Open Mike 17/07/2017

Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, July 17th, 2017 - 85 comments
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85 comments on “Open Mike 17/07/2017 ”

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  1. James 1
    17 July 2017 at 7:37 am

    Winston’s gunning for little not to make it back to government. It might just work.

    http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2017/07/patrick-gower-winston-reveals-his-plan-to-become-prime-minister.html

    • Ed 1.1
      17 July 2017 at 7:38 am

      Morning Sara

      • James 1.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 8:15 am

        Happy for the mods to check all ips etc to prove that I’m not Sara – you happy for them to do the same to prove you are not Paul ?

        Regards I’m sure they have better things to do.

        • weka 1.1.1.1
          17 July 2017 at 8:25 am

          I’m not logged in so I can’t moderate but this bickering needs to stop. If you think someone is using sock puppets and that’s causing a problem for the site then I suggest emailing Lynn. Otherwise people have a right to not have their pseudonyms questioned.

        • Draco T Bastard 1.1.1.2
          17 July 2017 at 12:50 pm

          You do know that all IP addresses in NZ are random don’t you?

          • Xanthe 1.1.1.2.1
            17 July 2017 at 6:16 pm

            some are

            • In Vino 1.1.1.2.1.1
              17 July 2017 at 6:57 pm

              Are you thereby saying some aren’t? I think this matters, maybe..

              • Xanthe …
                17 July 2017 at 7:18 pm

                Yes for a number of good reasons people request static IP and some smaller ISP provide them by default. most business accts are static IP. for domestic accts from larger telecos the IP is allocated from a pool but will still tend to stay with a user between modem reboots which can be months.

    • Ad 1.2
      17 July 2017 at 8:19 am

      If the Danes can do it, we can do it.
      Makes perfect sense if the numbers went that way and we should just relax.

    • weka 1.3
      17 July 2017 at 8:29 am

      Paddy shit stirring again?

      • James 1.3.1
        17 July 2017 at 8:35 am

        Not really – it’s a valid view.

        “However, I now see that Peters has a workable strategy to get there in a certain scenario.

        It may be unlikely, it may come to nothing – but Winston Peters has a plan to become Prime Minister.”

        And let’s face it little is prob the best chance he has of rolling labour.

  2. dv 2
    17 July 2017 at 8:13 am

    Any one know what the state of the play in the eminmen court case where the nats nicked a eminmen song?

    • James 2.1
      17 July 2017 at 8:17 am

      Nicked a song ?

      I have it on good authority (ie most lefties on here commenting on the Kim Dotcom case) that copyright issues are not theft.

      Thus it cannot be nicked.

      • dv 2.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 8:18 am

        So what happened in the court case James?

        And by implication you are agreeing it was nicked.
        (Unless you are really a lefty)

      • Xanthe 2.1.2
        17 July 2017 at 8:50 am

        @James you either dont have the slightist clue re dotcom case …or you are trolling … or both. either way the issues are completely different in the nat vs eminem

        • james 2.1.2.1
          17 July 2017 at 9:47 am

          I understand the differences – But what I was pointing out was that there was a strong opinion on here from a lot that using a copyrighted item was not in ‘fact’ theft.

          • Xanthe 2.1.2.1.1
            17 July 2017 at 10:00 am

            Ok yes that view was expressed (and up to a point I agree with it) but in the case of natz vs eminim the work was being used (or abused if you like) for promotional purpose, I think it is a reasonable question….. should an artist retain some control over the messages promoted by their work?… how would bob dylan feel about “masters of war” promoting lockheed martin?

  3. Ethica 3
    17 July 2017 at 8:23 am

    Winston gunning for National Party votes. Wouldn’t be surprised to see National collapsing in next few weeks

    • James 3.1
      17 July 2017 at 8:26 am

      I don’t see what you see. He may go after them soon. But at the moment he’s after the greens and labour. And it’s working. When labour’s own pollsters have them dropping to 26% you know it’s working.

      I guess he can only drive them so low – there will always be people who will only vote labour regardless and their vote won’t drop any further. It’s just how low that number is.

      • marty mars 3.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 9:45 am

        Yeah i can just see a green voter going, ‘nah Winnie first for me now’. Its a joke james and silly from you, even sillier than that time you wore a silly hat and everyone said oh look hes being silly he is.

        • james 3.1.1.1
          17 July 2017 at 9:48 am

          And yet the polls show its happening from labour. Go figure.

          • marty mars 3.1.1.1.1
            17 July 2017 at 12:37 pm

            No they don’t

          • adam 3.1.1.1.2
            17 July 2017 at 4:45 pm

            Put down the crack pipe and walk away james, your starting to spew rubbish at an exhilarated pace.

            And the drop of a point or two from labour went green – that much is obvious.

            So the 4% drop from the gnats went were exactly…

            Oh wait dealthy silence, as they right wing troll won’t accept the polls telling them the gnats are falling. Silly troll, you need facts to back up your claims, not the fantasies of your crack high.

      • Anne 3.1.2
        17 July 2017 at 10:13 am

        When labour’s own pollsters have them dropping to 26% …

        Winston is a very colourful character in New Zealand politics and he's got some principles too.

        "But he is a blowhard and this is blowhard politics.

        "In the end this election isn't going to be fought on the basis of swinging dicks it is going to be fought on the basis of what party has demonstrated that they are listening to the real concerns of New Zealanders.

        Little said the UMR poll was not commissioned by Labour and had not been leaked from within the party.

        Good one Andrew.

        http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=11891404

        Nice to see the latest RM poll has Lab/Greens ahead of National.

        • In Vino 3.1.2.1
          17 July 2017 at 2:08 pm

          Surely if the poll was not commissioned by Labour, Gower must be made to retract? He presented it as Labour’s own commissioned poll that had been leaked. Another $1.000-bottle-of-wine-style lie?

          • Anne 3.1.2.1.1
            17 July 2017 at 3:54 pm

            Another $1,000-bottle-of-wine-style lie?

            In a nutshell yes.

            Today I listened to RNZ’s political spot with Matthew Hooton and Stephen Mills.

            Take a deep breath and listen to it. Half of it was devoted to matters around the UMR poll. Not one mention of the Roy Morgan poll that came out on the same day and which put Labour and Greens ahead of National. Hooton’s rant against Andrew Little in particular has to be heard to be believed. His contributions were the worst display of lies, deceit and outright vindictiveness I have ever heard from him and given his track record that is saying something.

            http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/201851337/politics-with-matthew-hooton-and-stephen-mills

            Dirty RW Politics is once again on full throttle.

            • marty mars 3.1.2.1.1.1
              17 July 2017 at 4:50 pm

              he sounded like alex jones to me – he certainly needed a lie down after his rantwhichcouldnotbestopped

            • Karen 3.1.2.1.1.2
              17 July 2017 at 4:55 pm

              I suggest you send an email to Nine to Noon complaining about Hooton.

              They shouldn’t have PR shills as political commentators anyway, and his behaviour is turning listeners off. It is also time they replaced Mike Williams with someone from the left not the centre.

              • Anne …
                17 July 2017 at 5:09 pm

                They have Karen. Stephen Mills has been the main left of centre commentator since early this year. Mike Williams occasionally fronts up but not very often.

          • james 3.1.2.1.2
            17 July 2017 at 6:13 pm

            Perhaps you should retract.

            it says “Newshub has been leaked poll results from the company that does Labour’s internal polling which show it is in big trouble, two-and-a-half months out from the election.”

            So not a lie.

            • In Vino 3.1.2.1.2.1
              17 July 2017 at 7:03 pm

              But a clear implication. Does URM also work for NZ1st? Was it actually leaked by NZ1st? Once all this is clarified, it should be publicised so that we can all see what kind of spin Gower was applying.

  4. gsays 4
    17 July 2017 at 8:38 am

    The other heartening thing about the greens welfare announcements, from an occasional green voter, is a refocusing on social justice issues.
    I felt they had consciously gone away from them the last couple of election cycles.

  5. Ed 5
    17 July 2017 at 8:38 am

    Will Bill English pay his money back for double dipping?

    • BM 5.1
      17 July 2017 at 9:21 am

      What double dipping?

      • T 5.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 9:49 am

        Bill English defends taxpayer cash for house
        By VERNON SMALL13:23, Aug 06 2009
        Finance Minister Bill English says he appreciates the support he gets from taxpayers, which saw him claim nearly $1000 a week to live in his family house in Wellington.
        Mr English today defended the payments, saying it was within the rules and was the same as other ministers were getting. He had made the best option for his family and the cheapest for taxpayers.

        The English’s family trust owns the $1.2 million house in Karori.

        Mr English, the MP for Clutha-Southland, is entitled as an out-of-Wellington minister to either a crown-owned house or an accommodation allowance.

        He has six children and his wife works as a GP in Wellington

        He said Prime Minister John Key had capped the accommodation rate at $700 a week for rent, which was previously unlimited.

        Other costs are also covered – including power and cleaning – which saw Mr English claim more than $23,000 for living in the house for the six months to June 30. As deputy prime minister he earns $276,700 a year.

        He said most people thought politicians were paid too much, their cars were too big and their travel costs too extravagant.

        “I focused on making sure my family is together and it has some stability,” he said. Caving in to pressure, Bill English has paid back $32,000.

        http://i.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/2711246/Bill-English-defends-taxpayer-cash-for-house

    • james 5.2
      17 July 2017 at 9:49 am

      Yes.

      In fact he did. And the ‘double dipping’ was done under advise from ministerial services.

      Somewhat different from someone who commited fraud and never paid it back even knowing it was wrong.

      • Draco T Bastard 5.2.1
        17 July 2017 at 1:01 pm

        And the ‘double dipping’ was done under advise from ministerial services.

        [citation needed]

        Of course, the moral position was that he wasn’t an “out-of-Wellington minister” and so actually didn’t have a right to claim it. And not even sure it was legal as it was obvious that he was living in Wellington and not Dipton.

      • Psycho Milt 5.2.2
        17 July 2017 at 4:28 pm

        Somewhat different from someone who commited fraud and never paid it back even knowing it was wrong.

        Oh, how different it is indeed! Mr English could quite legally fleece the taxpayers for tens of thousands of dollars in having them pay him to live in his own house, because the wealthy make rules that suit the wealthy. Turei, on the other hand, couldn’t legally ensure her benefit covered enough to feed her kid, because the wealthy don’t make rules that suit the poor. The view a person takes of that difference depends on how chuffed they are about having the rules written for the already-wealthy, I guess – hence all the right-wing outrage about Turei finding ways to feed her kid while excusing English’s greed.

  6. billmurray 6
    17 July 2017 at 9:06 am

    I believe that both policy statements from the Greens and New Zealand First were ‘ smash and grab ‘ on Labours support base.
    They both sense weakness in Labour and both have entered a ‘no holds barred’ attacks through policies on Labour’s polling.
    I sense that both of them see Labour as a sitting duck.
    There are no signs that Labours traction with the voters is improving.
    The MoU has become a mill stone around Labours neck.
    Andrew Little did have a response to Winnie yesterday but his response was weak and got little press.
    Labour needs to start big-time dumping on the Greens to stop the Greens from claiming top spot in the MoU.
    Labour seems to be treading water in a large pond.
    The waves are getting bigger and the water is getting colder.

    • Gabby 6.1
      17 July 2017 at 9:32 am

      Do you think they’ve reached the conclusion that labour only serves to keep the gnats in government.

    • marty mars 6.2
      17 July 2017 at 9:53 am

      Yarrr bill OR labour could continue to show the gnats as lying, conniving, thick, uncaring with no ideas other than there proven failed ones.

      • billmurray 6.2.1
        17 July 2017 at 1:24 pm

        marty mars 9.53,
        of course they need to do what you say, but they do not do it very well because they want to be National lite themselves.
        Labour will never get poll traction whilst the NZ First and Green parties make the headlines by sideway attacks on them.

    • Psycho Milt 6.3
      17 July 2017 at 4:31 pm

      It makes no difference if Labour loses votes to the Green Party – the result would just be a slightly different make-up of MPs in a Labour/Green government.

      It makes a big different if Labour loses votes to NZ First though, because those votes then go to keeping National in power. Anyone on the left who participates in that ought to be ashamed of themselves (Martyn Bradbury I’m looking at you here).

  7. Adrian 7
    17 July 2017 at 9:08 am

    Just curious, besides Winnie, master that he is, and Shane the blow-in ( hard ? ), can anyone name anyone else in NZ 1.
    That’s the Achilles heal.

    • garibaldi 7.1
      17 July 2017 at 9:27 am

      Aw c’mon Adrian we all know he has the ” sunglasses and expensive underpants” squad ready to respond to his every whim. Just like last time NZ fell for this double speaking charlatan.

      • Adrian 7.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 10:15 am

        Agreed Garibaldi, but he is amusing and a superb politician, if the definition is the ability to bullshit from a position of weakness. The Maori seats ploy is aimed at Tory votes and Metiera really had to respond and good on her. It’s going to be a fun show.
        As I said Winnie’s weakness is encapsulated in a great Texas saying, ” All hat and no cattle “.

  8. AsleepWhileWalking 8
    17 July 2017 at 9:14 am

    Warm Fuzzy for the day…Human chain saves entire family from drowning (Panama)

    http://www.nwfdailynews.com/news/20170710/amazing-human-chain-formed-to-rescue-drowning-family-in-pcb

  9. North 9
    17 July 2017 at 10:11 am

    Oh poor (lawyer for Trump Snr) Mr Sekulow. Could you get ‘swampier’ ? A private jet funded from a pot benefitted by donations from trailer park dwellers. Who’ve just lost jobs to Princess Ivanka’s ‘other’ employees/slaves in her Bangladeshi, Ethiopian, Somalian operations. “Dig deep for God folks !”.

    https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/jun/27/trump-lawyer-jay-sekulow-donations

  10. garibaldi 10
    17 July 2017 at 11:35 am

    Matthew Hooton yet again proving he is a moron on 9 to noon. He is again suggesting the Greens should keep their options of a coalition with National open.
    What is wrong with these people pushing this line? It would be like Corbyn going into coalition with May. Not going to happen.
    Oh great ,he’s now calling us communists. Wow, the right really is panicking.

    • weka 10.1
      17 July 2017 at 12:56 pm

      He’s run out of spin.

    • bearded git 10.2
      17 July 2017 at 1:02 pm

      agreed …..can’t believe mills didn’t mention the roy morgan poll.

      • In Vino 10.2.1
        17 July 2017 at 1:30 pm

        At first Hooten annoyed me as usual – but soon I felt something new. He sounded bilious.
        By the time he had finished spitting it all out, I had the feeling that he would be making no new conversions today. Some comfort for the fact that he gets so much air time.

        • Johan 10.2.1.1
          17 July 2017 at 7:57 pm

          John Banks and Rodney Hide are supporters of the same political party as Hooten, and for some reason, they seem to have found, radio time an easy forum to express their political agenda.
          Hooten works for a public relations firm, and one would think he would make himself more appealing to the listener.

          • Gabby 10.2.1.1.1
            17 July 2017 at 10:35 pm

            He seemed to be offering the Greens terms on behalf of Bingles. Is he a Bingles spokesperson now?

    • Psycho Milt 10.3
      17 July 2017 at 4:34 pm

      He is again suggesting the Greens should keep their options of a coalition with National open.

      Who is that even aimed at? There can’t be many Green supporters who’d like to see it in a coalition with National, nor many Nat supporters who’d like a deal with the Greens. I presume it’s just a lame attempt to wedge the Labour/Green MoU.

      • weka 10.3.1
        17 July 2017 at 4:40 pm

        Desperate I think.

        Just saw someone on twitter saying they’re switching their vote from National to the Greens because of the poverty gap. That’s gold for the left and another good reason to not even consider supporting a National govt. Shifting the Overton Window.

  11. greywarshark 11
    17 July 2017 at 12:51 pm

    Special Economic Zones
    Definition
    The operating definition of a SEZ is determined individually by each country. According to the World Bank in 2008, the modern day special economic zone typically includes a “geographically delimited area, usually physically secured (fenced-in);
    single management/administration;
    eligibility for benefits based upon physical location within the zone;
    separate customs area (duty-free benefits) and streamlined procedures.
    “special economic zone are those industrial zone which have been set up by government of India to attract foreign companies to invest in the country.[6]

    History
    Free zones and Entrepôts have been used for centuries to guarantee free storage and exchange along trade routes.[citation needed]

    Modern SEZs appeared from late 1950s in industrial countries. The first was in Shannon Airport in Clare, Ireland.[7] From the 1970s onward, zones providing labor-intensive manufacturing have been established, starting in Latin America and East Asia. The first in China following the opening of China in 1979 by Deng Xiaoping was the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, which encouraged foreign investment and simultaneously accelerated industrialization in this region. These zones attracted investment from multinational corporations.[1]
    A recent trend has been for African countries to set up SEZs in partnership with China.[2]

    Similar to what has happened in Cuba, with one small piece carved off from the country, and held by a country hostile to them to use for their own purposes which would be anathema I think to Cuban political views.

    Guantanamo Bay Naval Base (Spanish: Base Naval de la Bahía de Guantánamo), officially known as Naval Station Guantanamo Bay or NSGB, (also called GTMO because of the airfield designation code or Gitmo because of the common pronunciation of this code by the U.S. military[1]) is a United States military base located on 45 square miles (120 km2) of land and water at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, which the U.S. leased for use as a coaling and naval station in 1903 for $2,000 in gold per year until 1934, when the payment was set to match the value in gold in dollars;[2] in 1974, the yearly lease was set to $4,085.[3] The base is on the shore of Guantánamo Bay at the southeastern end of Cuba. It is the oldest overseas U.S. Naval Base.[4]

    Since the Cuban Revolution of 1959, the Cuban government has consistently protested against the U.S. presence on Cuban soil and called it illegal under international law, alleging that the base was imposed on Cuba by force. At the United Nations Human Rights Council in 2013, Cuba’s Foreign Minister demanded the U.S. return the base and the “usurped territory”, which the Cuban government considers to be occupied since the U.S. invasion of Cuba during the Spanish–American War in 1898.[5][6][7][8][9]

    Since 2002, the naval base has contained a military prison, the Guantanamo Bay detention camp, for unlawful combatants captured in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other places during the War on Terror.[10] Cases of torture of prisoners,[11] and their alleged denial of protection under the Geneva Conventions, have been condemned internationally.[12][13]

    Once NZ ceded areas of the country for Special Economic Zones we would probably never regain autonomy over them. It would be a piecemeal takeover of the country which would expand taking in further desirable areas.

    But the NZ Initiative wants us to join this auspicious list of 30 needy counries, I guess we match that description after decades of asset and job stripping:
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_special_economic_zones

  12. adam 12
    17 July 2017 at 4:05 pm

    I’d been told it was someone from the Broadchurch cast. Not who I expected, but very happy.

    The 13th Doctor.

    https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jul/16/doctor-who-jodie-whittaker-announced-13th-doctor?CMP=fb_gu

    • weka 12.1
      17 July 2017 at 4:33 pm

      I’m happy too and probably going to start watching again.

      • adam 12.1.1
        17 July 2017 at 4:39 pm

        Me too, I’ve been watching is spits and spurts. Loved Capaldi in all his previous work, but as the Dr, mmmm decidedly average. Could have been the writing though, some of the stories were naf.

  13. Philj 13
    17 July 2017 at 4:09 pm

    Shocking story on Morning Report http://www.radionz.co.nz/audio/player?audio_id=201851293
    about machinery importers having to self police to ensure that dirty second hand machinery doesn’t create bio security disasters. A pathetic fine of $3,000 in a recent case of importing a ‘new’ combine harvester that was dirty and obviously not new. Another major accident just waiting…

  14. Ric 14
    17 July 2017 at 6:27 pm

    I think this blog would be better if there was an upper limit on the number of times any 1 individual is allowed to comment in any 1 day. There could be a list of exceptions for people that have shown that they make useful comments.
    Alternatively could we have a weekly vote for the worst commentator of the week with the prize of that person being banned for 7 days.
    Some people just don’t make any effort to contributepositevely to the discusssion

    [lprent: Nope. Read the about and the policy. You will find that this isn’t a democracy of commenters, it is a working cooperative of the people who author posts and keep the site running. But it also has a trustee board of a couple of hardcore old veterans who have seen just about every dumbarse idea tried on political movements and the net. So the policy has been especially written to ensure that any bully behaviour can only be done by the people who operate the site. Ultimately you will find that is likely to be me – and I have short sharp and usually shocking techniques to pruning fools. ]

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    Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago

  • Gordon Campbell on fast track powers, media woes and the Tiktok ban
    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 ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    1 day ago

  • The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    Bryce Edwards writes-  The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    1 day ago

  • Maori push for parallel government structures
    Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • An announcement about an announcement
    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 ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • All the Green Tech in China.
    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 ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago

  • Western Express Success
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    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    2 days ago

  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 7:16am on Monday, April 22
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 7:16am on Monday, April 22:Labour says Kiwis at greater risk from loan sharks as Govt plans to remove borrowing regulations NZ Herald Jenee TibshraenyHow did the cost of moving two schools blow out to more than $400m?A ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    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 ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    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 ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

  • Thank you
    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 ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Determining the Engine Type in Your Car
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Who Makes Mazda Cars?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Often to Replace Your Car Battery A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What Are Struts on a Car?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What Does Car Registration Look Like: A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Are Computers Made?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago

  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    “You talking about me?”  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    Bowalley Road
    3 days ago

  • A crisis of ambition
    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 ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
    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 ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
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    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    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 ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • The worth of it all
    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 ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    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, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    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 ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
    Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
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    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    4 days ago

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
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    Skeptical Science
    4 days ago

  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    4 days ago

  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    4 days ago

  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago

  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago

  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 hours ago

  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    12 hours ago

  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    13 hours ago

  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    14 hours ago

  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
    “China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.   Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Judicial appointments announced
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
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