Open mike 07/05/2019

Written By: - Date published: 7:00 am, May 7th, 2019 - 142 comments
Categories: open mike - Tags:

Open mike is your post.

For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose.

The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy).

Step up to the mike …

142 comments on “Open mike 07/05/2019 ”

  1. The Chairman 1

    Even Phil O'Reilly get's it (the need to overhaul the welfare system)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cdo_Pz6ez5w&t=20s

    • Ad 1.1

      The extent of this political failure is measured by how bad the poverty stats are compared to how good the economic growth and unemployment stats are.

      4% unemployed, major sectors seriously begging for staff, really low numbers on welfare.

      A generational moment to address poverty using the state's machinery.

      But no. Leave it.

      Real shit work Sepuloni.

      Two weeks to budget and its 'framework', this government is acting as tired an uncaring as a third term National Party government.

      • marty mars 1.1.1

        I'm not 100% on your measurement of political failure but I do agree that this is a major fail. Disgusting actually that Labour can even be connected with that veto on benefit rates and disrespect to this report. Fuck they are in for some shit – time for action Labour and yes I know you're in a coalition – so fucken what. I'm pissed at these people leaving our most vulnerable even worse off.

        • greywarshark 1.1.1.1

          It's time that Labour got back into the viewpoint that we should aim for full employment – even if a lot of that is doing volunteer work. And people should be able to be on unemployment and still make extra on that, or be in part-time work and have their income boosted. Keep people in the loop, not feeling useless, rejected then resentful and angry.

          The point is that we need to follow the line again of 'investing in people'. Bugger waiting for cold-minded, hard-eyed, calculating business to do it, especially since government has facilitated a lot of our business being bought or controlled by foreigners, either living here or overseas. Not all foreigners are bad of course, but many are very good at ripping NZ off, and that just adds to the scamming NZs already in business. The climate for employees is not a good one.

          Encouragement for people who can get vibrant community measures going would be essential to raising us up where we belong. Like this great piece that Kathryn Ryan did this morning with the Whanganui low income-no income people.

          https://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018693899/growing-silverbeet-and-self-esteem-in-whanganui

          Give funding for something like this in every community – skill-building, confidence and pride building, respect-the-people building, this is what Labour and Greens can do and NZF would agree; some of the funding could go to old people working with the young.

          The Chairman shows Phil O'Reilly thinking that the welfare system needs work. I doubt very much if that man or any of his cohort have much useful stuff to add, so I'd say to progressive lefties, do your planning and just let him make suggestions if they will help the people-capacity building plan along. He would probably have something to say about being ready for employment; being able to get a job and be a capable and useful employee is important, but jobs will be pulled out from under your feet all the time in coming years. (Note the recent case in Wellington for a long-term arts-involved part-timer being dismissively dismissed; putting people out of work is a default position for business). So being able to be self-caring, self-managing, and co-operate with other good people who are also aiming for self-respect and respect for others, resilience, and who are learning capacity-building and passing it on, should be the goal.

          The Chairman was doing a thorough think-through on this welfare report and tentative response from government yesterday and made some telling points that I have copied.

          The Chairman …

          7 May 2019 at 10:10 am

          No, I'm suggesting that the government has no mandate from voters for radical welfare reform and that's why it's taking a cautious approach.

          Here we go again. You've yet to prove that. Merely repeating it doesn't make it so.

          Sixty-five percent of New Zealand First supporters wanted the party to go with Labour. Who widely campaigned on addressing poverty and inequality.

          Additionally, if it were just Bradford and I that are disappointed Labour wouldn't have a problem. Unfortunately for them, the disappointment is widespread.

          Moreover, failing to deliver on more of the recommendations sooner will lead to their fiscal management coming under the spotlight. People will question why they aren't prepared to invest now to save the greater cost and social harm of not doing so.

          The Chairman 5.1.1

          6 May 2019 at 12:14 pm

          This goes beyond political disappointment. This is about denying via delaying further help to real people struggling in poverty. So no, I'm not here to gloat, I'm seeking solutions. Is a new left party the answer or do you think it will be possible to encourage Labour to act with urgency?

          The Chairman …

          7 May 2019 at 7:20 am

          The report highlights what is required. Therefore, it's not that they don't have a clue.

          They aren't stuck fiddling, they are stalling.

      • Herodotus 1.1.2

        a vast majority of the current cabinet could well be working under a national govt instead of the current Laboir govt and we would not see any difference in decisions 😢

      • Psycho Milt 1.1.3

        Have you ever had to try and get multiple independent groups with conflicting agendas to agree and work together smoothly and consistently on common goals? I've watched other people trying to do it and would not like to try it myself.

        Coalition government between parties with opposing political interests is extremely difficult. This current one is performing way better than I expected it would, not least for the simple fact that it still exists and hasn't torn itself to shreds. If you want a well-disciplined group smoothly implementing policy it has no mandate for, National is (unfortunately) your only currently-available option.

        • alwyn 1.1.3.1

          "to agree and work together smoothly".

          This lot have found a very simple method. Simply ask Tsar Winston what he wants and do it. You can't really try and claim that the Green Party, all the time, and the Labour Party, most of the time, have ever attempted to do something that Winston doesn't approve of. Labour occasionally put something forward that Winston doesn't see as really important to his survival and he will allow them to do it. The Green Party, on the other hand are simply doormats. Still, about half them get to ride in the limos and no longer have to settle for calling a taxi to get them around. I guess that feels like progress to them.

      • The Chairman 1.1.4

        Its failure to deliver is going to be problematic for this Government come next election.

        • The Al1en 1.1.4.1

          Why would you worry about that?

          Wont that new ultra left party you're advocating for easily become the new government?

          • The Chairman 1.1.4.1.1

            One doesn't have to be ultra left to outperform this lot.

            Nevertheless, I'm left but I'm a lefty with a long-term proposal that would potentially result in doing away with taxing locals. Something that would get your average right-wingers attention, thus perhaps support.

            And ponder this, how many businesses would benefit from consumers (receiving benefits) spending more? Increasing benefits rates doesn't just benefit beneficiaries. It's also good for businesses returns while saving tax dollars via helping to reduce many social ills, thus is able to muster traditional right wing support. As shown by Phil O'Reilly’s support of the welfare overhaul.

            You asked: "Why would you worry about that?"

            Because I'd like to see them deliver on more.

            • The Al1en 1.1.4.1.1.1

              Right, so this fantasy party that would be left of labour and the greens is just rhetoric and fake, just like your concern for their vote share at the next general election.

              With our populace, labour have to err to centre to get elected and stay there, especially so with the right NZ1st in coalition and a public that shows no appetite for full on leftism.

              The answer to turn labour left, as it always has been, is to party vote the greens and give them 10 to 15 percent to trade for policy in post election negotiations.

              • The Chairman

                Wow!

                Back it up.

                At this stage, there has only been calls for a new party to form.

                And being left doesn't mean it won't also appeal to the right (as shown above). Thus, the wider public.

                The flaw with your logic (which is commonly stated) is Labour doesn’t have to be right (or as you put it, err to the centre) to win over the right and the centre vote. Again, as shown above.

                Labour's problem is they aren't prepared to stand strong for the left and take the debate to National. For example, they could have won the CGT battle. Polls show the public supported it. Moreover, their constant backing down gives the public the perception they were wrong, further weakening theirs (and the left's in general) position in the eyes of the wider public.

                The Greens have shown they fold far too easy to hold Labour to account. And seeing as I've been continually telling them to up their game or risk losing their support, at this stage I won't be voting for them again.

                And the way the Greens are currently polling, it could be a wasted vote, nonetheless.

                • solkta

                  Vote Green again my arse. You are just a really crap troll.

                  • The Chairman

                    Not only did I vote Green last election, I was on here (thus on record) encouraging others too. So save your bullshit.

                    • solkta

                      Giss-a-link or it didn't happen.

                    • The Al1en

                      Aside from clearly not understanding how mmp works, expecting a 6% party to call the shots who aren't even in government proper, for a long time you've been an attacker of the greens on here, unbelievably more so than the rwnj brigade, the answer to getting more green policy enacted is still to vote for them in bigger numbers, increasing their bargaining power in negotiations.

                  • The Al1en

                    “Vote Green again my arse. You are just a really crap troll.”

                    Obvious dichotomy.

                  • The Chairman

                    Here's one where I highlight the Greens are a better choice

                    https://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-07092017/#comment-1379864

                    • mac1

                      The Chairman, saying that the Greens are a better alternative to Labour, considering your opinion of that party, is not really an endorsement.

                      "I'd prefer a head cold to the'flu," is what you're saying!

                      And here's what you say about Labour in this thread, below. "But yes, a number will fall for Labour again." Note the language.

                      This is what "fall for' means.

                      fall for sth. informal. — phrasal verb with fall uk ​ /fɔːl/ us ​ /fɑːl/ verb fell, fallen. to be tricked into believing something that is not true: He told me that he owned a mansion in Spain and I fell for it.

                      What you say is what you believe, The Chairman. Methinks thou dost protest too much.

                • greywarshark

                  The Gambler with Kenny Rogers

                  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hx4gdlfamo

                  Who or what is The Gambler at the moment?

                  People supporting Labour hoping that they know when to hold, and when to fold, oand will get to the counting goodies stage?

                  Or people giving up and saying that Labour is full of borer, all hollowed out inside, and folds under pressure, but hoping that new growth shoots can be encouraged?

                  Or people saying that time is short, winter is here, the time for withholding criticism is over, let's have a new party of the left that is dedicated to people at grassroots level and practical living standards and regulation all set up for the everyday person and micro and small business, and the Greens can concentrate on the green issues, better light bulbs, environment and the people with special interests.

                  • The Chairman

                    Yes, in politics one has to know when to hold or when to fold. Unfortunately for Labour they seem to have it the wrong way around.

                    They should have folded on their support of the TPP and stood strong on their support of a CGT.

                    • greywarshark

                      Did Labour Coalition have a choice on the CCTPPa? What would have happened if we had said we can't sign it or wecan't sign it in this form and wanted all sorts of alterations, or deliberately made so many requests that we in the end were frozen out?

                      I felt we would have been very unpopular, frozen out in other markets, and received a pasting here through the bought media.

                  • The Chairman

                    It seems Labour had a choice when they were campaigning against it.

                    Moreover, the potential return on the TPP was/is minimal. So it wouldn't have been a great loss.

                    Labour did manage to disappoint a lot of people by ultimately supporting it.

                    And while they seem to have overcome that (as the negative impact of the TPP has yet to fully occur) it's the build up of disappointments accumulating that risks taking them out. Yet, I concede they are doing ok in the polls, but one must consider if they could be doing better if it wasn't for the disappointments accumulating. Moreover, will they take a hit if they continue to fail to deliver.

                    • greywarshark

                      The Disappointment Accumulator. Perhaps we could make money on it if someone started a book with some outfit like William Hill. They can't take us on as customers as they are only licensed for Gt Britain and Gibraltar. I'm sick of feeling miserable as I watch the country go to the dogs – might as well have a bet on the side.

              • The Chairman

                Where did I say I expected the Greens to call all the shots?

                I've been holding the Greens to account. And have even passed on advise.

                I'm a believer that democracy doesn't just end after we vote. If we make our feelings widely known, there is more chance parties will take heed and listen. Whereas, if we remain silent, little will change. Hence, more of us need to speak up and take this approach.

                And even if the Greens do muster more support (which at this stage I think is unlikely) they (this current lot) have shown they are not fighters. And if one wants more from the table, one has to stand strong and fight for it. Especially as the Greens will still be the smaller partner in any new deal with Labour. And the Greens just don't have the backbone at the moment.

                • The Al1en

                  Your reputation precedes you, so that latest attack on the greens isn't all that unexpected.

                  History shows you definitely appear to be a fake green/ leftie on a sustained smear mission.

                  • The Chairman

                    That reputation is based on slander which you are perpetuating.

                    My feelings on the Greens are widely shared, evident by comments on social media and their failure to gain traction in the polls.

                    • solkta

                      You've been caught out so many times. Might as well just ditch the handle and start all over.

                    • The Al1en

                      Apart from it can't be slander because it's the written word, and it also happens to be a fair representation, you have earned a reputation here as being anti green, which is because you continually post anti green comments.

                      With supporter like you, who needs enemies?

                  • The Chairman

                    It is still libel/defamation nonetheless.

                    I'm not anti Green, I just hold them to account. Them, Labour and their cheerleaders are so scared of any form of criticism it seen as an attack.

                    Thus, they do their best to isolate it (making out it is a single voice in a crowd) and diminish it (usually by trying to paint the person as being part of the opposition). And that is how this reputation all came about.

                    Therefore, you have either fallen for it (which some have) or you are advancing it. Either way I suggest you pull your head in and stick on topic. Playing the man and not the ball is another common distraction used.

                    • The Al1en

                      If you're worried about the alleged libel, shit or get off the pot, it's your call. Given your posting history and abuse towards the green party, I'm not sweating it. You can pretend it's holding them to account, but the reputation you have is, in my opinion, well deserved… And I’m not alone in thinking that, far from it.

                      In noting how you're attempting to rewrite the past by mitigating the abuse you've unfairly apportioned, the crocodile tears about people playing the man are, I suspect, more boy who cried wolf.

                    • McFlock

                      Alternatively, your idea of holding people to account is to focus exclusively on overstating the negatives of the party(s – you give Labour the same assistance, too, sometimes), leaving little effort to recognise their successes or even criticising the tories once in a while, too.

                      If you were an employer treating people like that, you'd be done for constructive dismissal and workplace harrassment.

                  • The Chairman

                    I'm not worried what people think about me, I'm not the issue.

                    I was just giving you a heads up on where it's at. Moreover, it was a test of your character to see if you would now refrain or continue to advance the personal crap. Clearly you failed.

                    Thus keep playing the man, but you will now be allocated to the sidelines as you have now been exposed as a player.

                    Stick to the politics you’ll get a reply, play the man and you’ll be playing by yourself.

                    • The Al1en

                      So I've failed your character test. To be brutally honest, I take that as more of a compliment than a defect.

                      What I will keep doing, abiding by the site rules, is point out where you are being unreasonable and lacking a grasp of today's politics. If you want to divorce yourself from the green party, that's fine, but cut the crap you've got their best interests at heart. From your continued abuse, I don’t believe it for a second, and It's quite clear you really haven't.

                      If you don't want to be called fake green, the simple way out is not act like a fake green.

        • Rosemary McDonald 1.1.4.2

          Its failure to deliver is going to be problematic for this Government come next election.

          Maybe. On one hand folks might vote National (or not Labour/Greens) figuring we're all better off being led by arseholes who are proud of the fact they are arseholes.

          Or, this lot will be voted in again because they appear so kind and loving while pretending they are not being arseholes. Who doesn't like the warm fuzzies?

          • The Chairman 1.1.4.2.1

            Well, there is Mana and Social Credit some on the left may turn too. Some (as I've already heard) will no longer vote at all. And some may turn to a new party if one is formed.

            But yes, a number will fall for Labour again.

            • greywarshark 1.1.4.2.1.1

              What about TOP. It sounded promising if it sticks to the UBI with increments, it might drag in some of the welfare bennies.

              • The Chairman

                Personally oppose TOP. Their UBI was insufficient and they wanted to tax unrealised gains, forcing those that are asset rich but income poor to borrow to meet the burden.

                • In Vino

                  Coming in late at the end of a long thread.. I love that phrase 'The Disappointment Accumulator'

                  I too have long seen The Chairman as a concern troll – the most persistent and devious I have seen.

                  But I would now like name The Chairman "The Disappointment Accumulation Dispersal Man."

                  His messages always spread discouragement… so far.

                  • greywarshark

                    In Vino I note and agree with you, which is pretty usual.

                    I used to dislike The Chairman because he was negative too early in my opinion, a disagreeable old moaner, in my opinion, when we needed to watch, encourage, wait for results and not put weedkiller on our patch.

                    But I read some of his stuff the other day and think his opinion was right for the time. He made a case that would allow Prime Minister Jacinda to press forward using leverage on her popularity with NZ, and get the austerity-for-everyone-but-me Labourites off their bums and looking across the room at other figures and numbers. They don't care about people in need and the founding ideals of Labour. But figures and numbers that show money spent now will save huge expense later would crown their miserly minds; and Labour could draw on reserves set aside now for those high expected future expenses. Spend now, and produce three-fold advantage of drops in expenditure in ten years or such.

                    From my comment at 1 1 1 1 I think I quoted The Chairman saying what I consider should be pressed on the Labour Coalition leaders prior to the Budget of the 30th May.

                    Sixty-five percent of New Zealand First supporters wanted the party to go with Labour. Who widely campaigned on addressing poverty and inequality.

                    Additionally, if it were just Bradford and I that are disappointed Labour wouldn't have a problem. Unfortunately for them, the disappointment is widespread.

                    Moreover, failing to deliver on more of the recommendations sooner will lead to their fiscal management coming under the spotlight. People will question why they aren't prepared to invest now to save the greater cost and social harm of not doing so.

  2. "The Last American Vagabond" is always really on-to-it with his analysis. He always links to the stories he is drawing his information from, so even if you don't agree with his conclusions, the links speak for themselves.

    In the case of what is going on in Gaza, it seems one balloon on fire (as reported by Israel) landed on Israeli territory. Israel then fired missiles into Gaza for two days before the Gaza government responded. One of the Last Vagabond's small but very interesting points is why the Gaza missiles that are basic and unguided haven't hit civilian targets while the sophisticated guided Israeli ones have. There is one video of a rocket hitting an apartment block that makes it completely collapse. I don't think the Israelis are so stupid they wouldn't know how to hit the target they want to with its guided missiles. I'm going to speculate that they already knew what its targets they wanted to draw out. One has to wonder what Israel's ultimate objective in regards to the Palestinians is now and how a war with Iran might aid that.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oK17ZxwucuM&feature=share

    • Adrian Thornton 2.1

      Here is a good piece from the ever reliable FAIR…you can include NZ media in this analysis too, and shamefully including RNZ.

      The Atlantic Illustrates Everything That’s Wrong With Media Coverage of Venezuela Sanctions

      “Trump’s Venezuela Policy: Slow Suffocation,” an Atlantic report (4/17/19) by Uri Friedman and Kathy Gilsinan, passed up a rich opportunity to expose the humanitarian pretexts for economic intervention, and instead exhibited the worst tendencies of corporate media coverage of US policy in Latin America."

      https://fair.org/home/the-atlantic-illustrates-everything-thats-wrong-with-media-coverage-of-venezuela-sanctions/?awt_l=CnT3e&awt_m=h0eSPn4haIR._TQ

      • Gosman 2.1.1

        Venezuela can choose to trade with any other country on the planet. They do not NEED to trade witht he US. The US is not under any obligation to trade with Venezuela if they do not like the current regime in charge there.

        • Blazer 2.1.1.1

          its not that simple.

          When the U.S engages in financial war, trade becomes extremely difficult for regimes that have sanctions applied to them.

          Denying nations access to the B.I.S and SWIFT systems as Iran is experiencing ,have a huge impact on trade and the domestic economy.

          • Gosman 2.1.1.1.1

            Rubbish. Lot's of nations have survived and even thrived when the US has refused to trade with them. Iran is certainly not falling apart at this point in time. Even Cuba has managed for close to 60 years with trade restrictions and even managed a degree of growth until the 1990's.

        • Adrian Thornton 2.1.1.2

          @Gosman, when you make a statement like the one above, you show that you are either extremely naive', stupendously stupid or a troll, or maybe a bit of each?

          • Gosman 2.1.1.2.1

            If you disagree with me explain to me WHY the US should trade with nations that it has fundamental ideological differences with.

          • greywarshark 2.1.1.2.2

            Cripes Adrian you are either extremely naive', stupendously stupid to keep on discussing anything with Gosman – you have been here long enough. What was that about mad people doing same things, expecting different results?

        • Gabby 2.1.1.3

          The yankistanis heavy other nations into complying with their sanctions gozzer, you didn't realise that?

    • gsays 3.1

      I don't mind others using pakeha to describe me.

      I don't use the word to describe myself.

      Simply because it is using anothers term of reference.

      To be clear, I am all for Te Reo in schools and highly value how Maori have shaped what being a "kiwi' is eg we are marvelous hosts, great allies and formidable opponents, and the importance of breaking bread together feet under the same table.

      • JanM 3.1.1

        Whereas as a pakeha I'm not that keen on being called a kiwi

        • gsays 3.1.1.1

          Fair enough Jan, I will bear that in mind when addressing you.

          Do you mind if I ask why?

          • greywarshark 3.1.1.1.1

            What a load of waffle this thing about description is – pakeha, tauiwi, kiwi, whats the beef? My gran used to say 'You can call me anything you like, but don't call me 'late for dinner'.

        • RJL 3.1.1.2

          Absolutely. I would much rather be called "Pakeha" than "kiwi".

          "Kiwi" is infantile nonsense.

      • Sacha 3.1.2

        Resisting a term defined by others is an expression of power – who has it, who fears losing it, and the balance society negotiates at the time.

    • Gosman 3.2

      If people choose to use the word to describe themselves or allow others to do the same that is their right. I myself do not prefer to be defined by another culture.

      • marty mars 3.2.1

        What 'culture' are you then.

        • Gosman 3.2.1.1

          NZ European or NZ Anglo-Celtic.

        • indiana 3.2.1.2

          I'm from the culture of Hip-Hop….Rap is something you do, Hip-Hop is something you live! You are not doing Hip-Hop, you are Hip-Hop!

      • Sacha 3.2.2

        You can 'prefer' all you want, but that does not determine what social groups you belong to. That is negotiated by society, funnily enough.

  3. WeTheBleeple 4

    There's a comedy festival in town. do you like your comedy political, switched on and intelligent? Many The Standard readers will love this guy. Thank me later.

    https://www.comedyfestival.co.nz/find-a-show/steve-hughes/

    Are you looking for a mad genius? A crazy discombobulated no holds barred anything goes act like you've never seen before. One of my favorite acts in the world (and people).

    https://www.comedyfestival.co.nz/find-a-show/phil-nichol-your-wrong/

    And there is a mad gem of a comic here from Australia. Seriously off the wall, I was an instant fan after this clip: Demi Lardner

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4ryPZW06EY

    https://www.comedyfestival.co.nz/find-a-show/demi-lardner/

    Demi might be relatively new, but she certainly deserves patronage. Seriously funny, but not everyone's cup of tea.

    You should be able to find your own cup of tea in the Festival there are a lot of shows.

    https://www.comedyfestival.co.nz/find-a-show/

  4. Bruce 5

    I heard Duncan Garner on TV last night saying that studies show cannabis causes brain damage to kids. Allbeit it was a station promo there was no reply and I was left with the impression that this was irrefutable fact. ( clever work TVNZ ). I thought then that the numbers with fetal cannabis syndrome would be huge, but can't find the numbers. Also very grateful we were lucky with our three kids. And all the kids of the parents in my cohort.

    • Shadrach 5.1

      Hi Bruce

      I didn't hear Duncan Garner on this, but the links between cannabis use in pregnancy and foetal development problems are covered in the following:

      https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140127093140.htm

      https://www.healthline.com/health-news/children-cannabis-impairs-fetal-brain-development-012814#1 (which links to http://emboj.embopress.org/content/early/2014/01/27/embj.201386035)

    • Drowsy M. Kram 5.2

      Some more recent (2019) links (all cite Shadrach's 2014 EMBO Journal paper).
      Only the abstracts (copied here) are free.

      https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-90365-1_17

      Cannabis use among pregnant and parenting women is increasing in the USA, alongside escalating THC potency in available cannabis products and the use of synthetic preparations. Existing information on how cannabis use during pregnancy may impact the course of pregnancy and fetal/child development is limited, and studies that evaluate birth outcomes and postnatal development of prenatally exposed children are inconsistent. However, accumulating neurodevelopmental data in animals and humans shows that pre- and postnatal cannabis exposure portends harm for the developing fetus and the child. THC crosses the placental barrier, and current evidence indicates that prenatal cannabis use, especially during critical periods of brain development, places the developing child at risk for neuropsychiatric, behavioral, and substance abuse problems. The extensive legalization of cannabis, the recent increase in marijuana use by pregnant women, the availability of cannabis with higher THC concentrations, and the introduction and escalating use of synthetic cannabinoids create an urgent need to determine the effects of the amplified fetal THC exposure. The risk of neurodevelopmental problems in THC-exposed children may be enhanced if the child is raised by a mother affected by neurobehavioral dysfunctions and associated comorbidities of an active cannabis use disorder. Identification and treatment of cannabis use and cannabis use disorder in women during the perinatal period should be a high clinical priority. Misperception of risk, inadequacy of provider knowledge and training, and scarcity of time and resources to comprehensively address the needs of cannabis-exposed mother-child dyads are common among health providers. Although more research is needed to establish the perinatal effects of maternal cannabis use, pregnant and postpartum women should be aware that perinatal cannabis use risks safety for both mother and child. This chapter provides an overview of the epidemiology of perinatal cannabis use, the neurobehavioral effects of prenatal cannabis exposure for the developing child, and the treatment strategies for the mother-child dyad affected by cannabis use.

      https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/1067828X.2018.1561580

      Marijuana is recently a subject of a global debate due to potential medical application of cannabis products and the progressive legalization of its recreational use. This situation leads to the need for access to comprehensive and reliable information about the effects of marijuana intake. Our review presents the actual state of knowledge regarding acute and chronic health effects generated by recreational marijuana use. Marijuana smoking can lead to structural and functional alterations in the central nervous system. These effects are especially significant and dangerous at the prenatal, child, and adolescence periods. In contrary to a common myth, cannabis does exhibit an addictive potency, albeit not a strong one. We discuss the “cannabis gateway hypothesis,” which suggests that marijuana use can be the first step before trying more dangerous drugs. However, drawing significant conclusions is difficult due to the strong impact of confounders and often unclear relationships among studied factors, especially in the socioeconomic context. Moreover, we point to the need for the unbiased assessment of the harm generated by marijuana in comparison with other drugs.

      https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/acta-neuropsychiatrica/article/cannabinoid-signalling-in-embryonic-and-adult-neurogenesis-possible-implications-for-psychiatric-and-neurological-disorders/E9DE9116DC604D976C9C7B0D2D254674

      Cannabinoid signalling modulates several aspects of brain function, including the generation and survival of neurons during embryonic and adult periods. The present review intended to summarise evidence supporting a role for the endocannabinoid system on the control of neurogenesis and neurogenesis-dependent functions. Studies reporting participation of cannabinoids on the regulation of any step of neurogenesis and the effects of cannabinoid compounds on animal models possessing neurogenesis-dependent features were selected from Medline. Qualitative evaluation of the selected studies indicated that activation of cannabinoid receptors may change neurogenesis in embryonic or adult nervous systems alongside rescue of phenotypes in animal models of different psychiatric and neurological disorders. The text offers an overview on the effects of cannabinoids on central nervous system development and the possible links with psychiatric and neurological disorders such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, brain ischaemia/stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. An understanding of the mechanisms by which cannabinoid signalling influences developmental and adult neurogenesis will help foster the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental, psychiatric and neurological disorders.

  5. cleangreen 6

    Today 7th May 2019 was the best hard hitting action from John Campbell I have seen to date.

    He ripped into the Christchurch debate and had Dame Sylvia Cartwright on the show "to boot" talking about the upcoming 'class action' lawsuit going against Government agency "Southern Response". Hard hitting stuff worth a watch.

    https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/john-campbell-exclusive-major-australian-law-firm-backing-3000-canterbury-homeowners-in-class-action-against-government-owned-southern-response?auto=6033165600001

    John Campbell exclusive: Major Australian law firm backing around 3000 Canterbury homeowners in class action against Southern Response JOHN CAMPBELL BREAKFAST PRESENTER

    • WeTheBleeple 6.1

      "From our experiences with some other litigation, we have serious reservations about what sort of directions may have come from the previous Government to the leadership of this particular organisation. We don’t believe the present Government has had any part in directing what has taken place here."

      National leading the charge in shafting citizens no doubt.

      ~ 3000 claimants short changed with Billions in question.

    • The Chairman 6.2

      Wonder if the current Government will advise them to settle this out of court?

  6. greywarshark 7

    https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/388631/elderly-women-take-a-stand-as-auckland-council-fights-its-own-organisation

    These older women want to be maintained in the style they are accustomed to and given all the medical help to live out healthy long lives with their needs met. They think it is wrong that five-storey units should be erected near their pensioner units. Is it? Five stories is high. The planners are insisting on this, but three-storeys surely would be more suitable. At five stories, there becomes the need for a lift which a ground floor and two higher would avoid.

    Compromise, going lower while still enabling more people to be housed not just have smart young planners force their ideas on the public because they can would be the best approach I think.

    • Sacha 7.1

      They live just back from a major arterial route, not some sleepy village. Five storeys (including retail and office levels) is already a compromise to get more people living and working near frequent transport and all the local businesses that population density allows to thrive.

    • AB 7.2

      I have sympathy for both points of view – both the women who want an aesthetically pleasant environment and a city on a human scale, and the council who has to find somewhere to put all these people.

      What are cities for? Are they primarily places where commerce can occur at close proximity? Or are they places that are good to live in? I suspect it is difficult for them to be both successfully – other than for a small elite of the wealthy.

      • greywarshark 7.2.1

        The question can also be asked – do old people who go on living far beyond the age that was normal, have the right to be treated as royalty and eat cake and be kept in an extremely comfortable manner because they merely have not died, while the young are left to crawl out of their cardboard boxes in the middle of the road etc.

        A caring and intelligent society would not end up with the differential in living standards we have now. Ergo we are not a caring and intelligent society. That is an awful shock to realise for an older person who believed NZ was a good country. Old people's opinions should count. and they would be concerned about leaving things good for the next generations so their reasonable objections should be listened to while not stopping the higher building level.

        I suggested three stories would be suitable, having lived in a building that high. It is right that building should go up but not to a height that is isolating. The upper crust might enjoy the Ayn Rand style. Most like to be closer to the ground and the wider community life there. What are cities for? The inhabitants to have a home and leave some land to grow stuff when it all comes down to it.

        • Molly 7.2.1.1

          Design quality is important Grey.

          The Bjarke Ingels Group, who have built lower-cost developments as well as the Lego House, and museums in Denmark, show how higher density does not necessarily mean loss of amenity.

          Have a look at their Big 8 house – a development with high rise apartments that have been designed to have a small outdoor space, and a walkway that connects you to the rest of the development and the ground outside each apartment.

          Link to a Youtube clip that I haven't watched, but scanned through. The walkway is at around 11.30

          • greywarshark 7.2.1.1.1

            I'll have a look at that. I only lived in 3 storey and that seemed good. I have seen the details about the attempt to put western people in the high rise places and how badly that works out. They have them in places like Hong Kong, Singapore – if Singapore they are so antsy about keeping tidy, they might be able to run an effective high-rise without squalor and vandalism.

            But the ones you mention sound as if they offer better access. But being too far from the ground for parents with young children can be a very bad move.

            • Poission 7.2.1.1.1.1

              The ugliness of spreadsheet architecture.

              https://unherd.com/2019/04/the-hideous-spread-of-spreadsheet-architecture/

              • greywarshark

                Eww. I remember going for a walk past where my forebears built their house in the outer city back in the early 1900s. Alas I don't think we had ever taken photographs of it – we weren't very imaginative and thoughtful. Alas it had come down and was part of the ground environment for a similar high storey building as you showed in the link.

                When I was newly married and had saved a deposit and went to a subdivision being developed by a builder, there was a book of plans to choose from, and if you wanted an extra room here or a bigger laundry, it got costed in. There was a choice of claddings.

                Now the ugly boxes painted brown with dark grey roofs are a third-rate version of a home. All the same all the way down the road. And apparently the government has allowed restrictive liens to go onto titles so you can't even create something that you would like after you buy. They all have to be the same. It's a body corporate effect I think even when you have your own separate free-standing house and title.

                When i was looking at cohousing and looking at the body corporate legislation, the function is there to have a fairer document that doesn't give power to a small bunch of elected members, but each person can have a free vote on most things.

                I think that the average developer has far too much power, and far too little imagination to have the amount of say they have achieved. The quality of life and attraction of suburbs has diminished according to the size of the developer's brain – as in Fawlty Towers one should watch the ground when with a developer, if you see a pea-sized object it could be a vital part of the man/woman's brain.

            • Molly 7.2.1.1.1.2

              " But being too far from the ground for parents with young children can be a very bad move. "

              I watched a different documentary on the architect, but the Big 8 house which is in the clip, has a walkway in a loop from the ground to the top storey, at an accessible grade, which means that people can ride their bicycles – or push pushchairs – to their front doors. It also provides that front space for all units that becomes community space, where neighbours hang out and talk.

              Innovative design – can mitigate some of the issues that are brought up regarding the high density living our planners should be moving towards.

              However, it does not come without criticism, and the studio has been criticised by the BAU and traditional form crowd for "ugly" buildings. The occupants seem to like them though.

              • greywarshark

                The problem with the horrible high rises in UK and USA has been access to the upper units, through a lobby where residents could be targets, or which could be in awful condition. So what you have said might be the answer. I could imagine the skateboarders loving the sloping walkways. Sounds as if it could be an enjoyable place, and noise could be mitigated.

                When it comes to multiple storeys the views of this well built town in Verona Italy La Garda? really appeal – the buildings look nice and none of them are grey, brown or charcoal.
                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-k-7mEyPkR0

                • Molly

                  Unlike the critics, I actually like the aesthetic of the Big 8 development, primarily because of the way that they allocate space.

                  Beauty in the eye of … and all that.

                • Sacha

                  You did notice how tall those Italian buildings are, right? People have lived like that for centuries, without pining for a lawn to mow.

                  • greywarshark

                    Are you going to pick everything I say apart now and put it under a microscope Sacha?

                    • Sacha

                      As if. You haven't responded about what's underlying your preference for short buildings other than claiming everyone else wants the same as you.

                      This region can’t afford more car-dependant sprawl with climate change upon us, which means building up rather than out from now on.

                      The more people live in each area, the more small businesses can thrive there. Taller buildings also frees up more surrounding space for shared public assets like parks and community centres.

        • Sacha 7.2.1.2

          Three storeys can be less accessible than five for people who actually can't handle stairs, increasingly common with age. The ongoing cost of lifts is shared so it is more expensive per home in a four-storey than a nine-storey building or a ninety.

          Worldwide urban designers know that seven storeys is still human scale architecture as it echoes the largest established forest trees our ancestors were familiar with.

          The community-building facilities that surround a building have more impact on inhabitants' sense of belonging than its height does.

          There will always be smaller dwellings and quiet seaside villages but not everyone will be able to afford to live in them.

          • greywarshark 7.2.1.2.1

            Those developers might have just come down from the trees and had their ideas affected accordingly. From an ordinary human point of view the three storey that I suggested is the best and cheapest option.

            And indeed the top storey isn't then for everyone, but in life we have to look at what is suitable, difference gives choice.

            • Sacha 7.2.1.2.1.1

              "From an ordinary human point of view the three storey that I suggested is the best and cheapest option."

              Best for what? Cheaper per home than what?

              • greywarshark

                The ongoing cost of lifts is shared so it is more expensive per home in a four-storey than a nine-storey building or a ninety.

                It would be cheaper in a three storey to not have a lift than the four-storey which would need a lift, and so (with a lift) the height would probably need to be – ground and five upper storeys, so six to make it practical.

                But three storeys could be manageable without a lift. And indeed we could start incorporating the Dutch-style method of having a beam to haul stuff to for the higher floor.

      • Psycho Milt 7.2.2

        Meh. Many Aucklanders want to live in a mult-million-residents city AND live in a nice house with a garden AND be located with convenient access to the city AND not have any apartment blocks near them AND have a low cost of living. People who have contradictory expectations usually find that not all their expectations are met.

    • Gabby 7.3

      The council don't think it's such a flash idea either greysy. Might be worth following the money on this one.

    • joe90 7.4

      These older women want to be maintained in the style they are accustomed to

      Obviously a hefty ratepayer subsidy isn't enough.

      • Andre 7.4.1

        Was this the bit that caught your eye?

        One and two-bedroom units are sold to the elderly at 80 per cent of the market value, with the exception of the village at Carrick Place, Mt Eden where the units are 50 per cent of the market value.

      • greywarshark 7.4.2

        That's interesting joe90 thanks.

  7. Jimmy 8

    Chloe Swarbrick should be the leader of the Greens Party. That woman has a good future in politics. She is mature beyond her years. Always organised and interviews extremely well. I am not a fan of the greens especially while Marama Davison and James Shaw are there as joint leaders. I really think they should go to the single leader ie. Chloe.

    • mauī 8.1

      Marama and James don't seem to be natural leaders to me either, they're not natural extroverts for a start. Chloe has that great oratory skill, much like Ardern and Lange which I think is critical to get people to connect with and follow you.

      • Jimmy 8.1.1

        Agree… and I think Chloe is actually smarter than both the current leaders.

    • Gabby 9.1

      It's very kind of Erdygerdy to give the hoi polloi the opportunity to correct their mistake. He will no doubt ensure the outcome is the right one this time.

  8. CHCoff 10

    https://www.magic.co.nz/home/news/2019/04/jacinda-ardern–the-christchurch-summit-in-paris.html

    The EU is the closest inter-nation body in the world, to respective societal economic contributors and diplomat corps of nation states combining along with others of different nations in the formation of blocks that then dynamically VOTE on what are to be collective shared courses of action that are the most beneficial.

    Inclusive and dynamic economic networking combining with democratic political structures.

    Someways to go to that maybe but then someways to regress also.

    A lot of the time, it is UN stuff that we get but it is perhaps no less fruitful to engage with and constructively support the EU when appropriate too.

    • ianmac 11.1

      Very interesting EP. Couldn't find such info elsewhere. Has Andrew announced it all yet?

  9. Siobhan 12

    Interesting, and somewhat predictable update on the Gloriously Simple Answer to all our Future Nature of Work and Subsequent Inequality Problems That Everyone Loves Even Zucherberg and All The Other Tax Dodgers, otherwise known as the UBI.

    “If cash payments are allowed to take precedence, there’s a serious risk of crowding out efforts to build collaborative, sustainable services and infrastructure – and setting a pattern for future development that promotes commodification rather than emancipation.” This may help to explain why UBI has attracted support from Silicon Valley tycoons, who are more interested in defending consumer capitalism than in tackling poverty and inequality……

    This calls for more and better quality public services that are free to those who need them, regardless of ability to pay.

    and there's the rub..all of our austerity budget governments are committed to spending as little as possible, be they Right, Left or in the Middle..they all would like us to know how not spending is more important than even basicaly maintaining the house we live in, let alone securing good outcomes for our children.

    https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/may/06/universal-basic-income-public-realm-poverty-inequality?CMP=fb_gu&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR2eOPMyVg68zNacUN2fNj4FhNi_K_Gex0OYzTRZbFKv1K5x0e0DqzdxDew#Echobox=1557140856

    • greywarshark 12.1

      Except that the people are regarded as cash cows by business – that's where they want the spending to be. Not on repairs, but on new goods with either volume mark-up or goods of taste and discernment that allow for better profit from those who have risen on the social mobility ladder.

      If you aren't in that bracket, and can't even afford the cheaper volume goods, the business community have managed to limit your access to second-hand electrical goods under health and safety, repairs are almost as dear as new goods. If Council don't upkeep the public provision of things it makes life more difficult. Further down its round the rubbish bins, dumpster diving is prevented by locks though they throw out much good, edible produce, the opshop throw outs (and the opshops are keen pricer uppers), and so on – there are plugs in place to prevent trickle downs by big business. The system is pretty tight.

  10. ianmac 13

    Oops. Simon Bridges has been chucked out of the House for rubbishing the Speaker mid through Simon's questions.

  11. greywarshark 14

    Another problem for the Labour Coalition with is corsets so tight – enough to make the government faint. All agree at the Waikato DHB that basically the problem there is underfunding. No-one has wanted to run it since the last CEO got the heaveho in late 2017.

    https://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/388660/health-minister-replaces-waikato-dhb-board-with-commissioner

  12. Kia ora Newshub

    The Auckland mayor race is on

    Tesla put the elictric car's on the World stage. I agree that there needed to be a stimulating of the NZ elictric car's up take.

    Don't worry Graham I have put some good videos up that even a – – – – – – can get the true facts on climate change.

    I believe that technology changes have to happen to fight climate change but don't go trying to build huge carbon capture machines when we just need to plant Papatuanukue billion years old solution to that issue TREES.

    Its good to see that NZ business confidence is up on the official cash rate drop. I would buy a elictric car if I could afford one

    Ka kite ano

  13. Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.

    https://youtu.be/qqjVwAg5fK4

  14. We have to make sure the huge multi national companies are reined in from all there cheating OUR society of honesty and a happy healthy future for ALL this administration is just sucking as much money out of the world as they can possibly get before they get there ASS kicked out.

    California defies Trump to ban pesticide linked to childhood brain damage

    The EPA had moved to ban chlorpyrifos under Obama, but the Trump administration reversed that effort

    California is banning a widely used pesticide that has been linked to brain damage in children, a major victory for public health advocates who have long fought to outlaw the toxic chemical in the agricultural industry.

    The state ban on chlorpyrifos, a pesticide used on almonds, citrus, cotton, grapes, walnuts and other crops, follows years of research finding the chemical causes serious health effects in children, including impaired brain and neurological development. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had moved to ban the chemical under Barack Obama, but the Trump administration reversed that effort, rejecting the scientific conclusions of its own government experts

    Ka kite ano links below

    https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/may/08/california-pesticide-ban-chlorpyrifos-agriculture

    https://youtu.be/s4rGnCIU-w8

  15. Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.

    https://youtu.be/h4DFXUndvbw

    A uneducated tangata whenua O Atoearoa let's the Papatuanukue know the justice system of the PAPATUANUKUE are corrupt

  16. No nothing to look at here no laws broken YEA RIGHT what about the privacy laws they are in bed together all the people that work for clark and thompson are EX police WTF.

    Firm that spied on quake insurance complainants 'did not break law.

    Ka kite ano link below.

    https://i.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/112592552/firm-that-spied-on-quake-insurance-complainants-did-not-break-law

  17. Kia ora Newshub.

    Archie is a cool name for the new royal tama.

    I think that the main goal of MPI is to eradicate the bovine dease it's a mess the wealthy southland farmers created so they need to lump it.

    I don't think NZ has to stop dairy farming to meet our Paris agreement the study has not been conducted with NZ farming conditions we will have to farm organically tho. No comment on Cameron.

    There you go another bad issue with PEE O NO we don't have a huge PEE problem nothing bad going down in NZ YEA RIGHT.

    That's cool brain sergery to save one of Atoearoa taonga a kakapo chicks live saving operation Ka pai.

    That's bullshit alcohol consumption is dropping. A study commissioned by the alcohol industry is going to try and influence people to drink more of the shit.

    I had a excellent dog the manager could not get over how fast I got him working he was a hunter way.

    Ka kite ano

  18. Kia ora Te ao Maori News.

    Condolences to the SAS whanau.

    I will pridict that there will be no blame with the loss of the SAS person.

    Te wharehuia Milroy all the best to your whanau I'm sure they will miss you and will always remember your Mana Wairua.

    Looks like the police and Maori tv love publishing the positive phenomenon of Tangata whenua YEA RIGHT I know you people are to stupid to see the effects you have on OUR tangata Mauri. Ma te wa I will teach the Neanderthals a lesson Ka kite ano

  19. Kia ora The AM Show.

    https://youtu.be/vqnwqsJYyiU

    Mokopuna mahi

  20. Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.

    https://youtu.be/hT_nvWreIhg

    Had a epiphany yesterday Ma te wa Whanau

  21. Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.

    https://youtu.be/DgGr_n4fgyI

    Whanau we must teach all te Mokopuna te reo

  22. Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.

    https://youtu.be/bnVUHWCynig

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    Depictions of Islam in Western popular culture have rarely been positive, even before 9/11. Five years on from the mosque shootings, this is one of the cultural headwinds that the Muslim community has to battle against. Whatever messages of tolerance and inclusion are offered in daylight, much of our culture ...
    1 day ago
  • New Rail Operations Centre Promises Better Train Services
    Last week Transport Minster Simeon Brown and Mayor Wayne Brown opened the new Auckland Rail Operations Centre. The new train control centre will see teams from KiwiRail, Auckland Transport and Auckland One Rail working more closely together to improve train services across the city. The Auckland Rail Operations Centre in ...
    1 day ago
  • Bernard's six newsy things at 6.36am on Monday, March 18
    Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: Retiring former Labour Finance Minister Grant Robertson said in an exit interview with Q+A yesterday the Government can and should sustain more debt to invest in infrastructure for future generations. Elsewhere in the news in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy at 6:36am: Read more ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Geoffrey Miller: Wang Yi’s perfectly-timed, Aukus-themed visit to New Zealand
    Timing is everything. And from China’s perspective, this week’s visit by its foreign minister to New Zealand could be coming at just the right moment. The visit by Wang Yi to Wellington will be his first since 2017. Anniversaries are important to Beijing. It is more than just a happy ...
    Democracy ProjectBy Geoffrey Miller
    2 days ago
  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to March 25 and beyond
    TL;DR: The key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to March 18 include:China’s Foreign Minister visiting Wellington today;A post-cabinet news conference this afternoon; the resumption of Parliament on Tuesday for two weeks before Easter;retiring former Labour Finance Minister Grant Robertson gives his valedictory speech in Parliament; ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Bitter and angry; Winston First
    New Zealand First Leader Winston Peters’s state-of-the-nation speech on Sunday was really a state-of-Winston-First speech. He barely mentioned any of the Government’s key policies and could not even wholly endorse its signature income tax cuts. Instead, he rehearsed all of his complaints about the Ardern Government, including an extraordinary claim ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #11
    A listing of 35 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, March 10, 2024 thru Sat, March 16, 2024. Story of the week This week we'll give you a little glimpse into how we collect links to share and ...
    2 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #11
    A listing of 35 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, March 10, 2024 thru Sat, March 16, 2024. Story of the week This week we'll give you a little glimpse into how we collect links to share and ...
    2 days ago
  • Out of Touch.
    “I’ve been internalising a really complicated situation in my head.”When they kept telling us we should wait until we get to know him, were they taking the piss? Was it a case of, if you think this is bad, wait till you get to know the real Christopher, after the ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago
  • Bring out your Dad
    Happy fourth anniversary, Pandemic That Upended Bloody Everything. I have been observing it by enjoying my second bout of COVID. It’s 5.30 on Sunday morning and only now are lights turning back on for me.Allow me to copy and paste what I told reader Sara yesterday:Depleted, fogged and crappy. Resting, ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Bring out your Dad
    Happy fourth anniversary, Pandemic That Upended Bloody Everything. I have been observing it by enjoying my second bout of COVID. It’s 5.30 on Sunday morning and only now are lights turning back on for me.Allow me to copy and paste what I told reader Sara yesterday:Depleted, fogged and crappy. Resting, ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Bring out your Dad
    Happy fourth anniversary, Pandemic That Upended Bloody Everything. I have been observing it by enjoying my second bout of COVID. It’s 5.30 on Sunday morning and only now are lights turning back on for me.Allow me to copy and paste what I told reader Sara yesterday:Depleted, fogged and crappy. Resting, ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • The bewildering world of Chris Luxon – Guns for all, not no lunch for kids
    .“$10 and a target that bleeds” - Bleeding Targets for Under $10!.Thanks for reading Frankly Speaking ! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.This government appears hell-bent on either scrapping life-saving legislation or reintroducing things that - frustrated critics insist - will be dangerous and likely ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    3 days ago
  • Expert Opinion: Ageing Boomers, Laurie & Les, Talk Politics.
    It hardly strikes me as fair to criticise a government for doing exactly what it said it was going to do. For actually keeping its promises.”THUNDER WAS PLAYING TAG with lightning flashes amongst the distant peaks. Its rolling cadences interrupted by the here-I-come-here-I-go Doppler effect of the occasional passing car. ...
    3 days ago
  • Manufacturing The Truth.
    Subversive & Disruptive Technologies: Just as happened with that other great regulator of the masses, the Medieval Church, the advent of a new and hard-to-control technology – the Internet –  is weakening the ties that bind. Then, and now, those who enjoy a monopoly on the dissemination of lies, cannot and will ...
    3 days ago
  • A Powerful Sensation of Déjà Vu.
    Been Here Before: To find the precedents for what this Coalition Government is proposing, it is necessary to return to the “glory days” of Muldoonism.THE COALITION GOVERNMENT has celebrated its first 100 days in office by checking-off the last of its listed commitments. It remains, however, an angry government. It ...
    3 days ago
  • Can you guess where world attention is focussed (according to Greenpeace)? It’s focussed on an EPA...
    Bob Edlin writes –  And what is the world watching today…? The email newsletter from Associated Press which landed in our mailbox early this morning advised: In the news today: The father of a school shooter has been found guilty of involuntary manslaughter; prosecutors in Trump’s hush-money case ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago
  • Further integrity problems for the Greens in suspending MP Darleen Tana
    Bryce Edwards writes – Is another Green MP on their way out? And are the Greens severely tarnished by another integrity scandal? For the second time in three months, the Green Party has secretly suspended an MP over integrity issues. Mystery is surrounding the party’s decision to ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Jacqui Van Der Kaay: Greens’ transparency missing in action
    For the last few years, the Green Party has been the party that has managed to avoid the plague of multiple scandals that have beleaguered other political parties. It appears that their luck has run out with a second scandal which, unfortunately for them, coincided with Golraz Ghahraman, the focus ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • Bernard’s Dawn Chorus with six newsey things at 6:46am for Saturday, March 16
    TL;DR: The six newsey things that stood out to me as of 6:46am on Saturday, March 16.Andy Foster has accidentally allowed a Labour/Green amendment to cut road user chargers for plug-in hybrid vehicles, which the Government might accept; NZ Herald Thomas Coughlan Simeon Brown has rejected a plea from Westport ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • How Did FTX Crash?
    What seemed a booming success a couple of years ago has collapsed into fraud convictions.I looked at the crash of FTX (short for ‘Futures Exchange’) in November 2022 to see whether it would impact on the financial system as a whole. Fortunately there was barely a ripple, probably because it ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    4 days ago
  • Elections in Russia and Ukraine
    Anybody following the situation in Ukraine and Russia would probably have been amused by a recent Tweet on X NATO seems to be putting in an awful lot of effort to influence what is, at least according to them, a sham election in an autocracy.When do the Ukrainians go to ...
    4 days ago
  • Bernard’s six stack of substacks at 6pm on March 15
    TL;DR: Shaun Baker on Wynyard Quarter's transformation. Magdalene Taylor on the problem with smart phones. How private equity are now all over reinsurance. Dylan Cleaver on rugby and CTE. Emily Atkin on ‘Big Meat’ looking like ‘Big Oil’.Bernard’s six-stack of substacks at 6pm on March 15Photo by Jeppe Hove Jensen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • Buzz from the Beehive Finance Minister Nicola Willis had plenty to say when addressing the Auckland Business Chamber on the economic growth that (she tells us) is flagging more than we thought. But the government intends to put new life into it:  We want our country to be a ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago
  • National’s clean car tax advances
    The Transport and Infrastructure Committee has reported back on the Road User Charges (Light Electric RUC Vehicles) Amendment Bill, basicly rubberstamping it. While there was widespread support among submitters for the principle that EV and PHEV drivers should pay their fair share for the roads, they also overwhelmingly disagreed with ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago
  • Government funding bailouts
    Peter Dunne writes – This week’s government bailout – the fifth in the last eighteen months – of the financially troubled Ruapehu Alpine Lifts company would have pleased many in the central North Island ski industry. The government’s stated rationale for the $7 million funding was that it ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Two offenders, different treatments.
    See if you can spot the difference. An Iranian born female MP from a progressive party is accused of serial shoplifting. Her name is leaked to the media, which goes into a pack frenzy even before the Police launch an … Continue reading ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    4 days ago
  • Treaty references omitted
    Ele Ludemann writes  – The government is omitting general Treaty references from legislation : The growth of Treaty of Waitangi clauses in legislation caused so much worry that a special oversight group was set up by the last Government in a bid to get greater coherence in the public service on Treaty ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • The Ghahraman Conflict
    What was that judge thinking? Peter Williams writes –  That Golriz Ghahraman and District Court Judge Maria Pecotic were once lawyer colleagues is incontrovertible. There is published evidence that they took at least one case to the Court of Appeal together. There was a report on ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Bernard's Top 10 @ 10 'pick 'n' mix' for March 15
    TL;DR: My top 10 news and analysis links this morning include:Today’s must-read: Climate Scorpion – the sting is in the tail. Introducing planetary solvency. A paper via the University of Exeter’s Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.Local scoop: Kāinga Ora starts pulling out of its Auckland projects and selling land RNZ ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • The day Wellington up-zoned its future
    Wellington’s massively upzoned District Plan adds the opportunity for tens of thousands of new homes not just in the central city (such as these Webb St new builds) but also close to the CBD and public transport links. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: Wellington gave itself the chance of ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • Weekly Roundup 15-March-2024
    It’s Friday and we’re halfway through March Madness. Here’s some of the things that caught our attention this week. This Week in Greater Auckland On Monday Matt asked how we can get better event trains and an option for grade separating Morningside Dr. On Tuesday Matt looked into ...
    Greater AucklandBy Greater Auckland
    4 days ago
  • That Word.
    Something you might not know about me is that I’m quite a stubborn person. No, really. I don’t much care for criticism I think’s unfair or that I disagree with. Few of us do I suppose.Back when I was a drinker I’d sometimes respond defensively, even angrily. There are things ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago
  • The Hoon around the week to March 15
    Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The five things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the last week included:PM Christopher Luxon said the reversal of interest deductibility for landlords was done to help renters, who ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    5 days ago
  • Labour’s policy gap
    It was not so much the Labour Party but really the Chris Hipkins party yesterday at Labour’s caucus retreat in Martinborough. The former Prime Minister was more or less consistent on wealth tax, which he was at best equivocal about, and social insurance, which he was not willing to revisit. ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    5 days ago
  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #11 2024
    Open access notables A Glimpse into the Future: The 2023 Ocean Temperature and Sea Ice Extremes in the Context of Longer-Term Climate Change, Kuhlbrodt et al., Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society: In the year 2023, we have seen extraordinary extrema in high sea surface temperature (SST) in the North Atlantic and in ...
    5 days ago
  • Melissa remains mute on media matters but has something to say (at a sporting event) about economic ...
     Buzz from the Beehive   The text reproduced above appears on a page which records all the media statements and speeches posted on the government’s official website by Melissa Lee as Minister of Media and Communications and/or by Jenny Marcroft, her Parliamentary Under-secretary.  It can be quickly analysed ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    5 days ago
  • The return of Muldoon
    For forty years, Robert Muldoon has been a dirty word in our politics. His style of government was so repulsive and authoritarian that the backlash to it helped set and entrench our constitutional norms. His pig-headedness over forcing through Think Big eventually gave us the RMA, with its participation and ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    5 days ago
  • Will the rental tax cut improve life for renters or landlords?
    Bryce Edwards writes –  Is the new government reducing tax on rental properties to benefit landlords or to cut the cost of rents? That’s the big question this week, after Associate Finance Minister David Seymour announced on Sunday that the Government would be reversing the Labour Government’s removal ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Geoffrey Miller: What Saudi Arabia’s rapid changes mean for New Zealand
    Saudi Arabia is rarely far from the international spotlight. The war in Gaza has brought new scrutiny to Saudi plans to normalise relations with Israel, while the fifth anniversary of the controversial killing of Jamal Khashoggi was marked shortly before the war began on October 7. And as the home ...
    Democracy ProjectBy Geoffrey Miller
    5 days ago
  • Racism’s double standards
    Questions need to be asked on both sides of the world Peter Williams writes –   The NRL Judiciary hands down an eight week suspension to Sydney Roosters forward Spencer Leniu , an Auckland-born Samoan, after he calls Ezra Mam, Sydney-orn but of Aboriginal and Torres Strait ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • It’s not a tax break
    Ele Ludemann writes – Contrary to what many headlines and news stories are saying, residential landlords are not getting a tax break. The government is simply restoring to them the tax deductibility of interest they had until the previous government removed it. There is no logical reason ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • The Plastic Pig Collective and Chris' Imaginary Friends.
    I can't remember when it was goodMoments of happiness in bloomMaybe I just misunderstoodAll of the love we left behindWatching our flashbacks intertwineMemories I will never findIn spite of whatever you becomeForget that reckless thing turned onI think our lives have just begunI think our lives have just begunDoes anyone ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago
  • Who is responsible for young offenders?
    Michael Bassett writes – At first reading, a front-page story in the New Zealand Herald on 13 March was bizarre. A group of severely intellectually limited teenagers, with little understanding of the law, have been pleading to the Justice Select Committee not to pass a bill dealing with ram ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell on National’s fantasy trip to La La Landlord Land
    How much political capital is Christopher Luxon willing to burn through in order to deliver his $2.9 billion gift to landlords? Evidently, Luxon is: (a) unable to cost the policy accurately. As Anna Burns-Francis pointed out to him on Breakfast TV, the original ”rock solid” $2.1 billion cost he was ...
    5 days ago
  • Bernard's Top 10 @ 10 'pick 'n' mix' for March 14
    TL;DR: My top 10 news and analysis links this morning include:Today’s must-read: Jonathon Porritt calling bullshit in his own blog post on mainstream climate science as ‘The New Denialism’.Local scoop: The Wellington City Council’s list of proposed changes to the IHP recommendations to be debated later today was leaked this ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    5 days ago
  • No, Prime Minister, rents don’t rise or fall with landlords’ costs
    TL;DR: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said yesterday tenants should be grateful for the reinstatement of interest deductibility because landlords would pass on their lower tax costs in the form of lower rents. That would be true if landlords were regulated monopolies such as Transpower or Auckland Airport1, but they’re not, ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    5 days ago
  • Cartoons: ‘At least I didn’t make things awkward’
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Tom Toro Tom Toro is a cartoonist and author. He has published over 200 cartoons in The New Yorker since 2010. His cartoons appear in Playboy, the Paris Review, the New York Times, American Bystander, and elsewhere. Related: What 10 EV lovers ...
    5 days ago
  • Solving traffic congestion with Richard Prebble
    The business section of the NZ Herald is full of opinion. Among the more opinionated of all is the ex-Minister of Transport, ex-Minister of Railways, ex MP for Auckland Central (1975-93, Labour), Wellington Central (1996-99, ACT, then list-2005), ex-leader of the ACT Party, uncle to actor Antonia, the veritable granddaddy ...
    Greater AucklandBy Patrick Reynolds
    5 days ago
  • I Think I'm Done Flying Boeing
    Hi,Just quickly — I’m blown away by the stories you’ve shared with me over the last week since I put out the ‘Gary’ podcast, where I told you about the time my friend’s flatmate killed the neighbour.And you keep telling me stories — in the comments section, and in my ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    6 days ago
  • Invoking Aristotle: Of Rings of Power, Stones, and Ships
    The first season of Rings of Power was not awful. It was thoroughly underwhelming, yes, and left a lingering sense of disappointment, but it was more expensive mediocrity than catastrophe. I wrote at length about the series as it came out (see the Review section of the blog, and go ...
    6 days ago
  • Van Velden brings free-market approach to changing labour laws – but her colleagues stick to distr...
    Buzz from the Beehive Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden told Auckland Business Chamber members they were the first audience to hear her priorities as a minister in a government committed to cutting red tape and regulations. She brandished her liberalising credentials, saying Flexible labour markets are the ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago
  • Why Newshub failed
    Chris Trotter writes – TO UNDERSTAND WHY NEWSHUB FAILED, it is necessary to understand how TVNZ changed. Up until 1989, the state broadcaster had been funded by a broadcasting licence fee, collected from every citizen in possession of a television set, supplemented by a relatively modest (compared ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • Māori Party on the warpath against landlords and seabed miners – let’s see if mystical creature...
    Bob Edlin writes  –  The Māori Party has been busy issuing a mix of warnings and threats as its expresses its opposition to interest deductibility for landlords and the plans of seabed miners. It remains to be seen whether they  follow the example of indigenous litigants in Australia, ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago

  • Government moves to quickly ratify the NZ-EU FTA
    "The Government is moving quickly to realise an additional $46 million in tariff savings in the EU market this season for Kiwi exporters,” Minister for Trade and Agriculture, Todd McClay says. Parliament is set, this week, to complete the final legislative processes required to bring the New Zealand – European ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 hours ago
  • Positive progress for social worker workforce
    New Zealand’s social workers are qualified, experienced, and more representative of the communities they serve, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “I want to acknowledge and applaud New Zealand’s social workers for the hard work they do, providing invaluable support for our most vulnerable. “To coincide with World ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    8 hours ago
  • Minister confirms reduced RUC rate for PHEVs
    Cabinet has agreed to a reduced road user charge (RUC) rate for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. Owners of PHEVs will be eligible for a reduced rate of $38 per 1,000km once all light electric vehicles (EVs) move into the RUC system from 1 April.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    10 hours ago
  • Trade access to overseas markets creates jobs
    Minister of Agriculture and Trade, Todd McClay, says that today’s opening of Riverland Foods manufacturing plant in Christchurch is a great example of how trade access to overseas markets creates jobs in New Zealand.  Speaking at the official opening of this state-of-the-art pet food factory the Minister noted that exports ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    10 hours ago
  • NZ and Chinese Foreign Ministers hold official talks
    Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Wellington today. “It was a pleasure to host Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his first official visit to New Zealand since 2017. Our discussions were wide-ranging and enabled engagement on many facets of New Zealand’s relationship with China, including trade, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    24 hours ago
  • Kāinga Ora instructed to end Sustaining Tenancies
    Kāinga Ora – Homes & Communities has been instructed to end the Sustaining Tenancies Framework and take stronger measures against persistent antisocial behaviour by tenants, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “Earlier today Finance Minister Nicola Willis and I sent an interim Letter of Expectations to the Board of Kāinga Ora. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Speech to Auckland Business Chamber: Growth is the answer
    Tēna koutou katoa. Greetings everyone. Thank you to the Auckland Chamber of Commerce and the Honourable Simon Bridges for hosting this address today. I acknowledge the business leaders in this room, the leaders and governors, the employers, the entrepreneurs, the investors, and the wealth creators. The coalition Government shares your ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Singapore rounds out regional trip
    Minister Winston Peters completed the final leg of his visit to South and South East Asia in Singapore today, where he focused on enhancing one of New Zealand’s indispensable strategic partnerships.      “Singapore is our most important defence partner in South East Asia, our fourth-largest trading partner and a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Minister van Velden represents New Zealand at International Democracy Summit
    Minister of Internal Affairs and Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon. Brooke van Velden, will travel to the Republic of Korea to represent New Zealand at the Third Summit for Democracy on 18 March. The summit, hosted by the Republic of Korea, was first convened by the United States in 2021, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Insurance Council of NZ Speech, 7 March 2024, Auckland
    ICNZ Speech 7 March 2024, Auckland  Acknowledgements and opening  Mōrena, ngā mihi nui. Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Nor Whanganui aho.  Good morning, it’s a privilege to be here to open the ICNZ annual conference, thank you to Mark for the Mihi Whakatau  My thanks to Tim Grafton for inviting me ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Five-year anniversary of Christchurch terror attacks
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Lead Coordination Minister Judith Collins have expressed their deepest sympathy on the five-year anniversary of the Christchurch terror attacks. “March 15, 2019, was a day when families, communities and the country came together both in sorrow and solidarity,” Mr Luxon says.  “Today we pay our respects to the 51 shuhada ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Speech for Financial Advice NZ Conference 5 March 2024
    Speech for Financial Advice NZ Conference 5 March 2024  Acknowledgements and opening  Morena, Nga Mihi Nui.  Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Nor Whanganui aho. Thanks Nate for your Mihi Whakatau  Good morning. It’s a pleasure to formally open your conference this morning. What a lovely day in Wellington, What a great ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Early visit to Indonesia strengthens ties
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters held discussions in Jakarta today about the future of relations between New Zealand and South East Asia’s most populous country.   “We are in Jakarta so early in our new government’s term to reflect the huge importance we place on our relationship with Indonesia and South ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • China Foreign Minister to visit
    Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters has announced that the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi, will visit New Zealand next week.  “We look forward to re-engaging with Foreign Minister Wang Yi and discussing the full breadth of the bilateral relationship, which is one of New Zealand’s ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Minister opens new Auckland Rail Operations Centre
    Transport Minister Simeon Brown has today opened the new Auckland Rail Operations Centre, which will bring together KiwiRail, Auckland Transport, and Auckland One Rail to improve service reliability for Aucklanders. “The recent train disruptions in Auckland have highlighted how important it is KiwiRail and Auckland’s rail agencies work together to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Celebrating 10 years of Crankworx Rotorua
    The Government is proud to support the 10th edition of Crankworx Rotorua as the Crankworx World Tour returns to Rotorua from 16-24 March 2024, says Minister for Economic Development Melissa Lee.  “Over the past 10 years as Crankworx Rotorua has grown, so too have the economic and social benefits that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government delivering on tax commitments
    Legislation implementing coalition Government tax commitments and addressing long-standing tax anomalies will be progressed in Parliament next week, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The legislation is contained in an Amendment Paper to the Taxation (Annual Rates for 2023–24, Multinational Tax, and Remedial Matters) Bill issued today.  “The Amendment Paper represents ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Significant Natural Areas requirement to be suspended
    Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard has today announced that the Government has agreed to suspend the requirement for councils to comply with the Significant Natural Areas (SNA) provisions of the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity for three years, while it replaces the Resource Management Act (RMA).“As it stands, SNAs ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government classifies drought conditions in Top of the South as medium-scale adverse event
    Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has classified the drought conditions in the Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson districts as a medium-scale adverse event, acknowledging the challenging conditions facing farmers and growers in the district. “Parts of Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson districts are in the grip of an intense dry spell. I know ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government partnership to tackle $332m facial eczema problem
    The Government is helping farmers eradicate the significant impact of facial eczema (FE) in pastoral animals, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced.  “A $20 million partnership jointly funded by Beef + Lamb NZ, the Government, and the primary sector will save farmers an estimated NZD$332 million per year, and aims to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • NZ, India chart path to enhanced relationship
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has completed a successful visit to India, saying it was an important step in taking the relationship between the two countries to the next level.   “We have laid a strong foundation for the Coalition Government’s priority of enhancing New Zealand-India relations to generate significant future benefit for both countries,” says Mr Peters, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Ruapehu Alpine Lifts bailout the last, say Ministers
    Cabinet has agreed to provide $7 million to ensure the 2024 ski season can go ahead on the Whakapapa ski field in the central North Island but has told the operator Ruapehu Alpine Lifts it is the last financial support it will receive from taxpayers. Cabinet also agreed to provide ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Govt takes action to drive better cancer services
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says the launch of a new mobile breast screening unit in Counties Manukau reinforces the coalition Government’s commitment to drive better cancer services for all New Zealanders. Speaking at the launch of the new mobile clinic, Dr Reti says it’s a great example of taking ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Govt takes action to drive better cancer services
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says the launch of a new mobile breast screening unit in Counties Manukau reinforces the coalition Government’s commitment to drive better cancer services for all New Zealanders. Speaking at the launch of the new mobile clinic, Dr Reti says it’s a great example of taking ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Work begins on SH29 upgrades near Tauriko
    Unlocking economic growth and land for housing are critical elements of the Government’s plan for our transport network, and planned upgrades to State Highway 29 (SH29) near Tauriko will deliver strongly on those priorities, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The SH29 upgrades near Tauriko will improve safety at the intersections ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Work begins on SH29 upgrades near Tauriko
    Unlocking economic growth and land for housing are critical elements of the Government’s plan for our transport network, and planned upgrades to State Highway 29 (SH29) near Tauriko will deliver strongly on those priorities, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The SH29 upgrades near Tauriko will improve safety at the intersections ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Fresh produce price drop welcome
    Lower fruit and vegetable prices are welcome news for New Zealanders who have been doing it tough at the supermarket, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. Stats NZ reported today the price of fruit and vegetables has dropped 9.3 percent in the 12 months to February 2024.  “Lower fruit and vege ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Statement to the 68th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women
    Tēnā koutou katoa and greetings to you all.  Chair, I am honoured to address the sixty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women. I acknowledge the many crises impacting the rights of women and girls. Heightened global tensions, war, climate related and humanitarian disasters, and price inflation all ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Speech to the 68th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68)
    Tēnā koutou katoa and greetings to you all.  Chair, I am honoured to address the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. I acknowledge the many crises impacting the rights of women and girls. Heightened global tensions, war, climate related and humanitarian disasters, and price inflation all ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Government backs rural led catchment projects
    The coalition Government is supporting farmers to enhance land management practices by investing $3.3 million in locally led catchment groups, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced. “Farmers and growers deliver significant prosperity for New Zealand and it’s vital their ongoing efforts to improve land management practices and water quality are supported,” ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Speech to Auckland Business Chamber
    Good evening everyone and thank you for that lovely introduction.   Thank you also to the Honourable Simon Bridges for the invitation to address your members. Since being sworn in, this coalition Government has hit the ground running with our 100-day plan, delivering the changes that New Zealanders expect of us. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Commission’s advice on ETS settings tabled
    Recommendations from the Climate Change Commission for New Zealand on the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) auction and unit limit settings for the next five years have been tabled in Parliament, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. “The Commission provides advice on the ETS annually. This is the third time the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Government lowering building costs
    The coalition Government is beginning its fight to lower building costs and reduce red tape by exempting minor building work from paying the building levy, says Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk. “Currently, any building project worth $20,444 including GST or more is subject to the building levy which is ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Trustee tax change welcomed
    Proposed changes to tax legislation to prevent the over-taxation of low-earning trusts are welcome, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The changes have been recommended by Parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Committee following consideration of submissions on the Taxation (Annual Rates for 2023–24, Multinational Tax, and Remedial Matters) Bill. “One of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Minister’s Ramadan message
    Assalaamu alaikum. السَّلَام عليكم In light of the holy month of Ramadan, I want to extend my warmest wishes to our Muslim community in New Zealand. Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, renewed devotion, perseverance, generosity, and forgiveness.  It’s a time to strengthen our bonds and appreciate the diversity ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Minister appoints new NZTA Chair
    Former Transport Minister and CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber Hon Simon Bridges has been appointed as the new Board Chair of the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) for a three-year term, Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced today. “Simon brings extensive experience and knowledge in transport policy and governance to the role. He will ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Speech to Life Sciences Summit
    Good morning all, it is a pleasure to be here as Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology.  It is fantastic to see how connected and collaborative the life science and biotechnology industry is here in New Zealand. I would like to thank BioTechNZ and NZTech for the invitation to address ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Progress continues apace on water storage
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says he is looking forward to the day when three key water projects in Northland are up and running, unlocking the full potential of land in the region. Mr Jones attended a community event at the site of the Otawere reservoir near Kerikeri on Friday. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Government agrees to restore interest deductions
    Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has today announced that the Government has agreed to restore deductibility for mortgage interest on residential investment properties. “Help is on the way for landlords and renters alike. The Government’s restoration of interest deductibility will ease pressure on rents and simplify the tax code,” says ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Minister to attend World Anti-Doping Agency Symposium
    Sport and Recreation Minister Chris Bishop will travel to Switzerland today to attend an Executive Committee meeting and Symposium of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Mr Bishop will then travel on to London where he will attend a series of meetings in his capacity as Infrastructure Minister. “New Zealanders believe ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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