"Trusted, impartial and independent? Or largely unaccountable and part of the Establishment? Sociologist Tom Mills considers the evidence on the enormously influential British Broadcasting Corporation or BBC."
A very interesting interview which goes a long way to explaining some of the very biased reporting from the BBC through some good old fashioned historical analysis…
The BBC has soiled its reputation so many times–Iraq WMD, Tony Blair, Russia, China, Mid East, Wikileaks etc. etc. it is amazing anyone takes it seriously as an accurate news source.
The Beeb has an old school tory class based internal culture (with a fair share of pervs of various persuasions).
I watch some BBC dramas, nicely produced usually–for a change from Netflix–but they too can have a sting–like submarine based whodunnit “Vigil” which has an interesting subtext supporting US and British Imperialism!
I remember my father telling me that the BBC did not report anti-nuclear testing activity by NZ against France in the Pacific….at a time the UK was hoping to join the EC and didn't want to offend the French (1970s)!
The head of Waikato's Mongrel Mob chapter was given an essential workers exemption to travel in and out of Auckland last weekend.
Newstalk ZB can reveal the exemption was granted to Sonny Fatupaito – who's been working with some of the harder to reach communities in the city, such as those with gang affiliations.
In a statement, via a spokesperson, Fatupaito said he has been liaising with health officials and police to assist in reaching people in communities within the gang's chapters and their whanau in Auckland.
He was asked to travel to Auckland by South Seas Healthcare, who have been co-ordinating much of the response to the South Auckland clusters.
I loathe the gangs. But I think this was probably a good thing to try. Will be interesting to see if it prompts any Auckland Mongrel Mob members to front up for Covid vaccinations.
But National's Police spokesman Simeon Brown is not convinced, and has called on the Government to front up on why Fatupaito was allowed to travel in and out of Auckland.
predictable knee jerk reaction from National. The answer's already in the news article. As many incentives as possible should be tried to get vax rates up as high as possible.
During my recent, admittedly brief, interaction with the Mongrel Mob, or the 'Kingdom' as they refer to themselves as.
What struck me most forcefully about the Mongrel Mob, was their poverty.
They say power corrupts. Well so does poverty.
My respect to Sonny Fatupaito for attempting to lift his people out of their degradation.
I heard him give a talk about the rise of P in the Waikato, which he claimed to have been against. Resorting to vigilante justice against the dealers. For which he was jailed. He said that when he was in prison many of younger 'Kingdom' members became P dealers.
Sonny Fatupaito recounted, that one day when he wasn't expecting any visitors he was called from his cell because there were visitors who wanted to see him.
As he told it, the visitors were senior Waikato police officers who told him we may have made a mistake.
Inequality and Shared Prosperity For more than two decades, extreme poverty was steadily declining. Now, for the first time in a generation, the quest to end poverty has suffered its worst setback.
There are exceptions, but it seems to me that most people with wealth and power don't really want society to change for the better, as they don't perceive that change to be in their own best interests, at least in the short-to-medium term. And who wants to think any further ahead these days?
If one aspires to extreme wealth then go for it – whatever floats your yacht. But it seems so pointless and short-sighted – an ‘own goal’ even.
Why poverty in New Zealand is everyone's concern
Liang describes poverty as a "heritable condition" that perpetuates and amplifies through generations: "It is also not hard to see how individual poverty flows into communities and society, with downstream effects on economics, crime and health, as well as many other systems. Loosen one strand and everything else unravels."
A Kete Half Empty Poverty is your problem, it is everyone's problem, not just those who are in poverty. – Rebecca, a child from Te Puru
I think the ever so slight loosening of restrictions is in recognition that at about 50% people need encouragement and hope that things are on the move and that contacts would become more surreptitious anyway. This is no way a” giving up” otherwise even at 95% the whining arseholes would be saying the Government was giving up the elimination strategy.
“Open up and let it rip” has been a relentless campaign in the media channels, which broke cover perhaps when sirkey was wheeled out. Brian Tamaki to some extent did what Judith Collins would liked NZ National to have done!
The sheer ratio of whingers to those quietly getting on with lockdown and vaccination, showed the establishment campaign is a reality. Elements included privatising MIQ, ending restrictions on foreign students and migrant workers, opening up free in and outflow of capital, and generally business as usual. The bad news for this lot is some people will not resume eating out, shows, sports or cinema for a long time yet.
In the end the NZ petit bourgeois sector with their well stocked pantrys, will get what they think they want, but at what cost? Owner operators, SMEs and corporates who espouse the superiority of the market were quick to put their hands out for State assistance. The Govt. bent over to appease them with wage subsidies and even a second tier unemployment benefit!
A lot of people are going to pay for this bullying of the Govt.–including those with non COVID healthcare and social needs.
For at least 20 years the CCP has deeply subsidised industries with incredibly damaging results across the rest of the democratic world, hurting workers and the middle classes.
As a small example – here in Australia the company I was working for found that it could buy steel skid frames (about 400kg of laser cut, drilled, fabricated and painted framework as equipment bases) delivered from China – cheaper than buying the raw steel locally. There was no way this was possible unless the Chinese govt was deeply subsidising their own industry. This story has been repeated millions of time across the developed world this past few decades and finally someone is saying enough.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai lays out the Biden-Harris Administration's policy approach to US-China trade relations this speech. The language is measured as you might expect – the implications are wide ranging:
"The core of our strategy is to ensure that we work with our allies to create fair and open markets."
Her use of the word "allies" is instructive and unhelpful. Trade partners are not allies; they are simply entities who agree to rules to trade by. "Allies" conflates security with trade interests.
Trade Representative Tai didn't mention either CPTPP or RCEP. China is a member of RCEP. Neither China nor the United States are members of CPTPP. Instead she focuses on the World Trade Organisation, and doesn't acknowledge that the US went out of its way to kill it over 4 years.
Both CPTPP and RCEP have strong things to say about intellectual property protection, tariffs, market access by category, and bunches of other good stuff.
It would be a strong diplomatic signal for international trade and for multilateralism generally if the US and China jointly signed up to these (albeit imperfect) agreements.
The key insight here is that Biden's experience under Obama in dealing with the PRC on trade issues clearly comes through. He's no longer interested in promises.
And her reference to ‘allies’ aligns with the idea that the US is now going to start defining it’s interests much more narrowly. AUKUS is probably a very good example of this – and of the more transactional nature of these alliances.
The US can neither afford, nor is all that interested in, providing a security umbrella more or less for free. And sooner or later NZ is going to find this out. Of course all the anti-US types here will delight in this prospect – but will remain silent on the alternative.
Trade agreements aren't generally tied to security agreements and nor should they be.
New Zealand's only useful contribution to Trade Representative Tai is to do what we have successfully done before, which is to build mechanisms that enable countries and companies to make good and fair money. We've done that very well over 20 years.
Once countries consistently conflate trade agreements with security agreements by selling huge new arms technologies to opponents, all they do is militarise trade. You yourself have pointed out many times that China has every economic reason not to go to war in any form.
US war materiel is over-priced. I’ve sometimes wondered if we can’t get F16s, what the Russians might have on offer. I believe they still build their hi-performance warplanes as solid & dependable as brick shithouses.
The F16 Lease Deal brokered by Bill Clinton & Jenny Shipley in the late 90’s, was a very good deal, as the 28 F16’s had very low hrs on the clock with highest of F16’s was about 7hrs. Funding had already been set aside by then National Government & the RNZAF of between $250m & $350m NZD for Kahu 2 which was the planned A4 upgrade, but the money was then transferred to up grading the F16’s once they had been bedded in 75SQN & 2SQN’s respectively.
My Uncle who was the FSGT & acting. WOE in the RNZAF Ohakea at Base SQN Avionics, was heavily involved with the Kahu 2 Project which became the F16 Project & the later when the F16 Project got canned the Macchic Project until the bloody Greens jump up & down demanding that 14SQN got disbanded as well.
The Russian Aircraft aka the Su27- 30’s & Mig 29’s were actually studied by the RNZAF, but were dropped for a number of reasons when talked to Malaysia AF who operate the Mig29, TNIAF operating the Su27’s, the Indian AF who doing some crazy stuff on their Su30’s and the both the Luftwaffe & Poles as well.
1, Was the very poor after sales service from Russia,
2, The time it took to translate the various manuals & training the Tech’s
3, the mean time between technical failures & engine overhauls was very very low compared to their contemporaries with Western built Aircraft.
4, the small numbers of Aircraft being used the RNZAF was another issue, the RNZAF would’nt been unable to tap in the NATO Stores System if it was operating alongside Oz, the Poms, Canada or other like minded nations.
If NZ did decide to get back into the Fast Jet game ie Maritime Strike/ Interdiction
My pick would either be the Super Hornet similar to the RAAF ones, or failing that
The French Dassault Rafale B F3-R Two Seater
SAAB Gripen or this wee hot ship from
Sth Korea https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/KAI_T-50_Golden_Eagle.
Eventually the NZG will have to go down the UAV route at some stage if it wants to get the full use out of its for P8’s and whatever 2nd Tier Maritime Patrol Aircraft it choses under the 2018 DCP which both have to be Networked in with the Navy.
There are some major technical, including Security (both Active& Passive measures) issues to operating a UAV in NZ given the huge area that both the NZ Navy & RNZAF are likely to Patrol & operate in NZ before we even discuss the Moral & Ethical reasons to operate UAV’s.
I agree the US will probably only require NZ to continue to operate as the 'good citizen' it has in the past – but it doesn't take too much to imagine some other more subtle things they might ask of us.
And yes I agree that rationally Xi Xinping has no intention of going to war with the rest of the world – but if he continues his high stakes game of chicken over Taiwan, or elsewhere, events could easily run away from even his grasp.
PRC, as any country, has to deal with the global trade reality of blocs and agreements and “rules” organisations–which is in a bit of a mess when you tote them all up.
Various US producers were quick enough to move to China for cheaper production costs off the back of the Chinese working class, and still the free marketeers complain when China maximises its production strategies.
Essentially the US is complaining about a centrally planned economy, and it is rich indeed for the world centre of union busting (e.g. Amazon), and a poverty level federal minimum wage ($7.25 since 2009!) to criticise how workers are treated elsewhere.
and a poverty level federal minimum wage ($7.25 since 2009!) to criticise how workers are treated elsewhere.
Of course the actual story is more complex than this. And you might want to take a look at the data before painting the US as a poverty striken hell-hole. In reality it's a large diverse economy that defies simplistic characterisations.
Essentially the US is complaining about a centrally planned economy,
And yes – I gave an example above of precisely why this should be opposed. The Chinese workers who made those steel frames were not necessarily low paid – but that the companies involved in the supply chain could access unlimited state subsidies by various means to cover the fact that they were selling their product at a loss.
In essence this policy was a zero sum game that transferred jobs from one country to another – which is how China became the 'workshop of the world'. And then you wonder where the decent working class jobs in our part of the world went to.
As for the 'China bashing' – you may want to note the ethnicity of the person making the speech. Fail.
Also to note New Zealand is currently sending a frigate and an Orion to participate in Operation Bersama Gold 21, which is a big operation between the navies of Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, Malaysia and Singapore. Looks to be quite a big exercise.
It should actually read Ex Bersama Gold not Op Bersama Gold as there is no 2 Way Range. Ex Bersama Gold is the Annual 5 Power Defence Ex which has combined Ex Spearfish & Ex Vanguard together which were from memory 1-2 mth long Ex’s. The Yanks are not involved with 5 FPDA Ex, as it’s an all Commonwealth of Nations Affair & there has been talk of involving India over the last few yrs..
Delta beat the lockdown policy and the vaccines. It's endemic and you need to face up to the reality that like say the common cold or flu – we're all going to catch it sooner or later.
This speech faces this truth square on – regardless of who was saying it.
Delta did not beat the lockdown. It was those who wanted 'Freedom' (from what?), the conspiracy theorists and God Squaders along with the screamers of 'I want to make a profit' and the "I want to come home' moaners that have compromised the lockdown.
We should all now be ready to hear from those who can't come back to NZ for funerals or whose surgery is endlessly postponed, to start kicking up a ruckus?
Long term Pfizer (BNT162b2) immunity is better against hospitalisation (figure B) in California against SARS-CoV-2 delta variant (now it's been around long enough to tell, at least for 16+ age groups) than infection (figure A). Which suggests that boosters may come more in the form of natural infections, than yearly vaccines.
Effectiveness of BNT162b2 against infections caused by the delta variant, which became the predominant strain in KPSC {the health-care organisation Kaiser Permanente Southern California} by July, 2021, was 75% (95% CI 71–78) over the study period. Effectiveness against delta infections at 1 month after being fully vaccinated was high at 93% (85–97) but fell to 53% (39–65) up to 5 months after being fully vaccinated. Effectiveness against other (non-delta) variants within 1 month of being fully vaccinated was also high at 97% (95–99) and also waned, to 67% (45–80) up to 5 months after being fully vaccinated. Effectiveness against delta-related hospital admissions over the entire study period was high, at 93% (84–96) and was similar to effectiveness against hospital admissions for other (non-delta) variants.
I still haven't got the knack of posting images though! The second graph displays fine on mobile, but half of July is cut-off on laptop. The buttons where gone when I tried to edit and strange tech gibberish in its place (which I didn't dare touch).
This is also an interesting read on the Lancet (endemic coronaviruses = common colds; SARS-CoV = SARS) :
Reinfection by SARS-CoV-2 under endemic conditions would likely occur between 3 months and 5·1 years after peak antibody response, with a median of 16 months. This protection is less than half the duration revealed for the endemic coronaviruses circulating among humans (5–95% quantiles 15 months to 10 years for HCoV-OC43, 31 months to 12 years for HCoV-NL63, and 16 months to 12 years for HCoV-229E). For SARS-CoV, the 5–95% quantiles were 4 months to 6 years
I called the cops yesterday to do a welfare check on a young women (natal women) who got 'man' handled in front of our shops. – I don't think i ever felt more like a true Karen ever. But what is one to do when that shit happens, and fwiw, it is escalating in our fair wee town.
I did get a call from an officer later that day – rehashing the events that let to my call, and i did precise that i called for a 'welfare' check, essentially for both of them, the young women and the young bloke, as both were obviously not able to resolve what was going on without violence. Also that the guy bought booze at opening time of the booze shop.
So here we are, we have lost 4 women to violence in the last month. And yet, i still feel stink about calling the police. And i truly hope, that the young women has someone in her life that will tell her that getting the bash is not a sign of how he loves you, but rather is a sign of how he believes he ownes her and she is his to do as he likes, as i hope that the young bloke (natal) has a person in his life that will help him overcome what ever led him to bash his girlfriend in front of our shops.
I would have done the same and I did so earlier in the year as a male was explosive toward a female outside my home. More than one person reported it. I always shudder to think what goes on behind closed doors. Intervention is required and ongoing support. The shortage of affordable housing contributes to not having somewhere to be safe.
"Ardern’s perpetual struggle is transforming her care and compassion into public policy. Thus, the contradiction where she thrives in a crisis yet falters in its aftermath … the prime minister’s personal care and compassion do not always align with her public policy decisions."
But then – the young, brown, medically-compromised and disabled are not Ardern’s targeted voters.
A contrast of her gift of inspiring people when a political response aligns with her personal values, and her political work that is centrist at its core. She'll need her gift to regain that political capital she's just spent on changing tack, because Collins and Seymour don't even have to change their Covid policy to gain disenchanted who left National last election for the promises of Ardern – Labour has come to National/ACT (granted, ACT policy is a bit more blatant about everybody for themselves). They just have to convince people they can do Covid better and the opening is now there.
There are big questions for the Left that believes in social cohesion and equity.
The biggest danger is the buy-in of Nat/Act attitudes in Media and the business forum. The promotion of stories which point up every bump in the road, the wailing about MIQ, returnees and low rent supports and costs in general. Saying changing to the next step is a sign of failure, just generally white anting the elimination strategy. The stories about money for Gangs, Covid in the gangs. Certain Suburbs, so it goes.
It wasn't the entitled couple who flew south, it was not the Lawyer who went to the races over the border, it was not the entitled who spread covid, no no it was the poor.
Well wow!! What part of ghettoizing people is still not understood? If you live in large airy well ventilated warm housing with a full pantry reliable internet and respect from all health and other services… you live in a world of plenty with your expectations the Government will smooth any difficulties that you can't deal with then you conform to social norms generally, unless you are one of the spoiled entitled.!!
If you live in a crowded neighbourhood with older smaller homes without central kitchens food in the pantry money in the bank, poor transport, poor health with co-morbidities, and you are not trusted by a large section of the community because… you are poor, surly through past experiences, hungry, full of mis-information reinforced by facebook or in the certain religions/black economy/ gang communities , with bad experiences when you turn to "Social services", generally non-conforming to social norms.
How do we change that? Definitely NOT by austerity programmes. We have to practice inclusivity. If people opt out we separate them for special intensive assistance, as they have a social disorder.
We continue to increase education initiatives and investment, we increase health home visits and investment. We provide to mothers a suitable sum on the birth of a child to help with expenses universally. We listen to what communities want more actively and create a Welfare Ombudsperson.
We don't fall for PR letters and speeches written by vested interests… when did they work in the community? rather manipulating the view to a politically skewed window?
However, we have a PM who said the most important part of our Covid-19 response was health and that they were following the science.
Now, we know have some of those same scientists worried, disappointed and hoping for a bit of good luck to see us through this.
"If you live in a crowded neighbourhood with older smaller homes without central kitchens food in the pantry money in the bank, poor transport, poor health with co-morbidities, and you are not trusted by a large section of the community because…"
These are the people who are likely to be most severely impacts by this approach that includes crossed fingers and hope.
Moreover, we have a new health system on the way – why oh why did the government not recognise the spirit of the new system and (visibly?) bring in Māori to share the decision-making at the highest level around this response?
Barfly, your comment has really made me stop and consider. It’s not an “I reckon” or a political salvo, a sermon or a serve.
Rather, to me it is a true use of the word 'need'. Instead of reading someone opining "They need", I have read that someone said "I need" and acted upon that realisation. Thanks.
Bloody Brilliant.!! We know the struggle you faced. Our son faces that as well. Well done Barfly. I know you have other health issues, but that is a huge win. Made my day.. Suggest new monica Flying Free
That mallard hen knows where she's going, weka. Around the back of the buildings a little way further ahead of her there's a brook, one of several, that feeds, via a very large under-the-township culvert, straight into my stream.
The media have never liked strong, powerful woman.
They always try to bring them down but I'm confident that, like the Phoenix, JC will rise from the ashes and attain her rightful place as the Queen of Hearts.
Sorry about that freudian slip, I mean as the Prime Minister.
All this talk of female empowerment and getting more females (sorry is that the correct term or should I say person who chest feeds) into politics but as soon as a person with XX chromosomes joins the "wrong" party its pitchforks and torches time
one of my customer is anti mask and anti vax, she is also african / american.
So anyways, we get to talk about things, and end up talking masks. I ask her why she did not wear them, and she said she did not see the point. Then she asked me why i wore mine. lol….I said, its simple really, i am vaccinated and thus might become a carrier of the virus but stay a-symptomatic not even a sniffle, thus risking the spread of the virus unknowingly. So i told her, that is why you should wear a mask, to protect yourself from someone like me.
Today she came to the shop wearing a N95 mask. Good girl. Good girl.
That is one thing us vaccinated people really must understand that we might become unwitting carriers. So testing is essential, which is why i hope that saliva tests will become a standard household item. My partner goes to test once every week and is considering doing it twice. His territory that he looks after is large, very large. He could potentially infect the lower half of the north island in a busy day. And he is an essential worker. As for myself, the shop is not open to anyone, its no contact pickup and will be for a long time coming.
I like this customer, she is a lovely lady and due to her own particular trauma as an african american women she has her own reasons to worry about this particular vaccine. But i am happy to see her now in a Mask everytime she is outside, rather then only wearing a flimsy cloth masks when in her office and nothing when out and about.
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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 ...
Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
“You talking about me?”The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
Roger Partridge writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
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. ...
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. ...
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. ...
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. ...
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. ...
The Government’s newly announced review of methane emissions reduction targets hints at its desire to delay Aotearoa New Zealand’s urgent transition to a climate safe future, the Green Party said. ...
The Government must commit to the Maitai School building project for students with high and complex needs, to ensure disabled students from the top of the South Island have somewhere to learn. ...
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 ...
Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector. "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
“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 ...
A poem by Wellington writer Tayi Tibble.Hoki Mai She kisses him goodbye with her eyes still wet and alight from their last swim in the Awatere river. At the train station celebration, she leads the Kapa Haka but her voice keeps breaking under and over itself like waves. ...
A poem from Bill Manhire’s 2017 book of verse Some Things to Place in a Coffin.My World War I Poem Inside each trench, the sound of prayer. Inside each prayer, the sound of digging. Image courtesy of Auckland War Memorial Museum. ...
There are three books I have wolfed down in one sitting over the last two years. Colleen Maria Lenihan’s gorgeous and sad debut Kōhine, Noelle McCarthy’s memoir Grand about becoming her mother and then unbecoming her, and now Hine Toa, a staunch yet gentle self-portrait by living legend Ngāhuia te ...
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Asia Pacific Report Students and activist staff at Australia’s University of Sydney (USyd) have set up a Gaza solidarity encampment in support of Palestinians and similar student-led protests in the United States. The camp was pitched as mass graves, crippled hospitals, thousands of civilian deaths and the near-total destruction of ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James B. Dorey, Lecturer in Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong Australian teddy bear bees are cute and fluffy, but get a look at that massive (unbarbed) stinger! James Dorey Photography Most of us have been stung by a bee and we ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jen Roberts, Senior Lecturer, School of Humanities and Social Inquiry, University of Wollongong Aussie~mobs/FlickrVictor Farr, a private in the 1st Infantry Battalion, was among the first to land at Anzac Cove just before dawn on April 25 1915. Victor Farr ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne Gregory Moore I had the good fortune to care for the sugar gum at The University of Melbourne’s Burnley Gardens in Victoria where I worked for ...
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. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Ong ViforJ, ARC Future Fellow & Professor of Economics, Curtin University Just when we think the price of rentals could not get any worse, this week’s Rental Affordability Snapshot by Anglicare has revealed low-income Australians are facing a housing crisis like ...
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 ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tracey Holmes, Professorial Fellow in Sport, University of Canberra When the news broke last weekend that 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive to a banned drug in early 2021 and were allowed to compete at the Tokyo Olympic Games six months later ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cally Jetta, Senior Lecturer and Academic Lead; College for First Nations, University of Southern Queensland Australian War MemorialAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains names and images of deceased people, as well as sensitive historical information ...
RNZ News Melissa Lee has been ousted from New Zealand’s coalition cabinet and stripped of the Media portfolio, and Penny Simmonds has lost the Disability Issues portfolio in a reshuffle. Climate Change and Revenue Minister Simon Watts will take Lee’s spot in cabinet. Simmonds was a minister outside of cabinet. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Lindenmayer, Professor, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University laurello/Shutterstock Some reports and popular books, such as Bill Gammage’s Biggest Estate on Earth, have argued that extensive areas of Australia’s forests were kept open through frequent burning by ...
Analysis - Christopher Luxon framing the demotion of two ministers as the portfolios getting "too complex" is a charitable way of saying they weren't up to the job. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra With Jim Chalmers’s third budget on May 14, Australians will be looking for some more cost-of-living relief – beyond the tax cuts – although they have been warned extra measures will be modest. As ...
Analysis: Melissa Lee has lost the media portfolio and her spot in Cabinet after multiple failed attempts to find solutions for a media industry in crisis. On Wednesday, the Prime Minister announced Lee would be losing her spot in Cabinet along with her media and communications ministerial portfolio. The job ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Wilmot, Senior Lecturer, Film, Deakin University Among the many Australian who served during the second world war, there is a small group of people whose stories remain largely untold. These are the Muslim men and women who, while small in number, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Saunders, PhD Candidate, University of Canberra There has been much analysis and praise of Justice Michael Lee’s recent judgement in Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation case against Channel Ten. Many people were openly relieved to read Lee’s “forensic” and “nuanced” application of law ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathy Gibbs, Program Director for the Bachelor of Education, Griffith University zEdward_Indy/Shutterstock Around one in 20 people has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and often continues into adulthood. ADHD is diagnosed ...
The Fairer Future coalition of anti-poverty groups say Whaikaha must be properly funded going forward, and that to argue that poor financial management of the new Ministry is a red herring by the Prime Minister. ...
The Taxpayers’ Union is today congratulating Hon. Paul Goldsmith on his appointment as Minister for Media and Communications and urges him to rule out state intervention in the private media sector. ...
Asia Pacific Report The West Papuan resistance OPM leader has condemned Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Joe Biden, accusing their countries of “six decades of treachery” over Papuan independence. The open letter was released today by OPM chairman Jeffrey P Bomanak on the eve of ANZAC Day ...
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One of my favourites, mary.
Boss Tui breakfasts on sugar water at Gezza's Cafe
https://i.imgur.com/f6Gg5j5.gif
He lets me get so close, it feels like a real privilege.
Tui trolling the cat with that bowl 😈
🙊 Tee hee. I wondered if anyone would notice that. 🙂
Boss Tui is the one who attacked the pūkeko who was stealing his sugar water.
Wouldn’t be surprised if he dive-bombed any cat on my property. 👷🏼
Nice
Your Tui is one magnificent bird. You have quite an amazing menagerie of wildlife where you are Gezza. Thanks again for sharing.
"Trusted, impartial and independent? Or largely unaccountable and part of the Establishment? Sociologist Tom Mills considers the evidence on the enormously influential British Broadcasting Corporation or BBC."
A very interesting interview which goes a long way to explaining some of the very biased reporting from the BBC through some good old fashioned historical analysis…
https://kpfa.org/episode/against-the-grain-september-1-2021/
The BBC has soiled its reputation so many times–Iraq WMD, Tony Blair, Russia, China, Mid East, Wikileaks etc. etc. it is amazing anyone takes it seriously as an accurate news source.
The Beeb has an old school tory class based internal culture (with a fair share of pervs of various persuasions).
I watch some BBC dramas, nicely produced usually–for a change from Netflix–but they too can have a sting–like submarine based whodunnit “Vigil” which has an interesting subtext supporting US and British Imperialism!
Yep the BBC has got plenty of good points (like The Guardian) which is what makes them so dangerous (politically) I guess.
I remember my father telling me that the BBC did not report anti-nuclear testing activity by NZ against France in the Pacific….at a time the UK was hoping to join the EC and didn't want to offend the French (1970s)!
BBC corruption is nothing new.
I loathe the gangs. But I think this was probably a good thing to try. Will be interesting to see if it prompts any Auckland Mongrel Mob members to front up for Covid vaccinations.
predictable knee jerk reaction from National. The answer's already in the news article. As many incentives as possible should be tried to get vax rates up as high as possible.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-mongrel-mob-boss-granted-essential-worker-exemption-to-come-to-auckland/BJZJRLGN3GQHAXOCMD5EB7INTE/
During my recent, admittedly brief, interaction with the Mongrel Mob, or the 'Kingdom' as they refer to themselves as.
What struck me most forcefully about the Mongrel Mob, was their poverty.
They say power corrupts. Well so does poverty.
My respect to Sonny Fatupaito for attempting to lift his people out of their degradation.
I heard him give a talk about the rise of P in the Waikato, which he claimed to have been against. Resorting to vigilante justice against the dealers. For which he was jailed. He said that when he was in prison many of younger 'Kingdom' members became P dealers.
Sonny Fatupaito recounted, that one day when he wasn't expecting any visitors he was called from his cell because there were visitors who wanted to see him.
As he told it, the visitors were senior Waikato police officers who told him we may have made a mistake.
"They say power corrupts. Well so does poverty."
A question – are people in gangs because of poverty, or they in poverty because of the gangs?
Both? That said, one of the major reasons to join a gang is loss of hope in a prospect's future, and poverty plays a big part in that loss of hope.
True that.
That's two questions – yes to both, I reckon.
Wealth, power, inequality and poverty can all contribute to the breeding grounds for corruption and other antisocial behaviours, that's for sure.
There are exceptions, but it seems to me that most people with wealth and power don't really want society to change for the better, as they don't perceive that change to be in their own best interests, at least in the short-to-medium term. And who wants to think any further ahead these days?
If one aspires to extreme wealth then go for it – whatever floats your yacht. But it seems so pointless and short-sighted – an ‘own goal’ even.
Thanks Drowsy, a thoughtful response.
I think the ever so slight loosening of restrictions is in recognition that at about 50% people need encouragement and hope that things are on the move and that contacts would become more surreptitious anyway. This is no way a” giving up” otherwise even at 95% the whining arseholes would be saying the Government was giving up the elimination strategy.
“Open up and let it rip” has been a relentless campaign in the media channels, which broke cover perhaps when sirkey was wheeled out. Brian Tamaki to some extent did what Judith Collins would liked NZ National to have done!
The sheer ratio of whingers to those quietly getting on with lockdown and vaccination, showed the establishment campaign is a reality. Elements included privatising MIQ, ending restrictions on foreign students and migrant workers, opening up free in and outflow of capital, and generally business as usual. The bad news for this lot is some people will not resume eating out, shows, sports or cinema for a long time yet.
In the end the NZ petit bourgeois sector with their well stocked pantrys, will get what they think they want, but at what cost? Owner operators, SMEs and corporates who espouse the superiority of the market were quick to put their hands out for State assistance. The Govt. bent over to appease them with wage subsidies and even a second tier unemployment benefit!
A lot of people are going to pay for this bullying of the Govt.–including those with non COVID healthcare and social needs.
Hell pizza always seem to 'push the envelope' when it comes to advertising and marketing. This is a bold move.
How dare they! 'Greta Thunberg can go to Hell' – Kiwi company's message to environmentalist – NZ Herald
Yeah – I saw that yesterday. Had a smile on my dial as I idly wondered whether Greta would get to hear of it & know what it was really all about. 😎
For at least 20 years the CCP has deeply subsidised industries with incredibly damaging results across the rest of the democratic world, hurting workers and the middle classes.
As a small example – here in Australia the company I was working for found that it could buy steel skid frames (about 400kg of laser cut, drilled, fabricated and painted framework as equipment bases) delivered from China – cheaper than buying the raw steel locally. There was no way this was possible unless the Chinese govt was deeply subsidising their own industry. This story has been repeated millions of time across the developed world this past few decades and finally someone is saying enough.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai lays out the Biden-Harris Administration's policy approach to US-China trade relations this speech. The language is measured as you might expect – the implications are wide ranging:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBugxVfxpDA
"The core of our strategy is to ensure that we work with our allies to create fair and open markets."
Her use of the word "allies" is instructive and unhelpful. Trade partners are not allies; they are simply entities who agree to rules to trade by. "Allies" conflates security with trade interests.
Trade Representative Tai didn't mention either CPTPP or RCEP. China is a member of RCEP. Neither China nor the United States are members of CPTPP. Instead she focuses on the World Trade Organisation, and doesn't acknowledge that the US went out of its way to kill it over 4 years.
Both CPTPP and RCEP have strong things to say about intellectual property protection, tariffs, market access by category, and bunches of other good stuff.
It would be a strong diplomatic signal for international trade and for multilateralism generally if the US and China jointly signed up to these (albeit imperfect) agreements.
https://www.nber.org/papers/w26877
Signatories to those agreements should call for the strengthening of multilateral trade law that this would achieve.
The key insight here is that Biden's experience under Obama in dealing with the PRC on trade issues clearly comes through. He's no longer interested in promises.
And her reference to ‘allies’ aligns with the idea that the US is now going to start defining it’s interests much more narrowly. AUKUS is probably a very good example of this – and of the more transactional nature of these alliances.
The US can neither afford, nor is all that interested in, providing a security umbrella more or less for free. And sooner or later NZ is going to find this out. Of course all the anti-US types here will delight in this prospect – but will remain silent on the alternative.
Trade agreements aren't generally tied to security agreements and nor should they be.
New Zealand's only useful contribution to Trade Representative Tai is to do what we have successfully done before, which is to build mechanisms that enable countries and companies to make good and fair money. We've done that very well over 20 years.
Once countries consistently conflate trade agreements with security agreements by selling huge new arms technologies to opponents, all they do is militarise trade. You yourself have pointed out many times that China has every economic reason not to go to war in any form.
US war materiel is over-priced. I’ve sometimes wondered if we can’t get F16s, what the Russians might have on offer. I believe they still build their hi-performance warplanes as solid & dependable as brick shithouses.
The F16 Lease Deal brokered by Bill Clinton & Jenny Shipley in the late 90’s, was a very good deal, as the 28 F16’s had very low hrs on the clock with highest of F16’s was about 7hrs. Funding had already been set aside by then National Government & the RNZAF of between $250m & $350m NZD for Kahu 2 which was the planned A4 upgrade, but the money was then transferred to up grading the F16’s once they had been bedded in 75SQN & 2SQN’s respectively.
My Uncle who was the FSGT & acting. WOE in the RNZAF Ohakea at Base SQN Avionics, was heavily involved with the Kahu 2 Project which became the F16 Project & the later when the F16 Project got canned the Macchic Project until the bloody Greens jump up & down demanding that 14SQN got disbanded as well.
The Russian Aircraft aka the Su27- 30’s & Mig 29’s were actually studied by the RNZAF, but were dropped for a number of reasons when talked to Malaysia AF who operate the Mig29, TNIAF operating the Su27’s, the Indian AF who doing some crazy stuff on their Su30’s and the both the Luftwaffe & Poles as well.
1, Was the very poor after sales service from Russia,
2, The time it took to translate the various manuals & training the Tech’s
3, the mean time between technical failures & engine overhauls was very very low compared to their contemporaries with Western built Aircraft.
4, the small numbers of Aircraft being used the RNZAF was another issue, the RNZAF would’nt been unable to tap in the NATO Stores System if it was operating alongside Oz, the Poms, Canada or other like minded nations.
👍🏼 Thanks for that Scud.
Very informative. I’d forgotten Clinton offered a sweet deal on the F-16s.
If NZ did decide to get back into the Fast Jet game ie Maritime Strike/ Interdiction
My pick would either be the Super Hornet similar to the RAAF ones, or failing that
The French Dassault Rafale B F3-R Two Seater
SAAB Gripen or this wee hot ship from
Sth Korea https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/KAI_T-50_Golden_Eagle.
Eventually the NZG will have to go down the UAV route at some stage if it wants to get the full use out of its for P8’s and whatever 2nd Tier Maritime Patrol Aircraft it choses under the 2018 DCP which both have to be Networked in with the Navy.
There are some major technical, including Security (both Active& Passive measures) issues to operating a UAV in NZ given the huge area that both the NZ Navy & RNZAF are likely to Patrol & operate in NZ before we even discuss the Moral & Ethical reasons to operate UAV’s.
I agree the US will probably only require NZ to continue to operate as the 'good citizen' it has in the past – but it doesn't take too much to imagine some other more subtle things they might ask of us.
And yes I agree that rationally Xi Xinping has no intention of going to war with the rest of the world – but if he continues his high stakes game of chicken over Taiwan, or elsewhere, events could easily run away from even his grasp.
Another day, another China bash.
PRC, as any country, has to deal with the global trade reality of blocs and agreements and “rules” organisations–which is in a bit of a mess when you tote them all up.
Various US producers were quick enough to move to China for cheaper production costs off the back of the Chinese working class, and still the free marketeers complain when China maximises its production strategies.
Essentially the US is complaining about a centrally planned economy, and it is rich indeed for the world centre of union busting (e.g. Amazon), and a poverty level federal minimum wage ($7.25 since 2009!) to criticise how workers are treated elsewhere.
I thought you'd love it.
and a poverty level federal minimum wage ($7.25 since 2009!) to criticise how workers are treated elsewhere.
Of course the actual story is more complex than this. And you might want to take a look at the data before painting the US as a poverty striken hell-hole. In reality it's a large diverse economy that defies simplistic characterisations.
Essentially the US is complaining about a centrally planned economy,
And yes – I gave an example above of precisely why this should be opposed. The Chinese workers who made those steel frames were not necessarily low paid – but that the companies involved in the supply chain could access unlimited state subsidies by various means to cover the fact that they were selling their product at a loss.
In essence this policy was a zero sum game that transferred jobs from one country to another – which is how China became the 'workshop of the world'. And then you wonder where the decent working class jobs in our part of the world went to.
As for the 'China bashing' – you may want to note the ethnicity of the person making the speech. Fail.
Also to note New Zealand is currently sending a frigate and an Orion to participate in Operation Bersama Gold 21, which is a big operation between the navies of Australia, New Zealand, UK, US, Malaysia and Singapore. Looks to be quite a big exercise.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300423965/hmnzs-te-kaha-joins-uk-carrier-strike-group-in-south-china-sea
It should actually read Ex Bersama Gold not Op Bersama Gold as there is no 2 Way Range. Ex Bersama Gold is the Annual 5 Power Defence Ex which has combined Ex Spearfish & Ex Vanguard together which were from memory 1-2 mth long Ex’s. The Yanks are not involved with 5 FPDA Ex, as it’s an all Commonwealth of Nations Affair & there has been talk of involving India over the last few yrs..
Cheers Scud on point with the military detail as ever. A bit more detail here.
https://www.nzdf.mil.nz/nzdf/news/nzdf-exercises-with-international-counterparts-in-south-east-asia/
If anyone wonders why Act is rising so fast and so high, well, it's got something to do with David Seymour’s speechwriter:
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA2110/S00055/the-speech-ardern-should-have-given-yesterday.htm
Yup. That nails it.
Yeah, nail it to a coffin. That Act contribution is piffle – the virus doesn't comply with set dates.
Delta beat the lockdown policy and the vaccines. It's endemic and you need to face up to the reality that like say the common cold or flu – we're all going to catch it sooner or later.
This speech faces this truth square on – regardless of who was saying it.
Damn straight 💪🏼
Delta did not beat the lockdown. It was those who wanted 'Freedom' (from what?), the conspiracy theorists and God Squaders along with the screamers of 'I want to make a profit' and the "I want to come home' moaners that have compromised the lockdown.
We should all now be ready to hear from those who can't come back to NZ for funerals or whose surgery is endlessly postponed, to start kicking up a ruckus?
Simplistic nonsense – typical of the black and white mentality so prevalent among ACT supporters. I know this from personal and historical experience.
They are not able to see all the grey areas… or human intransigence together with a virus that is elusive and constantly changing direction.
God help us if they ever gain the treasury benches.
Elimination is not dead, it is merely a flesh wound!
On the money. Again. Never voted ACT, but it's getting tempting.
Long term Pfizer (BNT162b2) immunity is better against hospitalisation (figure B) in California against SARS-CoV-2 delta variant (now it's been around long enough to tell, at least for 16+ age groups) than infection (figure A). Which suggests that boosters may come more in the form of natural infections, than yearly vaccines.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(21)02183-8/fulltext
And this one is just neat for showing how Delta took over other variants:
Thanks FN that's a great summary. Hope that it convinces vaccine hesitant friends on Facebook.
Forget now Most informative Thank You.
I still haven't got the knack of posting images though! The second graph displays fine on mobile, but half of July is cut-off on laptop. The buttons where gone when I tried to edit and strange tech gibberish in its place (which I didn't dare touch).
This is also an interesting read on the Lancet (endemic coronaviruses = common colds; SARS-CoV = SARS) :
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanmic/article/PIIS2666-5247(21)00219-6/fulltext
On the Gibberish. I got the same when I tried to edit a comment to Barfly. It did not put the smiley up.. just the word! You do great from a phone.
I called the cops yesterday to do a welfare check on a young women (natal women) who got 'man' handled in front of our shops. – I don't think i ever felt more like a true Karen ever. But what is one to do when that shit happens, and fwiw, it is escalating in our fair wee town.
I did get a call from an officer later that day – rehashing the events that let to my call, and i did precise that i called for a 'welfare' check, essentially for both of them, the young women and the young bloke, as both were obviously not able to resolve what was going on without violence. Also that the guy bought booze at opening time of the booze shop.
So here we are, we have lost 4 women to violence in the last month. And yet, i still feel stink about calling the police. And i truly hope, that the young women has someone in her life that will tell her that getting the bash is not a sign of how he loves you, but rather is a sign of how he believes he ownes her and she is his to do as he likes, as i hope that the young bloke (natal) has a person in his life that will help him overcome what ever led him to bash his girlfriend in front of our shops.
Good bold step there Sabine. Never been in that situation myself.
And yet, i still feel stink about calling the police.
Understood – but it was still the least worst choice in that moment.
I would have done the same and I did so earlier in the year as a male was explosive toward a female outside my home. More than one person reported it. I always shudder to think what goes on behind closed doors. Intervention is required and ongoing support. The shortage of affordable housing contributes to not having somewhere to be safe.
Sometimes calling the cops has to be done. That stuff needs to be addressed quickly and unequivocally. Good job.
Morgan Godfery in The Guardian
"Ardern’s perpetual struggle is transforming her care and compassion into public policy. Thus, the contradiction where she thrives in a crisis yet falters in its aftermath … the prime minister’s personal care and compassion do not always align with her public policy decisions."
But then – the young, brown, medically-compromised and disabled are not Ardern’s targeted voters.
A contrast of her gift of inspiring people when a political response aligns with her personal values, and her political work that is centrist at its core. She'll need her gift to regain that political capital she's just spent on changing tack, because Collins and Seymour don't even have to change their Covid policy to gain disenchanted who left National last election for the promises of Ardern – Labour has come to National/ACT (granted, ACT policy is a bit more blatant about everybody for themselves). They just have to convince people they can do Covid better and the opening is now there.
There are big questions for the Left that believes in social cohesion and equity.
The biggest danger is the buy-in of Nat/Act attitudes in Media and the business forum. The promotion of stories which point up every bump in the road, the wailing about MIQ, returnees and low rent supports and costs in general. Saying changing to the next step is a sign of failure, just generally white anting the elimination strategy. The stories about money for Gangs, Covid in the gangs. Certain Suburbs, so it goes.
It wasn't the entitled couple who flew south, it was not the Lawyer who went to the races over the border, it was not the entitled who spread covid, no no it was the poor.
Well wow!! What part of ghettoizing people is still not understood? If you live in large airy well ventilated warm housing with a full pantry reliable internet and respect from all health and other services… you live in a world of plenty with your expectations the Government will smooth any difficulties that you can't deal with then you conform to social norms generally, unless you are one of the spoiled entitled.!!
If you live in a crowded neighbourhood with older smaller homes without central kitchens food in the pantry money in the bank, poor transport, poor health with co-morbidities, and you are not trusted by a large section of the community because… you are poor, surly through past experiences, hungry, full of mis-information reinforced by facebook or in the certain religions/black economy/ gang communities , with bad experiences when you turn to "Social services", generally non-conforming to social norms.
How do we change that? Definitely NOT by austerity programmes. We have to practice inclusivity. If people opt out we separate them for special intensive assistance, as they have a social disorder.
We continue to increase education initiatives and investment, we increase health home visits and investment. We provide to mothers a suitable sum on the birth of a child to help with expenses universally. We listen to what communities want more actively and create a Welfare Ombudsperson.
We don't fall for PR letters and speeches written by vested interests… when did they work in the community? rather manipulating the view to a politically skewed window?
All of what you say is true.
However, we have a PM who said the most important part of our Covid-19 response was health and that they were following the science.
Now, we know have some of those same scientists worried, disappointed and hoping for a bit of good luck to see us through this.
"If you live in a crowded neighbourhood with older smaller homes without central kitchens food in the pantry money in the bank, poor transport, poor health with co-morbidities, and you are not trusted by a large section of the community because…"
These are the people who are likely to be most severely impacts by this approach that includes crossed fingers and hope.
Moreover, we have a new health system on the way – why oh why did the government not recognise the spirit of the new system and (visibly?) bring in Māori to share the decision-making at the highest level around this response?
Thanks Patricia, best thing I've seen written on the Standard in a long time, appreciated!
At least she is trying.. Boris???
Well not that it's news or an opinion or a discussion point but congratulations to me one year without alcohol today.
Well done! Time for a pseudonym change? 🙂
New handle suggestion: FreedomDay
Respect.
well done 😎
Barfly, your comment has really made me stop and consider. It’s not an “I reckon” or a political salvo, a sermon or a serve.
Rather, to me it is a true use of the word 'need'. Instead of reading someone opining "They need", I have read that someone said "I need" and acted upon that realisation. Thanks.
Well done!
Bloody Brilliant.!! We know the struggle you faced. Our son faces that as well. Well done Barfly. I know you have other health issues, but that is a huge win. Made my day.. Suggest new monica Flying Free
Congratulations, indeed. Well done!
I am now thee years – its great as it only gets better. Good on you.
Well done! You deserve a drink to celebrate a great achievement.
Jimmy that is not reflecting well.Thoughtless or cruel.
It was obviously sarcasm. I'll have a drink for him tonight.
onya
Good stuff,Freedom day.
Happy anniversary.
Congratulations for sure!
Have I missed anything?
Only this, at my Chemist's yesterday:
https://i.imgur.com/DN0gVoy.gif
I like your posts, best things on here
love how she stops on the other side of the car park and they all congregate towards her and wait.
That mallard hen knows where she's going, weka. Around the back of the buildings a little way further ahead of her there's a brook, one of several, that feeds, via a very large under-the-township culvert, straight into my stream.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/452419/judith-collins-sinks-below-david-seymour-as-preferred-pm
Well, you did ask 😇
Welcome back PR.
The media have never liked strong, powerful woman.
They always try to bring them down but I'm confident that, like the Phoenix, JC will rise from the ashes and attain her rightful place as the Queen of Hearts.
Sorry about that freudian slip, I mean as the Prime Minister.
Chloe before Collins
is that Nat/JC's smiley icon?
Other options: 🤡 🃏
😀
Typical.
All this talk of female empowerment and getting more females (sorry is that the correct term or should I say person who chest feeds) into politics but as soon as a person with XX chromosomes joins the "wrong" party its pitchforks and torches time
Poor Jude
Part of Judith’s problem is that most of “The Girls” (who seem to make up most of the Press Gallery journo pack these daze) just don’t like her.
Thats true
She has asked for her Christmas present. "Lock down must be over by Christmas"…… Should have been "Vaccinated ready for Christmas"
Shes not wrong
Despite what the MSM tell us, it’s not just Brian Tamaki.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/pou-tiaki/300423371/destiny-church-isnt-the-only-problem-what-about-the-white-megachurches
I dunno. The brethren get shit whenever they get caught dabbling in politics.
Maybe we have some megachurches running covid rallies that I've not noticed?
Not sure about rallies but certainly misinformation & discouraging vaccines & lockdowns from their pulpits. Webworm has put up a story
Surprise… the world did not end:
Small Business cope with minimum Wage increase
and, not surprisingly, employees are happier.
please fix username on next comment 🙂
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/national-mp-mark-mitchell-not-standing-for-auckland-mayoralty/2H376ZQG5AW3W5KYTMFK6YJTUM/
He must fancy his chances come coup time.
really.. the plots thicken!!
Not an unreasonable deduction there, imo.
Mitchell, as my late ma would say, has got tickets on himself. 😐
With his back story?
This name may be implying more of a sense of panic than Labour really wants to present for the planned event on the 16th of October!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Super_Saturday
This reminds me of the debate we are having here right now..
😄
RBNZ moves to innoculate those with FOMA 21
https://www.reuters.com/article/newzealand-economy-rbnz/new-zealand-central-bank-hikes-interest-rate-to-0-50-idUSW9N2OR01A
Appeared to be 100% mask/distancing/recording compliance in the main street of Whanganui this AM.
Meanwhile….
https://twitter.com/Te_Taipo/status/1445531030002176001
one of my customer is anti mask and anti vax, she is also african / american.
So anyways, we get to talk about things, and end up talking masks. I ask her why she did not wear them, and she said she did not see the point. Then she asked me why i wore mine. lol….I said, its simple really, i am vaccinated and thus might become a carrier of the virus but stay a-symptomatic not even a sniffle, thus risking the spread of the virus unknowingly. So i told her, that is why you should wear a mask, to protect yourself from someone like me.
Today she came to the shop wearing a N95 mask. Good girl. Good girl.
Good for you Sabine
Good psychology too.
It is true though.
That is one thing us vaccinated people really must understand that we might become unwitting carriers. So testing is essential, which is why i hope that saliva tests will become a standard household item. My partner goes to test once every week and is considering doing it twice. His territory that he looks after is large, very large. He could potentially infect the lower half of the north island in a busy day. And he is an essential worker. As for myself, the shop is not open to anyone, its no contact pickup and will be for a long time coming.
I like this customer, she is a lovely lady and due to her own particular trauma as an african american women she has her own reasons to worry about this particular vaccine. But i am happy to see her now in a Mask everytime she is outside, rather then only wearing a flimsy cloth masks when in her office and nothing when out and about.
Did the most recent Roy Morgan get much MSM time?