in houses across the globe with its brands like Dove, Rexona, Lipton and Sunsilk'-Stuff.
She certainly is
Still?
Even more so, what will she do now we all wonder…
Wounded bull?
Cornered rat
I was amazed to see when looking at the National party list in 2020 that Luxon was number 61 on their list. A year ago. Great to have good mates, eh?
https://www.national.org.nz/2020-party-list
Meteoric rise!
(but meteors fall 🙂
That may be true but meteors never crash to the ground Robert.
Only meteorites do that.
.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7Rx2PZ7C0c
My take on Key’s popularity was the guys wanted to be like him and the ladies wanted to date him. Given the current controversy over housing wealth and his lack of looks, I think he’ll prove to be low on that magic X factor the population needs so much of from politicians these days.
"ladies wanted to date him"
They did?
Mmmmmmmm…
Tugged their own hair over it.
There's a tradition that says stroking a hunch-back's hunch brings good luck…
There is the one about being shat on by a bird will bring luck.. stupid nonsense.
Taking a hit for the team, Patricia!
I wouldn't mind it, and if my dear mother-in-law escaped the "blessing", I'd be smiling; she'd be ever so grateful; therefore, lucky me! 🙂
That someone as ancient as you appear to be still has a living mother-in-law seems to be a miracle Robert.
Did you do a Charlie Chaplain and, at the age of 54 marry an 18 year old?
Flora's a gem, alwyn, and sharper than you (it seems) – kinder too.
I shook hands with a man who shook hands with Charlie – you?
That I cannot claim Robert.
I did shake hands with David Lange on occasion. Then I counted my fingers.
a friend of mine knows someone (wont say) who has eaten human… in nz no less …
Did you still have…6?
Ha!
Ha ha ha ha ha!
It's been a great day!
I had lunch with Lange once – just a handful of people present. I was very apolitical at the time, yet my overwhelming impression was of a man who was finished with not being his own man, not being able to say what he really wanted to.
I remember asking a few probably very dumb questions and Lange would look regretful, as if he wanted to engage like a normal person but realised he couldn't.
Six weeks later he had resigned. It came as no surprise.
I had breakfast with (at the same occasion as) Don Brash once – he ate crappy, processed cereals (that's all that was on offer – I felt for him – he probably yearned for muesli, with blueberries and probiotic yoghurt – who knows? Bill English was there – he had saussies and eggs 🙂
I am not at all surprised at you feeling that way about him. I met all the PMs between Nash and Bolger with the exception of Norman Kirk. Lange seemed to me to be the only one who didn't really relish the idea that they were PM and they wanted to stay there. I didn't see Palmer during the time he was PM but I wouldn't be that surprised if he had felt the same way while he had the role..
It always seemed to me to be a bloody impossible position to manage. If someone had told me I had to do it I would have come out with the Sherman response. “I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected.”.
Mind you. There was never the slightest chance that anyone would ever want me in the job
I reckon you've got the same chance as becoming PM as Luxon, Alwyn!
Never give up!
Alwyn,I say Alwyn that was nice of you to give them all an audience!
Palmer must have been very disappointed.
Nash! Now that is going back a year or two. What you say about the job is so true; it really does take a rare person willing to do it.
We all have our preferences, but part of me holds back from judging most political people because I know damn well how poorly I'd probably do at it.
He doesn't seem to have wowed anyone with his adlibs, but he can stick to a prepared line about obvious talking points – his particular religious beliefs amongst them.
Maybe he can just be reliable and agreeable, and that might be all National need as a caucus leader at the moment.
Whether reliable sparks joy in the populace is another matter – the last few years have just been cascades of shit around the world, maybe they think National will handle it better. We'll see.
Hopefully there will be a respite in the bile put forth by the nats, in favour of competent opposition. That might be nice.
"A respite in the bile put forth by the nats". BBBB Baby , you just ain't seen nothing yet,oh no, you ain't seen nothing yet……. you ain't been around ,as the song by Bachman Turner Overdrive goes.
lol if he can outdo juco for bile, that would also be impressive.
But if he puts in a solid effort without looking too happy when covid numbers rise, or blatantly leveraging the discomfort and pain of others to knife colleagues in the back, well if he manages all that, National might soar in popularity, reaching the high twenties in no time.
The reason for the change at this time …well more Collins surgical strike against Bridges… was the polling season is over by early december.
That would allow a summer for people to forget about politics or even forget about Luxon
A sensible appraisal….it is far too early to judge his effectiveness, especially in light of an unknown future….he may crash and burn, or equally he may be a beneficiary of 'events'.