Following on from that Sunday Column, cited here on theStandard, by David Slack on the popcorn spectacle provided by the Three Willies (or is that two Willies and a Won't He?), I received last week an email from the National Party suggesting I make a donation.
It began, "Voting is open in our critical Port Waikato by-election.
National and Christopher Luxon need this seat to strengthen our National-led government.
But (my name deleted), after we successfully defeated Labour in the general election our war chest is running low."
All that money spent and the three Willies still haven't released their album, "Closing the Deal".
Songs touted for this album include "The Party is Over", "Always on my Mind", "On the Road Again" and "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain", written by that other Willie, Willie Nelson.
These pieces of hippy you Tai are forcesing there mental drugs down my neck they don't have a judge ordered to make me take their poisons .
That's what the act say have to have a judge ordered if one refuses there drugs
Whano it true the drug companies are giving doctors q kick back to push their crap pills.
When you go to a doctor they for high blood pressure say take a pill instead of saying no caffeine sugar ect
And when you are stressed they say take a pill instead of saying get more sun and eat food with higher vitamin e and rest .they now say stop smoking because now everyone knows it bad but back in the day they never said stop smoking probley getting kick backs from big tobacco to
These people are not going obey the laws they are just craping on my human rights my right as tangata whenua.
Yes whanau the system is just shitting on me.
Legally they were to have a rehabilitation plan from the first few days I've been in here.
I had to demand a rehabilitation plan and quote the law to get a plan.
The person in charge is emotionally void the way they ran my rehabilitation plan was a sham as usual they were just antagonising me so they can keep me in their hinaki.
Thanks for that Mutton…I particularly like and support this said by Ayman Safadi, Jordan’s foreign minister:
"The credibility of international law had fallen victim to its selective application. “If any other country in the world did a fragment of what Israel did, it would have sanctions imposed on it from every corner of the world.”
He said even those who accepted Israel was acting in self-defence “keep telling Israel to act within international law. It is not, so where do we go from here? Keep telling them to do it? They keep refusing to do it. People are being killed day in and day out.”
“International law has to apply to all. The message seems to be that Israel can do whatever it wants."
"International law has to apply to all" – the /sarc/ tag should have been applied!
The argument appears to be that international sanctions should apply to Israel, but the Arab allies can continue supplying Hamas with weapons (note, Hamas as a terrorist organization, already has international sanctions applied, which Jordan, among other ME countries, has happily ignored).
I don't recall Jordan describing "Denial of food, medicine and fuel" to Kurds in Iraq; or to civilians impacted by the civil wars in Yemen, Syria or Ethiopia – as "war crimes". How do these situations differ from what is going on in Gaza?
Indeed, Jordan rejected the UN claim that Saudi air-strikes in Yemen were war crimes.
Or, indeed, the actual ethnic cleansing going on in Nagorno Karabakh – between Armenia and Azerbaijan, right now. Anyone expecting a 'right of return' should not hold their breath….
He said Jordan would do “whatever it takes to stop” the displacement of Palestinians. “We will never allow that to happen; in addition to it being a war crime, it would be a direct threat to our national security.
So, the real reason that they won't take Palestinian refugees is that they see them as a threat.
And, adding the final sentence to the original quote:
He refused to join the calls to liken Hamas to Islamic State. “Hamas did not create the conflict. The conflict created Hamas,” he said, adding: “You cannot bomb an idea out of existence.
So, reinforcing that the 'idea' of Israel being destroyed – is the founding basis of Hamas – and explaining why there can be no peace between Hamas and Israel.
And, not even being willing to participate in post-war reconstruction
“There will be no Arab troops going to Gaza. None. We are not going to be seen as the enemy.”
He said all Arab governments were agreed on this, and that any discussion of Gaza’s future now was impossible. “By entertaining that, we are telling the Israeli government: ‘Do whatever you want. Go destroy Gaza. No one is stopping you and once you are done we will clean up your mess.’ No, we will not.”
So, if peace breaks out (though some miracle), tomorrow – no Arab country will participate in the reconstruction.
Who does he think should clean up the mess afterwards? Clearly not Israel (completely unacceptable to the Palestinian Arabs – not to mention the ME countries). Hamas is clearly unacceptable to Israel (because, yanno, terrorist organization which continually fires missles at Israel), as well as not having the capacity to govern in normal times, let alone carry out major reconstruction. Who does that leave? Clearly not the 'concerned neighbours'….
The really interesting difference between this Hamas war, and the 1948-9 All-Arab attack, the 1967 Six Day War, and the 1973 Yom Kippur War, is that in this war Egypt, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon are not joining forces to actually attack Israel with everything they have in order to wipe the entire state of Israel out.
They are akin to pro-Palestinian protesters: doing fuck all about it other than emoting another round of their feelings.
None of those Arab countries will take in Palestinian refugees.
So their leaders just keep making speeches and have discussions about 'the law'.
The net result of no-one wanting to stabilise Gaza out of terrorist hands, is that Israel will have to do it. At which point all those Arab countries are of course "appalled" and smiling all the way to the next armed conflict, which suits their funder client states in Iran and UAE and Dubai just fine.
I agree. In addition, many of the Arab countries have been coming to a live-and-let-live relationship with Israel over the last few years. There is speculation that the timing of the Hamas attack was planned to disrupt the signing of an agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
And, given that all of those wars ended in spectacular failure for the Arab countries, and that their armies haven't got noticeably better over the last 50 years, discretion is almost certainly the better part of valour.
"None of those Arab countries will take in Palestinian refugees."
I'm not here to defend any Arab country – but why should they offer to do this? Particularly because if this offer is on the table, it constitutes only an incentive to Israel to keep killing Palestinians and destroying the infrastructure of Gaza until they all flee. And it seems pretty plain that this is the Israeli (or at least Likud) end game – expulsion out of Gaza and elimination of those who stay behind. The perfidiousness of the Arab states does not change the nature of what may become one of the worst humanitarian crimes in a long time.
"I can see how the hamas worldview might appeal to you."
Oh dear. It doesn't take long for total silliness to appear. From what I know of the "hamas worldview", I find it and their actions on October 7 totally repellent.
Egypt managed Gaza until the end of 1967 through a military governor. But is now building a most massive wall and gate against them.
Jordan's administration of the West Bank officially ended in 1988. Jordan welcomed Palestinians after the 1948 war and after the Six Day War. However fighting broke out in 1971 with Hezbolla and proto-Hamas since they thought they could actually take over the state and tried to kill the King. They were expelled for seeking to wreck the country from the inside.
Lebanon has Hezbolla now as part of their government, but Hezbolla and Hamas don't integrate at all well, and don't want Hamas to wreck the country.
Syria administered the Golan Heights until the end of 1967. They still want it back. But they don't want Palestinians to come in and wreck the country – (such as it is).
The UAE and Qatar and Iran massively fund Hamas who have been ruling over Gaza. Qatar only allows the Hamas leadership because they are high end hotel guests.
Saudi Arabia certainly funds Palestinian camps through the UN, but just won't have them in.
None of them take the actual humanitarian step of welcoming fellow Arabs as migrants inwards.
In 1991 Kuwait expelled nearly 200,000 Palestinians out of their land. The Palestinians sided with Saddam and were on side with wrecking the country.
In 1995 Libya expelled most of its Palestinian people – about 5,000 – because Ghadaffi believed the formation of the PLO meant they were no longer refugees. No sign of further "help" for them.
I wish there were no refugees anywhere in the world.
I wish countries around Israel were good international citizens that allowed international law to apply to them as much as they expect it applied to Israel.
Did you get upset when I called out your shit? As your response is just more bullshit – countries other than those at war are evil – so killing Palestinian civilians is OK? Anymore twists of logic you want to get involved in?
It seems you're parroting the whole – if your not with us, you are against us. George Bush and his far right horseshit.
Why should the first course of action be to find somewhere for the Palestinians to go, rather than try to prevent their expulsion by Israel and find a viable two or one-state solution? Seems extraordinary to me that one would just naturally start from that point.
NZ takes in a number of refugees from different countries. There are refugees from the Middle East and North Africa streaming into Europe. Likewise refugees from Latin America streaming into North America. Hundreds, if not thousands of refugees from Asia and the Middle East have fled to Australia.We are in the “west” are trying to help, many people on the left want to us to do more to take in as many refugees as possible. So I don’t see why the Arab countries won’t help.
[Please correct the typo in the email address in your next comment, thanks – Incognito]
The vast majority of whom are coming from countries where they are a persecuted minority (political, ethnic, religious – the reason doesn't much matter to the victims)
Should we all say, effectively, "stay in camps and rot – until the politics of your home country changes and you can go home"
I don't think that this is a very 'humanitarian' position.
Are you just as hot under the collar about the actual ethnic cleansing going on in Nagorno-Karabakh (involving Azerbaijan and Armenia)? Or does it only matter when Palestinians are involved?
But Bella the fact that the Israelis are unlawfully using violence against civilians makes them terrorists too.
You do not seem to be able to acknowledge that the war has been caused entirely by Israel because of the way it has illegally built a multitude of illegal settlements on ,the West Bank, stealing Palestinian land and killing many Palestinians in the process AND the Israelis have treated Gaza and it's 2 million plus Palestinians as an open jail where the people are not even permitted to swim in the sea.
I would be fighting in the streets if I was treated like that.
So is every government which engages in wars against terrorists/insurgents (wars which may have civilian impacts) – also a terrorist government?
That is not the usual definition. And doesn't seem to be the one proposed (by you or others) for any other state which has found itself in this situation (Russia, Yemen, Syria, Ethiopia – the list can go on).
Following your argument, that would make the Allies in WW2 (carpet bombing of Dresden and Tokyo amongst other instances) – terrorist states.
You do not seem to be able to acknowledge that the war has been caused entirely by Israel
Well, yes. That is because I do not believe that this war (or any of the other attacks on Israel) have been caused "entirely by Israel".
I think Israel has a part in the causes of the conflict. But so do Hamas (their founding document absolutely denies the right of Israel to exist – not to mention ongoing openly terrorist tactics on the civilian population); and so do the surrounding Arab states (refusing to re-settle those Palestinians who want to get out of a war zone).
Your simplistic acceptance of 'Palestine good' 'Israel bad' – doesn't reflect the real world. Nor is it helpful in finding a solution (if, indeed, one can be found).
Just an FYI – the population of Gaza is around 778K – not 2 million.
Bella-All quotes I have seen from many media sources have said Gaza has a population of 2 million plus. Corbyn said 2.2 million in his latest post.
I suggest you look up the definition of terrorism. Netanyahu is a terrorist.
You appear to be totally unaware of the history of Palestine, especially the Nakba.
(BTW there is definitely an argument that the allies should not have carpet bombed Dresden and other places in Germany. Similarly the Americans probably didn't need to destroy as many cities as they did in Japan and they certainly didn't need to drop the second atomic bomb)
I'm pretty well acquainted with the history of Israel and Palestine, also the Middle East, and the colonial history from the Romans onwards. Which is why I believe that there is no 'good' and 'evil' side here.
I suggest that you look up the definition of terrorist. Netanyahu is a political leader. You may dislike his policies, but as the leader of a legitimate state, you can't describe him as a terrorist. Any more than you can call Putin, Xi, or Kim terrorists. He is acting within the laws of Israel, and Israel is conducting a war against a foreign state (Gaza) which is the military base for Hamas – a terrorist organization which has made a terror raid into Israel, deliberately targeting civilians.
Hamas are not fluffy little kittens. There is a very good reason that they are designated as a terrorist organization, internationally. And very good reasons why Israel do not trust them to keep any agreement.
There is zero trust on either side. And mutually exclusive basic principles (Hamas doesn't believe Israel should exist, Israel believes that it should)
Perhaps you could also familiarize yourself with the virtually complete ethnic cleansing of Jews from every Arab state – going on before, during and after the Nakba. Or is does it only matter if Palestinians are affected?
The difference is that Israel took in and re-settled the Jewish refugees in Israel. Arab countries in the Middle East refused to do the same for the Palestinians.
Apologies for getting the pop wrong – I'd confused the city with the strip.
I'm pretty well acquainted with the history of Israel and Palestine, also the Middle East, and the colonial history from the Romans onwards. Which is why I believe that there is no 'good' and 'evil' side here.
Clearly that is complete bullshit because just a bit further down you said…
…and Israel is conducting a war against a foreign state (Gaza)…
Clearly you are too stupid or too lazy to be "…pretty well acquainted with the history of Israel and Palestine.." or its legal status.
Gaza is legally an occupied territory in a state of war. It has never been recognised as being sovereign state because of that occupation. In particular it has never been recognised as such by the state of Israel. That has been the legal basis of the air-land-sea siege of Gaza that Israel has maintained before and since the IDF left in 2005.
The difference is that Israel took in and re-settled the Jewish refugees in Israel. Arab countries in the Middle East refused to do the same for the Palestinians.
Or put another way, the Arab states refused to recognise that Israel's theft by force of Palestinian lands and properties. That was where Israeli settled Jewish refugees and the other carpetbaggers that came with them.
Your statements might have made sense if
You may dislike his policies, but as the leader of a legitimate state, you can't describe him as a terrorist.
I assume you are relying on the legal position of heads of sovereign states. But that is just means that you are a wanton and rather dumb hypocrite.
You cannot technically describe any Palestinian as a terrorist if they are resisting an force occupying or besieging their territory. They are partisans of the nascent state of Palestine that was to have been established in 1948 under the auspices of the UN, then occupied by Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.
Israel occupied parts of the Palestinian territories inside the armistice lines. Egypt and Jordan remained in occupation of Gaza and the West Bank respectively until they were occupied by Israel in 1967, and both have since renounced any claims that they might have had to those territories. Israel has not – they have simply withdrawn and maintain control on both territories.
Essentially both you and the Israelis are deliberately lying when they describe Palestinians fighting against a occupation or besieging force either within their own territory, or in the territories of their enemy state as terrorists. They are partisans or resistance. They are not terrorists.
That is the direct consequence of Israel never actually allowing the formation of an actual sovereign State of Palestine since 1948. There is no sovereign body with which to negotiate a peace treaty with. Nor have they made peace with any body that would allow them to formally annex the territory because that would have also made them formally responsible for their new citizens – more Palestinians.
Essentially Israel has been responsible for Palestinians behaviour and well being in Palestine under every international law in areas that they occupied since 1948 or 1967 depending on which occupation you're looking at. However Israel is fundamentally a state that hasn't been up to that basic requirement of any real state. Instead they just steal land, property and commit crimes against humanity – just as they are in Gaza right now.
It was noticeable that both Jordan and Egypt did a far better job of their occupations until 1967.
Israel simply haven't been up to the task of building relationships with them. Either that or they like the ambiguous position of Palestinians because it makes it easier for Israel to steal from them.
BTW: your idea of history appears to be to read really stupid propaganda and believe it. Now I have left some awesome holes in my narrative. But I’m betting that you are far too ignorant to see them or even to understand them. In the event you respond, I will happily point out the propaganda, that you are clearly incapable of researching and forming your own ideas – and my opinions about what causes your deficiencies…
So can you give an example of another government you would regard as a terrorist?
Plenty of governments do things we disagree with. I'm not too happy with Russia's actions in Ukraine, or China's against the Uighar's or pretty much any of the bloody, internecine conflicts in half the Middle East (Syria, Yemen, Ethiopia, just to name a few). Would you regard those governments as terrorists? If not, what is the difference between them and Israel?
As an aging white male in provincial NZ, I'm in a very small minority amongst my peers when I rate Nania Mahuta highly.
Her interview on Q&A this morning has only raised my view of her intellect and ability. Fantastic review of her career. I wish her all the best, she leaves a gap I hope Labour doesn't struggle to fill.
I think you will be disappointed. The Labour talent chest is pretty bare. (As is National's).
A bit off topic but I wonder why, when our country and the world, have so many serious challenges impacting us, we seem to have so many small people leading us.
Politics is a rough business. MPs all go in thinking they will change the world, and find that the vast majority have little ability to change anything. Disillusionment (especially if you're an opposition back-bencher) sets in quickly.
It also chews up and spits out families. The number of marriage breakdowns must be higher than just about any other area of employment.
In addition, the media have a vested interest in finding out every tiny questionable detail about your past life, and writing it up for clicks. It seems that only the most anodyne, PR polished portfolios are suitable as candidates. And, these are rarely the best and brightest (most great leaders have made mistakes in their early life/career).
The cancel culture at its best/worst.
I do distinguish, here between past history, and current behaviour – bad behaviour in sitting MPs absolutely needs to be called out. Although I do think redemption should be possible. I sincerely regret the departure of Kiri Allen from politics – although, I bet she doesn't.
Even at the top party levels, people often decide that they can make more of a difference/have a better life – outside politics – cf Russel Norman & Jacinda Ardern. And, very few would ever go back (Sue Moroney was appalled by the idea when it was floated to her as a panellist on National Radio)
The interesting question is whether, if they were starting out today, they'd be selected as candidates by their party. I think, in many cases, the answer would be 'no'.
"(especially if you're an opposition back-bencher)"
I think that it would far worse to be a Government backbencher than it would be to be in the Opposition. At least in Opposition you may get the chance to ask real questions and if you can get a Minister ruffled you have some chance of promotion.
In Government a backbencher might, if they are very good, be given a question to ask so that a Minister can boast about how great they are. Anything else you do will be exactly what the whips order you to do.
The opposite will be the case if you are on the front bench. The Opposition frontbenchers can feel the pain of of not being someone with real power and perks.
I agree in the house, however select committees do provide the opportunity for government backbenchers to make a contribution to legislation with a good chance of being enacted.
TBH – I regard most of what goes on in Parliament as political theatre – rather than governance.
However, her actual achievements in government are …. less than spectacular.
She was an adequate Foreign Minister. Although, copped quite a bit of criticism for not travelling as much as the job requires. But no spectacular successes, even if there weren't dismal failures.
However, by any measure, she was a very poor Local Government Minister. Her big challenge was to get local government on board with the 3 waters changes. She failed.
Whether it was arrogance, or poor communications, or unwillingness to listen, or whatever combination of reasons; she not only failed to persuade local government, she left them feeling that they'd been lied to, and belittled by the infantile advertising campaign she authorized.
She also failed in her attempts to effectively communicate what co-governance means to the rest of NZ. How it would work in practice. And how everyone's rights to water (and potentially other resources) would be protected. Again, she failed badly.
I don't hold her solely responsible for this. Ardern needs to carry quite a bit of responsibility here, as well. Especially when everyone could see that it was going wrong. Ardern should have pulled the co-governance element, much earlier; or replaced Mahuta, much earlier; or put together a dream-team coms group to sell the concept (not sure if this would have been achievable at the beginning, but it certainly wasn't by the end)
In addition, she tried to pull a fast one in working with the GP to entrench the law – completely blind-siding her Labour caucus colleagues, who had been informed this was off the table. Ardern should have fired her as a minister for this.
She was an adequate Foreign Minister… However, by any measure, she was a very poor Local Government Minister.
…
Whether it was arrogance, or poor communications, or unwillingness to listen… she failed… she not only failed… she also failed… she failed badly.
IMHO the primary blame for the death of 3 Waters lies with MFE and Internal Affairs local government leads. It ain't that hard to design fulsome engagement processes that build towards bringing the entire public with you. To me it looks like MFE and DIA were half-hearted and just ramming the bill through was going to be enough.
I think you underestimate the extent to which provincial areas are essentially fiefdoms of local farming and business interests and Councils are the political wing of those interests. Anyone who proposes giving local Maori any meaningful influence over anything (not just water) that potentially threatens those interests is likely to call down a firestorm on the own head. The best way to rapidly progress 3 Waters would have been to remove co-governance before even starting. If this means more broadly that the progress made since the 1980's in recognising the Treaty and the Maori view of the world has reached it's terminus, or is about to be rolled back, we are in deep trouble.
I think you underestimate just how off-side she got with major urban councils as well.
I agree that co-governance was an unnecessary distraction if the aim was to get 3 waters embedded in law. However, I don't think that this is the case, for Labour/Greens – I think that co-governance was equally as important as water reform, in their minds.
But how exactly do, "MFE and Internal Affairs local government leads" combat outright racism in rural district councils and the farming community they represent?
If a minor itinerant preacher can do a nationwide tour to sell their anti-Treaty message, it wouldn't have killed MfE and DIA to do the same with a passel of Labour Ministers in tow.
Do a short movie, a monthly Youtube uplift, a social marketing campaign apropos MMP or anti-smoking, organise a few marches, a couple of rousing anthems. Jesus it's not hard.
There is no persuading those people. Racism in colonial, rural New Zealand is ingrained, and on top of that profit is at stake. Water use must be controlled by white farmers. Local councils have managed to ensure this continues.
You're missing the fact that a significant part of provincial opposition to 3 Waters was loss of local control to a centralised body. I support co-governance, but no way would I trust an urban organisation in Christchurch designed by Wellington to know what is needed in the rural SI, and I'm not alone in that.
My feeling is that most of the opposition to centralisation was that a central body would take into account the concerns of the whole rather than the most powerful. This is what centralisation means.
Rural councils are populated by, and represent farming interests. They don't have to answer to the disenfranchised, the low income, and the asset-less class because local body democracy simply does not work for these people.
Low turnout and highly funded farming industry campaigning is a sweet spot for profit at the expense of the environment and those who supply labour. The vehemence with which these groups and their proxies fought Three Waters showed how much they rely on control of water. The thought of having Maori at the table just wouldn't do.
The effect of co-governance on the 3waters governing bodies, meant that the area covered by each body had more to do with iwi groupings, than watersheds. FFS – one crossed over the Cook Strait.
This comment shows the campaign by the faming industry worked. They appealed to intolerance and fear, leaving supposed middle voters convinced 3 Waters was about Maori stealing things rather than improving water infrastructure and management.
I met Nanaia 10 years ago and was very impressed with her intelligence and grasp of politics. It did not surprise me when Jacinda gave her Foreign Affairs. The problem was, she was Maori and she made sure everyone knew she was there to represent Maori.
Racism is just below the surface of a large proportion of the population.
When I turned 18 I got a nice letter from a bank letting me know my trust investments was now accessible without the need for a trustee signature. Neither my parents nor myself knew anything about this.
Well off Aunty had trust accounts all in our kids names – enough for each of us to buy a house and have some left over. Unsurprisingly I still haven't seen a cent and I'm in my late 50's now.
Should be a register of beneficiaries of all trusts for this and other reasons.
Did no one think of having water hoses or sprinklers during the day for cooling (before the concert) places to shelter and access to water (water bottle refills)?
One wonders if the bi-partisan foreign policy position is going to hold throughout the interminable duration of the preparation for the 100 day government …
The White House says there is "no deal yet" to halt the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, after media reports emerged claiming a five-day ceasefire had been agreed.
White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson added the United States would "continue to work hard to get a deal," but that no agreement had been finalised on Sunday.
Her statement came following a report from The Washington Post, which claimed Israel and Hamas would suspend the conflict and release women and children hostages, sparked a wave of speculation that an official announcement may be imminent.
Speaking during a lengthy press conference, Netanyahu also dismissed “a lot of incorrect reports” about imminent agreements to free some or all of the roughly 240 people being held, adding that “as of now there is no deal.” He said that if a deal emerges the Israeli public will be updated.
Excerpt:
Hipkins said he was speaking as Labour leader not as the caretaker prime minister.
"I want to acknowledge that this is an unusual period for New Zealand. While we wait for a government to be formed, we will continue to uphold the caretaker convention and as prime minister I will work within what can be agreed with the incoming government.
"However I speak today as the Labour Leader. I, and the Labour Party, cannot stand by any longer in the face of the horrific scenes we are witnessing without calling for a ceasefire."
Good on you Chris Hipkins. Caught them on the hop. Too wrapped in their own coalition bubble to give a hoot about a rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Now they cry foul "Hipkins is playing politics". Large black pots calling a wee kettle black.
Agree, finally but hands are tied. "Hipkins is caretaker Prime Minister while the new Government is being formed, but his latitude to act and speak in that role is limited because he must consult with members of the incoming Government.
On Friday, the caretaker Government had talked with National about calling for a ceasefire. National did not agree to that so Hipkins decided to go it alone and call for a ceasefire as Labour leader, rather than Prime Minister of the caretaker Government."
In 2019, the AB's lost to the team who lost the final.
In 2019, the Black Caps scored 241 for 8 and England tied the score to draw the game ..
In 2023, the Black Caps lose to India who are playing Oz in the final
India score 240 all out, so Oz have to match the England total of 2019 for there to be a winner this time round.
Sports a bit like elections, it's the end result that counts – except that errors made by officials do not change the final count (TMO was wrong to stop the awarding of a try etc but the result on the day stands).
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Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same?Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
Open access notablesIce acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment:In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
Mr Bombastic:Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder.In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére SosouMarket gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
Buzz from the Beehive Melissa Lee – as may be discerned from the screenshot above – has not been demoted for doing something seriously wrong as Minister of ...
Morning in London Mother hugs beloved daughter outside the converted shoe factory in which she is living.Afternoon in London Travelling writer takes himself and his wrist down to A&E, just to be sure. Read more ...
Mike Grimshaw writes – The recent announcement of the University Advisory Group, chaired by Sir Peter Gluckman, makes very clear where the Government’s focus and priorities lie. The remit of the Advisory Group is that Group members will consider challenges and opportunities for improvement in the university sector including: ...
Eric Crampton writes – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand desperately wants to find reasons to have workstreams in climate change. It makes little sense. They’ve run another stress test on the banks looking to see if they could find a prudential regulation case. They couldn’t. They ...
Rob MacCullough writes – Pundits from the left and the right are arguing that National’s Fast Track Bill that is designed to speed up infrastructure decisions could end up becoming mired in a cesspool of corruption. Political commentator ...
Looking at the headlines this morning it’s hard to feel anything other than pessimistic about the future of humanity.Note that I’m not speaking about the future of mankind, but the survival of our humanity. The values that we believe in seem to be ebbing away, by the day.Perhaps every generation ...
Swabbing mixed breed baby chicks to test for avian influenzaUh oh. Bird flu – often deadly to humans – is not only being transmitted from infected birds to dairy cows, but is now travelling between dairy cows. As of last Friday, Bloomberg News reports, there were 32 American dairy herds ...
On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough. Greenpeace says ...
I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Te Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...
Our two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...
Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...
Tonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...
It appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...
The Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...
Labour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...
The Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...
Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...
The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...
The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...
Cuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
Te Pāti Māori is disgusted at the confirmation that hundreds are set to lose their jobs at Oranga Tamariki, and the disestablishment of the Treaty Response Unit. “This act of absolute carelessness and out of touch decision making is committing tamariki to state abuse.” Said Te Pāti Māori Oranga Tamariki ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi, and Mema Paremata mō Tāmaki-Makaurau, Takutai Tarsh Kemp, will travel to the Gold Coast to strengthen ties with Māori in Australia next week (15-21 April). The visit, in the lead-up to the 9th Australian National Kapa haka Festival, will be an opportunity for both ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says. “Every day, ...
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges. “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service. It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
Distinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
“Our exporters should, therefore, be deeply concerned that the Fast-track Approvals Bill was not assessed for consistency with any of our free trade commitments prior to being introduced to the House,” says Gary Taylor, Chief Executive of the Environmental ...
NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff is calling on all political parties to support the new Member’s Bill from Labour’s workplace relations and safety spokesperson Camilla Belich MP that would ensure negligent companies are held accountable when their employees ...
A historian with an uncanny track record of predicting US election winners tells RNZ's Sunday Morning that President Biden looks to be on track for another term, but things could still go very wrong for him. ...
Ngaio Marsh House is one of Christchurch’s best kept secrets – and contains more than a few mysteries of its own.Trust Ngaio Marsh to leave more than a few mysteries scattered through her house long after her departure. For a start, there’s the curious concrete portal in the garden, ...
Appointment viewing has been lost to the mists of time, but memories of Montana Sunday Theatre can still be conjured by hitting play on a particular piece of classical music. “You’re not going to be able to sell it.” Over 30 years on, Karen Bieleski still recalls how the task ...
Performance Review King Luxon sat behind His massive polished oak desk. It is Performance Review time. There is a knock on the door. “Enter!” says the King. In steps Minister of Disabilities and Carer Pedicures, Penny Simmonds. “I can explain everything …” she begins. “Fine,” says King Luxon, pressing the ...
The pair opened their first fully collaborative exhibition, Nina for Flowers, last Saturday. Gabi Lardies visited their studio to find out who Nina is and what working together was like.‘It didn’t start out like, ‘This is a show about Nina,’” says Josephine Jelicich, gripping a thermos of peppermint tea. ...
Thank you, Dr Maximilian Oskar Bircher-Benner, for your brilliant invention. I’m another mid-20s Kiwi who had an OE last year. I hopped on my bicycle where France meets the Atlantic and cycled east. I pedalled through the Loire Valley, down rivers lined with willows and ancient wisteria-draped chateaus. I relished ...
Asia Pacific Report From France to Australia, university pro-Palestine protests in the United States have now spread to several countries with students pitching on-campus camps. And students at Columbia and other US universities remain defiant as campuses have witnessed the biggest protests since the anti-Vietnam war and anti-apartheid eras in ...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards, Democracy Project (https://democracyproject.nz)New Zealand Government’s Fast Track legislation. Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government ...
Tara Ward talks to presenter Naomi Toilalo about the new TV show that turns food waste into a three course feast. Naomi Toilalo is standing in the warehouse at Good Neighbour Tauranga, helping unpack the two-and-a-half tonnes of rejected food that will arrive at the community support hub that day. ...
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Following on from that Sunday Column, cited here on theStandard, by David Slack on the popcorn spectacle provided by the Three Willies (or is that two Willies and a Won't He?), I received last week an email from the National Party suggesting I make a donation.
It began, "Voting is open in our critical Port Waikato by-election.
National and Christopher Luxon need this seat to strengthen our National-led government.
But (my name deleted), after we successfully defeated Labour in the general election our war chest is running low."
All that money spent and the three Willies still haven't released their album, "Closing the Deal".
Songs touted for this album include "The Party is Over", "Always on my Mind", "On the Road Again" and "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain", written by that other Willie, Willie Nelson.
Brilliant Mac1. "On the Road Again" being our favourite.
You see whanao I never used hard drugs now the state is forcing me to take their drugs WTF
The state is bent as
These pieces of hippy you Tai are forcesing there mental drugs down my neck they don't have a judge ordered to make me take their poisons .
That's what the act say have to have a judge ordered if one refuses there drugs
Whano it true the drug companies are giving doctors q kick back to push their crap pills.
When you go to a doctor they for high blood pressure say take a pill instead of saying no caffeine sugar ect
And when you are stressed they say take a pill instead of saying get more sun and eat food with higher vitamin e and rest .they now say stop smoking because now everyone knows it bad but back in the day they never said stop smoking probley getting kick backs from big tobacco to
Ka kite ano
Whano
O I forgot the NZ human rights only apply to Neanderthals and wealth people .
Us broke ass people have NO human rights because Neanderthals
Recon we are savages I can see it in their eyes looking down on us brown savages
Ka kite ano
https://youtu.be/GIEU6zie42k?si=qwIQ2MgJ9dXUz1uL
These checky asholes are trying to force me to take their poise pill now fuck
I'm over this shit if these asholes keep this shit up.
I bet no white man in nz gets treated like they are treating me.
This SYSTEM is fucked. no person is going to be happy and complying when you know that there pills are going to fuck my brain
Whanau
These people think it funny forcing me to take their poisoning pills
This SYSTEM IS designed to fuck tangata whenua.
I have seen a lot of positive effects because of ECO MAORI for maoridom.
And not 1 of you are helping me out what the fuck all the positive effects will be losted if I'm not around tangata.
Ka kite Ano
These people are not going obey the laws they are just craping on my human rights my right as tangata whenua.
Yes whanau the system is just shitting on me.
Legally they were to have a rehabilitation plan from the first few days I've been in here.
I had to demand a rehabilitation plan and quote the law to get a plan.
The person in charge is emotionally void the way they ran my rehabilitation plan was a sham as usual they were just antagonising me so they can keep me in their hinaki.
Ka kite Ano whanau
https://youtu.be/fKopy74weus?si=Ppdls6-VFoEYsDnw
You think you words can effect me muppets you know what you can go and do.
This is open mic take that hand out of your ass
And too much dope makes you paranoid mate.
How many Pakeha do you know that get "treatment" without consent?
The MHA of 1992 was supposedly amended in 2021 to end that.
Still no advocates for “patients” – not funded, no one hired?
(unable to edit)
How many Pakeha do you know that get “treatment” without consent?
The MHA of 1992 was supposedly (to be) amended in 2021 to end that.
Still no advocates for “patients” – not funded, no one hired?
https://www.health.govt.nz/about-ministry/information-releases/release-ministerial-decision-making-documents/cabinet-material-policy-decisions-transforming-mental-health-law
Its gibberish to me thats for sure
Powerful stuff.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/18/arab-forces-gaza-jordan-foreign-minister-criticism-israel-us
Thanks for that Mutton…I particularly like and support this said by Ayman Safadi, Jordan’s foreign minister:
"The credibility of international law had fallen victim to its selective application. “If any other country in the world did a fragment of what Israel did, it would have sanctions imposed on it from every corner of the world.”
He said even those who accepted Israel was acting in self-defence “keep telling Israel to act within international law. It is not, so where do we go from here? Keep telling them to do it? They keep refusing to do it. People are being killed day in and day out.”
“International law has to apply to all. The message seems to be that Israel can do whatever it wants."
Because Jordan is an active and willing participant in UN sanctions…. not….
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-libya-security-un-idUSKBN1XL2E6/
"International law has to apply to all" – the /sarc/ tag should have been applied!
The argument appears to be that international sanctions should apply to Israel, but the Arab allies can continue supplying Hamas with weapons (note, Hamas as a terrorist organization, already has international sanctions applied, which Jordan, among other ME countries, has happily ignored).
I don't recall Jordan describing "Denial of food, medicine and fuel" to Kurds in Iraq; or to civilians impacted by the civil wars in Yemen, Syria or Ethiopia – as "war crimes". How do these situations differ from what is going on in Gaza?
Indeed, Jordan rejected the UN claim that Saudi air-strikes in Yemen were war crimes.
https://www.newarab.com/news/jordan-rejects-damning-un-human-rights-report-yemen
Or, indeed, the actual ethnic cleansing going on in Nagorno Karabakh – between Armenia and Azerbaijan, right now. Anyone expecting a 'right of return' should not hold their breath….
https://reliefweb.int/report/azerbaijan/guarantee-right-return-nagorno-karabakh
How about another couple of quotes:
So, the real reason that they won't take Palestinian refugees is that they see them as a threat.
And, adding the final sentence to the original quote:
So, reinforcing that the 'idea' of Israel being destroyed – is the founding basis of Hamas – and explaining why there can be no peace between Hamas and Israel.
And, not even being willing to participate in post-war reconstruction
So, if peace breaks out (though some miracle), tomorrow – no Arab country will participate in the reconstruction.
Who does he think should clean up the mess afterwards? Clearly not Israel (completely unacceptable to the Palestinian Arabs – not to mention the ME countries). Hamas is clearly unacceptable to Israel (because, yanno, terrorist organization which continually fires missles at Israel), as well as not having the capacity to govern in normal times, let alone carry out major reconstruction. Who does that leave? Clearly not the 'concerned neighbours'….
The really interesting difference between this Hamas war, and the 1948-9 All-Arab attack, the 1967 Six Day War, and the 1973 Yom Kippur War, is that in this war Egypt, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon are not joining forces to actually attack Israel with everything they have in order to wipe the entire state of Israel out.
They are akin to pro-Palestinian protesters: doing fuck all about it other than emoting another round of their feelings.
None of those Arab countries will take in Palestinian refugees.
So their leaders just keep making speeches and have discussions about 'the law'.
The net result of no-one wanting to stabilise Gaza out of terrorist hands, is that Israel will have to do it. At which point all those Arab countries are of course "appalled" and smiling all the way to the next armed conflict, which suits their funder client states in Iran and UAE and Dubai just fine.
I agree. In addition, many of the Arab countries have been coming to a live-and-let-live relationship with Israel over the last few years. There is speculation that the timing of the Hamas attack was planned to disrupt the signing of an agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
And, given that all of those wars ended in spectacular failure for the Arab countries, and that their armies haven't got noticeably better over the last 50 years, discretion is almost certainly the better part of valour.
"None of those Arab countries will take in Palestinian refugees."
I'm not here to defend any Arab country – but why should they offer to do this? Particularly because if this offer is on the table, it constitutes only an incentive to Israel to keep killing Palestinians and destroying the infrastructure of Gaza until they all flee. And it seems pretty plain that this is the Israeli (or at least Likud) end game – expulsion out of Gaza and elimination of those who stay behind. The perfidiousness of the Arab states does not change the nature of what may become one of the worst humanitarian crimes in a long time.
Oopsy, you let the mask slip a little there. So force Palestinian civilians to stay in harms way, i.e. use them as a human shield.
I can see how the hamas worldview might appeal to you.
Wow, your own straw man, or did you get some help from the IDF?
Why should people be forced to leave their homeland?
Why should people be forced to become refugees?
Oh your world view is Palestinians are less than human and have no rights, because they have terrorists in their midst?
"I can see how the hamas worldview might appeal to you."
Oh dear. It doesn't take long for total silliness to appear. From what I know of the "hamas worldview", I find it and their actions on October 7 totally repellent.
Apologies. I shouldn't assume.
Egypt managed Gaza until the end of 1967 through a military governor. But is now building a most massive wall and gate against them.
Jordan's administration of the West Bank officially ended in 1988. Jordan welcomed Palestinians after the 1948 war and after the Six Day War. However fighting broke out in 1971 with Hezbolla and proto-Hamas since they thought they could actually take over the state and tried to kill the King. They were expelled for seeking to wreck the country from the inside.
Lebanon has Hezbolla now as part of their government, but Hezbolla and Hamas don't integrate at all well, and don't want Hamas to wreck the country.
Syria administered the Golan Heights until the end of 1967. They still want it back. But they don't want Palestinians to come in and wreck the country – (such as it is).
The UAE and Qatar and Iran massively fund Hamas who have been ruling over Gaza. Qatar only allows the Hamas leadership because they are high end hotel guests.
Saudi Arabia certainly funds Palestinian camps through the UN, but just won't have them in.
None of them take the actual humanitarian step of welcoming fellow Arabs as migrants inwards.
In 1991 Kuwait expelled nearly 200,000 Palestinians out of their land. The Palestinians sided with Saddam and were on side with wrecking the country.
In 1995 Libya expelled most of its Palestinian people – about 5,000 – because Ghadaffi believed the formation of the PLO meant they were no longer refugees. No sign of further "help" for them.
So odd that you think forcing people to become refugees is OK.
A whole lot of shitty arguments you put forward to then say no one wants them, is just more of the fucked up dehumanising of Palestinians.
So well done, as you strip people of the humanity, killing their children is so much simpler.
I wish there were no refugees anywhere in the world.
I wish countries around Israel were good international citizens that allowed international law to apply to them as much as they expect it applied to Israel.
I wish sparkleponyrainbows.
There you go pet.
Did you get upset when I called out your shit? As your response is just more bullshit – countries other than those at war are evil – so killing Palestinian civilians is OK? Anymore twists of logic you want to get involved in?
It seems you're parroting the whole – if your not with us, you are against us. George Bush and his far right horseshit.
1971 was PLO vs Jordan – they got kicked out into Lebanon (and became a target of Israel in 1978 and again 1982).
Libya was responding to the founding of the PA in 1994 after the 1993 Oslo Accords (allowing the PLO/Fatah back into the West Bank).
Why should the first course of action be to find somewhere for the Palestinians to go, rather than try to prevent their expulsion by Israel and find a viable two or one-state solution? Seems extraordinary to me that one would just naturally start from that point.
NZ takes in a number of refugees from different countries. There are refugees from the Middle East and North Africa streaming into Europe. Likewise refugees from Latin America streaming into North America. Hundreds, if not thousands of refugees from Asia and the Middle East have fled to Australia.We are in the “west” are trying to help, many people on the left want to us to do more to take in as many refugees as possible. So I don’t see why the Arab countries won’t help.
[Please correct the typo in the email address in your next comment, thanks – Incognito]
Mod note
Well, why should any country take refugees?
The vast majority of whom are coming from countries where they are a persecuted minority (political, ethnic, religious – the reason doesn't much matter to the victims)
Should we all say, effectively, "stay in camps and rot – until the politics of your home country changes and you can go home"
I don't think that this is a very 'humanitarian' position.
Are you just as hot under the collar about the actual ethnic cleansing going on in Nagorno-Karabakh (involving Azerbaijan and Armenia)? Or does it only matter when Palestinians are involved?
Love this. Israeli supremacists hate it when the whole of Arab nations take up arms, but then complain when they don't, and use diplomacy instead.
You can't have it both ways.
But Bella the fact that the Israelis are unlawfully using violence against civilians makes them terrorists too.
You do not seem to be able to acknowledge that the war has been caused entirely by Israel because of the way it has illegally built a multitude of illegal settlements on ,the West Bank, stealing Palestinian land and killing many Palestinians in the process AND the Israelis have treated Gaza and it's 2 million plus Palestinians as an open jail where the people are not even permitted to swim in the sea.
I would be fighting in the streets if I was treated like that.
So is every government which engages in wars against terrorists/insurgents (wars which may have civilian impacts) – also a terrorist government?
That is not the usual definition. And doesn't seem to be the one proposed (by you or others) for any other state which has found itself in this situation (Russia, Yemen, Syria, Ethiopia – the list can go on).
Following your argument, that would make the Allies in WW2 (carpet bombing of Dresden and Tokyo amongst other instances) – terrorist states.
Well, yes. That is because I do not believe that this war (or any of the other attacks on Israel) have been caused "entirely by Israel".
I think Israel has a part in the causes of the conflict. But so do Hamas (their founding document absolutely denies the right of Israel to exist – not to mention ongoing openly terrorist tactics on the civilian population); and so do the surrounding Arab states (refusing to re-settle those Palestinians who want to get out of a war zone).
Your simplistic acceptance of 'Palestine good' 'Israel bad' – doesn't reflect the real world. Nor is it helpful in finding a solution (if, indeed, one can be found).
Just an FYI – the population of Gaza is around 778K – not 2 million.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/world-cities/gaza-population
Bella-All quotes I have seen from many media sources have said Gaza has a population of 2 million plus. Corbyn said 2.2 million in his latest post.
I suggest you look up the definition of terrorism. Netanyahu is a terrorist.
You appear to be totally unaware of the history of Palestine, especially the Nakba.
(BTW there is definitely an argument that the allies should not have carpet bombed Dresden and other places in Germany. Similarly the Americans probably didn't need to destroy as many cities as they did in Japan and they certainly didn't need to drop the second atomic bomb)
I'm pretty well acquainted with the history of Israel and Palestine, also the Middle East, and the colonial history from the Romans onwards. Which is why I believe that there is no 'good' and 'evil' side here.
I suggest that you look up the definition of terrorist. Netanyahu is a political leader. You may dislike his policies, but as the leader of a legitimate state, you can't describe him as a terrorist. Any more than you can call Putin, Xi, or Kim terrorists. He is acting within the laws of Israel, and Israel is conducting a war against a foreign state (Gaza) which is the military base for Hamas – a terrorist organization which has made a terror raid into Israel, deliberately targeting civilians.
Hamas are not fluffy little kittens. There is a very good reason that they are designated as a terrorist organization, internationally. And very good reasons why Israel do not trust them to keep any agreement.
There is zero trust on either side. And mutually exclusive basic principles (Hamas doesn't believe Israel should exist, Israel believes that it should)
Perhaps you could also familiarize yourself with the virtually complete ethnic cleansing of Jews from every Arab state – going on before, during and after the Nakba. Or is does it only matter if Palestinians are affected?
The difference is that Israel took in and re-settled the Jewish refugees in Israel. Arab countries in the Middle East refused to do the same for the Palestinians.
Apologies for getting the pop wrong – I'd confused the city with the strip.
Clearly that is complete bullshit because just a bit further down you said…
Clearly you are too stupid or too lazy to be "…pretty well acquainted with the history of Israel and Palestine.." or its legal status.
Gaza is legally an occupied territory in a state of war. It has never been recognised as being sovereign state because of that occupation. In particular it has never been recognised as such by the state of Israel. That has been the legal basis of the air-land-sea siege of Gaza that Israel has maintained before and since the IDF left in 2005.
Or put another way, the Arab states refused to recognise that Israel's theft by force of Palestinian lands and properties. That was where Israeli settled Jewish refugees and the other carpetbaggers that came with them.
Your statements might have made sense if
I assume you are relying on the legal position of heads of sovereign states. But that is just means that you are a wanton and rather dumb hypocrite.
You cannot technically describe any Palestinian as a terrorist if they are resisting an force occupying or besieging their territory. They are partisans of the nascent state of Palestine that was to have been established in 1948 under the auspices of the UN, then occupied by Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.
Israel occupied parts of the Palestinian territories inside the armistice lines. Egypt and Jordan remained in occupation of Gaza and the West Bank respectively until they were occupied by Israel in 1967, and both have since renounced any claims that they might have had to those territories. Israel has not – they have simply withdrawn and maintain control on both territories.
Essentially both you and the Israelis are deliberately lying when they describe Palestinians fighting against a occupation or besieging force either within their own territory, or in the territories of their enemy state as terrorists. They are partisans or resistance. They are not terrorists.
That is the direct consequence of Israel never actually allowing the formation of an actual sovereign State of Palestine since 1948. There is no sovereign body with which to negotiate a peace treaty with. Nor have they made peace with any body that would allow them to formally annex the territory because that would have also made them formally responsible for their new citizens – more Palestinians.
Essentially Israel has been responsible for Palestinians behaviour and well being in Palestine under every international law in areas that they occupied since 1948 or 1967 depending on which occupation you're looking at. However Israel is fundamentally a state that hasn't been up to that basic requirement of any real state. Instead they just steal land, property and commit crimes against humanity – just as they are in Gaza right now.
It was noticeable that both Jordan and Egypt did a far better job of their occupations until 1967.
Israel simply haven't been up to the task of building relationships with them. Either that or they like the ambiguous position of Palestinians because it makes it easier for Israel to steal from them.
BTW: your idea of history appears to be to read really stupid propaganda and believe it. Now I have left some awesome holes in my narrative. But I’m betting that you are far too ignorant to see them or even to understand them. In the event you respond, I will happily point out the propaganda, that you are clearly incapable of researching and forming your own ideas – and my opinions about what causes your deficiencies…
Gaza City (historic place) is only part of the Gaza Strip.
"So is every government which engages in wars against terrorists/insurgents (wars which may have civilian impacts) – also a terrorist government? "
Not necessarily, but going on their actions stretching back for decades in the case of Israel, yes.
So can you give an example of another government you would regard as a terrorist?
Plenty of governments do things we disagree with. I'm not too happy with Russia's actions in Ukraine, or China's against the Uighar's or pretty much any of the bloody, internecine conflicts in half the Middle East (Syria, Yemen, Ethiopia, just to name a few). Would you regard those governments as terrorists? If not, what is the difference between them and Israel?
The conflict looks to be uncreating hamas at present.
As an aging white male in provincial NZ, I'm in a very small minority amongst my peers when I rate Nania Mahuta highly.
Her interview on Q&A this morning has only raised my view of her intellect and ability. Fantastic review of her career. I wish her all the best, she leaves a gap I hope Labour doesn't struggle to fill.
Ditto, from another old white fart.
I think you will be disappointed. The Labour talent chest is pretty bare. (As is National's).
A bit off topic but I wonder why, when our country and the world, have so many serious challenges impacting us, we seem to have so many small people leading us.
Politics is a rough business. MPs all go in thinking they will change the world, and find that the vast majority have little ability to change anything. Disillusionment (especially if you're an opposition back-bencher) sets in quickly.
It also chews up and spits out families. The number of marriage breakdowns must be higher than just about any other area of employment.
In addition, the media have a vested interest in finding out every tiny questionable detail about your past life, and writing it up for clicks. It seems that only the most anodyne, PR polished portfolios are suitable as candidates. And, these are rarely the best and brightest (most great leaders have made mistakes in their early life/career).
The cancel culture at its best/worst.
I do distinguish, here between past history, and current behaviour – bad behaviour in sitting MPs absolutely needs to be called out. Although I do think redemption should be possible. I sincerely regret the departure of Kiri Allen from politics – although, I bet she doesn't.
Even at the top party levels, people often decide that they can make more of a difference/have a better life – outside politics – cf Russel Norman & Jacinda Ardern. And, very few would ever go back (Sue Moroney was appalled by the idea when it was floated to her as a panellist on National Radio)
Though one can name those who both do more than 3 terms and achieve substantial stuff for New Zealand. On both sides of the house.
The interesting question is whether, if they were starting out today, they'd be selected as candidates by their party. I think, in many cases, the answer would be 'no'.
"(especially if you're an opposition back-bencher)"
I think that it would far worse to be a Government backbencher than it would be to be in the Opposition. At least in Opposition you may get the chance to ask real questions and if you can get a Minister ruffled you have some chance of promotion.
In Government a backbencher might, if they are very good, be given a question to ask so that a Minister can boast about how great they are. Anything else you do will be exactly what the whips order you to do.
The opposite will be the case if you are on the front bench. The Opposition frontbenchers can feel the pain of of not being someone with real power and perks.
I agree in the house, however select committees do provide the opportunity for government backbenchers to make a contribution to legislation with a good chance of being enacted.
TBH – I regard most of what goes on in Parliament as political theatre – rather than governance.
However, her actual achievements in government are …. less than spectacular.
She was an adequate Foreign Minister. Although, copped quite a bit of criticism for not travelling as much as the job requires. But no spectacular successes, even if there weren't dismal failures.
However, by any measure, she was a very poor Local Government Minister. Her big challenge was to get local government on board with the 3 waters changes. She failed.
Whether it was arrogance, or poor communications, or unwillingness to listen, or whatever combination of reasons; she not only failed to persuade local government, she left them feeling that they'd been lied to, and belittled by the infantile advertising campaign she authorized.
She also failed in her attempts to effectively communicate what co-governance means to the rest of NZ. How it would work in practice. And how everyone's rights to water (and potentially other resources) would be protected. Again, she failed badly.
I don't hold her solely responsible for this. Ardern needs to carry quite a bit of responsibility here, as well. Especially when everyone could see that it was going wrong. Ardern should have pulled the co-governance element, much earlier; or replaced Mahuta, much earlier; or put together a dream-team coms group to sell the concept (not sure if this would have been achievable at the beginning, but it certainly wasn't by the end)
In addition, she tried to pull a fast one in working with the GP to entrench the law – completely blind-siding her Labour caucus colleagues, who had been informed this was off the table. Ardern should have fired her as a minister for this.
Possibly a combination of arrogance and tone…
She was excellent up close and very principled.
IMHO the primary blame for the death of 3 Waters lies with MFE and Internal Affairs local government leads. It ain't that hard to design fulsome engagement processes that build towards bringing the entire public with you. To me it looks like MFE and DIA were half-hearted and just ramming the bill through was going to be enough.
Entirely possible. But still Mahuta's failure to manage her department.
And the coms – especially the reversal of 'you can opt out' to 'you have no alternative' – was absolutely in her court.
I think you underestimate the extent to which provincial areas are essentially fiefdoms of local farming and business interests and Councils are the political wing of those interests. Anyone who proposes giving local Maori any meaningful influence over anything (not just water) that potentially threatens those interests is likely to call down a firestorm on the own head. The best way to rapidly progress 3 Waters would have been to remove co-governance before even starting. If this means more broadly that the progress made since the 1980's in recognising the Treaty and the Maori view of the world has reached it's terminus, or is about to be rolled back, we are in deep trouble.
I think you underestimate just how off-side she got with major urban councils as well.
I agree that co-governance was an unnecessary distraction if the aim was to get 3 waters embedded in law. However, I don't think that this is the case, for Labour/Greens – I think that co-governance was equally as important as water reform, in their minds.
Yup fair
But how exactly do, "MFE and Internal Affairs local government leads" combat outright racism in rural district councils and the farming community they represent?
This, of course, is where the primary blame lies.
If a minor itinerant preacher can do a nationwide tour to sell their anti-Treaty message, it wouldn't have killed MfE and DIA to do the same with a passel of Labour Ministers in tow.
Do a short movie, a monthly Youtube uplift, a social marketing campaign apropos MMP or anti-smoking, organise a few marches, a couple of rousing anthems. Jesus it's not hard.
Just basic retail politics.
The minor itinerant preacher is preaching to the converted. The converted hold all the power in local rural politics.
If you begin by characterising those who you want to persuade as 'racist' – there is little chance of any bridges being built.
There is no persuading those people. Racism in colonial, rural New Zealand is ingrained, and on top of that profit is at stake. Water use must be controlled by white farmers. Local councils have managed to ensure this continues.
You're missing the fact that a significant part of provincial opposition to 3 Waters was loss of local control to a centralised body. I support co-governance, but no way would I trust an urban organisation in Christchurch designed by Wellington to know what is needed in the rural SI, and I'm not alone in that.
My feeling is that most of the opposition to centralisation was that a central body would take into account the concerns of the whole rather than the most powerful. This is what centralisation means.
Rural councils are populated by, and represent farming interests. They don't have to answer to the disenfranchised, the low income, and the asset-less class because local body democracy simply does not work for these people.
Low turnout and highly funded farming industry campaigning is a sweet spot for profit at the expense of the environment and those who supply labour. The vehemence with which these groups and their proxies fought Three Waters showed how much they rely on control of water. The thought of having Maori at the table just wouldn't do.
I'd say the comment shows that the infrastructure aspects of 3Waters were subordinated to the co-governance aspects.
But – you go on in your patently obvious belief that the rest of the world is out to get you.
The effect of co-governance on the 3waters governing bodies, meant that the area covered by each body had more to do with iwi groupings, than watersheds. FFS – one crossed over the Cook Strait.
This comment shows the campaign by the faming industry worked. They appealed to intolerance and fear, leaving supposed middle voters convinced 3 Waters was about Maori stealing things rather than improving water infrastructure and management.
The default of calling everyone who disagrees with co-governance 'racist' – effectively makes it impossible to debate the topic with you.
Your position means you have zero chance of convincing any of the middle voters – and so your politics is bound to fail, in a democracy.
Possibly.
I note that you're not defending her record.
So noted
The international moves of any note were led by O'Connor in trade.
Who was a truly excellent trade minister. One of the best I recall.
Yes, and soon we will have the Winnie and Dodgy show…
I don't have any information on who the Trade Minister will be in the new government, and I doubt you do.
Much better to wait and see who is tapped for this role, before pouring scorn.
Agree aj.
I met Nanaia 10 years ago and was very impressed with her intelligence and grasp of politics. It did not surprise me when Jacinda gave her Foreign Affairs. The problem was, she was Maori and she made sure everyone knew she was there to represent Maori.
Racism is just below the surface of a large proportion of the population.
Signs the net is slowly closing on wealthy fraudsters in New Zealand. I hope scrutiny of trust abuse continues.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/teens-among-the-highest-earning-beneficiaries-of-trusts-inland-revenue/HXGLJ3LWMVHWZLH4SNTACNYS64/
Paywalled.
Pfft IRD have known about this for years.
When I turned 18 I got a nice letter from a bank letting me know my trust investments was now accessible without the need for a trustee signature. Neither my parents nor myself knew anything about this.
Well off Aunty had trust accounts all in our kids names – enough for each of us to buy a house and have some left over. Unsurprisingly I still haven't seen a cent and I'm in my late 50's now.
Should be a register of beneficiaries of all trusts for this and other reasons.
Presumably if you die at a Taylor Swift concert you go directly to heaven.
https://www.salon.com/2023/11/18/taylor-swift-reacts-to-of-young-fan-at-eras-tour-concert-in-rio-de-janeiro/?in_brief=true
Did no one think of having water hoses or sprinklers during the day for cooling (before the concert) places to shelter and access to water (water bottle refills)?
https://www.stuff.co.nz/entertainment/301011294/taylor-swift-fan-dies-at-concert-during-heat-wave
One wonders if the bi-partisan foreign policy position is going to hold throughout the interminable duration of the preparation for the 100 day government …
https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/11/19/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-calls-for-immediate-gaza-ceasefire/
Developments
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/politics/2023/11/national-accuses-labour-leader-chris-hipkins-of-playing-politics-with-gaza-ceasefire-call.html
Foreign developments.
Evacuation of Khan Younis.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-67462610
Hostages release and 5 day cease-fire.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/world/2023/11/israel-us-and-hamas-reportedly-reach-tentative-deal-to-free-dozens-of-hostages-and-pause-fighting.html
Or not.
The White House says there is "no deal yet" to halt the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, after media reports emerged claiming a five-day ceasefire had been agreed.
White House National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson added the United States would "continue to work hard to get a deal," but that no agreement had been finalised on Sunday.
Her statement came following a report from The Washington Post, which claimed Israel and Hamas would suspend the conflict and release women and children hostages, sparked a wave of speculation that an official announcement may be imminent.
https://www.skynews.com.au/world-news/no-deal-yet-white-house-denies-reports-of-fiveday-israelhamas-ceasefire-confirms-talks-are-in-progress-to-halt-conflict/news-story/9eae9cc62fef9e2ad65a08071d49630a
Speaking during a lengthy press conference, Netanyahu also dismissed “a lot of incorrect reports” about imminent agreements to free some or all of the roughly 240 people being held, adding that “as of now there is no deal.” He said that if a deal emerges the Israeli public will be updated.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/pm-says-bucking-intl-pressure-against-gaza-op-stresses-as-of-now-no-hostage-deal/
RNZ full press statement:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/502776/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-calls-for-a-ceasefire-in-israel-gaza-conflict
Good on you Chris Hipkins. Caught them on the hop. Too wrapped in their own coalition bubble to give a hoot about a rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Now they cry foul "Hipkins is playing politics". Large black pots calling a wee kettle black.
Hipkins finally looks down into his trousers and discovers he does have two after all. Better late than never.
Agree, finally but hands are tied. "Hipkins is caretaker Prime Minister while the new Government is being formed, but his latitude to act and speak in that role is limited because he must consult with members of the incoming Government.
On Friday, the caretaker Government had talked with National about calling for a ceasefire. National did not agree to that so Hipkins decided to go it alone and call for a ceasefire as Labour leader, rather than Prime Minister of the caretaker Government."
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/israel-hamas-war-labour-leader-chris-hipkins-calls-for-ceasefire-in-gaza-breaking-convention-it-has-become-untenable-for-me/IQ7TK6XBMBFF5ERRMPPUHQITHY/
I'd be doing way more of this. There is a political vacuum created but the ineptitude and/or stubborn entitlement of Chris Luxton.
Why wouldn't a government and/or opposition make the most of it?
While lprent sleeps some sports news.
In 2019, the AB's lost to the team who lost the final.
In 2019, the Black Caps scored 241 for 8 and England tied the score to draw the game ..
In 2023, the Black Caps lose to India who are playing Oz in the final
India score 240 all out, so Oz have to match the England total of 2019 for there to be a winner this time round.
Sports a bit like elections, it's the end result that counts – except that errors made by officials do not change the final count (TMO was wrong to stop the awarding of a try etc but the result on the day stands).