Open mike 12/01/2014
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7:00 am, January 12th, 2014 - 44 comments
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The Government’s fast-track list is another example of its reckless approach to the environment and disregard for due process. ...1 day ago - Release: Fast track list reveals Govt’s backroom deals
The coalition Government’s backroom deals with coal and ironsands mining companies have finally been revealed – and it’s not pretty. ...2 days ago
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Education Minister Erica Stanford still can’t confirm when the Government will deliver the $2 billion worth school upgrades she cut earlier this year. ...4 days ago
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Labour acknowledges the hundreds of workers today losing their jobs as the Winstone Pulp mill closes and what it will mean for their families and community. ...5 days ago
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In Budget '24, the National Government put aside $216 million to pay for a tax cut which mainly benefitted one company: global tobacco giant Philip Morris. Instead of giving hundreds of millions to big tobacco, National could have spent the money sensibly, on New Zealand. ...5 days ago
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The end of free Rapid Antigen Tests today is another sign the Government is giving up on the challenge of protecting the community from Covid-19. ...1 week ago
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Labour supports Buller and Dunedin communities who are marching today and calling on the Government to act urgently to fix the health crisis. ...1 week ago
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Today the government announced a $30m cut to Te Ahu o Te Reo Māori- a programme that develops te reo Māori among our kaiako. “This announcement is just the latest in an onslaught of attacks on te iwi Māori,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi. ...2 weeks ago
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The Green Party is calling on the Government to honour its promise to Dunedin and build its new hospital to full capacity. ...2 weeks ago
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The non-announcement in Dunedin today had Ministers leaving broken promises and a likely severely diluted hospital build in their wake. ...2 weeks ago
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- Government introduces controversial MACA legislation
The Government’s introduction of its interventions in the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act threatens to throw relations between Māori and Crown into deeper disharmony. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Gun lobby bill removes regulation at ranges
Gun lobbyist Nicole McKee and her conflict of interest has struck again, this time removing safety regulations from shooting clubs and ranges in New Zealand. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt forgetting the 6000 jobs they’ve cut
The real problem in the public sector is ongoing job losses and cuts to the front line. ...2 weeks ago
- Government undermines public service with WFH crackdown
The Green Party says the Government’s retrograde move to tighten up on Work from Home arrangements is the latest in a series of blows to the Public Service. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Ministers oblivious to cuts’ effect on families
The National Government is oblivious to the impact cuts to services will have on New Zealanders who are doing the hard yards caring for mentally ill family members. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Public service set up to fail under National
Nicola Willis has set up the public service to fail to pay for reckless tax cuts for landlords and the tobacco industry. ...2 weeks ago
- Holding careless builders accountable
The Government is looking at strengthening requirements for building professionals, including penalties, to ensure Kiwis have confidence in their biggest asset, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says “The Government is taking decisive action to make building easier and more affordable. If we want to tackle our chronic undersupply of houses ...5 hours ago - Further action to tackle driver licence wait times
The Government is taking further action to tackle the unacceptable wait times facing people trying to sit their driver licence test by temporarily extending the amount of time people can drive on overseas licences from 12 months to 18 months, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “The previous government removed fees for ...9 hours ago
- Strengthened cyber security support for New Zealand businesses
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring New Zealand is a safe and secure place to do business with the launch of new cyber security resources, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Andrew Bayly says. “Cyber security is crucial for businesses, but it’s often discounted for more immediate business concerns. ...9 hours ago
- Apprenticeship Boost targets key occupations
Investment in Apprenticeship Boost will prioritise critical industries and targeted occupations that are essential to addressing New Zealand’s skills shortages and rebuilding the economy, Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston say. “By focusing Apprenticeship Boost on first-year apprentices in targeted occupations, ...13 hours ago
- Funding boost to reduce wait times at Palmerston North ED
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced a funding boost for Palmerston North ED to reduce wait times and improve patient safety and care, as well as new national standards for moving acute patients through hospitals. “Wait times in emergency departments have deteriorated over the past six years and Palmerston ...13 hours ago
- Funding boost to reduce wait times at Palmerston North ED
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced a funding boost for Palmerston North ED to reduce wait times and improve patient safety and care, as well as new national standards for moving acute patients through hospitals. “Wait times in emergency departments have deteriorated over the past six years and Palmerston ...13 hours ago
- Significant investment for affordable housing with Waikato-Tainui
Mehemea he pai mō te tangata, mahia! If it’s good for the people, get on with it! A $35 million Government investment will enable the delivery of 100 affordable rental homes in partnership with Waikato-Tainui, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says. Investment for the partnership, signed and announced today ...14 hours ago
- Unlocking the potential of ethnic businesses
This week’s inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium will explore the role that ethnic communities and businesses can play in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee says. “One of my top priorities as Minister is unlocking the economic potential of New Zealand’s ethnic businesses,” says Ms Lee. “Ethnic communities ...2 days ago
- New Zealand marks anniversary of 7 October
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters are renewing New Zealand’s calls for restraint and de-escalation, on the first anniversary of the 7 October terrorist attacks on Israel. “New Zealand was horrified by the monstrous actions of Hamas against Israel a year ago today,” Mr Luxon says. ...2 days ago
- Iwi-led and partnered projects among those referred for Fast Track approval
Kia uru kahikatea te tū. Projects referred for Fast-Track approval will help supercharge the Māori economy and realise the huge potential of Iwi and Māori assets, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says. Following robust and independent review, the Government has today announced 149 projects that have significant regional or national ...2 days ago
- Fast-track to boost renewable electricity
The Fast-track Approvals Bill will list 22 renewable electricity projects with a combined capacity of 3 Gigawatts, which will help secure a clean, reliable and affordable supply of electricity across New Zealand, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says. “The Government has a goal of doubling New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation. The 22 ...2 days ago
- Fast-track to drive transport projects forward
The Government has enabled fast-track consenting for 29 critical road, rail, and port projects across New Zealand to deliver these priority projects faster and boost economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and our Government is working to fix it. Delivering the transport infrastructure Kiwis ...2 days ago
- Fast-track projects released
The 149 projects released today for inclusion in the Government’s one-stop-shop Fast Track Approvals Bill will help rebuild the economy and fix our housing crisis, improve energy security, and address our infrastructure deficit, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says. “The 149 projects selected by the Government have significant regional or ...2 days ago
- Ruakākā recreation centre opened
A new multi-purpose recreation centre will provide a valuable wellbeing hub for residents and visitors to Ruakākā in Northland, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. The Ruakākā Recreation Centre, officially opened today, includes separate areas for a gymnasium, a community health space and meeting rooms made possible with support of ...4 days ago
- Extra Government support for farmers and growers in Southland and parts of Otago
Agriculture Minister Todd McClay, and Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson announced up to $50,000 in additional Government support for farmers and growers across Southland and parts of Otago as challenging spring weather conditions have been classified a medium-scale adverse event. “The relentless wet weather has been tough on farmers and ...4 days ago
- Government welcomes move to delay EU Deforestation Regulation
Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay today welcomed a move by the European Commission to delay the implementation of the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by 12 months, describing the proposal as a pragmatic step that will provide much-needed certainty for New Zealand exporters and ensure over $200 million in ...4 days ago
- Response to Ministerial Inquiry into School Property
The Government is taking decisive action in response to the Ministerial Inquiry into School Property, which concludes the way school property is delivered is not fit for purpose. “The school property portfolio is worth $30 billion, and it’s critically important it’s managed properly. This Government is taking a series of immediate actions ...4 days ago
- New Government support for residential construction market announced
The Government has announced a new support programme for the residential construction market while the economy recovers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop and Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk say. “We know the residential development sector is vulnerable to economic downturns. The lead time for building houses is typically 18 ...5 days ago
- New appointment to the EPA board
Environment Minister Penny Simmonds has confirmed the final appointee to the refreshed Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) board. “I am pleased to welcome Brett O’Riley to the EPA board,” Ms Simmonds says. “Brett is a seasoned business advisor with a long and distinguished career across the technology, tourism, and sustainable business ...5 days ago
- Strengthening resilience with critical road improvement projects
The Government has approved a $226.2 million package of resilience improvement projects for state highways and local roads across the country that will reduce the impact of severe weather events and create a more resilient and efficient road network, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Our Government is committed to delivering ...5 days ago
- Doubling road rehabilitation this summer to prevent potholes
Kiwis will see fewer potholes on our roads with road rehabilitation set to more than double through the summer road maintenance programme to ensure that our roads are maintained to a safe and reliable standard, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Increasing productivity to help rebuild our economy is a key ...5 days ago
- Sir Jerry Mateparae appointed in Bougainville post-referendum moderator role
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has welcomed the announcement of Sir Jerry Mateparae as an independent moderator, to work with the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government in resolving outstanding issues on Bougainville’s future. “New Zealand is an enduring friend to Papua New Guinea and the ...5 days ago
- Latest census data highlights New Zealand’s growing ethnic diversity
The latest 2023 Census results released today further highlight New Zealand’s growing ethnic and cultural diversity, says Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee. “Today’s census results are further evidence of the increasingly diverse nature of our population. It’s something that should be celebrated and also serve as a reminder of the ...5 days ago
- FamilyBoost payments make ECE more affordable
Parents and caregivers are now able to claim for FamilyBoost, which provides low-to-middle-income families with young children payments to help them meet early childhood education (ECE) costs. “FamilyBoost is one of the ways we are supporting families with young children who are struggling with the cost of living, by helping ...5 days ago
- South Pacific defence meeting fosters collaboration
This week’s South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM) has concluded with a renewed commitment to regional security of all types, Defence Minister Judith Collins says. Defence Ministers and senior civilian and military officials from Australia, Chile, Fiji, France, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Tonga gathered in Auckland to discuss defence and security cooperation in the ...5 days ago
- Minister welcomes larger Police recruitment wings
Associate Police Minister Casey Costello has welcomed the Police announcement that recruitment wings at the Police College will be expanded to 100 recruits next year. “This is good news on two fronts – it reflects the fact that more and more New Zealanders are valuing policing and seeing it as ...5 days ago
- Speech to the Minerals West Coast Forum
Introduction Good morning! What a pleasure to be back in the stunning West Coast at one of my favourite events in the calendar. Every time I come back here, I’m reminded of the Coast’s natural beauty, valuable resources, and great people. Yet, every time I come back here, I’m also ...5 days ago
- Positive progress on Government health targets
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti welcomes new data from Health New Zealand, saying it demonstrates encouraging progress against the Government’s health targets. Health New Zealand’s quarterly report for the quarter to 30 June will be used as the baseline for reporting against the Government’s five health targets, which came into ...6 days ago
- Supporting better access to data for Kiwis
The launch of a new data tool will provide Kiwis with better access to important data, Statistics Minister Andrew Bayly says. “To grow our economy and improve productivity we must adopt smarter ways of working, which means taking a more data driven approach to decision-making. “As Statistics Minister one of ...6 days ago
- Progressing remote building inspections
The Government is progressing plans to increase the use of remote inspections to make the building and consenting process more efficient and affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “We know that the building and construction sector suffers from a lack of innovation. According to a recent report, productivity ...6 days ago
- PPTA accepts charter schools
Associate Education Minister David Seymour welcomes the PPTA putting a proposal to members at its annual conference to change its constitution and allow membership of teachers who work in charter schools. “The PPTA has had a come to Jesus moment on charter schools. This is a major departure from the ...7 days ago
- New TAIC Chief Commissioner appointed
David Clarke has been announced as the Chief Commissioner of the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC). David Clarke is a barrister specialising in corporate and commercial law and he has over 20 years experience in governance roles in commercial, public and charitable sectors. He also is a current TAIC Commissioner. ...1 week ago
- Government secures market access for blueberries to Korea
The Government has secured market access for New Zealand blueberries to Korea, unlocking an estimated $5 million in annual export opportunities for Kiwi growers Minister for Trade and Agriculture Todd McClay today announced. “This is a win for our exporters and builds on our successful removal of $190 million in ...1 week ago
- South Pacific Defence Ministers meet in Auckland
Partnership and looking to the future are key themes as Defence Ministers from across the South Pacific discuss regional security challenges in Auckland today, Defence Minister Judith Collins says. The South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM) brings together Defence Ministers, Chiefs of Defence and Secretaries of Defence from New Zealand, ...1 week ago
- Keytruda, CGMs, and FamilyBoost welcomed
In a triple whammy of good news, 1 October heralds the beginning of the funding of two major health products and a welcome contribution to early childhood fees, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says. “Keytruda is the first drug to be funded and made available from the $604 million boost we ...1 week ago
- Children’s Unit opens at Rotorua Hospital
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti today opened the refurbished Children’s Unit at Rotorua Hospital, which will provide young patients and their families in the Lakes District with a safe, comfortable and private space to receive care. “The opening of this unit is a significant milestone in our commitment to improving ...1 week ago
- Minor variations no longer major problem
It is now easier to make small changes to building plans without having to apply for a building consent amendment, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Previously builders who wanted to make a minor change, for example substituting one type of product for another, or changing the layout of ...1 week ago
- New diplomatic appointments
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced seven diplomatic appointments. “Protecting and advancing New Zealand’s interests abroad is an extremely important role for our diplomats,” Mr Peters says. “We are pleased to announce the appointment of seven senior diplomats to these overseas missions.” The appointments are: Andrew ...1 week ago
- SuperGold Information Hub live
The first iteration of the SuperGold Information Hub is now on-line, Minister for Seniors Casey Costello announced today. “The SuperGold Hub is an online portal offering up-to-date information on all of the offers available to SuperGold cardholders. “We know the SuperGold card is valued, and most people know its use ...1 week ago
- New fund to clean up old landfill and dump sites
A new Contaminated Sites and Vulnerable Landfills Fund will help councils and landowners clean up historic landfills and other contaminated sites that are vulnerable to the effects of severe weather, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says. "This $30 million fund, part of our Q4 Action Plan, increases the Government’s investment in ...1 week ago
- Government to strengthen builder licensing regime
The government is continuing to crack down on dodgy builders, with a move to strengthen requirements for registration and licensing. ...2 hours ago - Minister refers question over state of navy contributing to Manawanui sinking to NZDF
RNZ asked Judith Collins if she would ensure staffing issues were within the scope an inquiry. ...2 hours ago
- Politics with Michelle Grattan: Danielle Wood on the keys to growing Australia’s weak productivity
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra “Productivity” might sound a nerdy word to many, but improving it is vital for a more affluent life for Australians in coming years. At the moment it is languishing. Investigating ways in which our national ...2 hours ago - Partisanship dominates as federal parliament fights over Middle East war
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Federal parliament has split on partisan lines over the Middle East crisis, just a day after the anniversary of the Hamas atrocities against Israelis. After discussions between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton failed to reach ...2 hours ago
- 700 million plastic bottles: we worked out how much microplastic is in Queensland’s Moreton Bay
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Elvis Okoffo, PhD candidate in Environmental Science, The University of Queensland M-Productions/Shutterstock When it rains heavily, plastic waste is washed off our streets into rivers, flowing out to the ocean. Most plastic is trapped in estuaries and coastal ecosystems, with a ...4 hours ago
- Australia will protect a vast swathe of the Southern Ocean, but squanders the chance to show global ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew J Constable, Adviser, Antarctica and Marine Systems, Science & Policy, University of Tasmania The Albanese government has today declared stronger protections for the waters around Heard Island and McDonald Islands, one of Australia’s wildest, most remote areas. The marine park surrounding ...4 hours ago
- What is amortisation, and what does it have to do with Peter Dutton’s nuclear proposal?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jessica Yi, Course coordinator, University of South Australia atk work/Shutterstock This article is part of The Conversation’s “Business Basics” series where we ask experts to discuss key concepts in business, economics and finance. Nuclear power is expensive, but it remains ...4 hours ago
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Live analysis of the Seymour-Modlik debate
Act Party leader David Seymour is set to face-off against iwi leader Helmut Modlik in a debate on Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Join us for live coverage from the debating chamber. David Seymour has accepted an invitation to debate te Tiriti o Waitangi and his party’s controversial Treaty Principles Bill, ...4 hours ago - IINZ Makes Formal Complaint About MFAT Lies
“It’s obscene that MFAT officials have recommended funding incitement and supporting terror, and they have lied about it in response to OIA requests” says co-director of IINZ, Dr David Cumin. ...5 hours ago - Productivity is often mistaken for wages. What does it really mean? How does it work?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Peetz, Laurie Carmichael Distinguished Research Fellow at the Centre for Future Work, and Professor Emeritus, Griffith Business School, Griffith University Alexey_Rezvykh/Shutterstock Australia’s productivity growth has reverted to the same stagnant pattern as before the pandemic, according to the Productivity Commission’s ...5 hours ago
- Breaking: Ferry crosses the Cook Strait without crashing into anything
Normally ferries crash into at least one object on their journey between Picton and Wellington. This time things were different. In what will be remembered as an almost unprecedented event in this nation’s history, a ferry has crossed the Cook Strait without crashing into anything. Ferries routinely crash into at ...6 hours ago
- Health NZ document dump reveals more details on big deficit
Leaders are admitting to a breakdown in internal controls that led to it hiring many more nurses than budgeted for. ...6 hours ago
- I have a stuffy nose, how can I tell if it’s hay fever, COVID or something else?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Deryn Thompson, Eczema and Allergy Nurse; Lecturer, University of South Australia Lysenko Andrii/Shutterstock Hay fever (also called allergic rhinitis) affects 24% of Australians. Symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose (which may feel blocked or stuffy) and itchy eyes. People can also ...6 hours ago
- Grave cleaning videos are going viral on TikTok. Are they honouring the dead, or exploiting them?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Edith Jennifer Hill, Associate Lecturer, Learning & Teaching Innovation, Flinders University Shutterstock Cleaning the graves of strangers is the latest content trend taking over TikTok. But as millions tune in to watch the videos, it’s becoming clear not all of them ...6 hours ago
- Glaring Inconsistency In New Zealand’s Response To Global Humanitarian Crises
An evidence-based position paper recommending NZ's response to the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza. ...7 hours ago
- Revealed: $10 Million EECA EV Charging Contracts Need To Go!
“Under the Emissions Trading Scheme, the Government could spend its entire budget on EV chargers and it wouldn’t reduce emissions by a single gram. This is subsidising already well-off EV drivers, taking people’s hard-earned money to waste on subsidising ...7 hours ago
- Queensland Property Surcharges Refunds For New Zealanders
Commenting on the proposed class action, John Walker from litigation funder CASL said, “With the average property price in Queensland exceeding AU$885,400, affected New Zealand-based purchasers could be entitled to substantial refunds if the legal ...7 hours ago
- Deep Concerns As TVNZ Signal More Significant Changes
E tū Negotiation Specialist, Michael Wood, has called for full and meaningful engagement as these proposals are considered, emphasising the potential risks to both TVNZ and the country’s media ecosystem. ...8 hours ago
- Vape Law Changes Could Kill, Dairy Owners Warn Parliament
“How could 200,000 fewer daily smokers from vaping be a bad thing?” asked Ash Parmar the Group’s Vice-chair. ...8 hours ago
- Fast Track Listing Win For Te Ārai Development
Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust welcomes the news that Te Ārai South Precinct and Regional Park Integrated Development Plan has been listed as a project for the Fast Track Approvals Bill . The project is an integrated development of ...8 hours ago
- Should you need a permit to protest? Here’s why that’s a bad idea (and might be unlawful)
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Maria O’Sullivan, Associate Professor of Law, Member of Law as Protection Centre, Deakin Law School, Deakin University Australians’ ability to protest has again been in the news this week. Against the background of an armed conflict in the Middle East and rallies ...9 hours ago
- An unbroken night’s sleep is a myth. Here’s what good sleep looks like
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Reynolds, Associate Professor in Clinical Sleep Health, Flinders University Bricolage/Shutterstock What do you imagine a good night’s sleep to be? Often when people come into our sleep clinic seeking treatment, they share ideas about healthy sleep. Many think when ...9 hours ago
- Manawanui sinking: an expert explains why a speedy cleanup will be crucial – and the main challeng...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christopher Battershill, Professor in Coastal Science, University of Waikato HMNZS Manawanui arrives at Devonport Naval Base in 2019 still bearing its original Norwegian name, Edda Fonn. Getty Images Speed will be of the essence as salvage crews attempt to stop fuel leaking ...9 hours ago
- The Unity Books children’s book review roundup for spring
The booksellers of Unity Books Auckland and Wellington review a handful of children’s books sure to delight and inspire readers of all ages. AUCKLAND Reviews by Elka Aitchison and Roger Christensen, booksellers at Unity Books Auckland Glasgow Boys by Margaret McDonald – (Ages 14+) You’ll easily fall in love with ...9 hours ago
- Palmerston North Hospital’s under-pressure ED gets $6 million boost
Health Minister Shane Reti says $6 million allocated to Palmerston North Hospital's ED will help ease waiting times and improve patient care and safety. ...9 hours ago
- Dairy owners say new vape laws could risk worker safety
Ash Parmar told MPs the changes would make vapes harder to see in dairies - and also harder to steal. ...9 hours ago
- Public Demands Transparency On The Sinking Of The HMNZS Manawanui
“The reasons for the demise of the HMNZS Manawanui must be made known” said a spokesman for the Taxpayers’ Union, Sam Warren. ...9 hours ago
- Offshore wind company doubles-down on opposition to seabed mining
But the company proposing to mine the Taranaki seabed says they were there first. ...10 hours ago
- Health NZ deficit balloons to $1.76 billion
Te Whatu Ora will continue to lose about $147 million a month if nothing changes, a select committee briefing paper says. ...10 hours ago
- Former political figure found guilty of historical sexual abuse takes secrecy fight to High Court
Interim name suppression the man has now had for 622 days will continue until at least his name suppression appeal hearing. ...11 hours ago
- The Spinoff guide to life: How to swim in a public pool
Here’s how to avoid being a pain in the arse while you’re swimming. With summer just around the corner and school holidays in full swing, your local pools have probably been busier than usual. Whether you’ve decided to start training for a triathlon, shred for summer, or take up swimming ...11 hours ago
- Jen & the Dahlia kids | Home Education | The Spinoff
“A beautiful way to live” | Watch the full series: http://thespinoff.co.nz/videos/home-education 🌸 Three years ago, Jen gave her kids $100 to start a business as a learning project. Today, the dahlia farm is thriving, with almost 4,000 plants. “It’s a beautiful way to live,” says Jen. Gracie, Milly and Lexie ...11 hours ago
- Home Education: Jen and the dahlia kids
Home Education follows the everyday lives of six families in Aotearoa educating their children at home. Meet Jen and the dahlia kids, learning through a flower business. The new docuseries Home Education is filmed across Aotearoa, in and around the homes of six families who have taken schooling ...11 hours ago
- Landlord fails in bid to evict 80-year-old tenant over $5000 unpaid rent
Life is tough for many pensioners, particularly those paying rent, financial mentors say. ...12 hours ago
- By the numbers: Projects on the fast track
On Sunday, the list of projects selected for fast tracking under a controversial proposed law was released. The Spinoff takes a look at the numbers. The Fast-track Approval Bill is a proposed new law that would change the process of getting approval for major projects with national significance. Instead of ...12 hours ago
- ‘Piles and piles of obstacles’ to building gone under fast-track – developer
One of Wellington's most prominent property developers says the government's fast-track legislation makes him excited about building. ...12 hours ago
- The Time Is Now To Sell TVNZ
Taxpayer’s Union Communications Officer, Alex Emes, said: “It’s nice that TVNZ is finally looking to cut costs and start showing an interest in cleaning up the financial boondoggle they have got themselves into.” ...13 hours ago
- Failure to launch: why the Albanese government is in trouble
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol Johnson, Emerita Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Adelaide It wasn’t meant to be like this. In her 2022 study of Anthony Albanese, Katharine Murphy describes a prime minister who thought he’d be successfully managing an idealistic, ...14 hours ago
- Failure to launch: why the Albanese government is in trouble
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol Johnson, Emerita Professor, Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Adelaide It wasn’t meant to be like this. In her 2022 study of Anthony Albanese, Katharine Murphy describes a prime minister who thought he’d be successfully managing an idealistic, ...14 hours ago
- One of science’s greatest achievements: how the rapid development of COVID vaccines prepares us fo...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Griffin, Professor, Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, The University of Queensland Since COVID was first reported in December 2019, there have been more than 775 million recorded infections and more than 7 million deaths from the disease. This makes COVID the seventh-deadliest ...14 hours ago
The world is now a better place.
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/01/world-reacts-ariel-sharon-death-2014111133236765101.html
http://www.hrw.org/news/2014/01/11/israel-ariel-sharon-s-troubling-legacy
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/1156796.stm
I don’t blame them.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/middle-east/9601000/Palestinians-cheer-Sharons-death
RIH
(rot in hell)
A reminder of the debate we have been missing for the last three months from Rod Oram last year.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/opinion-analysis/9107225/Rod-Oram-Time-for-economic-leadership
If this debate about economic progress is not successfully launched, National will likely win the 2014 election on the back of a temporary sugar-rush from insurance money and good grass-growing weather.
I hear Cunliffe is readying his speech to counter Key’s upcoming 2014 scene-setter, by the weekend of 2 Feb at least. Better be the start of something good, not just another unsupported set-peice wonder like last time.
Well they have got to get rid of the dead wood first and foremost. You can’t win any contest no matter what it is if you don’t have unity in your camp. And there is no unity in the Labour camp. So there has to be a huge clean out. Or voters will start to leave them in droves.
Because Honestly, who in their right mind would vote Mallard back in to Parliament. Just so he can fatten his wallet for the next 3 years.
And there are others that do nothing but eat their lunch, and collect huge pay packets.
Mallard is totally toxic. I used to watch him prepping Jacinda Ardern at question time. It was really creepy, as if he wouldn’t let her think for herself. I don’t know if she ever wanted to, but the influence that Mallard and Goff, in particular, have on new members is malign. They need to go. We should not be paying them to mould the new generation in their horrible image.
Yes. Jacinda Ardern is a nice person and unquestionably talented but I had the impression the ABCers were using her. They put her on the front bench without sufficient experience and they wouldn’t let her fly. I hope Cunliffe will give her free rein to show her strengths.
Even so, she did a good job laying the trap for Paula Bennett to expose herself in all her selfish, self centred and mentally challenged glory:
http://thestandard.org.nz/nrt-paula-bennett-giggles-at-child-poverty/
Christchurch….rapidly becoming a city of haves and have nots.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/money/9594618/Income-gap-is-wider-census
Yet the media will try to frame issues as important that will increase Colin Craig’s vote….
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/9600491/Smacking-debate-back-in-the-limelight
Interesting that, on top of that, Dotcom is launching a party.
He would likely appeal to libertarianz plus some lefties. Dotcom is a capitalist, though. He just wants to shift the neoliberals into the digital age and get himself a piece of the pie and of the power.
And the young, maybe?
The naive, the disengaged, and the infirm.
dunno about the infirm…
The dotcom party will probably have a focus on civil liberties, copyright reform and data comms infrastructure, and will have policies from across the entire spectrum.
millsy
I was listening this morning to someone who was referring to the aspect of the open internet that the RWNJs are currently trying to shut down in the USA. If Dotcom can act in his own interests to fight that, it will be in our interests too.
Wikipedia on Net Neutrality which we should keep in a top corner of our minds.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FCC_Open_Internet_Order_2010#Rules
I think Wayne Brittenden spoke on it – I think it was a repeat. Here is an item to look up and listen to on security. He is good.
Wayne Brittenden’s Counterpoint ( 17′ 59″ )
Wayne looks at growing demands for new restraints on the US National Security Agency operations and Chris follows up with acclaimed German writer Ilija Trojanow, a formidable critic of the NSA. Please note Wayne’s on-line audio in this item is an updated version of what was played on Sunday Morning.
From Sunday Morning on 27 Oct 2013
and Tim Berners-Lee – here is some stuff from Radio nz on his views very important ones. He was here last year.
Inventor Sir Tim Berners-Lee says web neutrality crucial Berners-Lee warns of surveillance perils. Worldwide web creator Sir Tim Berners-Lee has warned the democratic benefits of the internet are under threat.
Updated at 7:00 am on 24 November 2013 From News
World wide web inventor critical of spy agencies
The inventor of the world wide web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, has criticised spy agencies for cracking much of the online encryption used to guard data privacy.
Updated at 4:53 am on 9 November 2013
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the British computer scientist credited with inventing the world wide web, has warned New Zealanders not to allow governments and companies to control the internet.
Updated at 6:12 am on 1 February 2013
Saturday Morning for Saturday, 2 February 2013
http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/saturday/20130202
Tim Berners-Lee, creator of the internet,
8:15 Tim Berners-Lee
Sir Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web in 1989. He is a Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Southampton, director of the World Wide Web Consortium, and founder of the World Wide Web Foundation. He has promoted open government data globally and is a member of the UK’s Transparency Board. Sir Tim visited Wellington as a guest of InternetNZ to deliver a public lecture exploring the benefits of an open Internet.
Will siphon off enough techie Act supporters – in Epsom and elsewhere – to definitively keep them out of Key’s options. Serves our purpose.
“Will siphon off enough techie Act supporters – in Epsom and elsewhere – to definitively keep them out of Key’s options. Serves our purpose.”
Or, he will split the vote elsewhere, and cost the left the election. Or get votes that otherwise would have gone to the GP. And if he becomes kingmaker, what’s to sy he doesn’t go with National if he gets the concessions he wants around IT, privacy and security? This is a man that donated political money to John Banks for gods sake.
Yes Dotcom might be the man for the time even if not one to look to for long.
It was apparent during the meetings regarding the GCSB that Dotcom was undergoing some kind of metamorphosis. I attended the protests and the meeting at Mt Albert, but was away for the one at the Town Hall.
There was a definite difference in the old hand speakers – who are perhaps more used to speaking out publicly on issues – and those who were fairly new to the process – such as Dotcom and Thomas Beagle.
I remember thinking at the time how disconcerting it must be for Dotcom to realise that all the “anonymous” donations in the world mean diddly-squat when others (FBI, US) can let your recipients in to the cool kid’s party. And he attended those meetings and protests surrounded by environmentalists, “bleeding hearts” and lefties that were prepared to defend solely on the basis that it was not right. A strange world for him I’m guessing, after courting the likes of John Banks.
Wondered whether it would result in a political awakening of sorts for him, especially after watching him on the Youtube video of the GCSB protest at the Town Hall while Dr Russell Norman was speaking. (From 1:13:45)
Would it not be sensible for Dotcom to also give some donations to labour, Mana and the Greens? A couple of mill would go a long way towards having coalition parthners that respect your general stance.
I think most of his funds are still frozen, apart from a living allowance…which admittedly seems quite generous…
Not wanting to bore people here, but had to mention today’s Oil Free Otago demonstration blockade of the Dunedin/ Otakou harbour one last time. The weather looks like it may pack it in by evening, but it should be fine with maybe a bit of drizzle at 2pm. Bus leaves Countdown at noon, or be out at; Back Beach, Port Chalmers, by 12:30pm. Bring as many life-jackets as you can if you’ve got them.
Nga mihi nui.
Can’t see any mention of this in the ODT?
An omission or is the paper hostile to anti oil protests?
Paul
The ODT has been shilling for Shell all this week, so yes; “hostile to anti oil protests”. There was a bit of a promo for the Friday art show, but note the article title (which is reasonable enough in the main text) that seems calculated by an editor to suggest hypocracy. Hopefully they’ll have to take notice after today though.
http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/287733/oils-used-part-shore-drilling-protest
Reading the comments below the article is depressing.
Insular, regressive, self-centred, uneducated, boorish….
NZ…rapidly becoming a country that makes the Southern States of the USA look progressive.
Might help lift your spirits to read the most liked comments on the Heralds editorial NZ should relish Shell’s show of confidence. The majority of comments were dismissive of the article and it’s assertions.
Had to check that I was on the right website.
Yes, that is good to hear.
I’ve seen that before on the Herald site. A lot of its readers don’t appear to side with its editorial stance.
A post is now up. http://thestandard.org.nz/oil-free-otagos-day-of-action/
Hi folks
In case you missed this – FYI.
http://www.3news.co.nz/McCready-alleges-corruption-against-Len-Brown/tabid/1607/articleID/328072/Default.aspx
McCready alleges corruption against Len Brown
http://www.3news.co.nz
Wellington accountant Graham McCready has shown 3 News the criminal charges he plans to file against Len Brown next week.
_____________________________________________________________________________
If the SFO choose not to re-evaluate the bribery and corruption complaint made by Lisa Prager and myself, then on Wednesday 15 January 2014, the above-mentioned documents will be filed in the Auckland District Court for a private prosecution.
FYI, a copy of this revised complaint to the SFO can be found on http://www.pennybright4mayor.org.nz, along with other supporting background information.
IMO, there is a LOT more to come on this contemptible story of corrupt, corporate, casino cronyism – and it goes right to the top.
Ever wondered why John Key hasn’t joined the growing group of those calling for Mayor Len Brown to step down?
I respectfully suggest you consider this point, and think very hard about whose interests Mayor Len Brown has been serving………….
Penny Bright
Cv Dotcoms Megaupload funds are frozen but his new ventures are not.
Indeed, but new ventures cost money, not make money, at least for a while.
In todays Stuff poll (I know, not the least scientific….) on the new shark finning legislation 70% of respondents say it should have been a blanket ban from the start. Another crappy piece of legislation from this government that bows to the commercial fishing lobby.
(go to http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/9600491/Smacking-debate-back-in-the-limelight and then vote on the right)
Wow. That surprised me. This site actually opened up in Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 running Internet Explorer 5. Didn’t look to well laid out. But it did actually sort of work.
Just looking through my old virtual machines to decide which ones to keep.
The War Over Poverty
And that is the major problem with capitalism. All the fruits of society go to the few while the rest become worse off.
How to we change this? Change the system.
That piece of graffiti I once saw in Aro Valley moons ago came 30 years too soon:
“Mutate before the rush …… Smash the Cistern!”
Tim LOL
Watching Ken Loach’s documentary “The Spirit of 45” http://www.thespiritof45.com/, was like watching “Back to the Future”, particularly when a miner is interviewed about being payed by how much coal is produced, and watching a friend die because they filled another trolley rather than place the props…..
Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi: Tedeschi Trucks Band – Full Concert.
http://www.youtube.com/embed/gCurZqSDIOM
an interesting opinion piece, a little bit about lew pryme, i see his records all the time, didnt know he was so involved in nz rugby. http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/opinion/9600399/Gifford-Homophobia-sports-next-big-challenge
I knew layed rugby – I think I saw him play over at Cornwall Park once. Didn’t know that about him haviing AIDs – I was in the UK at the time.
This howler from Rodney Hide announcing he won’t have a go at ACT leadership and the rotten borough of Epsom:
“I now don’t have the necessary passion and enthusiasm to do the job well. Yes, I loved it and I gave it everything I had, and then some. But it’s gone now. I am not sure why that is. It just is.”
He then took a swipe at NZ First leader WInston Peters, calling him an “aged rock star who has partied way too hard and is now up on stage trying to relive the glory days”.
“New MPs snigger at him. There was a time he would have swatted them down like flies.”
Hide said it was sad…….
Piss Off Love Perks – got no particular brief for Winston but you, you, havin’ a go at Winston ????????
Hide is more sincere about his stated political positions than others I can mention. And the man comes from a solid working class background.
Well CV unfortunately there are many who come from a working class background who soon forget their roots when they obtain big money.,I slot them as traitorous bastards to be viewed with contempt.A very good example is P Bennett ,a very good example of one who deserves nothing but contempt. And dont forget the many working people who supported Mosley’s Blackshirt’s. Don’t forget our own Kiwi workers who voted for “That nice Mr Key’ .We also have many wealthy people who have political beliefs that are surely L
Eek!.
http://www.upworthy.com/l-ron-hubbards-great-grandson-spills-the-family-secrets-on-how-scientology-started-eek