How badly does illegal downloading actually effect these companies?
I mean the music business still keeps churning out artists, movies are breaking records etc etc
Personally I think CDs (yes yes I’m a dinosaur) are way over-priced, movie tickets (and the food they sell) are exorbitant and video rental store prices used to be way over the top
The Warehouse (NZ’s biggest music retailer) has posted double-digit declines in the sales of CDs and DVDs, apparently for the 2nd or 3rd year in a row.
CD and DVD prices will probably eventually decline, or be replaced out-right by digital distribution which will probably be cheaper.
Liner notes
Albums
Cover art
Sound quality
You can loan/borrow them. (goes triple for dead tree books)
On the cost, they are expensive in comparison to mp3s, but when I get a cd the chances are I’m going to listen to it certainly dozens of times, probably hundreds, possibly thousands. Books, video games, movies? Not so much.
Unless you’ve got a high end sound system 320kb mp3’s are the same quality as CD’s in a blind test đ
And yeah, while you can’t lend them out the price difference on ebooks makes them really attractive, on top of the fact it takes months sometimes for a new book (hard sci-fi in my case) to turn up in NZ whereas I can get an ebook in less than a minute. Though it’s somewhat dependent on the publishers not being douchebags and putting regional restrictions in.
For me this goes for music, TV and films. The view that newest is best and/or that it’s really important to be up with the latest shiny thing, is a hyper-capitalist con, largely being promoted by US corporates. And the Internet has helped spread this mythology.
And not to say anything about the car sound system. Mine don’t even take cds’ no disc at all hence no skip no dirt, and gunk on CD that makes it weird. it takes Memory sticks., Sdram cards and anything with an 8mm jack out put and all for 70 bucks. I put it in my self and I have a 4 GIG memory stick that’s on Random play and I still haven’t heard a repeat yet. And I can plug my Laptop in as well for even more music. All on MP3 at 320 (CD quality)
It is true that the decision to buy a CD and the time and effort to actually purchase it means IMHO that the music on a CD is valued more then that which is downloaded (but the cost…)
How many here are happy with the adversarial dominant parliament we currently have, where bringing down the government or other parties is a major focus of attention?
We need an opposition, and examination of the behaviour of the government. That’s “adversarial” I guess. But we don’t need all the petty personality stuff. We don’t need the continual war.
Trouble is, I don’t see how you can draw the line, or prevent valid examination from turning in to continual petty warfare. And I don’t have a better system to propose (well, not within the bounds of a Westminster system anyway).
Silly question and it ignores the fact that there are significant differences between the parties. Â One is a bunch of rich intent on looking after themselves and their mates to the detriment of the poor. Â The other is committed to managing New Zealand for all Kiwis and making the country socially, financially and environmentally sustainable.
Of course it is adversarial. Â The differences of opinion guarantee that this happens.
PeteG, it’s not so much that there would be not enough conflict but, rather, that your perspective seems to be overestimating (or just over-assuming) the degree of consensus there actually is. Your position probably stems from the false consensus effect.
Anyone else feeling conflicted about voting Green or Mana? I guess for me it will come down to strategic voting and that won’t be apparent until closer to the election and we can see what Mana are standing where. I’m wondering how much of the Green vote will move to Mana. Not that that’s a bad thing, the Greens need to get their shit together anyway and this may prompt them, but I hope the Greens and Mana can look at accomodations.
Anyone else feeling conflicted about voting Green or Mana?
Yep, I am. I’d like to vote for Mana but they have a serious lack of policy to vote for ATM. They’re making most of the right noises but those noises need to backed up with policy.
I will vote Green. Mana already has a strong core constituency& will have 1 MP at least. The left needs a strong Green Party list vote. They also will work with Mana, and Greens have some really good political expertise & systems.
A recent BRANZ study has found that 59% of New Zealand houses are not maintained properly. It found many common defects in the houses studied, such as poor under-floor ventilation, inadequate clearance of wall cladding from the ground, missing or corroding sub-floor fasteners and poor maintenance of timber windows. 25% of the houses surveyed were in particular poor condition.
Households participating in the study fall into two categories; those that participated in the phone survey as well as an on sight physical survey (assessed), and secondly households that participated in the phone survey but did not have a physical survey (non-assessed).
It appears that 23% of the assessed dwellings and 39.7% of non-assessed houses surveyed are rented.
As previously discussed on here, Horizon’s methodology has some “issues”. So it’s probably better to look at the trend over time within their own polling, rather than the party vote numbers in isolation (I doubt that the two main parties are as low as Horizon says).
The trend is … good for ACT and Labour, and also for Mana (from a starting point of zero, so they could hardly go down!).
But is supposed to be a walkover for Key and his governing alone. (Maybe he might need a few Ministers to help but his ego and sense of entitlement means he couls do it alone.) đ
The latest instalment in the effort by Government and the MSM to soften us up to the idea of being policed by an international police force was published in the Sunday Star times today:
This is the fourth time NZ and Aussie cops have run a coordinated operation described as a ‘crackdown on drunken-ness and violence’ and while the media has been very accommodating in trumpeting the success of the ‘operation’ the glaring omission in the articles has been a lack of rationale for an international operation.
Drunken-ness and violence is not suddenly going to spill over the ditch from Australia in one weekend unless, in an inspired moment of lawlessness the offenders happen to highjack airplanes and fly here.
In addition, given the difference in time zones between the two countries any ‘operation’ is going to be staggered in terms of implementation and essentially disconnected in any real physical sense – so why bother?
There is only one scenario in which this kind of coordinated policing across international borders would be required – mass civilian unrest, the kind that is not limited to just one country.
Since there will be some that say ‘what about the RWC? wont we need make sure that all those rugby fans donât cause bother with their celebrations/ commiserations’ – I will respond in advance simply by referring to my earlier point ie that the physical and temporal disconnect between our two countries renders coordinated policing redundant.
Quite clearly practicing civilian control measures simultaneously across international borders is preparation for a specific occurrence – and I am not talking about a rugby game.
I mentioned softening up, and thatâs because this is just the beginning – wait as Aussie police are welcomed back to NZ to help us deal with the crowds at the RWC (no doubt with carefully orchestrated airport applause, or – gag – standing ovation)
I may sound anti-authoritarian – and that would be a fair assessment – but all that I am asking for in this instance is some honesty and transparency in regard to these ‘operations’ – if the cops want to practice simultaneous civilian control with their Australian counterparts so be it – but they should front up about the reasons why and not try and pretend that arresting drunks across the ditch on the same weekend as us has any effect whatsoever on our ability to deal with our own.
“There is only one scenario in which this kind of coordinated policing across international borders would be required â mass civilian unrest, the kind that is not limited to just one country.”
Your are so right Campbell Larsen. The TPPA needs to have enforcers because when people finally begin to understand just how badly their darling John Key has betrayed them for his knighthood/30 pieces of silver/governor general/shares in SOEs… they will take to the streets. It will be too late of course because by the end of the year this government will have sold the rights to New Zealand and passed to the pondscum elite the Treasury key.
If ever there was a time to scream out a “VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN THIS GOVERNMENT OF NACTMU”, it must be before the TPPA is signed off.
Yep, agreed, there was and is no justification for coordination of these types of policing except as practice for more nefarious purposes. Think check points and travel papers.
The Sunday Star Times editorial today (only in print version) indicates part of the MSM are waking up to what many of us have known for a long time:
Key’s pleasantness will one day look like blandness and lack of vision. His smiley face will eventually symbolise vapidity and self-satisfaction. His pragmatism will in due course strike many voters as lack of policy and an absence of ideas. And one day his natural conservatism will come to seem like hollowness. The flipside of all his virtues can be seen even now, although the shadow hasn’t fallen across the polls.
Can’t argue so far but then comes the bullshit:
Some time in the second term the perceptions will change.
This is the second time in a week that I have read an editorial which just asssumes that National & Key will win a second term. This alongside the “Goff can’t win” mantra seems to be the way the game’s being played by the MSM – repeat something enough and the people will believe it.
What I am sure of is there will be a point at which there is a collective realisation that Key is just the vacuous frontman for a nasty right wing agenda that aims to destroy what is left to feel proud of in this country. At that point the backlash will be severe. The big question is whether this occurs before or after the up coming election. If Key does lead the next government I predict he will make a hasty exit in the hope that he can get out before the moment of realisation arrives. The most important thing to Key right now is protecting his legacy.
Yes Susan and “The most important thing to Key right now is protecting his legacy.” So true. But that knighthood? How can he serve office for one term or one and a bit, and still get his “Sir John Key, Right Honorable Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, Money Dealer Extrordinaire, Governor Designate 2014, Celebrity 2008-2011.”
What matters, of course, is not the details (of interest to 0.01% of voters) but the headline. The Horizon poll is already attracting media attention (Radio NZ, Radio Live, Stuff). And Don Brash is talking it up, as you’d expect.
In fact, the Horizon poll has always been out of line with the others. Contrast with the latest Morgan poll, which showed little change. But here’s the thing … Change is news. No change is not news.
So there was no media coverage at all of the last Morgan poll (literally none at all – try and find it mentioned anywhere!). It may have been more accurate, but it wasn’t news.
But the Spinner’s job is to ignore the details and cash in on the headline. The Horizon poll shows a 3% jump for Labour. Therefore Phil Goff should be appearing in all media NOW trumpeting Labour’s leap (you can write the lines in five minutes, scary Brash is back, National falling, voters coming home to Labour, etc, etc). Repeat: All media. NOW.
Sadly, on past performance, Labour’s lethargic losers will respond to this poll in a forgettable media release some time on Tuesday.
Therefore Phil Goff should be appearing in all media NOW trumpeting Labourâs leap (you can write the lines in five minutes, scary Brash is back, National falling, voters coming home to Labour, etc, etc). Repeat: All media. NOW.
Exactly. I’d add; Brash is back, National falling as voters switch to Labour, Key has to make a choice for once, will he rule out Brash?
Thanks for this, Bunji. I also notice that the ACT women MPs are particularly strong on cutting back on the WomenâsAffairs Ministry. It seems to rankle with their fantasy of individualism, and their anti-âcollectivistâ principles.
But, given that the ACT male MPs have a record of sexual/gender harrassment and bullying, the ACT women seem to me to be colluding with, and/or accepting of the way they are demeaned and kept in a secondary positon in the party. This all exposes the neoliberal fantasy of a society of equally âfreeâ & sovereign individuals, with equal amounts of, or access to power.”
I hope Carol will not mind me quoting her but it needs to be highlighted that if Act gets high votes in this election the rights of women will be reduced further. We’ve seen how Brash has behaved towards the women in his caucus.
The sad thing is that the Act women actually believe the men of Act actually see them as equal.
In the French revolution the men saw the women as equal until the revolution was sewn up and then the women were sent back to reality and to inequality.
Act which is at present controlling National would pretend to see women as being equal, but espouse the same beliefs as National – women will be made redundant as much as possible and forced to work in aged care, the men encouraged to believe women are taking their jobs.
Act cabinet members will be sidelined increasingly as Brash has done in the past, as Key has done in the past, unless they are in positions where women cabinet ministers destroy the futures of other women.
I’m glad Brash isn’t being called a ‘gentleman’ anymore; he never was.
As for how he would see the place of women in this society and the value they are held in – at a MOTU meeting, Jenny Gibbs, who has openly campaigned against the Suffragist Memorial Tiles in Lower Khartoum Place being retained, was asking the speaker Don Brash patsy questions, so gives you a good idea about that! If you are rich he will use you. If you are poor he will abuse you.
I love it how they give Family First so much space, instead of say noting the legal and human rights issues that lead to parental notification being optional, along with legitimising what was likely a flawed poll.
They weren’t murderers or anything; they had merely stolen more money than most people can rationally conceive of, from their own customers, in a few blinks of an eye. But then they went one step further. They came to Washington, took an oath before Congress, and lied about it.
Thanks to an extraordinary investigative effort by a Senate subcommittee that unilaterally decided to take up the burden the criminal justice system has repeatedly refused to shoulder, we now know exactly what Goldman Sachs executives like Lloyd Blankfein and Daniel Sparks lied about. We know exactly how they and other top Goldman executives, including David Viniar and Thomas Montag, defrauded their clients. America has been waiting for a case to bring against Wall Street. Here it is, and the evidence has been gift-wrapped and left at the doorstep of federal prosecutors, evidence that doesn’t leave much doubt: Goldman Sachs should stand trial.
And wasn’t someone saying that we should listen to these people about some financial deals going through the other day?
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 â as may be discerned from the screenshot above â 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 Governmentâs 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 –Â 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 â 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 governmentâs readiness to make urgent changes to âthe resource management systemâ through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes donât 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 âmedia summitâ to discuss âthe state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalismâ. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes –Â 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 âfast trackâ 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 â 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-Â 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 arenât 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 âSince 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 âNew Zealandâs economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerfulâ. They also believe that âNew Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerfulâ. 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: ...
âYou talking about me?âThe 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 Hallâs âGlide Timeâ caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
Roger Partridge writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
Our two-tiered system for veteransâ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veteransâ affairs spokesperson Greg OâConnor said. ...
Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxonâs 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 yearâs 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, Labourâs 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 countryâs 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 Governmentâs Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a âget out of jail freeâ 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 Zealandâs good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National governmentâs 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 TÄmaki 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 Governmentâs democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Governmentâs 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 thatâs great for the planet and great for consumers after her memberâs 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 countryâs books after Teanau Tuionoâs membersâ 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 memberâs bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Todayâs 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 Governmentâs newly announced review of methane emissions reduction targets hints at its desire to delay Aotearoa New Zealandâs urgent transition to a climate safe future, the Green Party said. ...
The Government must commit to the Maitai School building project for students with high and complex needs, to ensure disabled students from the top of the South Island have somewhere to learn. ...
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey and his Government colleagues have made a meal of their mental health commitments, showing how flimsy their efforts to champion the issue truly are, says Labour Mental Health spokesperson Ingrid Leary. ...
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. âOur 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 Zealandâs hydrogen future, with the opening of the countryâs first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. âI 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 Zealandâs own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealandâs 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. âThe report shows that New Zealandâs emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,â Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where heâll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Governmentâs work to restore law and order. âAttending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealandâs human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the worldâs largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. âThe reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealandâs 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  NgÄ 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. âOur 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 Zealandâs overseas missions.  âOur diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealandâs interests around the world,â Mr Peters says.  âI 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. Â âOver 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. âIt 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. âOur coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
âChina remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,â 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. âRecently 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 Teachersâ 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.  âThe 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. âScience, 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 todayâs 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. âThe Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in TaupĆ as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the TaupĆ International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. âAnticipation for the ITM TaupĆ 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. âThe 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. âThis project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sectorâs productivity,â Mr Jones says. âThe project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Governmentâs plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. âBenefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Governmentâs commitment to doubling New Zealandâs 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 Zealandâs 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. âOur 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. âNew 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 Governmentâs intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. âThe introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
Todayâs 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 Governmentâs plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. âInflation 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 sectorâs role in the export-led recovery of the economy. âI 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 Governmentâs support for the revitalisation the sector.  "New Zealandâs wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. âThe inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. âMy meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra With Jim Chalmersâs third budget on May 14, Australians will be looking for some more cost-of-living relief â beyond the tax cuts â 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 Leeâs recent judgement in Bruce Lehrmannâs defamation case against Channel Ten. Many people were openly relieved to read Leeâs âforensicâ and ânuancedâ 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). Itâs 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 Taxpayersâ 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 âsix decades of treacheryâ 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 Magazineâs 100 most influential people of 2024, Lauren Groff.The book I wish Iâd writtenIf I wish Iâd 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 ...
âThree 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.â ...
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 tribunalâs 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 Wallaceâs debut novel. A famous poet once said to me that heâs always suspicious when a poet publishes a novel. I never really understood why but maybe itâs something to do with cheating on your first form. Louise Wallace is a poet. Sheâs ...
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 whÄnau 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 âoutlook not greatâ 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 Spinoffâs 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, itâs not only to honour the soldiers who lost their lives in World War I and subsequent conflicts, but also ...
A leaked document shows the Canterbury/Waitaha arm of health agency Te Whatu Ora is scurrying to save $13.3 million by July. The âfinancial sustainability targetâ, which was âallocatedâ to Waitaha, is consistent with whatâs happening in other districts, says Sarah Dalton, executive director of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists. ...
A look at the state of the previous governmentâs affordable housing scheme, and what could come next.Remind me: Whatâs KiwiBuild again?First announced in 2012, KiwiBuild was a flagship policy of the Labour Party heading into both its 2014 and 2017 election campaigns. With Jacinda Ardern as prime minister, ...
Labour in opposition will be shocked to learn which party had six years in power but squandered any chance to make real change. Grant Robertsonâs valedictory speech was a predictably entertaining trip down memory lane. The acid-tongued incoming Otago University chancellor administered a sick burn to the coalition government. He ...
Taiwanâs semiconductor industry is seen some as its ‘silicon shield’ against invasion – but how will overseas expansion affect that protection? The post The state of Taiwan’s silicon shield appeared first on Newsroom. ...
There’s relief for building owners bending under the weight of earthquake strengthening rules â and costs â that came into force seven years ago. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk has announced a scheduled 2027 review of the earthquake-prone building regulations will now start this year. Owners will also get ...
Opinion: It has been announced that nine percent of roles at Oranga Tamariki will be disestablished, presumably to help fund the tax cuts promised by the coalition Government. I am reminded of the graphics used to illustrate pandemic events, where five thousand people are standing in a field and then ...
After more than two sleepless days, running through savage terrain, Greig Hamilton didnât know if he was going to finish one of the most gruelling psychological assaults in sport. He was metres away from the finish line, a yellow gate made famous in a Netflix documentary; a race heâd dreamed ...
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, Wednesday 24 April appeared first on Newsroom. ...
The following interview with former Green Party MP Sue Kedgley came about because she features in the new memoir Hine Toa by activist NgÄhuia te AwekĆtuku; the two knew each other at the University of Auckland in the early 70s, when they were both took on leadership roles in the ...
COMMENTARY:By Murray Horton New Zealand needs to get tough with Israel. Itâs not as if we havenât done so before. When NZ authorities busted a Mossad operation in Auckland 20 years ago, the government didnât say: âOh well, Israel has the right to defend itself.â No, it arrested, prosecuted, ...
NEWSMAKERS:By Vijay Narayan, news director of FijiVillage Blessed to be part of the University of Fiji (UniFiji) faculty to continue to teach and mentor those who want to join our noble profession, and to stand for truth and justice for the people of the country. I was privileged to ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Martin, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University Three weeks from now, some of us will be presented with a mountain of budget papers, and just about all of us will get to hear about them on radio, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Lowry, Ice Sheet & Climate Modeller, GNS Science Hugh Chittock/Antarctica New Zealand, CC BY-SA As the climate warms and Antarcticaâs glaciers and ice sheets melt, the resulting rise in sea level has the potential to displace hundreds of millions of ...
The government's plan to reintroduce a three strikes regime is being strongly opposed by lawyers, who argue there is no evidence it reduces crime or helps people rehabilitate. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dan Jerker B. Svantesson, Professor specialising in Internet law, Bond University Do Australian courts have the right to decide what foreign citizens, located overseas, view online on a foreign-owned platform? Anyone inclined to answer âyesâ to this question should perhaps also ask ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Giovanni E Ferreira, NHMRC Emerging Leader Research Fellow, Institute of Musculoskeletal Health, University of Sydney Last week in a post on X, owner of the platform Elon Musk recommended people look into disc replacement if theyâre experiencing severe neck or back pain. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University anek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey caught the headlines yesterday, courtesy of a blistering speech condemning the latest GST carve-up. New South Wales, he claimed, would be A$11.9 billion worse off over the ...
While police are "broadly in favour", the government's proposed anti-gang laws are facing pushback from lawyers, rights groups and former gang members. ...
While police are "broadly in favour", the government's proposed anti-gang laws are facing pushback from lawyers, rights groups and former gang members. ...
By Miriam Zarriga in Port Moresby Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has arrived at Kokoda Station, Northern province, at the start of his state visit to Papua New Guinea. Both Albanese and Prime Minister James Marape will meet with the locals and the Northern Provincial government before they begin their ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Wallace, Professor, School of Politics Economics & Society, Faculty of Business Government & Law, University of Canberra Shutterstock An important principle was invoked by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last week in defence of the governmentâs Future Made in Australia industry ...
A poll last August found that just 16% of New Zealanders oppose bringing back the âThree Strikesâ law. The nationwide poll of 1,000 New Zealanders was commissioned by Family First NZ and carried out by Curia Market Research. ...
The solo show from Ana Scotney is both sprawling and intimate, and a must-see, writes Mad Chapman. In the opening moments of Scattergun: After the Death of RĆ«aumoko, writer and performer Ana Scotney lays out the groundwork, literally. Silently moving around the square stage, Scotney is not so much dancing ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Burridge, Professor of Linguistics, Monash University Who makes the words? Why are trees called trees and why are shoes called shoes and who makes the names? – Elliot, age 5, Eltham, Victoria Good question Elliot! Letâs start with ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Stephen Duckett, Honorary Enterprise Professor, School of Population and Global Health, and Department of General Practice and Primary Care, The University of Melbourne at amRawpixel.com/Shutterstock Roles of health professionals are still unfortunately often stuck in the past. That is, before the ...
COMMENTARY:By Malcolm Evans Last weekâs leaked New York Times staff directive, as to what words can and cannot be used to describe the carnage Israel is raining on Palestinians, is proof positive, since those reports are published verbatim here in New Zealand, that our understanding of the conflict is ...
In the case of New Zealand, the results confirm that there is no popular support for the vicious austerity program being imposed by the National Party-led government, which is backed in all fundamental respects by the opposition Labour Party. ...
The âVampireâ singer has never visited our part of the world, but that might all be about to change. We assess the evidence.Olivia Rodrigoâs Guts World Tour is pulling in massive crowds as it whips around the US and Europe, even helping to catapult regular supporting act Chappell Roan ...
Testing of drinking water in rural Canterbury over the weekend by Greenpeace revealed that several public town supplies were reaching levels of nitrate above 5 mg/L - the threshold which a growing body of scientific evidence has linked to increased ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rohan Fisher, Information Technology for Development Researcher, Charles Darwin University It may come as a surprise to hear 2023 was Australiaâs biggest bushfire season in more than a decade. Fires burned across an area eight times as big as the 2019â20 Black ...
Responding to the Governmentâs announcement of changes to resource management laws, Taxpayersâ Union Executive Director, Jordan Williams, said: âThese changes are a step in the right direction in terms of removing ideological and unworkable ...
More than two years after the Human Rights Council called for the establishment of a national human rights commission, such a body has yet to be formed. ...
Comment:An emergency management system with wide variations in performance, significant capability gaps, funding shortfalls and above all a setup that is not meeting the needs of New Zealanders at times of crisis. The Governmentâs inquiry into the response to Cyclone Gabrielle and other severe weather events in the North ...
http://www.stuff.co.nz/technology/digital-living/5003521/Illegal-downloading-a-favourite-NZ-pastime
How badly does illegal downloading actually effect these companies?
I mean the music business still keeps churning out artists, movies are breaking records etc etc
Personally I think CDs (yes yes I’m a dinosaur) are way over-priced, movie tickets (and the food they sell) are exorbitant and video rental store prices used to be way over the top
The Warehouse (NZ’s biggest music retailer) has posted double-digit declines in the sales of CDs and DVDs, apparently for the 2nd or 3rd year in a row.
CD and DVD prices will probably eventually decline, or be replaced out-right by digital distribution which will probably be cheaper.
I think thats because prices for CDs and DVDs are still too high plus downloading is just so convienent (or so I’ve heard of course)
Why I prefer cd’s:
Liner notes
Albums
Cover art
Sound quality
You can loan/borrow them. (goes triple for dead tree books)
On the cost, they are expensive in comparison to mp3s, but when I get a cd the chances are I’m going to listen to it certainly dozens of times, probably hundreds, possibly thousands. Books, video games, movies? Not so much.
Unless you’ve got a high end sound system 320kb mp3’s are the same quality as CD’s in a blind test đ
And yeah, while you can’t lend them out the price difference on ebooks makes them really attractive, on top of the fact it takes months sometimes for a new book (hard sci-fi in my case) to turn up in NZ whereas I can get an ebook in less than a minute. Though it’s somewhat dependent on the publishers not being douchebags and putting regional restrictions in.
I tend to find that given the number of really good books I have not yet read, the time pressure to buy any given new one? Not high. đ
For me this goes for music, TV and films. The view that newest is best and/or that it’s really important to be up with the latest shiny thing, is a hyper-capitalist con, largely being promoted by US corporates. And the Internet has helped spread this mythology.
Welp, I do have an abundance of free time at present due to being on the sickness benefit + I can eat a 400-500 pg book in one day đ
So cheap and easy to get is better for me.
Libraries are moving more to ebooks that can be accessed fro m home.
And not to say anything about the car sound system. Mine don’t even take cds’ no disc at all hence no skip no dirt, and gunk on CD that makes it weird. it takes Memory sticks., Sdram cards and anything with an 8mm jack out put and all for 70 bucks. I put it in my self and I have a 4 GIG memory stick that’s on Random play and I still haven’t heard a repeat yet. And I can plug my Laptop in as well for even more music. All on MP3 at 320 (CD quality)
It is true that the decision to buy a CD and the time and effort to actually purchase it means IMHO that the music on a CD is valued more then that which is downloaded (but the cost…)
And it’s easier to get to see all of the episodes of your favourite show right up to date and not 2 years behind NZ and no ads. (Or so I have heard)
How many here are happy with the adversarial dominant parliament we currently have, where bringing down the government or other parties is a major focus of attention?
Too negative? Ok? Not enough conflict?
I’m not happy with it at all.
We need an opposition, and examination of the behaviour of the government. That’s “adversarial” I guess. But we don’t need all the petty personality stuff. We don’t need the continual war.
Trouble is, I don’t see how you can draw the line, or prevent valid examination from turning in to continual petty warfare. And I don’t have a better system to propose (well, not within the bounds of a Westminster system anyway).
Silly question and it ignores the fact that there are significant differences between the parties. Â One is a bunch of rich intent on looking after themselves and their mates to the detriment of the poor. Â The other is committed to managing New Zealand for all Kiwis and making the country socially, financially and environmentally sustainable.
Of course it is adversarial. Â The differences of opinion guarantee that this happens.
The problem is its hard to tell which party is which (I mean Phil Goff was/is a Roger Douglas disciple) at times
PeteG, it’s not so much that there would be not enough conflict but, rather, that your perspective seems to be overestimating (or just over-assuming) the degree of consensus there actually is. Your position probably stems from the false consensus effect.
Wow
Sunday Star Times has a full page advertisement with Brash’s letter to Key being reproduced.
Any idea how much it would have cost?
15 to 20 k?
For donkey’s chums, that’s chump change.
These are seen now as their investment opportunities,
i.e. to get their hands on the seat of power
to raid the people’s coffers and assets.
They get in to carry on their unfinished business
and we’re finished.
Australia will be welcoming another wave of Kiwi economic refugees.
it’s heaps.
There’s a rates card for the SST but I don’t know what the pricing signifies – cost per column centimetre? http://www.fairfaxmedia.co.nz/dotAsset/9017.pdf
If it’s column cm, there are 540 column/cms on a full page, $42 each at casual rate in Section A = $22K
Who has paid for the ad?
Don will be very honest about who has been putting the stuffing in his hollowness this time.
Well, it seems that electioneering is now in full swing. How many months before the regulated period starts?
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/5006057/Activist-Minto-eyes-role-in-Mana-Party
This partys just getting better and better
for a few percent of Kiwis, it is. That’s all they’re aiming for.
It’s called diversity. Not everyone’s like you but they have just as much right to a voice in Parliament.
I totally agree
Anyone else feeling conflicted about voting Green or Mana? I guess for me it will come down to strategic voting and that won’t be apparent until closer to the election and we can see what Mana are standing where. I’m wondering how much of the Green vote will move to Mana. Not that that’s a bad thing, the Greens need to get their shit together anyway and this may prompt them, but I hope the Greens and Mana can look at accomodations.
Yep, I am. I’d like to vote for Mana but they have a serious lack of policy to vote for ATM. They’re making most of the right noises but those noises need to backed up with policy.
I will vote Green. Mana already has a strong core constituency& will have 1 MP at least. The left needs a strong Green Party list vote. They also will work with Mana, and Greens have some really good political expertise & systems.
I voted for the maori party and greens last time but Mana will get them both this time.
59% of NZ Houses Not Maintained Properly
http://thejackalman.blogspot.com/2011/05/59-of-nz-houses-not-maintained-properly.html
A recent BRANZ study has found that 59% of New Zealand houses are not maintained properly. It found many common defects in the houses studied, such as poor under-floor ventilation, inadequate clearance of wall cladding from the ground, missing or corroding sub-floor fasteners and poor maintenance of timber windows. 25% of the houses surveyed were in particular poor condition.
How many of those 59% of homes that are not maintained properly are rental units?
One would guess a larger proportion than in the good 31% of houses.
You can download the full report here.
Households participating in the study fall into two categories; those that participated in the phone survey as well as an on sight physical survey (assessed), and secondly households that participated in the phone survey but did not have a physical survey (non-assessed).
It appears that 23% of the assessed dwellings and 39.7% of non-assessed houses surveyed are rented.
Horizon opinion poll out:
http://www.horizonpoll.co.nz/page/122/act-breaks-t
As previously discussed on here, Horizon’s methodology has some “issues”. So it’s probably better to look at the trend over time within their own polling, rather than the party vote numbers in isolation (I doubt that the two main parties are as low as Horizon says).
The trend is … good for ACT and Labour, and also for Mana (from a starting point of zero, so they could hardly go down!).
But is supposed to be a walkover for Key and his governing alone. (Maybe he might need a few Ministers to help but his ego and sense of entitlement means he couls do it alone.) đ
So Don Brash has finally left home.
hmm?
and we hope not to be the butler or delivery man for millionaires’ mansions?
Whose home was he seen leaving?
Operation ‘Unite’
The latest instalment in the effort by Government and the MSM to soften us up to the idea of being policed by an international police force was published in the Sunday Star times today:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5005498/Minors-get-alcohol-in-police-sting
This is the fourth time NZ and Aussie cops have run a coordinated operation described as a ‘crackdown on drunken-ness and violence’ and while the media has been very accommodating in trumpeting the success of the ‘operation’ the glaring omission in the articles has been a lack of rationale for an international operation.
Drunken-ness and violence is not suddenly going to spill over the ditch from Australia in one weekend unless, in an inspired moment of lawlessness the offenders happen to highjack airplanes and fly here.
In addition, given the difference in time zones between the two countries any ‘operation’ is going to be staggered in terms of implementation and essentially disconnected in any real physical sense – so why bother?
There is only one scenario in which this kind of coordinated policing across international borders would be required – mass civilian unrest, the kind that is not limited to just one country.
Since there will be some that say ‘what about the RWC? wont we need make sure that all those rugby fans donât cause bother with their celebrations/ commiserations’ – I will respond in advance simply by referring to my earlier point ie that the physical and temporal disconnect between our two countries renders coordinated policing redundant.
Quite clearly practicing civilian control measures simultaneously across international borders is preparation for a specific occurrence – and I am not talking about a rugby game.
I mentioned softening up, and thatâs because this is just the beginning – wait as Aussie police are welcomed back to NZ to help us deal with the crowds at the RWC (no doubt with carefully orchestrated airport applause, or – gag – standing ovation)
I may sound anti-authoritarian – and that would be a fair assessment – but all that I am asking for in this instance is some honesty and transparency in regard to these ‘operations’ – if the cops want to practice simultaneous civilian control with their Australian counterparts so be it – but they should front up about the reasons why and not try and pretend that arresting drunks across the ditch on the same weekend as us has any effect whatsoever on our ability to deal with our own.
You’re describing a disturbing loss of sovereignty here.
Next thing we know, we’ll be combining aspects of our criminal justice system with Australia.
“There is only one scenario in which this kind of coordinated policing across international borders would be required â mass civilian unrest, the kind that is not limited to just one country.”
Your are so right Campbell Larsen. The TPPA needs to have enforcers because when people finally begin to understand just how badly their darling John Key has betrayed them for his knighthood/30 pieces of silver/governor general/shares in SOEs… they will take to the streets. It will be too late of course because by the end of the year this government will have sold the rights to New Zealand and passed to the pondscum elite the Treasury key.
If ever there was a time to scream out a “VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN THIS GOVERNMENT OF NACTMU”, it must be before the TPPA is signed off.
Yep, agreed, there was and is no justification for coordination of these types of policing except as practice for more nefarious purposes. Think check points and travel papers.
The Sunday Star Times editorial today (only in print version) indicates part of the MSM are waking up to what many of us have known for a long time:
Can’t argue so far but then comes the bullshit:
This is the second time in a week that I have read an editorial which just asssumes that National & Key will win a second term. This alongside the “Goff can’t win” mantra seems to be the way the game’s being played by the MSM – repeat something enough and the people will believe it.
What I am sure of is there will be a point at which there is a collective realisation that Key is just the vacuous frontman for a nasty right wing agenda that aims to destroy what is left to feel proud of in this country. At that point the backlash will be severe. The big question is whether this occurs before or after the up coming election. If Key does lead the next government I predict he will make a hasty exit in the hope that he can get out before the moment of realisation arrives. The most important thing to Key right now is protecting his legacy.
Yes Susan and “The most important thing to Key right now is protecting his legacy.” So true. But that knighthood? How can he serve office for one term or one and a bit, and still get his “Sir John Key, Right Honorable Prime Minister, Minister of Tourism, Money Dealer Extrordinaire, Governor Designate 2014, Celebrity 2008-2011.”
Did anyone see Winston on QA this morning when he said the Nats were looking at the pensioners Gold Card.
The Nats are looking at the Card to find gold there?
More on the Horizon poll …
What matters, of course, is not the details (of interest to 0.01% of voters) but the headline. The Horizon poll is already attracting media attention (Radio NZ, Radio Live, Stuff). And Don Brash is talking it up, as you’d expect.
In fact, the Horizon poll has always been out of line with the others. Contrast with the latest Morgan poll, which showed little change. But here’s the thing … Change is news. No change is not news.
So there was no media coverage at all of the last Morgan poll (literally none at all – try and find it mentioned anywhere!). It may have been more accurate, but it wasn’t news.
But the Spinner’s job is to ignore the details and cash in on the headline. The Horizon poll shows a 3% jump for Labour. Therefore Phil Goff should be appearing in all media NOW trumpeting Labour’s leap (you can write the lines in five minutes, scary Brash is back, National falling, voters coming home to Labour, etc, etc). Repeat: All media. NOW.
Sadly, on past performance, Labour’s lethargic losers will respond to this poll in a forgettable media release some time on Tuesday.
Prove me wrong, guys. Please.
Therefore Phil Goff should be appearing in all media NOW trumpeting Labourâs leap (you can write the lines in five minutes, scary Brash is back, National falling, voters coming home to Labour, etc, etc). Repeat: All media. NOW.
Exactly. I’d add; Brash is back, National falling as voters switch to Labour, Key has to make a choice for once, will he rule out Brash?
Everything you need to know summed up in three graphs:
http://seanbonner.tumblr.com/post/5497438449/everything-you-need-to-know-summed-up-in-three-graphs
Tumblr are busy but Kos has them.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/05/13/865501/-Open-thread-for-night-owls:-Charting-American-exceptionalism
Ah thanks, i couldn’t get into the first link.
“Carol
19 November 2010 at 11:09 am
Thanks for this, Bunji. I also notice that the ACT women MPs are particularly strong on cutting back on the WomenâsAffairs Ministry. It seems to rankle with their fantasy of individualism, and their anti-âcollectivistâ principles.
But, given that the ACT male MPs have a record of sexual/gender harrassment and bullying, the ACT women seem to me to be colluding with, and/or accepting of the way they are demeaned and kept in a secondary positon in the party. This all exposes the neoliberal fantasy of a society of equally âfreeâ & sovereign individuals, with equal amounts of, or access to power.”
I hope Carol will not mind me quoting her but it needs to be highlighted that if Act gets high votes in this election the rights of women will be reduced further. We’ve seen how Brash has behaved towards the women in his caucus.
The sad thing is that the Act women actually believe the men of Act actually see them as equal.
In the French revolution the men saw the women as equal until the revolution was sewn up and then the women were sent back to reality and to inequality.
Do you think that the Act List will see current MPs dropped down to below 30th, and Brash no 1 Banks no 2. and perhaps the first woman about no 25?
Ianmac,
Act list 30+? Now you are scaring me.
Act which is at present controlling National would pretend to see women as being equal, but espouse the same beliefs as National – women will be made redundant as much as possible and forced to work in aged care, the men encouraged to believe women are taking their jobs.
Act cabinet members will be sidelined increasingly as Brash has done in the past, as Key has done in the past, unless they are in positions where women cabinet ministers destroy the futures of other women.
Mark Sainsury should ask Shagger Brash…”Do you think women have a special place in New Zealand?’
I wonder what his answer would be.
Rodel,
I’m glad Brash isn’t being called a ‘gentleman’ anymore; he never was.
As for how he would see the place of women in this society and the value they are held in – at a MOTU meeting, Jenny Gibbs, who has openly campaigned against the Suffragist Memorial Tiles in Lower Khartoum Place being retained, was asking the speaker Don Brash patsy questions, so gives you a good idea about that! If you are rich he will use you. If you are poor he will abuse you.
Stay Classy TV3.
http://www.3news.co.nz/Schools-accused-of-ignorance-in-abortion-debate/tabid/423/articleID/211216/Default.aspx
Steve Taylor
http://fundypost.blogspot.com/2008/07/chien-andalusia.html
http://publicaddress.net/hardnews/moral-thugs/
Not really a go-to guy for commentary, but if you do, you should point out his affiliations and history.
I love it how they give Family First so much space, instead of say noting the legal and human rights issues that lead to parental notification being optional, along with legitimising what was likely a flawed poll.
The People vs. Goldman Sachs
And wasn’t someone saying that we should listen to these people about some financial deals going through the other day?