From debate last night, Bill (discussing pensions with younger generations paying for older etc) “I raised this generation”. Yes…let’s keep in mind who is to blame.
He applauded recent strategies such as Housing First, but he said not enough was being done to address the issues that led to people being in such vulnerable situations.
“They aren’t going to stop people before they become homeless. It’s ameliorative and helps those already homeless.”
He said the current “renter economy” meant wealth amassed with those who already had it, while those at the other end struggled to make ends meet or were reliant on benefits.
“This wealth concentration drives homelessness. We can’t just understand the actions of homeless people, but we also have to study people who are more affluent.
“I think we’ve got to say, who does the economy work for?
Bill Rosenberg: A brief history of labour’s share of income in New Zealand 1939-2016
Iain Middleton:: Basic Income Calculator
Lowell Manning and Michael Kane: Assessing the impact of basic income on society
Annie Newman and Catriona MacLennan: Living Wage Movement
(MacClennan was not there, though some of her ideas were presented).
There were different views on whether a UBI was the solution. Most seemed for it. But there were some concerns that it would be an individualistic solution, would not be a workable solution within a capitalist economy, and/or would not be Nat-proof (ie the Nats would undermine it when in government.
I think it was Ian Middleton who was pretty scathing about Gareth Morgan’s version of the UBI, which isn’t really one – set too low; takes from superannuitants to give to younger people, etc.
The UBI speakers said that special needs benefits would not be touched by UBI eg disability and sickness benefits would still exist as well as the UBI.
That was a stand out performance from Jacinda last night, looking forward to tonights debate, James has been fantastic so far, he’s going to be epic tonight.
On Radio just now the commentator said, “Winston sees his party as part of the 3 big parties, rather than part of the 4 small parties.” Might have a point there.
Arguably, neoliberalism has been causing loads of (mainly mental, in the first instance) health issues and thus all neoliberals should be forced to into rehab. For the many, not just the few!
Would be helpful for many to have properly funded rehab available out there, especially for the P addicts and alcoholics
Pretty sure cannabis addiction is a small problem compared to the above, we all know of people who enjoy a joint just like some enjoy a drink, doesn’t make them an addict, but in the eyes of national the joint makes them a criminal. Maybe because they don’t collect a tax revenue off the growers/sellers, i’d say that’s the bigger issue.
“Pretty sure cannabis addiction is a small problem compared to the above, we all know of people who enjoy a joint just like some enjoy a drink, doesn’t make them an addict”
Right. But will it result in them being forced into rehab if caught?
Under a Labour Government it would still be a criminal offence.
rubbish – it is all nonsense because the situation now that will propagate the future options is constantly changing and therefore constantly needing to be refreshed to stay relevant.
the right to know line is ONLY used for some things and as an attack line against others and generally a right wing meme – you aren’t lowering the bar chair – you are the bar.
While changes can eventuate, thus new responses may be required, it’s no excuse for not informing voters of their current plans.
Therefore, this rubbish you’re spouting is you simply making excuses for your lowering of the bar.
The right to know applies to all parties, hence it’s not an attack line used solely from the right. It’s an attack line (with good merit) used against those that fail to front up with the details, thus are rightly in the firing line.
Nobody can say for sure, Marty. But that doesn’t stop us from making plans. Nor is it an excuse for preventing us from knowing what our political leaders plan to do.
the answer is no…so heres one for you….has Labour at any point said there will be enforced rehab for everyone caught with cannabis?….and when you answer that one heres the follow up….why then do you feel compelled to ask such a ridiculous question?
I am also concerned because I haven’t heard Jacinda say they won’t deport people to the FEMA camps hidden in the US – why hasn’t she said this won’t happen? Un-nice forces are at work here methinks. Who is hiding what from whom – that is the question!!!
I showed you the courtesy of answering your questions, yet you failed to answer mine. Why is that, Pat?
As for your last question. National have touted a form of forced rehab for beneficiaries, but I doubt they will go as far as you asked. Are you thinking of voting for them, Pat?
as there has been no suggestion of a blanket rehab (except your own) under a health focused (as opposed to a criminal justice) cannabis policy i would safely state that Labours policy would not go so far as you suggest.
Am i thinking of voting for National?…”….i don’t want to go among mad people”
if you are genuinely concerned that the next government will operate in a less open and ethical way than the previous I suggest you then address your questions to your local Labour Party representative.
It would be wonderful if when people sought helped that it was there for them, doesn’t seem to be the case at present. Where does an addict go when they need help at the moment? Services are now stretched to breaking point, tragically suicide seems to be a preferred choice to deal with it.
Currently, it appears to be easier to lock people up in jail, lawyers are making $$$$ from that, but the courts and prisons are bursting at the seams.
Police now say they deal with minor cannabis matters at their descretion, maybe it’s because this year they couldn’t even afford to fly the choppers around our region, beautiful climate here js.
Cannabis is costing us tax payers huge ammounts of $$$, decriminalising it and offering people help if they are addicted would cost so much less but leaving the cost out of it, decriminalisation makes so much more sense.
Here’s an idea, binding citizens referendum.
Labour are well aware of the cannabis debate and recognise something needs to change, so do the Greens. That’s another reason I’m voting for change, so the oldies next door don’t have to go to the tinny house and risk being arrested to self medicate for cancer and pain because they want an alternative to highly addictive opiates.
Interesting how quick your position changed. From belonging in Joyce’s hole, to being ridiculous and now you’re suggesting I direct it to my local Labour Party representative.
Wonder if my local will have your initial response?
Nevertheless, with voting beginning in three days, don’t you think the onus should be on the party to put the relevant info out and into the public domain. For example, on their website?
All Jacinda has said is that it should be in Health.
At some time later when the issue rises, there will be a Bill to rationalise the problems you raise. Maybe there will be a move to decriminalise because there is a mood for change but as you know National has avoided creating change but consolidated innovations produced by Labour over many decades.
“All Jacinda has said is that it should be in Health.”
No, she has gone further than that. The use of rehab has been mentioned.
The public mood for change is already there, it’s Labour that oppose decriminalisation, although they’re apparently open to making it a conscience vote. But voting on it is not a priority.
Therefore, despite the stardust generating from Jacinda, voters are still in the dark when it comes to knowing how rehab will work and who will be impacted.
I find it annoying when parties say that Cannabis reform is not a priority. They minimise it like it is only a niche thing for a couple of pot heads who want to smoke.
In reality it is a massive deal for our prisons, poor, sick, and economy.
We can reduce our prison populations by reducing those who are sent to jail not just for use but for criminal activity that surrounds the black market. Those in lower socio economic area’s no longer become the victims and perpetrators of said crimes.
As others have said those who wish to use Cannabis to self medicate will have access without becoming criminals.
Finally a legal industry not only allows for taxation but allows for actual controls to be set up. Just like alcohol or smokes you can set age limits and licensing limits on how it is sold and grown. Quality standards can be set to ensure there is no contamination or spiking.
Cannabis is not a small little niche topic that can be discussed at a later date when it becomes important. It is important now. Whilst I think the argument of forced rehab is facile I would like to see some more fleshed out think from Labour in this. Why the hell are they so scared the numbers are in favour of reform.
WOW you are quoting direct insult lines from bill english chair as in ‘stardust’
I’m sick of gnat spin merchants pretending to be left – that is the d of dirty politics imo I wish we could just stick to the issues and not have the dirty spin and attempts at creating murk.
My past history has no relevance what so ever on the position Labour has decided to take in this matter. Nor does it have any relevance on why Labour are holding back on the details.
notice “i never said I did” is not the same as “I never did” but this appears to be a major for you chair – as a lifelong left voter are you now thinking seriously of changing your vote to the gnats because of their honesty compared to Labour on this essential issue?
My concern is for the casual user, and how will this impact them? The potential for offshore and local investors profiteering and the overall effectiveness of forced rehab.
And what of those using it for health reasons? Is raw cannabis going to be legalised for medical use or is Labour only talking about cannabis based products?
I’m sure everyone is greatful for your concern of the day.
I, personally, am eagerly anticipating whatever will be your concern about Lab/Grn this evening, and will barely be able to sleep for contemplation of what might be your sudden concern of tomorrow morning.
Concern, for you, seems to be an infinitely renewable resource. We are all blessed that you shower it upon us in such copious volumes (and about such a wide variety of topics), warm and with that unmistakable “fresh from the bladder” odour.
lol sure we believe you chair – FORCED REHAB – figment of your own mind. the rest of your gnat concern tr0ll lines are equally invalid – good for a laugh though ta chair LOL
How will they know the casual user to force them to rehab? Now real fear would be workplace testing for E and coke abd the like. Watch the white monied classes squeal about civil rights then
See McFlock 4.6 below. The fact that you haven’t been given every little detail about a “policy” that was basically an answer to a question doesn’t entitle you to start fantasising evil intent on the part of the person who answered the question.
Rubbish. I asked you a couple of questions. And I see you didn’t answer them.
But you answering a question (in fact, it was more of a correction on your part) gives you the right to imply (with evil intent) that I’m paranoid? Piss off.
More punctilious idiocy from a concern troll who has just wasted a huge amount of screen-space. Please go conservationist about screen-space, Mr so-called Chairman.
Jacinda wants to make it a health issue and brought up the use of rehab instead of people going to jail.
Therefore, I was questioning if it was going to be forced rehab. As in, will cannabis users going before the courts now face being sentenced to rehab?
It’s a logical assumption (not paranoia) going off the limited details given. And another example of why Labour need to provide more details. Without them (details) people tend to suspect the worse and it allows the opposition to reinforce that perception by filling in the blanks with their worse speculation.
The flaw in your correction is, I’m not the opposition. I’m from the left.
Moreover, I’m not filling in the blanks, I’m merely asking genuine questions, which makes your (and a few others on here) antics look even worse to outsiders reading this thread.
You’re not helping Labour, you (and a few others on here) just make them look more dodgy.
I announce I will buy a car.
A “logical assumption” would be that I could be considering vehicular murder.
And yet if that’s the main question you have about my purchasing decision you’d still be either paranoid or shitstirring.
Treating something as a health issue is as close to “forced rehab” as buying a car is to vehicular murder.
Your “concern” (lol) rests on the idea that coercion and detention needs to be replaced by more coercion and detention. This is the antithesis of successful addiction rehabilitation.
Decriminalisation means at worst a fine and confiscation for users (not dealers). So, you take the info from the ticket and offer them free addiction services if they think they’re doing too much. Hell, the cop can just give them a leaflet, and it would still be a more effective health intervention than your wet dream of “forced rehab”.
fuck, you can put that one by the “$11.7 Billion” hole Joyce dug himself.
Piss off. I’m merely asking questions. The use of rehab instead of people going to jail does imply it could be forced rehab. Hence, I’m asking, not stating it as fact.
Labour could easily put this concern to bed by posting some details on their website, yet they haven’t. Why is that? It makes it look as if they have something to hide.
And why would they want to give voters that perception if they were on the up and up?
It doesn’t add up. It suggests they are either incompetent or they are hiding something.
Pity the data doesn’t include just cannabis users. All illegal drug users lumped together.English reckoned there were just 7 in prison for cannabis use. Though an annual figure would help. Can English be fact checked?
Hosking says he never reads comment about him or his valuable work. When being confronted with a 60,000 poll to remove him from the debate, and TVNZ talk of modifying his place on Seven, it may have knocked him for a six. Ego crash?
And the First Leaders Debate was regarded as pretty dull, so ego again?
Whilst the election process is well underway.
I am concerned with all the “promises” to build houses: be they Kiwibuild 10k pa or Bill’s govt building 30k pa. I have made a few comments regarding the difficulty that the building industry is having, and that there is severe pressure currently on cash flows caused by our banks reducing credit facilities. Here is another example of this with Martin Dunn on ZB yesterday (to save time go to about the 12 minute mark), banks are repatriating money back to Melbourne.
The next 3 year term is IMO not going to be all clear sailing especially within the building industry. http://120.138.20.16/WeekOnDemand/ZB/auckland/2017.09.07-11.15.00-S.mp3 http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/91230001/warning-that-nz-is-heading-for-peak-construction-as-banks-tighten-purse-strings
So no matter who wins the power still resides with the banks. The same banks that caused the building slump in 07-08.
‘..the power still resides with the banks’
Only because the successive governments have handed the role of credit creation to the banks.
So actually the power resides with the government.
Number of Code of compliance certs issued should be IMO the number quoted, as that conveys what has been completed and is ready for occupation.
In 2016 it was estimated that
“This year was expected to top the 13,500 homes mark – the estimated level needed for the next three decades if the city is to address its shortage.
But the report suggests a little less than 12,000 will be built. http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/309675/fewer-houses-to-be-built-in-auckland-than-predicted
YET …
“The numbers being completed are far less than those consented. Statistics from Auckland Council show that last year 7200 houses were built and 6520 and 5550 were completed for year end 2015 and 2014 respectively,” she said.” http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11853702
So we estimated 13,500, but experts think 12,000 and Code of Compliances issued were …. 7,200. Just as well that there is NO housing crisis !! as we under built 6,300 homes in Auckland alone
The level of deception from this fishing club spokesman is something to behold. I certainly have seen dolphins south of Moeraki at places like porpoise bay (where the name is a bit of a hint):
the “fast vessel” would focus its patrol searching for nets set illegally by recreational fishers and commercial operations between Te Waewae Bay and Canterbury Bight… Setting a net within 7.4km of the coast was illegal, as was using trawl nets within 3.7km of the coast… At the launch yesterday, Mr Meikle said the “passionate” volunteer crew would remove the nets of recreational fishers from waters, if set illegally.
If a commercial operation was acting illegally, the volunteers would alert the Ministry of Primary Industries, he said.
Green Island Fishing Club secretary Steve Bennett, of Brighton, said… Recreational fishers set nets in harbours, estuaries and rivers and did not set nets in the sea because it was too dangerous to travel beyond 7.4km, he said… had never seen, or heard of a Hector’s dolphins ever being south of Moeraki.
Mr Meikle, of Dunedin, said Hector’s dolphins lived along the coastline, including a pod of 200 at Te Waewae Bay, 12 at Oreti Beach, about 50 in the Catlins and 42 between Dunedin and Oamaru, including a pod of 21 at Blueskin Bay.
Election billboards: why do so few of them give any reason to vote for the candidate being touted? My reaction to anything that just says “Vote for Bloggs” is “why the fuck should I when you can’t even be bothered to tell me why?”
Except for Winnie’s “Had enough?”. Now that you mention it Winnie, why yes, I have had enough of your smug smirk.
I have so wanted to adjust his billboard near our abode – maybe ‘bad enough’ some adjustment to the ‘had’ but sadly those days are over for me and the youf can’t be bothered or so it seems.
This will show my age, but Bill English’s reference to Jacinda Ardern as ‘stardust’ recalls Joni Mitchell and her version of “Woodstock”.
It was a song of aspiration, the need and desire for change. I would adopt it, changing the intended denigration from the Prime Minister into a positive.
“Got to get back to the land and set my soul free……..
“And I feel myself a cog in something turning………
“By the time we got to Woodstock
We were half a million strong
And everywhere was a song and a celebration
“We are stardust, we are golden
We are caught in the devils bargain
And we got to get ourselves back to the garden.”
Some real resonance here for this “child of God” as again the generations change.
The people in Epsom must be very confused right now as their main party tanks. Having had their hand held in the ballot box for the last several elections there doesn’t seem to be any orders coming from National Party HQ in the face of impending disaster for National.
Perhaps we’ll see the electorate vote there begin to resemble the real world where ACT has 0.1% support for their lunatic policies.
Yes, we’d get rid of the prick!
If only everyone in that electorate who doesn’t like Act would vote National for the electorate mp then it would happen. No more Rimmer. Yay.
It would mean the National Party would have to stop pretending extreme policies like charter schools and gutting the RMA were theirs, rather than using Seymour as their stalking horse.
Which would mean they’d lose a whole heap of ‘middle New Zealand ‘ voters.
maybe. currently he is not a overhang and sucks Nats party vote down having missed the chance to drag a further mp… …the bald one… up to parliament but also getting to many votes to get hangover. only the Maori party got hangover.
The left don’t, well Anderson maybe… …do hangovers. The Maori party cares about people’s second home not getting new taxes, hardly left wing reasoning.
If you want hangover, and end slipping back on the list, party vote Green the only pure MMP party party.
Yep. The problem is so do many living outside Epsom who make a over vote which harms National. National either want just Seymour voters in Epson or lots more ACT voters nationally.
– Mike Hosking on his knees in front of toilet bowl dry heaving uncontrollably in an unshakeable cold sweat as the reality of polling kicks in and he realises that Steven Joyce’s dirty tricks won’t save his National government
– Middle aged man discovers that trying to starve himself and subsist largely on mildly warm lemon water in order to maintain his figure is not a good idea
A dying man was discharged to a bus stop wearing pyjamas because Christchurch Hospital staff felt he was a “nuisance” and “faking” his illness.
Neil David Jones, 47, then lay on the footpath for six hours while members of the public tried to get doctors to help him. He was eventually trespassed from the hospital and taken to a shelter, where he vomited blood.
An ambulance took him back to hospital, where he died two days later.
A new book by George Monbiot looks to offers solutions and alternatives to neoliberalism.
‘What does the good life—and the good society—look like in the twenty-first century?
A toxic ideology rules the world – of extreme competition and individualism. It misrepresents human nature, destroying hope and common purpose. Only a positive vision can replace it, a new story that re-engages people in politics and lights a path to a better world.
George Monbiot shows how new findings in psychology, neuroscience and evolutionary biology cast human nature in a radically different light: as the supreme altruists and cooperators. He shows how we can build on these findings to create a new politics: a “politics of belonging.” Both democracy and economic life can be radically reorganized from the bottom up, enabling us to take back control and overthrow the forces that have thwarted our ambitions for a better society.
Urgent, and passionate, Out of the Wreckage provides the hope and clarity required to change the world.’
Hey there Ed, was unable to ring in… but it would have been…
Why was Barclay recording Glenis, and don’t say you don’t know Bill, because you do, and so do I, and English, who was female who was a senior level politician at the time involved, and don’t claim the confidentiality agreement, because you said you had not signed one.
Yeah that’s what I would have asked.
Actually there were two callers who phoned in with Barclay questions, and he LIED. Someone asked how much hush money was paid to Glenis, English claimed he did not know, Sanso even clarified with him that he didn’t know, and he said again he did not know the amount, that is an outright bold faced lie.
I agree, he permanently looks grumpy and non-positive. I don’t know if this is his usual demeanour but he needs to lighten up – he should be as the polls are looking pretty good for Labour. It doesn’t help that Paula Benefit carries on like a chipmunk on steroids and comes across like a smug know it all – she grates like hell so between the two of them – yes they need to be spoken to or removed from the AM Show.
Big upps for the Jacinda effect that is empowering women in NZ to fight for there equal rights
Now we need the most popular Lady in the World to help us fight for OUR WORLD.!!!!!!!!
Nice one Eco maori. Jacinda is empowering women everywhere – not just those in her own age group. She is also appealing to older women like myself who were victims of so much misogyny and abuse in our younger days. We don’t want to see the new generations of women put through the same hoops.
Small sample size with consequent MOE however that over 65 favourability rating is very surprising……though in total the thrust of the results are buoyant for Labour
yes, well even so….my direct experience is that over 65s haven’t been impressed with rising living costs, esp health., and concern for offspring(naturally)…and much of the antipathy to Labour was around presentation….is it perhaps JAs relative youth?
lol…that may be so of some (few) ….but it is well to remember that the super-annuitants of today are ourselves in 10,20 or whatever years time….will our voting predilections reduce to such a basic formula?
Hope fully for the better Scott for our cause. I’m old enough to no what life was like before national started there circus and life was much better for everyone.
And It’s awesome that we have social media to assists us in our fight to oust national and there spinning shit just like there manama nups whom insult me every day and think I can not see trough there dum ass tack ticks
He’s run out of roles to speak from: now he’s no longer Prime minister or National Party Leader, anything he says would be in his role as “John Key, human being”. And he’s spent so long telling people what they want to hear from those different roles, he’s terrified of trying to form an opinion of his own. Hasn’t had one since the ’81 tour.
McFlock just heard at 3.55pm those figure’s when thee panel was talking about combinations of coalitions.
Then Jim Mora had to correct them saying National had no options.
Open access notablesIce acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment:In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
Mr Bombastic:Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder.In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére SosouMarket gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
Buzz from the Beehive Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ...
Morning in London Mother hugs beloved daughter outside the converted shoe factory in which she is living.Afternoon in London Travelling writer takes himself and his wrist down to A&E, just to be sure. Read more ...
Mike Grimshaw writes – The recent announcement of the University Advisory Group, chaired by Sir Peter Gluckman, makes very clear where the Government’s focus and priorities lie. The remit of the Advisory Group is that Group members will consider challenges and opportunities for improvement in the university sector including: ...
Eric Crampton writes – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand desperately wants to find reasons to have workstreams in climate change. It makes little sense. They’ve run another stress test on the banks looking to see if they could find a prudential regulation case. They couldn’t. They ...
Rob MacCullough writes – Pundits from the left and the right are arguing that National’s Fast Track Bill that is designed to speed up infrastructure decisions could end up becoming mired in a cesspool of corruption. Political commentator ...
Looking at the headlines this morning it’s hard to feel anything other than pessimistic about the future of humanity.Note that I’m not speaking about the future of mankind, but the survival of our humanity. The values that we believe in seem to be ebbing away, by the day.Perhaps every generation ...
Swabbing mixed breed baby chicks to test for avian influenzaUh oh. Bird flu – often deadly to humans – is not only being transmitted from infected birds to dairy cows, but is now travelling between dairy cows. As of last Friday, Bloomberg News reports, there were 32 American dairy herds ...
On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough. Greenpeace says ...
I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
“You talking about me?”The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
Roger Partridge writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
Our two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...
Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...
It appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...
The Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...
The Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...
Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...
The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...
Cuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
The Government’s newly announced review of methane emissions reduction targets hints at its desire to delay Aotearoa New Zealand’s urgent transition to a climate safe future, the Green Party said. ...
Distinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector. "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra In the free-for-all between the Australian government and Big Tech boss Elon Musk this week, the government had to be on a winner. Most people would have little sympathy with Musk’s vociferous opposition to ...
Asia Pacific Report Chief Mandla Mandela, a member of the National Assembly of South Africa and Nelson Mandela’s grandson, has joined the Freedom Flotilla in istanbul as the ships prepare to sail for Gaza, reports Kia Ora Gaza. Mandela is also the ambassador for the Global Campaign to Return to ...
Pacific Media Watch Journalists who report on environmental issues are encountering growing difficulties in many parts of the world, reports Reporters Without Borders. According to the tally kept by RSF, 200 journalists have been subjected to threats and physical violence, including murder, in the past 10 years because they were ...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards, Democracy Project (https://democracyproject.nz)Political scientist, Dr Bryce Edwards. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra BagzhanSadvakassov/Upsplash, CC BY-SA Australia’s inflation rate has fallen for the fifth successive quarter, and it’s now less than half of what it was back in late 2022. ...
ACT's Rural Communities and Veterans spokesman Mark Cameron responds to cancellations and protests of ANZAC Day commemorations in Wellington. He says, "These pitiful attempts to detract from ANZAC Day are not at all indicative of the feelings of mainstream ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meighen McCrae, Associate Professor of Strategic & Defence Studies, Australian National University American and Australian stretcher bearers working together near the front line during the Battle of Hamel in 1918.Australian War Memorial While the AUKUS alliance is new, the Australian-American partnership ...
Pōneke based peace activists staged a silent protest at the ANZAC day service to highlight New Zealand’s complicity in war and genocide, and urge the government to take concrete steps to stop the genocide in Palestine. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Magdalena M.E. Bunbury, Postdoctoral Researcher, James Cook University Burial with a horse at the Rákóczifalva site, Hungary (8th century AD).Sándor Hegedűs, Hungarian National Museum, CC BY How do we understand past societies? For centuries, our main sources of information have been ...
Amanda Thompson doesn’t really do Anzac Day. But what she does do is remember the people she knew who had a lifetime to remember stuff they didn’t really want to, because of a war they didn’t ask for. And she does make Anzac biscuits.First published in 2021.All my ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathryn Willis, Postdoctoral Researcher, CSIRO Xavier Boulenger/Shutterstock In the two decades to 2019, global plastic production doubled. By 2040, plastic manufacturing and processing could consume as much as 20% of global oil production and use up 15% of the annual carbon ...
With our collective remembrance, and steadfast belief in our common humanity, we strengthen our hope and resolve to do what we can to foster dialogue and understanding, and to heal divisions in our pursuit of peace. ...
Principal reasons for the opposition is the loss of the public’s democratic right to have “a fair say” and the vital need for a government free from corruption, said Casey Cravens of Dunedin, president of the New Zealand Federation of Freshwater ...
Never mind the scoreboard – in the 2000 Bledisloe Cup decider, the real trans-Tasman battle was won before kickoff.First published in 2016. The dawn of the new millennium was a dark time for the All Blacks. Their final game pre-Y2K was a 22-18 loss to South Africa in the ...
I’m on the wrong side of 40, I never pursued creative work and now my job is killing my soul. Help! Want Hera’s help? Email your problem to helpme@thespinoff.co.nzDear Hera,May I start with the least original conversation opener you’re likely to hear around the motu at the moment, particularly in Wellington: ...
“Never again - No AUKUS” was the message of the wreath laid at this morning’s national ANZAC Day commemorative service at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park this morning by the Stop AUKUS group. ...
Until this month, Auckland swimmer Hazel Ouwehand had never met a qualifying time in an Olympic event for a New Zealand team, even as a junior. Now she’s very likely off to the Paris Olympics after swimming well under the qualifying standard in the 100m butterfly twice – both in ...
While Anzac Day has experienced a resurgence in recent years, our other day of remembrance has slowly faded from view.The Sunday Essay is made possible thanks to the support of Creative New Zealand. Original illustrations by Hope McConnell.First published in 2022.The high school’s head girl and ...
Australian and New Zealand volunteers fought together in the Waikato War, yet still its place in the Anzac tradition is unacknowledged by our defence forces or Returned Services Association.First published in 2018.When I was a boy cub I attended Anzac Day services in the South Auckland suburb of ...
A poem by Wellington writer Tayi Tibble.Hoki Mai She kisses him goodbye with her eyes still wet and alight from their last swim in the Awatere river. At the train station celebration, she leads the Kapa Haka but her voice keeps breaking under and over itself like waves. ...
A poem from Bill Manhire’s 2017 book of verse Some Things to Place in a Coffin.My World War I Poem Inside each trench, the sound of prayer. Inside each prayer, the sound of digging. Image courtesy of Auckland War Memorial Museum. ...
There are three books I have wolfed down in one sitting over the last two years. Colleen Maria Lenihan’s gorgeous and sad debut Kōhine, Noelle McCarthy’s memoir Grand about becoming her mother and then unbecoming her, and now Hine Toa, a staunch yet gentle self-portrait by living legend Ngāhuia te ...
Loading…(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){var ql=document.querySelectorAll('A[quiz],DIV[quiz],A[data-quiz],DIV[data-quiz]'); if(ql){if(ql.length){for(var k=0;k<ql.length;k++){ql[k].id='quiz-embed-'+k;ql[k].href="javascript:var i=document.getElementById('quiz-embed-"+k+"');try{qz.startQuiz(i)}catch(e){i.start=1;i.style.cursor='wait';i.style.opacity='0.5'};void(0);"}}};i['QP']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)})(window,document,'script','https://take.quiz-maker.com/3012/CDN/quiz-embed-v1.js','qp'); Got a good quiz question?Send Newsroom your questions. The post Newsroom daily quiz, Thursday 25 April appeared first on Newsroom. ...
Asia Pacific Report Students and activist staff at Australia’s University of Sydney (USyd) have set up a Gaza solidarity encampment in support of Palestinians and similar student-led protests in the United States. The camp was pitched as mass graves, crippled hospitals, thousands of civilian deaths and the near-total destruction of ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By James B. Dorey, Lecturer in Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong Australian teddy bear bees are cute and fluffy, but get a look at that massive (unbarbed) stinger! James Dorey Photography Most of us have been stung by a bee and we ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jen Roberts, Senior Lecturer, School of Humanities and Social Inquiry, University of Wollongong Aussie~mobs/FlickrVictor Farr, a private in the 1st Infantry Battalion, was among the first to land at Anzac Cove just before dawn on April 25 1915. Victor Farr ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne Gregory Moore I had the good fortune to care for the sugar gum at The University of Melbourne’s Burnley Gardens in Victoria where I worked for ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Hawkins, Senior Lecturer, Canberra School of Politics, Economics and Society, University of Canberra BagzhanSadvakassov/Upsplash, CC BY-SA Australia’s inflation rate has fallen for the fifth successive quarter, and it’s now less than half of what it was back in late 2022. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachel Ong ViforJ, ARC Future Fellow & Professor of Economics, Curtin University Just when we think the price of rentals could not get any worse, this week’s Rental Affordability Snapshot by Anglicare has revealed low-income Australians are facing a housing crisis like ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meighen McCrae, Associate Professor of Strategic & Defence Studies, Australian National University American and Australian stretcher bearers working together near the front line during the Battle of Hamel in 1918.Australian War Memorial While the AUKUS alliance is new, the Australian-American partnership ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tracey Holmes, Professorial Fellow in Sport, University of Canberra When the news broke last weekend that 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive to a banned drug in early 2021 and were allowed to compete at the Tokyo Olympic Games six months later ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cally Jetta, Senior Lecturer and Academic Lead; College for First Nations, University of Southern Queensland Australian War MemorialAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised this article contains names and images of deceased people, as well as sensitive historical information ...
RNZ News Melissa Lee has been ousted from New Zealand’s coalition cabinet and stripped of the Media portfolio, and Penny Simmonds has lost the Disability Issues portfolio in a reshuffle. Climate Change and Revenue Minister Simon Watts will take Lee’s spot in cabinet. Simmonds was a minister outside of cabinet. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Lindenmayer, Professor, Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University laurello/Shutterstock Some reports and popular books, such as Bill Gammage’s Biggest Estate on Earth, have argued that extensive areas of Australia’s forests were kept open through frequent burning by ...
Analysis - Christopher Luxon framing the demotion of two ministers as the portfolios getting "too complex" is a charitable way of saying they weren't up to the job. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra With Jim Chalmers’s third budget on May 14, Australians will be looking for some more cost-of-living relief – beyond the tax cuts – although they have been warned extra measures will be modest. As ...
Analysis: Melissa Lee has lost the media portfolio and her spot in Cabinet after multiple failed attempts to find solutions for a media industry in crisis. On Wednesday, the Prime Minister announced Lee would be losing her spot in Cabinet along with her media and communications ministerial portfolio. The job ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Wilmot, Senior Lecturer, Film, Deakin University Among the many Australian who served during the second world war, there is a small group of people whose stories remain largely untold. These are the Muslim men and women who, while small in number, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Saunders, PhD Candidate, University of Canberra There has been much analysis and praise of Justice Michael Lee’s recent judgement in Bruce Lehrmann’s defamation case against Channel Ten. Many people were openly relieved to read Lee’s “forensic” and “nuanced” application of law ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kathy Gibbs, Program Director for the Bachelor of Education, Griffith University zEdward_Indy/Shutterstock Around one in 20 people has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It’s one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and often continues into adulthood. ADHD is diagnosed ...
The Fairer Future coalition of anti-poverty groups say Whaikaha must be properly funded going forward, and that to argue that poor financial management of the new Ministry is a red herring by the Prime Minister. ...
The Taxpayers’ Union is today congratulating Hon. Paul Goldsmith on his appointment as Minister for Media and Communications and urges him to rule out state intervention in the private media sector. ...
Asia Pacific Report The West Papuan resistance OPM leader has condemned Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US President Joe Biden, accusing their countries of “six decades of treachery” over Papuan independence. The open letter was released today by OPM chairman Jeffrey P Bomanak on the eve of ANZAC Day ...
Welcome to The Spinoff Books Confessional, in which we get to know the reading habits and quirks of New Zealanders at large. This week: writer and one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2024, Lauren Groff.The book I wish I’d writtenIf I wish I’d written a ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Fechner, Research Fellow, Social Marketing, Griffith University mavo/Shutterstock Imagine having dinner at a restaurant. The menu offers plant-based meat alternatives made mostly from vegetables, mushrooms, legumes and wheat that mimic meat in taste, texture and smell. Despite being given that ...
“Three Strikes is a dead-end policy proposed by a dead-end government. The Three Strikes law ignores the causes of crime, instead just brutalising people already crushed by the cost of living.” ...
By Don Wiseman, RNZ Pacific senior journalist An Australian-born judge in Kiribati could well face deportation later this week after a tribunal ruling that he should be removed from his post. The tribunal’s report has just been tabled in the Kiribati Parliament and is due to be debated by MPs ...
With its clear mandate for police use, political nuances, and nuanced public trust, Denmark's insights provide valuable considerations for Australia and New Zealand. ...
Books editor Claire Mabey reviews poet Louise Wallace’s debut novel. A famous poet once said to me that he’s always suspicious when a poet publishes a novel. I never really understood why but maybe it’s something to do with cheating on your first form. Louise Wallace is a poet. She’s ...
For a few months at the turn of the millennium, TrueBliss burned bright as the biggest pop stars in the country. Alex Casey chats to two superfans who still hold the flame. During a humble backyard wedding in Nelson, 1999, one of the cordially invited guests had to excuse themselves ...
How will the recent wave of job cuts impact ethnic diversity in the media? In November last year, I was working a very busy day in the newsroom of a large online news site, interviewing whānau about their concerns over the imminent closure of one of the few puna reo ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ruth Knight, Researcher, Queensland University of Technology Have you ever felt sick at work? Perhaps you had food poisoning or the flu. Your belly hurt, or you felt tired, making it hard to concentrate and be productive. How likely would you be ...
Despite heavy criticism and an ongoing select committee process, the Police Minister says the Government will forge ahead with a ban on gang patches. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sam Whiting, Lecturer – Creative Industries, University of South Australia Shutterstock Everyone has a favourite band, or a favourite composer, or a favourite song. There is some music which speaks to you, deeply; and other music which might be the current ...
A new survey says ‘outlook not great’ for those charged with building infrastructure, while RMA changes delight farmers and depress environmentalists, writes Anna Rawhiti-Connell in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. First RMA changes announced ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Olli Hellmann, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of Waikato Getty Images When New Zealanders commemorate Anzac Day on April 25, it’s not only to honour the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and subsequent conflicts, but also ...
Wards of the State work streets for money…no housing, not enough food
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11918794
From debate last night, Bill (discussing pensions with younger generations paying for older etc) “I raised this generation”. Yes…let’s keep in mind who is to blame.
From article above:
He applauded recent strategies such as Housing First, but he said not enough was being done to address the issues that led to people being in such vulnerable situations.
“They aren’t going to stop people before they become homeless. It’s ameliorative and helps those already homeless.”
He said the current “renter economy” meant wealth amassed with those who already had it, while those at the other end struggled to make ends meet or were reliant on benefits.
“This wealth concentration drives homelessness. We can’t just understand the actions of homeless people, but we also have to study people who are more affluent.
“I think we’ve got to say, who does the economy work for?
The solution mentioned in the article is UBI. I attended the session yesterday at the Social Movements and resistance Conference, which included a couple of presentations on UBI.
(MacClennan was not there, though some of her ideas were presented).
There were different views on whether a UBI was the solution. Most seemed for it. But there were some concerns that it would be an individualistic solution, would not be a workable solution within a capitalist economy, and/or would not be Nat-proof (ie the Nats would undermine it when in government.
I think it was Ian Middleton who was pretty scathing about Gareth Morgan’s version of the UBI, which isn’t really one – set too low; takes from superannuitants to give to younger people, etc.
The UBI speakers said that special needs benefits would not be touched by UBI eg disability and sickness benefits would still exist as well as the UBI.
14 days to go. Tipping point reached last week – remember, snafus like Joyce’s budget blow up take a few weeks to work through the polls.
I can sniff the sweet smell of napalm on the hopes and dreams of the Nats this morning.
That was a stand out performance from Jacinda last night, looking forward to tonights debate, James has been fantastic so far, he’s going to be epic tonight.
no winston no top no point
Winston isn’t participating? Why is that please?
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/morningreport/audio/201857752/nz-first-s-fall-in-polls-junk-science-peters
ouch!
“Winston isn’t participating? Why is that please?”
I heard it was due to National and Labour not fronting. Which, in an MMP environment is unacceptable.
On Radio just now the commentator said, “Winston sees his party as part of the 3 big parties, rather than part of the 4 small parties.” Might have a point there.
Agreed Cinny-James Shaw has been a revelation to me in this campaign. He will make a tremendous minister in the Jacinda Junta.
This is worth a read.
One young (youth-adjacent) woman is pretty much singlehandedly dismantling the government and the National Party.
https://thespinoff.co.nz/politics/07-09-2017/the-money-fight-ardern-lights-up-english-in-christchurch/
Cheers ScottGN for that; very nicely written. (Except for the end where it said there are 2 weeks to go-voting starts in 3 days)
Jacinda Ardern says no one should be jailed for smoking cannabis. Saying, cannabis use needs to be treated as a health issue.
Therefore, is Labour’s position forced rehab for all those caught using cannabis?
think that question belongs in Joyce’s hole
Do we force treatment for every other health issue?
Arguably, neoliberalism has been causing loads of (mainly mental, in the first instance) health issues and thus all neoliberals should be forced to into rehab. For the many, not just the few!
Oh stop talking shit Incognito. It’s just that you’re Incognisant.
Not every other health issue is illegal. And Labour aren’t offering to legalise it.
Would be helpful for many to have properly funded rehab available out there, especially for the P addicts and alcoholics
Pretty sure cannabis addiction is a small problem compared to the above, we all know of people who enjoy a joint just like some enjoy a drink, doesn’t make them an addict, but in the eyes of national the joint makes them a criminal. Maybe because they don’t collect a tax revenue off the growers/sellers, i’d say that’s the bigger issue.
“Pretty sure cannabis addiction is a small problem compared to the above, we all know of people who enjoy a joint just like some enjoy a drink, doesn’t make them an addict”
Right. But will it result in them being forced into rehab if caught?
Under a Labour Government it would still be a criminal offence.
“It would be wonderful if when people sought helped that it was there for them…”
Indeed.
The problem is more about those that you highlighted above (the casual user) being caught and being forced into rehab.
Moreover, will rehabs be privately run? Is this going to be a new growth industry funded by the taxpayer?
Lol the fear is radiating off you chair – don’t worry your stash is safe lol
+1 lol
Seeing as a straight answer hasn’t been forthcoming, it should be clear the fear you’re sensing isn’t radiating from me.
Spark up another, mate. You’re getting too straight.
You may opt to mock me, but it doesn’t answer the question.
What’s with all the mocking and avoidance? Why the struggle to answer a simple yes or no question?
have you ever smoked cannabis chair?
“This people have a right to know line is false…”
No. That’s you lowering the bar, Marty.
Of course voters have a right to know what they are voting for and how that policy will look once in place.
rubbish – it is all nonsense because the situation now that will propagate the future options is constantly changing and therefore constantly needing to be refreshed to stay relevant.
the right to know line is ONLY used for some things and as an attack line against others and generally a right wing meme – you aren’t lowering the bar chair – you are the bar.
While changes can eventuate, thus new responses may be required, it’s no excuse for not informing voters of their current plans.
Therefore, this rubbish you’re spouting is you simply making excuses for your lowering of the bar.
The right to know applies to all parties, hence it’s not an attack line used solely from the right. It’s an attack line (with good merit) used against those that fail to front up with the details, thus are rightly in the firing line.
what is going to happen tomorrow?
Nobody can say for sure, Marty. But that doesn’t stop us from making plans. Nor is it an excuse for preventing us from knowing what our political leaders plan to do.
the answer is no…so heres one for you….has Labour at any point said there will be enforced rehab for everyone caught with cannabis?….and when you answer that one heres the follow up….why then do you feel compelled to ask such a ridiculous question?
“The answer is no”
Well if that is correct, then how will it work? How will she ensure people get the help she deems they require?
As for your questions. Jacinda has touted using rehab, but, as usual, was vague on details on how that would work/look.
Therefore, while I haven’t heard her use the word forced, I haven’t heard her rule it out. Hence, the question.
And as you can see, it’s far from ridiculous considering what’s been touted coupled with the lack of details.
will National compel euthanasia upon drug dependent young beneficiaries who fail to attend job interviews?
I haven’t heard them say they won’t.
i thought The Chairman may want some company down Joyces rabbit hole
I am also concerned because I haven’t heard Jacinda say they won’t deport people to the FEMA camps hidden in the US – why hasn’t she said this won’t happen? Un-nice forces are at work here methinks. Who is hiding what from whom – that is the question!!!
I showed you the courtesy of answering your questions, yet you failed to answer mine. Why is that, Pat?
As for your last question. National have touted a form of forced rehab for beneficiaries, but I doubt they will go as far as you asked. Are you thinking of voting for them, Pat?
as there has been no suggestion of a blanket rehab (except your own) under a health focused (as opposed to a criminal justice) cannabis policy i would safely state that Labours policy would not go so far as you suggest.
Am i thinking of voting for National?…”….i don’t want to go among mad people”
While there has been no suggestion of blanketed rehab, rehab has been touted. Therefore, voters have a right to know what that is going to look like.
Why is Labour and its cheerleaders so afraid of fronting up on their own policy?’ It fails to reinforce voter confidence or trust.
Moreover, the suggestion of rehab (whether blanketed or not) never came from me. I’m merely the one asking genuine questions.
oh
billchair – this people have a right to know line is false and labour and other lefties get this – why don’t you I wonder?Is this the best you’ve got? seriously chair get a new hobby buddy.
if you are genuinely concerned that the next government will operate in a less open and ethical way than the previous I suggest you then address your questions to your local Labour Party representative.
It would be wonderful if when people sought helped that it was there for them, doesn’t seem to be the case at present. Where does an addict go when they need help at the moment? Services are now stretched to breaking point, tragically suicide seems to be a preferred choice to deal with it.
Currently, it appears to be easier to lock people up in jail, lawyers are making $$$$ from that, but the courts and prisons are bursting at the seams.
Police now say they deal with minor cannabis matters at their descretion, maybe it’s because this year they couldn’t even afford to fly the choppers around our region, beautiful climate here js.
Cannabis is costing us tax payers huge ammounts of $$$, decriminalising it and offering people help if they are addicted would cost so much less but leaving the cost out of it, decriminalisation makes so much more sense.
Here’s an idea, binding citizens referendum.
Labour are well aware of the cannabis debate and recognise something needs to change, so do the Greens. That’s another reason I’m voting for change, so the oldies next door don’t have to go to the tinny house and risk being arrested to self medicate for cancer and pain because they want an alternative to highly addictive opiates.
@ Pat
Interesting how quick your position changed. From belonging in Joyce’s hole, to being ridiculous and now you’re suggesting I direct it to my local Labour Party representative.
Wonder if my local will have your initial response?
Nevertheless, with voting beginning in three days, don’t you think the onus should be on the party to put the relevant info out and into the public domain. For example, on their website?
or maybe i got bored interacting with the deliberately obtuse
Pat, I’m more interested in what your local Labour rep did to you, that you’d inflict the chairman on them 🙂
I think Jacinda meant that treating cannabis as a Health issue would mean taking it out of the Crimes Act. Swap one for other in some form.
Seeing as Labour aren’t legalising it. Can it be taken out of the crimes act if it is still a crime?
And how would that work exactly? Would users who go before the courts then be sentence to rehab instead of jail, being fined, or home detention?
All Jacinda has said is that it should be in Health.
At some time later when the issue rises, there will be a Bill to rationalise the problems you raise. Maybe there will be a move to decriminalise because there is a mood for change but as you know National has avoided creating change but consolidated innovations produced by Labour over many decades.
“All Jacinda has said is that it should be in Health.”
No, she has gone further than that. The use of rehab has been mentioned.
The public mood for change is already there, it’s Labour that oppose decriminalisation, although they’re apparently open to making it a conscience vote. But voting on it is not a priority.
Therefore, despite the stardust generating from Jacinda, voters are still in the dark when it comes to knowing how rehab will work and who will be impacted.
I find it annoying when parties say that Cannabis reform is not a priority. They minimise it like it is only a niche thing for a couple of pot heads who want to smoke.
In reality it is a massive deal for our prisons, poor, sick, and economy.
We can reduce our prison populations by reducing those who are sent to jail not just for use but for criminal activity that surrounds the black market. Those in lower socio economic area’s no longer become the victims and perpetrators of said crimes.
As others have said those who wish to use Cannabis to self medicate will have access without becoming criminals.
Finally a legal industry not only allows for taxation but allows for actual controls to be set up. Just like alcohol or smokes you can set age limits and licensing limits on how it is sold and grown. Quality standards can be set to ensure there is no contamination or spiking.
Cannabis is not a small little niche topic that can be discussed at a later date when it becomes important. It is important now. Whilst I think the argument of forced rehab is facile I would like to see some more fleshed out think from Labour in this. Why the hell are they so scared the numbers are in favour of reform.
WOW you are quoting direct insult lines from bill english chair as in ‘stardust’
I’m sick of gnat spin merchants pretending to be left – that is the d of dirty politics imo I wish we could just stick to the issues and not have the dirty spin and attempts at creating murk.
Why the struggle to answer a simple yes or no question?
I’m not struggling, Marty. Your question was irrelevant to the discussion.
deleted
It seems relevant to me – why not just answer?
My past history has no relevance what so ever on the position Labour has decided to take in this matter. Nor does it have any relevance on why Labour are holding back on the details.
Therefore, why do you deem it is relevant?
past history – bit redundant there
when you took cannabis did you think you needed rehab?
why would you think anyone does now?
“When you took cannabis did you think you needed rehab?”
Correction, Marty. I never said I did.
“Why would you think anyone does now?”
To be clear, it’s Labour that are touting it.
Nevertheless, some people may have a problem with it, thus may need help getting off it.
Well, what’s giving you the “oh mah Gerd, forced rehab!!!” jitters? P? You’re a meth-head, aintcha. I’m peeking through your window right now!
notice “i never said I did” is not the same as “I never did” but this appears to be a major for you chair – as a lifelong left voter are you now thinking seriously of changing your vote to the gnats because of their honesty compared to Labour on this essential issue?
@ McFlock
My concern isn’t personal. I don’t require rehab.
My concern is for the casual user, and how will this impact them? The potential for offshore and local investors profiteering and the overall effectiveness of forced rehab.
And what of those using it for health reasons? Is raw cannabis going to be legalised for medical use or is Labour only talking about cannabis based products?
I’m sure everyone is greatful for your concern of the day.
I, personally, am eagerly anticipating whatever will be your concern about Lab/Grn this evening, and will barely be able to sleep for contemplation of what might be your sudden concern of tomorrow morning.
Concern, for you, seems to be an infinitely renewable resource. We are all blessed that you shower it upon us in such copious volumes (and about such a wide variety of topics), warm and with that unmistakable “fresh from the bladder” odour.
“My concern is for the casual user”
lol sure we believe you chair – FORCED REHAB – figment of your own mind. the rest of your gnat concern tr0ll lines are equally invalid – good for a laugh though ta chair LOL
How will they know the casual user to force them to rehab? Now real fear would be workplace testing for E and coke abd the like. Watch the white monied classes squeal about civil rights then
True – “fear” is the wrong word.
What do you think Labour are paranoid of? Turning voters off?
See McFlock 4.6 below. The fact that you haven’t been given every little detail about a “policy” that was basically an answer to a question doesn’t entitle you to start fantasising evil intent on the part of the person who answered the question.
“Fantasising evil intent”
Rubbish. I asked you a couple of questions. And I see you didn’t answer them.
But you answering a question (in fact, it was more of a correction on your part) gives you the right to imply (with evil intent) that I’m paranoid? Piss off.
More punctilious idiocy from a concern troll who has just wasted a huge amount of screen-space. Please go conservationist about screen-space, Mr so-called Chairman.
I think Jacinda meant that treating cannabis as a Health issue would mean taking it out of the Crimes Act. Swap one for other in some form.
you went from “health issue” to “forced rehab”.
Stop smoking so much. you’re getting paranoid.
No.
Jacinda wants to make it a health issue and brought up the use of rehab instead of people going to jail.
Therefore, I was questioning if it was going to be forced rehab. As in, will cannabis users going before the courts now face being sentenced to rehab?
It’s a logical assumption (not paranoia) going off the limited details given. And another example of why Labour need to provide more details. Without them (details) people tend to suspect the worse and it allows the opposition to reinforce that perception by filling in the blanks with their worse speculation.
… it allows
the oppositionThe Chairman to reinforce that perception by filling in the blanks with their worse speculation.FIFY
yep – the worst possible interpretation for Labour and there is the chair digging and sifting, digging and shuffling…
The flaw in your correction is, I’m not the opposition. I’m from the left.
Moreover, I’m not filling in the blanks, I’m merely asking genuine questions, which makes your (and a few others on here) antics look even worse to outsiders reading this thread.
You’re not helping Labour, you (and a few others on here) just make them look more dodgy.
left? lol that made me spurt my coffee – good humour chair, big LOLs to you.
I announce I will buy a car.
A “logical assumption” would be that I could be considering vehicular murder.
And yet if that’s the main question you have about my purchasing decision you’d still be either paranoid or shitstirring.
“I announce I will buy a car. A “logical assumption” would be that I could be considering vehicular murder.”
On that information alone, it’s far from the logical assumption. Unlike Labour’s example (the use of rehab instead of people going to jail).
You’re so full of shit.
Treating something as a health issue is as close to “forced rehab” as buying a car is to vehicular murder.
Your “concern” (lol) rests on the idea that coercion and detention needs to be replaced by more coercion and detention. This is the antithesis of successful addiction rehabilitation.
Decriminalisation means at worst a fine and confiscation for users (not dealers). So, you take the info from the ticket and offer them free addiction services if they think they’re doing too much. Hell, the cop can just give them a leaflet, and it would still be a more effective health intervention than your wet dream of “forced rehab”.
fuck, you can put that one by the “$11.7 Billion” hole Joyce dug himself.
“You’re so full of shit.”
Piss off. I’m merely asking questions. The use of rehab instead of people going to jail does imply it could be forced rehab. Hence, I’m asking, not stating it as fact.
Labour could easily put this concern to bed by posting some details on their website, yet they haven’t. Why is that? It makes it look as if they have something to hide.
And why would they want to give voters that perception if they were on the up and up?
It doesn’t add up. It suggests they are either incompetent or they are hiding something.
Yeah, you’re always “asking questions”, Cartman.
Oh mah gerd, Ardern isn’t powered by stardust: SHE TOOK THE SMURFBERRIES!
What are the number of users, as opposed to dealers, oh cannabis jailed in the last 12 mobths?
Not exactly what you asked for, but there are some figures to be found here:
https://www.drugfoundation.org.nz/matters-of-substance/february-2013/cost-of-our-convictions/
Pity the data doesn’t include just cannabis users. All illegal drug users lumped together.English reckoned there were just 7 in prison for cannabis use. Though an annual figure would help. Can English be fact checked?
This is an interesting twist… Hosking has been replaced for tonights debate.
” Mike Hosking will not moderate the TVNZ multi-party debate tomorrow night – due to sickness.
TVNZ announced tonight 1News political editor Corin Dann will step in at the last minute and replace Hosking as debate moderator.”
Is he still hung over?
He must have seen the Colmar Brunton before the rest of us hence the sudden breakdown.
Or could it be the effect of those quack health products he peddles on his infotainment radio show?
https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/tv-radio/96624856/mike-hosking-too-unwell-to-host-tvnzs-second-debate
Hosking says he never reads comment about him or his valuable work. When being confronted with a 60,000 poll to remove him from the debate, and TVNZ talk of modifying his place on Seven, it may have knocked him for a six. Ego crash?
And the First Leaders Debate was regarded as pretty dull, so ego again?
Or he might have got the flu.
I hope alcohol is not preventing him from working, that’s a sackable offense in most contracts
All the best Corin, after all you are the political editor of TVNZ
TVNZ is loosing big money a can’t afford a narcissist egomaniac like him.
He is sick of the polls showing Nationals support continuing a downward spiral.
I think Hosk may have Labour pains.
People will get to see what a partisan lickspittle he is by comparison.
Ot TVNZ wants a moderator who does not feel pressured to be impartial?
Be sad if dear old Mike has passed his Use-by date.
Whilst the election process is well underway.
I am concerned with all the “promises” to build houses: be they Kiwibuild 10k pa or Bill’s govt building 30k pa. I have made a few comments regarding the difficulty that the building industry is having, and that there is severe pressure currently on cash flows caused by our banks reducing credit facilities. Here is another example of this with Martin Dunn on ZB yesterday (to save time go to about the 12 minute mark), banks are repatriating money back to Melbourne.
The next 3 year term is IMO not going to be all clear sailing especially within the building industry.
http://120.138.20.16/WeekOnDemand/ZB/auckland/2017.09.07-11.15.00-S.mp3
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/property/91230001/warning-that-nz-is-heading-for-peak-construction-as-banks-tighten-purse-strings
So no matter who wins the power still resides with the banks. The same banks that caused the building slump in 07-08.
‘..the power still resides with the banks’
Only because the successive governments have handed the role of credit creation to the banks.
So actually the power resides with the government.
And if the measure of new houses is building consents that is another smokescreen
Number of Code of compliance certs issued should be IMO the number quoted, as that conveys what has been completed and is ready for occupation.
In 2016 it was estimated that
“This year was expected to top the 13,500 homes mark – the estimated level needed for the next three decades if the city is to address its shortage.
But the report suggests a little less than 12,000 will be built.
http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/309675/fewer-houses-to-be-built-in-auckland-than-predicted
YET …
“The numbers being completed are far less than those consented. Statistics from Auckland Council show that last year 7200 houses were built and 6520 and 5550 were completed for year end 2015 and 2014 respectively,” she said.”
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11853702
So we estimated 13,500, but experts think 12,000 and Code of Compliances issued were …. 7,200. Just as well that there is NO housing crisis !! as we under built 6,300 homes in Auckland alone
Also I hear being mentioned the number of new houses that will be built under national. Funny how “we” will have to demolished 8,300 to build 34,000. Doesn’t that mean that we have added 25,700 (once they are built !! 🙂 )
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/92623598/Government-to-build-34-000-new-Auckland-houses-classes-650-000-as-an-affordable-house
The level of deception from this fishing club spokesman is something to behold. I certainly have seen dolphins south of Moeraki at places like porpoise bay (where the name is a bit of a hint):
https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/sea-shepherd-patrol-boat-launched
Election billboards: why do so few of them give any reason to vote for the candidate being touted? My reaction to anything that just says “Vote for Bloggs” is “why the fuck should I when you can’t even be bothered to tell me why?”
Except for Winnie’s “Had enough?”. Now that you mention it Winnie, why yes, I have had enough of your smug smirk.
I have so wanted to adjust his billboard near our abode – maybe ‘bad enough’ some adjustment to the ‘had’ but sadly those days are over for me and the youf can’t be bothered or so it seems.
This will show my age, but Bill English’s reference to Jacinda Ardern as ‘stardust’ recalls Joni Mitchell and her version of “Woodstock”.
It was a song of aspiration, the need and desire for change. I would adopt it, changing the intended denigration from the Prime Minister into a positive.
“Got to get back to the land and set my soul free……..
“And I feel myself a cog in something turning………
“By the time we got to Woodstock
We were half a million strong
And everywhere was a song and a celebration
“We are stardust, we are golden
We are caught in the devils bargain
And we got to get ourselves back to the garden.”
Some real resonance here for this “child of God” as again the generations change.
That is prolly what he called Key behind his back
The people in Epsom must be very confused right now as their main party tanks. Having had their hand held in the ballot box for the last several elections there doesn’t seem to be any orders coming from National Party HQ in the face of impending disaster for National.
Perhaps we’ll see the electorate vote there begin to resemble the real world where ACT has 0.1% support for their lunatic policies.
Suppose if Seymour was not elected would it make any difference?
Yes, we’d get rid of the prick!
If only everyone in that electorate who doesn’t like Act would vote National for the electorate mp then it would happen. No more Rimmer. Yay.
There is that Garibaldi. He is a nasty little chap and able to be pretty fluent and convincing to some. Spiteful too.
What’s in a comma? Poor Garibaldi……….
Oh. I see young mac1. That Garibaldi is a real “that” then.
Most did just that for the last few elections but that is a rich demographic. Most there are blue
It would mean the National Party would have to stop pretending extreme policies like charter schools and gutting the RMA were theirs, rather than using Seymour as their stalking horse.
Which would mean they’d lose a whole heap of ‘middle New Zealand ‘ voters.
+1, Ed
This ^^^^^^
maybe. currently he is not a overhang and sucks Nats party vote down having missed the chance to drag a further mp… …the bald one… up to parliament but also getting to many votes to get hangover. only the Maori party got hangover.
The left don’t, well Anderson maybe… …do hangovers. The Maori party cares about people’s second home not getting new taxes, hardly left wing reasoning.
If you want hangover, and end slipping back on the list, party vote Green the only pure MMP party party.
Epsom voters of the blue variety actually like Act too
Yep. The problem is so do many living outside Epsom who make a over vote which harms National. National either want just Seymour voters in Epson or lots more ACT voters nationally.
They have their self interested instructions. They will not waiver
Trying to decide what’s more likely here:
– Mike Hosking on his knees in front of toilet bowl dry heaving uncontrollably in an unshakeable cold sweat as the reality of polling kicks in and he realises that Steven Joyce’s dirty tricks won’t save his National government
– Middle aged man discovers that trying to starve himself and subsist largely on mildly warm lemon water in order to maintain his figure is not a good idea
https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/tv-radio/96624856/mike-hosking-too-unwell-to-host-tvnzs-second-debate
Cemetery see above at 5.2
Heh, +1
This is where we’re at, folks.
A dying man was discharged to a bus stop wearing pyjamas because Christchurch Hospital staff felt he was a “nuisance” and “faking” his illness.
Neil David Jones, 47, then lay on the footpath for six hours while members of the public tried to get doctors to help him. He was eventually trespassed from the hospital and taken to a shelter, where he vomited blood.
An ambulance took him back to hospital, where he died two days later.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/96602147
And Coleman and English say there’s no crisis in the health sector.
Still Joyce and English got their surplus……
+100 to joe90 an Ed
Baby cheeses!
A new book by George Monbiot looks to offers solutions and alternatives to neoliberalism.
‘What does the good life—and the good society—look like in the twenty-first century?
A toxic ideology rules the world – of extreme competition and individualism. It misrepresents human nature, destroying hope and common purpose. Only a positive vision can replace it, a new story that re-engages people in politics and lights a path to a better world.
George Monbiot shows how new findings in psychology, neuroscience and evolutionary biology cast human nature in a radically different light: as the supreme altruists and cooperators. He shows how we can build on these findings to create a new politics: a “politics of belonging.” Both democracy and economic life can be radically reorganized from the bottom up, enabling us to take back control and overthrow the forces that have thwarted our ambitions for a better society.
Urgent, and passionate, Out of the Wreckage provides the hope and clarity required to change the world.’
http://www.monbiot.com/2017/08/01/out-of-the-wreckage-2/
Thanks for the tip
Bill English is taking calls from the public this morning on Radio Live, it starts at 11am and finishes at noon.
Live stream here if you want to listen.
http://www.radiolive.co.nz/home.player.html
Phone number to ring in here if you have a question.
0800 844 747
What’s your question for English?
Will you go back to Treasury, the farm or being a house husband?
Hey there Ed, was unable to ring in… but it would have been…
Why was Barclay recording Glenis, and don’t say you don’t know Bill, because you do, and so do I, and English, who was female who was a senior level politician at the time involved, and don’t claim the confidentiality agreement, because you said you had not signed one.
Yeah that’s what I would have asked.
Actually there were two callers who phoned in with Barclay questions, and he LIED. Someone asked how much hush money was paid to Glenis, English claimed he did not know, Sanso even clarified with him that he didn’t know, and he said again he did not know the amount, that is an outright bold faced lie.
can someone tell deputy davis to stop being a macho twit , he was shit on news hub this morning
I think that his personality.
Vote Hone.
He is doing all he can to trip the campaign
I don’t like him but that seems too far – any evidence he is deliberately trying to trip the campaign as opposed to just being useless?
I agree, he permanently looks grumpy and non-positive. I don’t know if this is his usual demeanour but he needs to lighten up – he should be as the polls are looking pretty good for Labour. It doesn’t help that Paula Benefit carries on like a chipmunk on steroids and comes across like a smug know it all – she grates like hell so between the two of them – yes they need to be spoken to or removed from the AM Show.
Big upps for the Jacinda effect that is empowering women in NZ to fight for there equal rights
Now we need the most popular Lady in the World to help us fight for OUR WORLD.!!!!!!!!
Nice one Eco maori. Jacinda is empowering women everywhere – not just those in her own age group. She is also appealing to older women like myself who were victims of so much misogyny and abuse in our younger days. We don’t want to see the new generations of women put through the same hoops.
“Only from 55 to 64 does National pull ahead, by 39 to 34 over Labour, with a commanding lead of 53 to 27 for those aged 65 and above.”
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2017/09/08/46799/labour-gap-women
Small sample size with consequent MOE however that over 65 favourability rating is very surprising……though in total the thrust of the results are buoyant for Labour
Wonder what house ownership is amongst the +65 s?
Wonder how many of them got free tertiary education?
yes, well even so….my direct experience is that over 65s haven’t been impressed with rising living costs, esp health., and concern for offspring(naturally)…and much of the antipathy to Labour was around presentation….is it perhaps JAs relative youth?
I would imagine the numbers are connected more to conservatism and wealth.
Pale, male and stale, as they say.
Hanging on to the imaginary good old days where white men ruled. Everything
lol…that may be so of some (few) ….but it is well to remember that the super-annuitants of today are ourselves in 10,20 or whatever years time….will our voting predilections reduce to such a basic formula?
Well, i will be retired then. I am not male and I rule over nothing.
Could be rich people live longer than poor ones thus skewing opinion polls to the right in the older demographics.
I found a low Tec way to stop my smart phone from getting tracked cost me $1.50
It’s a lot less stress now
Eco maori you’ve livened things up in here no end…
Hope fully for the better Scott for our cause. I’m old enough to no what life was like before national started there circus and life was much better for everyone.
And It’s awesome that we have social media to assists us in our fight to oust national and there spinning shit just like there manama nups whom insult me every day and think I can not see trough there dum ass tack ticks
I notice Helen Clark has now spoken up at least twice durung this campaign? Is Key in Hawaii where he used to have cellphone troubles?
He’s run out of roles to speak from: now he’s no longer Prime minister or National Party Leader, anything he says would be in his role as “John Key, human being”. And he’s spent so long telling people what they want to hear from those different roles, he’s terrified of trying to form an opinion of his own. Hasn’t had one since the ’81 tour.
Hasn’t had one since the ’81 tour.
Didn’t have one then. Or so he says.
Isnt he golf ambassador from some meglomanical chinese businessman?
Japanese.
And on the board of AirNZ? Both of which roles would probably preclude him from wading into the fray
Except he talked about Ardern being the right pick for Labour. I think she had her hair in a ponytail that day
Key? Who he?
New poll out.
National 30%
Labour 45%
NZ first 11%
which poll and where are the Greens?
I’m hoping that Labour level off as some leftish labour try to prop up the Greens
It’s a newsroom online poll of 550 people (no phone interviews) margin of error 4.4%.
https://www.newsroom.co.nz/@election-2017/2017/09/08/46848/election-15-days
ah.
probably a bit more off than that then.
McFlock just heard at 3.55pm those figure’s when thee panel was talking about combinations of coalitions.
Then Jim Mora had to correct them saying National had no options.