Open Mike 07/03/2018
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6:00 am, March 7th, 2018 - 89 comments
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- Climate Change: Wasting our time again
For the past two weeks delegates were meeting at the UN climate change talks in Madrid. The meeting finally ended, having achieved... nothing. The IPCC has made it clear that we need to halve emissions by 2030 if we are to avoid making the planet uninhabitable, so countries needed to ...1 hour ago - From sewing machinist to software programmer
Amelia Sharman I’m sure you’ve heard some version of this popular prediction – about two-thirds of children entering primary school today will end up working in jobs that don’t exist yet.1 This prediction assumes rapid or accelerating technological change. But looking at historical trends and current data, rates of technological ...2 hours ago - Some fluoride-IQ researchers seem to be taking in each other’s laundry
Image credit: Publish Peer Reviews. Illustration by David Parkins Scientific peer-review is often touted as a guarantee of the quality of published research. But how good is peer-review? Does it guarantee poor ... 19 hours ago- Spread the Word
If you like any article please help promote it (and the blog). Link to it on facebook and other social media, write about it anywhere or re-blog it. We’re very happy to have other people re-blog our material, all we ask is that you mention the original source and put ...2 days ago- Pronouns etc
by The Council of Disobedient Women John Fenaughty is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland. In a recent column Fenaughty suggested that school teachers should use students’ “correct names and pronouns (e.g., he, him, they, them, she, her, etc.)” ...2 days ago- “People’s Faces” by Kate Tempest
Heard this on Radio NZ this afternoon. Perfectly captures how I'm feeling just now.It's always good to find new music, though it would be nice to be hearing something celebratory. Even "Things Can Only Get Better" would be welcome, if it was accompanied by a thumping Labour victory. ...2 days ago- A reflection on the British general election
by Don Franks Like New Zealand, Britain is officially a country of equal opportunity under the rule of law, with increasing hardship for those at the bottom. When there’s an election, and the party most obviously callous towards poor people wins, decent folks are dismayed and bewildered. “What the hell ...2 days ago- Well, crap
UKanians went to the polls yesterday in early elections aimed at resolving the Brexit impasse. And they certainly have, delivering a huge majority to the Tories, and (barring internal rebellions of the sort which delayed Brexit) giving them the power to do whatever they want. And thanks to the UK's ...2 days ago- Austerity meets fresh resistance in Iran
by Karim Pourhamzavi Mass protests are occurring across Iran, taking place in over 100 cities. The protests have been sparked by the government’s cutting of fuel subsidies, a measure which caused fuel prices to double overnight. Mass protests are hardly new in Iran, but there is an important difference ...3 days ago- Oh No! It’s a …..
What other song could we play as the UK's political rule book gets torn up and thrown away?Video courtesy of YouTubeThis post is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...3 days ago- Election 2019 – The Legendary Liveblog
Legendary in my own mind, I mean. All times are NZ, which is an hour10.00am (NZ) There's about an hour to go until the exit poll is released. At that point, half of the British voting public will devastated, and the other half celebrating wildly. Unless everyone is simply confused.Turnout seems ...3 days ago- Some Thoughts On Socialism As Jeremy Corbyn Loses The UK General Election.
Forlorn Hope: When the call came down to make Corbyn unelectable, the Establishment's journalists and columnists rose to the challenge. Antisemitism was only the most imaginative of the charges levelled against the old democratic-socialist. There were many more and, sadly, they appear to have worked. Boris Johnson may not be much ...3 days ago- Cartoonist David Low’s Radical Sympathy.
"Rendezvous" by David Low, September 1939.DUNEDIN IS THE BIRTHPLACE of, for my money, the world’s greatest cartoonist, David Low. At the height of his powers, in 1930s London, Low’s cartoons represented the visual conscience of the civilised world. His most famous cartoon, “Rendezvous”, penned a few weeks into the Second ...3 days ago- The UK has a choice as to whether it chooses to be manipulated… or not.
If you want to study propagandist techniques, you are typically told to study Dictatorships. Not unfair, but what’s always been more interesting to me is so-called “democratic” countries and their broader information systems. Why? Because people opt for it, even as they decry “totalitarian regimes!”.. It’s quite an eye ...4 days ago- Today’s secrecy legislation
Introducing legislation which shits on the public's right to know seems to have become a daily occurrence for this government. Today's example is the Infrastructure Funding and Financing Bill. The bill establishes a framework for the establishment of "special purpose vehicles" (SPVs) to hide debt from local government balance sheets ...4 days ago- Hard News: Public Address Word of the Year 2019: Time to vote!
Below is the longlist of words and phrases generated in the korero phase of Public Address Word of the Year 2019, with some editorial moderation. Now it's time to vote. As you'll doubtless be able to see, you get three ranked choices. Use your power wisely. Or frivolously, whatever.As usual, ...4 days ago- Encryption, passwords, and self-incrimination
The University of Waikato and New Zealand Law Foundation have released a report today on the law around encryption in New Zealand. There's stuff in there about principles and values, and how proposed government policies to provide for "lawful access" by creating backdoors would destroy the trust which makes encryption ...4 days ago- Drawn
A ballot for two Member's Bills was held today, and the following bills were drawn: Insurance (Prompt Settlement of Claims for Uninhabitable Residential Property) Bill (Stuart Smith) Social Security (Exemption for Ex Gratia and Compensation Payments) Amendment Bill (Willow-Jean Prime) Neither bill seems likely to be particularly controversial. This is ...4 days ago- Bougainville votes for independence
Earlier in the month, Bougainvilleans went to the polls in a landmark referendum to decide on whether they would remain part of Papua New Guinea or become independent. Yesterday, the results came in, with over 97% support for independence. The referendum wasn't binding - instead it means negotiations with the ...4 days ago- Bus strikes, suspensions and solidarity
by Daphna Whitmore This week 800 unionised bus drivers in Auckland were suspended from work after they refused to collect fares as part of a campaign of industrial action. Drivers working for Auckland’s largest bus company NZ Bus are asking for more pay and better working conditions after being offered ...4 days ago- How to support after the Whakaari/White Island volcanic eruption
As details emerge about what unfolded on Whakaari / White Island two days ago, my thoughts go out to all the families affected by this terrible event. My thoughts are also with the first responders who worked in perilous circumstances to assist and protect those affected. Both local and ...4 days ago- Final BMG poll – nothing to see here
BMG research have unleashed their final poll of the 2019 campaign:Westminster voting intention: CON: 41% (-)LAB: 32% (-)LDEM: 14% (-)GRN: 4% (-)BREX: 3% (-1)via @BMGResearch , 06 - 11 Dec Chgs. w/ 06 Dec That's a bit of a "Dunno why we bothered" sort of poll. "Phillip, I'm afraid I've been a ...4 days ago- Grant Robertson Spends Up Large – On The Establishment!
Grant Keeps On Trucking: Out of the $12 billion Robertson has announced for infrastructure investment, $8 billion will be allocated to specific projects, with the balance of $4 billion held in reserve. What does it say about this Government's "transformational" ambitions that 85 percent of that $8 billion is to ...4 days ago- Boris Johnson … Hides … In a Fridge
I am not making this up.First few lines of the Dail Mail write up:Boris Johnson's exasperated media minder swore on live TV today as the PM refused to speak to Good Morning Britain before trotting into a fridge as he started an early milkround in Yorkshire. Piers Morgan was visibly ...5 days ago- Shy Labour Voters?
In previous elections pollsters have bemoaned the 'shy Tory' - the respondent who is so fearful of being judged as a cruel and heartless bastard by an anonymous pollster, or their spouses, workmates and friends, that they lie about their intention of voting Conservative, skewing the poll figures in Labour's ...5 days ago- Seven reasons to be wary of waste-to-energy proposals
Climate Explained is a collaboration between The Conversation, Stuff and the New Zealand Science Media Centre to answer your questions about climate change. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, please send it to climate.change@stuff.co.nz I was in Switzerland recently and discovered that they haven’t ...5 days ago- Reviewing the whitewash
Back in 2015, then Ombudsman Beverley Wakem conducted a review of the OIA, Not a game of hide and seek. The "review" was a whitewash, which found no need for legislative change, and instead criticised the media and requesters - which destroyed Wakem's reputation, and undermined that of the Office ...5 days ago- You Gov MRP Poll Out
So, You Gov's MRP poll - the weird one that tries to reflect what will happen at a constituency level and which pretty much nailed the hung parliament in 2017 - is not looking too good for Labour:UK #GE2019 MRP seat projection:CON: 339 (-20)LAB: 231 (+20)SNP: 41 (-2)LDEM: 15 ...
5 days ago- Climate Change: Accountability?
We've known about climate change for over forty years now,and it has been a major political issue for twenty. And yet fossil fuel companies have kept polluting with impunity, while government have looked the other way and twiddled their thumbs and refused to do anything because "the economy", or just ...5 days ago- Delusional And Irrational: The Rise Of Paranoid Politics In New Zealand.
Sheer Loopiness: Many of those expressing bemusement at the antics of these #turnardern effacers, were convinced that they were yet another expression of the National Party’s increasingly spiteful anti-government propaganda campaign. They marvelled at the oddness of the perpetrators’ mindset and questioned the common-sense of allowing the rest of New Zealand ...5 days ago- Things to know about Whakaari/White Island
Brad Scott, GNS Science VolcanologistThis post was originally published by GeoNet. Following the 9 December devastating eruption at Whakaari/White Island we have put together some information about the island. New Zealand’s most active volcano Whakaari/White Island is currently New Zealand’s most active volcano, it has been since an eruptive episode ...6 days ago- Status quo supports status quo
The Justice Committee has reported back on its Inquiry into the 2017 General Election and 2016 Local Elections, with a host of recommendations about how to improve our electoral systems. Some of their recommendations are already incorporate din the Electoral Amendment Bill currently before Parliament, but there's also a recommendation ...6 days ago- The Greens abandon NeoLiberalism
Back in 2017, in order to make themselves "electable" in the eyes of rich people who oppose everything they stand for, the Greens signed up for NeoLiberalism, adopting a restrictive set of "Budget Responsibility Rules" which basicly prevented them from using government to make things better. Now, they're finally abandoning ...6 days ago- Lying about a failed war
Since invading in 2001, the US has consistently claimed that their war in Afghanistan has been going well, even when it continued year after year after year. Of course, they were lying, and thanks to the Washington Post and the US Freedom of Information Act, we get to see just ...6 days ago- Artificial Intelligence and You
How should we think about artificial intelligence and the implications that it has for our work and leisure? There are many articles on artificial intelligence and its potential impacts on jobs, and the ethics of applications. These are important topics, but I want to focus on some less discussed aspects, ...6 days ago- Statistical manipulation to get publishable results
I love data. It’s amazing the sort of “discoveries” I can make given a data set and computer statistical package. It’s just so easy to search for relationships and test their statistical significance. Maybe relationships which ... 6 days ago- More lies on the Twitter (Dan Hodges edition)
The other big story concerning Leeds Hospital is Boris Johnson's bizzare behaviour at Leeds Hospital, where he was confronted by a journalist and challenged about a four year old boy with suspected pneumonia who was left sleeping on the floor, rather than getting abed like a sick kid would in ...6 days ago- LabourActivistPunchedMattHancock’sSPADGate
So, for a brief period of history, it was alleged that a protester had punched Matt Hancock's SPAD (not a euphemism; special adviser) when Hancock visited Leeds Hospital.This was reported by the likes of Robert Peston and Laura Keunssberg, as well as the less credible Guido Fawkes. It also quickly ...6 days ago- France’s anti-Zionism is anti-liberté
by Daphna Whitmore Last week France passed a law that equates anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism. It is based on a definition of anti-Semitism that includes criticism of Israel such as: “Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g., by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist ...7 days ago- Another bus lockout
Over the past year we've seen major bus problems in Hamilton and Wellington, as drivers have sought better wages and an end to the bullshit of split shifts, which basicly see them "married to the job". And now its Auckland's turn. When NZBus's drivers planned low-level strike action of not ...7 days ago- Climate Change: Showing us how its done
The government has been congratulating itself over the passage of the Zero Carbon Act, which sets out long-term emissions targets. But those targets are insufficient. Meanwhile, Denmark is showing us how its done:Denmark’s parliament adopted a new climate law on Friday, committing to reach 70% below its 1990 emissions in ...7 days ago- New Fisk
7 days ago- Public sector dysfunction should not be allowed to undermine freedom of information
Another day, another piece of legislation with a secrecy clause. This time its the innocuous-seeming Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission Bill, which (after establishing a new body and making it subject to the OIA in three different ways) includes the rapidly-becoming-standard clauses enabling it to request information from other public ...1 week ago- “This is England, this knife of Sheffield steel…”
The state of the United Kingdom is fractured, torn up, shredded. The Empire is gone, it died a long time ago. And yet, the country is still tracking with a lead in favour of the ones who play to the ingrained, class-bound division for political gain. It is a disgrace ...1 week ago- CORSIA, coming soon to an airport near you
On 27 September, Greta Thunberg addressed a crowd of 500,000 at the School Strike for Climate in Montreal, saying: “You are a nation that is allegedly a climate leader. And Sweden is also a nation that is allegedly a climate leader. And in both cases, it means absolutely nothing. Because ...1 week ago- Cloaking hate speech and fake news in the right to free expression.
It should be obvious by now but let’s be clear: The same folk who regularly traffic in disinformation, misinformation and “fake news” are also those who most strongly claim that their freedom of expression rights are being violated when moves are made to curb hate speech (as opposed to protected ...1 week ago- The Physics (and Economics, and Politics) of Wheelchairs on Planes
Michael Schulson When Shane Burcaw flies on an airplane, he brings along a customized gel cushion, a car seat, and about 10 pieces of memory foam. The whole arsenal costs around $1,000, but for Burcaw it’s a necessity. The 27-year-old author and speaker — who, alongside his fiancée, Hannah ...1 week ago- To Advance Civil Rights, Oppose Transgender Extremism
We are very pleased to publish this submission is from Lucinda Stoan. She is a social justice activist, mother, and educator, based in Washington State in the US. This detailed and comprehensive source-linked overview of trans issues and what is at stake will be useful for many people, especially in ...1 week ago- Faafoi should be fired
Newshub last night reported that Broadcasting Minister Kris Faafoi had apparently promised to help out a mate with an immigration issue. While its normal for people to approach MPs for assistance in this area, when you're a Minister, the rules are different: as the Cabinet Manual says, Ministers must "at ...1 week ago- Adrian Orr – The Reserve Bank’s Revolutionary Governor?
New Zealand's Underarm Banker: It bears recalling that the “independence” of the Reserve Bank Governor was for decades held up by neoliberal capitalists as the most compelling justification for passing the Reserve Bank Act. Interesting, is it not, how the ruling class’s support for the Bank’s independence lasted no longer than ...1 week ago- Driving Us Up The Poll.
Rubbish In, Rubbish Out: Put all this together, and it’s difficult to avoid the conclusion that anyone who responds positively to a pollster’s request to “answer a few questions” is just ever-so-slightly weird. Desperately lonely? Some sort of psephological train-spotter? Political party member primed to skew the poll for or against ...1 week ago- Jordan Williams, Colin Craig podcast series announced
“Free at last, Free at last, Thank God almighty we are free at last.” ― Martin Luther King Jr. A long and bitter court feud between former Conservative Party leader Colin Craig and Jordan Williams has been settled, with an apology and compensation from Williams. On Tuesday, Craig sent out ...2 weeks ago- How plant-based meat is stretching New Zealand’s cultural and legal boundaries
Samuel Becher, Victoria University of Wellington and Jessica C Lai, Victoria University of Wellington Earlier this year, the New Zealand-based pizza chain Hell Pizza offered a limited-edition “Burger Pizza”. Its customers weren’t told that the “meat” was plant-based. Some customers complained to the Commerce Commission, which enforces consumer law in ...2 weeks ago- Scientific integrity requires critical investigation – not blind acceptance
Some people seem to want to close down any critical discussion of the current research into the relationship between water fluoride and child IQ. They appear to argue that claims made by researchers should not be open to critical review and that the claims be accepted without proper consideration ...2 weeks ago- Climate Change: The shameful reality
The government has been congratulating itself over the passage of the Zero Carbon Act, which sets out long-term emissions targets. Meanwhile, Climate Action Tracker has the shameful reality: those targets are insufficient:While New Zealand is showing leadership by having passed the world’s second-ever Zero Carbon Act in November 2019, under ...2 weeks ago- More secrecy
The government introduced a Racing Industry Bill today. As an urban who horse racing as pointless-to-cruel, and gambling as a tax on stupidity and/or hope, this isn't normally a bill which would interest me in the slightest, beyond grumpiness at more government money for a dying industry. But there is ...2 weeks ago- Unlikely online bully, Liam Hehir
Check. Check. One, two, three, four. Is this thing ON? Hello readers, I logged in last night (yeah, it’s been a while) to mark THE END of the landmark legal case, Jordan Williams v Colin Craig, which (gulp) reached The Supreme Court, in which New Zealand’s most-defamed man was suing the politician he ...2 weeks ago- The Birth Of Israel: Wrong At The Right Time.
Before The Birth: Israel’s most fervent supporters set their clocks ticking in Biblical times. They cite the kingdoms of David and Solomon as proof that, in the words of the Exodus movie’s theme-song: “This land is mine.” The majority of Israel’s backers, however, start their clocks in 1933 – the year Adolf ...2 weeks ago- Hard News: Public Address Word of the Year 2019: Korero phase
In an unreliable, strange and confusing world, Public Address is proud to present a measure of comfort and stability by annually asking everyone what words or phrases sum up the year that's been – and then giving some of them consumer goods as prizes for being clever or simply lucky.Well, ...2 weeks ago- Generalist to specialist
Both my parents are pretty handy – and they seem to have the right tools for most jobs in the garage and they know how to fix practically anything. A similar story could be told about their generation’s experience in the workforce – being a generalist was not unusual and ...2 weeks ago- A “coincidence”
When it was revealed that NZ First had tried to enrich itself from public office via the Provoncial Growth Fund, the Prime Minister assured us that everything was OK as Shane Jones, the Minister responsible for the fund, had recused himself. Except it seems that that recusal came very late ...2 weeks ago- Member’s Day
Today is a Member's Day, and probably the last one of the year. After the marathon of the End of Life Choice Act, most of the bills up for debate today are uncontentious. First up is the second reading of Chlöe Swarbrick's Election Access Fund Bill. This will be followed ...2 weeks ago- Worse than I thought
The Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee has reported back on the government's odious and tyrannical control orders bill. As expected, the fraudulent select committee process has made no significant changes (partly because they couldn't agree, but mostly because it was a stitch-up from the start, with no intention of ...2 weeks ago- The cannabis bill and the referendum
Yesterday, the government released its draft Cannabis Legalisation and Control Bill, which will be put to a non-binding referendum at the next election. I'm not a drug policy expert, but Russell Brown is, and he thinks its pretty good. And pretty obviously, it will be a massive improvement on the ...2 weeks ago- Hard News: The Cannabis Legalisation and Control Bill: pretty good so far
As you're probably aware, the draft bill outlining the proposed legal cannabis regime to be put to a referendum late next year was published yesterday, and has already attracted a flurry of comment. It's notable that a good deal of the comment is about proposals that aren't actually new.A minimum ...2 weeks ago- Climate Change: Alignment
One of the big problems in New Zealand climate change policy is the government working at cross-purposes with itself. It wants to reduce fossil fuel use, but encourages oil and gas exploration. It wants to reduce transport emissions, but then builds enormous new roads. The problem could be avoided if ...2 weeks ago- How climate change will affect food production and security
Climate Explained is a collaboration between The Conversation, Stuff and the New Zealand Science Media Centre to answer your questions about climate change. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, please send it to climate.change@stuff.co.nz According to the United Nations, food shortages are a threat ...2 weeks ago- More bad faith
Last year, the government announced it was ending offshore oil exploration by no longer issuing new permits. The idea was that the industry would then die off as permits expired. Except almost immediately the government revealed its bad faith, by saying they would extend permits and alter conditions to keep ...2 weeks ago- Banning foreign money from our elections
The government has said it will ban foreign donations to political parties and candidates, and will be introducing legislation to be passed under all-stages urgency this afternoon. While I agree with the goal, I don't see a particular case for urgency, unless the government is concerned about a flood of ...2 weeks ago- Reforming the Education Acts
The government introduced the Education and Training Bill to Parliament yesterday. Its a massive bill, which replaces both existing Education Acts, as well as various other bits of legislation (including some which are still proceeding through the House). I'll leave the serious analysis to teachers and people who actually know ...2 weeks ago- Bite-sized learning
Amelia SharmanThere’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to micro-credentials, those bits of bite-sized learning that can help workers stay on top of technological change. What’s a micro-credential? While definitions vary, micro-credentials can be understood as short courses that allow people to learn new skills or have an existing competency recognised. ...2 weeks ago- “Not The Labour Party We Once Knew.”
All Smiles Now: Claire Szabo is taking up her presidential role after serving as the CEO of Habitat For Humanity. Which is absolutely perfect! After KiwiBuild was so comprehensively mismanaged by Phil Twyford, the party has not only elected a new president from a thoroughly respectable not-for-profit, but one who ...2 weeks ago- Marxist versus liberal methodology on transgender ideology/identity politics
While much of the NZ left has transitioned to postmodern and identity politics in relation to transgender ideology, there are some very good articles about that deploy Marxist methodology in relation to this subject. The one below is from the British marxist group Counterfire and appeared on their site here ...2 weeks ago- Book review: The Farm by Joanne Ramos
by Daphna Whitmore At Golden Oaks, a luxurious country retreat in the Hudson Valley, pregnant women have the best care money can buy. From the organic food, personalised exercise programmes, private yoga instruction and daily massages Golden Oaks looks like a country lodge for the upper class. Set some time ...2 weeks ago- Loosening the purse strings
When Labour was running for election in 2017, it felt it needed to demonstrate "fiscal responsibility" and signed itself up to masochistic "budget responsibility rules". It was a fool's errand: the sorts of voters who demand fiscal responsibility are also the sorts of voters who believe that labour can never ...2 weeks ago - Spread the Word
- Paramedics voice their support for Darroch Ball’s bill protecting first responders and prison offi...
Paramedics have reiterated their support for New Zealand First MP Darroch Ball's bill to impose mandatory prison sentences on those who assault our first responders and prison officers. There are more than 50 cases of abuse and assault against New Zealand paramedics each week. The figure has remained largely unchanged ...3 days ago - New Zealand First supports new model for TVNZ and RNZNew Zealand First leader Winston Peters has revealed the Party’s stance on a proposed single public broadcaster. He said it had been the NZ First policy to support and strengthen public sector media. "For this reason, we welcome the initiative of Minister Faafoi to progress work in this area. Both ...3 days ago
- Week That Was: Whakaari / White Island
Just after 2pm on Monday this week, Whakaari / White Island erupted. Read the Prime Minister's statement here, and watch her statement to the House below. ...3 days ago - Speech: “A profession which is very hard to save”Rt Hon Winston Peters, Leader of New Zealand First Introduction Good morning, and thank you for your attendance here today. Let us start by acknowledging the work of all the media outlets and reporters, particularly the regional reporters, who have been covering this week’s tragedy at Whakaari White Island. It ...3 days ago
- Darroch Ball: Attacks on first responders one step closer to being heavily penalizedNew Zealand First MP Darroch Ball’s bill introducing a six-month minimum sentence for assaults on first responders has passed its first reading in Parliament. Mr Ball said the new offence of "injuring a first responder or prison officer with intent" would target people who attacked paramedics, police, firefighters, and corrections ...5 days ago
- Winston Peters explains why it has been a good year for Kiwi farmersNew Zealand First leader Winston Peters gave his final interview for 2019 on The Country to tell farmers they have never had it better under the current coalition Government. “Here you've got these record returns [for farmers]. These returns would be nothing like a record if the currency under the ...5 days ago
- Foreign Minister Peters says NZ High Commissioner to Cook Islands has diedForeign Minister Winston Peters said that New Zealand's Cook Islands High Commissioner, Tessa Temata, has died over the weekend. Ms Temata, 52, died in Palmerston North and had returned to New Zealand for medical treatment. She was the first New Zealand High Commissioner to the Cook Islands of Cook Island ...6 days ago
- A 6000-strong army and cuts to emissions: Defence Force maps out its response to climate changeA new defence report has mapped out how New Zealand's soldiers will navigate rising seas, and a year after the Defence Force announced its need to prepare for climate change. In the “Responding to the Climate Crisis” report, the Force restates its operational plan and sets goals to tackle climate ...1 week ago
- Week That Was: Rebuilding New ZealandWe're rebuilding New Zealand - our transport network, our hospitals, our schools and more... After nine years of neglect there's a lot to fix - but we're getting on with the job. ...1 week ago
- Week That Was: Rebuilding New ZealandWe're rebuilding New Zealand - our transport network, our hospitals, our schools and more... After nine years of neglect there's a lot to fix - but we're getting on with the job. ...1 week ago
- New Zealand First calls for more checks for African Swine Fever at our bordersMark Patterson, Spokesperson for Primary Industries New Zealand First spokesperson for Primary Industries, Mark Patterson, has called for awareness to be raised and more stringent biosecurity checks to be put in place for African Swine Fever (ASF), a widespread virus that is uncontrolled in most of Asia and a serious ...2 weeks ago
- United stand to end female genital mutilationJenny Marcroft MP, Spokesperson for Human Rights A critical step has been taken to end gender based violence against women and girls in Parliament this evening. New Zealand First Spokesperson for Human Rights Jenny Marcroft MP has welcomed the passing of the first reading of the Crimes (Definition of Female ...2 weeks ago
- Shane Jones: “market forces haven’t led to the expected reduction in Māori smoking rates”New Zealand First MP Shane Jones says it's time to recognise market forces haven't led to the expected reduction in Māori smoking rates and try a new approach. The Party had recently invoked the agree to disagree clause in their Coalition Agreement with the Labour Party, and will not support ...2 weeks ago
- FAQ: Cash injection for almost every state school in New ZealandLive from the Whanganui Opera House, on the final day of the 2019 Labour Party Conference, Jacinda Ardern announced the largest investment in school property in 25 years. ...2 weeks ago
- Coalition Government to ban foreign donations to political parties and candidatesThe Coalition Government will be banning foreign donations to political parties and candidates, ahead of next year’s general elections. Legislation will be introduced to Parliament and passed under urgency – emphasising the need for such restrictions to safeguard our democracy. The bill introduces a new requirement that party secretaries and ...2 weeks ago
- Minister Shane Jones officially opens two-lane bridge in TaipāAssociate Transport Minister Shane Jones opened Taipā's $19 million bridge recently, improving transport infrastructure in the Northland region. The two-lane bridge is 107m long with a 2.5m-wide shared walking and cycling path, and will reduce the congestion that the old one-lane bridge was notorious for. The project had also included ...2 weeks ago
- Coalition Government blocks sale of massive farmland to foreign buyerThe Overseas Investment Office have rejected the application of Mercury Agriculture LP, which is 92 per cent controlled by Canadian interests, to purchase more than 2000 hectares of South Canterbury and Otago land. Mercury wanted to buy 2000ha at Rangitata, 1494ha near Ashburton, 816ha near Cromwell and 212ha near Temuka. ...2 weeks ago
- Weekend That Was: Labour Party ConferenceThis weekend was Labour's 103rd Party Conference! We welcomed over 500 of our Labour whānau in red to Whanganui, where we reflected on the last two years in Government, and looked ahead to 2020 and beyond. We know the long-term challenges facing New Zealand won't be tackled overnight, but we're making ...2 weeks ago
- “Forgotten World Highway” to be completely sealed, thanks to Provincial Growth FundRegional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced that the Provincial Growth Fund will invest $9.6 million to seal the final unsealed section of State Highway 43 from Stratford to Taumarunui. The Minister said sealing the 12-kilometre gravel section of the highway – also called the “Forgotten World Highway” - through ...2 weeks ago
- Former Finance Minister Sir Michael Cullen supports NZ First’s stand against tobacco tax hikeFormer Finance Minister and former chair of the Tax Working Group, Sir Michael Cullen, has voiced his support for New Zealand First’s decision to oppose the planned increase in tobacco excise tax. In an interview with The Weekend Collective, he said that increasing the price was no longer effective in ...2 weeks ago
- Jacinda Ardern’s Speech to the 2019 Labour Party ConferenceLive from the Royal Wanganui Opera House. ...2 weeks ago
- Grant Robertson’s Speech to the 2019 Labour Party Conference: Future-proofing New ZealandIt is a great pleasure to be here in Whanganui for the 2019 Labour Conference. ...2 weeks ago
- Kelvin Davis’ Speech to the 2019 Labour Party ConferenceMāori are natural storytellers. On the marae we use stories to tell our history, to teach the next generation life lessons and to let people know, in our most creative of ways, who we are and where we have come from. ...2 weeks ago
- New Zealand First ‘Agrees to Disagree’ Over Tobacco Excise IncreaseRt Hon Winston Peters, New Zealand First Leader New Zealand First has invoked the ‘Agree to Disagree’ provisions of the Coalition Agreement because it cannot support the announced 11.46 percent increase in the tobacco excise from 1 January 2020. “Studies show that the automatic tobacco excise increases are having less effect ...2 weeks ago
- PGF-funded Taupō company successfully extracts lithium from geothermal fluidTaupō-based company Geo40 has made a breakthrough in extracting near battery-grade lithium from geothermal fluid which its says could be a gamechanger. Its chief executive John Worth said the earth mineral was highly prized, with battery-grade lithium selling for US$10,000 (NZ$15,600) a tonne. Geo40 was founded in 2010 to find ...2 weeks ago
- Mark Patterson delighted AgResearch campus will stay in InvermayCrown research institute AgResearch Ltd, as part of its Future Footprint plan, had intended to relocate top scientists and support staff — particularly those focused on sheep genetics and genomics — from Invermay to Lincoln. However, those plans seem to have been shelved at the request of the Coalition Government. ...2 weeks ago
- Ten Southland engineering firms receive Provincial Growth Fund boostTen engineering firms in Southland are receiving a total of $2.13 million in Provincial Growth Fund funding to lift productivity and create new jobs. Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced in Invercargill that the 10 engineering and manufacturing firms would receive funding to assist them with buying equipment that ...3 weeks ago
- Immigration industry cry foul as number of new residents to New Zealand lowest in nearly 20 yearsThe number of new residents to New Zealand is the lowest it has been in nearly two decades and it has earned the ire of the immigration industry. The industry alleges that 'Trump-style extreme vetting' is being put in place aimed at keeping a lid on immigration numbers. June Ranson, ...3 weeks ago
- U.S. signs off five brand new C-130 Hercules for New Zealand Defence ForceThe Royal New Zealand Air Force is one step closer to modernising its fleet after the United States State Department recently approved the sale of five new C-130J Hercules aircraft to New Zealand. Arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin, in Fort Worth, Texas, will provide the aircraft, but as a "foreign military ...3 weeks ago
- PGF supports more manufacturing in ManawatūHon Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Economic Development A $261,000 loan from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) has helped a family-run business in Manawatū to scale up manufacturing capacity, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced at its opening today. Ashhurst-based skin-care business The Herb Farm is on track to ...3 weeks ago
- Another step towards better freight outcomes in ManawatūHon Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Economic Development The Regional Freight Hub near Palmerston North has taken a step forward with the completion of the master plan, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones said. Shane Jones unveiled the high-level design of the new Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) backed rail-road hub ...3 weeks ago
- Maori voice to help shape tertiary education
Education Minister Chris Hipkins has announced the members of Te Taumata Aronui, a group to work with Government on tertiary education policy from a Māori community and employer perspective. “Te Taumata Aronui is an opportunity for Māori and the Crown to work more closely on changes to the tertiary education ...45 mins ago - Courthouse redesign a model for the futureThe Government will invest $100 million on a new courthouse in Tauranga which will be a model for future courthouse design for New Zealand, Justice Minister Andrew Little has announced. The courthouse will be designed in partnership with iwi, the local community, the judiciary, the legal profession, court staff and ...5 hours ago
- Government enables early access to 5G spectrumThe Government has given the go ahead to enable further development of 5G networks by making appropriate spectrum available. The Broadcasting, Communications and Digital Media Minister, Kris Faafoi, has confirmed Cabinet approval for the allocation of short-term rights to an unused portion of 3.5 GHz spectrum. 3.5GHz is the first ...6 hours ago
- Record export highs picked for primary sectorSustained high growth in primary industry exports looks set to continue over the next two years with strong prices predicted for farmers, fishers, growers and rural communities. Minister of Agriculture and Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor today released the latest Situation and Outlook report for ...1 day ago
- New partnership to boost screen sector job opportunitiesAuckland’s growing screen sector is the catalyst for a new partnership between the Ministry of Social Development and Auckland’s economic development agency Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED). The launch today at FilmFX in Henderson, is to celebrate the partnership which looks to capitalise on the social and economic development opportunities ...2 days ago
- A minute’s silence for Whakaari White Island victimsA minute’s silence will be observed at 2.11pm on Monday 16 December in honour of the victims of the Whakaari White Island eruption, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed. “Wherever you are in New Zealand, or around the world, this is a moment we can stand alongside those who have ...2 days ago
- NZ to help fund fight against measles in the Pacific regionForeign Minister Winston Peters has announced New Zealand will contribute NZ$1 million of funding towards the joint United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF) and World Health Organisation (WHO) Pacific Regional Action Plan for Measles. “Prevention through vaccination is the most effective way of avoiding illness and a costly health emergency. ...2 days ago
- New Zealand remembers Sir Peter SnellNew Zealand is today remembering one of our true sporting heroes, triple Olympic gold medal winner Sir Peter Snell. “He was a legend, here and around the world,” Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. “Our thoughts are with Sir Peter’s wife Miki and their family.” “Sir Peter is recognised as New ...2 days ago
- PM congratulates Boris Johnson on election victoryPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern has congratulated United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on his election victory. “New Zealand and the United Kingdom are close friends and despite our distance we are strongly connected by our history and people,” Jacinda Ardern said. “I look forward to continuing to work with Prime ...3 days ago
- Building a platform for the future of railThe Government has released its long term vision for a sustainable 21st Century rail network that gets our cities moving, connects our regions and gets more freight off the roads. Deputy Prime Minister and State Owned Enterprises Minister Winston Peters said the Government is committed to rebuilding New Zealand’s ...3 days ago
- Prime Minister statement Whakaari White Island recovery operationI want to start by acknowledging the families who have experienced such grief and such loss since the extraordinary tragedy on Monday. Today was all about reuniting them with their loved ones. We've just come from the airport where many of them were gathered and in amongst what you can ...3 days ago
- New Zealand medical specialists to provide further support to SamoaForeign Minister Winston Peters today announced further support for Samoa’s longer term needs as it continues to respond to a devastating measles epidemic. “Samoa’s health system has experienced massive strain in the wake of the measles epidemic. The volume of patients needing care during this outbreak, and the number of ...3 days ago
- Discounted electric-bikes offered to public sector workersDiscounted electric bikes will be offered up to public sector staff across the country as part of the Government’s work to reduce transport emissions and support healthier transport options. Associate Minister of Transport Julie Anne Genter officially launched the new initiative at Wellington Hospital today. “The Government has negotiated bulk-purchase ...3 days ago
- Australia and New Zealand confirm joint bid for FIFA Women’s World CupThe Australian and New Zealand Governments today launch an historic joint bid to bring the FIFA Women’s World Cup to the Southern Hemisphere for the first time. Australian Minister for Youth and Sport, Richard Colbeck and New Zealand Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson will announce the bold campaign, ...3 days ago
- Blackwater gold mine gets PGF boostThe Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) has approved a $15 million loan to help re-establish a gold mining operation at Blackwater Gold Mine, near Reefton, Rural Communities Minister and local MP Damien O’Connor announced at an event on the West Coast today. “This is great news for the Coast that could ...3 days ago
- Papakāinga model inspires whānau well-beingPapakāinga model inspires whānau well-being A housing project by Kohupātiki whānau in Hastings is an outstanding example of a Māori-led housing initiative that can reduce financial pressure and reconnect whānau to their whakapapa says the Minister for Māori Development Hon Nanaia Mahuta. Minister Mahuta officially opened the Aroha Te Rangi ...3 days ago
- Government provides more funding for major community wetland restoration projectRestoration efforts for a significant wetland in the Hawke’s Bay are getting more support announced Associate Minister for the Environment Eugenie Sage. “Wetlands are vital to healthy landscapes and ecosystems. They function as nature’s ‘kidneys’, filtering and protecting water quality, acting as nature’s sponges after rain and are home to ...3 days ago
- Housing First to help Nelson Tasman homelessNelson has today seen the launch of Housing First Nelson Tasman. Today’s launch marks the expansion of the Government’s homelessness programme, Housing First, to the top of the South Island. “Housing First is a proven programme that puts people who are experiencing homelessness and multiple, high and complex needs into ...3 days ago
- New funding to support Environment Centres working for sustainable local solutionsNew Government funding announced today will help communities make a difference in tackling environmental issues Associate Minister for the Environment Eugenie Sage announced in Hawkes Bay today. The Ministry for the Environment’s Community Environment Fund is dedicating $243,101 to growing the capacity and capability of the Environment Hubs Aotearoa’s (EHA) ...3 days ago
- Government takes bite out of loan sharksThe days of vulnerable consumers falling victim to loan sharks, truck shops and other predatory lenders are numbered, following the Credit Contracts Legislation Amendment Bill passing its third reading tonight. “Too many Kiwis are being given loans that are unaffordable and unsuitable, trapping them in debt and leaving their families ...4 days ago
- New Zealand safer as Terrorism Suppression (Control Orders Bill) becomes lawA Bill that prevents terrorism and supports the de-radicalisation of New Zealanders returning from overseas has passed its third reading, Justice Minister Andrew Little says. The Terrorism Suppression (Control Orders) Bill is a carefully targeted response to manage the risk posed by a small number of New Zealanders who have ...4 days ago
- Foreign Minister and Pacific Peoples Minister to visit SamoaForeign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio will travel to Samoa on Friday, where New Zealand medical teams are helping Samoa respond to an outbreak of measles. “New Zealand has been working closely with the Government of Samoa and offering our assistance from the ...4 days ago
- New Pastoral Care Code will support tertiary students in 2020The Government has changed the law to improve student safety and welfare in university halls of residence and other student accommodation. The Education (Pastoral Care) Amendment Bill passed its third reading this afternoon and details of an interim Code of Practice setting out the Government’s expectations of tertiary providers have also been released. ...4 days ago
- New infrastructure funding tool to build housing developments fasterA new tool to help councils fund and finance infrastructure could mean some housing developments happen a decade earlier than currently planned, Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford said today. “This new tool, developed by the Government in partnership with industry and high-growth councils, will allow councils to access private debt ...4 days ago
- Vision to unite the primary sector launched todayAgriculture Minister Damien O’Connor has welcomed the release of a bold new vision for the country’s vital food and fibre sector. “I’m delighted that New Zealand’s major farmer and grower organisations are today supporting the Primary Sector Council’s vision – Fit for a Better World,” he said. “The international consumers ...4 days ago
- NZ congratulates PNG and Autonomous Bougainville Government on referendumForeign Minister Winston Peters has congratulated the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government for completing a well-conducted referendum on the future political status of Bougainville. “New Zealand supported the referendum process by providing technical advice through the New Zealand Electoral Commission and leading a Regional Police ...4 days ago
- Next steps for Upper North Island logisticsIn light of Cabinet’s position that freight operations on prime land in downtown Auckland are no longer viable, the Government will now embark on a short work programme to enable decision-making in the first half of next year, Associate Transport Minister Shane Jones says. Minister Jones is today releasing the ...4 days ago
- Surgical mesh restorative justice report receivedAssociate Health Minister Julie Anne Genter has received the report back from a surgical mesh restorative justice process undertaken by Victoria University. The process heard stories, either in person or online submission, from more than 600 people affected by surgical mesh. “The report made for heart-breaking and confronting reading,” says ...4 days ago
- The Water Services Regulator Bill – Taumata Arowai a milestone for drinking water safetyThe Water Services Regulator Bill – Taumata Arowai , introduced to Parliament today, is a milestone for drinking water safety in New Zealand and will help improve environmental outcomes for urban waterways, rivers and lakes. “This is a breakthrough for New Zealanders in terms of providing safe drinking water throughout ...4 days ago
- Speech to new direction for criminal justice reform announcementKia ora koutouE ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā matā wakaTēnā koutou katoaHaere ngā, moe maiKoutou ma ngā Rangatira Ko Anaru ahauKo au te Minita mo ngā TureHe Honore tino nui kei roto I ahau No reira tena koutou katoa Today, we are releasing two reports that are the ...4 days ago
- New direction for criminal justice reformThe Government is looking to turn around the long-term challenges of criminal justice by taking a new approach to break the cycle of offending to ensure there are fewer victims of crime. Justice Minister Andrew Little released two reports today, Turuki! Turuki! from Te Uepū Hāpai I te Ora, and ...4 days ago
- New law sets up $300m Venture Capital FundNew Zealand firms expanding beyond the start-up phase are set for more support after today’s passage of the Venture Capital Fund Bill, Associate Finance Minister David Parker said. The Bill, which establishes a $300 million Venture Capital Fund, puts in place a key initiative of the Wellbeing Budget’s economic package. ...5 days ago
- New Zealand’s National Statement to COP25E ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā iwi, e ngā rau rangatira mā. Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa. Señora Presidenta, Excellencies, Delegates. International action A common thread that runs through the Paris Agreement is the commitment we have made to each other to do what we can to ...5 days ago
- Priorities for 2020 Wellbeing Budget outlinedBudget 2020 will continue the Coalition Government’s focus on tackling the long-term challenges facing New Zealand while also investing to future-proof the economy. When the Government took office in 2017 it was left with crumbling infrastructure, severe underinvestment in public services, degraded rivers and lakes, a housing crisis and rising ...5 days ago
- $12 billion in extra infrastructure investmentThe Government is lifting capital investment to the highest level in more than 20 years as it takes the next step to future-proof New Zealand. Finance Minister Grant Robertson has announced $12 billion of new investment, with $8 billion for specific capital projects and $4 billion to be added to ...5 days ago
- Strong economy, careful spending gives $12bn of surplusesThe Government is forecast to run $12 billion worth of surpluses across the four years to 2023/24 as the economy continues to grow. The surpluses will help fund day-to-day capital requirements each year. These include fixing leaky hospitals, building new classrooms to cover population growth and take pressure off class ...5 days ago
- Minister welcomes data-rich coastline mapping toolThe Minister responsible for the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011 (te Takutai Moana Act 2011), Andrew Little has welcomed the launch of an online geospatial tool that provides data-rich, dynamic coastline maps that will significantly boost research and evidence-gathering under the Act. Te Kete Kōrero a Te ...5 days ago
- Chief Victims Advisor reappointed for a further two yearsThe Chief Victims Advisor to Government Dr Kim McGregor, QSO, has been reappointed in her role for a further two years. Dr McGregor has held the role since it was established in November 2015. She provides independent advice to government on how to improve the criminal justice system for victims. ...5 days ago
- New Zealand tsunami monitoring and detection system to be establishedForeign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and Civil Defence Minister Peeni Henare have today announced the deployment of a network of DART (Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami) buoys. “New Zealand and the Pacific region are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. It is vital we have adequate warning systems in place,” ...5 days ago
- DART Buoys AnnouncementDART Buoys Announcement Aotea Wharf, 9.30am 11 December 2019 Acknowledgements Acknowledgements to Minister for Civil Defence Hon Peeni Henare also here today. White Island It is with regret that this event shadows the tragic natural disaster two days ago. The volcanic eruptions on White Island have claimed 5 lives, ...5 days ago
- National proposes to scrap Auckland’s regional fuel tax, start congestion charge
The National Party wants to repeal the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax and start a congestion charge instead. It is also promising to revive its Roads of National Significance programme. ...35 mins ago - What’s on RNZ News at midday – Dec 16
Ultra-fast mobile telecommunications networks are coming sooner than expected after the Government's decision to make unused radio spectrum available for a short term. ...42 mins ago - How to make Auckland smarter
Richard MacManus finds out how 5G will help Auckland smarten up by building better relationships with its citizens. In its latest Smart Cities Index, Swedish company EasyPark ranked Auckland 58th out of 100 worldwide cities. Decidedly average. But it gets worse, I’m afraid. In the same list, Auckland was ranked 97th ...50 mins ago - Lower growth, tiny surplus in MYEFO budget update
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The government has shaved its forecasts for both economic growth and the projected surplus for this financial year in its budget update released on Monday. The Australian economy is now expected to grow by only ...58 mins ago - Manufacturing sector concerned about freshwater proposals
The viability of some meat processing plants in New Zealand will be in doubt under the Government’s current freshwater proposals, according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA). ...1 hour ago - UK poll result a boost for NZ exporters
New Zealand exporters are hoping for a more orderly Brexit after Boris Johnson and his Conservative Party won the UK election. ...2 hours ago - Telcos gearing up for 5G spectrum auction in 2020Ultra-fast mobile telecommunications networks are coming sooner than expected after the government's decision to make unused radio spectrum available for a short term. ...3 hours ago
- Monday’s Pro email: Housing market warming up again
The Government is heading into the last Parliamentary sitting week of the year with a slightly warming economy at its back and an election year of politicking and spending announcements ahead of it. ...4 hours ago - Bernard’s Pick of the links- Dec 16
National eyes switch fuel taxes for car Road User Charges; and business leaders quiz finance minister on capacity to spend $12b. ...4 hours ago - What’s in the newspapers – Dec 16
New Zealand's economic growth figures for the September quarter may mark a low-tide mark in the current economic cycle. ...4 hours ago - Protest and petition aiming to end Warkworth RodeoAnti-rodeo protesters will demonstrate outside the Warkworth Rodeo on New Year’s Day 2020 for the fifth year in a row. ...4 hours ago
- What’s on RNZ News at 8am – Dec 16
The National Party is proposing to fine cyclists who do not use separated cycleways. ...4 hours ago - Tauranga courthouse to be replaced with new $100 million facilityTauranga's leaky courthouse is to be replaced with a new $100 million facility designed to be "more humane" and "family-friendly" and could see judges dropped down from their raised platforms. ...5 hours ago
- The 10 best New Zealand fiction books of 2019Presenting: the third installment in our best-of-the-year series, put together by the Spinoff and various benevolent elves. This time it’s fiction. These are the books that moved us, that we walk around with in our heads, and that we are giving for Christmas, smug with the certainty that they’re absolutely ...5 hours ago
- Government commitment to future of rail will save livesPlans announced for the future of New Zealand’s railways will save lives and strengthen the economy, and the Rail & Maritime Transport Union says the announcements highlight the importance of voting to keep National out in 2020. ...5 hours ago
- Creating a digital future for MaoriThe New Zealand Maori Councils Executive Director, Matthew Tukaki, has called the announcement of Communications Minister, Kris Faafoi, of the Crown and Maori’s agreement on one of the oldest Kaupapa Claims, Spectrum, a great result for Maori. ...5 hours ago
- Telecos gearing up for 5G spectrum auction in 2020Ultra-fast mobile telecommunications networks are coming sooner than expected after the government's decision to make unused radio spectrum available for a short term. ...5 hours ago
- NZ Should Emulate South Australia’s GE Moratorium15/12/2019 New Zealand should protect our global export reputation by following the example of South Australia's moratorium on release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms. [1] ...5 hours ago
- Tough nuts: why peanuts trigger such powerful allergic reactionsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dwan Price, Molecular Biologist and Postdoc @ Deakin AIRwatch pollen monitoring system., Deakin University Food allergens are the scourge of the modern school lunchbox. Many foods contain proteins that can set off an oversized immune reaction and one of the fiercest is ...5 hours ago
- God made the rainbow: why the Bible welcomes every colour in the gender spectrumSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robyn J. Whitaker, Senior Lecturer in New Testament, Pilgrim Theological College, University of Divinity This article is part of a series exploring gender and Christianity “God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve,” is a line I’ve heard more than once ...5 hours ago
- Refugees without secure visas have poorer mental health – but the news isn’t all badSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yulisha Byrow, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, UNSW There are more than 29.4 million forcibly displaced asylum seekers and refugees around the world. This global humanitarian crisis isn’t showing any signs of easing. Less than 1% of these people have been permanently resettled. This ...5 hours ago
- 5 reasons I always get children picture books for ChristmasSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kym Simoncini, Associate professor Early Childhood and Primary Education, University of Canberra Christmas is just around the corner. If you’re wondering what to get your child, your friends’ children, your nieces, nephews or basically any very young person in your life – ...5 hours ago
- Your Airbnb guest could be a tenant. Until the law is cleared up, hosts are in limboSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bill John Swannie, Lecturer in College of Law and Justice, Victoria University With summer holidays around the corner, many Victorians may be thinking about offering their homes through a home-share platform, such as Airbnb, while they get away themselves. Airbnb’s terms of ...5 hours ago
- Must end soon! But not too soon! The catch in time-limited sales tacticsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Zizzo, Professor and Academic Dean of the School of Economics, The University of Queensland As Christmas shopping ramps up, you may be getting a lot of emails offering you attractive discounts for a short period only. You may see flash sales ...5 hours ago
- Jojo Rabbit: Hitler humour and a child’s eye view of war make for dark satireSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Nickl, Lecturer in International Comparative Literature and Translation Studies, University of Sydney Jojo Rabbit is not Disney Studios’ first foray into Hitler parody. In 1943, it produced der Fuehrer’s Face – an anti-Nazi film inside Donald Duck’s nightmares. Now, Disney is ...5 hours ago
- The Bulletin: Rapid public support for midwife petitionGood morning and welcome to The Bulletin. In today’s edition: Strong public support for midwife petition, Waipareira Trust defends massive Tamihere campaign donation, and most of the bodies on Whakaari now found.A petition for community midwives to get better funding and pay has absolutely taken off. Radio NZ reports the petition, which ...6 hours ago
- ‘No surprises’: principle or unprincipled?
While 'no surprises' was not generally known as a rule in 1999, by 2005 it was an unchallenged mantra. ...7 hours ago - Two Cents’ Worth: Banking on time
A new movement is seeing the rejuvenation of an ancient economic model. Claire Crofton looks into the growing trend of time-banking. ...7 hours ago - Xmas: win a big box of the year’s best books
ReadingRoom literary editor Steve Braunias offers a giveaway of the best New Zealand books of 2019 as a Xmas present for the lucky winner. ...8 hours ago - A strange British election looked even stranger to those of used to MMPUK-based New Zealand journalist Nicola Kean on Boris Johnson’s big victory, and the conundrum of voting under a FPP system.Politics is a brutal business. My clearest memory in the sleep-deprived aftermath of New Zealand’s 2017 campaign was Te Ururoa Flavell weeping in the Mediaworks carpark after stepping down as Māori ...8 hours ago
- Flawed forecasting? Why MMR vaccine ran out
In the face of a 2018 spike in global cases of measles and predictions the virus would reach NZ, Pharmac barely increased its forecast of vaccine demand. ...8 hours ago - A great NZ conservation success story
The majestic toroa/Northern Royal Albatross raise their chicks on Dunedin’s doorstep every year, with just a little bit of help from DoC ranger Jim Watts. ...8 hours ago - Kiwi surf star pushes back the horizon
Newly-crowned world canoe ocean racing champion and IronWoman star Danielle McKenzie loves hard work, but a frenetic few months paddling around the world have finally caught up with her. ...8 hours ago - Māori TV changes migrants’ views on Māori
Should public broadcasters counter negative ideas migrants have about Māori? Susan Nemec of the University of Auckland thinks so. ...8 hours ago - The language of snoring
What do you think about the subject of snoring? It turns out your views are likely related to whether or not you’ve Googled it. ...8 hours ago - One big idea to transform travel in New ZealandNew Zealand’s universities have a shocking record on emissions. If they band together, however, they could make a massive difference. Shaun Hendy explains.Humour me for a minute by imagining that the University of Auckland was facing a 40% budget blowout next year. Of course, you chuckle, this would never happen. ...8 hours ago
- Let’s not get too prudish about pornographyEven on a subject that can generate pearl-clutching, good policy-making wouldn’t be complete without a discussion of the benefits, writes Jenesa JeramWhen I was a kid, I was the last of my friends to learn what a BJ stood for. Of course, I pretended I knew, because that’s what kids ...8 hours ago
- Combating the climate change deniers
If you find yourself in an argument with climate change-denying relatives this Christmas, here's the ammunition you need. ...8 hours ago - National wants to fine cyclists who don’t use dedicated cyclewaysThe cycleway fine is part of the party's transport ideas that will be announced tomorrow. ...18 hours ago
- COLFO Confirms Number of Banned Firearms in NZCOLFO Confirms Number of Banned Firearms in New Zealand at Upper End of Police Estimates SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ...21 hours ago
- Reefton gold mine subsidy undermines DOC landThe Provincial Growth Fund giving $13 million to a gold mining project under DOC land on the West Coast is a disgraceful waste of public money says Coromandel Watchdog, a group fighting gold mining in Hauraki. ...1 day ago
- CEAC are strongly in support of Government rail funding planCEAC reviewed the NZTA National Land Transport Programme “2021–24 NLTP development” plan to see the support for rail funding was there, and NZTA is now seen as ‘anti-rail’ in their NLTP plans, contrary to Government policy to use rail - heads must roll. ...1 day ago
- The world’s longest commute: Advice for Kiwi startups trying to make it in the UKKiwi startup founder Jenene Crossan has spent two years enduring jetlag and heinous London Airbnb prices as she builds her latest business.Jenene Crossan, co-founder and CEO of beauty booking service Flossie, has spent most of the past two years sitting in airport lounges and living out of suitcases in a bid ...1 day ago
- Decade in review: The 10 live-show moments that defined the decadeFrom New Zealand’s biggest band selling out Western Springs to a landmark moment for Pasifika women onstage, these are the live events that shaped New Zealand this decade.An anchor in the middle of the deep blue sea: Daffodils, 2014 Todd Emerson and Colleen Davis in Daffodils, on stage at the Traverse ...1 day ago
- Review: Colonial Combat reinvents colonisation as a level playing fieldIs there something to be learned from TVNZ’s Wild West-meets-WWE-meets-19th-century-New Zealand web series? After all, writes Sharon Mazer, colonisation, like professional wrestling, is a fixed match.The premise underlying TVNZ’s new web series Colonial Combat is anachronistic and preposterous, even by WWE standards. It’s also fascinating.Transported from American popular culture to ...1 day ago
- What to do if you’re sad at ChristmasFor a lot of people, there’s not much joy to be found at Christmas. Emily Writes spoke to Dr Sarah Bell-Booth and Gwendoline Smith about how to deal with the hard stuff in the face of all that relentless holiday cheer.Despite my anxiety, I generally enjoy Christmas now that I ...1 day ago
- Apology to Alexandra AllanThis contained incorrect information regarding the remuneration of Alexandra Allan. The item has now been deleted and Scoop unreservedly apologises to Ms Allan for the distress caused due to this publication. ...2 days ago
- The best-selling books this Xmas
This week's biggest-selling New Zealand books, as recorded by the Nielsen BookScan New Zealand bestseller list and described by Steve Braunias. ...2 days ago - Conservative landslide at UK’s Brexit election; Trump’s ratings rise on strong US economySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne At the December 12 UK election, the Conservatives won 365 of the 650 House of Commons seats (up 48 since the 2017 election), Labour 202 (down 60), the Scottish National ...2 days ago
- Johnson’s thumping win an electoral lesson in not just having policies, but knowing how to sell th...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Tormey, Professor of Politics, University of Bristol So for all the talk of narrowing polls, tactical voting, and possible shocks leading to a hung parliament, Boris Johnson achieved a crushing victory over Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party in the UK’s ...2 days ago
- Obituary: Sir Peter Snell, the inscrutable genius of middle distance runningSir Peter Snell has died, aged 80, at his home in Dallas, Texas. James McOnie remembers arguably New Zealand’s greatest ever athlete.Sir Peter Snell was so great that small towns still engage in custody battles over the legendary runner.His birthplace Opunake (where he spent his first 11 years) claims him, ...2 days ago
- Māori Injustice Issues Will Have More VisibilityMāori Injustice Issues Will Have More Visibility Thanks to New Panel Advising Ombudsman A prominent Māori leader, Lady Tureiti Moxon believes Māori injustice issues will be seen much more now thanks to Pūhara Mana Tangata, a first-time Māori panel appointed ...2 days ago
- KiwiRail investment through Land Transport fund: government proposal ‘historic’ – ...The government is moving to fast-track billions in funding for rail investments in a change that is being hailed as historic. ...2 days ago
- Short story: Rack, by Emma Neale
“It was right there in the waiting room that Jack first told me he was finding it hard to separate his fingers”: a parent’s nightmare, by Dunedin writer Emma Neale. ...2 days ago - The 10 best New Zealand non-fiction books of 2019We started picking a top 10 ourselves and puttered out at about #3, sick of the sound of our own voice. Bugger it, we thought, and sent for assistance. It’s been like Christmas ever since, an inbox flowing over with gorgeous, sincere little gifts. Here’s the nonfiction selection, in no ...2 days ago
- Leading us through lossThe leadership shown by tangata whenua at every national disaster and tragedy should be recognised and honoured by all of us, writes Catherine Delahunty.I do appreciate having a prime minister who is capable of expressing decent, human emotions when tragedies descend on us. It’s a sadly low bar that she ...2 days ago
- Black Stick’s determined journey from Apiti to Albany
From the pockmarked rugby paddock of Apiti, to the smooth, iridescent-blue turf of Albany, Black Sticks defender Steph Dickins' hockey journey has come a long way. ...2 days ago - The freakiest stuff you can buy for just $1 this ChristmasIf you want to shock and amaze your friends and family this Christmas, look no further than the deep recesses of $1 reserve Trade Me. Folks, I’m going to let you in on a huge Christmas secret here: you can get all your presents for $1 if you know where to ...2 days ago
- Rules and revelations: The Govett-Brewster’s gutsy 50th birthday rehangTo celebrate the 50th birthday of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth, Walters Prize-winning artist Ruth Buchanan has rehung their collection, bringing previously unseen works and skeletons out of the closet. Her new exhibition The scene in which I find myself/Or, where does my body belong examines ...2 days ago
- 12 months of upheaval, pain and pride: on watching New Zealand from afarIt is hard to remember a year in which New Zealand was so repeatedly in global headlines, writes Kamahl Santamaria, a Kiwi journalist based in Doha.Time zones are a strange thing. You go to sleep, and then for eight hours or so, you miss out on everything happening on the ...2 days ago
- Lucky Boris – now the long game begins
Napoleon demanded that his generals be lucky. Conservative PM Boris Johnson, as he surveys a thumping victory in the British general election, would meet that criterion. His luck bears a resemblance to that of Margaret Thatcher. Like her, he has made a decisive break with orthodox establishment thinking. That presents ...3 days ago - View from The Hill: Morrison won’t have a bar of public service intrusions on government’s powerSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Scott Morrison has rejected or sidelined a number of recommendations from the long-awaited Thodey review of the public service that might have constrained his and his government’s power. Not surprisingly, a proposal to ensure changes ...3 days ago
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ECO MAORIs Kiwi Bank ac 389019048573100 Please help me to sort the nz police out
I decided against trying to use PayPal to receive donations .I decided to copy
Thestandards safe way of appealing and receiving donations I set up a Kiwi Bank AC
So he tangata the people of Aoteraoroa New Zealand who support ECO MAORI can use internet banking to make donations and know that there bank accounts are safe after they have made a donation . ECO MAORI will use the donations to SUE the nz police for all the breaches to mine and my Whano Privacy Rights & Human Rights a lot of people can see this has been happening to ECO MAORI when I win my case I will set up a
Charitable Trust and I will pay the money that I used and any extra donations into this Trust account and appeal to anyone else in Aoteraoroa who need help with finance to SUE the nz police for there in justices I will copy bank statements on this site to let he tangata the people know that ECO MAORI has Honest Honorable and transparent intentions to use your hard earned Putea Money. .
Kia Kaha Ka kite ano
Good morning The Am show on TV3
Duncan you think that because the justice administration failed to provided a Judge with the relevant information on that case and the wrong choice was made to give that person bail and he killed that girl your logical way to solve the problem is to lock up more people keep the bail laws or worst strengthen them and build more jails .
My logical solution is that the Justice administration need to make sure that all relevant is presented to the judge before the Judge grants bail NO. Ana to kai.
Ka kite ano
There is another person who made moves against ECO MAORI to stop the process that could have end my farcical challenges by the sand flies .I will be wiping that smile off his face . Ana to kai.
I say that Simon Bridges was forced into building that 4 lane highway in Tauranga
by shonky & joyce look joyce is still spinning his lies he was just a crafty puppet who served shonkys there broad band role out was a plan with peter thiel to use social media to keep national in power by cheating Ana to kai ka kite ano
Rock Rumble radio good on you Bruce for getting involved in Joe Parker fight. Ka kite ano
Looks like the sandflys are trying a nother facial play just seen someone at a gas station that haven’t seen in a while they are desperate. An to kai. Ka kite ano
Donna Miles has a excellent articular on the stuff joyce put in OUR supermarkets.
Heres the link .
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/102005429/kiwi-drinking-culture-is-as-stupid-as-the-american-gun-culture
Ka kite ana
The Big Three gone, … Key , English and Joyce.
‘ So , its goodnight from Me and its goodnight from them’…
And there will be many more goodnight’s from the National party now Hooton has been unleashed.
two ronnies – YouTube
Video for well it’s goodnight from me and goodnight from him you tube▶ 1:30
Are beginning to warm to Collins as Shadow FInance?
Not often you get warm and Collins in the same sentence.
“Collins” and “shadow” however, go together like 2 Ronnies.
Oh I don’t know, shes a fine looking women with a considerable intellect and a down to earth pragmatism married with strong leadership qualities
Not much warmth in there……. so, really, PR, you do know.
FYI, ‘warmth’ can mean ‘enthusiasm, kindness, affection’. Those are synonyms.
Antonyms are things like ‘ruthlessness’ and ‘compassion’ which attributes the Journalist Lloyd Burr awarded Joyce’s replacement, Nicola Willis.
Meanings of words do matter.
She has similar qualities to Jenny Shipley.
That’s far from a compliment by the way.
No I don’t see a lot of JS in JC, JS always seemed to come across as a bit smug/sanctimonious whereas JC has always come across as being in charge, a leader…someone you’d be willing, nay, want to follow
One comes across as condescending, the other cruel and nasty.
Its true a lot of people are intimidated by competent, confident, intelligent, attractive mature women
Shame really
Well that counts Collins out.
As for your comments ” JC has always come across as being in charge, a leader…someone you’d be willing, nay, want to follow ” … yeah I suppose people wanted to follow Genghis Khan for precisely the same reasons : they were put to death if they didn’t.
and people wonder why more women arn’t interested in going into politics
And whys that , old bean?
Come on , spell it out for us all…
Is Sweetie Collins a snowflake too?
Being that shes been an electorate (not list) MP for 15 years and stood for leader of National I’d suggest Jude is anything but a snowflake
Well then , – that just goes to show that with her unfortunate yet longstanding political record , that it negates the former statement you made about her and women in general .
” and people wonder why more women arn’t interested in going into politics ”
Oh , and btw ? … if you are trying to infer women are the ‘fairer’ sex and therefore more delicate in the political arena? Here’s a grim dose of reality for you.
Dachau KZ: STUTTHOF CONCENTRATION CAMP PART 9/10
dachaukz.blogspot.com/2013/12/stutthof-concentration-camp-part-910.html
Well done, I didn’t think you’d Godwin this but there you go
Nothing Godwin about that my old son , and tell that to the victims descendants.
After all ‘ Godwins’ law was written by a computer geek who lived long after those horrific events. What is it to him who suffered?
Kind of takes the edge off that overly convenient and worn out catch all phrase for anything someone finds rather ‘ uncomfortable ‘ , doesn’t it.
That said , you messed up by feigning crocodile tears for women entering politics by trying to take the moral high ground. It failed. And it failed because we all could see it was a statement to further your cause, which was, … trumpeting the ‘moral virtues’ and ‘sterling’ political record of one Judith Collins.
When she was in fact , – stood down by John Key himself and humiliated by being sent to the back benches for alleged conflicts of interest over Orivida, – and also was strongly suspected of ‘water for free’ in exports to China, – as well as valuable Swamp Kauri worth millions. All done while using her position as MP in an incumbent govt.
Hardly a savory character to want to have as a ‘ leader’ ,… as you say.
nayneigh!“Oh I don’t know”
True!
Much more succinct, Robert Guyton, than my response. Same nil answer, though…
A tag team between Adams and Collins, according to Soper ,.. Judith Collins is the one with the master of law degree and a master of taxation studies…
And still doing field work for a PhD in Oravida studies?
With a minor in Swamp Kauri exportation …
Collins is going to test the findings of the Tax Working Group like water tests a dam.
Aaron mate interviews Gideon Levy on The Real News…
ALL of what you are currently witnessing is a precursor . Thats all.
All of the destruction , the slaughters , the rearranging of borders, the oil grabs and the convenience of keeping the globe in a state of tension benefiting politicians and munitions industry’s will be displaced when we have a global leader who will announce the historical location of the Temple of Israel.
The compatibility of having the Dome of the Rock kept in its place and the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple on its original site will mean even the Muslims will be happy to assist Israel in its rebuild.
But the good vibes, peace , love and natural foods wont go on forever when that event happens, as we will all see…
What if the Temple Mount is not the Temple Mount? – YouTube
Video for What if the Temple Mount is not the Temple Mount?▶ 48:24
Thanks for that Adrian. Was kinda looking forward to “join us in part 2” – but can’t bloody well find it 🙂
Burrrr.
The irony of the right of accusing Obama trying to subvert the school system.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2018/03/05/a-middle-school-teacher-led-a-double-life-as-a-white-nationalist-podcaster/?utm_term=.11afe3ea26ff
What is with these fires and the environmental impact?
Be careful out there my fellow Aucklanders/Jaffas.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12007957
Edit:
Those Aussies, sometimes they can be very good. Big ups to them for embracing Solar panels.
http://www.climateactionprogramme.org/news/australia-installs-a-record-3.5-million-solar-panels-in-2017
not the metal that’s burning though right? Clean green NZ.
“The crews are also struggling to ensure there is enough water to fight the blaze,”
That’s another interesting climate change context. Can you fight fires with sea water?
Yes, but then there’s all the salt you’d be dumping on the land while doing so.
And once the fire is inland by any decent distance, the problem is still “distance to nearest water source” for trucks and aircraft.
Good point about the salt/land, although I’m guessing there’s a trade off to be had between that and letting noxious plastics and chemicals burn.
Yes distance, I was thinking about places like Ak that are close enough to sea water.
Short answer yes, but not electrical fires. Also the problem of equipment compatibility.
It seems we are getting asked these questions more and more with rising temperatures. My guess a few more questions will be asked that we didn’t even think to ask.
No water at all on electrical fires, or just no salt water?
I think there are all sorts of questions we haven’t thought to ask yet.
I notice they didn’t say why there was a shortage of water.
No salt water, salt is conductive.
Me too, maybe they just worried about the water, there is a major water pipe running through that area.
As we speak, more and more fire trucks are converging on the site.
I hope there is going to be support for people in the area that are unwell or not robust enough to handle chemical exposure.
Well we can smell it in Onehunga. It’s about 4 km from my house.
Edit: update with new pictures.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12007790
To add further to McFlock’s, Salt is only use when there is no other source of water, as salt water tends to bugger up hoses, pumps and nozzles etc as well as the ground if a much is use on the same area as its a real pain in the ass to fix soil after the fire.
fix the soil because of salt water use? I’m guessing fixing the soil after the chemicals too, or do they mostly burn off?
Sorry for my late reply,
Fixing the soil up after using salt water during a fire, can range from resting the affecting area ie. letting nature do its stuff, flushing/ irrigate the soil with fresh water or adding mineral’s to soil to break the down the salt via irrigation or spreading/ drilling/ ploughing the soil.
The using of fire retardation is a of a double edge sword as most common fire retardations use in bush fires and most others depending on the type fuel have sticking argent which is design to smother fire. The red retardant that is commonly for Bush fires sticks to everything (I mean everything) and the effects can still be seeing years after the fire has gone though it. Its become stranded policy for NT Bush Fires for us on the fire line to abandon the fire line if this red stuff is used when we have Air Support.
Most of the time we used Soap/ Foam capsule’s and it was the same when I was in the DOC High Country Fire Team in the 90’s as it was less expensive, but still required the hoses, pumps etc to be flush.
PPAS foam is a bloody great fire retardant for Liquid fuel type fires and probably for most fires as well. But the ground has to soak with water to break down the fire retardant or contain with some of sort bunting (note that the use Bunting for PPAS after it become knowing if after its long terms effects to the environment) it if its use for training or in a urban environment.
Yikes. I wasn’t even thinking about those chemicals. I meant the ones in the scrap metal fire from the cars (plastics mostly I guess).
Sometimes its better to let nature do its stuff or contain the fire and soak it with water in some cases.
Yeah, the Ockers are embracing Solar panels, but there is a wee small problem happening.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-07/solar-power-what-happens-when-theres-too-much/9522192
That seems crazy. Mate of mine lives near where Tesla put in the batteries in SA. Said it has been great, no more blackouts.
More storage is the key. Good news, storage is getting better all the time.
They had a similar problem over in the Pilbara region with one of the mining towns can’t remember which one, where the locals went nuts with Solar power units and end blowing up a number sub- stations around the town to a point when the local power company put a ban on them from being install unless you had a battery unit install.
If you are going to do solar power, you’ve got put battery storage in as well and its something that my soon to be wife and I look ATM. The cost ATM is around 30-40K AUS dollars all up, but I feel that the battery technology has to improve a bit my likening ATM as seen lithium batteries vent and the odd one explode with work and its something you really don’t need to be near one of those batteries go up in smoke.
But in saying that its the way of the future as it gives you a lot of freedom and saves a lot money in the long run. For example one our friends here in Darwin are in Defence House with Solar Power and they are paying between 50 to 150 Aus dollars a quarter for their power! we are also in a Defence House as well with Solar Hot Water and we are between the high 200’s to the mid 300’s (our power usage doesn’t move that much between the Dry and Wet as we are bloody Nazis our power usage) a quarter for our power bills, where as some of our other friends are 700 plus a quarter.
Can anyone shed some light on what has now happened about this investigation into “lobbyists????
I heard a conversation on RNZ between (right winger) Susie Ferguson and (left winger) Brice Edwards about some results so does anyone know what the results are as to how the big Corporations have immense power over our government now please?
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/98473124/list-of-lobbyists-with-access-to-parliament-to-be-reviewed-by-new-speaker
List of lobbyists with access to Parliament to be reviewed by new Speaker
As far as I am aware, there is no formal investigation happening into lobbyists etc, cleangreen.
However, there are a lot of media attention and discussions going on at present in relation to lobbyists and similar people talking to and/or being employed or contracted to work for Ministers or MPs’ and possible (or perceived) conflicts of interest.
Dr Bryce Edwards, in his interview on RNZ this morning was suggesting that there some murkiness in this whole area, with perceptions of grubbiness; but it is a hard area to regulate because there is a place for some forms of lobbyist activity. His suggestion is that there is a need for wider debate to open it up for discussion; and greater disclosure of conflicts of interest etc. He was not advocating for the setting up of a formal investigation as such.
Here is the link to the recording of the interview – http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/morningreport/audio/2018635017/murkiness-in-politics-causing-disillusion-bryce-edwards
Re the Stuff article you linked to in your comment, since Nov 2017 the Speaker of the house, Trevor Mallard, has reviewed the list of people (including lobbyists) who do not actually work at Parliament but who are approved to visit Parliament; and there appear to be a number of deletions from the older list in that Stuff article.
Here is the latest list from the Parliament website – Note it is titled “Approved Visitors to Parliament”
https://www.parliament.nz/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/office-of-the-speaker/corporate-documents/approved-visitor-list-to-parliament/
Thanks veutoviper,
Looks like the PM’s all like taking bribes from the corporate lobbyists eh?
Tonight on news the PM said she will not agree to a strict control as green party advocated, on donations from Corporate lobbyists.
So I guess that means the situation is not going to change anytime soon eh?
By treason, by treachery, and by incompetence, this is the worst-performing White House in my memory.
Gary Cohn, who has served as President Donald Trump’s chief economic adviser since last year, will step down from his position, the New York Times reported Tuesday.
That’s of course due to the steel and aluminium tariffs going up.
When this entire White House leadership crumbles inside six months, we are going to see the full extent of a world without functioning political leadership in the US at all.
Nah,
We saw this same thing said that about Labour didn’t we in august last year????????
Brings new meaning to the term “revolving door”.
That said, the world is not having problems because of trump, trump is just the outcome of a system which is broken. It offered up the two worst candidates in history last election, and the game show host won.
The failures of liberalism as an ideology, and economic system are now on stark display. trump and his administration are a response to it, a bloody awful one, but a response nonetheless.
Really the problem is, people not accepting that reality. Liberalism has failed.
Some thoughts regarding the comments yesterday about petrol ‘beggars’.
It seems that some pay lip service to the idea of inequality, but have a dismissive contempt towards those who are actually suffering from that inequality.
The single jobseeker benefit for under 25 years is $177.03 net per week, over 25 is $212.45.
Please take a moment to reflect on how YOU would cope living on that amount. No savings, no assets, no family help. I find that many people state they couldn’t possibly manage, but expect others to because they are somehow ‘different’.
My benefit is paid today and I have just enough petrol to drive to the nearest petrol station for my budgeted $15.00 this week. Sometimes I wish I had the nerve to beg petrol.
After I’ve paid my bills and bought food I’ll probably have $5.00 to last me until next Wednesday.
Increasingly there is a frightening disconnect between the haves and have-nots in NZ, with the former having not the faintest idea of how many in NZ have to live.
thanks beatie. I saw your comment yesterday too, and agree. I have no problem at all with people begging for petrol (or anything) if that is what they need to do. I think your analysis about judgements is good too.
Thanks beatie, solo father here but working 40 hours, it’s tough but I know I’m lucky. Wish you best of luck mate and thanks for sharing.
Thank you. This time next year I’ll be on the pension which will mean an extra $100 per week. Wow! Can’t wait
“Increasingly there is a frightening disconnect between the haves and have-nots in NZ, with the former having not the faintest idea of how many in NZ have to live.”
Add to that the many who don’t WAN’T to know and have no interest at all in finding out. After all, I’m alright, not my problem, won’t happen to me…
Just announced by simon, amy adams appointed as finance spokesperson, what a surprise lololollol
This is why we should all be outraged by the TPP in any form:
https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2015-05-30/how-little-it-cost-bribe-senates-fast-tracking-obamas-tpp-bill
Anyone else in Auckland had the letter saying rent is going up. Seems landlords are going to grab as much of the new accommodation supplement increase as possible.
The increase asked for was just short of 9% ($25 in dollar terms). When wages have only had a 1% or 2% increase, and inflation running at 1.9%. I’m confused why landlords and indeed property managers think they have the right to gauge the market and the populous. It makes me think they want the increase to line their pockets.
Shame when the government tries a hand up, the rich put their hand out.
As the AS been increased across the board? Can’t say I’ve had W&I offering me a rise.
It will be, as of 30th of april. It’s automatic, they will send you a letter after they do it.
Thanks for the warning adam. Had no idea of the date, it’s not like we need to know these things is there? (No doubt we’re expected to regularly check into their website- like hell I will!).
I know the AS cap in Wgtn is increasing a whole $5 to a totally pathetic $105/week, but anyone who’s getting TAS- especially to help with rent- be aware it’s likely to be cut so be prepared to come out of this generous AS increase worse off.
Yes, that’s a real concern, and I haven’t been seeing much discussion. Has anyone put it through a calculator to see how it’s going to work out?
I put mine through the calculator and it seems that I will be receiving a $1 cut from what I currently receive.
that sucks 🙁
cheers. So are the landlords increasing the rent *ahead of that? I saw numerous tweets a while back about Wgtn rents going up already.
I’m not!
good for you Antoine 🙂
(and maybe you could stop arguing so hard against tenant rights 😉 ).
I continue to support a healthy balance between landlord and tenant rights (preferably with those rights being backed up by some real enforcement)
A.
What I’ve seen is that in a time where people are literally living on the streets because of lack of tenant’s rights you think it appropriate to bring forward the rights of landlords.
Yes, I do. Both tenants and landlords benefit from a healthy balance between landlord and tenant rights.
Some changes that gave tenants more rights, could actually increase the number of people without homes.
A.
P.S. I don’t think many people are living on the street because of lack of (reasonable) tenant’s rights. I think they are living on the street because we don’t have enough dwellings. If we had more dwellings then I think the rental market would return to a pretty healthy state without a lot of further intervention.
P.P.S. We may disagree on some things, but remember I do support the compulsory rental WOF, so I’m not toooo far from being on your side.
You should ask for something in return. Something which, while not absolutely broken, does need upgrading.
$25/week is a lot and is nearly $4000 over three years. You landlord needs to be shown it’s not all one way traffic.
I got dismissed to today by the property manager. Especially when I pointed out that the property was way below minimum via the market.
Learnt somthing, that the tenancy tribunal will only discuss market rents. Not the Ponzi scheme it is part of to increase rents.
I think I said to Ad yesterday about the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment being a hotbed of ideological tomfoolery. Who would have guessed today that would come back and bit me on the bum. Tenancy is part of that ministry, and they have so odd rules about challenging rents. You can only challenge a rent increase if it is outside the market range. How that for protected self interest on the part of property management companies.
Here you go McFlock. Fuck the hypothetical asteroids, there are man-made space objects that are an immediate threat 😉 Thank-you space program.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=12008067
Hah.
Bit of a black eye for the Chinese program, that. Not only did the Russians keep Soyuz going for ages beyond it’s planned operational life, ISTR they plonked it into the Pacific pretty accurately in the target zone. Even if this thing causes no damage, the Chinese haven’t managed to catch up / leapfrog anyone.
The odds against it braining anyone are, err… astronomical, though.
“The odds against it braining anyone are, err… astronomical, though.”
Murphy’s law – You’re close to invoking it. 🙂
Jim Mora’s off work today, but don’t get your hopes up: his
replacement is the perky but shallow Megan Whelan
The Panel, RNZ National, Wednesday 7 March 2018
Megan Whelan, Scott Campbell, Holly Walker, Julie Moffett
Scott Campbell is a National Party activist, and has stood out on this show for many years now as a particularly complacent and smug commentator on all manner of topics. On today’s Panel he distinguished himself by mouthing some less than intelligent sub-thoughts, with the worst being an incoherent attempt at explaining how Fijians living in poverty are all “happy” because “they don’t know they’re living in poverty”, and “they live in a nice place, so they’re lucky that people go over there and help them.”
Unbelievably, however, the confused ramblings of this National Party stooge were not the low point of today’s show. That came from the stand-in host Megan Whelan, who without a trace of irony moved smoothly from discussing the Trump regime’s internal shenanigans to North Korea, which she called “the rogue state”. Obviously this had been written down for her, and she hadn’t given it more than a second’s thought, but I thought it was worth drawing her attention to her lack of professionalism. I sent her the following email…..
More Megan Whelan mediocrity, for those who can bear it….
Adams gets finance for the Nats
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/102051425/national-leader-simon-bridges-appoints-amy-adams-to-finance-portfolio
No surprises there. Is there no-one else who could do the job?
Good evening 3 News Hub Eco Maori has been busy studying Ngati-porou tepuna history I see why Nga puhi have a problem with us Ngati-porou tangata.
The cricket is quite exciting. I have quite thick skin you know. Ka kite ano
The project on TV3 The House and Marae of Ngati-porou houner our Ancestors particularly our Lady’s and Ngati-porou ladies were aloud to speak on our Marae.
Ka kite ano
The project on TV3 I had already seen the joyce phenomenon long ago but don’t forget that ECO MAORI is the flute master a
Ka kite ano