No time like the present

Written By: - Date published: 11:34 am, February 24th, 2012 - 84 comments
Categories: david shearer, welfare - Tags:

Google news has 1.5 pages of articles mentioning David Shearer to John Key’s 13 in the past week. The only ones directly about Shearer or Labour are saying ‘where’s Shearer? He’s wasting his honeymoon’.

Since that honeymoon is with the press, when they start saying it’s being wasted, it’s already over.

The rightwing pundits are telling Shearer to ‘keep his powder dry’, which happens to give the impression that he has no powder, and saying he’s doing everything right. A sure sign he’s not. The Right know that, in the end, the public won’t vote for a major party if they don’t think its leader can be a good PM. And they know that the media narrative around a new leader, which then becomes how the public sees them, is fixed during these first few months.

I wondered what his strategists are thinking, just wasting their opportunity needlessly. I pondered that their plan might be to watch National’s polling be dragged down by asset sales and the economy, pray that some of the votes come their way, and then shimmy back into power without anyone really noticing – as if New Zealanders change PMs that easily, as if Shearer is preordained to rise from 10% in the preferred PM stakes.

Then I saw they’re all the same people who just led Labour to 27% and I realised the scary part – they’re trying their best.

Even they, though, will be finally waking up to the fact that they’re losing the journos and the narrative on Shearer is getting bleak. This will be panicking them, even though it’s already too late.

Expect to see Shearer announce Pagani’s half-arsed reactionary welfare policy in the next few days. Expect its only outcome to be to drive what’s left of Labour’s working class and liberal vote to the Greens and Mana, while emboldening National to go further and comfortable outbid Labour for the reactionary vote.

84 comments on “No time like the present ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Morrissey 1
    24 February 2012 at 11:51 am

    The Labour Party chose the wrong David.

  2. Colonial Viper 2
    24 February 2012 at 12:00 pm

    None of this matters; the tide is going out on National and coming in on Labour. So just sit and wait it out people, no need for panic or action.

    • aerobubble 2.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:14 pm

      Asset sales and bend over for China. Key implodes on the spike of neo-liberal stupid.

    • William Joyce 2.2
      24 February 2012 at 2:13 pm

      I think when the tide comes in it’ll be on the Greens.

      • Vicky32 2.2.1
        24 February 2012 at 4:51 pm

        I think when the tide comes in it’ll be on the Greens.

        Please, nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! IMO they simply cannot be trusted.
    • mickysavage 2.3
      24 February 2012 at 3:15 pm

      Agreed CV but I do not want Labour to sleep walk to victory.
       
      And there are a couple of senior ops who should not be allowed near any decision making.  White anteing a contender while supposedly working for the party should not be tolerated.
       
      If anyone thinks of the past three years and can think of any jarring, stupid sloganistic type policy that did not mesh in with what was a complex integrated policy framework they are to blame.

      • Futurity 2.3.1
        24 February 2012 at 5:44 pm

        I think CV is being cynical there. 🙂 The same strategists who led Labour to 27% are just sitting there waiting for the cycle to put some wind back into Labour’s sails and drive them over the line in 2014, whatever and whoever the leader is.

        Or there is a greater agenda, one that sees another leadership change prior to 2014

        • tc 2.3.1.1
          24 February 2012 at 8:27 pm

          I hear that most of the members who attended the leadership candidates meetings supported Cunliffe over Shearer but it was the Mallard/Robertson team that got Shearer over the line. This could get pretty ugly. If Shearer does not get high in the polls the duck will be into him.

          You also have to wonder about the mentality of those who swung away from DC given it was from the same folk behind the 2011 failure persuading them…..interesting times in the red camp.

  3. Brad 3
    24 February 2012 at 12:00 pm

    There is over two and a half years till the next election, things don’t change in an instant. I admit I am also a little concerned about his absence from the media recently, but he has been travelling the country recently which can’t hurt

    • aerobubble 3.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:17 pm

      The MSM is stacked against anyone who doesn’t play to Murdoch tune. So Shearer needs to get out and just hit the road, alone with getting some geeks on line to push all the new openings in cyber space. Labour should be formulating a platform and nudging Key to the cliff edge. Not that Key needs much nudging, having just had the courts declare that kiwi investors do have rights and government cannot ignore those rights because key got shonkey free trade lawyers advice.

  4. muzza 4
    24 February 2012 at 12:06 pm

    Yeah, lets just swap sides every few years cos that is what democracy is – I vote therefore I am!

    The rise of Shearer on the back of epic Nat failure, great stuff, can’t wait for it!

    Rort

    • burt 4.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:45 pm

      Oh muzza, it’s not about what is good for NZ. It’s all about the political parties. Flip-flopping all major social and economic policies every 3-9 years is what keeps them popular. Please don’t think about the cost; fiscal, social or opportunity…. The prize muzza… the prize is the front benches and the ends always justifies the means.

      • muzza 4.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 12:48 pm

        Indeed Burt….Long term prognosis by running the same play book over continually..

        Pretty F-en poor, I’d say!

  5. tc 5
    24 February 2012 at 12:07 pm

    Labour will become a minor party with the same old guard guiding strategy and lazy MP’s just taking the money.
    Gone are the days when it had plenty of passionate enthuusiatic MP’s wanting to make a difference….they’re just marking time expecting to get their turn eventually.

    • Rosemary 5.1
      24 February 2012 at 2:26 pm

      And gone are the days of enthusiastic, caring and innovative strategists. All they have now are a bunch of tired old boring fuckwits who think of themselves as part of some political academic elite responsible for everything Labour politicians do and say. Labour sorting themselves out also requires a good and total clean out of these dicks who think they know how to advise but who in reality spend all their time up their own arses.

  6. shorts 6
    24 February 2012 at 12:08 pm

    everyday Labour does little the Greens get stronger – which isn’t a bad thing in itself

    I await Mr Shearer to take some sort of lead as he only has 2 1/2 years (which isn’t very long) to convince so many he is the right man to take New Zealand forward

    meanwhile I watch with dismay and dread as many of this countries fine institutions are slowly dismantled

  7. Enough is Enough 7
    24 February 2012 at 12:09 pm

    I agree there is no time like the present to be putting your name and party name in the headlines. Shearer’s silence can only be considered a wasted opportunity.

    I think the reason why Shearer isn’t coming out on the attack as we expect him to is because of his long term strategy. Rightly or wrongly Labour was perceived as negative between ’08 and ’11. The rightis went on and on about Labour being the nasty party. The right were happy to forget that the role of the opposition is to to oppose.

    I think Shearer has bought into that meme and therefore wants to be positive and is going out of his way to not be seen or regarded as a negative person. His strategy is to propose an alternative positive vision for New Zealand.

    Whether that strategy works or not is debateable. Unless he starts doing something soon we will never have the chance to find out because DC will roll him.

    • Deano 7.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:27 pm

      you don’t have to go negative on everything like Goff did. In fact, this is the time when Shearer should be laying out a positive vision – details can come later, but its important that he sets up an imagine of himself, and a negative counter-point for National now.

      Like Zet, I fear it’s too late already. The media has tired of waiting and won’t be receptive. In fact, invisible and indecisive is becoming the Shearer story.

      • Enough is Enough 7.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 12:35 pm

        Agreed

        he seems to have discarded negative but hasn’t quite found positive, leaving him in the neutral territory of the political wilderness

  8. Brad 8
    24 February 2012 at 12:11 pm

    Of course he can adopt the Phil Goff strategy of appearing in the media commenting on every single issue, no matter how unimportant

  9. tsmithfield 9
    24 February 2012 at 12:14 pm

    I think Labour has some major problems.

    I can see the union vote going to the Mana party and the liberal vote going to the Greens. This leaves Labour having to scrap it out for the middle ground with National, NZ First, et al.

    • Brad 9.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:15 pm

      Well the middle ground is where most votes are to be found…

      • Deano 9.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 12:39 pm

        but would Shearer inspire you to vote? Say you voted Clark 2 or 3 times, then twice for Key but you’re sick of him now, would you switch back to Shearer? Would you stay with Key because there’s no-one else suitable? Would you just stay home?

        It’s not enough for people to stop voting National. Shearer needs to bring votes to Labour.

        • muzza 9.1.1.1
          24 February 2012 at 12:45 pm

          Say people just flip floped because they couldn’t be bothered to think for themselves, and just did what the media told them, or doggedly voted for their “families party choice”.

          Here you go little sheep, would you like the nice red one, or the nice blue one, don’t tell anyone that they are more or less the same thing….ssshhhh, its a secret.

          • Deano 9.1.1.1.1
            24 February 2012 at 12:54 pm

            whether you like it or not, the reality is that the the government isn’t determined by informed people like you and me who rarely change the parties we support and are highly unlikely to ever go between right and left. It’s determined by the swing voters in the middle who are, by definition, the most easily swayed and least informed voters. It’s called democracy. A successful major party has to give those people a reason to vote for it, and they look mainly for personality traits and a compelling narrative, not policy detail.

            • muzza 9.1.1.1.1.1
              24 February 2012 at 1:33 pm

              “whether you like it or not, the reality is that the the government isn’t determined by informed people like you and me who rarely change the parties we support and are highly unlikely to ever go between right and left”

              I’m not a party voter, I don’t support the system that way. I see supporting a party, like supporting a sports team dogmatically.

              Why would anyone want to not be fluid in theIr thought process, be able to see the wider view of the world, and weigh up issues based on the greater good, instead of being penned onto a manipulateable box, where your thoughts are no longer even your own, as you are directed by “the party” or “the ideology”, or whatever it is that prevents critical analysis, and thought!

              Nothing demoractic about it Deano – Try again!

      • Olwyn 9.1.2
        24 February 2012 at 1:51 pm

        “The middle ground is where most votes are to be found”

        That is only conditionally true. If you are confident in having a strong support base, then it makes sense to court the middle to extend and stabilise it. But if you let your support base erode, so that they either turn to other parties or give up voting, then the middle is not going to make up for what you have lost. Look at Peter Dunne, who aims at the centre – he does not have a huge following.

        There is a temptation on the left to think, well we have to court the centre, because the low paid, etc, have nowhere else to go, which probably works in times of reasonable equilibrium. But at present the pendulum has swing so far right that a Labour Party that cleaves too eagerly to the centre seriously risks losing its support base, many of whom would rather not vote than vote for people who do not meaningfully represent them.

    • Robert Glennie 9.2
      24 February 2012 at 1:46 pm

      National is not a centre party, and nor is Labour. They are really at heart, conservative and socialist parties respectively. To occupy the true centre would be for those parties to alienate their voter base. The core of farmers, bankers and such who want further deregulation and smaller government, are the true core of National. The equivalent core of Labour are the unions, the minority groups who want a welfare net.

      The true party of the centre is New Zealand First.

  10. vto 10
    24 February 2012 at 12:22 pm

    Sounds to me like too much talk and not enough action. What’s that saying about over-analysis leading to paralysis?

    He should just get out there and get into it.

    • muzza 10.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:38 pm

      If Shearer is not capable to decide for himself, when and how he should interject – He is no leader!
      If Shearer has to be told when and how to interject himself – He is no leader!

      Not looking like much of a leader presently!

      What we have is media driven politics, aimed at semi conscious sheep who are not able to think for themselves.

      • vto 10.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 1:10 pm

        well that is how it appears. If he wants to be his best then he needs to be himself. Lead the charge. Trust in himself. The easiest thing to be the best in the world at is himself. So if that self is leadership material then let’s see the best of Shearer – as written, directed and produced by Shearer.

        cast aside the drag

        • muzza 10.1.1.1
          24 February 2012 at 1:59 pm

          Spot on VTO – Thats all any of us need to be is ourselves, trust our intincts, which have been bred and brainwashed out of us!

          Media will never allow it though!

        • felix 10.1.1.2
          24 February 2012 at 9:36 pm

          Too right v.

          Do you get the feeling he’s trying to figure out where the people are going so he can jump in front and “lead” them there?

  11. oftenpuzzled 11
    24 February 2012 at 12:39 pm

    Maybe it is better to put in a search for ‘Labour Party’, there are many more pages covering the work of the current team. Shearer wants the whole team to be participants not just himself as sole spokesperson as our Mr Key would rather be.

  12. Craig Glen Eden 12
    24 February 2012 at 12:42 pm

    Labour got the wrong David that’s for sure.Shearer is a novice politically backed by the brains trust of pagani,mallard,goff, so don’t except anything different from them than we got for the last three years. As for shearers strategy of touring the country it didn’t work for goff did it? The sooner Shearer goes the better.sadly by the time this labour oppositions sorts out it’s shit the assets will be gone.

    • Te Reo Putake 12.1
      24 February 2012 at 12:53 pm

      Er, can I politely say rubbish, Craig? There is no brains trust as you describe, and as best as I can work out, the concept is a deliberate lie engendered by people not actually in Labour. My understanding is that Goff cut Pagani adrift a year ago, and Mallard supported that move. Mallard confirmed a few days ago that he has no significant contact with Pagani, though I suppose they bump into each other at fundraisers and are no doubt civil to each other.

      • just saying 12.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 1:13 pm

        My understanding is that Goff cut Pagani adrift a year ago, and Mallard supported that move. Mallard confirmed a few days ago that he has no significant contact with Pagani,..

        I’m interested. Link or source please?

      • Edos 12.1.2
        24 February 2012 at 1:31 pm

        Pagani’s been working for Labour the whole time. He has an office on the same floor as Mallard.

        • Te Reo Putake 12.1.2.1
          24 February 2012 at 2:20 pm

          No and no again. The facts are as I laid it out above. John Pagani’s only real involvement in the last election was in support of Josie Pagani’s campaign in Rangitikei, which was excellent btw and one of the few tory seats to see the majority drop.
           
          What he is doing right this minute for Labour, if anything, I do not know but if Shearer wants to make use of his skills, I would welcome that. Just as I would welcome Shearer getting advice or ideas from anyone with a pro Labour campaigning history. The big question, of course, isn’t who the ideas come from, but which ones Shearer chooses to adopt.

          • Edos 12.1.2.1.1
            24 February 2012 at 2:50 pm

            Pagani was being paid $10,000 a month during last year for ‘strategic advice’ while shopping himself as a commentator.

            He has an office on the same floor as Mallard. Ring the Labour Leader’s office and ask to be put through to him.

  13. Brad 13
    24 February 2012 at 12:44 pm

    After following this thread I think I better go outside and check whether the sky is falling

  14. Bored 14
    24 February 2012 at 12:51 pm

    1.5 quality pages versus 13 shabby pages….I know which I would prefer.

    • Blighty 14.1
      24 February 2012 at 1:21 pm

      Um, the post says they’re not 1.5 quality pages and, anyway, the point is it’s not about you. It’s about the people that the Left needs to get to vote for it if it’s going to win in 2014, not the people who will be voting Left anyway.

      • Bored 14.1.1
        24 February 2012 at 3:09 pm

        Who says I will be voting “left”?

        Actually I am quite happy to watch Key making a total pillock of himself on as many pages as we can give him. On the converse the less Shearer says extremely well the better impression he will make.

  15. Tombstone 15
    24 February 2012 at 12:52 pm

    Have to say when it comes to an opposition leader with a tonne of ammo at their disposal it would seem that Shearer, and ultimately Labour are a little slow off the mark to say the least. Key and the National Party are seriously vulnerable right now and Labour should be tearing them a new one as we speak and not sitting back like Tua waiting to land a last minute knock out punch. I like Shearer but have to agree with others – a good leader would be savaging National right now rather than playing easy does it. We don’t have time for that crap as a country. In fact I’ve read more coming from Little than Shearer as of late which says a great deal as far as I’m concerned.

  16. Chris Oden 16
    24 February 2012 at 12:57 pm

    I do think that Shearer will lose any momentum he may have had if he does not make himself visible SOON! key and english are all over the news and even if it’s negative it’s keeping themselves in the public eye and we know how that worked for key before.People are waiting to hear what is going to be done about our children who are living only half the life they could and should be living.They deserve better.not just a green paper that will turn into a white paper which everyone knows will go straight into bin 13. key and english NEVER talk about the needs of the population and how they are going to address the poverty they have inflicted them. Its all about staying in power and to do this it seems they need to frack NZ to its nth degree.Politicians need to be talking about PEOPLE and what we have to look forward to. I am sick of key english and joyce poncing around like theyknow best when they have proved time and time again they know nothing.We need to know what Labour is going be doing and soon.Come on guys, we know you’re out there!

  17. Te Reo Putake 17
    24 February 2012 at 12:59 pm

    “Expect to see Shearer announce Pagani’s half-arsed reactionary welfare policy in the next few days.”
     
    Howsabout a link to Pagani’s article so people can actually read what he said and come to a sensible conclusion as to whether it is as bad as you have misunderstood it to be?
     
    Other than that quibble, top post and you raise some pertinent points, Zet. But, as usual, I would point out that Shearer is already way more popular than Goff and that Labour are heading back to respectable figures in 3 polls in a row. Not bad for a bloke who isn’t doing anything, eh?

  18. McFlock 18
    24 February 2012 at 1:02 pm

    I was intrigued that Scoop indactes Shearer’s office is only plugging out a media release every few days – I’d expect it daily. And work on his aid history by giving him some sort of welfare/education/development/families/child health supremo job – the individual spokepeople have their portfolios, but he daily slugs the big picture.

  19. Hilary 19
    24 February 2012 at 1:56 pm

    Could it be that Shearer is actually using his eyes, ears and brain rather than his mouth, and listening to people and groups away from the media glare? It’s called building relationships. The media at the moment is all over the place, and still a little bit entranced by Winston – and no one will win a publicity battle with him. I expect some form of collegial leadership led by Shearer will emerge in the next few months, probably of a different style than we have seen before.

    • McFlock 19.1
      24 February 2012 at 2:05 pm

      Possibly.
      But the main relationship a politician needs to build is with the electorate.

      Personally I’d recommend Shearer be “Jeff” to Winston’s “mutt”. Winston attacks well – so Shearer should complement that skill, not compete.

  20. Te Reo Putake 20
    24 February 2012 at 2:35 pm

    Well, it looks like Shearer reads the Standard (or Danya Levy does, given the headline).
     
    In a speech to Grey Power in Auckland this afternoon, Shearer said he was not the kind of leader who believed in ”rival tribes playing gotcha”.
    ”Of course that’s what a lot of people look for. They want to score the game, give points for the best smart remark in Parliament. But that’s not what most New Zealanders want.”
    There was no excuse for not being constructive.
    ”I want a new kind of politics, pragmatic and attentive to what works, not tied up in the squabbles of the past.”

    • Lanthanide 20.1
      24 February 2012 at 3:48 pm

      Can’t help but think Shearer has been reading Pete George’s comments.

    • Ad 20.2
      24 February 2012 at 3:51 pm

      I don’t mind so much that he has managed to start playing in a field that Winston Peters has owned for weeks.

      I could even cope with his total absence from the Ports of Auckland dispute. Sigh.

      It rankles just slightly that we appear grateful that Labour has a leader that finally gets to 10% approval, when we are dealing still with a 40% spread to the leader and simply risible Party numbers that honestly are not really moving.

      It is slightly more annoying that he can’t spit out a coherent framework – even a simple moral framework would do – after six months, and particularly after preparing to take the party to the wire on how much he wanted the leadership.

      But to me what is truly galling that he does not think that politics is a competition. Both for the broader population and for that activist sorts. It is as silly Goff saying “This isn’t a popularity contest”. It really is. And it really is tribal.

      This isn’t Mr Smith Goes to Washington. This really is politics, and he has to deal with it. The crowd really is watching. And there really is only one winner, even in a future coalition.

      It is time we stopped being satisfied with leadership in which the bar has been sets low we start popping corks for a 2% change and are grateful if they don’t drool. Were we not flabbergasted when a candidate the stature of Winston Peters could take 6% from a standing start? He had a small simple spark.

      And we also know we need so much more than Winston Peters. Everyone on this site would know what a compelling progressive leader would look like.

      It ain’t Sherer – come on people.

      I have absolutely no faith in Sherer at all and it would take a miracle to change it.

      • Jackal 20.2.1
        24 February 2012 at 7:24 pm

        Shearers moral framework is well established. Perhaps you need to read up on his history Ad.

        Labour provided one of the most comprehensive opposition “frameworks” ever seen in this county prior to the last election. The detail of which was used by National to attack Labour. We now know that National lied about their figures, so perhaps providing ammunition is not the answer.

        What makes you think that Shearer believes politics is not a competition? I have seen nothing in the media that points towards such a conclusion. Personally I think politics should move away from the ideological competitiveness and towards a more unified governance that is truly designed to benefit all New Zealander’s. A brighter future for all should not just be a slogan.

        I agree that we should demand more from our government and like the fact that Shearer isn’t beholden to the media. The media have proven themselves to be corrupt on numerous occasions and devoid of logical and reasonable thought. They’re obviously sold to the highest bidder. So what is to be said to those that will throw it in your face no matter what you say?

        It would appear that Shearer is in contemplation about what he will do about the mess from National’s mismanagement. I don’t think Labour is hoping that some votes will come their way, I think they realize they will inherit some major financial and social problems. Tell me what you would do if you were to be lumped with someone else’s financial problems?

        Some people might believe that being in the fore is preferable, but I like the less is more approach. No news is often good news… let National dig their own grave.

        Shearer is a compelling and progressive leader… especially in comparison to John Key. Mark my words, David Shearer will be New Zealand’s next Prime Minister.

  21. the pink postman 21
    24 February 2012 at 2:37 pm

    Not one off you has revealed the real reason why labour is not hiting the headlines . Its the Right-Wing press and media. The papers are owned by big business and they dread even a mild Labour Government . The Herald for one is just a long period National propogander machine . Be positive cancell your daily paper sub until they become truly independent and publish both sides of the debate. Key’s photo is a pemanent feature in the Herald. The Waikato Times is not far behind hardly a day passes when Keys smirking face is not somewhere in the waikato Times. If only the Left would amalgamate and produce a decent paper we would be getting somewhere .

  22. Bill 22
    24 February 2012 at 2:43 pm

    I think it’s an absolutely brilliant strategy that Labour is executing.

    1. John Key is perceived as nice guy, so lets have a nice guy as leader who might be percieved as nicer than theirs.

    2. Their nice guy does nothing and their party maintains a high level of support, so our nice guy should do even more nothing.

    3. Keep on whining about the media not giving coverage to our ‘nicer than their nice guy’ doing more nothing better than their ‘do nothing nice guy’.

    It’s a sure fire winner!

  23. Vicks 23
    24 February 2012 at 4:33 pm

    So Z to address your concerns. On the one hand you seem to rate Google as a reliable source – ie Shearer has only 1.5 pages of articles and Key 13. Then on the other accuse anyone who thinks Shearer “keeping his powder dry” must be unreliable RWNJ. I have seen many contributors to this forum accused of being RWNJ for having a different opinion from the author or other contributors who have an axe to grind.

    All that aside I think it is important to keep in mind that the National Party machine has a lot more dosh to fund minions to populate these publications – reliable or not. We on the left use activists so perhaps the solution is for a few of the authors here (some of whom may be Labour activists…) to divert some of their energy onto publications to even the score out.

    Another concern you have that Shearer is getting advice to keep his powder dry from the right. I am definitely not from the right and I think he is doing exactly what he should be doing. This time should be used to continue with the work going on in the background to form relationships and remake Labour a more vibrant and viable party. Continued harping on about the Labour leadership gives the real RWNJ leverage to destabilise the forward momentum that will see a change in Government in 2014.

    God help us all if we had to endure what is happening in Australia right now. The only winners are the Liberals.

    • Ad 23.1
      24 February 2012 at 5:48 pm

      There is only one thing worse in the politics of the media than being beaten in an argument or ridiculed: that is to be ignored. Z is pointing out the consequences of Shearer remaining inconsequential because he is being ignored. Of course it’s not a conspiracy – it’s simply measuring Shearer’s poor political performance.

      As for publications that even the score out, the point is only partially taken. It is largely not up to activists to do the job of the political leadership within the mainstream media. If Shearer – the guy anointed to lead – had had just one really good story in the mainstream, we would be just so grateful as to be eating out on it for months on the blogs. It is on the blogs and Facebook that the media’s real amplification effects take place now.

      I guess i disagree that he should be concentrating on relationships at the expense of good powerful media stories. He has a whole shadow cabinet to help form relationships. And a party. His job is to be out front and centre. Political discourse doesn’t wait for you to be ready. You are either in the game or you are not.

      If Shearer had given any rhetorical knockout performance anywhere, he would have given us all confidence that – as many wanted from Goff – he would come out strong at the end and take the win. But because he has no political track record, and no wins anywhere in the media, this poor performance is all we have to measure him on.

      As for another leadership spill, well, I’m waiting for One Member One Vote, before I hope for that.

  24. coolas 24
    24 February 2012 at 6:26 pm

    I like the way Shearer is travelling around the country talking, listening, watching .. and waiting. Smart man to stand back awhile. I don’t see the urgency of him to be media focused right now.

    I think Shearer may posses a quality rare in politics – sincerity. And that’s real hard for the MSM to suck up at any time.

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    15 hours ago

  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    18 hours ago

  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-03T15:56:07+00:00