NZ not attending Nagasaki event, insists decision unrelated to Israel invite snub
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1:41 pm, August 12th, 2024 - 27 comments
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Guest post by Mick Hall, cross-posted from his Substack site Mick Hall in Context
A leading peace campaigner is calling New Zealand’s decision to stay away from an event in Nagasaki paying tribute to victims of the city’s 1945 nuclear bombing outrageous.
Former trade union leader Robert Reid said New Zealand could have acted as a strong independent Pacific voice by attending the Friday, August 9 peace gathering, held annually to commemorate the estimated 70,000 people killed in a US nuclear attack on the Japanese city at the end of World War II.
“New Zealand has missed an opportunity to demarcate itself from the cheerleaders of the Gaza genocide, from the US and the UK and other Western countries, and in a way has turned its back on Japan, which was an ally with us in the anti-nuclear position that New Zealand has held for many years,” the ex-First Union president said.
His comments come after a Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) spokesperson confirmed to In Context neither New Zealand’s ambassador to Japan Hamish Cooper or any other consulate official would be attending the peace ceremony, stressing the move was due to “resourcing” and unrelated to a boycott by Western nations following the city’s decision not to invite Israel.
The US and its Western allies have refused to attend the peace ceremony because Nagasaki’s Mayor Shiro Suzuki declined to send an invite to Israel to attend over events in the Middle East and to avoid possible protests at the event.
In a statement a Mfat spokesperson said: “The New Zealand Government will not be represented at the commemorations at Nagasaki on 9 August 2024. This decision reflects limited resourcing of the Embassy in Tokyo, and is not associated with attendance of other countries.”
However, it is understood New Zealand was represented at a commemoration event at head of mission level in Hiroshima on Tuesday. Nagasaki is located south of Hiroshima and a journey three-and-a-half hours by train.
The Nagasaki commemoration was cancelled last year due to a typhoon warning. New Zealand had been represented at both the Hiroshima and Nagasaki events in recent years, at head of mission level in 2022 and 2021.
It only attended the Hiroshima commemoration in 2020, a period when Covid-19 lockdowns and travel restrictions were widespread.
New Zealand’s absence comes after envoys of the United States, Canada, Germany, France, the UK and other Western nations sent a letter to Nagasaki organisers expressing concern over the city not inviting Israel.
The letter, dated July 19, warned that if Israel was excluded, “it would become difficult for us to have high-level participation” in the event as it would “result in placing Israel on the same level as countries such as Russia and Belarus,” both having been excluded from the ceremony since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Australia, New Zealand’s closest Five Eyes security partner, also refused to attend the event.
In a statement on July 31 outlining the reasons for excluding Israel, Suzuki said officials feared protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza would take away the ceremony’s solemnity. He added he made the decision based on “various developments in the international community in response to the ongoing situation in the Middle East”.
An International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion on July 19 ruled Israel’s occupation of Palestine illegal and that Israel was administering a system of apartheid through discriminatory laws and policies. Apartheid is a crime against humanity.
In a 14-1 ruling, the ICJ directed Israel to immediately cease all settlement activity, evacuate settlers from occupied Palestinian territories, and pay reparations to Palestinians. It also voted 12-3 that UN states not render aid or assistance to Israel to continue the illegal occupation.
On July 30, the UN Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner said in light of the ruling: “States must immediately review all diplomatic, political, and economic ties with Israel, inclusive of business and finance, pension funds, academia and charities.”
There were protests on Wednesday following a decision by the Hiroshima municipality to allow Israeli representation at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park event the day before, while not inviting a Palestinian envoy on the basis the occupied country was not a United Nations member and Japan did not recognise it as a state.
“I understand New Zealand is not calling its absence a boycott, but just that it’s too busy, but it has attended in the past,” Reid said.
“I think we’re just playing with words here. This was a chance for New Zealand to stand with the people of Palestine, to stand with the Japanese people, who have had bombs dropped on them and they have perhaps taken a weak way out by not attending.”
The Disarmament and Security Centre Aotearoa is holding a Hiroshima and Nagasaki commemoration event on Sunday, August 11 at Christchurch’s Botanic Gardens at 11am.
The non-profit organisation is a virtual centre connecting disarmament experts, lawyers, political scientists, academics, teachers, students and disarmament proponents.
Dr Marcus Coll and Disarmament and Security Centre (DSC) co-founder Kate Dewes in July 2021. (Photo: DSC)
Its spokesperson Dr Marcus Coll said he was shocked New Zealand would not be attending the Nagasaki event this year.
“These sorts of things should never be about resources because it’s the symbolism of it that is so important and actually showing solidarity with the victims of Nagasaki,” he said.
“In the Pacific region especially, we’ve really felt the effects of nuclear testing throughout the decades and then in Japan, there still are a lot of the survivors and their families are affected because of the intergenerational effects.”
Coll spent seven years studying and working in Japan. His doctoral research involved interviewing and researching survivors of the atomic bombings, as well as indigenous rights activists, religious and military leaders, peace campaigners, and others who were instrumental in shaping New Zealand’s nuclear free identity.
He said Japan’s survivors had expressed awe at a small country in the Pacific taking a strong stand against nuclear weapons.
“New Zealand has really been a kind of a beacon of hope for a lot of those people,” he said.
New Zealand became a nuclear-free country in 1987, with a Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament and Arms Control Act that effectively banned US nuclear vessels from its waters.
It led to New Zealand being frozen out of the ANZUS security treaty and allowed the country to develop a more independent policy engagement with the Pacific and the rest of the world.
“That came from the government level as well,” Coll said.
“It was a groundswell from the public, which changed our policy, but governments of all stripes up until recently have really not contested that legacy and actually been kind of proud of it. It really is something that sets us apart, especially internationally and we’re respected for it… So, it seems like a real let down that our own government can’t even show up.”
Coll said New Zealand had nurtured a significant link with Nagasaki, being the last place to suffer a nuclear attack in warfare.
“Our former director used to go to Nagasaki. She had very strong connections with the mayor there. There’s actually a sculpture in the Nagasaki Peace Park, given to the city on behalf of New Zealand cities and the New Zealand government back in 2000s, forging that strong connection. It’s called the Korowai of Peace. Phil Goff as foreign minister, the New Zealand ambassador and other civil society people were there… This decision I suspect is a kind of PR and not to attend is a blow to our heritage of promoting disarmament and being anti-nuclear.”
The US envoy to Japan Rahm Emanuel is expected to attend a peace ceremony at the Zojoji Temple in Tokyo on Friday instead.
Nagasaki was bombed by the United States on August 9, 1945, after Hiroshima had been hit by atomic bomb on August 6. The two attacks at the end of World War II killed up to 250,000 people.
Mick Hall is an independent journalist based in New Zealand. He is a former digital journalist at Radio New Zealand (RNZ) and former Australian Associated Press (AAP) staffer, having also written investigative stories for various newspapers, including the New Zealand Herald.
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Labour has complained to the Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission about the high number of non-disclosure agreements that have effectively gagged staff at Te Whatu Ora Health NZ from talking about anything relating to their work. ...2 days ago
- Greens call on Treaty Principles Bill to be abandoned after letter from Christian leaders
The Green Party is once again urging the Prime Minister to abandon the Treaty Principles Bill as a letter from more than 400 Christian leaders calls for the proposed legislation to be dropped. ...2 days ago
- Sign the petition: Keep military-style firearms off our streets
Help us tell the Government that reintroducing military-style firearms should not be up for debate. ...3 days ago
- Vast majority of councils support Māori wards
Councils across the country have now decided where they stand regarding Māori wards, with a resounding majority in favour of keeping them in what is a significant setback for the Government. ...4 days ago
- Release: Government on the wrong side of Māori wards
The National-led government has been given a clear message from the local government sector, as almost all councils reject the Government’s bid to treat Māori wards different to other wards. ...4 days ago
- Release: Labour congratulates Kuīni Ngā Wai hono i te po Paki
The Labour Party congratulates Kuīni Ngā Wai hono i te po Paki on being crowned as the eighth Te Ariki Nui – head of Te Kiingitanga. ...6 days ago
- Green Party welcomes new Maaori Kuiini
The Green Party welcomes the coronation of the new Maaori Kuiini, Te Arikinui Nga Wai Hono i te Po, today in Turangawaewae. ...6 days ago
- ECE teachers deserve better than this Government
The Green Party is unsurprised but disappointed by today’s announcement from the Government that will see our Early Childhood Centre teachers undermined and pay parity pushed further out of reach. ...7 days ago
- Urgent intervention needed on supermarkets
The Green Party is calling on the Government to intervene in the supermarket duopoly dominating our supply of groceries following today’s report from the Commerce Commission. ...7 days ago
- Release: Rainbow youth neglected in mental health funding
Labour backs the call from The Rainbow Support Collective members for mental health funding specifically earmarked for grassroots and peer led community organisations to be set up in a way that they are able to access. ...1 week ago
- Release: Transport in NZ has to be more than just roads
As expected, the National Land Transport Programme lacks ambition for our cities and our country’s rail network and puts the majority of investment into roads. ...1 week ago
- Speech: Barbara Edmonds Building Nations 2024
Tēnā koutou katoa, Thank you for your warm welcome and for having my colleagues and I here today. Earlier you heard from the Labour Leader, Chris Hipkins, on our vision for the future of infrastructure. I want to build on his comments and provide further detail on some key elements ...1 week ago
- Govt transport plan deepens fossil fuel fix
The Green Party says the Government’s new National Land Transport Programme marks another missed opportunity to take meaningful action to fight the climate crisis. ...1 week ago
- Greens call for public to back Wrybill in BOTY and beyond
The Green Party is calling on the public to support the Ngutu Pare Wrybill not just in this year’s Bird of the Year competition but also in pushing back against policies that could lead to the destruction of its habitat and accelerate its extinction. ...1 week ago
- Building consents data bad news for construction
News that the annual number of building consents granted for new homes fell by more than 20 percent for the year ended July 2024, is bad news for the construction industry. ...2 weeks ago
- Te Pāti Māori Pay Tribute to Kiingi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII
Papā te whatitiri, hikohiko te uira, i kanapu ki te rangi, i whētuki i raro rā, rū ana te whenua e. Uea te pou o tōku whare kia tū tangata he kapua whakairi nāku nā runga o Taupiri. Ko taku kiri ka tōkia ki te anu mātao. E te iwi ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Gaps still to be addressed in callouts response
The Government must guarantee New Zealanders will not be at risk after making changes to the way mental health callouts are handled. ...2 weeks ago
- Poroporoaki: Kiingi Tuheitia passing
Haere e te Kīngi o te kotahitangi Haere ki o nui, ki o rahi I te pō ...2 weeks ago
- Green Party pays respects to Kiingi Tuuheitia
The Green Party is paying tribute to the Māori King, Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero XVII, after he passed away earlier this morning. ...2 weeks ago
- Potaka Brings Whakaata Māori to its Knees
Today’s Whakaata Māori announcement is yet another colossal failure from Minister Potaka, who has turned his back on te reo Māori, forcing a channel offline, putting whānau out of jobs, and cutting Māori content, says Te Pāti Māori. “A Senior Māori Minister has turned his back on Te Reo Māori. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: National restricts access to disability care homes
With disability communities still reeling from the diminishing of Whaikaha, a leaked document now reveals another blow with National restricting access to residential care homes. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt must help save 230 manufacturing jobs
Labour is calling on the Government and Mercury Energy to find a solution to the proposed Winstone Pulp mill closure and save 230 manufacturing jobs. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt shirks its responsibility to Whakaata Māori
The Green Party has called out the Government for allowing Whakaata Māori to effectively collapse to a shell of its former self as job cuts and programming cuts were announced at the broadcaster today. ...2 weeks ago
- NZ First Member’s Bill To Disestablish Auckland Transport
Today New Zealand First has introduced a Member’s Bill that will restore democratic control over transport management in Auckland City by disestablishing Auckland Transport (AT) and returning control to Auckland Council. The ‘Local Government (Auckland Council) (Disestablishment of Auckland Transport) Amendment Bill’ intends to restore democratic oversight, control, and accountability ...2 weeks ago - Release: PM fails in constitutional role and leadership
The failure of the Prime Minister to condemn his Minister for personally attacking the judiciary is another example of this Government riding roughshod over important constitutional rules. ...2 weeks ago
- Waititi urges Rotorua Lakes Council to immediately stop works at Lake Rotokākahi
Te Pāti Māori co-leader and Member of Parliament for Waiariki, which includes Rotorua, has written to Rotorua Lakes Councillors requesting they immediately stop sewerage piping works at Lake Rotokākahi in Rotorua. “Mana whenua have been urging Rotorua Lakes Council to stop works and look at alternative plans to protect the ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Patient care at risk from redundancies
Patient care could suffer as a result of further cuts to the health system, which could lose thousands of staff who keep our hospitals and clinics running. ...2 weeks ago
- Greens call on Govt to wake up on child poverty
The Green Party says the latest statistics on child poverty in this country highlight the callous approach that the Government is taking on this issue of national shame. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Police are off the beat under National
Foot patrols around the country have decreased 15 percent since National took office, despite National’s Mark Mitchell claiming otherwise. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Climate denial is an insult to Pacific leaders
Winston Peters’ climate denialism at the Pacific Islands’ Forum is an embarrassing new low. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt must end solitary confinement
The Green Party is urging the Government to end the use of solitary confinement within our prisons after new research revealed some prisoners have been held in confinement for more than 900 days. ...2 weeks ago
- Fossil fuels never the answer in climate crisis
The Government’s moves to enable the import of Liquefied Natural Gas is another step away from the sustainable and affordable energy network that this country needs. ...2 weeks ago
- Government must respect Court’s Uber employee decision
Today’s court ruling upholding the rights of Uber drivers is a message to the Government that it must not tamper with employment protections. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Uber court decision recognises workers’ rights
The Court of Appeal decision that Uber drivers are entitled to employee rights such as minimum wage, sick leave, holiday pay and collective bargaining is welcome news for the drivers involved and their unions. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls on Govt to divest from illegal settlements
The Labour Party is calling on the Government to tell the two major wealth funds, the NZ Super Fund and ACC, to withdraw investments from companies listed by the United Nations as complicit in Israel’s illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt backtrack on fast-track still not enough
Labour welcomes news that the National Government is backing down on its reckless proposal to give Ministers final sign-off on significant projects, but it’s still not enough. ...2 weeks ago
- Fast track still on track to environmental destruction
Our environment remains at risk despite the Government's proposed changes to its controversial fast-track legislation. ...2 weeks ago
- Acknowledgement to Kīngi Tuheitia speech
E te māngai o te Whare Pāremata, kua riro māku te whakaputa i te waka ki waho moana. E te Pirimia tēnā koe.Mr Speaker, it is my privilege to take this adjournment kōrero forward. Prime Minister – thank you for your leadership. Taupiri te maunga Waikato te awa Te Wherowhero ...12 hours ago - Interim fix to GST adjustment rules to support businesses
Inland Revenue can begin processing GST returns for businesses affected by a historic legislative drafting error, Revenue Minister Simon Watts says. “Inland Revenue has become aware of a legislative drafting error in the GST adjustment rules after changes were made in 2023 which were meant to simplify the process. This ...14 hours ago
- Strong uptake for cervical screening self-test
More than 80 per cent of New Zealand women being tested have opted for a world-leading self-test for cervical screening since it became available a year ago. Minister of Health Dr Shane Reti and Associate Minister Casey Costello, in her responsibility for Women’s Health, say it’s fantastic to have such ...16 hours ago
- Ministry for Regulation’s first Strategic Intentions document sets ambitious direction
Regulation Minister David Seymour welcomes the Ministry for Regulation’s first Strategic Intentions document, which sets out how the Ministry will carry out its work and deliver on its purpose. “I have set up the Ministry for Regulation with three tasks. One, to cut existing red tape with sector reviews. Two, ...17 hours ago
- Māori Education Advisory Group established
The Education Minister has established a Māori Education Ministerial Advisory Group made up of experienced practitioners to help improve outcomes for Māori learners. “This group will provide independent advice on all matters related to Māori education in both English medium and Māori medium settings. It will focus on the most impactful ways we can lift ...17 hours ago
- First of five new Hercules aircraft takes flight
Defence Minister Judith Collins today welcomed the first of five new C-130J-30 Hercules to arrive in New Zealand at a ceremony at the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s Base Auckland, Whenuapai. “This is an historic day for our New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and our nation. The new Hercules fleet ...18 hours ago
- Have your say on suicide prevention
Today, September 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to reflect on New Zealand’s confronting suicide statistics, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says. “Every death by suicide is a tragedy – a tragedy that affects far too many of our families and communities in New Zealand. We must do ...19 hours ago
- Action to grow the rural health workforce
Scholarships awarded to 27 health care students is another positive step forward to boost the future rural health workforce, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says. “All New Zealanders deserve timely access to quality health care and this Government is committed to improving health outcomes, particularly for the one in five ...2 days ago
- Pharmac delivering more for Kiwis following major funding boost
Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has welcomed the increased availability of medicines for Kiwis resulting from the Government’s increased investment in Pharmac. “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour. “When our Government assumed office, New ...2 days ago
- Sport Minister congratulates NZ’s Paralympians
Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop has congratulated New Zealand's Paralympic Team at the conclusion of the Paralympic Games in Paris. “The NZ Paralympic Team's success in Paris included fantastic performances, personal best times, New Zealand records and Oceania records all being smashed - and of course, many Kiwis on ...2 days ago
- Government progresses response to Abuse in Care recommendations
A Crown Response Office is being established within the Public Service Commission to drive the Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Abuse in Care. “The creation of an Office within a central Government agency was a key recommendation by the Royal Commission’s final report. “It will have the mandate ...5 days ago
- Passport wait times back on-track
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says passport processing has returned to normal, and the Department of Internal Affairs [Department] is now advising customers to allow up to two weeks to receive their passport. “I am pleased that passport processing is back at target service levels and the Department ...5 days ago
- New appointments to the FMA board
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister has today announced three new appointments and one reappointment to the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) board. Tracey Berry, Nicholas Hegan and Mariette van Ryn have been appointed for a five-year term ending in August 2029, while Chris Swasbrook, who has served as a board member ...5 days ago
- District Court judges appointed
Attorney-General Hon Judith Collins today announced the appointment of two new District Court judges. The appointees, who will take up their roles at the Manukau Court and the Auckland Court in the Accident Compensation Appeal Jurisdiction, are: Jacqui Clark Judge Clark was admitted to the bar in 1988 after graduating ...5 days ago
- Government makes it faster and easier to invest in New Zealand
Associate Minister of Finance David Seymour is encouraged by significant improvements to overseas investment decision timeframes, and the enhanced interest from investors as the Government continues to reform overseas investment. “There were about as many foreign direct investment applications in July and August as there was across the six months ...5 days ago
- New Zealand to join Operation Olympic Defender
New Zealand has accepted an invitation to join US-led multi-national space initiative Operation Olympic Defender, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today. Operation Olympic Defender is designed to coordinate the space capabilities of member nations, enhance the resilience of space-based systems, deter hostile actions in space and reduce the spread of ...6 days ago
- Government commits to ‘stamping out’ foot and mouth disease
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says that a new economic impact analysis report reinforces this government’s commitment to ‘stamp out’ any New Zealand foot and mouth disease incursion. “The new analysis, produced by the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, shows an incursion of the disease in New Zealand would have ...6 days ago
- Improving access to finance for Kiwis
5 September 2024 The Government is progressing further reforms to financial services to make it easier for Kiwis to access finance when they need it, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. “Financial services are foundational for economic success and are woven throughout our lives. Without access to finance our ...6 days ago
- Prime Minister pays tribute to Kiingi Tuheitia
As Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII is laid to rest today, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has paid tribute to a leader whose commitment to Kotahitanga will have a lasting impact on our country. “Kiingi Tuheitia was a humble leader who served his people with wisdom, mana and an unwavering ...6 days ago
- Resource Management reform to make forestry rules clearer
Forestry Minister Todd McClay today announced proposals to reform the resource management system that will provide greater certainty for the forestry sector and help them meet environmental obligations. “The Government has committed to restoring confidence and certainty across the sector by removing unworkable regulatory burden created by the previous ...6 days ago
- More choice and competition in building products
A major shake-up of building products which will make it easier and more affordable to build is on the way, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Today we have introduced legislation that will improve access to a wider variety of quality building products from overseas, giving Kiwis more choice and ...6 days ago
- Joint Statement between the Republic of Korea and New Zealand 4 September 2024, Seoul
On the occasion of the official visit by the Right Honourable Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of New Zealand to the Republic of Korea from 4 to 5 September 2024, a summit meeting was held between His Excellency President Yoon Suk Yeol of the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to as ...6 days ago
- Comprehensive Strategic Partnership the goal for New Zealand and Korea
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Republic of Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol. “Korea and New Zealand are likeminded democracies and natural partners in the Indo Pacific. As such, we have decided to advance discussions on elevating the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive ...6 days ago
- International tourism continuing to bounce back
Results released today from the International Visitor Survey (IVS) confirm international tourism is continuing to bounce back, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Matt Doocey says. The IVS results show that in the June quarter, international tourism contributed $2.6 billion to New Zealand’s economy, an increase of 17 per cent on last ...7 days ago
- Government confirms RMA reforms to drive primary sector efficiency
The Government is moving to review and update national level policy directives that impact the primary sector, as part of its work to get Wellington out of farming. “The primary sector has been weighed down by unworkable and costly regulation for too long,” Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. “That is ...7 days ago
- Weak grocery competition underscores importance of cutting red tape
The first annual grocery report underscores the need for reforms to cut red tape and promote competition, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. “The report paints a concerning picture of the $25 billion grocery sector and reinforces the need for stronger regulatory action, coupled with an ambitious, economy-wide ...7 days ago
- Government moves to lessen burden of reliever costs on ECE services
Associate Education Minister David Seymour says the Government has listened to the early childhood education sector’s calls to simplify paying ECE relief teachers. Today two simple changes that will reduce red tape for ECEs are being announced, in the run-up to larger changes that will come in time from the ...7 days ago
- Over 2,320 people engage with first sector regulatory review
Regulation Minister David Seymour says there has been a strong response to the Ministry for Regulation’s public consultation on the early childhood education regulatory review, affirming the need for action in reducing regulatory burden. “Over 2,320 submissions have been received from parents, teachers, centre owners, child advocacy groups, unions, research ...7 days ago
- Government backs women in horticulture
“The Government is empowering women in the horticulture industry by funding an initiative that will support networking and career progression,” Associate Minister of Agriculture, Nicola Grigg says. “Women currently make up around half of the horticulture workforce, but only 20 per cent of leadership roles which is why initiatives like this ...7 days ago
- Government to pause freshwater farm plan rollout
The Government will pause the rollout of freshwater farm plans until system improvements are finalised, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today. “Improving the freshwater farm plan system to make it more cost-effective and practical for farmers is a priority for this ...1 week ago
- Milestone reached for fixing the Holidays Act 2003
Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden says yesterday Cabinet reached another milestone on fixing the Holidays Act with approval of the consultation exposure draft of the Bill ready for release next week to participants. “This Government will improve the Holidays Act with the help of businesses, workers, and ...1 week ago
- New priorities to protect future of conservation
Toitū te marae a Tāne Mahuta me Hineahuone, toitū te marae a Tangaroa me Hinemoana, toitū te taiao, toitū te tangata. The Government has introduced clear priorities to modernise Te Papa Atawhai - The Department of Conservation’s protection of our natural taonga. “Te Papa Atawhai manages nearly a third of our ...1 week ago
- Faster 110km/h speed limit to accelerate Kāpiti
A new 110km/h speed limit for the Kāpiti Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) has been approved to reduce travel times for Kiwis travelling in and out of Wellington, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy. ...1 week ago
- IVL increase to ensure visitors contribute more to New Zealand
The International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) will be raised to $100 to ensure visitors contribute to public services and high-quality experiences while visiting New Zealand, Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Matt Doocey and Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka say. “The Government is serious about enabling the tourism sector ...1 week ago
- Delivering priority connections for the West Coast
A record $255 million for transport investment on the West Coast through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the region’s road and rail links to keep people connected and support the region’s economy, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The Government is committed to making sure that every ...1 week ago
- Road and rail reliability a focus for Wellington
A record $3.3 billion of transport investment in Greater Wellington through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will increase productivity and reduce travel times, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering infrastructure to increase productivity and economic growth is a priority for our Government. We're focused on delivering transport projects ...1 week ago
- Record investment to boost economic and housing growth in the Waikato
A record $1.9 billion for transport investment in the Waikato through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more efficient, safe, and resilient roading network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “With almost a third of the country’s freight travelling into, out ...1 week ago
- Building reliable and efficient roading for Taranaki
A record $808 million for transport investment in Taranaki through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Taranaki’s roads carry a high volume of freight from primary industries and it’s critical we maintain efficient connections across the region to ...1 week ago
- Supporting growth and resilience in Otago and Southland
A record $1.4 billion for transport investment in Otago and Southland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will create a more resilient and efficient network that supports economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Transport is a critical enabler for economic growth and productivity in Otago ...1 week ago
- Delivering connected and resilient roading for Northland
A record $991 million for transport investment in Northland through the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) will strengthen the region’s connections and support economic growth and productivity, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “We are committed to making sure that every transport dollar is spent wisely on the projects and ...1 week ago
- Student pressure forces Victoria University Foundation to divest from Israeli bonds
Student Justice for Palestine Pōneke After almost a year of consistent pressure from the student body, the Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) Foundation has announced its divestment from all Israeli government bonds and shares of companies listed in Israel. The foundation had previously reported having close to $50,000 invested in ...4 hours ago - Many strata managers who handle apartments are conflicted: here’s how
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hazel Easthope, Professor, City Futures Research Centre, UNSW Sydney ProximaStudio/Shutterstock Ten of Australia’s leading consumer groups have now written to the federal treasurer calling for an urgent inquiry into Australia’s strata management industry. The open letter from Choice, the Owners Corporation ...6 hours ago
- View from the Hill: Social media age ban all to the good, but can Albanese deliver before election?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been late out of the blocks on a ban on children accessing social media. Now that he has promised to act, pledging to introduce legislation this year, the question is ...6 hours ago
- Politics with Michelle Grattan: Robert French on the realities of a social media age ban
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Albanese government has announced it will ban children from accessing social media. This follows work by the South Australian government, which commissioned a report on implementing a ban. That report was done by ...6 hours ago
- Parliament honours Kiingi Tuheitia
The House - Parliament met briefly today, and only to offer respects to the late Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII. ...7 hours ago - Sewage doesn’t put Labour MP Greg O’Connor off swimming in Wellington Harbour
Asked if he would swim in the harbour if there was sewage, Greg O'Connor said: "Yeah, I do." But Chris Hipkins said he "probably" would not. ...8 hours ago
- 1.2 billion young people will need a job in the next 10 years. The World Bank is trying to help them...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Melissa Conley Tyler, Honorary Fellow, Asia Institute, The University of Melbourne World Bank president Ajay Banga is in Canberra this week. It’s the first time a World Bank president has visited Australia in seven years. Why is he here? It goes to ...9 hours ago
- Methane emissions are at new highs. It could put us on a dangerous climate path
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pep Canadell, Chief Research Scientist, CSIRO Environment; Executive Director, Global Carbon Project, CSIRO Ramon Cliff/Shutterstock The goal of the 2021 Global Methane Pledge is bold: cut methane emissions by 30% by the end of the decade. This is to buy us ...10 hours ago
- What causes food cravings? And what can we do about them?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabrielle Weidemann, Associate Professor in Psychological Science, Western Sydney University Fascinadora/Shutterstock Many of us try to eat more fruits and vegetables and less ultra-processed food. But why is sticking to your goals so hard? High-fat, sugar-rich and salty foods are simply ...10 hours ago
- We found one in six Australian reptile species traded as pets overseas, despite the export ban
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Chekunov, PhD Candidate, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide Sebastian Chekunov Trade in “exotic” pets from foreign countries is a global multibillion-dollar industry. Australian species are highly sought after. Australia banned the commercial export of all live native animals ...11 hours ago
- Coalition torpedoes bipartisan deal on Reserve Bank monetary policy board
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The federal opposition has torpedoed Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ attempt to get a bipartisan deal to install a specialist monetary policy board in the Reserve Bank, claiming the reform would enable the treasurer to “stack” the ...11 hours ago
- Social media is like sex – young people need education, not unrealistic bans
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanne Orlando, Researcher: Digital Literacy and Digital Wellbeing, Western Sydney University LBeddoe/Shutterstock The federal government has committed to a national plan to ban children from social media. Details are still scarce. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has acknowledged that “no government ...11 hours ago
- Kids are digital natives. They have ideas to help protect children from being harmed online
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Faith Gordon, Associate Professor in Law, Australian National University Shutterstock The vast expanse of internet connectivity, online media, social media platforms, gaming platforms, and new forms and uses of artificial intelligence (AI) have opened enormous opportunities for commerce and communication. ...12 hours ago
- Former political figure convicted of indecent assault has name suppression lifted, still can’t...
The man has been found guilty on eight charges of sexual assault dating back to the 1990s. ...12 hours ago
- Gang, gun law changes ‘absolutely’ followed correct process – Luxon
The opposition is criticisng the government over two last-minute changes to legislation being added with little or no consultation. ...13 hours ago
- ‘I fucking forgot how the song goes’: A review of Fur Patrol in 2024
On Saturday night, almost a quarter century after the release of their hit single, a reunited Fur Patrol played to a packed out Double Whammy. Did they still have it? I had homework to do. I opened up Spotify, typed in Fur Patrol. There was ‘Lydia’ at the number one ...13 hours ago - The documentary Killjoy captures the personal and the political of family violence and gender activi...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sharon Crozier-De Rosa, Professor in History, University of Wollongong Stan At 16, Kathryn Joy applied for a passport. To do this, they had to obtain their mother’s death certificate. After growing up in a house in which their father had killed ...13 hours ago
- James Earl Jones has died – but as the voice of Darth Vader, he will live forever
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Golding, Associate Professor, Swinburne University of Technology It is difficult to imagine a world of pop culture villains without Darth Vader. The masked and cloaked figure now casts perhaps the longest shadow of any film character on popular culture. When Vader ...13 hours ago
- ‘There’s coal and there’s coal’ – Climate Minister defends opening up ...
"The coal we produce in New Zealand, in the South Island, isn't used to be burned at Huntly - it's used to put in your mobile phone that's right in front of you," Simon Watts says. ...13 hours ago
- Gang, gun law changes ‘absolutely’ followed process – Luxon
The opposition is criticisng the government over two last-minute changes to legislation being added with little or no consultation. ...14 hours ago
- Are New Zealanders ‘sick and tired’ of spending on cycleways? Not according to this surv...
Analysis - The transport minister's claim is not backed up by the facts, a survey shows. ...14 hours ago
- Treaty Principles Bill: Shane Reti urges people to ‘bring respect to this debate’
The health minister is worried about the tone and nature it might take in coming months as the controversial Treaty Principles Bill heads to Parliament. ...14 hours ago
- Why do I need to take some medicines with food?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mary Bushell, Clinical Associate Professor in Pharmacy, University of Canberra Ron Lach/Pexels Have you ever been instructed to take your medicine with food and wondered why? Perhaps you’ve wondered if you really need to? There are varied reasons, and sometimes complex ...14 hours ago
- Are New Zealanders ‘sick and tired’ of spending on cycleways? Not according to this survey
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sam Crawley, Teaching Fellow, School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington Getty Images Many more New Zealanders now choose to get around by bike than a few years ago. A Ministry ...15 hours ago
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A chain of three cafes closed down and the owner blamed cycleways. But none of the cafes were anywhere near one. What is happening? Joel MacManus investigates. Last week, the people of Wellington reacted with shock to the news that Pandoro Panetteria would be closing its three cafe and bakery ...15 hours ago
- ‘Out of line, out of order’: PM slams doctors for prioritising young Māori and Pasifika
"We have a very simple approach to healthcare which is based off need, not ethnicity or race," Christopher Luxon says after the government stepped in at Hawke's Bay . ...15 hours ago
- What’s the difference between MSG and table salt? A chemist explains
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nathan Kilah, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, University of Tasmania Nenov Brothers Images/Shutterstock It’s dinner time. You’ve worked hard to prepare a nutritious and tasty meal. But after taking your first bite you feel something is missing. Perhaps you should have added ...15 hours ago
- Health Minister assured services safe at Rotorua ED despite patient death
Shane Reti said he was sorry to hear of the "very unfortunate episode" but would not comment on whether it showed a system in crisis. ...15 hours ago
- New Caledonia crisis: Another church burns, spate of attacks continues
ANALYSIS: By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk Another church has been set alight in New Caledonia, confirming a trend of arson which has already destroyed five Catholic churches and missions over the past two months. The latest fire took place on Sunday evening at the iconic Saint ...15 hours ago
- New research suggests concussion risks can be outweighed by the benefits of playing sport
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Matt Lennon, Conjoint Lecturer, UNSW Sydney Fotokostic/Shutterstock CTE: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. It is the now popularised term that makes athletes, parents, sports administrators and insurers’ knuckles white with anxiety as sports codes struggle to come to grips with the risks ...16 hours ago
- Takeout Kids: Phitcha
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Step by tiny step, we edge closer to doing the bidding of the USA!
Luxon really needs to have a few stern words (ha ha!) with his foreign minister!
If Winnie takes us too far into the political orbit of AUKUS, it might have ramifications for our trade with China.
China could close the door on NZ and not even notice! Not so our exporters!
Another mis-step by the Coalition of Chaos. Bring on October 2026 so we can make them a one term government.
A bit of a snub, considering NZ had 12,000 Defense Force personnel in Japan after WWII. A bit of a courtesy, and also a great time to take a political stand on the use of nuclear irradiation as a weapon, as Russia attacks the surroundings of Chernobyl again in the Ukraine.
K Force sent rugby teams to Japan in the 50's – the non (nuclear weapons) proliferation agreement breaches by North Korea and their firing missiles off at Japan.
Anyone who doesn't support the Palestinians at this stage is morally bankrupt. Accounts for this action by the NZ Govt.
This is the first significant evidence of a lack of independence in our foreign policy under the C of C.
It undermines our nuclear free South Pacific position and undermines our position on nuclear weapon disarmament (esp as per North Korea).
And to do so because Israel is not invited while – it has nuclear weapons post the non proliferation agreement and is involved in ICC matters, well it signals total capitulation to power (right or wrong) rather than a principled position is becoming our new norm – as at home, abroad, I suppose for the C of C.
Lying bunch of bastards. I would have more respect for them if they told the truth. Of course it is not in their make-up to tell the truth so they wouldn't even know how.
Well I guess it’s par for the course for New Zealand, we didn’t send an official representative to the memorial marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Luxon has just returned from a business junket (as he has described previous such trips) to Japan but can't even generate the courtesy to pay respect to the mass destruction of life in Nagasaki. For lack of resources??! How many died again? but oh sorry we just cant afford the train ticket from Tokyo??! Oh but by the way, we're kinda desperate to trade with you. What with China likely to rethink their trade position and all…
Good letter. I'd have preferred it if our govt had decided to be a signatory to it rather than trying to pretend it doesn't have anyone it can send.
Israel is not compliant with an ICC directive (even two the Israeli judge on it agreed with – aid delivery and incitement and the Israeli Security Minister is still in breach) and there is the non proliferation matter as well.
The excess as per loss of civilian life has led reservists to say they would rather go to prison than serve in that way again.
People have opinions, yes.
The snubbing of the Nagasaki bombing commemoration by this country because of Israel's exclusion, follows the NZDF attending war training with Israel's inclusion in the RIMPAC military exercise concluded last week.
The death toll from the Israeli bombing campaign in Gaza is approaching the 40.000 killed in Nagasaki, by the atomic bomb blast.
Ever since the end of the Cold War the superpowers have been practicing and training to explore to fight a global war against each other without resorting to nuclear weapons.
This is the sort of valuable experience the Israeli military brought to the other RIMPAC military forces, including the NZDF.
Of course many more were killed by radiation poisoning than the initial atomic blast. The Israelis may well achieve the same death toll through famine and disease, by systematically destroying all medical facilities, all water and sewerage treatment, all agriculture and blocking food aid.
The value of the Israeli expertise in killing such large numbers of civilians with out resorting to nuclear weapons will not be lost on the other RIMPAC members.
NZ checks our morality at the door, in Nagasaki, and our legality at the door in RIMPAC
The obvious lie over a lack of resources being behind our snubbing of the Nagasaki atomic bombing commemoration, is probably motivated by a desire by this government to hide our complicity in the genocide being conducted by Israel in Gaza.
Are we complicit?
You can wish the NZ Govt would back the wrong side in Gaza all you like, it isn't going to, no matter which party's running things (unless the Greens become the govt, I guess, but that isn't likely). The propaganda about "genocide" only works on people who are either ignorant of the situation or already ideologically hostile to Israel's existence.
I don’t think the USA, UK or NZ needs any tips from Israel on killing large numbers of civilians. We did that on a daily or nightly basis to Nazi Germany during World War Two. I believe the bombing of Dresden in 1945 killed about 25,000 to 30,000 in one night. However the real experts in mass killings and getting away with it must be the Soviet Union and China.
Modern rival superpowers are exploring ways to fight World War III without resorting to the use of nuclear weapons to avoid the threat of M.A.D. which nuclear weapons pose to both sides..
In a departure from usual practice the RIMPAC war games had a big disaster relief training component.
This should not come as a surprise, – Russia's war against Ukraine and Israel's war against Gaza with the total destruction of civilian infrastructure as a tactic is demonstrating how World War III will be fought.
Addressing and remediating man made disaster on the scale Mariupol and Gaza will have to be part of the plan, if you want to keep your country in the fight.
Personally I think we should not turn our back on the lesson of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Nuclear weapons still pose a threat. Even the best laid plans for fighting the next global war could escalate out of control, and nuclear weapons either in desperation in the heat of battle, or unintentionally by human error could be resorted to.
Lest We Remember
Questions our mainstream media journalists won't be asking our PM
Will New Zealand be boycotting any other World War II commemorations if Israel is not invited?
Might the same question, (framed more diplomatically) be a suitable query for a Green or Labour Party opposition MP to put to the government during parliamentary 'Question Time'.
I doubt you'll get any takers for that question, because the answer would be "This govt hasn't and won't 'boycott' WW2 commemorations" and the questioner doesn't really have any follow-up from there.
Can the Minister give an assurance to the house, ‘That New Zealand will not boycott World War II commemorations, that exclude Israel?
That's the answer we want.
The point of the question, Psycho, is to get the government on the record as saying they won't pull any shifty stunts like this again.
That's the answer we want…..
To which I might add, I would expect a completely different answer to this question, if it were put to the US and Canadian governments, who openly admitted to boycotting the Nagasaki commemoration because Israel wasn't invited.
I think, if they were pressed, their answer would be, 'Yes we will boycott any future World War Two commemorations tat exclude Israel'
Maybe Psycho, you could tell us what you think these two governments, answer would be, to whether they will be boycotting any future WW2 commemorations that exclude Israel?
It's a remarkably silly question.
The 'boycott' is an operational decision for the embassy concerned. They chose not to attend (as many other embassies choose not to attend local or even international memorial events).
It's a storm in a teacup. And not one that anyone in NZ is interested in wasting the limited bandwidth of the public attention span on.
Really, with the alarm being expressed at the changes to social support systems, education and health in NZ – you want the GP (or any other party) to waste time expressing indignation about something which has zero impact on New Zealanders?
You asked me;
My answer;
Apartheid in South Africa had zero impact on New Zealanders. But tens of thousands of New Zealanders didn't think it was a waste of time expressing their indignation.
Prime Minister Ardern on the importance of standing up against injustice and human rights abuses wherever they occur in the world, then, now and always.
Yes, I do want the GP (or any other party) expressing indignation about something which has zero impact on New Zealanders. 'No man is an island' as the metaphor goes. Metaphorically not even an island country is an island.
Based on the response rate to your posts, you're pretty much alone in your expectations.
New Zealand the embarrassing Claytons country
The boycott you join, without joining the boycott.
Not having the courage to stand with the G7 boycott openly, New Zealand humiliates itself on the world stage by inventing a feeble excuse for our diplomats to join the G7 boycott surreptitiously.
Dictionary
Definitions from Oxford Languages · Learn more
surreptitiously
adverb
"Mary surreptitiously slipped from the room"