Luxon has been Susied on National Radio

Written By: - Date published: 11:04 am, June 22nd, 2022 - 68 comments
Categories: Christopher Luxon, health, Media, national, same old national, the praiseworthy and the pitiful, uncategorized - Tags:

The country is in the middle of a wave of influenza that is putting significant strain on the health system.  And Covid has not gone away.  Numbers continue to be stubbornly high.

National are focussing their attacks on this.  Chris Luxon was interviewed this morning on Radio New Zealand by Susie Ferguson.  His solutions were neatly wrapped up in three bullet points, fast track nurses into residency, stop wasting money on the new Health bureaucracy,  and bring back health targets.

Susie Ferguson delved deeper into these bullet points.  How for instance can we attract more nurses to New Zealand when Australia offers significantly higher wages.  Shouldn’t we also increase nurse wages?

It is here that Luxon started to get unstuck.  He is very good at sounding all managerial on it but get him off his talking points and he flounders.

He claimed that a fast track to residency for nurses was more important than offering them good wages.  They will somehow bypass superior wage offers in Australia and Canada as long as they have certainty about their immigration status.  They are on the work to residency pathway which allows them to enter the country and after spending some time to then apply for residency.  But Luxon thinks it should be straight to residency.

It is here that the interview became interesting. Because Susie Ferguson started to ask him some very pointed questions.

SF – But also they [Australia and Canada] do pay them more, bottom line.  So are you saying that you wouldn’t be pay them anything more?

CL – What we wouldn’t be doing is spending billions of dollars on a health structure that is going to need …

SF – Can we focus on the nurses please.  Would you pay them more money or would you not?  Simple question.

CL – We would stop spending the money building bureaucracy and management in Wellington.  We would put that money into the front line to make sure we improve services, hospitals, Doctors, Nurses, and we get them here.  But we are 4,000 nurses short right now and we could solve this by opening up our immigration settings, making New Zealand attractive to Australia, Canada and other places.

SF – … are you undertaking that if you become leader of the Government next year you will pay Nurses more?

Luxon continued to talk about anything but wage increases for nurses.  The collective sign you heard at this time was the whole country losing the will to live as they waited for Luxon to simply say “yes” or “no”.

He was then asked about tax cuts.

SF – But the thing about this here is that under your proposal thousands of top earners like yourself will get thousands and thousands of dollars as a tax cut so wouldn’t that then pay essentially a chunk of  nurses wages or to put a chunk more money into the health system.

CL – Susie what we are saying is that at the moment we have a Government that is making it up on the fly.  A week out from the budget they put a cost of living package together …

Then about health:

SF – Would you Mr Luxon want to commit to inflationary spending increases for the health system?

CL – Well what we are saying is we would be increasing health spend and education spend each year that I am in Government.

SF – To an inflationary level?  You would match that?

CL – We have been very clear we would increase the budget each and every year in health and education.

SF – Ah but that is not the same thing. Would you match inflation?

CL – What I said to you Susie is we would increase budgets each and every year and what we would be doing …

SF – But if it is not an inflationary level adjustment Mr Luxon then it does mean that it’s going backwards.  So would you fund it to an inflationary level?  Or Not?

SF – We would make sure we have got what we need to deliver the outcomes we want to see …

Luxon then talked about delivery implementation and execution.  He really loves his management buzz words.

The take away is clear.  In power National will allow health funding to dip below the rate of inflation just as it did last time it was in power.

This is why we had sewerage running down the wall in Middlemore Hospital.  It is why the health system needed dramatic and prolonged budget increases to get it functioning more efficiently.

As for the criticism of the new bureaucracy well it will be replacing 21 individual health boards.  I thought that National would approve of this.

It irritates me every time National attacks on health.  The system is large and complex.  To achieve meaningful change requires the application of extra resources over a long period of time.  It takes years to construct buildings and train staff.  Nothing happens over night.

And National’s proposal, to seek out “efficiencies” will only mean price cutting and further undermining of a system that is struggling but still works remarkably well.

Hats off to Susie Ferguson for actually asking the hard questions.  How can tax cuts be implemented but the quality of Government services not be affected.  To the rest of the media please take note.  The country deserves to hear from the major parties what they are proposing and not allow the reality of what they are suggesting to be smothered by corporate speak.

68 comments on “Luxon has been Susied on National Radio ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Matiri 1
    22 June 2022 at 11:24 am

    I heard him too this morning, shame more people don’t listen to Morning Report!

    NB Sewage running down the walls, sewerage is the infrastructure.

    • Ross 1.1
      22 June 2022 at 12:50 pm

      Yeah it does feel good to blame National. Alas the reality is different.

      Raw sewage is leaking down the inside of walls in Whangārei Hospital's medical wing.

      https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/sewage-leaking-into-whangarei-hospital-medical-wings-walls/NQQLYOTQ7ESDYVBY4JA4VYQJFU/

      • Peter 1.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 4:18 pm

        “Raw sewage leaking down the inside of walls in Whangārei Hospital's medical wing?”

        That's the DHB that had Shane Reti on its board for three terms.

        All the while with National MPs for Whangarei and Northland electorate.

        • alwyn 1.1.1.1
          22 June 2022 at 6:24 pm

          Perhaps they did.

          However the report linked to is at the end of last year. Four years into the Labour Government. Sigh.

          Reti was a Ministerial appointment to that Board of course. Appointed by the Clark Labour Government apparently. And he ceased to be on the Board about 15 years ago by the look of his history

          Still you can try and blame him I suppose. Makes you look silly of course.

          • Peter 1.1.1.1.1
            22 June 2022 at 11:14 pm

            Reti, and his years and years of Nat MPs ensured there was no way shit would be down the walls in 2021.

            Suggesting that shit doesn't just suddenly happen if everything is 100% is not blaming Reti. It's simply pointing out that if he and his colleagues were half as brilliant as the hopeless they make the current lot out to be, the shit wouldn't have happened.

      • Louis 1.1.2
        22 June 2022 at 11:36 pm

        "Raw sewage has been leaking into the walls of Middlemore Hospital's Scott building, on top of all the other problems with its buildings"

        https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/353602/sewage-leaking-into-middlemore-building-s-walls

  2. Leighton 2
    22 June 2022 at 11:29 am

    Has Luxon yet done an interview in which he has successfully held his own when asked to go beyond his bog standard talking points about how hopeless/wasteful/"woke" the current government is? It seems that every time he is pushed by an interviewer he ends up taking a position that the vast majority of the electorate disapprove of.

    The difference in aptitude between him and Ardern (who has to answer tough questions much more often) is so profound that it is hard to understand how the polls can be where they currently are.

    • Grafton Gully 2.1
      22 June 2022 at 6:04 pm

      Sure but people confused and disheartened by Ardern's cleverness and grip on the data will, like me find comfort in a seemingly well meaning guy getting interviewed and trying to do his best against point scoring smartypants interviewers. Simple to understand and leaves me feeling cheered up that's what I want, like the "less educated people" in the Reuter's Institute Report 2022.

      "Meanwhile, the proportion of news consumers who say they avoid news, often or sometimes, has increased sharply across countries. This type of selective avoidance has doubled in both Brazil (54%) and the UK (46%) over the last five years, with many respondents saying news has a negative effect on their mood. A significant proportion of younger and less educated people say they avoid news because it can be hard to follow or understand – suggesting that the news media could do much more to simplify language and better explain or contextualise complex stories."

      https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/digital-news-report/2022/dnr-executive-summary

      • Joe90 2.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 6:40 pm

        Luxon gets >$300k pa. For that money, doing his best just isn't enough.

        For that money he should at the very least be well meaning, well prepared, and have a grip on the data.

        Instead, we get an ill prepared, jargon spouting nitwit easily bested by someone well below his pay grade.

        • Grafton Gully 2.1.1.1
          23 June 2022 at 7:14 pm

          Agree with para 3, but these qualities might be appealing if you went through school unprepared in the same class as the prepared and felt shit because of it, clung to easily memorised lines to numb the confusion and learned that charm and cunning can determine pay grade.

  3. pat 3
    22 June 2022 at 11:34 am

    You know you're in it up to your neck when the likes of Luxon is polling as the next PM….the future is bleak.

    • tc 3.1
      22 June 2022 at 12:47 pm

      Totally expected with the media not asking luxon the obvious questions like Susie just did.

      Unlike key luxon can’t boycott RNZ at this point so the owned media compensates with no hard questions and fluff.

      • pat 3.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 6:34 pm

        It appears it matters not whether 'the hard questions' are asked or not…if there is dissatisfaction with how things are under the incumbent (and without doubt , there is) then the (obvious) alternative will benefit, irrespective of their competency.

        A sad state of affairs.

  4. Muttonbird 4
    22 June 2022 at 11:41 am

    When one nurse has residency fast tracked, how many family members come along with that nurse, or is the nurse to be separated from family, indefinitely?

    We simply do not have the infrastructure for another imported wave of cheap labour, plus extended families.

    • Populuxe1 4.1
      22 June 2022 at 12:50 pm

      We do if they're distributed properly. Everyone can't live in Auckland and Wellington. If anything now is a good time with house prices dropping.

      • mpledger 4.1.1
        24 June 2022 at 11:12 am

        The thing is affordability isn't dropping because of interest rates. It's a lose-lose situation. Sellers don't win, buyer don't win (unless the buyers didn’t sell in the same market). And there is a 3 year stand-down for new migrants IIRC.

    • Margaret Costello 4.2
      23 June 2022 at 4:38 pm

      With the present two years work in NZ as a nurse, then apply for residency. The nurse will have the immediate family arrive, sometimes a nurse also. Then marriage, then baby with NZ birth certificate, NZ passport, then Grandparents to mind baby, then with the residency, and experience in NZ in NZ hospitals, often initially Aged care, then Public Hospital experience and study days attended, /CV endorsements are sent to Australia, and the whole family move to Australia via their NZ residency. That was always their endgame. The weather weather and the tropical fruit and vegetable and a large community that their own South Kerulla, India, is one example of the journey, as observed many times by NZ Public hospitals. National/Luxons call to immediate residency, with mean the time until they leave for Australia will be much sooner. Hence very little help with NZ recruitment and retention That is why the immigration of nurses should remain at 2 years, not direct residency IMO

  5. Ad 5
    22 June 2022 at 11:42 am

    +100 Mickey neither Ardern, Hipkins nor Little would turn up to a health debate unprepared with strong brief.

  6. Frank Macskasy 6
    22 June 2022 at 12:25 pm

    "The collective sign you heard at this time was the whole country losing the will to live as they waited for Luxon to simply say “yes” or “no”.:

    A helluva thing to wake up to this morning… Despite her best abilities, Luxon ducked, dived weaved,spun,pirouetted, and dodged her bullet-questions like some super-powered meta-human gifted with super speed…

    Some takeaways from his behaviour;

    1. He's no longer Some rank amateur. He's a fully fledged,well oiled politician.

    2. I doubt his deflecting will work well against PM Ardern next year in the Leaders debates. This kind of equivocation will not go well for him.

    3. Will Nats polling remain at their current level when the public see he can't deliver a straight answer? Will swing voters put up with it?

    If Luxon's party strategists think this is a workable strategem,they are playing a game of roulette. And the House usually wins…

    • Sacha 6.1
      22 June 2022 at 1:25 pm

      I doubt his deflecting will work well against PM Ardern next year in the Leaders debates.

      Why not? He only has to keep it up for 30-60 seconds at most before the format moves on. Just like regular 'news' clips. Voters will focus on his demeanour, not what he says.

      • Hanswurst 6.1.1
        23 June 2022 at 4:37 pm

        Maybe. On the other hand, nobody ever gave Key the sort of treatment that Jack Tame and Susie Ferguson have, so Luxon might find that the manner in which leaders' debates are moderated has also moved on. A style once successful won't necessarily be so forever. Luxon is no better or worse than Key was at the same stage, but it may be a case where the man hath come (again), but the hour is long gone by.

        Then again, he may also win.

    • Patricia Bremner 6.2
      22 June 2022 at 1:58 pm

      Yes he is oily Frank. Slippery and says what he thinks is going to be acceptable. Very shallow coat of paint on any ideas.

      Someone we know is right wing was shocked by his arrogant "It will be great when we win Government and can please ourselves. People are tired of this Government"

      Where is the "Do what the Electorate wants??" Oh that's right, they want the vote only…… after that… we are on our own.smiley

    • Peter 6.3
      22 June 2022 at 4:22 pm

      It'll take more than collective sighs. Go to the local bowling club, say "Three Waters" and listen to what easily outdoes collective sighs.

  7. Ross 7
    22 June 2022 at 12:38 pm

    How can tax cuts be implemented but the quality of Government services not be affected.

    Quite easily I imagine. But don’t worry, National will undoubtedly provide a comprehensive and fully costed economic policy prior to the next election. Just as they did prior to the 2020 general election. That policy was reviewed by independent economists.

    I would’ve thought that those on the Left would be delighted that everyone earning over $14,000 will receive a tax cut under National.The implication that we cannot afford to give the low paid a tax cut is rather sad.

    • Leighton 7.1
      22 June 2022 at 1:20 pm

      Yep, tax cuts for the poor is what this is all about. I'm sure the extra $105 a year that our full time minimum wage earners can expect under National's tax plan will more than make up for the inevitable reduction in public services.

      • Leighton 7.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 1:32 pm

        Interestingly on this point, National is actively trying to deliberately obscure the extent to which their tax plan favors the ultra rich. Their online tax savings calculator does not factor in the effect of abolishing the 39% top bracket, which is part of National's policy. This makes it look like Luxon and his mates will only benefit by the same amount as a "working man" on $78k per year, which is of course complete bullshit.

    • Craig H 7.2
      24 June 2022 at 7:32 pm

      Having spent many hours tinkering with the Treasury tax tool, the lowest bracket is the biggest one in terms of revenue, so it's not surprising nobody wants to touch it.

  8. Sanctuary 8
    22 June 2022 at 12:50 pm

    Interesting meta about Luxon's technique is he uses a debating style very common amongst Evangelicals/creationists – the Gish gallop. Basically, you send out a constant stream of talking points that half and no truths.

    • Robert Guyton 8.1
      22 June 2022 at 1:05 pm

      Gish gallop – much favoured by Fonterra and Dairy NZ fronts-people as well. You "win" the debates, from the crowd's point of view, wherever the crowd is unaware of how Gish gallop works. That is, most crowds.

      • JO 8.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 3:49 pm

        Also much favoured by certain radio 'hosts' who seem to believe that the faster they speak and the more ground they cover, the more people will give up and agree – the Gish Gallop could go with the Goebbels Gavotte – say an awful lot often and fast on as few breaths as possible to minimise pauses for listeners to think, and you'll convince many distracted people to believe you might be telling the truth. Heck, you don't even need to believe it all yourself, just wave your personalised pretension pennant and go for it.

        Sanctuary's great link explains far more than a strong aversion to Luxonspeak:

        A Gish Gallop tries to create the illusion of authority and an incredible weight of evidence by sheer quantity alone, without any quality to back it up. To supporters, the illusion works, but those who disagree with the Galloper’s points often find the amount of repetitive assertions and non-explanations offered tedious to deal with.

    • tc 8.2
      22 June 2022 at 1:07 pm

      Mostly that works as the current crop lack the motivation and skills to de-frock nationals latest emporer.

      Saw Beatson do this to English years ago requiring a yes/no…eventually double dipton caved and told a truth that very few people saw on the old freeview public tv channel.

  9. Bruce Ellis 9
    22 June 2022 at 1:40 pm

    Good post and it was a painful interview to hear. Well done Suzie.

    We also need to remember that keeping Health expenditure up with inflation is not enough as it doesn't allow for rising needs from an aging population and from high levels of immigration. I haven't heard anyone put this point to him.

    • Barfly 9.1
      22 June 2022 at 1:55 pm

      Yeah and no one has noted that medical inflation runs at a much higher % than general inflation.

      • Patricia Bremner 9.1.1
        22 June 2022 at 2:01 pm

        True Barfly.

      • Poission 9.1.2
        22 June 2022 at 2:11 pm

        Medical inflation is a symptom of Baumols cost disease.Wage costs meeting a Pareto curve of 80% of costs.

        https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baumol%27s_cost_disease

        A good test is the increase of costs for vehicle accidents when,accidents and subsequent claims decreased.

        https://www.acc.co.nz/newsroom/media-resources/road-injury-statistics/

        • Nic the NZer 9.1.2.1
          22 June 2022 at 6:34 pm

          This theory is saying despite significant advances in medical outcomes, health care has not experienced labour productivity gains?

          • pat 9.1.2.1.1
            22 June 2022 at 6:48 pm

            How or why would you expect productivity improvement in 'caring' labour….it is a time intensive activity where the outcomes are improved by greater engagement…not conducive to improved productivity.

            • Nic the NZer 9.1.2.1.1.1
              22 June 2022 at 9:03 pm

              If productivity improvement in healthcare means anything it must be related to improving health outcomes. Contrary to the conception your putting across of health care this has been achieved (the improved outcomes over more recent decades) by improvements in health science, not by medical practitioners introducing more time intensive practices. If anything, the privatization of health policies have attempted to reduce the amount of engagement involved in medical practice.

              • pat …
                22 June 2022 at 10:59 pm

                Those improved outcomes have come with increased expectation/demand that impact productivity negatively….we can so we must, irrespective of productivity and the private sector is no paragon, indeed the most privatised healthcare system in the world is also the most expensive in terms of cost to GDP.

                • Poission …
                  22 June 2022 at 11:05 pm

                  The US also has some of the least outcomes in terms of life expectancy etc.see links and data models at world in data below.

                  Very hard to do comparative analysis though.

                • Nic the NZer …
                  22 June 2022 at 11:53 pm

                  I'm unconvinced productivity has any useful meaning regarding health care. I claim this thought experiment demonstrates its not productivity being measured at all.

                  Take NZ and its health care system and measure its level of productivity by some measure (like cost of health care provision per capita). Now imagine we swap NZs population with a much younger population but make no changes to the health care sector. We can even keep the same staff as necessary. What happens to NZs cost of health care provision per capita? Obviously it goes down, maybe by quite a lot.

                  Note this is basically the setup used in Poission's links for some measures which also demonstrates an older population is more expensive to treat.

                  https://ourworldindata.org/financing-healthcare#how-strong-is-the-link-between-healthcare-expenditure-and-life-expectancy

                  In this thought experiment we didn't change the productivity of the health care sector at all. They remained exactly as productive with both populations. So all that was measured was the age of the population by proxy with their health care costs.

                  • pat …
                    23 June 2022 at 8:28 am

                    Yes , a change in demographics would impact demand upon health care however I would argue that does not equate to a change in productivity , but on reflection there are elements of health care where productivity may be increased…e.g currently the home care service provides in home care for many elderly/disabled but it is administered from Auckland and the carers spend unnecessary travel time between clients due to poor logistics planning, accentuated by inadequate staffing levels…the replacement of local health care with helicopter and ambulance transfer to metro hubs is another example…it seems to me that productivity has been sacrificed to reduce investment.

                    • Nic the NZer …
                      23 June 2022 at 1:36 pm

                      "Yes , a change in demographics would impact demand upon health care however I would argue that does not equate to a change in productivity"

                      This is the point of the thought experiment. If this is true then we can't measure healthcare productivity via cost of health care provision per capita, or measures which look like it. The analysis in that link talks about productivity (marginal productivity) but what is being measured may be just increased costs with population aging, and that extending life spans at birth leads to an older population.

                    • Sacha …
                      23 June 2022 at 2:00 pm

                      transfer to metro hubs is another example…it seems to me that productivity has been sacrificed to reduce investment.

                      Not about 'productivity'. Clinical safety demands that practitioners undertake the same procedure a certain number of times in a year. Small population centres cannot offer that for rarer ones.

                      Delivering harm or death more efficiently counts for nothing.

          • Poission 9.1.2.1.2
            22 June 2022 at 7:02 pm

            Its labour intensive and increased health spending moves to a limit (where the laws of diminishing returns occur) such as old age.

            In most countries with market economies, the market for healthcare is only one of many markets competing for the same resources; because of this the prices for healthcare services are affected by productivity changes in other markets. Economic theory suggests that, if the productivity of the healthcare industry increases slower than that of other industries (a probable scenario given that healthcare provision is particularly labour-intensive), then prices in the healthcare sector are likely to grow faster than inflation, and expenditure as a share of income is thus likely to grow (this argument is known as Baumol’s ‘cost disease’). The graph from Culyer and Newhouse (2000) shows that in the U.S., over the course of the 20th century the growth in the consumer price index for all goods and services (CPI) was lower than the growth in the medical consumer price index (MCPI).

            https://ourworldindata.org/financing-healthcare#when-did-the-provision-of-healthcare-first-become-a-public-policy-priority

            • Nic the NZer 9.1.2.1.2.1
              22 June 2022 at 9:57 pm

              This Baumol concept has some pretty fundamental issues being applied herein. For a start we need to find an independent variable relating productivity which measures volume of output and if your comparing across industries then that measure needs to be compatible between those industries. On the other hand with no independent variable for productivity you could just be measuring wages in two industries and then applying a somewhat arbitrary preference for which industry you assess has become more productive.

              As Piero Sraffa investigated a similar concept in his work on 'Production of Commodities by Means of Commodities'. Ultimately he concluded that the value of capital could not be determined independent to the profit level. I'm going to suggest similar issues exist comparing productivity across industries. Productivity becomes particularly difficult to interpret where your not counting numbers of standard widgets or where quality is a factor. The usual fallback is to a price measure but now why should this be independent from labour cost?

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

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

              If we assume a relatively fixed return on capital inside an industry then the price level of an industry isn't exactly independent to the wage rate in that industry basically because all income eventually gets paid as a wage/(or as profits). This is a bit of a problem if your trying to look at how wages compare to productivity, you may simply be measuring the price setting power of the good produced. In terms of the research your referencing this considers only the US CPI vs the US MCPI. Maybe the medical insurance industry in the US has more price setting power than other important goods and as a result medical professionals get paid more.

              The other issue here is the assumption that the medical industry is constrained in its output by some productivity limit. To me this appears to simply be incorrect. If the health budget was enlarged it would provide more health services at least in some areas, this is just a basic fact of health services being rationed. This doesn't imply that health services are performing close to a productivity limit but a somewhat lower budget limit.

              • Poission …
                22 June 2022 at 10:34 pm

                For a start we need to find an independent variable relating productivity which measures volume of output and if your comparing across industries then that measure needs to be compatible between those industries.

                That is the difficult argument as the health sectors argue for wage parity and equity from sectors that do have large productivity gains.If they are arguing for parity with similar sectors in say Queensland,where there is to be a large health spend (funded by coal royalties) then they should also look at the problems in that jurisdiction such as large power hikes (caused by increased coal royalties and increased prices) 20% rent hikes in the last 12 months due to internal migration,cold mouldy uninsulated homes due to cold wet weather.Higher food costs etc.

                Arguing that we need increased funding to retain staff from immigration is weak,as are difficulties at hospitals in winter,with delays to elective surgery,as this would be expected following a pandemic and with a naive population at risk from influenza.

                There may be efficiencies unmasked from a centralized organization,mostly in debt management and administration,then again looking at RCA etc it usually comes at cost plus.

  10. mary_a 10
    22 June 2022 at 3:36 pm

    I listened to Susie Ferguson interview Chris Luxon this morningindecision Wasn't sure if I was supposed to laugh at Luxon's comic value, or cry at the tragedy of his inability to correctly respond to basic questioningcoolfrown

    Will Susie be at work tomorrow I wonder, after beating her head so hard after Luxon's "visit"? Her frustration at his pointless answers was clearly audible to me.

    At this rate, next year's election debates should be entertaining as well as interesting. Ardern v Luxon … the PM will own National's leader. Then there will be Robertson v Willis, same outcome there as well I'd say. Bring it on with the popcorn.

    • Patricia Bremner 10.1
      22 June 2022 at 3:51 pm

      laugh We have a stock of lollies Yep. Bring it on.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 10.2
      22 June 2022 at 4:16 pm

      Yes, the election 'contest' will be no contest if judged solely on the head to head debates.

      Jacinda owned Chrissie in the House today, as did Hipkins with Mercenary Mitch and Grant with Nicola. There’s not a lot of depth in the opposition.

      Unfortunately, I can't see the international economic situation getting any better in the next 12 – 18 months, and the government will inevitably get blamed for the stress this country will be under.

      So it'll be relatively easy for a coat of paint like Luxon to grab headlines, with the aid of a compliant MSM.

      The election debates will be one-sided and entertaining, but are unlikely to determine the outcome of the election. More's the pity.

      • satty 10.2.1
        22 June 2022 at 4:30 pm

        Agreed. Especially, food prices and – for all those petrol-dependent / addicted car drivers – petrol prices will have a bigger impact on the election than some election debates.

      • peter sim 10.2.2
        22 June 2022 at 9:07 pm

        Well put and apposite.

  11. georgecom 11
    22 June 2022 at 10:38 pm

    moving nurses to the same status as doctors will HELP the nursing crisis to some extent. So will paying nurses more. So will training more nurses in NZ. What Luxon says won't solve things in itself.

    As for Health NZ, Luxon is saying its a waste of money. A big part of the budget allocation was wiping DHB debt, that debt accumulated during the last National Government. So his solution is scrapping HNZ and keeping DHB's in debt? Perpetuate the same ongoing problems. Continue with DHB's in debt and never clearing that debt.

    As for waiting time targets, how will that solve things. If there are 10 people in the door at an ED probably easy to meet a target. If 510 people then it gets a whole lot harder. Achieving targets requires funding and resources to meet targets.

    9 years of a previous National Government saw DHBs significantly under funded and under staffed. No commitment from Luxon to provide that funding and staffing, not even a commitment to finding increases meeting inflation. Essentially sounds like a rehash of the Key years.

    • Tony Veitch (not etc.) 11.1
      23 June 2022 at 5:09 am

      It is a 'rehash' of the Key years. There's no original thinking in the entire Natz party.

      As if a number (target) on a piece of paper will somehow solve wait times! The more so when Chrissie failed to give a commitment to funding keeping up with inflation.

      Under a Chrissie Luxy government we'd be right back in the Colman (sp?) era of millions needing to be cut from DHB budgets.

      Oh happy times ahead.

  12. RP Mcmurphy 12
    23 June 2022 at 8:56 am

    cut the flim flam. the health department is in need of repair because the nationals party broke it into twenty parts so they could say it wasn't working and then sell the parts off to someone who could ostensively fix it.

  13. Keith Christie 13
    23 June 2022 at 5:33 pm

    The problem that Luxative brings is that a lot of people will support him because he is not that nasty Labour lot or too cringe worthy like Collins or whoever. He can be as dimwitted and contradictory as he likes and will still get a lot of sheep following.

    A friend of mine went to a rally of his here in Nelson a couple of months ago. A guy in the audience got up and ranted about all this treaty and Maori stuff. The crowd went rah rah and cheered. Luxative said this is right though he was learning Te Reo himself. And the crowd went rah rah and cheered. A very similar thing happened with environmental issues. All I can say is God save us.

  14. Bryan 14
    23 June 2022 at 6:07 pm

    And why is there this pressing need to pay nurses in DHB's/Health NZ even more.

    When the dispute over backpay of the historic pay equity deal is resolved then from March 2022 a RN with a three year degree will start on $66.5K and be on $90K base salary after completing four years service topping out at $95K base salary after 6 years service [60% + of RNs employed by DHB's are now at the top of automatic scale] with another bargaining starting I believe in October 2022.

    https://www.nzno.org.nz/Portals/0/Files/Documents/Groups/Health%20Sectors/Pay%20Equity/2022-04-08_Proposed_Nursing_Pay_Equity_Settlement.pdf?ver=SKqeoMtyWE8zKrrlFSiYYw%3d%3d

    • pat 14.1
      23 June 2022 at 6:14 pm

      Apparently the pay in Australia is around 30% higher…and we are effectively the same market….whether that makes any difference I'll leave to you to decide.

      • Bryan 14.1.1
        23 June 2022 at 6:31 pm

        A true genius, however I will decide when you produce more than a hearsay figure.

        • Bryan 14.1.1.1
          23 June 2022 at 6:51 pm

          https://www.nswnma.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/PHS-calculator-2021.pdf

          oh dear, apparently, my math for the NSW RN pay step after 6 years service translated into $NZ puts it 2% ahead on base salary or with the extra step at year 8 in NSW 12% ahead on base salary.

          • pat 14.1.1.1.1
            23 June 2022 at 7:46 pm

            Apparently your math is lacking

            NZ award reg nurse 6 years experience DHB NZD 75,132
            NSW reg nurse 6 years experience AUD83928 (or 92000NZD) …your link.

            • Bryan 14.1.1.1.1.1
              24 June 2022 at 11:58 am

              Apparently you do choose to ignore the rates that have been negotiated and agreed by the parties [provided in the link] as part of the historic pay equity settlement which will be effective from March 2022.
              NZNO and PSA are not disputing these rates but will not ratify at this point in time because of a dispute over prior undertakings that were given over backpay of the pay equity settlement to late 2019. In the journey to resolving this disputed issue on 13/06/2022 all parties were in mediation in the Employment Relations Authority.
              Feel free to remain oblivious to real world events.

              • pat …
                24 June 2022 at 12:20 pm

                Speaking of oblivion to real world events….if you think that NZ nurses are not and will not continue to move to Australia for greater pay and better conditions I would suggest it is not me with the delusion….however in thye grand scheme of things it matters not what you or I think but what the nurses themselves think…and clearly that is pay and conditions in Australia are better, and they would know.

                “An advertisement by a recruitment company in Australia calling urgently for experienced emergency nurses in regional New South Wales offers new recruits a A$7500 ($8280) “sign-on bonus”.

                “[That’s] just to sign on the bottom line. Add to that free accommodation, free flights, support to get education and increase your skill and knowledge and experience. New Zealand at the moment cannot compete with that.”

                A doctor who has worked in the sector for more than 10 years said he knew of around 10 nurses – a mix of colleagues and friends – who had left New Zealand for jobs in Australia over the past three months.

                One nurse, who the Herald agreed not to name, said his pay increased 30 per cent when he moved to Australia earlier in the year. Better pay was one of several reasons why he moved.

                Pay slips seen by the Herald showed the nurse was paid $39.80 per hour in New Zealand per hour and A$47.37 in Australia. He said another bonus was that a small part of his salary was exempt from tax.”

                https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/nurses-broken-sector-faces-thousands-vacancies

  15. Bryan 15
    23 June 2022 at 6:50 pm

    https://www.nswnma.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/PHS-calculator-2021.pdf

    oh dear, apparently, my math for the NSW RN pay step after 6 years service translated into $NZ puts it 2% ahead on base salary or with the extra step at year 8 in NSW 12% ahead on base salary.

  16. JustMe 16
    24 June 2022 at 3:25 pm

    For almost 40 plus years the NZ National Party has beaten the same Blame Game Mantra Drum to the point of nausea

    That is they will never stop beating a repetitive mantra that truly needs to be consigned to the past but National just DON"T GET IT i.e figure out how to move with the times and reality.

    Their best approach to matters is to blame everyone else but the faces staring back at them in the mirror of their feeble lives.

    They now have a leader that has resulted in them scraping the bottom of the barrel when it comes to leaders. Their current leader is one John Key put forward and he(Luxon)has the foul stench of Key even when it comes to his appearances in the media and his 'beating of an outdated National Party Mantra Drum'.

    More than 20 years ago I worked with Jim Bolger's cousin who was a 'true blue' National Party supporter. He kept up the beating of the National Party Blame Game Drum to the point that I asked him if there was ever a policy in a National government that he didn't agree with. He would give reason for the policies of a National government by blaming a previous Labour government for all the woes in the world.

    It made me think that whilst this and previous Labour governments were not perfect and is the human frailty of life make mistakes that National and their supporters deem themselves as being incapable of making mistakes and therefore taking responsibility and accountability for whatever mistakes they have made whilst in government.

    This inability by National to take responsibility and accountability is what renders them, in my opinion, as un-electable at say the next election.

    • Drowsy M. Kram 16.1
      24 June 2022 at 5:57 pm

      This inability by National to take responsibility and accountability is what renders them, in my opinion, as un-electable at say the next election.

      Yep, no acknowledgement or repudiation of past mistakes. Imho politicians are not inherently untrustworthy, but some are (considerably) less trustworthy than others.

      Revealed: Trust in politicians at lowest level on record
      When IPPR asked the question in May this year [2021], just after the Greensill scandal, a clear majority (57 per cent) said they thought politicians were ‘out for themselves’, suggesting that distrust in politics had already become the norm.

      This new norm – voters' low expectations of (self-serving) pollies – will suit some more than others.

      Trust is political [9 February 2022]
      Altogether, in principle, trust is political and, in practice, trusting is a political experience.
      …
      Trust as a political game of allegiance and alliances is perhaps most evident when we look at the so-called dark sides of trust and its, at times, foul relationship with power (Möllering, 2019) in organisations (Skinner et al., 2014) and across multiple levels.
      …
      In general, in as much as trust is an attitude with behavioural consequences that actors can actively promote or prevent, in themselves and others, trusting is a manifestation of power and ultimately a political choice – a vote.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    Skeptical Science
    15 hours ago

  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    16 hours ago

  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    17 hours ago

  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    19 hours ago

  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    20 hours ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-19T23:19:34+00:00