National losing the middle?

Written By: - Date published: 8:23 am, October 28th, 2014 - 133 comments
Categories: housing, john key, national, workers' rights - Tags:

In its first term, National was very careful to be incremental – Key hung to the middle, chipping away carefully at workers’ rights without doing anything dramatic.

Having gained the public’s trust by continuing (outside the House) to be a clown they’d like to have a drink with, they went with one big hit with Asset Sales in the second term, but snuck in Charter Schools and started moving more on their hidden right wing agenda (one covered on this site before the 2008 election).

Now, with almost a majority in their third term, and enjoying a weakened opposition from Labour’s fractures, they’ve got bold.

Selling off State Housing wholesale, at the State’s expense is, as John Armstrong says, ideology for ideology’s sake.

It makes less economic sense than Bill English’s claim that council planning is the major cause of inequality, it will deprive the poor of housing, and weaken society’s fabric. It would be one thing to sell the housing to the social sector and build new, but Bill intends to sell to anyone, and take the money and run to keep their lowered taxes for the rich.

They’re seeking to undermine collective bargaining and remove tea breaks, to try and finally destroy the unions who are so vital for workers pay and rights.

All this while they’re still dealing with Dirty Politics, and the revelations of their undermining the media, the fourth estate.

Perhaps this is because they can see that Dirty Politics will undermine them and they need to get through as much as possible in their 3rd term? Move the goalposts and leave the next government with more than it can undo?

Ultimately they know from the likes of One’s Vote Compass that people’s beliefs lie more with the left, so they always have to beguile with false economic competence.

But the economy’s already not doing as well, the deficit is widening, the rock star is running out of puff.

But how can we keep them in check for the next 3 years?

133 comments on “National losing the middle? ”

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  1. just saying 1
    28 October 2014 at 8:49 am

    …without doing anything dramatic

    …That impinged on the immediate and medium-term safety and comfort and freedoms affecting you and yours, Bunji, – I’m sure they didn’t.

    But for a good 25% of us they did. We exist Bunji. Stop erasing us.

    • Bunji 1.1
      28 October 2014 at 10:23 pm

      I’m not saying they didn’t do damage, but did it in a way that didn’t scare the horses. as it were. They keep working by marginalising (and doing real damage to) some, but leaving the mass undeterred, even as their rights are slowly chipped away at too.

      I’m hardly agin you. No need to get personal.

    • AmaKiwi 1.2
      30 October 2014 at 3:46 am

      35%

      Labour 25% + Greens 10% = 35%

  2. BM 2
    28 October 2014 at 8:50 am

    I don’t see the losing the middle bit?

    State housing is not middle
    Unions are not middle.

    • karol 2.1
      28 October 2014 at 8:57 am

      Do you really think middle NZ are that callous and uncaring about the declining circumstances of the least well off in NZ?

      Do you really think the declining circumstances in work, housing and daily living of the least well off will not impact negatively on the lives of middle NZ?

      • BM 2.1.1
        28 October 2014 at 9:03 am

        Do you really think middle NZ are that callous and uncaring about the declining circumstances of the least well off in NZ?

        People have become a lot more self focused especially with the Americanization of kiwi culture.
        The old socialist ways of doing things died in the 1970s.

        Just thinking about how attitudes have changed I’d say rugby would have played a big part in NZ previous socialist structure.

        Kids got to mix with other kids from all sorts of backgrounds as well as learning the value of team work.

        It certainly is something that is lacking these days

        • Tom Jackson 2.1.1.1
          28 October 2014 at 9:09 am

          Well, the Americans have become less so in recent years.

          • BM 2.1.1.1.1
            28 October 2014 at 9:13 am

            Yeah, but they were way out there on the right, moving towards the center is a good thing for the US.

            • Colonial Rawshark 2.1.1.1.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 11:20 am

              The US is NOT moving to the centre lol! Unless you count tear gassing black citizens and international journalists “the centre.”

              And let’s not get started with the wars of empire, which we are about to join.

            • Tracey 2.1.1.1.1.2
              28 October 2014 at 12:09 pm

              is that what makes you self centred and unrelenting in posting un verified information as fact?

        • karol 2.1.1.2
          28 October 2014 at 9:16 am

          Having grown up around rugby clubs, in a rugby household back then, it was hardly a “socialist’ culture.

          There was still a lot of dismissiveness of low income workers.

          • BM 2.1.1.2.1
            28 October 2014 at 9:27 am

            Certainly there were wealthy clubs and poor clubs.

            But there was also middle clubs where there was a mixture of everything.

            You’d get better off kids mixing with poor kids and therefore better off parents mixing with poorer parents.

            There’s now a complete disconnect to the different layers of society, peoples perceptions are based around what they see in the media which as you know can be far from factual.

            • karol 2.1.1.2.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 9:35 am

              True. My father was middle class professional, and we mixed with families of tradesmen, etc. via my father’s sports clubs, including rugby, and with families of school friends and in my neighbourhood.

              But my father was still disparaging about low income factory workers, and had a very capitalist world view.

              It was not socialism. It was more an ethos of mixed welfare state capitalism.

              • Chooky …
                28 October 2014 at 10:19 am

                well I have to say NZers have different experiences …and maybe the rural sector was different because people depended on each other

                …..both my parents came off farms ( which had been in their famiies for generations )and they went to State schools….and my Father was a good rugby player…. I was never brought up with any feeling of superiority towards workers or racism or sexism….in fact my father worked on the railways and in the freezing works as well as becoming a fisherman…and he worked the farm…both my parents were Labour socialists …in their families were a physicist PhD and teachers and policemen and farmers…i think my experience would be the experience of a lot of old rural NZers…i could never understand snobs…in fact i was brought up to think the snobs and sexists and racists and property developers were uncouth…we largely took people as we found them….recognising that some were not so well off and needed a helping hand…we also recognised that some were the author of their own misfortune….eg booze( today it would be drugs)….and this could happen to both the wealthy and the poor

                …while I was not brought up with sexism or racism or class snobbery consciousness….i recognised it was around…just not in my immediate sphere

                • karol …
                  28 October 2014 at 10:28 am

                  My background, growing up in a mixed class suburb of Auckland, and attending state schools, was very mixed. My parents attitudes often seemed contradictory to me, resulting in endless arguments in my late teens and early 20s.

                  My father wasn’t a snob, was very helpful to all kinds of people, and wasn’t very much into material possessions. He was a member of the local working men’s club where he spent quite a bit of his time. We mixed with a whole variety of people from different backgrounds.

                  Yet, he was pretty right wing in many of his views – was a Muldoonist. He mixed with working class men, but was disparaging of unskilled manual workers, especially Maori and PI people. He mixed with Maori and PI people, but preferred them if they behaved according to his perceived Pakeha standards.

                  I suspect he was like a lot of Kiwis of that time. It wasn’t some left wing paradise, but there was general acceptance of many fairly social liberal views and practices.

                  • Tom Jackson …
                    28 October 2014 at 10:35 am

                    You middle class pseudo lefties are too much, Karol. 😉

                    My dad was a manual labourer and a communist! 🙂

                    • minarch …
                      28 October 2014 at 12:24 pm

                      My great grandfather joined the International Brigades in Spain,

                      While my great-grandmother ( and infant grandfather ) stayed home and threw flower pots @ Oswald Mosley !

                  • Chooky …
                    28 October 2014 at 10:46 am

                    @karol…yes i recognise the type….my Father had Maori ancestry and was very proud of it….New Zealand certainly was a mix…and increasingly there was intermarriage between Maori and Pakeha which broke down racism and class snobbery imported from Britain

                    …. there was definitely sexism out there ….women had to be careful where they went at night and who they mixed with as teenagers …there were horrible rapes and murders

                    …but my feeling was that sexism and sexist values sprang directly or indirectly out of Old Testament Christianity….luckily for me NZ was pretty secular and my parents were not very religious …or at least took the fundamentalist Church goers of the times with a healthy dose of skepticism and critical thinking….liberal New Testament Christian values were accepted as being good and worthy …..my Mother was a fan of Lloyd Geering and Rachel Carson

                    • karol …
                      28 October 2014 at 11:02 am

                      Well, when I look at my family history, it was also a mix of middle and working class, even before my grandparents and great grandparents came to NZ.

                      Two of my Scottish grandparents were from Scottish working class families and very much into egalitarian principles. They moved up into the middle classes after coming to NZ.

                      The other side of my family, back in the UK included a very middle class line, plus a working class line – and that included campaigners for the poor and working people.

                      NZ tended to be colonised by that kind of class mixture.

                    • Chooky …
                      28 October 2014 at 12:01 pm

                      agreed

            • Tracey 2.1.1.2.1.2
              28 October 2014 at 12:11 pm

              next you will tell us cricket was an egalitarian game.

              did you never hear how rugby players and admin spoke of league players

        • Tom Jackson 2.1.1.3
          28 October 2014 at 10:24 am

          That’s part of it. Another is cultural fragmentation. Everyone used to watch the same news broadcasts from necessity (there was nothing else on). Increased media variety has caused a small number of people to become hyper-informed compared to, say, 1970, and a larger number of people to become very uninformed about politics and current events.

          Democracy only really works with a single public agora where issues are discussed and defined, and when even those who don’t care have to walk through it on a consistent basis. There is zero prospect of that returning – the internet is a series of echo chambers.

          • BM 2.1.1.3.1
            28 October 2014 at 11:36 am

            I completely agree, every one’s doing their own thing now.

            I blame the interwebs .

            Knowledge is bad, ignorance is bliss.

            • Tracey 2.1.1.3.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 12:14 pm

              no, everyone isnt doing their own thing now. some are and they tend to be white middle and uper classes…

            • minarch 2.1.1.3.1.2
              28 October 2014 at 12:26 pm

              “Knowledge is bad, ignorance is bliss.”

              straight from the ministry !!

        • Draco T Bastard 2.1.1.4
          28 October 2014 at 10:41 am

          EDIT: That’s weird – the whole comment disappeared despite the comment still being here.

          The old socialist ways of doing things died in the 1970s.

          Nope. Through the late 1990s and early 2000s and with them went any hope for our future as capitalism will now destroy everything as it always does.

          [lprent: Don’t ask me. We have been known to hit the wrong button on the odd occasion (trash, unapprove, spam), but we usually say why commentators are finding their comments disappearing (except for first timers).

          Almost all of the time it is a problem on the client side, just like the double and triple bounces are (I finally figured out what has been happening with those). ]

          • Draco T Bastard 2.1.1.4.1
            28 October 2014 at 4:35 pm

            Oh, I don’t think it had anything to do with you guys. It’s like the server got the request post a comment but didn’t receive the actual comment. So, yeah, does actually sound client side now that I think about it.

      • Sabine 2.1.2
        28 October 2014 at 9:43 am

        Yes, Karol they are. As long as they have theirs, i.e. still manage to service their mortgage, the payments on the 4 wheel drive for mum and the nice Holden/Ford/Audi/insert your type of car on finance for dad, still manage to go to the doctor and dentist, as long as they can keep up appearances they will not give a flying poo about those that are going to fall off train or have already fallen off.

        In fact, they will bemoan the bad decisions those mothers/fathers took having children they can’t afford, they will claim that having a TV, a car, and a fridge is a sign that the poor ain’t poor – or at least not as poor as the untouchables in India – and as long as the poor still have a phone – on prepaid, a car – without warranty and rego, cause to expensive, and a fridge – albeit empty, they will claim that there is no poverty in this country.

        Middle NZ has giving the finger to NZ, and they will only cry when they will loose their “PAID” tea breaks. They will only cry when their mortgage rates go to a point where they can;t afford to pay anymore, at that stage however it will be too late for all.

        the blonde Orate housewife, mother of three, driving a gas guzzling Keeping the wife safe type of Humvee, really believes that the mothers and fathers on the benefit have taken wrong decisions. They should not have kids they can”t afford. They should drive a smaller car. They should not go to eat at MacDo’s. They should not go to Rainbows End for a birthday etc etc. Never does she once realise in her righteousness that she is one accident, one job loss away from being one of those mothers that made a bad decision by having three children that she could never afford on one salary. They are righteous, they are fundamentally opposed to helping people in distress, they are selfish, and that is what they have voted for.

        Time to take of the rose colored glasses Karol. The NZ you dream off only existed because Labour had guts and courage. The current left has neither.

        • vto 2.1.2.1
          28 October 2014 at 10:07 am

          jeez that is one hell of a lot of assumptions about some people.

          how do you know they all think that way Sabine?

        • vto 2.1.2.2
          28 October 2014 at 10:09 am

          and what does being “blonde” have to do with anything?

          Eh?

          or do you base your opinions on the colour of people’s skin and hair?

          wtf you on about?

        • Tom Jackson 2.1.2.3
          28 October 2014 at 10:26 am

          M. Piketty has shown that their situation is becoming more precarious.

          • Colonial Rawshark 2.1.2.3.1
            28 October 2014 at 11:23 am

            Just look at the US. Plenty of the middle class US$40K pa set being made redundant, and having to rejoin the workforce as the minimum wage US$20K pa set. If they can get a job at all.

            This is the new normal of the extractive oligarchic state.

            • Chooky 2.1.2.3.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 12:04 pm

              @CR….you have to wonder if oligarchies learn anything from history…it is only a matter of time imo before ordinary Americans say enough is enough….and rise up

              • Draco T Bastard …
                28 October 2014 at 1:40 pm

                you have to wonder if oligarchies learn anything from history

                No, they don’t as any reading of history will show. They always, always, destroy the society that they exist in by their greed for money and power.

              • b waghorn …
                28 October 2014 at 6:07 pm

                Can you imagine the carnage when they do rise up with the amount of guns floating round

              • AmaKiwi …
                30 October 2014 at 3:51 am

                The US has become a fear culture.

                Frightened people strike out in anger.

        • JeevesPOnzi 2.1.2.4
          28 October 2014 at 11:00 am

          I have to agree.

          I just have to.

          I see and engage with them all around me. Among friends, acquaintances,their friends, colleagues…. Ignorance is their bliss.

          The difference between the middle class and the poor is little more than some bad luck.

          A car accident- a very sick child- redundancy- a spouse’s affair- or any other derailer-

          Your cashflow stops- Your credit card interest goes through the roof- your mortgage holiday comes to an end- you get a fine for no rego-
          You spend 40 hrs a week looking for work (like its your profession-yes)
          THat’s if you’re not still sick
          You sell the car to pay the most critical debts
          The bank forecloses- sells in a depressed rural market- you end up with $50k to show for 20 years in your home.
          Fair enough- you are now debt free and cash richer than you’ve ever been- if you discount your mental state and the stress you and your family have been through.
          And you start again- in a rental-looking for a job, and again consider that leaving your partner and kids to work in Aussie is a viable option, or getting a bedsit in a NZ city, or holding a Stopsign by the roadside- but you also realise that very soon you’ll be at the end of something magical and entering into something called reality for those less fortunate.

          Unless lady luck happens to deal you an Ace…..

          And only those who have suffered it really believe it.

          • Colonial Rawshark 2.1.2.4.1
            28 October 2014 at 11:25 am

            Many many stories like this. For such people working until 70 or 75 will be the new reality. If they don’t break down first.

            Thanks for lifting the retirement age, Labour.

          • Chooky 2.1.2.4.2
            28 October 2014 at 12:05 pm

            +100 JeevesPOnzi

        • Murray Rawshark 2.1.2.5
          28 October 2014 at 10:21 pm

          +1 Sabine.
          Sometimes generalisations are quite useful.

      • Malcolm 2.1.3
        28 October 2014 at 11:30 am

        I’m with you on this one karol. I always tell people who push the right-wing world view that they need to realise one important thing: It puts a real kink in your day when you have to step over people who are starving in the gutter!

        I’ve worked in Brazil, where the disparity between the haves and the have-nots is pretty dramatic. The place is a really good illustration of what happens when you allow social inequality to get out of control (not that they’ve ever had it there). The last thing I want is for NZ to head down the same path.

        • Murray Rawshark 2.1.3.1
          28 October 2014 at 10:25 pm

          Brazil is getting better and will keep doing so as long as the Tucanos don’t grab the presidency again. Aotearoa is getting worse and will keep doing so unless something radical happens, like Mana getting a dozen or more MPs. Or a revolution, but I won’t hold my breath. Aotearoa and Brazil could well have very similar societies 20 years from now.

    • karol 2.2
      28 October 2014 at 9:24 am

      By the way, the “middle” referred to in he front page graphic, is not about what you are referring to here.

      “Jokers to the left, clowns to the right, suck in the middle with you”

      • just saying 2.2.1
        28 October 2014 at 9:49 am

        Was the “suck” a typo or a joke?

        It’s weird, that song has been going round in my head for days. Because I have managed to get myself stuck with a group in the middle where I don’t belong, and I’m in the process of bailing out.

      • Bunji 2.2.2
        28 October 2014 at 10:28 pm

        To be fair, I had trouble coming up with a picture for “middle”.

        Although Key is certainly a joker on the right, and some of the Labour caucus have been clowns… (although they’re not really to the left of me…)

  3. karol 3
    28 October 2014 at 8:53 am

    And this from RNZ Morning Report this morning about the increasing numbers of people in Auckland living in caravan parks because they have nowhere else they can afford to live.

    Penny Hulse puts the responsibility ultimately at the government’s door. She says Auckland Council have been doing what they can and are monitoring the situation closely. But the last local government amendment bill removed social welfare from council responsibility.

    The mention of Wiltshire Village at the bottom of the RNZ article is odd. It’s a retirement village. So while it’s not desirable for elderly people to be homeless, it has nothing to do with housing for the young families that are currently living in camping grounds.

    • hoom 3.1
      28 October 2014 at 9:29 am

      Its a very important point that National has messed with the Local Govt Act making clear that Local Councils are not supposed to be providing housing for poor people.

      Especially in context of Blinglishes’ bogus blame of Councils.

      Was quite impressed with the guy from I forget which organisation but one of the private providers who the Govt is trying to dump this stuff on, basically was not impressed & wishing that Govt would actually step up to the plate.

    • boldsirbrian 3.2
      28 October 2014 at 9:54 am

      The war over the provision of social housing continues throughout New Zealand. Government abdicating responsibility, and Local City and Regional Councils also considering abdicating responsibility.

      Auckland City does have an appalling record on the provision of social housing. And the need for more is both evident from the Morning Report, and from any rudimentary analysis of demographics over the coming decades.

      But the current battle over social housing is now being fought in Hamilton.
      Right now. This week.       What happens in Hamilton will likely have ramifications for the rest of New Zealand. A small council of right wing nutters will influence New Zealand policy in more ways than their tiny brains can understand.

      Make no mistake. Housing is the main issue that should be concerning parties of the left. Housing is the main problem affecting the growth of poverty. It overshadows other issues such as living wages, lack of jobs etc, that are also extremely important.

      In ALL areas of New Zealand, there is an urgent need to grow the stock of available social housing including pensioner housing.

      The Hamilton City Council is currently doing (or has already done) secret deals to sell their entire stock of Pensioner homes.

      344 units currently undervalued at an average of only $70000 each. And that they intend to sell with a discount! Rumoured values are that they will sell them all at an average price of $35000 to $40000! The council, just really do not want to have anything to do with the poor (They are also passing legislation to get rid of the homeless being visible in the Central City)

      The Council is totally heartless and without compassion. And throwing away millions of dollars simply to get quick money to fund the Mayor’s legacy project of beautifying the Waikato River, is just simply adding insult to injury.

      The recipients of this gift will be “worthy” organisations such as the Catholic St Vincent de Paul group and the Baptist Church wanting to work with Habitat for Humanity. These organisations do NOT have the interest of those needing social housing. If they did have they would buy additional units now to add to the stock. That they are only purchasing them now is simply because the Right Wing council is effectively encouraging them to buy.

      What hope is there for social housing when the Government and City Council are putting up their hands saying “Not Us”. And other social housing providers (such as St Vincent de Paul and Habitat” will now put up their hands and say they are already doing a lot.
      But they will have done nothing to help with the growing need for housing.

      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      Rally against the sale of Pensioner housing;
      Thursday 30 October Midday,
      Garden Place, Hamilton
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      .

      • karol 3.2.1
        28 October 2014 at 10:30 am

        It sounds like Hamilton has a right wing council that is doing the government’s bidding.

        Any council that tries to go against that will have a battle with Key’s government on their hands.

        • Draco T Bastard 3.2.1.1
          28 October 2014 at 11:16 am

          It sounds like Hamilton has a right wing council that is doing the government’s bidding.

          I’d say that any right-wing council is an extension of the National Party.

          • tc 3.2.1.1.1
            28 October 2014 at 4:10 pm

            Hamilton got plenty of help from incumbent Nat MP’s (McIndoe etc) during the recent council / WDC elections.

            These councillors are also refusing to state which way they voted on a contentious sale of public land with an existing community facility on it.

            Transparency when it suits them and don’t get on the wrong side of Hardaker……sound familiar ?

            • Skinny 3.2.1.1.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 5:11 pm

              Mayoress Hardarker had a reputation as a nutcase by fellow Tron lawyers before she conned the public into voting her in. She needs to be kicked to the gutter for this latest attack on the poor.

              The activist base in Hamilton need to plan their campaign to rid the city of this evil woman, and roll a few of the self serving Councilors too that back her. Nic Marryatt (son of the former Christchurch CEO) is running a great campaign fighting these right wing mongrels.

              Well done Nic it’s been a while since we had a beer together. If your in my neck of the woods up north cobber do stop by. Ya Green mates are always welcome at my place too.

            • The Al1en 3.2.1.1.1.2
              28 October 2014 at 5:15 pm

              “These councillors are also refusing to state which way they voted on a contentious sale of public land with an existing community facility on it.”

              Which land is this?

              • Skinny …
                28 October 2014 at 7:07 pm

                All too much of a cosy arrangement between the Mayoress and her flunkies with no transparency. Be the same Councilors who tried to reduce rates for city retail landlords, as it transpired some of these ‘same Councilors’ had conflicts of interest, having reasonable portfolio’s of retail building ownership.

      • KJS0ne 3.2.2
        28 October 2014 at 10:46 am

        I knew it, I knew they’d sell those state houses for penny’s on the dollar to their mates. This is a play straight out of Yeltsen era Russian Federation.

    • Chooky 3.3
      28 October 2014 at 10:06 am

      +100 yes good that radionz is looking at this issue finally….a pity they didnt hammer it before the Election

  4. les 4
    28 October 2014 at 8:57 am

    at least Key has warned his team about ‘arrogance’ in this 3rd term,so thats a relief.

  5. just saying 5
    28 October 2014 at 9:16 am

    I think we owe the New Zealand Labour Party a big slow-handed clap for handing the wealthy and the National Party as their representatives, the state housing estate on a plate – basted and garnished.

    When it repeatedly refused to talk about state housing, for six fucking years. When it decided to propose supporting those most in need via a trickle-down scheme in which they would subsidise the children of the comfortable middle-class into brand-spanking new houses to start their portfolios with. When it decided that some sections of the population were acceptable collateral damage in propping-up the tender sensibilities of the “middle”……

    • Draco T Bastard 5.1
      28 October 2014 at 11:17 am

      +11111

    • Colonial Rawshark 5.2
      28 October 2014 at 11:26 am

      $400,000 houses are affordable homes, don’t you know.

      The question which needs to be constantly asked now: is Labour a solution, or the impediment to a solution.

      • Draco T Bastard 5.2.1
        28 October 2014 at 1:46 pm

        Labour has been an impediment to a solution for the last thirty years. I had some hope that DC would correct that but the present leadership contest has dashed that hope.

    • Chooky 5.3
      28 October 2014 at 4:23 pm

      when i was a kid , even the poorest of poor families ie those with too many children and a drunken father and a mother addicted to drugs (most unusual at the time) had a good solid State house to live in and a good solid high quality local State School to go to….so there was equality of sorts

      ( and I might add i knew kids from well off farming families who had an alcoholic parent ..but who went to private schools..i dont think they were any more successful than the working class kids…and in some cases far less so …because the addictions continued)

      …. quality State housing and State education should be available and an absolute minimum for every New Zealand child…this should be a bottom line for a self respecting Labour Party

      (….and imo it is/was a disgrace the Labour Party was not willing to work in ith the Mana/Int Party)

      • philj 5.3.1
        28 October 2014 at 7:11 pm

        Chook, good comment. Housing, edukashun, and food. Basics, but we need more than bread alone.

  6. Sabine 6
    28 October 2014 at 9:47 am

    It should be pointed out ad nauseam and until kingdom comes, that the only reason National has state houses to sell – ie. assets, is because previous Labour Governments have build them.

    Can anyone of our resident Blue Shirts point us to an asset that was build under a National Government that could be sold to increase the coffers of the state and keep the tax cuts for the rich?

    Anyone?

    • wekarawshark 6.1
      28 October 2014 at 9:55 am

      I was going to say the Clyde dam, but it’s already been sold. How about other Think Big projects?

    • Bob 6.2
      28 October 2014 at 2:24 pm

      Let’s start with:
      Methanol plant at Waitara
      Ammonia/urea plant at Kapuni
      Synthetic-petrol plant at Motunui
      Expansion of the Marsden Point Oil Refinery
      Expansion of the New Zealand Steel plant at Glenbrook
      A third reduction line at the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter
      The Clyde Dam.

      Now, let’s spin this question around, are you saying you would you prefer one million dollar 3 bedroom state house, to three $333K, 3 bedroom state houses?
      Are you saying needy families should miss out because we would have to sell one house to build three, because that would be classed as Asset Sales, and asset sales are bad in all circumstances?

      Now I admit Bill English sounds very cagey on the details around this, but if these sales mean an overall increase in State Houses, this is surely a good thing isn’t it?

      • tc 6.2.1
        28 October 2014 at 4:13 pm

        look forward to your answers on behalf of Bill there Bob……anytime suits.

        based on their existing track record of dwelling creation don’t hold your breath.

      • One Anonymous Bloke 6.2.2
        28 October 2014 at 4:31 pm

        if these sales mean an overall increase in State Houses,

        [citation needed]

        English isn’t “cagey on the details”: he’s lying, or if I’m to be charitable, delusional. Destroying the village to save the village is the kind of trite cak that only ever appeals to ideologues, enablers or dupes. Smash the weak to test an idea…

        Which is Bill ‘Double Dipton’ English? Troughing little career chancer? Machiavellian tool of the wealthy? True believer?

        A nasty piece of work? Or a scared silly right wing brain well out of its depth?

        • RedBaronCV 6.2.2.1
          28 October 2014 at 9:33 pm

          No english needs to pocket the cash. The Nacts have borrowed $80billion and keeping it at the same rate for the next three years means he has to borrow around $40b . So unless he wants a credit downgrade he has to pocket state house cash topped up by ACC and the Cullen fund investing solely in Govt bonds.

          Nact are leaving behind a hell of a fiscal mess.

      • Ad 6.2.3
        28 October 2014 at 9:46 pm

        If… then surely?

        Sucker.

  7. Wairua 7
    28 October 2014 at 9:56 am

    I reckon this individualistic computer culture is part of the problem – isolating people while fostering the illusion of community.

    • Molly 7.2
      28 October 2014 at 10:06 am

      While overdependence of such forms of communication might have that result – TBH, reading and sometimes commenting on places like The Standard, has kept me sane over the last few years.

    • Chooky 7.3
      28 October 2014 at 12:08 pm

      +100 Waiua…computer and media culture…the new opiate of the people!…..the trouble is how to organise people to take action against this John Key Nact selling off of State houses

      @ yes Molly…agreed also! I also find rt and the Keiser Report very good for getting an international perspective on what is happening here in microcosm down under

  8. KJS0ne 8
    28 October 2014 at 10:06 am

    Isn’t it a bit close to an election where National almost won an absolute majority to be saying they’re losing ground among the very people who handed them another 3 years?

    • KJS0ne 8.1
      28 October 2014 at 10:12 am

      Not that I disagree with anything that’s been said in the post, I think the Nat’s media machine and Labour still being scattered as ashes in the wind means exactly what was said, that National do not need to continue the pretense of being a party of the middle class. Historically political parties do not usually make a fourth term (even if the law permits it) so the third term is where you put into place all your really unpopular legislation that benefits your core constituency (the 5% and the corporations.) But we’re a long ways off all those self-deluded middle class folks who think they benefit from a National government actually turning their back on it.

    • Colonial Rawshark 8.2
      28 October 2014 at 11:28 am

      Yep – its almost laughable or self delusional to say that the NATs are losing ground electorally.

    • Tracey 8.3
      28 October 2014 at 12:19 pm

      absolute majority…

      a couple of banks say a record breaking majority

    • McFlock 8.4
      28 October 2014 at 4:47 pm

      ye-es, but it’s also worthwhile to point out that the nats came almost as close to losing the election as they did to gaining an absolute majority.

      But the next three years are going to mean an awful lot of suffering for many people, sadly. The problem is how to get those people voting, rather than dropping out.

  9. PFJ 9
    28 October 2014 at 10:14 am

    If you go back to a speech by Key in 2007, can’t find the link right now but he said the policy was to sell state houses to the occupiers. If he were to stick to that it would have a spectacular effect in bringing people out of poverty and into the property owning class
    in a very short time. The money was to have been reinvested in new stock. Instead we have English planning to sell at market rates to anyone which will immediately leave the occupiers out in the cold literaly, and English will have billions to spend with nothing to show for the spend afterwards.

    • karol 9.1
      28 October 2014 at 11:40 am

      John Key’s speech to the National Party conference 2007:

      Unlike Labour, National has a concrete plan for making housing more affordable. It has four parts to it:

      Ensuring people are in a better financial position to afford a house.

      Freeing up the supply of land.

      Dealing with the compliance issues that drive up building costs, and

      Allowing state house tenants to buy the houses they live in.
      […]
      No 4. We will allow Housing New Zealand tenants who want to purchase the house they live in, to do so. Under National, they can own the place they call home. We will reinvest the proceeds straight back into replacement houses for those desperately needy families on the waiting list.

      It’s a win-win for everyone. The state housing stock is maintained, some families get to experience home ownership for the first time, and the most vulnerable in our communities get to move off the waiting list into affordable housing.

      Thanks for the tip to look for this.

      • Tracey 9.1.1
        28 October 2014 at 12:21 pm

        but the bit he forgot to mention was he will sell them to tenants at market value…

        remember when mums and dads could buy shares first… and then the market. same scam

    • Murray Rawshark 9.2
      29 October 2014 at 12:15 am

      A Russian family I know bought their state house in the 90s, so they were being sold well before 2007. They only managed to do it because they arranged the sale of half the property before they’d bought it. This sale paid their deposit and a bit more. The value soon went up enough that they were able to buy a flat in Epsom so their daughter could go to some flash school. Starting as refugees, they did OK financially out of our welfare state. Now they live in Germany and still hold the properties, which have obviously increased heaps in value.

      • Molly 9.2.1
        29 October 2014 at 10:51 am

        Friends of mine purchased their state home in Meadowbank in the 90’s with a 10% incentive to do so ($25K for the $250 purchase).

        They managed to meet the criteria, as one was self employed, and houses were empty because of market rents.

  10. Ian H 10
    28 October 2014 at 11:04 am

    National’s argument is that they’ll continue to assist with housing but don’t see why the government needs to actually own the bricks and mortar in order to do it. Housing can be provided via rent assistance etc. Of course the danger with rent assistance programs is that they can easily become a welfare program for landlords. But that is a much more nuanced argument than presented in the article.

    • Draco T Bastard 10.1
      28 October 2014 at 11:24 am

      And this is what happens when that’s tried.

    • Colonial Rawshark 10.2
      28 October 2014 at 11:29 am

      Housing can be provided via landlord assistance etc.

      Fixed it for you. What’s “nuanced” about private greed? It’s private greed.

      You recognise that its just a way of funneling public monies into private property portfolios. It’s the National Party way, after all.

  11. Ad 11
    28 October 2014 at 1:42 pm

    Opposition through parliament is finished for this term. Over. Rally all you like.

    Bunji’s question is accurate.

    So let me give you a story. When Mayor John Banks sold off most of Auckland Council’s public housing, there was an uproar, but nothing anyone could do. Until that point, Auckland Council had the ability to really lead social housing across the city. None of the post-1989 Auckland Councils came anywhere near.

    The Minister of Ponsonby Baptist, Mike Riddell, went to a Council meeting and made a massive speech about th callous cruelty of what they were doing, where it would send the mentally ill and disenfranchised, and threw a large handful of 50c pieces on the Mayors desk.

    After that, Mike went back to his church and informed them that they were going to start buying these houses. They formed the Community of Refuge Trust. They subsidised mentally ill people in managed houses, and subsidised families as well. There’s a film Mike wrote about it called The Insatiable Moon.

    Now, 15 years later, they own over 120 units, and a going into partnership in south Auckland for far more. They are one of the most significant housing NGOs.

    Become your own activism. Forget parties and parliament for a while – it will achieve nothing for you or parliament. Take three years and form your own thing.

  12. Tania 12
    28 October 2014 at 4:00 pm

    Sometimes I think if the left cant be bothered to vote we deserve what we get

  13. coaster 13
    28 October 2014 at 4:14 pm

    National are a centre right party with a pm who is trying to appear centrist, and has done it very well. At some point the message fails, as they always do with a falsehood. Then nz will look to the left, people havnt changed, they still have needs and wants, and the majority have a conscience and feel bad for hurting others. People want a fair go.

    national has had slow incremental change, just like when chip packet contents went down, but the bag size changed and the price changed.

    eventually everyone noticed.

    national isnt loosing the middle, there message is failing, albeit slowly

    • Ian H 13.1
      28 October 2014 at 4:37 pm

      National are a centre right party with a pm who is trying to appear centrist, and has done it very well. At some point the message fails, as they always do with a falsehood. Then nz will look to the left,

      Centrists go for the party closest to the center. If National drifts to the right then yes, centrists will look at what the left has to offer. But if, when they take that look, all they can see is a Labour party way out there and miles from the center, then why would they think for even a minute about switching. The further left Labour goes, the easier it is for National to drift right and bring the center with them .

      • miravox 13.1.1
        29 October 2014 at 12:35 am

        Pick your centre. Germany and Austria are by definition centrist with both having grand coalitions of their versions of National and Labour. Both countries are way to the left of the New Zealand right-wing government with it’s hard right tack on Act party.

        • Ian H 13.1.1.1
          29 October 2014 at 2:40 pm

          Yep, the centre of German and Austrian politics is further to the left. And the centre of US politics is further to the right. So? The centre of NZ politics is where it is and it isn’t going to change very fast. It is rooted in fairly stable things like our culture and history the way Kiwis look at the world. New Zealanders are not suddenly going to turn into Germans or Austrians dragging the centre of our politics to the left. Nor are they going to suddenly turn into Americans shifting our politics to the right.

          I hope this isn’t the hook you are hanging your hopes for the future of the Labour party on. The centre of politics shifts only slowly. If Labour wants to reclaim the centre then it needs to move to where the centre is. Sitting out there on the hard left waiting for the centre to move to where the Labour party is would be a pretty dumb thing to do.

  14. fisiani 14
    28 October 2014 at 7:37 pm

    National is a centre right party. From my observations close up 80% centre and 20% slightly right. Virtually all would be Democrats in the USA. The last sentence is not mine. It was uttered by Thomas Friedman the Pulitzer prize winner who visited NZ in 2012. So many posters here are deluded about what constitutes the Right. A few skinhead nutters in Christchurch and members of the Libertarian Party.
    Labour and the Greens are fighting for 600.000 votes on the Left and National are garnering 1,000,000 .
    If Labour want to win then they have stop crying wolf over tea breaks and become more like National.

    • One Anonymous Bloke 14.1
      28 October 2014 at 7:46 pm

      Cabinet papers saying this legislation will help employers cut wages. Economists pointing out that wage stagnation , not innovation, accounts for the profits garnered by wingnut dogma.

      Shall they stop mentioning facts too, on your planet?

    • KJT 14.2
      28 October 2014 at 7:54 pm

      Which just shows how thoroughly right wing, moneyed interests, have bought US politics.

      US politicians should wear sponsors T shirts to show who has paid them. Just like our National party.

    • KJT 14.3
      28 October 2014 at 8:02 pm

      The bloke who said this.

      “must sacrifice some degree of economic sovereignty to global institutions (such as capital markets and multinational corporations), a situation he has termed the “golden straitjacket”.
      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Friedman

      FIFY

    • Draco T Bastard 14.4
      28 October 2014 at 11:56 pm

      I’ll put it this way for you:

      Reality —————————-Labour———completely fucken delusional————National

  15. Ad 15
    28 October 2014 at 8:10 pm

    The US is no useful benchmark of NZ politics.
    It is not our origin, and under MMP it is not our political destination.
    Spectrums of extremism as Fisiani applies are irrelevant.

    Consider that NZ, even compared to Australia, has a really high percentage of very, very activist governments since Seddon. Only Holyoake’s last PM term stands out as a bit plodding.

    Whatever the reasons for it, governments here come in with strong intent to operate all levers at their disposal, do so with force upon the structures, and retreat only once they’ve exhausted us.

    We’ve always been observed as a set of political experiments, by foreign observers and Cabinets alike. We’re politically very unusual. We are our own political culture.

    • One Anonymous Bloke 15.1
      28 October 2014 at 8:35 pm

      That’s all a bit Hari Seldon isn’t it? I’m unconvinced that there’s anything uniquely New Zealand in the way right wing dogma degrades reality.

      • Ad 15.1.1
        28 October 2014 at 8:52 pm

        In the end what is the point of comparing our political economy to others?

        All we can deal with is our own agency, our own structure, our own crowds and power.

        Hari Seldon is your default for the melancholic left because he gets to be the visier for history, like the Angelus in Walter Benjamin. The left hasn’t been able to either forecast crisis or, when it happens, use it well, for nearly 50 years.

        The left have the will to make change, but must be effective at it even when there is no crisis. Currently there’s no effective avenue for doing this on a national level.

        • les 15.1.1.1
          28 October 2014 at 9:46 pm

          perhaps you could be so kind to tell us about the defining policies the NZ National Party have introduced that have made a difference to the standard of living in NZ.Not bribes like Muldoons super.Real change that has made a positive difference.

          • Ad 15.1.1.1.1
            28 October 2014 at 9:54 pm

            Pretty pathetic if you could interpret that comment as supporting one party or the other. Start developing some interpretive skill.

            But since you asked, try this:
            – National has generated more national parks and conservation parks than Labour, either numerically or in hectares
            – National introduced MMP
            – National reformed Auckland – and yes it works better
            – National formed most of the electricity infrastructure, including the reticulation network
            – National forged a series of relationships with major New Zealand industrialist and pastoralist families, and helped grow many of them into powerful multinationals

            Don’t have to like all of it, but trying to demonize National into being devoid of care or policy virtue is just tame.

            • les 15.1.1.1.1.1
              28 October 2014 at 10:20 pm

              you are not a comedian are you?Of your 5 ‘points’ ..1-what does ‘generated’ mean?2-any regrets?>3)says who?4)Max Bradford..!4)..5)like?Pathetic if that is all you can muster for the decades of power they have enjoyed.

              • Ad …
                28 October 2014 at 10:39 pm

                Just once even try to step up to the plate.
                All the weeping just keeps you on the bench.
                Pathetic.

                • McFlock …
                  28 October 2014 at 11:16 pm

                  So what do you think holyoake or even muldoon would think of the last half dozen years? Outstanding success for the country, or a travesty of economic mismanagement and deplorably unethical behaviour?

            • Ergo Robertina 15.1.1.1.1.2
              28 October 2014 at 10:22 pm

              ‘– National formed most of the electricity infrastructure, including the reticulation network’

              By the time the National Party formed in 1936, most urban areas were connected to the electricity grid and were reticulated, and had been for quite some years.
              http://www.teara.govt.nz/en/energy-supply-and-use/page-5

            • les 15.1.1.1.1.3
              28 October 2014 at 10:26 pm

              a liitle more context… Bill Birch, then a senior National Cabinet Minister, had said MMP would be “a catastrophic disaster for democracy”, and Ruth Richardson, former Minister of Finance in Jim Bolger’s government said MMP “would bring economic ruin”. Peter Shirtcliffe, chairman of Telecom New Zealand at the time and leader of the CBG, said MMP “would bring chaos”.[5]

              typical spin.

    • just saying 15.2
      28 October 2014 at 9:24 pm

      What levers did the Clark government operate?
      Seemed to be mostly a holding pattern from where I was standing.

      • blue leopard 15.2.1
        28 October 2014 at 9:41 pm

        I think context is quite important. The Clark government was operating when neo-liberalism was very strong. To achieve a holding pattern is a reasonable achievement in those conditions, however I think they did make small inroads into the narrative, aswell, so that is even better.

        Just from my memory of the Clark government: they managed to stop always catering to the ‘business roundtable’. They didn’t join that illegal war. They raised the minimum wage substantially throughout their tenure (not, perhaps enough to keep up with soaring costs, but more than any other government had for a long time), they took interest off student loans, achieved the lowest level of joblessness for decades, paid back a hell of a lot of government debt, they set up channel 7 TV, and introduced support for low waged people (WFF). All these things were achieved despite the same-old arguments being screeched by National & their business cronies. All these things created better conditions in New Zealand for many and helped the country get through the GFC too i.e. set up positive conditions for the future.

        I also liked the way Clark supported the arts. I do still wonder whether Clark’s attitudes toward the arts created the basis for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and other major film achievements becoming a reality.

        • blue leopard 15.2.1.1
          28 October 2014 at 9:48 pm

          p.s. they started closing the wealth disparity gap, largely due to WFF.

          http://closertogether.org.nz/nzs-income-inequality-problem/

          • Ad 15.2.1.1.1
            28 October 2014 at 10:15 pm

            And goes right into the GINI coefficient and the public health long range stats.

          • Ergo Robertina 15.2.1.1.2
            28 October 2014 at 10:26 pm

            Several years ago when Grant Robertson was health spokesman, he said of Lab5 that it made progress on reducing income inequality, but did not address asset inequality.

            • Ad 15.2.1.1.2.1
              28 October 2014 at 10:41 pm

              The deep Spirit Level, beginning its hard downhill acceleration

            • Colonial Rawshark 15.2.1.1.2.2
              29 October 2014 at 12:19 am

              Lab5 slowed down the growth of income inequality but it was a bullshit, fragile, 2 dimensional and temporary change.

              Mainly it was fueled by massively increasing private debt to push money into circulation thus reducing unemployment. Mixed with rapid increases in the minimum wage. But that’s all circumstantial, not structural. Change the circumstances and income inequality starts rocketing again.

              I say 2 dimensional – because ‘net worth inequality’ really shot up during the Clark years. You owned a couple of houses in 1996 or 1997? You had your retirement made by the end of the Clark years. If you weren’t a home owner – sorry. You got left behind as a lifelong renter.

      • Ad 15.2.2
        28 October 2014 at 9:42 pm

        Where exactly were you standing?

        Within thirty seconds I can give you massive interventions:

        – Kiwisaver
        – Kiwibank
        – Hobsonville
        – Treaty Settlements
        – Working for Families
        – China Free Trade Deal
        – Rugby World Cup secured
        – Lord of the Rings secured
        – Rolling back corporatisation of health
        – The Growth and Innovation Framework
        – Defence procurement for the Navy and Army greater than Vietnam War

        Not saying its Das Capital made manifest, but these are not the list of a managerial government.

        • blue leopard 15.2.2.1
          28 October 2014 at 9:57 pm

          That is much better than my list. 🙂

          • Chooky 15.2.2.1.1
            28 October 2014 at 10:10 pm

            +100 blue leopard and Ad

            yes I have very little patience for those that bag Helen Clark…her Labour Governments were way preferable to what we have now!

            ….and she did not take us into that illegal war in Iraq…she had principles and guts!

        • Colonial Rawshark 15.2.2.2
          29 October 2014 at 12:14 am

          Good list. All done with a happy capitalist market driven framework though.

          Notice for instance how Kiwi Bank hasn’t been effective in slowing down billion dollar Aussie banking profits.

          And how re-equipping the NZ Defence forces was a boon for…overseas based military industrial complex.

          Or how WFF helps subsidise employers who pay less than the living wage.

          Rugby World Cup secured / Americas Cup secured / Lord of the Rings secured. How socialist it is to help large corporate enterprises make even more money!

          China Free Trade deal. Yeah. Labour thumbs up free trade. Major achievement. Dairy farmers say thank you.

  16. fisiani 16
    28 October 2014 at 11:47 pm

    http://www.inthehouse.co.nz/video/34565

    Really losing the middle………

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    Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    9 hours ago

  • 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
    11 hours 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
    14 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
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  • 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    16 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
    23 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
    2 days 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
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Laptop Screen? Navigating Repair Options and Costs
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last? Demystifying Lifespan and Maximizing Longevity
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    2 days ago

  • Climate Change: Turning the tide
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    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago

  • How to Unlock Your Computer A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Access
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    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

  • 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
    12 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    3 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
    5 days ago

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