Of course you fail to mention that any Left Wing project that gets fairly elected in Latin America will be instantly made to suffer terribly through all kinds of nefarious mean and ways by the neo liberal imperilaists and their cronies, so neither you nor I can ever know how any Left Wing project would either sink or swim on their own merits or lack of such…but the same cannot be said of failures of the extreme and brutal Right wing Governments from those same regions, whom your liberal governments supports….
"Participation of the United States in regime change in Latin America involved US-backed coups d'état aimed at replacing left-wing leaders with right-wing leaders, military juntas, or other authoritarian regimes"
Seriously? The Northern Pathway for a cyclists' harbour crossing? It's an eyesore totally destroying what is an iconic Auckland view of the existing Harbour Bridge.
A bridge for cyclists and walkers could have benefits. Reduce traffic on the already struggling Auckland Harbour Bridge. Reduce carbon emissions. Joggers and walkers would keep fit. A tourist attraction with a few cafes along the way. The Green Party would be a more likely coalition party as the government would be seen as delivering on reducing emissions. Employ people in the building. The cost means the project could be started sooner than later.
Some sort of two way vehicle lane would need to be constructed in the project as a back up for essential vehicles were a major closure of the existing Auckland Harbour Bridge to occur.
I have no argument with that. Totally agree. My point is, however, that this design in this place totally destroys what has become an iconic Auckland landmark. An absolute cockup.
edit
Sounds sensible to the core Treetop. I recommend that it go up for government tick and then be costed. Where would it start and finish Treetop? If close enough to the present but further enough to diminish traffic from just near the present bridge, it could use present motorway for approach.
Could the approach be up Curran Street, turn into Sarsfield Streeet and then from a point there across to Chelsea by the Sugar Refining and through the Chelsea Heritage Park which sounds nice.
It could have a pillar near with ladder-path down to Watchmans Island which could have some hardy bushes planted there and be a stopping off spot for picnics etc which would probably please the locals as it has deteriorated over the years.
Then over to Chelsea and join up with Colonial Road. Or alternatively it might go to Hinemoa Park and up to Birkenhead.
Or could it go off Tamaki Drive at the end of Mechanics Bay (not owned by Ports of Auckland) and go across to Bayswater and up Bayswater Avenue or up Norwood Road, perhaps with an exit that goes off at Stanley Point to the naval base at Devonport, which would be good quick access for them.
Let’s stop worrying about the aesthetics. Let us have a serviceable bridge that doesn’t cost too much, and we will love it. And perhaps we can paint it a different colour every five years or so, while we are giving it a regular maintenance check. Think safety, longevity and if you don’t like the aesthetics make little models of what you would like, or paintings, and make a feature of that to sell to people. The difference of opinion can be taken to extreme and people could design one made of live willow branches or something. But keep practical – it is people who wanted Mediterranean aesthetics who got the leaky buildings thing going. Let’s be wary of looks, and go to the foundations and materials and wind resistance etc etc.
That was an example of how citizens have to put their minds to visioning practical things they want. We can't just set up wishlists and hope government will do the right thing. We must take part in government, go forward with government not just be supplicants being handed things by the 'kindly and wise' PTB.
What is it we want. where, and who and what will it serve? How much, is there an easier cheaper way? Who will be disadvantaged and how much? How can that be mitigated? We can get through the decision barrier that those with power are in. Make a mistake and they can be out of a job, or no further contracts; decision might be to put if off for further study and information, and keep getting the largesse of the moment.
Yeah, I look at this picture and just think, instead of building a biking bridge alongside, just build a whole new, spectacular bridge alongside with biking lanes on it. Then demolish the crappy old one.
Yes the Chelsea refinery…couple of ships a month maybe?
I'm no bridge expert but my guess is that flatter bridges are cheaper to build, more stable, and are probably much better on fuel consumption for users.
Oh weelll sounds okay. I am just exercised at the moment about all the things that those in power are going to build – it seems cost is no worry, and of course they will be interesting things, not like tiny houses or affordable homes for people to rent/buy. Sorry to bite as it is probably a secret wish of mine and for many of us that we could for once make something happen that needs to. Has anyone thought of a stadium that converts to bed sitting rooms after 10 pm for instance. Hah hah.
Good point about the real urgency being ignored on affordable housing and other even less glamourous stuff than that, water infrastructure, etc, seemingly in favour of big, visible projects like this.
However, if we are determined as a nation to dramatically increase or population then transport infrastructure planning is also vital. It is something we have always done very, very poorly.
I don't even mind about cost, I just want it done once and done right. Maybe some of these hotshot Covid refugees who have returned home in their tens of thousands can set us straight!
What about cyclists crossing by ferry as part of the transport structure so you are not left to the profitable constraints of ferry owners as the Waiheke Islanders have suffered? I fondly remember the ferries from Bayswater chugging across the water. They did so in a regular pattern and could be relied on for time for those working on the other side – the City or North Shore.
There could even be uber-boaters but they would have to be watched for seaworthiness. Or they could be boat owners who ran themselves to work and took regular passengers with them on a season ticket arrangement. They would be given the sort of tax allowances that the rentier landlords and house owners get now.
And what do other people in cities by the sea do? We seem to look at dysfunctional USA for models of how to mistreat people. Can we look away to other countries, probably European or perhaps Singapore and Hong Kong, for the clued-up cities on how they run things effectively at reasonable cost?
I'm not sure why a couple of light composite tubes can't be slung underneath for cycle traffic – one for each direction. Must be cheaper than new crossings, and not disruptive to existing use.
Funny how confirmation bias works. I thought for you suggest compost-able tubes for cyclists. Probably cheaper and more user friendly than other solutions.
Ad I think you want to use semaphore signals to wake people up to what is coming and needed for the future. But you are apparently prepared to do that by demolishing systems and structures while they are still needed. Bad as Roger Douglas you are. That comment yesterday about Marsden Point close-down did not convince me of the practicality and far-seeing nature of whatever committee you are on.
Like most motorways the Auckland Harbour Bridge doesn't lend itself to being retrofitted for bikes and pedestrian traffic, The traditional answer has been to construct separate cycleways to the side. And this is being done on the Southern and Western motorways. But the Harbour Bridge presents a unique problem.
There was a plan to build a sky-path for cyclists and pedestrians under or beside the main carriageway. But it proved to be a hugely complicated and expensive engineering project.
The engineering nightmare that was the sky-path has been ditched.
Taking a lane for a bikeway is not practical.
The new plan is for a new and separate bike and pedestrian bridge to be built beside the existing bridge.
When he was Prime Minister John Key announced the construction of $7 billion road tunnel under the harbour.
This plan did not survive the change in government
With a price tag of $250 million and a delivery date of 5 years, I doubt whether this latest plan for a pedestrian and cycle bridge would survive a change of government either.
A fare free busway with an option for bicycle stowage is a far cheaper solution and can be implemented immediately. All of the infrastructure is already there
"He also revealed that Waka Kotahi has considered getting bikes across the bridge using gondolas and a dedicated ferry or bus service. However, all those options were rejected."
He is Michael Wood, Minister of Transport.
It was your big suggestion here on Sunday, I suggest you make an OIA request.
On Sunday you also said "There will not be a three month bike lane trial. There will not even be a one week bike lane trial."
And yet that Herald story also quotes the Minister as saying
"With the new bridge five years away, Wood also said he had asked Waka Kotahi to present him with options for a cycling and walking lane on the current bridge now. This would involve a trial conversion of an existing vehicle lane or lanes."
and
"Waka Kotahi will continue to work on how to provide safe temporary trials of using lanes on the existing harbour bridge for cyclists and pedestrians," Wood said.
This latest proposal has succeeded in uniting cyclists and truckers, (and possibly everyone in between) in opposing the proposed bike pedestrian bridge.
Because when you try to please everybody, you end up pleasing nobody.
At least now we know what we all don't like, and we all don't like this.
Auckland harbour cycle and pedestrian bridge facing criticism from both sides
A cycling advocate says building an entire bridge from the ground up – at a cost of at least $780 million – is totally unnecessary when cyclists and walkers could just have a lane on the existing Auckland harbour bridge.
And a trucking leader says the priorities are backwards – a new harbour crossing for vehicles should be first, not a few cyclists.
Of course there is, (as there always is), ideologues that can be counted on to endorse something like this. The good thing is that at least the spokesperson for this minority are honest in admitting that the proposed bike pedestrian bridge is nothing to do with relieving or even addressing Auckland's traffic woes.
Auckland harbour cycle and pedestrian bridge facing criticism from both sides
"I think we're underestimating the fact that people will use it just for the joy of being able to walk over the water, to stop in the middle of the bridge, take photos, to go over on a jog in the morning, walk their dog, take their kids over… I think people are underestimating how popular a bridge like that would be."
National Party candidate makes world news headlines for his revenge porn scandal .
Collins looks like a goner.She looked 10 years older last night on TV desperately avoiding any responsibility when questioned last night
Collins big talking at the recent queenstown conference where Bazant was one of the headline acts a rising star the new young face of the National Party .Has turned into a complete disaster.
[putting you on the ban list. Really happy to let you out when you reply to this mod note. I need to have a conversation with you, so you will need to check replies to your comments before I will end the ban. I will keep an eye out for your comments in the Trash.
Former or ex-National Party candidate, to be more precise.
Collins’s responsibility lies with the future of the Party, not so much the past, which cannot be undone. She has the top-secret review reports; she knows what needs to be done. A real Leader has what it takes to do what needs to be done. Crickets.
Nicola Willis, please step forward and up, and save the Party from more self-inflicted embarrassment and pain.
These scandals are useful as an opportunity for an outsider to snatch a glimpse into the fetid mind of the National party politician…..confirming what we already know is their primary thought pattern, just nasty shit.
Thanks Ghost and Grey for your messages about the Vaccine Stab number yesterday. I got a call in but no reply as yet. In no hurry anyway would rather it went to someone younger who may be more vulnerable.
Depending upon what group you are in you might not want to get too excited about getting any reply at all before summer arrives.
If you are in the most at risk group, the immediate frontline workers, it appears that only about 60% of them have had even a first dose. In the next category, the household members of the most at risk people, less than 50% have had a first dose.
Group 2, which is the frontline health workers, people living or working in long-term residential care, older Maori and Pacific people and those over 65 living in Counties Manakau has only had about 40% who have received a first dose.
For those of us who are over 65 but aren't Maori or Pacific people only about 4% have had a first dose. These were the ones who were supposedly going to be able to get vaccinated starting at the beginning of last month remember. That date of course then slipped back and appears to be slipping further.
The Government Health Ministers seem to be quite happy. ""Our plan to vaccinate New Zealanders is on track," Dr Ayesha Verrall". Well I suppose she would say that. She has been vaccinated.
Ashley Bloomfield is also quite happy about the situation it would seem.
"Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said on Thursday he's happy with the progress.
"I think what we're seeing is ongoing increased uptake amongst our priority groups."
Meanwhile, while the vast majority of us haven't been vaccinated, our Government is going to allow people in from Melbourne next week without any form of quarantine. The people involved chose to go there. Either stay there or go into quarantine when you get back should be their options. When the elderly, like me, have had a chance to get vaccinated they can open up the borders. Until then to hell with it.
In the meantime you probably shouldn't get too excited about getting anything. My local DHB said early this week that they had no idea when vaccination might be available. My Medical Centre also say they haven't been told anything and they have no idea what is going on.
my BiL and his wife – both in their forties and in no group of anything – had their vaccination last week in Whangarai as walk ins.
His mother and father, both in their seventies, she is Pakeha and he is Maori, have yet to get a notification of being even on some list, they are in Whakatane.
Here in Rotorua, who knows.
i agree that the border should be closed again until a few more people here have had their jab.
As for those that don't want the jab, who cares, leave them be, and vaccinated those that want to be vaccinated.
No sign of vaccination for my 90 year old Parents (one with hypertension & diabetes).
In most Anglosphere Countries, the elderly were placed in the second group to be vaccinated rather than thrown in with over 65s in general in Group 3 … with the really high-risk over 80s (those with comorbidities) right at the front of the Group 2 queue … we apparently do things differently here …
Meanwhile, widespread complacency around the threat posed by the new dangerous Covid variants continues unabated.
Auckland resident Andrew Johnson aired his concerns after he arrived at the city's CBD vaccination centre for his first jab at the Atrium on Elliott shopping centre on Monday.
Entering from Albert St as opposed to the Elliott St entrance, the 41-year-old was shocked when he realised he was walking past potentially infectious MIQ residents in the exercise area at the Crowne Plaza hotel, which was in the same building complex as the shopping mall.
His comment is a rubbish reckon from a guy exercising his white privilege to have a whine and get it reported in the Herald, the home of the relentless middle class whinge about everything.
So what if it is next to an MIQ facility? Journalists in their stampede to get the next alarmist reckon from a know nothing have forgotten to ask the most basic of questions – like has anyone, anywhere in NZ in the past year, ever caught covid by walking past a MIQ hotel? The answer of course is NO.
It is interesting they’ve removed from earlier stories his complaint that no one was being scanned, something in my experience of getting vaccinated (twice now) is simply an outright untruth.
You could criticise that it is hard to get to if you are disabled and poorly signposted/a bit hard to find from the advertised Elliot street entrance, but no some wally get to have a free bitch about… nothing really.
Sanctuary I don't know how your comment sits in with the recent media release about the aerosol effect of people just passing by with the more infection strain.
And has everyone noted how there isn't a new super infectious strain in Victoria. It seems to have been a fib by the pollie in charge feeling the heat of failure. It is such a hot country, Australia.
swordfish Sorry to hear about your parents waiting. I hope they have better neighbours now.
As for the way that Covid 19 treatment has slid back it probably means that it is back with the backsliders down in the bowels of the MoH. When the leaders were appearing before cameras they would have been on their toes. Now the MoH has taken to printing an enormous number of leaflets and full page adverts in the papers and probably on tv?
Trouble is that people don't know what to think, don't read the papers, or have time – it is a very passive approach that is so efficient for man/womanpower but not for the actual outcome of message received by those who need it the most. What do generic managers do when there is a human mass outbreak of sickness? Sit at their computers and work out the odds for people dying for each possible method used, and then work out the 'mean' figure showing the least financial cost?
Well I can't remember which media I read that there was not a new strain in Victoria but it was wrong. So should I start wearing my mask all the time when mixing? Seriously I should I suppose. And the epidemiologist Baker says that all the border workers and others involved haven't been vaccinated – still thousands to go. And what about GPs, we heard that they have been neglected. Really, if you take your eye off government they wander off into the woods and get lost!
No, the nightmare continues unfortunately. We thought it was all over right at the start of November last year when their violent intensely anti-social neighbour moved out, swapping houses with what we believe was his grandmother … massive relief for everyone (including other neighbours) … he was now living more than an hour away & the older lady was extremely quiet (so my Parents feeling safe, no enforced chronic sleep deprivation, no intense stress … & peace of mind for the first time in 3 years) … but only lasted 6 weeks … gave everyone a real shock when he suddenly turned up in the early hours of Boxing Day nonchalantly inflicting his usual anti-social behaviour / noise / aggression as if nothing had changed.
My 90 year old Mother has had to be hospitalised twice since Oct 2020 for very high blood pressure & low oxygen saturation levels (bordering on mini-stoke territory) from extreme stress & sleep deprivation (both his violent explosions/noise & his kids (increasingly dropped there) running wild at all hours … really raucous relentless in-your-face noise levels right through to late at night, Parents can't escape it even in rooms away from dividing-wall with doors closed) …
… She almost died in Wellington Hospital the day after the 2020 Election … but on Election Day was more concerned about casting her vote for the Labour Party she'd spent her life both supporting & being active within rather than worrying about her own health.
This'd be the Labour Party with its tacit No Eviction policy & its affluent, Woke New Middle Class activist base romanticising people like the intensely anti-social Underclass Neighbour while systematically demonizing & scapegoating elderly poorer Pakeha, including lifelong Labour voters. Unfortunately, being white they're members of the ID Politics 'out-groups' currently being quietly but rapidly transformed (largely by Pakeha from financially-privileged backgrounds) into 2nd class citizens.
Or, to put it another way, those Pakeha who have disproportionately inherited the wealth from Colonisation forcing those Pakeha (& other non-Maori) who haven't to do all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering … as they go about establishing this Brave New Woke World, bereft of universal human rights, equal citizenship & other core principles of liberal democracy.
Ironic given my Parents history of marching against Springbok Tours (1960 / 76 / 81) & my Mother being one of the first Pakeha to learn Te Reo in a formal educational setting (as a teenager at a Wellington Educational Institute's night classes in 1948). At the age of 90 she now gets to enjoy relentless stress from an extremely violent Maori man (who never has to suffer any consequences = because Colonisation) & his clearly deeply dysfunctional family while the ex-boarding school Woke Cadre get to ostentatiously posture & pose as heroic "anti-racists" (according to deeply warped Critical Race Theory dogma) while continuing to enjoy all the inherited fruits of Colonisation (while also bravely ensuring they're living at least 20 miles away from the mayhem they've helped to create through crude social housing policies in previously peaceful, community-minded & for the most part Labour-voting neighbourhoods).
I am bitter about this too swordfish. See it all the time, where people are trying to transform the world that has been mostly good but they want to trash it and start again on a different set of tracks. We are to be derailed and left in a siding to stew in our own juice.
They don't try to clean the bad up, keep the good and change habits to improve society, they just want to trash the lot and start again FGS. It took centuries and many people worked all their lives to get civilisation to the present era, at a level that decent people could be happy about.
Now this type of activist person likely meditate when they get distressed and remove themselves from the everyday, and come back with fantastical ideas that they have absorbed in overwhelming belief. Their drive is similar to that of economists to change humans' behaviour to fit their models. I don't think they really like people though they profess to be 'caring and concerned'; again like economists they are in love with their models and designs, people's and the planet's actual needs are often at opposite positions.
"Or, to put it another way, those Pakeha who have disproportionately inherited the wealth from Colonisation forcing those Pakeha (& other non-Maori) who haven't to do all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering … as they go about establishing this Brave New Woke World, bereft of universal human rights, equal citizenship & other core principles of liberal democracy."
Or as one person I read recently put it, this wokeist cult looks more and more like rich white people, lacking a moral narrative and purpose for their wealth, assuaging their guilt by punching down on poor whites.
This woke idea that everything is oppression, starting with marxist oppression of all workers, the patriarchal oppression of all women, the white supremacist oppression of all people of colour – and now god help us the biological oppression of gender – has consistently taken what starts out as a good idea and degenerates it into corrosive, toxic soup, undermining social cohesion and trust.
Which you have to think, is well understood, by those who create and promote them, to be the purpose of these ideologies .
"…all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering" – awful. As for "punching down on poor whites" – words fail me.
Can't help wondering if overall long-term social cohesion and resilience might be strengthened by sharing the fruits of society just a little bit more equitably – is that idea too 'woke'; too PC?
The Root Causes of Health Inequity Health inequity, categories and examples of which were discussed in the previous chapter, arises from social, economic, environmental, and structural disparities that contribute to intergroup differences in health outcomes both within and between societies. The report identifies two main clusters of root causes of health inequity. The first is the intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic mechanisms that organize the distribution of power and resources differentially across lines of race, gender, class, sexual orientation, gender expression, and other dimensions of individual and group identity (see the following section on such structural inequities for examples). The second, and more fundamental root cause of health inequity, is the unequal allocation of power and resources—including goods, services, and societal attention—which manifest in unequal social, economic, and environmental conditions, also called the social determinants of health.
“System Conditions”, System Failure, Structural Racism and Anti-Racism in the United Kingdom: Evidence from Education and Beyond Racism in any society is fuelled by a number of factors, often acting independently of each other, or, at times, in concert with each other. On the one hand, anti-racism efforts rely on the alignment of four “system conditions” to stand a chance of successfully engaging and tackling racism. On the other hand, where these “system conditions” are not present, or where they are not in sync, this leads to “system failure”—a situation where racism is writ large in society and in the institutions therein, and where anti-racism efforts are severely hampered. Drawing on evidence from within the education sector and elsewhere in UK society, this paper examines how a lack of alignment between “system conditions” hampers anti-racism efforts, and simultaneously reinforces racism in society and in institutions—leading to gridlock or “system failure” around anti-racism.
Maybe just knowing one's place makes for a happier life, not to mention a good night's sleep which (we can all agree) has value beyond measure.
Why do I get the impression you're not too keen on "sharing the fruits of society just a little bit more equitably" with low income / poorer Pakeha ? (who comprise more than half of the bottom income quartile).
Ever stopped to wonder about health stats for poorer Pakeha & Asians ? You know, the kind of people who, unlike the Woke & their affluent older relatives, can't afford private health insurance (and quite possibly oppose it on principle) & are destined to be the sacrificial lambs forced by the Woke to the back of the surgery queue with CRT's Health "Equity" dogma. How do you think their stats compare to affluent Pakeha, to middle class Maori, to Poor Maori ? No you've never wondered about that, have you, sweetheart … no orgy of self-congratulatory virtue-signalling, no social media prestige enhancement amongst your little clique to be derived from that sort of non-Woke Social Justice.
As always, socio-economic privilege is vastly more consequential than any putative "white privilege" … but that's of no use to old frauds like you, is it. By aggressively promoting the existence of the latter to the exclusion of all else, affluent Woke phoneys get to have their cake & eat it … ostentatiously playing the role of morally good progressives while scapegoating poorer whites & quietly consolidating their own power & privilege.
Really quite Reactionary … in so many ways the antithesis of the genuine Left.
So spare me your fake morality, spare me your bullshit.
Why do I get the impression you're not too keen on "sharing the fruits of society just a little bit more equitably" with low income / poorer Pakeha ? (who comprise more than half of the bottom income quartile).
Honestly swordfish, don't know why you get that impression – imho the 'sharing' should be based on need ("From each accordingto his ability, to each according to their need" – Marx), but selfishness and greed ensure that disadvantaged groups are pitted against each other.
No you've never wondered about that, have you, sweetheart … no orgy of self-congratulatory virtue-signalling, no social media prestige enhancement amongst your little clique to be derived from that sort of non-Woke Social Justice.
You appear to be a bit of a mindreader – explains your "old frauds", "affluent Woke phoneys", "fake morality" and "bullshit" jibes. Fwiw I’m not naturally aggressive, and there’s no need for me or anyone else to promote “white privilege“, aggressively or otherwise. I don't have any health insurance, and yes, I was lucky enough to have a privileged start – both parents were teachers in the NZ public education system, and I did relatively well out of that system myself.
Wishing you and your parents all the best for the rest of your evening.
Funny you should ask… the 70 year old, physically disabled Better Half has visited the local hospital twice in the past month. Once through A&E and once for a specialist appointment. We expected to be asked about and/or offered Te Jab both times, but alas, no.
Despite the hospital being slap bang in the middle of 'jab any one who'll stand still long enough' central…not one medical professional seem to think it was an issue.
We didn't see a single sign promoting Te Jab either.
Looks like the world has been misled about the effectiveness of hydroxychloriquine in the early stages of Covid19 treatment. Perhaps those who instantly rejected its use because Trump may be feeling a bit embarrassed which is probably nothing compared to the feelings of the hundreds if thousands of Covid19 victims who could well have been helped and probably survived.https://c19hcq.com/
Still, these things need to be properly researched, investigated, and trialled before jumping to conclusions. What applies to the large general population may not apply to smaller sub-groups of patients, which complicates trials. Common sense is not a scientific-clinical argument and there’s usually a little more to it to justify the effort, expense, and ethics for undertaking (large) trials with sometimes very ill people.
With a link address like that, it's obviously a thoroughly unbiased collection of the latest peer-reviewed research on the topic and no conflicts of interest /sarc
That is not how you approach a pandemic though, there isn't time to do comprehensive research on treatments, you use whatever works. Off-label drug treatments are a key part of rolling out rapid medical counter measures in a pandemic. The safety research has already been done as many of these medications have been in use in the general population for decades. So all you really need to do is run trials.
"…Logistics convoys and retreating HAF were subsequently hunted down and remotely engaged by the unmanned combat aerial vehicles or the lethal autonomous weapons systems such as the STM Kargu-2 (see annex 30) and other loitering munitions. The lethal autonomous weapons systems were programmed to attack targets without requiring data connectivity between the operator and the munitions…"
Possibly the first recorded case of an autonomous Robot deliberately killing humans.
BTW a Kargu-2 is a quadcopter armed with a powerful anti-personnel fragmentation device (i.e. a very large hand grenade) that uses machine learning and algorythms to autonomously select and attack targets.
Who cares about Asimov's Laws of Robotics, or indeed, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) principles of robotics?
And who will use it ?There are only a few who live within 5km of the bridge, and of those who commute daily. I also note that the areas within 5km are some of the most expensive housing in Auckland, great for those who live in Manukau, Albany out west etc. who have to battle with very limited public transport. Nice to see our government have policies for the few – the same few who are benefitting from the housing situation pocketing over $432k from June 19 to June 20.
I also noticed that last weeks demonstration was less diverse than the PGA Championship held in Kiawah Is just out from Charleston North Carolina- Even Efeso Collins noted this.
So Existing bridge for vehicles, tunnel for trains and buses, small briddge for cycling and walking? Wow, NZTA really have protected the harbour bridge for cars only…
Defends of the bridge it could have less carlanes more space for dedicated pt lanes etc.
The very short term trick is to keep traffic flowing as smoothly as possible given shorter travel times equate to lower emissions. Tbf if govt were serious they would make public transport free, increase frequency and perhaps dedicate a bridge lane to the busway… that and really push hybrid or full electric cars. They are immediate things that will be of some benefit while infrastructure work is completed.
Its going to be a good 5-10 years before meaningful infrastructure is completed
At certain times but I'd suggest it would be insignificant… sure some will convert but between weather and distance to even get to the bridge on cycle would preclude most…
Would get plenty of use on weekends holidays etc but its not a solution for commute based congestion. That needs rail or bus more hubs more park n rides increased frequency etc
Bridge structure is at capacity and I suspect putting an additional lane on one side would present problems around balance, weight perhaps not not biggest issue more likely wind pressure etc… its amazing how much those outer lanes flex and move…
oh well, parole for "public toilet rapist Daniel Peter Moore's'
i wonder what the victim got? Some counselling sessions?
Moore's former partner, Nicola Allen, only had confirmation of the sex offender's release when contacted by the Otago Daily Times.
"I'm actually utterly appalled he's been let out," she said.
The board described Moore's sex attack as "opportunistic", but Allen said she had always believed it had been premeditated.
The man was sitting in his vehicle in the car park drinking RTDs and smoking before the rape took place……………..
On April 20, 2018, Moore followed his victim to the toilets and grabbed her around the throat as he forced her inside the cubicle.
He then subjected her to a half-hour ordeal during which he told her it was the first time he had raped anyone.
The woman later told police she was convinced Moore was going to kill her once he had finished.
In a statement read in court at sentencing, she said she had transformed from a cheerful and optimistic person to paranoid and fearful.
but fear not, while in prison he 'bettered himself',
While jailed, Moore had worked in the construction yard, prompting "very positive reports" about his attitude.
He had also undertaken tertiary study and had an ambition to become a civil engineer, Judge Ellis said.
Seriously? And the women? Just some 'collateral damage' being done by someone opportunitistic? I wonder if she got any taxpayer funded job skills and tertiary study?
maybe that is what needs to be done, these guys get fuck all in prison, no work, no study, nothing, and the funds saved will go towards the victim and her trauma counselling, her work rehabilitation and some tertiary studies.
Ian Powell on TDB has some interesting points on what goes in the health system here. And I don't have to go far in before I get goosebumps about what we will have if the Grand Leap Forward goes forward to a centralised hospital system with a Grand Computer System that Rules Over All.
Broadly speaking the prevailing leadership culture in New Zealand’s health system is managerialism which involves decision-making through a very narrow lens that is management rather than clinically and patient-centred driven. Within district health boards (DHBs) this can be alleviated by the closer proximity between senior managers and health professionals and largely overcome where there is sufficient oxygen to enable genuine engagement between them. The more distributed the engagement at all levels the more clinically and fiscally effective it is.
But with the Ministry of Health it is different. There is no equivalent proximity and the managerialism takes the form of a top-down, more distant, bureaucratic centralism leadership culture. When it comes into conflict over specific issues with a DHB that has progressed strongly in the direction of genuine engagement then it is a recipe for, at best, negative tension.
The dirty bureaucratic politics was a smear campaign falsely claiming that CDHB’s increasing operational financial deficit was due to financial mismanagement by its senior management team. To succeed it was necessary to destroy the consensus reached between CDHB and the Health Ministry in 2018.
From California to Ireland to Spain, when the housing bubble burst – to keep the prices up and reduce the supply the bulldozers were brought in to level new unsold houses. Sometimes even whole new sub-divisions to artificially limit supply.
We need urgent legislation to prevent that obscenity being repeated here.
There needs to be a law that no new home be allowed to be demolished while there is still homelessness in this country.
Half finished apartment blocks and new housing estates that were never occupied litter the landscape in Europe and North America just waiting to be bulldozed. No doubt this is how the housing bubble will burst here as well.
Before we reach that place. legislation needs to be enacted that no new dwelling will be allowed to be demolished and sent to a landfill on pain of confiscation by the state.
It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...
Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious: we live in a troubled ...
1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...
…it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisitionNOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes – The High Court ...
Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same?Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
Open access notablesIce acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment:In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
Mr Bombastic:Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder.In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére SosouMarket gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
Buzz from the Beehive Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ...
Morning in London Mother hugs beloved daughter outside the converted shoe factory in which she is living.Afternoon in London Travelling writer takes himself and his wrist down to A&E, just to be sure. Read more ...
Mike Grimshaw writes – The recent announcement of the University Advisory Group, chaired by Sir Peter Gluckman, makes very clear where the Government’s focus and priorities lie. The remit of the Advisory Group is that Group members will consider challenges and opportunities for improvement in the university sector including: ...
Eric Crampton writes – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand desperately wants to find reasons to have workstreams in climate change. It makes little sense. They’ve run another stress test on the banks looking to see if they could find a prudential regulation case. They couldn’t. They ...
Rob MacCullough writes – Pundits from the left and the right are arguing that National’s Fast Track Bill that is designed to speed up infrastructure decisions could end up becoming mired in a cesspool of corruption. Political commentator ...
Looking at the headlines this morning it’s hard to feel anything other than pessimistic about the future of humanity.Note that I’m not speaking about the future of mankind, but the survival of our humanity. The values that we believe in seem to be ebbing away, by the day.Perhaps every generation ...
Swabbing mixed breed baby chicks to test for avian influenzaUh oh. Bird flu – often deadly to humans – is not only being transmitted from infected birds to dairy cows, but is now travelling between dairy cows. As of last Friday, Bloomberg News reports, there were 32 American dairy herds ...
On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough. Greenpeace says ...
I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
Te Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...
Our two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...
Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...
Tonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...
It appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...
The Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...
The Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...
Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...
The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...
The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...
Cuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
Te Pāti Māori is disgusted at the confirmation that hundreds are set to lose their jobs at Oranga Tamariki, and the disestablishment of the Treaty Response Unit. “This act of absolute carelessness and out of touch decision making is committing tamariki to state abuse.” Said Te Pāti Māori Oranga Tamariki ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi, and Mema Paremata mō Tāmaki-Makaurau, Takutai Tarsh Kemp, will travel to the Gold Coast to strengthen ties with Māori in Australia next week (15-21 April). The visit, in the lead-up to the 9th Australian National Kapa haka Festival, will be an opportunity for both ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
I was initially resistant to the idea often suggested to me that the Government should deliver an arts strategy. The whole point of the arts and creativity is that people should do whatever the hell they want, unbound by the dictates of politicians in Wellington. Peter Jackson, Kiri Te Kanawa, Eleanor ...
The ministers responsible for green-lighting major projects need to be open about potential conflicts of interest, says Transparency International. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anastasia Powell, Professor, Family and Sexual Violence, RMIT University It has been a particularly distressing start to the year. There is little that can ease the current grief of individuals, families and communities who have needlessly lost a loved one to men’s ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne Lichen, the first described example of symbiosis.AdeJ Artventure/Shutterstock Once known only to those studying biology, the word symbiosis is now widely used. Symbiosis is the intimate ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kim Hemsley, Head, Childhood Dementia Research Group, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University Olena Ivanova/Shutterstock “Childhood” and “dementia” are two words we wish we didn’t have to use together. But sadly, around 1,400 ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Whiteford, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University The government’s Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee has just published its second report. It was set up by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth in 2022 to provide: ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The Queensland state election will be held in October. A YouGov poll for The Courier Mail, conducted April 9–17 from a sample ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amin Naeni, PhD candidate at Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University There’s been much talk in recent months about what a possible second Donald Trump presidency in the United States could mean for Europe, Russia’s war in Ukraine, the ...
A brief round-up of submissions on the controversial proposed law. This is an excerpt from our weekly environmental newsletter Future Proof. Sign up here. Last week, submissions on the controversial Fast-track Approvals Bill closed just hours after the government released a list of stakeholder organisations who were sent letters advising how they could ...
A poem from Robin Peace’s new collection Detritus of Empire: feather / grass / rock. Cereal giving I see a woman’s hands, see her curious hands break a stalk as she walks through the tall prairie, the savannah, the steppe, wherever it was. See her idly bite the grass that ...
The only published and available best-selling indie book chart in New Zealand is the top 10 sales list recorded every week at Unity Books’ stores in High St, Auckland, and Willis St, Wellington.AUCKLAND1 Hemingway’s Goblet by Dermot Ross (Mary Egan Publishing, $38)A handsomely produced (debossed cover, lovely ...
The Commissioner's decision validates the longstanding efforts of the local community and ensures that Awataha Marae will be managed to serve the needs of the local community, particularly for hosting tangihanga. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tristan Salles, Associate professor, University of Sydney Examples of Australian landscapes.Unsplash Seventy thousand years ago, the sea level was much lower than today. Australia, along with New Guinea and Tasmania, formed a connected landmass known as Sahul. Around this time – ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Felicity Castagna, Lecturer, Creative Writing, Western Sydney University Day Day Market, ParramattaPhoto: Garry Trinh I live on the edge of Parramatta, Australia’s fastest-growing city, on the kind of old-fashioned suburban street that has 1950s fibros constructed in the post-war housing boom, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael Ryan, Teaching Fellow in Economics, University of Waikato GettyImagesfatido/Getty Images There is an ongoing global debate over whether the high inflation seen in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic can be lowered without a recession. New Zealand is not ...
The ‘Wicked Game’ heartthrob is in his late 60s now. That didn’t stop him putting on a lively, goofy and very sparkly show. Apart from ‘Wicked Game’, which graces a sultry playlist of mine simply called 💋, my last sustained Chris Isaak listening session took place when I was about ...
Analysis - Two ministers were stripped of portfolios in a warning to Cabinet, drama broke out at the Waitangi Tribunal, and the gang patch ban bill ran into opposition. ...
Tara Ward makes an impassioned plea for some vital pop culture merch. In April 1999, I became obsessed with a new reality television show called Popstars. Every Tuesday night, five strangers transformed into music royalty before my very eyes as Joe, Keri, Carly, Erika and Megan were chosen to form ...
PNG Post-Courier In the early hours of ANZAC Day, aerial photographs captured an impressive gathering of Australians and Papua New Guineans at Isurava in the Northern (Oro) Province. The solemn dawn service yesterday was held at a site steeped in history, where some of the fiercest battles of World War ...
The PSA is shocked that Oranga Tamariki has used the cost cutting drive to downgrade its commitment to Te Ao Māori and remove many specialist Māori roles. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Kemish, Adjunct Professor, School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry, The University of Queensland There can be no more powerful symbol of the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea than the prime ministers of these neighbouring countries walking together on the ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sharon Robinson, Distinguished Professor and Deputy Director of ARC Securing Antarctica’s Environmental Future (SAEF), University of Wollongong, University of Wollongong Andrew Netherwood Over the last 25 years, the ozone hole which forming over Antarctica each spring has started to shrink. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Viktoria Kahui, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Economics, University of Otago Getty Images/Amy Toensing Biodiversity is declining at rates unprecedented in human history. This suggests the ways we currently use to manage our natural environment are failing. One emerging concept focuses on ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Colin Bednall, Associate Professor in Management, Swinburne University of Technology marvent/Shutterstock Finding the best person to fill a position can be tough, from drafting a job ad to producing a shortlist of top interview candidates. Employers typically consider information from ...
Wondering where to host your next BYO? Whether its a small gathering or a massive party, we’ve got some recommendations. I was first introduced to the concept of BYOs at Dunedin’s India Gardens, a legendary but sadly defunct establishment, which purveyed enormous quantities of mango chicken to Aotearoa’s drunkest future ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julien Cooper, Honorary Lecturer, Department of History and Archaeology, Macquarie University Julien Cooper The hyper-arid desert of Eastern Sudan, the Atbai Desert, seems like an unlikely place to find evidence of ancient cattle herders. But in this dry environment, my new ...
The sector says it’s hopeful her replacement Paul Goldsmith will be able to throw it a lifeline, after six months with a minister deemed missing in action, writes Catherine McGregor in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign ...
The government can't just rely on axing public sector jobs and has to do more to cut spending, says the chief economist at a free market think tank. ...
Rock The Vote NZ, known for its advocacy for minor party unity and its role within the Freedoms NZ Coalition during the 2023 General Election, celebrates this merger as a strategic enhancement of its operational strength and outreach. ...
Nearly everyone has experienced the frustration of something you use breaking and being difficult or expensive to fix. Proposed legislation could change that. It’s been raining on and off all Sunday afternoon but people are lining up outside a building in a corner of Gribblehirst Park in Sandringham, Auckland. In ...
What does a forever relationship look like when you don’t believe in marriage? And how do you celebrate it? This essay is part of our Sunday Essay series, made possible thanks to the support of Creative New Zealand.I’m going to do it, right now. I’m going to say ...
The Prime Minister has committed to resuming direct flights to Thailand. But it’s not a promise he will be able to deliver on anytime soon. The post Prime Minister jumps the gun in Thailand appeared first on Newsroom. ...
It’s not that long ago Eliza McCartney was seriously wondering if the Paris Olympics would be her pole vaulting swansong. After years of being hounded by injury after injury, the Rio Olympics bronze medallist was still confident she would compete at her second Olympics in Paris in July, unless something ...
FICTION 1 Take Two by Danielle Hawkins (Allen & Unwin, $36.99) There’s commercial fiction, like this book, and then there’s quality fiction, quality writers, quality literature; the forthcoming Auckland Writers Festival is full of quality, and ReadingRoom has two tickets to give away to the following events: Paul Lynch (Dublin ...
Loading…(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){var ql=document.querySelectorAll('A[quiz],DIV[quiz],A[data-quiz],DIV[data-quiz]'); if(ql){if(ql.length){for(var k=0;k<ql.length;k++){ql[k].id='quiz-embed-'+k;ql[k].href="javascript:var i=document.getElementById('quiz-embed-"+k+"');try{qz.startQuiz(i)}catch(e){i.start=1;i.style.cursor='wait';i.style.opacity='0.5'};void(0);"}}};i['QP']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)})(window,document,'script','https://take.quiz-maker.com/3012/CDN/quiz-embed-v1.js','qp'); Got a good quiz question?Send Newsroom your questions. The post Newsroom daily quiz, Friday 26 April appeared first on Newsroom. ...
You can’t have missed the Gallipoli story as the movies, documentaries, essays and books capture what it was like for New Zealand troops in their eight-month campaign on the Peninsula. But this Anzac Day the Auckland War Memorial Museum has published a book that sheds light on a little-known aspect of the ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In the free-for-all between the Australian government and Big Tech boss Elon Musk this week, the government had to be on a winner. Most people would have little sympathy with Musk’s vociferous opposition to ...
Asia Pacific Report Chief Mandla Mandela, a member of the National Assembly of South Africa and Nelson Mandela’s grandson, has joined the Freedom Flotilla in istanbul as the ships prepare to sail for Gaza, reports Kia Ora Gaza. Mandela is also the ambassador for the Global Campaign to Return to ...
Pacific Media Watch Journalists who report on environmental issues are encountering growing difficulties in many parts of the world, reports Reporters Without Borders. According to the tally kept by RSF, 200 journalists have been subjected to threats and physical violence, including murder, in the past 10 years because they were ...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards, Democracy Project (https://democracyproject.nz)Political scientist, Dr Bryce Edwards. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra BagzhanSadvakassov/Upsplash, CC BY-SA Australia’s inflation rate has fallen for the fifth successive quarter, and it’s now less than half of what it was back in late 2022. ...
ACT's Rural Communities and Veterans spokesman Mark Cameron responds to cancellations and protests of ANZAC Day commemorations in Wellington. He says, "These pitiful attempts to detract from ANZAC Day are not at all indicative of the feelings of mainstream ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meighen McCrae, Associate Professor of Strategic & Defence Studies, Australian National University American and Australian stretcher bearers working together near the front line during the Battle of Hamel in 1918.Australian War Memorial While the AUKUS alliance is new, the Australian-American partnership ...
Pōneke based peace activists staged a silent protest at the ANZAC day service to highlight New Zealand’s complicity in war and genocide, and urge the government to take concrete steps to stop the genocide in Palestine. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Magdalena M.E. Bunbury, Postdoctoral Researcher, James Cook University Burial with a horse at the Rákóczifalva site, Hungary (8th century AD).Sándor Hegedűs, Hungarian National Museum, CC BY How do we understand past societies? For centuries, our main sources of information have been ...
Amanda Thompson doesn’t really do Anzac Day. But what she does do is remember the people she knew who had a lifetime to remember stuff they didn’t really want to, because of a war they didn’t ask for. And she does make Anzac biscuits.First published in 2021.All my ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Willis, Postdoctoral Researcher, CSIRO Xavier Boulenger/Shutterstock In the two decades to 2019, global plastic production doubled. By 2040, plastic manufacturing and processing could consume as much as 20% of global oil production and use up 15% of the annual carbon ...
With our collective remembrance, and steadfast belief in our common humanity, we strengthen our hope and resolve to do what we can to foster dialogue and understanding, and to heal divisions in our pursuit of peace. ...
Principal reasons for the opposition is the loss of the public’s democratic right to have “a fair say” and the vital need for a government free from corruption, said Casey Cravens of Dunedin, president of the New Zealand Federation of Freshwater ...
Never mind the scoreboard – in the 2000 Bledisloe Cup decider, the real trans-Tasman battle was won before kickoff.First published in 2016. The dawn of the new millennium was a dark time for the All Blacks. Their final game pre-Y2K was a 22-18 loss to South Africa in the ...
I’m on the wrong side of 40, I never pursued creative work and now my job is killing my soul. Help! Want Hera’s help? Email your problem to helpme@thespinoff.co.nzDear Hera,May I start with the least original conversation opener you’re likely to hear around the motu at the moment, particularly in Wellington: ...
“Never again - No AUKUS” was the message of the wreath laid at this morning’s national ANZAC Day commemorative service at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park this morning by the Stop AUKUS group. ...
Until this month, Auckland swimmer Hazel Ouwehand had never met a qualifying time in an Olympic event for a New Zealand team, even as a junior. Now she’s very likely off to the Paris Olympics after swimming well under the qualifying standard in the 100m butterfly twice – both in ...
While Anzac Day has experienced a resurgence in recent years, our other day of remembrance has slowly faded from view.The Sunday Essay is made possible thanks to the support of Creative New Zealand. Original illustrations by Hope McConnell.First published in 2022.The high school’s head girl and ...
Australian and New Zealand volunteers fought together in the Waikato War, yet still its place in the Anzac tradition is unacknowledged by our defence forces or Returned Services Association.First published in 2018.When I was a boy cub I attended Anzac Day services in the South Auckland suburb of ...
Peru votes for its fifth president in five years.
Marxist Castillo v hard right Fujimori.
Neck and neck.
Not a recipe for stable government.
Covid would not have helped with stability.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/world/443817/peru-tops-covid-19-deaths-per-capita-stats-after-revision
…Aaahh…good ol' Ad, you are like The Standards ghost of Thatcher for Free market Liberlisim…No turning back!!
Pedro Castillo Can Help End Neoliberalism in Peru
https://www.jacobinmag.com/2021/06/pedro-castillo-peru-libre-keiko-fujimori-runoff-election-june-6-neoliberalism
Neither Peruvian candidate result will last a year.
Bolivian hard left looks now identical to the right locking up opponents and weaponising the judiciary.
Both states heading for failure.
Of course you fail to mention that any Left Wing project that gets fairly elected in Latin America will be instantly made to suffer terribly through all kinds of nefarious mean and ways by the neo liberal imperilaists and their cronies, so neither you nor I can ever know how any Left Wing project would either sink or swim on their own merits or lack of such…but the same cannot be said of failures of the extreme and brutal Right wing Governments from those same regions, whom your liberal governments supports….
even Wikipedia has a serious list…
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_involvement_in_regime_change_in_Latin_America
"Participation of the United States in regime change in Latin America involved US-backed coups d'état aimed at replacing left-wing leaders with right-wing leaders, military juntas, or other authoritarian regimes"
Contents1.1Argentina
"The "soft line" was, in Nixon’s words, to "make the economy scream." The "hard line" was simply to aim for a military coup."
https://chomsky.info/secrets04/
Seriously? The Northern Pathway for a cyclists' harbour crossing? It's an eyesore totally destroying what is an iconic Auckland view of the existing Harbour Bridge.
This is complete dumbfuckery of the highest order.
It's clear a new bridge is needed, but lets sort and build a proper replacement for the existing bridge which is multi use and fit for purpose.
A bridge for cyclists and walkers could have benefits. Reduce traffic on the already struggling Auckland Harbour Bridge. Reduce carbon emissions. Joggers and walkers would keep fit. A tourist attraction with a few cafes along the way. The Green Party would be a more likely coalition party as the government would be seen as delivering on reducing emissions. Employ people in the building. The cost means the project could be started sooner than later.
Some sort of two way vehicle lane would need to be constructed in the project as a back up for essential vehicles were a major closure of the existing Auckland Harbour Bridge to occur.
I have no argument with that. Totally agree. My point is, however, that this design in this place totally destroys what has become an iconic Auckland landmark. An absolute cockup.
Aesthetically it can go horribly wrong. Just like the initial lane capacity of the bridge.
edit
Sounds sensible to the core Treetop. I recommend that it go up for government tick and then be costed. Where would it start and finish Treetop? If close enough to the present but further enough to diminish traffic from just near the present bridge, it could use present motorway for approach.
Could the approach be up Curran Street, turn into Sarsfield Streeet and then from a point there across to Chelsea by the Sugar Refining and through the Chelsea Heritage Park which sounds nice.
It could have a pillar near with ladder-path down to Watchmans Island which could have some hardy bushes planted there and be a stopping off spot for picnics etc which would probably please the locals as it has deteriorated over the years.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/aucklander/news/who-watches-the-watchman/J3GJ4L5ROPNKCJ6N72E7WPQWZ4/
Then over to Chelsea and join up with Colonial Road. Or alternatively it might go to Hinemoa Park and up to Birkenhead.
Or could it go off Tamaki Drive at the end of Mechanics Bay (not owned by Ports of Auckland) and go across to Bayswater and up Bayswater Avenue or up Norwood Road, perhaps with an exit that goes off at Stanley Point to the naval base at Devonport, which would be good quick access for them.
Let’s stop worrying about the aesthetics. Let us have a serviceable bridge that doesn’t cost too much, and we will love it. And perhaps we can paint it a different colour every five years or so, while we are giving it a regular maintenance check. Think safety, longevity and if you don’t like the aesthetics make little models of what you would like, or paintings, and make a feature of that to sell to people. The difference of opinion can be taken to extreme and people could design one made of live willow branches or something. But keep practical – it is people who wanted Mediterranean aesthetics who got the leaky buildings thing going. Let’s be wary of looks, and go to the foundations and materials and wind resistance etc etc.
Gee you are asking the wrong person about the position of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. I have only had one return trip on it to Brown's Bay in 1978.
That was an example of how citizens have to put their minds to visioning practical things they want. We can't just set up wishlists and hope government will do the right thing. We must take part in government, go forward with government not just be supplicants being handed things by the 'kindly and wise' PTB.
What is it we want. where, and who and what will it serve? How much, is there an easier cheaper way? Who will be disadvantaged and how much? How can that be mitigated? We can get through the decision barrier that those with power are in. Make a mistake and they can be out of a job, or no further contracts; decision might be to put if off for further study and information, and keep getting the largesse of the moment.
Yeah, I look at this picture and just think, instead of building a biking bridge alongside, just build a whole new, spectacular bridge alongside with biking lanes on it. Then demolish the crappy old one.
this looks like a very expensive band aid.
Never understood why the clearance is so high. The upper Waitemata has a few yachts and the Chelsea sugar works up there and that's it.
Spirit of adventure ?visiting replica sailing tall ships super yachts etc and if you,re the daring type you can fly youre plane through there !!
We need to be able to sail our AC75 under it
To allow access to the deep water wharf at Birkenhead and the Chelsea sugar refinery.
Yes the Chelsea refinery…couple of ships a month maybe?
I'm no bridge expert but my guess is that flatter bridges are cheaper to build, more stable, and are probably much better on fuel consumption for users.
Muttonbird Should there be an opening end, where water is deep enough for large vessels?
yes.
My thoughts exactly
Oh King Muttonbird waving his hand expressively – I don't like that bridge take it away – scrap it. Build me another better one. Pfffttt.
Weeelll. I'd be interested to know what the tunnel costs are. It seems a given we are going to build one.
Am assuming the idea there is existing bridge takes northbound traffic and tunnel taels southbound + rail.
If that were the case there'd be room for bike/pedestrian on the existing bridge so no need for the stand alone???
Also the existing bridge isn't going to last forever, unlike a lot of bridges in the world.
My idea was to abandon the tunnel and just build a bridge fit for road/rail/cycle/ pedestrian which will last 200 years.
Oh weelll sounds okay. I am just exercised at the moment about all the things that those in power are going to build – it seems cost is no worry, and of course they will be interesting things, not like tiny houses or affordable homes for people to rent/buy. Sorry to bite as it is probably a secret wish of mine and for many of us that we could for once make something happen that needs to. Has anyone thought of a stadium that converts to bed sitting rooms after 10 pm for instance. Hah hah.
Good point about the real urgency being ignored on affordable housing and other even less glamourous stuff than that, water infrastructure, etc, seemingly in favour of big, visible projects like this.
However, if we are determined as a nation to dramatically increase or population then transport infrastructure planning is also vital. It is something we have always done very, very poorly.
I don't even mind about cost, I just want it done once and done right. Maybe some of these hotshot Covid refugees who have returned home in their tens of thousands can set us straight!
What about cyclists crossing by ferry as part of the transport structure so you are not left to the profitable constraints of ferry owners as the Waiheke Islanders have suffered? I fondly remember the ferries from Bayswater chugging across the water. They did so in a regular pattern and could be relied on for time for those working on the other side – the City or North Shore.
There could even be uber-boaters but they would have to be watched for seaworthiness. Or they could be boat owners who ran themselves to work and took regular passengers with them on a season ticket arrangement. They would be given the sort of tax allowances that the rentier landlords and house owners get now.
And what do other people in cities by the sea do? We seem to look at dysfunctional USA for models of how to mistreat people. Can we look away to other countries, probably European or perhaps Singapore and Hong Kong, for the clued-up cities on how they run things effectively at reasonable cost?
I'm not sure why a couple of light composite tubes can't be slung underneath for cycle traffic – one for each direction. Must be cheaper than new crossings, and not disruptive to existing use.
Funny how confirmation bias works. I thought for you suggest compost-able tubes for cyclists. Probably cheaper and more user friendly than other solutions.
But could you get your yacht under the tubes Margaritte 1.43pm?
We need to be able to sail our AC75 under it. What is it by the way?
Separating the structures means NZTA can replace main bridge with tunnel, providing for all modes.
Makes good sense.
And of course it's a powerful anti combustion engine signal just days from Climate Commission plan.
Good operationally and excellent politically.
Maybe the govt can put Phil Twyford in charge..
And have that skinny little thing the only surface crossing?
All other commuters banished to the underground like Wells' Morlocks?
Nope. Build a huge state of the art 10 (or 8) lane bridge reflecting 21st Century New Zealand, with rail and cycle capacity.
Ad I think you want to use semaphore signals to wake people up to what is coming and needed for the future. But you are apparently prepared to do that by demolishing systems and structures while they are still needed. Bad as Roger Douglas you are. That comment yesterday about Marsden Point close-down did not convince me of the practicality and far-seeing nature of whatever committee you are on.
Don't worry about it, it is only an announcement
Like most motorways the Auckland Harbour Bridge doesn't lend itself to being retrofitted for bikes and pedestrian traffic, The traditional answer has been to construct separate cycleways to the side. And this is being done on the Southern and Western motorways. But the Harbour Bridge presents a unique problem.
There was a plan to build a sky-path for cyclists and pedestrians under or beside the main carriageway. But it proved to be a hugely complicated and expensive engineering project.
The engineering nightmare that was the sky-path has been ditched.
Taking a lane for a bikeway is not practical.
The new plan is for a new and separate bike and pedestrian bridge to be built beside the existing bridge.
When he was Prime Minister John Key announced the construction of $7 billion road tunnel under the harbour.
This plan did not survive the change in government
With a price tag of $250 million and a delivery date of 5 years, I doubt whether this latest plan for a pedestrian and cycle bridge would survive a change of government either.
A fare free busway with an option for bicycle stowage is a far cheaper solution and can be implemented immediately. All of the infrastructure is already there
Why don't we do this?.
Today's Herald story briefly mentions this;
"He also revealed that Waka Kotahi has considered getting bikes across the bridge using gondolas and a dedicated ferry or bus service. However, all those options were rejected."
He is Michael Wood, Minister of Transport.
It was your big suggestion here on Sunday, I suggest you make an OIA request.
On Sunday you also said "There will not be a three month bike lane trial. There will not even be a one week bike lane trial."
And yet that Herald story also quotes the Minister as saying
"With the new bridge five years away, Wood also said he had asked Waka Kotahi to present him with options for a cycling and walking lane on the current bridge now. This would involve a trial conversion of an existing vehicle lane or lanes."
and
"Waka Kotahi will continue to work on how to provide safe temporary trials of using lanes on the existing harbour bridge for cyclists and pedestrians," Wood said.
I personally have a lot of time for Michael Wood.
If Michael Wood can get 20 thousand commuters to give up one lane of the motorway for a bikeway he has my support.
Anything but this eyesore.
A camel is a horse designed by a committee
This latest proposal has succeeded in uniting cyclists and truckers, (and possibly everyone in between) in opposing the proposed bike pedestrian bridge.
Because when you try to please everybody, you end up pleasing nobody.
At least now we know what we all don't like, and we all don't like this.
Of course there is, (as there always is), ideologues that can be counted on to endorse something like this. The good thing is that at least the spokesperson for this minority are honest in admitting that the proposed bike pedestrian bridge is nothing to do with relieving or even addressing Auckland's traffic woes.
If anyone deserves a new bridge in their town, it is the people of Ashburton.
'Why should Auckland get everything?': Residents of flood-ravaged Ashburton frustrated by city's second bridge (msn.com)
National Party candidate makes world news headlines for his revenge porn scandal .
Collins looks like a goner.She looked 10 years older last night on TV desperately avoiding any responsibility when questioned last night
Collins big talking at the recent queenstown conference where Bazant was one of the headline acts a rising star the new young face of the National Party .Has turned into a complete disaster.
[putting you on the ban list. Really happy to let you out when you reply to this mod note. I need to have a conversation with you, so you will need to check replies to your comments before I will end the ban. I will keep an eye out for your comments in the Trash.
https://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-03-06-2021/#comment-1796295
Former or ex-National Party candidate, to be more precise.
Collins’s responsibility lies with the future of the Party, not so much the past, which cannot be undone. She has the top-secret review reports; she knows what needs to be done. A real Leader has what it takes to do what needs to be done. Crickets.
Nicola Willis, please step forward and up, and save the Party from more self-inflicted embarrassment and pain.
These scandals are useful as an opportunity for an outsider to snatch a glimpse into the fetid mind of the National party politician…..confirming what we already know is their primary thought pattern, just nasty shit.
Did Collins say in the last month or two that there were no more scandals and that the party was united?
Keeping a straight face while holding a dud poker hand once again.
Mod note above.
Treetop and Tricledrown – different.
Thanks Ghost and Grey for your messages about the Vaccine Stab number yesterday. I got a call in but no reply as yet. In no hurry anyway would rather it went to someone younger who may be more vulnerable.
Depending upon what group you are in you might not want to get too excited about getting any reply at all before summer arrives.
If you are in the most at risk group, the immediate frontline workers, it appears that only about 60% of them have had even a first dose. In the next category, the household members of the most at risk people, less than 50% have had a first dose.
Group 2, which is the frontline health workers, people living or working in long-term residential care, older Maori and Pacific people and those over 65 living in Counties Manakau has only had about 40% who have received a first dose.
For those of us who are over 65 but aren't Maori or Pacific people only about 4% have had a first dose. These were the ones who were supposedly going to be able to get vaccinated starting at the beginning of last month remember. That date of course then slipped back and appears to be slipping further.
The Government Health Ministers seem to be quite happy. ""Our plan to vaccinate New Zealanders is on track," Dr Ayesha Verrall". Well I suppose she would say that. She has been vaccinated.
Ashley Bloomfield is also quite happy about the situation it would seem.
"Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said on Thursday he's happy with the progress.
"I think what we're seeing is ongoing increased uptake amongst our priority groups."
Meanwhile, while the vast majority of us haven't been vaccinated, our Government is going to allow people in from Melbourne next week without any form of quarantine. The people involved chose to go there. Either stay there or go into quarantine when you get back should be their options. When the elderly, like me, have had a chance to get vaccinated they can open up the borders. Until then to hell with it.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2021/06/coronavirus-60-percent-of-group-labelled-high-risk-still-yet-to-get-first-covid-19-vaccine-dose.html
In the meantime you probably shouldn't get too excited about getting anything. My local DHB said early this week that they had no idea when vaccination might be available. My Medical Centre also say they haven't been told anything and they have no idea what is going on.
my BiL and his wife – both in their forties and in no group of anything – had their vaccination last week in Whangarai as walk ins.
His mother and father, both in their seventies, she is Pakeha and he is Maori, have yet to get a notification of being even on some list, they are in Whakatane.
Here in Rotorua, who knows.
i agree that the border should be closed again until a few more people here have had their jab.
As for those that don't want the jab, who cares, leave them be, and vaccinated those that want to be vaccinated.
Agree on all points.
No sign of vaccination for my 90 year old Parents (one with hypertension & diabetes).
In most Anglosphere Countries, the elderly were placed in the second group to be vaccinated rather than thrown in with over 65s in general in Group 3 … with the really high-risk over 80s (those with comorbidities) right at the front of the Group 2 queue … we apparently do things differently here …
Meanwhile, widespread complacency around the threat posed by the new dangerous Covid variants continues unabated.
it seems that there really is no co-ordination or anything really. Again, have all old people in Auckland be vaccinated?
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-coronavirus-auckland-vaccination-centre-metres-away-from-miq-facility/KJFR5UM5YGLDN65B4WA3P2P6PI/
#8 wire….
His comment is a rubbish reckon from a guy exercising his white privilege to have a whine and get it reported in the Herald, the home of the relentless middle class whinge about everything.
So what if it is next to an MIQ facility? Journalists in their stampede to get the next alarmist reckon from a know nothing have forgotten to ask the most basic of questions – like has anyone, anywhere in NZ in the past year, ever caught covid by walking past a MIQ hotel? The answer of course is NO.
It is interesting they’ve removed from earlier stories his complaint that no one was being scanned, something in my experience of getting vaccinated (twice now) is simply an outright untruth.
You could criticise that it is hard to get to if you are disabled and poorly signposted/a bit hard to find from the advertised Elliot street entrance, but no some wally get to have a free bitch about… nothing really.
did actually not care much about his whinge but his age.
the conversation up top is in regards to age groups and vaccination groups and the reigning confusion about it.
Sanctuary I don't know how your comment sits in with the recent media release about the aerosol effect of people just passing by with the more infection strain.
And has everyone noted how there isn't a new super infectious strain in Victoria. It seems to have been a fib by the pollie in charge feeling the heat of failure. It is such a hot country, Australia.
swordfish Sorry to hear about your parents waiting. I hope they have better neighbours now.
As for the way that Covid 19 treatment has slid back it probably means that it is back with the backsliders down in the bowels of the MoH. When the leaders were appearing before cameras they would have been on their toes. Now the MoH has taken to printing an enormous number of leaflets and full page adverts in the papers and probably on tv?
Trouble is that people don't know what to think, don't read the papers, or have time – it is a very passive approach that is so efficient for man/womanpower but not for the actual outcome of message received by those who need it the most. What do generic managers do when there is a human mass outbreak of sickness? Sit at their computers and work out the odds for people dying for each possible method used, and then work out the 'mean' figure showing the least financial cost?
Well I can't remember which media I read that there was not a new strain in Victoria but it was wrong. So should I start wearing my mask all the time when mixing? Seriously I should I suppose. And the epidemiologist Baker says that all the border workers and others involved haven't been vaccinated – still thousands to go. And what about GPs, we heard that they have been neglected. Really, if you take your eye off government they wander off into the woods and get lost!
Cheers, Grey.
No, the nightmare continues unfortunately. We thought it was all over right at the start of November last year when their violent intensely anti-social neighbour moved out, swapping houses with what we believe was his grandmother … massive relief for everyone (including other neighbours) … he was now living more than an hour away & the older lady was extremely quiet (so my Parents feeling safe, no enforced chronic sleep deprivation, no intense stress … & peace of mind for the first time in 3 years) … but only lasted 6 weeks … gave everyone a real shock when he suddenly turned up in the early hours of Boxing Day nonchalantly inflicting his usual anti-social behaviour / noise / aggression as if nothing had changed.
My 90 year old Mother has had to be hospitalised twice since Oct 2020 for very high blood pressure & low oxygen saturation levels (bordering on mini-stoke territory) from extreme stress & sleep deprivation (both his violent explosions/noise & his kids (increasingly dropped there) running wild at all hours … really raucous relentless in-your-face noise levels right through to late at night, Parents can't escape it even in rooms away from dividing-wall with doors closed) …
… She almost died in Wellington Hospital the day after the 2020 Election … but on Election Day was more concerned about casting her vote for the Labour Party she'd spent her life both supporting & being active within rather than worrying about her own health.
This'd be the Labour Party with its tacit No Eviction policy & its affluent, Woke New Middle Class activist base romanticising people like the intensely anti-social Underclass Neighbour while systematically demonizing & scapegoating elderly poorer Pakeha, including lifelong Labour voters. Unfortunately, being white they're members of the ID Politics 'out-groups' currently being quietly but rapidly transformed (largely by Pakeha from financially-privileged backgrounds) into 2nd class citizens.
Or, to put it another way, those Pakeha who have disproportionately inherited the wealth from Colonisation forcing those Pakeha (& other non-Maori) who haven't to do all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering … as they go about establishing this Brave New Woke World, bereft of universal human rights, equal citizenship & other core principles of liberal democracy.
Ironic given my Parents history of marching against Springbok Tours (1960 / 76 / 81) & my Mother being one of the first Pakeha to learn Te Reo in a formal educational setting (as a teenager at a Wellington Educational Institute's night classes in 1948). At the age of 90 she now gets to enjoy relentless stress from an extremely violent Maori man (who never has to suffer any consequences = because Colonisation) & his clearly deeply dysfunctional family while the ex-boarding school Woke Cadre get to ostentatiously posture & pose as heroic "anti-racists" (according to deeply warped Critical Race Theory dogma) while continuing to enjoy all the inherited fruits of Colonisation (while also bravely ensuring they're living at least 20 miles away from the mayhem they've helped to create through crude social housing policies in previously peaceful, community-minded & for the most part Labour-voting neighbourhoods).
Glad I got that off my chest … longtime coming … thanks for providing me with the opportunity, Grey
I am bitter about this too swordfish. See it all the time, where people are trying to transform the world that has been mostly good but they want to trash it and start again on a different set of tracks. We are to be derailed and left in a siding to stew in our own juice.
They don't try to clean the bad up, keep the good and change habits to improve society, they just want to trash the lot and start again FGS. It took centuries and many people worked all their lives to get civilisation to the present era, at a level that decent people could be happy about.
Now this type of activist person likely meditate when they get distressed and remove themselves from the everyday, and come back with fantastical ideas that they have absorbed in overwhelming belief. Their drive is similar to that of economists to change humans' behaviour to fit their models. I don't think they really like people though they profess to be 'caring and concerned'; again like economists they are in love with their models and designs, people's and the planet's actual needs are often at opposite positions.
I have a few things to say about my feelings on https://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-05-06-2021/#comment-1796469
"Or, to put it another way, those Pakeha who have disproportionately inherited the wealth from Colonisation forcing those Pakeha (& other non-Maori) who haven't to do all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering … as they go about establishing this Brave New Woke World, bereft of universal human rights, equal citizenship & other core principles of liberal democracy."
Or as one person I read recently put it, this wokeist cult looks more and more like rich white people, lacking a moral narrative and purpose for their wealth, assuaging their guilt by punching down on poor whites.
This woke idea that everything is oppression, starting with marxist oppression of all workers, the patriarchal oppression of all women, the white supremacist oppression of all people of colour – and now god help us the biological oppression of gender – has consistently taken what starts out as a good idea and degenerates it into corrosive, toxic soup, undermining social cohesion and trust.
Which you have to think, is well understood, by those who create and promote them, to be the purpose of these ideologies .
"…all the Penance, all the sacrificing, all the suffering" – awful. As for "punching down on poor whites" – words fail me.
Can't help wondering if overall long-term social cohesion and resilience might be strengthened by sharing the fruits of society just a little bit more equitably – is that idea too 'woke'; too PC?
Maybe just knowing one's place makes for a happier life, not to mention a good night's sleep which (we can all agree) has value beyond measure.
Why do I get the impression you're not too keen on "sharing the fruits of society just a little bit more equitably" with low income / poorer Pakeha ? (who comprise more than half of the bottom income quartile).
Ever stopped to wonder about health stats for poorer Pakeha & Asians ? You know, the kind of people who, unlike the Woke & their affluent older relatives, can't afford private health insurance (and quite possibly oppose it on principle) & are destined to be the sacrificial lambs forced by the Woke to the back of the surgery queue with CRT's Health "Equity" dogma. How do you think their stats compare to affluent Pakeha, to middle class Maori, to Poor Maori ? No you've never wondered about that, have you, sweetheart … no orgy of self-congratulatory virtue-signalling, no social media prestige enhancement amongst your little clique to be derived from that sort of non-Woke Social Justice.
As always, socio-economic privilege is vastly more consequential than any putative "white privilege" … but that's of no use to old frauds like you, is it. By aggressively promoting the existence of the latter to the exclusion of all else, affluent Woke phoneys get to have their cake & eat it … ostentatiously playing the role of morally good progressives while scapegoating poorer whites & quietly consolidating their own power & privilege.
Really quite Reactionary … in so many ways the antithesis of the genuine Left.
So spare me your fake morality, spare me your bullshit.
Honestly swordfish, don't know why you get that impression – imho the 'sharing' should be based on need ("From each according to his ability, to each according to their need" – Marx), but selfishness and greed ensure that disadvantaged groups are pitted against each other.
You appear to be a bit of a mindreader – explains your "old frauds", "affluent Woke phoneys", "fake morality" and "bullshit" jibes. Fwiw I’m not naturally aggressive, and there’s no need for me or anyone else to promote “white privilege“, aggressively or otherwise. I don't have any health insurance, and yes, I was lucky enough to have a privileged start – both parents were teachers in the NZ public education system, and I did relatively well out of that system myself.
Wishing you and your parents all the best for the rest of your evening.
Is anyone finding when they go to a screening or specialist appointment if they are asked if they have had a Covid vaccination?
Funny you should ask… the 70 year old, physically disabled Better Half has visited the local hospital twice in the past month. Once through A&E and once for a specialist appointment. We expected to be asked about and/or offered Te Jab both times, but alas, no.
Despite the hospital being slap bang in the middle of 'jab any one who'll stand still long enough' central…not one medical professional seem to think it was an issue.
We didn't see a single sign promoting Te Jab either.
Looks like the world has been misled about the effectiveness of hydroxychloriquine in the early stages of Covid19 treatment. Perhaps those who instantly rejected its use because Trump may be feeling a bit embarrassed which is probably nothing compared to the feelings of the hundreds if thousands of Covid19 victims who could well have been helped and probably survived.https://c19hcq.com/
Still, these things need to be properly researched, investigated, and trialled before jumping to conclusions. What applies to the large general population may not apply to smaller sub-groups of patients, which complicates trials. Common sense is not a scientific-clinical argument and there’s usually a little more to it to justify the effort, expense, and ethics for undertaking (large) trials with sometimes very ill people.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/world/2021/06/coronavirus-vitamin-d-supplements-likely-useless-against-covid-19-for-most-study.html
did you look at my link?
With a link address like that, it's obviously a thoroughly unbiased collection of the latest peer-reviewed research on the topic and no conflicts of interest /sarc
That is not how you approach a pandemic though, there isn't time to do comprehensive research on treatments, you use whatever works. Off-label drug treatments are a key part of rolling out rapid medical counter measures in a pandemic. The safety research has already been done as many of these medications have been in use in the general population for decades. So all you really need to do is run trials.
Why would the site owners use a dodgy registrar?
https://fraud-reports.wikia.org/wiki/Tucows
https://who.is/whois/c19hcq.com
Here is something to cheer everyone up on a Friday –
https://undocs.org/S/2021/229
Page 77:
"…Logistics convoys and retreating HAF were subsequently hunted down and remotely engaged by the unmanned combat aerial vehicles or the lethal autonomous weapons systems such as the STM Kargu-2 (see annex 30) and other loitering munitions. The lethal autonomous weapons systems were programmed to attack targets without requiring data connectivity between the operator and the munitions…"
Possibly the first recorded case of an autonomous Robot deliberately killing humans.
BTW a Kargu-2 is a quadcopter armed with a powerful anti-personnel fragmentation device (i.e. a very large hand grenade) that uses machine learning and algorythms to autonomously select and attack targets.
Who cares about Asimov's Laws of Robotics, or indeed, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) principles of robotics?
@weka – apologies for lack of response on Twitter, am now completely locked out. Will provide screenshot once I have access again.
Damn. Will catch up when you’re out.
If they build a bigger Auckland harbour bridge won’t the traffic increase?
Well if we are all to drive electric vehicles in the future – and grow our population – then yes we will need a bigger bridges and roads.
Build a bridge that takes bikes, feet, skateboards, scooters, trains, maybe buses, maybe taxis, and increase ferries 😈
I don't disagree with you, but i don't see it happen really.
And who will use it ?There are only a few who live within 5km of the bridge, and of those who commute daily. I also note that the areas within 5km are some of the most expensive housing in Auckland, great for those who live in Manukau, Albany out west etc. who have to battle with very limited public transport. Nice to see our government have policies for the few – the same few who are benefitting from the housing situation pocketing over $432k from June 19 to June 20.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/auckland-house-prices-defy-covid-herne-bay-homes-make-almost-seven-times-more-money-in-one-year-than-average-city-worker/Q5KFBQBTTWIBLIFJPLUBKZJOTM/
I also noticed that last weeks demonstration was less diverse than the PGA Championship held in Kiawah Is just out from Charleston North Carolina- Even Efeso Collins noted this.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/new-auckland-harbour-bridge-second-standalone-bridge-for-cyclists-pedestrians-confirmed/CM4653SLAHKBUFBNWD5XPGN3N4/
Good pint about the lack of diversity.
I am surprised at the traction this story has gathered since the protest. Incredible the power of enraged lycra.
NZTA are in advanced planning for a tunnel, not a new traffic bridge.
So Existing bridge for vehicles, tunnel for trains and buses, small briddge for cycling and walking? Wow, NZTA really have protected the harbour bridge for cars only…
Defends of the bridge it could have less carlanes more space for dedicated pt lanes etc.
The very short term trick is to keep traffic flowing as smoothly as possible given shorter travel times equate to lower emissions. Tbf if govt were serious they would make public transport free, increase frequency and perhaps dedicate a bridge lane to the busway… that and really push hybrid or full electric cars. They are immediate things that will be of some benefit while infrastructure work is completed.
Its going to be a good 5-10 years before meaningful infrastructure is completed
If they build a cycle /pedestrian only bridge will that reduce the vehicle traffic on the existing bridge?
At certain times but I'd suggest it would be insignificant… sure some will convert but between weather and distance to even get to the bridge on cycle would preclude most…
Would get plenty of use on weekends holidays etc but its not a solution for commute based congestion. That needs rail or bus more hubs more park n rides increased frequency etc
Why can't they just put a cycleway clip on on the existing bridge? Light weight. Doesn't have to be a major drama.
Bridge structure is at capacity and I suspect putting an additional lane on one side would present problems around balance, weight perhaps not not biggest issue more likely wind pressure etc… its amazing how much those outer lanes flex and move…
oh well, parole for "public toilet rapist Daniel Peter Moore's'
i wonder what the victim got? Some counselling sessions?
but fear not, while in prison he 'bettered himself',
Seriously? And the women? Just some 'collateral damage' being done by someone opportunitistic? I wonder if she got any taxpayer funded job skills and tertiary study?
maybe that is what needs to be done, these guys get fuck all in prison, no work, no study, nothing, and the funds saved will go towards the victim and her trauma counselling, her work rehabilitation and some tertiary studies.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/tokyo-olympics-kiwi-medallist-lorraine-moller-says-inclusion-of-transgender-athletes-at-games-derails-womens-sport/UJZMLCP56LQILO7JX2SANUEIVE/
t
this headline is misleading. Not banned, just banned from competiting with women
BSA complaints material I think. Pretty bad article too. Like they can’t say trans woman and trans man.
Didn't see that.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/125332758/pike-river-families-launch-court-action-against-sealing-of-the-mine
Ian Powell on TDB has some interesting points on what goes in the health system here. And I don't have to go far in before I get goosebumps about what we will have if the Grand Leap Forward goes forward to a centralised hospital system with a Grand Computer System that Rules Over All.
https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2021/06/04/guest-blog-ian-powell-dirty-politics-in-action-smear-campaign-in-new-zealands-health-system/
Broadly speaking the prevailing leadership culture in New Zealand’s health system is managerialism which involves decision-making through a very narrow lens that is management rather than clinically and patient-centred driven. Within district health boards (DHBs) this can be alleviated by the closer proximity between senior managers and health professionals and largely overcome where there is sufficient oxygen to enable genuine engagement between them. The more distributed the engagement at all levels the more clinically and fiscally effective it is.
But with the Ministry of Health it is different. There is no equivalent proximity and the managerialism takes the form of a top-down, more distant, bureaucratic centralism leadership culture. When it comes into conflict over specific issues with a DHB that has progressed strongly in the direction of genuine engagement then it is a recipe for, at best, negative tension.
At worst it can degenerate into dirty bureaucratic politics as was experienced by Canterbury DHB (CDHB) in its escalating conflict with the Health Ministry over the recovery response to the devastation of the Christchurch earthquakes in 2010-11. This is discussed in detail in my two online articles published by the Democracy Project: https://democracyproject.nz/2021/04/15/ian-powell-a-very-bureaucratic-coup-part-one/ and https://democracyproject.nz/2021/05/19/ian-powell-a-very-bureaucratic-coup-part-two/.
The dirty bureaucratic politics was a smear campaign falsely claiming that CDHB’s increasing operational financial deficit was due to financial mismanagement by its senior management team. To succeed it was necessary to destroy the consensus reached between CDHB and the Health Ministry in 2018.
And here it comes.
Housing market: Risk of sharp correction rising – BNZ economists (msn.com)
From California to Ireland to Spain, when the housing bubble burst – to keep the prices up and reduce the supply the bulldozers were brought in to level new unsold houses. Sometimes even whole new sub-divisions to artificially limit supply.
We need urgent legislation to prevent that obscenity being repeated here.
There needs to be a law that no new home be allowed to be demolished while there is still homelessness in this country.
Half finished apartment blocks and new housing estates that were never occupied litter the landscape in Europe and North America just waiting to be bulldozed. No doubt this is how the housing bubble will burst here as well.
Before we reach that place. legislation needs to be enacted that no new dwelling will be allowed to be demolished and sent to a landfill on pain of confiscation by the state.
London:
https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2018/mar/12/buyer-led-development-what-the-schemes-look-like-now
Ireland:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2531852/Exorcising-Irelands-ghost-estates-Demolition-begins-housing-projects-built-economic-boom-left-country-300-000-homes.html
Spain:
http://www.30y3.com/markel-redondo-tu-casa-es-mi-casa-2/
US:
http://business.time.com/2011/08/01/bulldoze-the-new-way-to-foreclose/