Open mike 05/08/2016

101 comments on “Open mike 05/08/2016 ”

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1. les jones 1

   5 August 2016 at 8:12 am

   [Moved to Open Mike. Obviously didn’t read the posts or engage brain before commenting.]

   This 10-15% reduction is not necessary. You should check out the nzpostcarbon website to see a plan to make nz carbon negative by 2036. Having a percentage reduction is wrong, it should be a straight line, which allows time for society to adapt to the changes. Agriculture, which you don’t talk much about, has to be half of our reductions too. I calculate a 2.8 mtn year on year reduction in gross and an increase of the forest sink from current 24to 36 mats would do the trick.
2. The Chairman 2

   5 August 2016 at 8:16 am

   The Youth Vote

   http://www.vice.com/en_au/video/vice-asks-why-the-youth-vote-matters

   Thoughts?
   • Jenz 2.1

     5 August 2016 at 12:22 pm

     Some families don’t discuss politics at all, exhusband gets furious that the kids know about politics, apparently kids should not have an opinion on that topic until they are 18. Foolish man, they can’t make an informed decision unless they start learning about it young.
     Even funnier is they know more about what’s going on in politics than he does, proud of them, they have taught him much. I guess it depends on peoples upbringing, politics was always discussed when I was grown up, so is the norm, and as a result i make it the norm of my children’s lives.
     Should be part of all children’s learning at high school, my kids are at primary school still.

     Great link ty for sharing
     • One Two 2.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 1:38 pm

       Time learning and teaching practical skills arming youngsters thorough processes for the ability to think critically and logically

       Then they will be capable of nagivating the corrupted human constructs such as politics, which people believe are ‘necessary’ and ‘real’. They are not

       Giving children the skills of critical evaluation techniques should be the one of the primary objectives of parents
       • Jenz 2.1.1.1

         5 August 2016 at 3:10 pm

         Strongly agree. And kids need to know they don’t have to think like their parents, they just need to think, and parents need to understand that it’s ok for kids to make different choices than them as long as they’ve put thought into it.

         A nation of independent thinkers however is not what some governments want. But imagine the inventions it would create, a nation of sheep no more, yes please
     • The Chairman 2.1.2

       6 August 2016 at 8:20 am

       The link also highlights a number of flaws in our current political system.

       It’s complex. And no matter how politically informed we are, to a large degree we’re all voting blind.

       There is nothing preventing parties from introducing new policy (which they never campaigned on, thus we never voted upon) once in power.

       Moreover, there is the dilemma of voters not supporting all of the policies of the particular party they select.

       A number of these youth grow to become adult non-voters for largely the same reasons.

       If we genuinely want to address this and a number of other issues, our current political structure needs to be revisited.

       While we’ve made improvements like changing to MMP, more could and should be done. If we want better political outcomes we require to continue to improve our political structure.

       A form of Direct Democracy will help address these current flaws, removing a lot of the complexity (allowing voters more opportunity to vote on single issues, opposed to coming to terms with a wide range of issues within a party’s policy manifesto and only voting once every 3 years) while giving voters more say, thus power and control.

       NZ First has a form of Direct Democracy on offer, albeit one that could also be improved upon. But it is a start in a more democratic direction.

       Like the UBI, a form of Direct Democracy is something that should be put out for wider public discussion and consideration.

       https://youtu.be/OMPvxPox1kA
       • Jenz 2.1.2.1

         6 August 2016 at 8:35 am

         great link, I enjoy your outlook, and intelligent thoughts, gives one much food for thought and fresh information, thanks Chairman much appreciated
         • The Chairman 2.1.2.1.1

           6 August 2016 at 8:54 am

           Nice. Thanks Jenz.
3. Nck 3

   5 August 2016 at 8:27 am

   Listening to Blinglish on radio NZ lying about P in houses is exactly the same as listening to nicksmith lying about 3% overseas house buyers….. It makes me want to cry that these guys are in charge of anything and destroying NZ…… And just think, DonKey is at the top of his shit mountain
   • ianmac 3.1

     5 August 2016 at 9:15 am

     Yes Nick. Bill’s line is that just because a couple of scientists say that the test is wrong is not a reason to change the test. So the evictions will continue for a long time yet.
     Could it be a plan concocted from the Beehive?
4. Jenz 4

   5 August 2016 at 8:57 am

   Thanks to the Chiefs being all over the news Ive had to have a conversation with my 11 yr old girl about how drunk kiwi men behave towards women. Is that why you don’t like drunk men mum? Yes darling it is.
   • James 4.1

     5 August 2016 at 9:36 am

     What about drunk women?

     Ive seen some terrible behaviour by women when they have been drinking (Hens nights etc) – and you should see how they treat male strippers?
     • mauī 4.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 9:50 am

       Piss off idiot, you weren’t a male stripper in a past life.
       • James 4.1.1.1

         5 August 2016 at 12:31 pm

         Didnt say I was. I was a barman.

         Now how about answering the question – or are ill-informed insults all you have?
         • mauī 4.1.1.1.1

           5 August 2016 at 1:06 pm

           Why answer a pointless diversion that makes a mockery of a serious problem.
     • miravox 4.1.2

       5 August 2016 at 9:52 am

       You’re right. It’s really shite when drunk women behave like drunk men. No respect.
     • Jenz 4.1.3

       5 August 2016 at 12:01 pm

       Last time i saw boozey chicks at a hensnight with a male stripper, I was DJing, male stripper was not touched except when he placed the ‘hens’ hands on himself. Sadly he was a terrible stripper. No one asked to lick his arse, no one threw stones at him, no one abuse him, everyone was like, oh we won’t be hiring him again he was terrible (after he left of course).
       That being said drunks have no class male or female. Big difference between going to a strip club and having a stripper come to a party, chicks that go to male stripper clubs go crazy, but it is a controlled environment, unlike the chiefs party.

       Still the Chiefs are heros in some kids eyes, rugby culture and drinking culture in NZ is disgraceful, hopefully this will continue getting coverage and people will wake up and take control of their own behaviour.
       PS I’m no prude, but dang calm down rugby boys, makes one wonder how sad their intimate lives must be if they act like animals when confronted with a woman whom dances to music while removing her clothing. Bikers have more class when they see a stripper perform compared to the Chiefs, food for thought huh?
     • Sabine 4.1.4

       5 August 2016 at 12:48 pm

       actually should drunk women and / or men sexually harass, grope a male stripper and expect him to act as a ‘whore’ and refuse to pay him for his services (stripping) that it would be the same scenario.

       sexual assault and theft.

       how is that so hard to understand? oh, you are one of these apologists…..got it.
       • One Anonymous Bloke 4.1.4.1

         5 August 2016 at 4:28 pm

         +1

         Well said.
         • In Vino 4.1.4.1.1

           5 August 2016 at 9:59 pm

           + another 1
     • whispering kate 4.1.5

       5 August 2016 at 8:33 pm

       James you whitter on about drunk women, this female was a stripper and not drunk and her job was to strip, nothing else was required of her. She is entitled to strip for an income just like guys can strip for an income or be a hooker if they choose. There are rules around these kinds of occupations and if men or women can’t control their groping whilst being in the audience they should remove themselves. Just like being a prostitute, there are rules in place, condoms to be used, no kissing, other requirements as well. Just because women have a more cerebral attitude towards sex and a man’s brain is in his penis doesn’t excuse voyeurs who are looking on to break the rules.

       I heard on the news another woman who had stripped for the Chiefs last year got a right old unpleasant time with the guys – maybe their management team need to reign in these cowboys, keep them on home detention and teach them some restraint and manners. They are professional sportsmen and if any staff of a company were to carry on like that at a function with a stripper – and I have been to one with staff – then there would be a right old bollocking by the boss afterwards.
   • marty mars 4.2

     5 August 2016 at 12:54 pm

     Good one jenz
5. miravox 5

   5 August 2016 at 9:09 am

   NZ has problems with sport and alcohol? It’s not rocket science.

   http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/small-business/82807995/new-bat–beer-pong-product-thirstbat-labelled-as-juvenile-and-silly

   and yet there is nothing to $top this $tuff. The brains behind it promote ‘re$pon$ible drinking’.
   • ianmac 5.1

     5 August 2016 at 9:18 am

     As daft as those yard long glasses miravox.
     • miravox 5.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 9:35 am

       Yup… we’re meant to be getting better at this sort of thing.
6. Bob 6

   5 August 2016 at 10:09 am

   I just wanted to jump on this morning and apologise to anyone I have previously offended for my long held stance that females are already treated as equals in our current society.
   After reading about the current situation with the Chiefs rugby team, and the abhorrent responses by both the Chiefs CEO and the representative from Gallagher’s towards the exotic dancer, I can now see that society still has a long way to go before true equality is even close to being reached.

   “Major sponsor Gallagher Group on Thursday offered little sympathy for the stripper.
   Corporate services executive Margaret Comer said: “If a woman takes her clothes off and walks around in a group of men, what are we supposed to do if one of them tries to touch her.””
   What the fuck kind of response is this, and why the fuck has this women not been publicly vilified by her employer??? If a women takes her clothes off and walks around in a group of men, then she should be left the fuck alone, if she is hired to take her clothes off and walk around, she should still be left the fuck alone! She is hired to strip for visual enjoyment, not to be sexually harassed. The fact that there hasn’t been more public outrage over the Chiefs behaviour and the subsequent public responses makes me question how mature we actually are as a nation.
   I really hope one of the players gets hauled up in front of the courts for their actions.
   • Puckish Rogue 6.1

     5 August 2016 at 10:20 am

     “If a woman takes her clothes off and walks around in a group of men, what are we supposed to do if one of them tries to touch her.””

     Completely agree, this guy needs to be fired as there is no justification for that at all
     • Bob 6.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 11:00 am

       She (Margaret Comer (NZ Order of Merit for services to philanthropy)), is a trustee on the board of Waikato Women’s Refuge which just makes her comments that much more disgusting!
       • Puckish Rogue 6.1.1.1

         5 August 2016 at 11:10 am

         That’s even worse, that’s victim blaming
   • weka 6.2

     5 August 2016 at 10:28 am

     Nice one Bob, on both counts.

     It’s the next big step in cultural shift around gender and sex, body sovereignty. None of us have right of access to other people’s bodies without their consent. It’s not what we think that counts, it’s what the person whose body it is thinks that matters.
     • Bob 6.2.1

       5 August 2016 at 11:04 am

       “It’s the next big step in cultural shift around gender and sex, body sovereignty”
       Forgive me for my ignorance, but I had previously been under the impression that this shift had already occurred, the last couple of days have been a massive eye opener for me.
       • weka 6.2.1.1

         5 August 2016 at 11:18 am

         I do think it’s changing, but too many still don’t understand this basic principle, which is part of why we still have such high rates of sexual assault, abuse and harassment. It’s common enough for some men to express confusion over consent issues, as if they don’t understand that it’s not their ideas that count, it’s the ideas of the person’s body they are trying to access. We should be teaching this stuff in school. I think most men want to do the right thing, but are still supported by socialisation that tells them that women’s bodies are objects and attainable.
         • Puckish Rogue 6.2.1.1.1

           5 August 2016 at 12:58 pm

           Hmm ok here we go, delving into this pool is not something I take lightly but here goes nothing…

           Most men do indeed want to do the right thing but what makes a man a man?

           Remembering back to when I was in my teens there was one thing I wanted more then anything else, I won’t fall to the cliché of saying it was the only thing but it was certainly the most important

           So at the time it was very much treat women with respect, girls can do anything etc etc but really I just wanted to get my end away

           I think the issue (or at least part of it) is that men, in organised groups, can quite easily revert back to hormone driven teenagers because, for some, being in these organised groups can actually inhibit maturity ie you’re a man at 20 but emotionally you’re still a teen

           I’ve seen this for myself, in various forms, from my time in rugby, rowing, uni, the army so I’ve seen how easy it could be for things to go overboard

           Now take all that and add in the hero worship factor and the money factor of being a professional sportsperson and I don’t think its a big surprise to anyone that this happens, in fact I’d bet money that this, and similar, happens a lot more often but a supplicant media and “donation” of money to the victim probably helps it go away

           But it can be done, the All Blacks appear to have managed to be far and away the best team in the world without being a bunch of a**holes about it (could be good media management though)

           So while more stuff can be taught in schools it will only work with buy-in from other organisations such as sports club and other such organisations
           • McFlock 6.2.1.1.1.1

             5 August 2016 at 3:27 pm

             If I recall correctly, about ten or twenty years ago the ABs had a spate difficulties with some of their older and younger members getting stonkered and committing crimes of greater or lesser degree.

             ISTR at the time they basically said “we have a problem” and talked about instituted mentoring, alcohol bans, media and behaviour training, and even financial advice for new ABs so they don’t blow their “set up for life” salaries on TVs and expensive liquor.

             With one or two lapses, admittedly, but without the ongoing dramas that the NRL have committed, it really does come down to the team leadership having to set the limits for acceptable behaviour.

             Pack mentality is common with adolescents – it’s the coach’s job to control it, just as much as it is teaching them a new play.
             • Puckish Rogue …

               5 August 2016 at 3:37 pm

               Agreed, the best way to stop this is for the All Blacks management to pass on their “no dickheads” rule down to super 15 teams that behaviour like this will not help anyones chances of getting selected
           • weka 6.2.1.1.1.2

             5 August 2016 at 3:36 pm

             I agree that the ABs etc do have special responsibilities and things they need to address specificly that come with money and fame, but I’d also point out that the underlying attitudes are not to do with money and fame and this aspect of rape culture exists in lots of places. It’s the socialisation that men have around entitlement to women’s bodies. And that socialisation starts young.
             • Puckish Rogue …

               5 August 2016 at 3:45 pm

               I know its a cliché but in this instance I think the media is most to blame for this

               I mean look at Beyoncé, shes held up as a powerful, fierce feminist women making massive strides in business yet the reality is she dresses half naked for her music videos and stays married to a man worth half a billion dollars that’s (allegedly) cheated on her more than once

               Or if you want to be famous quickly have sex with someone and release the tape (sorry have the tape released “accidently”)

               However attitudes have changed but it seems like one step forward two steps back at the moment
               • weka …

                 5 August 2016 at 3:57 pm

                 Again, rape culture exists everywhere, even in place without fame and money.

                 Including in this thread 😉

                 Beyonce can do what she wants with her body. So can someone wanting to get famous by having sex and releasing it on tape. Whatever we might think of those things in terms of morals or good taste, they’re not about sexual assault. If we think that Beyonce wearing revealing clothing leads men to think that they can touch other women how they want, then we’re saying that women have to take responsibility for men’s lack of sense or self control. Which is hugely regressive, and takes us straight back to rape culture i.e. it’s really women who are to blame.
                 • Puckish Rogue …

                   5 August 2016 at 4:16 pm

                   That’s a good point but it seems like we want to teach boys to respect women while the media simultaneously bombards boys with images of women being sexual playthings that are there for the taking which also teaches young girls that being sexy and hot is all important and that sex is no big deal

                   I’ve no problems with women being sexual and wearing very little if that’s what they like and choose to do but can young girls differentiate between dressing sexy because you want or dressing sexy because you think that’s what makes you popular and successful?

                   I’m just glad I’m not young anymore
                   • McFlock …

                     5 August 2016 at 4:29 pm

                     lols about being glad to be old – the aches are made up for by slightly shallower depths of insecurity, in my experience.

                     But really, if anyone is clear that she sets the limits, it’s B.

                     One thing I’ve found fascinating while watching my family’s next generation grow up is that she’s much smarter about self, sexuality and empowerment than I was, even going to the same school. Most of her friends seem smarter about it than kids in my day, as well. However, the boys seems to be as dropkicky as I remember being.
             • Psycho Milt …

               5 August 2016 at 3:51 pm

               … the underlying attitudes are not to do with money and fame…

               Absolutely. The only thing money and fame contributed to this is news media interest – there’s presumably a shitload of other strippers who’ve been molested by customers the media wouldn’t be interested in.
   • Halfcrown 6.3

     5 August 2016 at 11:14 am

     Nice one. agree 200%
   • BM 6.4

     5 August 2016 at 11:15 am

     How about when she accepts $50.00 in exchange for getting her arsehole licked.

     Bit more than just stripping happening here, obviously quite a bit of audience participation going on .

     How about hanging off the calls for lynching and wait and see what comes out after the investigation.
     • weka 6.4.1

       5 August 2016 at 11:19 am

       Do you accept that she has a basic right in that job to determine what happens with her body? Or do you think that the men in the room get to decide?
     • Bob 6.4.2

       5 August 2016 at 11:25 am

       If she is offering a service and being paid for it there is no problem. She was not offering a groping service, so any groping is blatant harassment.
       Put it this way, would you accept their actions to be fine if they did it to a bank teller? There is no difference.
       • BM 6.4.2.1

         5 August 2016 at 11:35 am

         Apparently 4 other guys got in on the rimming action but didn’t pay and she wasn’t very happy about not receiving payment for “services” rendered.
         Which is probably why this rather sordid behavior is in the media right now.

         Don’t think there would be a lot of happy wives/girlfriends in the chiefs community at the mo. Idiots.
         • joe90 6.4.2.1.1

           5 August 2016 at 11:53 am

           What ever happened to the raffle?.
         • Colonial Viper 6.4.2.1.2

           5 August 2016 at 1:34 pm

           Total cheating cheap skate morons.
         • In Vino 6.4.2.1.3

           5 August 2016 at 10:03 pm

           BM – To know so much, you can only be an insider..?
       • mary_a 6.4.2.2

         5 August 2016 at 3:33 pm

         @ Bob (6.4.2) … I’d go further than call it harassment. If the woman involved did not give permission to be touched, she was assaulted!
         • Bob 6.4.2.2.1

           5 August 2016 at 4:23 pm

           I stand corrected
     • Psycho Milt 6.4.3

       5 August 2016 at 3:53 pm

       How about hanging off the calls for lynching and wait and see what comes out after the investigation.

       How much investigation do you figure is needed to establish that you’re not allowed to sexually molest people without their permission? That one’s not really up for debate, is it?
   • Jenz 6.5

     5 August 2016 at 12:07 pm

     Nicely put Bob, I feel that Womens Refugee should disown Margaret Comer, sadly Gallagher Group are probably big donators, and Womens Refugee need all the help they can get.
     Happy this is getting coverage, discussion needs to be had, hopefully with all rugby players tomorrow in the changing rooms at their Saturday games.
     • Bob 6.5.1

       5 August 2016 at 12:46 pm

       Completely agree.
       As for Margaret Comer, she’s now apologised which is a start I guess: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11687856
     • veutoviper 6.5.2

       5 August 2016 at 2:32 pm

       Margaret Comer is a trustee of Waikato Women’s Refuge, which apparently withdrew its affiliation to the Women’s Refuge NZ national collective some time ago.

       Women’s Refuge NZ has spoken out against Mrs Comer’s comments and Dr Ang Jury, CEO of the collective appeared on Checkpoint last night.

       Here is a link to their Twitter account for details and links to Checkpoint etc.

       https://twitter.com/womensrefugenz

       Update – further discussion on Comer, links etc at 10 below.
       • Jenz 6.5.2.1

         5 August 2016 at 3:05 pm

         Another stripper has just come out against the Chiefs, interestingly enough in the report on the news, they said that the 2nd stripper was spat at among others things and would rather perform for a gang than the Chiefs. Just wows it’s all coming out now

         .
   • Rosie 6.6

     5 August 2016 at 3:26 pm

     On ya Bob.

     Yes, the woman, Scarlette, is hired to strip. That is her job. It is a legal and legitimate job. She is covered under the Health and Safety Act as well as the Employment Relations Act.

     Her workplace experience, legally, like anyone else’s should be free of abuse, non consensual touching and sexual harassment.

     I am sick to death of these thuggish sports players getting away with this shit.

     I was even more horrified to hear that the woman who condoned the behaviour of the players, Margaret Comer, is a trustee on the Board of Women’s Refuge.

     She needs to stand down as she does not even understand the basics of boundaries and abuse, and of the power imbalance present in this situation. She has no place being any where near Women’s Refuge.
     • Halfcrown 6.6.1

       5 August 2016 at 7:30 pm

       I disagree with you Rosie, This is now getting out of hand. Although I agree with a lot of the comments, I also feel for Comer. I heard the comment on the radio and I thought she was up the sharp end without a spear having no doubt a microphone or possibly on a cell phone with the interviewer demanding an instant opinion, Although I did not like what she said and I feel she really should have said something like “I don’t know the whole story and I will get back to you as soon as possible etc.” but she didn’t and is condemned for her utterances. This has taken the spotlight off the thugs and louts that were the problem in the first place.

       It is now turning into a Comer witch hunt. A witch hunt that should be directed to the louts at the function who really should be questioned.
       But they are thugby players arn’t they, next to god, so move the spotlight over to another area.
       • Rosie 6.6.1.1

         5 August 2016 at 9:01 pm

         I wouldn’t have any “sympathy” for Comer, as she had had no “sympathy” for Scarlette. There is no need to “feel for her”. She was well out of order.

         You are right in the fact that attention has conveniently hovered away from the players momentarily, but these situations can happen side by side, as they have done. No one should accept what the players have done, or how Comer indulged in victim blaming. Both situations are equally horrific in different ways.

         Sure, people make mistakes, but Margaret Comer is on the board of trustees for Women’s Refuge Waikato. Her words are intolerable for someone in her position. She is meant to be standing besides victims and standing up for them, not kicking them while they’re down.

         Kind of like having that woman abusing PM as a white ribbon ambassador FFS.
7. Puckish Rogue 7

   5 August 2016 at 10:25 am

   http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/82842289/french-halal-supermarket-told-to-sell-alcohol-and-pork-or-face-closure

   The lease stated the shop must act as a “general food store”, and the authority argued the local community was not being served well without alcohol and pork products in the store.

   They may think they have a point but…I’d side with the shop on this, if they want to sell Halal only then good on them, they may or may not lose out on some business but that should be their decision
   • BM 7.1

     5 August 2016 at 10:31 am

     The french only allow a certain number of shop types in a particular area.

     For example there can be only xxx number of butchers to this ratio of people, the whole idea being that the butchers can make a living and are not put out of business by excessive competition.

     I’d say the same rule would apply to a “general food store”, you might only be allowed to have one “general food store” in that particular area and because it’s not selling pork or booze it’s not fulfilling it’s obligations to all members of that community.
     • Puckish Rogue 7.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 10:43 am

       Ah ok I wasn’t aware of how France do things but it wouldn’t be so bad if we had something like that here, especially in regards to 2 dollar shops…

       A little socialism can be useful…only a little though
8. John shears 8

   5 August 2016 at 11:02 am

   Why am I unable to find any posts on TS about the Vancouver tax on house sales to foreign buyers? thought it was in open mike a day or two ago.

   http://globalnews.ca/news/2861138/metro-vancouver-home-sales-dropped-by-75-after-foreign-buyer-tax-announcement-realtor/

   Vancouver/British Columbia similar populations to Auckland & NZ .
   • James Thrace 8.1

     5 August 2016 at 11:21 am

     It’s there. The post is called “government puts 15% tax on foreign buyers”
     • John shears 8.1.1

       5 August 2016 at 11:31 am

       Thanks JT but I must being doing something wrong as I cannot open the post.
   • weka 8.2

     5 August 2016 at 11:27 am

     I saw something about that the other day too. I don’t think the search function is working though.
9. John shears 9

   5 August 2016 at 11:26 am

   New Zealand One News June 17 2016
   Pharmac unsure when heart medicine shortage resolved

   Metoprolol supplies rationed to Pharmacists Pharmac cannot say when
   shortage will be resolved ,supplies are on way from Indian factory.
   Pharmac news August 1st 2016.

   More than 280,000 Kiwis depend on one of these tablets every day and they are being rationed and have been for most of 2016 in my experience.
10. joe90 10

    5 August 2016 at 12:07 pm

    Ms Comer is getting an absolute shellacking on twitter.
    • Jenz 10.1

      5 August 2016 at 12:14 pm

      good job, maybe she is not being “touched” in her intimate life, could be why she came out in support of the chiefs, frigid angry woman sides with drunk rugby perverts. Jealousy aint classy Ms Comer, get a grip you foolish woman, toys a plenty up KRoad, he’s a gift voucher, sort your self out if no one else will. Dang !
      • Sabine 10.1.1

        5 August 2016 at 12:53 pm

        and that comment was about as vile and useless as her comment.
        • Jenz 10.1.1.1

          5 August 2016 at 1:05 pm

          maybe, but i needed to get that out, everyone has needs and if a persons needs are not being met their behaviour will reflect it. Consensual loving intimacy creates less stress as well as more understanding and self control. Taboo topic for some perhaps.
          • weka 10.1.1.1.1

            5 August 2016 at 1:21 pm

            Your comment above is just as much a part of the problem as what’s happened with the Cheifs. It’s not taboo, it’s blatant misogyny.
            • marty mars 10.1.1.1.1.1

              5 August 2016 at 1:28 pm

              + 1
            • Jenz 10.1.1.1.1.2

              5 August 2016 at 2:07 pm

              maybe i was too rude in my wording, it was not meant to offend, let me put it into a scientific perspective, we need more Oxytocin in the world, that would heal and help so many, it’s part of what is missing in today’s society. Whether Oxytocin is self administered or through another. I’m glad she apologised, and I too apologise if any took my comments offensively. However so many things are not said, and maybe they should be.
              If you are not too sure what Oxytocin is or how to get it…. here is a link
              http://io9.gizmodo.com/5925206/10-reasons-why-oxytocin-is-the-most-amazing-molecule-in-the-world
              • weka …

                5 August 2016 at 3:23 pm

                Making the suggestion that any woman needs certain kinds of sexual activity is hugely problematic, not least because it is part of rape culture. There are people who believe that some women just need a good fuck, and use this to dismiss rape. Your comment wasn’t quite that, but it was patronising to suggest that you know anything about the woman concerned or she does or doesn’t need. The whole issue here is around body sovereignty and people’s right to choose what happens to their bodies.

                I know what you mean about oxytocin, but I’m not sure there is way to bring that into this political conversation without being offensive. To me she came across as thoughtless and probably bigoted, nothing to do with hormones.
                • Rosie …

                  5 August 2016 at 3:35 pm

                  +1 weka. Well said.
              • One Anonymous Bloke …

                5 August 2016 at 4:35 pm

                I too apologise if any took my comments offensively

                So you’re apologising for the state of people’s minds now. Is it an attempt to add insult to your existing injurious behaviour, or just thoughtlessness?

                Apologise for your own behaviour (when appropriate) or don’t bother.
        • veutoviper 10.1.1.2

          5 August 2016 at 2:37 pm

          I agree, Sabine – especially as I read somewhere online today that Mrs Comer’s husband of many years died suddenly and unexpectedly a few months ago.
          • Jenz 10.1.1.2.1

            5 August 2016 at 3:02 pm

            that is awful in that case she needs some oxytocin, big hugs to her for her loss
    • Rosie 10.2

      5 August 2016 at 3:32 pm

      Good joe90. Good comments. Glad to see a male comedian chipping in too.
11. joe90 11

    5 August 2016 at 1:24 pm

    Desperation..?

    As a #NeverTrumper would you take that deal? Donald exits on condition that @RNC nominate Donald Jr, Eric or Ivanka? https://t.co/J7Hm4yD4J3— Hugh Hewitt (@hughhewitt) August 4, 2016
    • One Two 11.1

      5 August 2016 at 1:42 pm

      https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7LYRUOd_QoM

      ‘Balance’

      [Any more trolling will see you exited from this site. Start writing original comments rather than repasting the same idea repeatedly. Only warning. TRP]
    • One Two 11.2

      5 August 2016 at 1:51 pm

      https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=IPL2JlJBuqs

      Racists?
      • te reo putake 11.2.1

        5 August 2016 at 1:55 pm

        Not racists.

        In his last autobiography, Byrd explained that he was a KKK member because he “was sorely afflicted with tunnel vision — a jejune and immature outlook — seeing only what I wanted to see because I thought the Klan could provide an outlet for my talents and ambitions.” Byrd also said, in 2005, “I know now I was wrong. Intolerance had no place in America. I apologized a thousand times … and I don’t mind apologizing over and over again. I can’t erase what happened.”
        • One Two 11.2.1.1

          5 August 2016 at 2:09 pm

          Not in your opinion

          In my opinion they are!

          Could you coherently articulate the difference between J90 comment and my own, which you appear so eager to censor?

          I mirrored J90 technique using a single descriptor for which you accused me of trollling, but not did not apply the same threat elsewhere
          • te reo putake 11.2.1.1.1

            5 August 2016 at 2:39 pm

            Joe90’s comment started with a single word sentence, but then was self explanatory in the next sentence. It was complete in and of itself.

            Yours was one word and a link. If you want to put up links, you need to put at least a basic explanation of where the link goes to avoid wasting people’s time. In this case you have linked to a mendacious right wing film on youtube that makes unsubstantiated claims about the next president of the USA.

            And please don’t accuse me of censoring you. I left the link up and didn’t alter your comment in any way. Lying about an author is an automatic six week ban. If the sun wasn’t shining on a beautiful Friday afternoon, you’d already be gone.
            • One Two 11.2.1.1.1.1

              5 August 2016 at 3:06 pm

              As I do not attach myself to ‘things or stuff’ …

              Could you provide an insight in how you believe the emotional investment required in ‘taking sides’ (of the next POTUS) might raise the collective consciousness of humanity?

              Perhaps I have misinterpreted your comments regarding the presidential ‘race’, but it appears to me that you are heavily attached to a certain outcome. Why?

              What happens next, from your perspective following either eventual ‘winner’ ?
              • te reo putake …

                5 August 2016 at 3:11 pm

                Usually, I’d be saying piss off you pompous git at about this point, but beautiful day etc. I’ve written plenty of posts in recent weeks. The answers you seek are most probably there.
                • One Two …

                  5 August 2016 at 4:08 pm

                  It was a sincere query, formed by reading your confused and frantic musings

                  Your writings and moderating approach exhibit such heavy bias, it is reasonable to presume you see yourself in Hillary Clinton, and whatever it is she represents

                  By not attaching ourselves, we gain space to observe and self evaluate which in turn enables the activation of critical external evaluation senses

                  The more honestly we can evaluate and understand ourselves, the more transparent ‘our world’ becomes and the less our human ego can blind and mislead us
                  • McFlock …

                    5 August 2016 at 4:22 pm

                    The web of life unfolds through new neural networks. True identity self interacts with boundless belonging. Therefore, Nature imparts reality to cosmic joy.
                    • te reo putake …

                      5 August 2016 at 4:55 pm

                      Deep stuff, indeed! I’ll just note that one two significantly undermines his philosophical detachment theory by attaching himself to a bullshit right wing hate site.

                      If a tree falls in the forest does it sound like one hand clapping?
                    • One Two []

                      6 August 2016 at 2:27 pm

                      I’ve explained my philosophical position to you in very simple terms, you don’t get alter or define that on my behalf, not even if it scares the daylights out of you
      • joe90 11.2.2

        5 August 2016 at 2:05 pm

        The past is a foreign country.
        /

        NBC poll: Clinton leads Trump among African-Americans 91% to 1% https://t.co/0y4cQmBYWf— Joel Siegel (@joelmsiegel) August 4, 2016
12. Rosemary McDonald 12

    5 August 2016 at 1:41 pm

    While the Gummint are restructuring Child, Youth and Family Services (yet again) and are doing the whole ‘re-branding’ thing with their nifty new name….exactly what form is the new structure going to take?

    And what is it going to cost?

    From the UK…http://www.bbc.com/news/education-36975478

    “Foster carers ‘poached with golden hellos’

    Large private foster agencies are offering cash incentives to recruit foster carers working for English local authorities – and then charging more for the service, councils say.
    Some agencies pay “golden hellos” of around £3,000, but then charge councils more to care for the same child.

    A recent independent review of residential care by government adviser Sir Martin Narey said that in 2014-15, eight commercial fostering agencies made around £41m in profit.
    The president of ADCS, Dave Hill, said that companies should not be profiteering from children in care and that they objected very strongly to “golden hellos”.”

    Repeat….eight commercial fostering agencies made around $41 MILLION PROFIT.

    Sorry to shout….but this is really important.

    The vulnerable child becomes a cash cow for unscrupulous businesses.

    Exactly the case for disabled New Zealanders, especially those under Ministry of Health, Disability Support Services.
    • save nz 12.1

      5 August 2016 at 2:52 pm

      Interesting links from war is boring.

      https://warisboring.com/to-understand-chinese-expansionism-look-to-the-opium-wars-fc96e2bba94#.4yg00gfk1

      https://warisboring.com/donald-trump-has-americanized-vladimir-putins-war-on-truth-1a09f95b67d9#.ffkpyiz3m
13. mac1 13

    5 August 2016 at 3:03 pm

    Marlborough, February 2016. Lake Elterwater dries out for first time since 2004

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/marlborough-express/news/76659054/Marlborough-lake-dries-out-for-first-time-since-2004

    Marlborough, 5 August 2016. 80 hectare Lake Elterwater is usually 1.5-2 meters deep at this time. Still bone dry at the end of winter. Marlborough Express headline “Lake so dry it’s now a field of oats.”

    http://nvs24.com/news/world/Marlborough-farmers-staring-at-3-year-drought-use-dry-lake-bed-to-feed-stock-7568308.html

    Oh, look over there, the Olympic Games!
14. mary_a 14

    5 August 2016 at 3:48 pm

    Re the Chiefs and the woman stripper …

    No one, regardless of the type of work being carried out for payment, stripping, prostitution and dancing included, deserves to be groped, or touched in an unwanted or threatening manner that causes offence or fear. To do so is assault, where if proven to have taken place, attracts penalties through the law.

    In this situation, the drunken rugby team members involved were driven it seems by an uncontrolled misogynistic attitude, combined with a feral pack mentality!
15. Colonial Viper 15

    5 August 2016 at 7:56 pm

    Everyone still going round and round in outrage about Comer and the Chiefs?

    Think strategically FFS. Get the Chiefs suspended from participating in the Investec Super Rugby organisation until a full independent investigation is completed.

    That’ll learn ‘m.
    • In Vino 15.1

      5 August 2016 at 10:05 pm

      It’s the foul, dirty sponsors that I blame.
    • Sabine 15.2

      5 August 2016 at 10:13 pm

      nah mate, the outrage is about the sexual assault. The rest is just the usual head in hands i can’t believe that in 2016 we still have to explain to certain people what consent and lack thereof means.

      but do continue, you were sayin?
16. Kropotkin 16

    6 August 2016 at 12:04 pm

    Workers are picketing Centre City New World in Dunedin this morning because their employers have refused to enter into negotiations with them. A group of employees are trying to hand out leaflets to the public, outlining their grievances, but security guards have been employed by the management to try to obstruct their protest. An acquaintance of mine confronted one of the guards after he snatched a leaflet out of his hand. The guard argued that the management didn’t want the public to read these. Is this legal?

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