Open mike 19/10/2014

Written By: - Date published: 7:30 am, October 19th, 2014 - 137 comments
Categories: open mike - Tags:

openmikeOpen mike is your post.

The Standard is not a conspiracy – just a welcome outlet for the expression of views. Leaders that command respect will not be undermined by this.

The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy).

Step up to the mike …

137 comments on “Open mike 19/10/2014 ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. AsleepWhileWalking 1
    19 October 2014 at 8:09 am

    Comedian Russel Brand on “The Trews” commenting on those in the media who have right wing opinions on welfare. I thought the guy was a little nuts but have found his analysis of media enjoyable.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Hj8pTdpxQI

  2. phillip ure 2
    19 October 2014 at 9:14 am

    any other elizabeth warren fanboys/girls out there..?

    ..i want warren to be the next president of america..

    ..she is all of our best hope..

    ..for some positive change..

    (here is a warren primer/archive..to get you started..)

    http://whoar.co.nz/?s=elizabeth+warren

    • Chooky 2.1
      19 October 2014 at 12:47 pm

      thanks for that on Elizabeth Warren…..some hope for the USA yet….and certainly a way better than Hilary Clinton!

      • phillip ure 2.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 1:29 pm

        the idea of clinton getting the democratic nomination makes me shudder…

        ..and so far warren hasn’t put a foot wrong in her slow but steady growth of her support-base..(more power to her..!..)

        ..warren is a seriously impressive person..

        ..and says much that resonates with me like a ringing bell..

        (..and maybe..if she loses..we cd invite her down here to lead the labour party..?..)

  3. phillip ure 3
    19 October 2014 at 9:17 am

    go and watch the labour candidates debating on q & a..

    ..and feel/watch yr heart sink..

    ..hear them all speak meaningless aspirational bullshit..

    ..see their charisma-bye-passes on the wide-screen…

    ..see the greens overtake labour in the polls..

    ..in the very near future..

    ..and mahuta comes across as the most honest..

    ..seriously..!

    ..the rest are saying absolutely fucken nothing..

    • Belladonna 3.1
      19 October 2014 at 9:31 am

      Not at all inspirational. Seems they would all choke if they had to use the word
      ‘beneficiary’. Activists were mentioned, presume they dont mean any from The Standard as I cant imagine any activist support coming from TS.

    • phillip ure 3.2
      19 October 2014 at 9:33 am

      and the rightwing-trouts seem to have accepted int-mana as a useful scapegoat/whipping-boy..for their defeat..

      ..what a sad sad outing this has been..

      ..this is what the labour party has become..eh..?

      ..and this gaggle of neo-lib also-rans (truculent in their rightwingedness)..is the best they have..eh..?

      ..so uninspiring..you could almost bottle it..

      • phillip ure 3.2.1
        19 October 2014 at 10:27 am

        cd i kick off the ‘bring back cunliffe!’ movement here/now/today..?

        ..it just seems timely..

        ..i have seen the future..and it isn’t looking too crash-hot..eh..?

        ..if they don’t..2017..and until then..

        ..will be a trainwreck in oh so slow motion…

        .tell me how it won’t..

    • David H 3.3
      19 October 2014 at 9:35 am

      All busy saying exactly nothing to make me want to come back and vote for them.

    • Clean_power 3.4
      19 October 2014 at 9:47 am

      @Mr Ure: I have to agree with you. It was rather depressing.

    • amirite rawshark 3.5
      19 October 2014 at 12:20 pm

      Phillip, if I remember correctly, Key used to go on about similar “aspirashunal” crap in the lead to 2008?-2011 election, which makes Labour MPs aspiring to a Leader’s role blind followers of the same RW bullcrap.

      • phillip ure 3.5.1
        19 October 2014 at 1:16 pm

        ’14 was ‘aspirtional’ for key/national..too..

        ..no policy..

        ..just the secret agenda..

        ..two bits of which we have seen..so far..

        ..sell off all the state houses..

        ..and go to war..as americas’ spear-carrier..again..

        ..and i am still reeling from the revelation that goff/the clark govt. sent the top military people to america..

        ..to beg for us to be included in the afghanistan-adventure…

        ..how fucked up is that..?

        ..so key didn’t sell out our ‘foreign policy independence’..

        ..that was already long gone..

        ..by the time he turned up/hoved into view….

        • Molly 3.5.1.1
          19 October 2014 at 6:31 pm

          From what I remember from Nicky Hager’s book, top military men from NZ were meeting US military without the knowledge of Helen Clark, and some of these meetings were kept completely secret.

          And they lied to the Helen Clark government as well.

          Haven’t got the book with me, so can’t check. Maybe someone else can.

          • Murray Rawshark 3.5.1.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 8:56 pm

            In some cases they were, yes. Air Force officers were also giving treasonous lectures at ADFA about how Helen Clark was a socialist lesbian who didn’t support freedom and the Kiwi economy would be stuffed without the TPPA and other free trade agreements. The military do not seem very patriotic at all sometimes.

          • phillip ure 3.5.1.1.2
            19 October 2014 at 10:53 pm

            @ molly..

            ..r u saying those military people took us into the afghanistan invasion without clark/goff knowing about it..?

    • Chooky 3.6
      19 October 2014 at 12:50 pm

      yes Nanaia Mahuta is Labour Party’s only hope!

      ….but never mind if they dont elect her as leader …..then the Greens will take over as the lead party on the Left !

    • Once Was Tim 3.7
      19 October 2014 at 4:15 pm

      I can’t @ PU. I don’t have a widescreen and I’ve no plans to get one until the current cathode ray tube craps out OR I put a sledge hammer through it. (I’ve been known to drop them from great heights to watch them implode, but I suspect if I did so, these days I’d have the AOS at the front door)
      No doubt the MSM will give their interpretation, and I’ll get a fairly good idea of the content when I put it through my ‘nzmsm translator’ (in the digital age, it basically converts zeros to ones, and ones to zeros, applies a few other alogorithms NRZ and NRZI), and I get a pretty good idea. (the translator is pretty good really because I don’t have to suffer a bunch of pillocks out to exercise their egos – there are plenty of other platforms for them to do that)

  4. Tony Parker 4
    19 October 2014 at 9:18 am

    Rod Oram’s column in the SST today is excellent. Hits the nail right on the head with regard to Dirty Politics, Slater and the influence of the powerful.

  5. Rosie 5
    19 October 2014 at 9:30 am

    Lols. Hows your local branch of National Front doing these days? Looks like they are on a membership drive if yesterdays organising activity was anything to go by.

    Was at work yesterday when a bunch of them came past waving huge NZ flags and putting leaflets under the windscreen wipers of parked cars. Boss went out and got a leaflet so we could see what it was all about.

    They are organising around the topic of the NZ flag, they don’t want it changed. Ok, but here’s a tip for the NF – If you don’t want to be laughed at, apart from the usual reasons people laugh at you, and you want to be taken seriously, get some one to proof read your flyer before you print it.

    Eg: “Don’t let the Politians change our flag with something that looks like it was cut from a rugby shirt”. Yes, it was “politians” and “with” instead of “to”.

    Also, from their membership application form: “I authorise the secretary of the National Front to release this application form the the Electrol Commission for the purpose of registering New Zealand National Front under the Electrol Act 1993”.

    Yes it was “electrol”.

    If, next year Key gets really busy with his diversionary LALALALALALA!!!!! lets change the flag buzz, your 6pm news could become quite entertaining if the NF gain some traction with their campaign.

    • karol 5.1
      19 October 2014 at 9:41 am

      “electrol” – ah, we have a few of those around here.

      • Rosie 5.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 10:05 am

        My thoughts too karol. I had to smile when I read the leaflet.

        • Colonial Rawshark 5.1.1.1
          19 October 2014 at 11:01 am

          small note: they will be getting new members and motivation from this flag thing.

          • Rosie 5.1.1.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 1:51 pm

            Exactly CV, it is clearly an organising activity with the goal of increasing membership and profile. The flag thing just happens to be a perfect vehicle for organising – they will aim to reach “patriots” who are not necessarily active white supremacists, and who are not aware of what the NF are really about.

            With a broader membership base they can pretend they represent “ordinary” NZer’s and distance themselves from their core activity of expressing hatred. The flag agenda is perfect foil.

          • Murray Rawshark 5.1.1.1.2
            19 October 2014 at 9:05 pm

            I suspect they’ve lost a lot of members to Winston First already. Most of their policies are pretty much the same. They just go a bit overboard with the race hatred stuff, whereas Winnie just talks about huge mansions out in Howick and the sale of farmland to non-American foreigners.

  6. Morrissey 6
    19 October 2014 at 10:31 am

    The government’s dodgy “Chief Science Advisor”

    Another excellent item by Wayne Brittenden on Radio NZ National this morning, this time about a disturbing government campaign against outspoken scientists like Dr Mike Joy. Leading the campaign is the grandiosely titled “Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor” Dr Peter Gluckman, who has come up with a “Code of Ethics”, which would forbid academics from speaking or writing about anything other than their own narrow research interests.

    Dr Gluckman, however, sees no need to apply the same standard to himself. A political zealot, he often strays way beyond his own level of competence when he speaks publicly….
    http://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-27032011/#comment-313255
    http://thestandard.org.nz/open-mike-01082011/#comment-358776

    I sent the following email to Wallace Chapman…..

    The hypocrisy of Dr Peter Gluckman

    Dear Wallace,

    It is rich irony to hear that the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor Dr Peter Gluckman is leading a campaign against academics who “go beyond their remits and stray into advocacy.” Dr Gluckman has several times on National Radio expressed extreme and prejudiced views about Israel, painfully demonstrating he has done little or no serious reading on the subject. if he followed the rules he wishes to inflict on our scientists, he would have remained silent.

    Yours sincerely,

    Morrissey Breen
    Northcote Point

    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 6.1
      19 October 2014 at 11:19 am

      What are Peter Gluckman’s ties to the National Party?
      Has he fully declared them yet?

      • Morrissey 6.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 11:48 am

        As we have seen with the recent comments by Messrs Goff and Shearer, one does not have to actually belong to the National Party in order to cooperate fully with it.

    • Chooky 6.2
      19 October 2014 at 1:25 pm

      +100 Morrissey …yes superb dissection piece by Wayne Brittenden as usual ( Gluckman is Orwellian in that he is there to close down debate in the name of science)

      …in fact Wallace Chapman’s whole programme is thought provoking and intelligent ( best of radionz these days)

      …media watch asks provoking questions about ISIS/terrorism laws and a new Media outlet backed by Slater and friends?

      http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/mediawatch/audio/20153945/mediawatch-for-19-october-2014

      this item on white collar crime is also worth listening to…certainly puts beneficiary fraud in perspective

      http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/sunday/audio/20153949/the-cost-of-economic-crime

      • Rodel 6.2.1
        19 October 2014 at 9:35 pm

        Had to laugh at media watch’s discussion of the new news media outlet–watisit ?’ ‘freed’ or something? involving some benefactor entrepreneur and Cameron Slater considering Slater’s resurrection of ‘Truth’ “”newspaper””.

        I just wonder who would apply to work for such people..Maybe the Kyle Chaman the guy from ‘Keep NZ White?’ Not Paddy Gower, Hoskings or Henry surely.They’re too professional. (Sarc)

    • Once Was Tim 6.3
      19 October 2014 at 4:21 pm

      Jeeeeeez @ Morissey! I wonder what Glukman’s area of expertise and limitations should apply to his own son. @ PU – perhaps you might have an opinion?
      I suspect he thinks a respectable period of time has elapsed – one that’s only applicable to the ‘in crowd’.

      There but for the Grace of God go you Mr Glukman – you fucking hypocrite pillock

  7. Rosie 7
    19 October 2014 at 10:41 am

    “We look after our own”.

    Jason Ede gets a job at Teamtalk, owned by the brother in law of Amy Adams, plus other assorted dodgy Nat links:

    “Ware’s wife Belinda Milnes is an adviser to Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett, having quit this week as Families Commissioner, and her sister is Communications Minister Amy Adams.

    Former National deputy leader Roger Sowry is the independent chair of Teamtalk. Prime Minister John Key’s Official Information Act gatekeeper Sarah Boyle, who worked alongside Ede, is listed as holding shares in Teamtalk worth about $300,000. Ware said she was trustee of his family trust and also godmother to Ware and Milne’s daughters.”

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/10634251/Political-influence-denied-in-Edes-work

    I’ve been away from politics for two weeks. Has Sarah Boyle had a spotlight shone on her for her role in the politically motivated release of OIA requests?

  9. small thing 9
    19 October 2014 at 10:49 am

    The flag- it – situation
    Keys new distraction to get people looking at him because everyone know who he is now- the perpetrator of the new americanisation of NZ
    Maybe Key should declare the TTPA in his version of the flag by stating with their flags on ours, the countries that will own us after the agreement goes thru
    Stick your flag in your mouth Key and chew on that- mite keep you from telling anymore lies

    • blue leopard 9.1
      19 October 2014 at 11:02 am

      I support a change in flag but only as long as “Propaganda rulz o.k. #sellouts” are required to be on all the options. 🙂

      [+1 Small Thing ]

  10. Not a PS Shark Sashimi 10
    19 October 2014 at 11:32 am

    Referendum: protect our Housing NZ Stock

    Referendum: to TPPA or Not?

    • Tautoko Mango Mata 10.1
      19 October 2014 at 11:35 am

      Absolutely NaPSSS

      • greywarshark 10.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 5:19 pm

        What about a referendum on how to keep closer watch on the health of our financial system and the extent of fraud?
        As we know from previous research, welfare is way down the bottom of offenders.
        And I don’t know if they have added in overpayments, which are being repaid from current payments.
        http://www.radionz.co.nz/audio/player/20153949
        http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/257185/economic-crime-costs-up-to-$9-point-4bn-draft-report

        Economic crime is costing New Zealand up to $9.4 billion a year according to a draft Serious Fraud Office (SFO) report obtained by Radio New Zealand.
        At the beginning of last year the then Minister for the SFO, Anne Tolley, was reported as saying that a number of Government ministries had been working for two years on a report quantifying the cost of economic crime and it would be presented to Cabinet in the near future.
        But the report did not make it to Cabinet and was not released.

        (RadioNZ has set itself to generate news about the government and other matters through following up on OIA material. And this is interesting. And also how there is a slip between cup and lip! The pollie may pronounce on something as if it is under way and oversight, but then it may never be heard of again, as apparently in this case. But Radionz has unearthed it for us. Take note when dissing Radionz.)

        lprent if you could bring up the image when you have time that would be good.
        This is the Image Location if that’s what’s needed – the item url is at the top.
        http://www.radionz.co.nz/assets/news/26285/eight_col_sfo-economic-crime.png?1413530776

  11. Tautoko Mangō Mata 11
    19 October 2014 at 12:05 pm

    So Grant Robertson says the Labour party “should’ve been clearer about their unwillingness to work with the Internet Mana party during the election campaign.”
    I actually wonder if this is correct.
    What if Labour had come out in support of Mana and defended Mana’s right to use DotCom’s money as long as there were no strings attached and pointed out that National donations seem to come with strings attached to corporations, honours lists, contracts etc. Maybe saying that National were just sore because they didn’t get DotCom’s financial backing (which was supporting good social, environmental and clean tech policies) may have at least shown that the Left was more cohesive. Labour kicking DotCom was confusing, plus the rather manufactured blue-green move in the last week gave the appearance of a group of parties in no position to form a stable coalition.

    • blue leopard 11.1
      19 October 2014 at 12:25 pm

      I agree with this TMM

      I’m getting really worried about these comments coming from the Labour leader contenders – it is like they have learned nothing. 🙁

      I disagree with those who are saying ‘it wasn’t made clear enough’ because it was very clear that IMP were not going to be invited to the table of power.

      There is all this talk of Labour needing to appeal to blokes, or people who are disturbed by Dotcom, or ‘centrists’ – but there are very few comments on how taking such a stance might put other sections of NZ off supporting them – and maybe even voting altogether. I would like to see that this aspect is being considered in the discussion too – but I haven’t any evidence that it is.

      I really hope Labour isn’t going to keep indulging in these halfbaked theories and half-baked strategies. It really hasn’t worked for the left at all.

      Dear Labour Leader Contenders,

      Please show us there is more than just thoughtless knee-jerk reactions being discussed in the formulation of your theories and strategies.

      Thanks

      • Draco T Bastard 11.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 1:21 pm

        I’m getting really worried about these comments coming from the Labour leader contenders – it is like they have learned nothing. 🙁

        They haven’t leaned anything, specifically, they haven’t learned to stand on their own their own principles and keep borrowing National’s lack of principles.

        • blue leopard 11.1.1.1
          19 October 2014 at 1:30 pm

          +111 Well said

          Would you check out the suggestion I made in my comment to Tautoko @11.1.2.1 below?

      • Tautoko Mangō Mata 11.1.2
        19 October 2014 at 1:26 pm

        I felt that Labour bought Into the National Party narrative on Dotcom. He (KDC) has not broken the law in this country but the GCSB did. When you are chasing the centrist vote, then you lose control of the narrative and end up copying rather than formulating your own. Labour should never regard other potential coalition parties as opponents but rather as potential partners. Surely this is one of the biggest lessons to be learnt from this last election.

        • blue leopard 11.1.2.1
          19 October 2014 at 1:34 pm

          +111 I thoroughly agree. It would be ‘neat’ if leftwing pollies would read these comments.

          …maybe a question could be posed to Parker today, to get the message across?

          You into it? Or DTB? If not, perhaps I will, but am a bit over asking questions of these people.

          • red blooded 11.1.2.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 5:05 pm

            Oh, come on, people! We criticised National when they were being funded by the 7th Day Adventists – people using their money to sway the voting public, but not actually voting themselves. Well, KDC did the same thing. He was more open about it, but his motivations were somewhat muddled (let’s recall that he basically has right wing views – buddied up with John Banks pretty damn quickly and only looked elsewhere when he had personal reasons for wanting to bring down Key).

            While I think there’s room for some version of the Internet Party and that the Snowden revelations deserve public enquiry and action, the fact is that people didn’t like feeling like KDC was pulling the strings and trying to use their votes for his own purposes.

            • Colonial Rawshark 11.1.2.1.1.1
              19 October 2014 at 5:43 pm

              Well, KDC did the same thing. He was more open about it

              It’s therefore NOT the same thing at all. All political parties have wealthy funders, and Dotcom’s approach was more transparent than most. And completely unlike the Closed Brethren who tried to wage some kind of covert campaign.

              Where IMP got it wrong was that they thought Dotcom’s celebrity status was a plus during their campaign, when in fact by the last month, it was becoming a big minus.

            • blue leopard 11.1.2.1.1.2
              19 October 2014 at 5:50 pm

              That is just it, Red Blooded – you are quite happy to conclude that ‘people didn’t like it’ – yet where are you really engaging with the clear message from the public that ‘people don’t mind’ vested interests when it is a right-wing phenomenon.

              Or, actually, I am not sure what the pivotal factor is that classes the right-wing use of money as acceptable – and what Dotcom did as unacceptable.

              Was it, as I implied earlier, because it is o.k that the right do it, but when the left do it it is unacceptable?

              Is it because the right-wing hide it? That ‘people’ prefer the whole lacking-of-transparency way the right deal with their finances? That being open about it is what ‘people’ didn’t like?

              Maybe it was because Dotcom is a German? That was cited plenty of times.

              Because he is overweight? Owns a book by Hitler?

              Or perhaps these are just actually all weak excuses that people use for supporting the right over the left?

              One thing is for sure, it can’t have been because he donated to John Banks, which was rather off-putting for me, because that would be incredible that people would run toward a government where a party that John Banks had been in had a chance at power.

              Really, who knows why there is such a striking double standard?

              Or maybe it is that the right-wing are much better at commanding the narrative than the left?

              This last point brings the discussion to the point I, and others, are making.

              i.e. you can simply decide ‘people didn’t like it’ or look a bit deeper as to what factors went into this dislike – was this opinion solely ‘from the people’ or fomented by spin? (You know, like linking a German with Hitler and stuff like that) Was there anything the left could have done to calm this dislike or was the response we got – buying into the spin – the best course of action?

              • Manuka - Ancient Order of Rawsharks …
                19 October 2014 at 6:30 pm

                KDC could have done with a personal adviser, when he thought to get into politics.

                Some of it was his own doing. Why on earth would he hang onto a copy of Mein Kampf?? I don’t care what it’s worth, lose it! Get rid of it. Or sell it and donate the money to charity.

                I tripped over a copy once at the Tip. I had picked it up before I realised what it was. It was very old, good condition – It burnt itself out of my hands faster than I could do more than read the title and author. Some things evoke such deep revulsion that they contaminate all that surround them.

                • Molly …
                  19 October 2014 at 6:40 pm

                  Re: Mein Kampf – I’m the counter to you.

                  Found the book in a box of throwouts, and brought the copy home to read one day. It has not yet made it to my bedside table.

                  When I do get round to it, it is because I want to understand what arguments and ideas he used that made a nation complicit with such horrific human rights violations.

                  … am becoming less certain that I need to read it, after going through NZ’s last election.

                  • Manuka - Ancient Order of Rawsharks …
                    19 October 2014 at 6:54 pm

                    … am becoming less certain that I need to read it, after going through NZ’s last election.

                    Yes. It has been a learning curve. 🙁

                • Colonial Rawshark …
                  19 October 2014 at 9:12 pm

                  KDC could have done with a personal adviser, when he thought to get into politics.

                  I think that was what Bomber was there for.

              • Manuka - Ancient Order of Rawsharks …
                19 October 2014 at 7:50 pm

                Blue Leopard, The single most significant thing that Labour could have done to turn things around was to not run an electoral candidate in Te Tai Tokerau.

                I know that is not exactly what you are asking, but if that had not happened we would be looking at a rather different scenario right now. And the people who’s right it should be to answer the questions you’re asking, and who are best suited to do so, namely Hone and Laila, would be able to speak out in ways that everyone could hear.

                • blue leopard …
                  19 October 2014 at 8:19 pm

                  Yeah, that’s a funny one for me. Due to being influenced by [only] a few comments that relayed people in that electorate would not respond well to having their choice removed, I thought Labour were right to have a candidate but Davis should have been way higher on the list.

                  I absolutely recognise this idea is a pretty manipulative, game playing approach, and perhaps removing the candidate would have been fine, I really don’t know and am simply sharing the thoughts I have had on the matter.

                  Regardless of the ‘how’ I do wish something more strategic had been pursued and that Hone & Laila were in parliament this term because, as you say, they are very good at speaking out in ways that everyone can hear.

                  And I do wonder how many voted for IMP that were first time voters, and how they feel to having no representation after having voted. Will it put them off voting?

              • Manuka - Ancient Order of Rawsharks …
                19 October 2014 at 8:18 pm

                was the response we got – buying into the spin – the best course of action?

                Buying into the spin was an absolute disaster for Labour!

                What people saw/ read or heard was “Dear Leader” calling the shots, tugging the reins and the obedient horses drawing him along, veering in whichever direction he wished!!

                News in the leader-media one day: ‘ “Labour is lurching to the left!” ..says dear leader.’
                Obedient compliance by Labour the next, “No, no, dear leader, we are not at all. Look — we want nothing to do with those awful IMP ratbags!! No, no … You are right dear leader, they are certainly not the way to go and we obey you too!”

        • phillip ure 11.1.2.2
          19 October 2014 at 1:35 pm

          they have learnt nothing..

          ..parker brushed away that question..

          ..with the farcical claim that labour would beat them all..

          ..and wd get back to 40% under him..(w.t.f. is he smoking..?..and can i have some..?..)

          ..and i predict labour will plunge into the teens in the polls..

          ..and that will happen soon…

          ..this leadership contest is more of a wake…

          ..than anything else..

          ..and isn’t it all happening so fast..?.

        • Chooky 11.1.2.3
          19 October 2014 at 1:39 pm

          +100 TMM

        • Manuka - Ancient Order of Rawsharks 11.1.2.4
          19 October 2014 at 9:53 pm

          Totally agree with your post TMM, on all points.

      • wekarawshark 11.1.3
        19 October 2014 at 1:54 pm

        “I disagree with those who are saying ‘it wasn’t made clear enough’ because it was very clear that IMP were not going to be invited to the table of power.”

        What Robertson, Little and co appear to mean is that IMP should have been excluded from any agreement, not just part of the power game. I thought DC was clear enough – IMP wouldn’t be part of any coalition, but he left the way open for support on C and S.

        Ironically Little refused to give a clear answer when asked directly if Mana held a seat and would make the difference between Labour being able to form govt or not, would Little choose Mana or to be opposition? He actually gives such a weaselly answer that I have to take the whole “it wasn’t made clear enough” stuff as rhetoric.

        http://thestandard.org.nz/qa-with-andrew-little/#comment-908883

        • blue leopard 11.1.3.1
          19 October 2014 at 1:59 pm

          Actually, what you have shared highlights the exact point that Tautoko made at comment 11.1.2 & DTB’s point too.

          They are actually boxing themselves into a very awkward corner by pursuing this narrative re IMP

          • Colonial Rawshark 11.1.3.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 5:45 pm

            They are buying into, and extending, the right wing’s framing on IMP. Everyone is desperate to be onside with what they think is the top 20% of NZ society.

        • Chooky 11.1.3.2
          19 October 2014 at 7:39 pm

          @ weka ….yes at least David Cunliffe was honest…but even he could have said thankyou very much IMP for your support ( unlike his ‘buddies’ who seem to think IMP is the devil incarnate)

          …and it was a non issue as to whether Mana/int would be included in caucus because they only ever wanted to be in a position to support a Labour led Left coalition govt !…( Harre and Harawira made this very clear)

          …the Labour Party by its insularity and male competitiveness and buying into the right wing propaganda has shot its own voters down and alienated further once Labour voters (now nonvoters) ….and destroyed any chance it had of forming a Labour led coalition govt…..pathetic !

          Mahuta as leader is the Labour Party’s only chance left

      • RedBaronCV 11.1.4
        19 October 2014 at 1:57 pm

        “There is all this talk of Labour needing to appeal to blokes, or people who are disturbed by Dotcom, or ‘centrists’ – but there are very few comments on how taking such a stance might put other sections of NZ off supporting them”

        Now this is a statement that I couldn’t agree with more. There seems to be all this emphasis on chasing the male vote, but frankly everytime someone sounds off about gaggles of gays, feminists , man bans etc, do they think that people who fit these demographics and vote for Labour are going to continue to do so in the face of their interests being sledged?

        If it is a position the party is comfortable with then defend it and go over to the attack. ” Well Nact manages to have an effective woman ban, Best person for the job=Murray McCully ROFL “

        • KJT 11.1.4.1
          19 October 2014 at 4:40 pm

          Yep. always thought they should just front it, instead of apologising.

          Say. “Left wing parties are about inclusion, not exclusion. We are for everyone, not just for a few wealthy foreigners, and their NZ employees”.
          (unlike National Inc)”.

          • blue leopard 11.1.4.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 7:27 pm

            KJT,

            Unsure whether the comment re ‘wealthy foreigners’ would have worked with regard to the Dotcom hysteria (lol) but your example shows how simple it actually is.

            Which begs the question, why aren’t they doing it??

            • KJT 11.1.4.1.1.1
              19 October 2014 at 7:48 pm

              I saw Labour back down so many times, when “public opinion” really the opinion of a few self appointed media gurus, had a go at them.

              (Pam Corkery was correct).

              Cunliffe’s “holiday” was a good example.

              But it happened on so many other things that it must have been an undermining from within. I don’t think any of the guilty should be rewarded with the leadership.

              • Colonial Rawshark …
                19 October 2014 at 9:15 pm

                You point to lots of big problems. The wrong advisors giving the wrong advice; and Cunliffe himself trying to play the cautious (and ultimately weak looking) “I promise I’ll never do it again” tack too often instead of coming out and front footing issues with gusto.

                • greywarshark …
                  19 October 2014 at 9:36 pm

                  colonial rawhark 9.15
                  Winston could have led Labour okay certainly with him “front footing issues with gusto.” Either Labour join up with NZF or members who want to get a Party that is ABL should think about going to him. He might not be tops, he is likely to be better, he could not be worse.

                  • Colonial Rawshark …
                    19 October 2014 at 10:53 pm

                    I think the research is showing that a fair number of Labour voters have started to move to Winston First. But what happens when he disappears, after one or two more terms?

                    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                      19 October 2014 at 10:56 pm

                      The ‘new’ generation of oldies can establish the Robertardern Party?

                    • Colonial Rawshark …
                      19 October 2014 at 11:04 pm

                      Grant Robertson Leader, Jacinda Ardern Deputy, David Parker Finance. Crosby Textor will be down on their knees every night praying that this happens.

                    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                      19 October 2014 at 11:07 pm

                      Ok, this will be a mouthful: the Robertardenker Party.

                      Maybe easier just to call it the Gracinda Party.

                      I might even put make a donation for a kickstart.

                    • Colonial Rawshark …
                      19 October 2014 at 11:14 pm

                      Definitely hard to swallow.

                    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                      20 October 2014 at 4:34 pm

                      Thanks for the reference to the comment here on The Standard from Twitter [https://twitter.com/Tat_Loo/status/524036381496991744].

                      I can confirm that I had never come across (heard, read or been told by anyone) the portmanteau ‘Gracinda’. It arose in the course of my comments above. Before I typed it, I did also google to find out if anyone else had come up with it in NZ (answer: no).

                      Having said that, it would have been quite possible that someone else had mentioned it, offline or online. It is not uncommon for two or more people to think up the same thing, whether next to each other or some distance apart, at about the same time.

                      I do not have any need for acknowledgments, although it would be nice for The Standard to get some publicity since it is an influential blogsite … which some politicians do not read.

                      As an aside, I did think up various other portmanteau, eg Jacant (but that sounded like vacant, which some might think quite appropriate but I didn’t have the heart to have the two of them stigmatised), Grandern (a bit too majestic for my taste) and even Grajac (that didn’t roll off the tongue very smoothly, unless if the ‘j’ was pronounced more like a ‘y’, but it still risked having ‘off’ attached to it). So I rejected those formulations.

                    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                      20 October 2014 at 4:52 pm

                      Oh by the way, has anyone seen the copy of Woman’s Day with Gracinda as sartorially coordinated puppy twins in mint?

                    • Colonial Rawshark …
                      20 October 2014 at 5:19 pm

                      Ah-ha thanks for the insight into your creative process. And yeah, that mint green thing was a bit ill. In several respects.

                      Got to hand it to Grant though, the guy knows about the importance of soft media, and prepares well in advance for it. (That shoot must have been done several days ago, surely).

                    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                      20 October 2014 at 5:19 pm

                      For the record, Grinda was considered but was dismissed straight [hah] away.

                      Grinda would have sounded too much like the gay dating app, Grindr (launched circa 2009) which preceded Tinder (circa 2011).

                      As you can see, quite a bit of creative thought, and weighing of pos & neg had gone into all this during a recreational moment late yesterday evening!

                      Gra+ might consider that tying up his political fortunes with +cinda might be an advantage but somehow that seems quite doubtful when it comes to really unifying Labour’s broad-base of membership-union-caucus.

                    • greywarshark …
                      20 October 2014 at 9:18 pm

                      Colonial rawshark
                      That’s then. Drowning men grasp at straws. Who knows where we’ll be in one or two terms? Radical rethinks are needed now.
                      We don’t even need a bailey bridge, just some stepping stones will get us above and away from the outgoing tide.

        • blue leopard 11.1.4.2
          19 October 2014 at 7:30 pm

          +1 RedBaron & LOL re that McCully comment!

  12. greywarshark 12
    19 October 2014 at 1:49 pm

    @ blue leopard 12.25 pm
    I think Labour should spell out their policies on a level playing field basis. Set out the policy headings in which they will be directing their interests and then list what they will be working on under.
    These vague promises ‘ a pocketful of mumbles’ that leave them fairly free to play pooh sticks and run to the other side of the bridge to pick out which comes floating up first, don’t cut it with the peeps.

    So how would that go:
    1 Workers –
    Safety for physical workers, ie forestry, mine – looking at physical danger.
    Dairy workers etc looking at problems from food and water borne diseases.
    Health -Plenty there
    Remuneration – living wage
    Anti-social hour addition to wage
    Making wages a preferential item in failing businesses
    Wages to be paid daily for casual workers
    Wages to be paid weekly for those on rosters
    Wages to be paid in whole or part weekly for contractors
    Salaries to be paid weekly or monthly at the wish of the recipient over $50,000
    2 Housing
    3 Transport
    4 Health
    5 Employment, volunteer work, training, interactive community assistance ie old to
    youth and vice versa.
    6 Taxation, ways of distributing GST for distribution to regions infrastructure,
    petrol tax, tourism tax, bio border taxes. Portion of taxes to be available for
    human investment – training youth, assisting entrepreneurship, vitality in the
    economy etc
    7 Human relationships – assisting co-operation, managing personal emotions –
    less outbursts of anger, intolerance, violence.
    Fair treatment related to need, women’s health and wellbeing, men’s and
    children’s.
    Welfare – a proper treatment of beneficiaries, so each person is putting something into the Country’s social system as they can manage. Parents should be getting plenty of help and receive training in parenting, which would gain them NCEA credits and be relevant to the ages of their children. They should be respected.
    Jail – the whole punishment system be looked at again. Most would be learning while in jail, educational, emotional IQ and skills of all useful sorts.
    8 Retaining business and jobs in the country. Understanding big business
    objectives and capping or assisting them as suitable.
    Small business – micro individuals and encouraging them to be effective
    and honest. Mid-small – enabling them to increase market share, plan and
    gain recognition in their area or region and assist in building angel funds
    from citizens around them, who would then have agreements to have first
    option on the sale of a business. (This to stop business shifting away or
    falling into foreign ownership with profit becoming debt or going offshore.)

    And so on. These are just from the top of my head. Have we ever seen this sort of list issued to the public by political parties? Summarised, with bullet points and more details available on line for each bullet point. With an invitation to belong to an interest group that could bring up pros and cons and their own vision to help think through the focus groups perhaps knee jerk feelings about policies.

    Seeing the thoughts and intentions written would put paid to the idea that it was a one-trick pony Party, only concerned about unions, ‘identity politics’, and ultimately have no muscular
    ideas for creating a thriving, prosperous country. And would provide something solid for the bovine NZ male to tackle and which would stand up to spear tackles that would kill off brittle, ideological policies full of only hopeful thinking.
    edited

    • blue leopard 12.1
      19 October 2014 at 2:17 pm

      Oh heck, I couldn’t stop laughing re your phrase ‘a pocketful of mumbles’ lol that so sums it up.

      An easy-to-read list of policies sounds good but there is part of me that feels this was much what was available on their website and there was something that Andrew Little said about not having a policy for everything that struck a chord for me.

      I mean, just look at what National presented – nothing but ‘Trust me [John Key], I/we know what I am/we are doing’ and New Zealanders bought it! 🙁

      Just playing with ideas here – I personally like a clear list but have a bit of doubt due to realising what I like and what a majority of NZ voters seem to like are quite, well, incompatible…

      • greywarshark 12.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 9:45 pm

        Blue l 2.17
        Yes true. But laying it out under those headings would get rid of the ferals ‘we want a reel man’ thing. The next thing they go on about is concentrating identity politics, and there are a few in town who think that. It would be important to prove to everyone that you were going to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time.

        And about the election and National’s lack of anything solid. Labour was in the traditional role of the woman, having to be twice as good to be considered and appreciated. Coming in second was not an option, clever thinking, persuasive committed upbeat needed rather than earnest. Positive was the right feeling to emphasise, but it should have applied to the tone of voice that the policies were presented in. As a slogan, it was a lot less than the catchphrase remembering WW1 or 2 – Keep Calm and Carry On.

        Pocketful of mumbles – Paul Simon The Fighter/Boxer

        • Colonial Rawshark 12.1.1.1
          19 October 2014 at 10:58 pm

          Labour did not lose the election because of policy. An extra 100K votes between Labour and Greens, and the left would have owned that election. Oh yeah, cutting deals to bring in IMP and get rid of Dunne would have been very helpful as well.

  13. lprent 13
    19 October 2014 at 2:18 pm

    At the kings arms. Didn’t know it was here.

    • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 13.1
      19 October 2014 at 2:29 pm

      Your standard [pun] Sunday arvo moderating at the same ol’ place. As happens, Grant chose that venue. Has he come up to say hello?

    • lprent 13.2
      19 October 2014 at 2:38 pm

      Young crowd. Very few old hands.

      • Bill Drees 13.2.1
        19 October 2014 at 3:48 pm

        YOUNG in Labour means what age band to you?
        Under 50?
        Nash claims to be young at nearly 50!

        • greywarshark 13.2.1.1
          20 October 2014 at 9:22 pm

          Nash looked younger than that to me. I was a bit puzzled as to how he had managed so much backing for a young guy. But now I find he’s about 50. Does he dye his hair?

    • lprent 13.3
      19 October 2014 at 2:46 pm

      Education predictably gets a cheer.

      • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 13.3.1
        19 October 2014 at 2:54 pm

        I cheered when Laila Harre announced Internet Party’s education policy too. I wonder how different Grant’s position is from IP’s.

        • lprent 13.3.1.1
          19 October 2014 at 3:06 pm

          I will see if they have a ecopy of their speech notes.

          • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark 13.3.1.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 4:00 pm

            Thanks.

            I am trying to figure out what they might have been cheering about, besides hearing the word ‘education’, from the speech that has been uploaded:

            http://www.grantrobertson.co.nz/campaign_launch_speech

            • karol 13.3.1.1.1.1
              19 October 2014 at 6:04 pm

              Robertson can make some very impressive speeches. But I can’t help thinking this launch is more image than substance.

              And Robertson use of Ardern seems to highlight his weakness – ie that he won’t be able to win the leadership on his own – needs her image at his side.

              • Kiwiri - Raided of the Last Shark …
                19 October 2014 at 11:31 pm

                It was the launch of Aucklington’s most famous super politico-couple with the names of the two dynamic politicians to be combined to forge a new beltway moniker: Gracinda.

                • Colonial Rawshark …
                  19 October 2014 at 11:43 pm

                  You are bad, bad, bad. Gracinda! lol

                  And Robertson use of Ardern seems to highlight his weakness – ie that he won’t be able to win the leadership on his own – needs her image at his side.

                  I don’t get this. One little bit. Ardern has no support in caucus independent of Robertson. Grant picking her shifts absolutely zero caucus votes his way, off Little, Parker and Mahuta.

                  So he must think that naming Ardern will bring over general membership votes and/or union delegates votes. Really? Why? Because she is a woman and brings gender balance to the top table?

                  I think its a serious miscalculation.

    • lprent 13.4
      19 October 2014 at 2:49 pm

      He has the right idea about when you start a an election campaign. Right now.

      Announced Jacinda as preferred deputy.

    • lprent 13.5
      19 October 2014 at 2:55 pm

      Good stump speech by J…

  14. bearded rawshark 14
    19 October 2014 at 3:22 pm

    Go the Greens in the UK!

    http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/oct/18/green-party-general-election-12-seats-england

    This acts as a reminder that with 10.7% the Greens here can get 14 seats out of 120.

    In the ridiculous FPP system in the UK they are dreaming of getting 12 seats out of of over 600.

  15. Clean_power 15
    19 October 2014 at 5:13 pm

    Despite of the format, Robertson was the most convincing of the candidates this morning. Little came across badly and will have to improve his presentation skills. Mahuta was a non-event, while Parker came second.

    My prediction: Robertson to win the leadership contest. Ardern will be his Deputy.

    • Lanthanide 15.1
      19 October 2014 at 7:13 pm

      Robertson will have an up-hill climb with the unions.

      Robertson and Little’s support in Caucus and Members will likely mirror each other. Nanaia likely to come 4th, with DP 3rd, and their subsequent preference votes are probably more likely to go to Little than Robertson.

      So in the end, I think Little will pull through a little ahead of Robertson, due to the unions,

      • Colonial Rawshark 15.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 8:36 pm

        I seriously doubt that Robertson will get the most first preference votes from the membership, too. Lots of insiders realise that he was right at the heart of the leadership instability over the last few years.

  16. ExStatic 16
    19 October 2014 at 6:34 pm

    Fascinating over at The Blog That Shall Not Be Mentioned, Slater on a crusade against National and Key. Apparently a paid hit by Collins. This will get interesting……

    • BM 16.1
      19 October 2014 at 7:19 pm

      Slater is now persona non grata and isn’t taking it well.

      Expect more of the same drivel from Slater, which will only make his situation worse.

      • Paul 16.1.1
        19 October 2014 at 7:34 pm

        Don’t read his blog.

      • ExStatic 16.1.2
        19 October 2014 at 8:24 pm

        His “mods” appear sociopathic, the whole thing is falling over.

        • ropata mako shark 16.1.2.1
          19 October 2014 at 8:55 pm

          It’s a clickbait farm, except for the paid PR pieces or nasty hit jobs. Avoid.

          • ExStatic 16.1.2.1.1
            19 October 2014 at 9:01 pm

            Fascinating, some of his regular commenters asked him if his attack on Key is a paid hit by Collins. Nek minnit they’re all banned! Must be true then?

            • BM 16.1.2.1.1.1
              19 October 2014 at 9:09 pm

              His blog is shit now, the majority of his “articles” are just stories from the herald or stuff where he’s added a sentence or two giving his opinion on the linked story.

              The only original stuff he does is where he writes a piece on how awesome he is and how he’s the all knowing grand master of politics who makes or break governments, lol what an ego.

              He’s either losing/lost his marbles or is completely fucking deluded.

              • RedLogixFormes …
                19 October 2014 at 11:08 pm

                I suspect he relied on material substantially sourced by others.

                Yes he may have given some of it a ‘once over lightly’ to put his own spin and style on it – but if you think about it, Slater could never have sustained that level of posting if it has been all his own work.

                • ropata mako shark …
                  19 October 2014 at 11:40 pm

                  Hager’s books shows that Slater does exactly that: nice fluffy press releases published verbatim from paying clients, or character assassination to order.

                  The MSM love his cartoonish villain antics and made-to-order “leaks”. Sucked in by the lure of the big scoop, and too thick to stop and think “Cui bono?”

                  Key has probably seen the writing on the wall and told Slater to fuck right off along with his mate Crusher. So Slater has spat the dummy.

      • ExStatic 16.1.3
        19 October 2014 at 9:02 pm

        He is poison.

        • Rodel 16.1.3.1
          19 October 2014 at 9:42 pm

          Keep telling us what’s going on with the Slater. I won’t log in to his site but still have a schadenfreudeish interest by proxy.

  17. Dan1 17
    19 October 2014 at 8:11 pm

    My wife and I worked our arses off for Labour this last election.
    None of the present candidates look to unite the Labour Party of old. We might go fishing instead.
    Head office has much to answer for.
    When local candidates in the Christchurch area spend election meeting time rubbishing Cunliffe, I think we are stuffed.
    I am not a Cunliffe supporter necessarily but he was our elected leader.

  18. les 18
    19 October 2014 at 8:16 pm

    so Robertson is running on Ardern as his dep…its a race for Mahuta…between Parker and Little as dep.

  19. Draco T Bastard 19
    19 October 2014 at 8:28 pm

    Real broadband

    While AT&T and Verizon argue over an FCC proposal that would set 10Mbps as America’s new minimum speed to qualify as “broadband,” South Korea is positioning itself to introduce 10Gbps fiber service.

    Now you have some idea as to what we’re missing out on due to privatisation.

  20. Clemgeopin 20
    19 October 2014 at 9:59 pm

    WHY RICHARD BRONSON TURNED VEGETARIAN:

    Very interesting article here:

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/teach-me/10635011/Why-Richard-Branson-beefs-about-giving-up-meat

    One study earlier this year found that eating less red meat would be a better way for people to cut carbon emissions than giving up their cars. Becoming a vegetarian is just one option. Looking at sustainable meat-production practices, including lab-grown meat, is another.

    “Today we maintain a global herd of 60 billion animals to provide our meat, dairy, eggs and leather goods,” says bioprinting entrepreneur, Andras Forgacs in this TED talk about “culturing” meat and leather without the animal. “And over the next few decades, as the world’s population expands to 10 billion, this will need to nearly double to 100 billion animals.”

    • Colonial Rawshark 20.1
      19 October 2014 at 11:10 pm

      The world population isn’t going to reach 10B. Or if it does, it will only stay at the level briefly: maybe one generation.

      Liquid fossil fuels to become unaffordable for most circa 2040, coal circa 2060, and massive climate change effects hitting around the same time. That will mark the end of industrial food production and global mass food trade.

  21. Murray Rawshark 21
    20 October 2014 at 3:05 am

    This is very interesting, and has the ring of truth. As far as military stuff goes, I think I agree with the war nerd.
    http://pando.com/2014/10/16/the-war-nerd-nobody-could-have-predicted-islamic-states-retreat-from-kobane-except-me/

  22. r0b 22
    20 October 2014 at 5:16 pm

    Note that David Parker has dropped back in to his Q&A post for some final comments at 40.1

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    Skeptical Science
    25 mins ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Melissa Lee and the media: ending the quest
    Chris Trotter writes –  MELISSA LEE should be deprived of her ministerial warrant. Her handling – or non-handling – of the crisis engulfing the New Zealand news media has been woeful. The fate of New Zealand’s two linear television networks, a question which the Minister of Broadcasting, Communications ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    10 hours ago

  • The Hoon around the week to April 19
    TL;DR: The podcast above features co-hosts and , along with regular guests Robert Patman on Gaza and AUKUS II, and on climate change.The six things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    10 hours ago

  • The ‘Humpty Dumpty’ end result of dismantling our environmental protections
    Policymakers rarely wish to make plain or visible their desire to dismantle environmental policy, least of all to the young. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: Here’s the top five news items of note in climate news for Aotearoa-NZ this week, and a discussion above between Bernard Hickey and The Kākā’s climate correspondent ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    11 hours ago

  • Nicola's Salad Days.
    I like to keep an eye on what’s happening in places like the UK, the US, and over the ditch with our good mates the Aussies. Let’s call them AUKUS, for want of a better collective term. More on that in a bit.It used to be, not long ago, that ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    12 hours ago

  • Study sees climate change baking in 19% lower global income by 2050
    TL;DR: The global economy will be one fifth smaller than it would have otherwise been in 2050 as a result of climate damage, according to a new study by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK) and published in the journal Nature. (See more detail and analysis below, and ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    12 hours ago

  • Weekly Roundup 19-April-2024
    It’s Friday again. Here’s some of the things that caught our attention this week. This Week on Greater Auckland On Tuesday Matt covered at the government looking into a long tunnel for Wellington. On Wednesday we ran a post from Oscar Simms on some lessons from Texas. AT’s ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    13 hours ago

  • Jack Vowles: Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  The data is from February this ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    15 hours ago

  • Clearing up confusion (or trying to)
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters is understood to be planning a major speech within the next fortnight to clear up the confusion over whether or not New Zealand might join the AUKUS submarine project. So far, there have been conflicting signals from the Government. RNZ reported the Prime Minister yesterday in ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    16 hours ago

  • How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log iPhone Without Computer
    How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log on iPhone Without a Computer: A Step–by–Step Guide Losing your iPhone call history can be frustrating, especially when you need to find a specific number or recall an important conversation. But before you panic, know that there are ways to retrieve deleted call logs on your iPhone, even without a computer. This guide will explore various methods, ranging from simple checks to utilizing iCloud backups and third–party applications. So, let‘s dive in and recover those lost calls! 1. Check Recently Deleted Folder: Apple understands that accidental deletions happen. That‘s why they introduced the “Recently Deleted“ folder for various apps, including the Phone app. This folder acts as a safety net, storing deleted call logs for up to 30 days before permanently erasing them. Here‘s how to check it: Open the Phone app on your iPhone. Tap on the “Recents“ tab at the bottom. Scroll to the top and tap on “Edit“. Select “Show Recently Deleted“. Browse the list to find the call logs you want to recover. Tap on the desired call log and choose “Recover“ to restore it to your call history. 2. Restore from iCloud Backup: If you regularly back up your iPhone to iCloud, you might be able to retrieve your deleted call log from a previous backup. However, keep in mind that this process will restore your entire phone to the state it was in at the time of the backup, potentially erasing any data added since then. Here‘s how to restore from an iCloud backup: Go to Settings > General > Reset. Choose “Erase All Content and Settings“. Follow the on–screen instructions. Your iPhone will restart and show the initial setup screen. Choose “Restore from iCloud Backup“ during the setup process. Select the relevant backup that contains your deleted call log. Wait for the restoration process to complete. 3. Explore Third–Party Apps (with Caution): ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    18 hours ago

  • How to Factory Reset iPhone without Computer: A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring your Device
    Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs necessitate wiping your iPhone clean and starting anew. Whether you’re facing persistent software glitches, preparing to sell your device, or simply wanting a fresh start, knowing how to factory reset iPhone without a computer is a valuable skill. While using a computer with ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • How to Call Someone on a Computer: A Guide to Voice and Video Communication in the Digital Age
    Gone are the days when communication was limited to landline phones and physical proximity. Today, computers have become powerful tools for connecting with people across the globe through voice and video calls. But with a plethora of applications and methods available, how to call someone on a computer might seem ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #16 2024
    Open access notables Glacial isostatic adjustment reduces past and future Arctic subsea permafrost, Creel et al., Nature Communications: Sea-level rise submerges terrestrial permafrost in the Arctic, turning it into subsea permafrost. Subsea permafrost underlies ~ 1.8 million km2 of Arctic continental shelf, with thicknesses in places exceeding 700 m. Sea-level variations over glacial-interglacial cycles control ...
    Skeptical Science
    1 day ago

  • Where on a Computer is the Operating System Generally Stored? Delving into the Digital Home of your ...
    The operating system (OS) is the heart and soul of a computer, orchestrating every action and interaction between hardware and software. But have you ever wondered where on a computer is the operating system generally stored? The answer lies in the intricate dance between hardware and software components, particularly within ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • How Many Watts Does a Laptop Use? Understanding Power Consumption and Efficiency
    Laptops have become essential tools for work, entertainment, and communication, offering portability and functionality. However, with rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, understanding a laptop’s power consumption is more important than ever. So, how many watts does a laptop use? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward. It depends on several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • How to Screen Record on a Dell Laptop A Guide to Capturing Your Screen with Ease
    Screen recording has become an essential tool for various purposes, such as creating tutorials, capturing gameplay footage, recording online meetings, or sharing information with others. Fortunately, Dell laptops offer several built-in and external options for screen recording, catering to different needs and preferences. This guide will explore various methods on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Laptop Screen? Navigating Repair Options and Costs
    A cracked or damaged laptop screen can be a frustrating experience, impacting productivity and enjoyment. Fortunately, laptop screen repair is a common service offered by various repair shops and technicians. However, the cost of fixing a laptop screen can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article delves into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last? Demystifying Lifespan and Maximizing Longevity
    Gaming laptops represent a significant investment for passionate gamers, offering portability and powerful performance for immersive gaming experiences. However, a common concern among potential buyers is their lifespan. Unlike desktop PCs, which allow for easier component upgrades, gaming laptops have inherent limitations due to their compact and integrated design. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Climate Change: Turning the tide
    The annual inventory report of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions has been released, showing that gross emissions have dropped for the third year in a row, to 78.4 million tons: All-told gross emissions have decreased by over 6 million tons since the Zero Carbon Act was passed in 2019. ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago

  • How to Unlock Your Computer A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Access
    Experiencing a locked computer can be frustrating, especially when you need access to your files and applications urgently. The methods to unlock your computer will vary depending on the specific situation and the type of lock you encounter. This guide will explore various scenarios and provide step-by-step instructions on how ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Faxing from Your Computer A Modern Guide to Sending Documents Digitally
    While the world has largely transitioned to digital communication, faxing still holds relevance in certain industries and situations. Fortunately, gone are the days of bulky fax machines and dedicated phone lines. Today, you can easily send and receive faxes directly from your computer, offering a convenient and efficient way to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Protecting Your Home Computer A Guide to Cyber Awareness
    In our increasingly digital world, home computers have become essential tools for work, communication, entertainment, and more. However, this increased reliance on technology also exposes us to various cyber threats. Understanding these threats and taking proactive steps to protect your home computer is crucial for safeguarding your personal information, finances, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Server-Based Computing Powering the Modern Digital Landscape
    In the ever-evolving world of technology, server-based computing has emerged as a cornerstone of modern digital infrastructure. This article delves into the concept of server-based computing, exploring its various forms, benefits, challenges, and its impact on the way we work and interact with technology. Understanding Server-Based Computing: At its core, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    1 day ago

  • Vroom vroom go the big red trucks
    The absolute brass neck of this guy.We want more medical doctors, not more spin doctors, Luxon was saying a couple of weeks ago, and now we’re told the guy has seven salaried adults on TikTok duty. Sorry, doing social media. The absolute brass neck of it. The irony that the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago

  • Jones finds $410,000 to help the government muscle in on a spat project
    Buzz from the Beehive Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones relishes spatting and eagerly takes issue with environmentalists who criticise his enthusiasm for resource development. He relishes helping the fishing industry too. And so today, while the media are making much of the latest culling in the public service to ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • Again, hate crimes are not necessarily terrorism.
    Having written, taught and worked for the US government on issues involving unconventional warfare and terrorism for 30-odd years, two things irritate me the most when the subject is discussed in public. The first is the Johnny-come-lately academics-turned-media commentators who … Continue reading → ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    1 day ago

  • Despair – construction consenting edition
    Eric Crampton writes – Kainga Ora is the government’s house building agency. It’s been building a lot of social housing. Kainga Ora has its own (but independent) consenting authority, Consentium. It’s a neat idea. Rather than have to deal with building consents across each different territorial authority, Kainga Ora ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • Coalition promises – will the Govt keep the commitment to keep Kiwis equal before the law?
    Muriel Newman writes – The Coalition Government says it is moving with speed to deliver campaign promises and reverse the damage done by Labour. One of their key commitments is to “defend the principle that New Zealanders are equal before the law.” To achieve this, they have pledged they “will not advance ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • An impermanent public service is a guarantee of very little else but failure
    Chris Trotter writes –  The absence of anything resembling a fightback from the public servants currently losing their jobs is interesting. State-sector workers’ collective fatalism in the face of Coalition cutbacks indicates a surprisingly broad acceptance of impermanence in the workplace. Fifty years ago, lay-offs in the thousands ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • What happens after the war – Mariupol
    Mariupol, on the Azov Sea coast, was one of the first cities to suffer almost complete destruction after the start of the Ukraine War started in late February 2022. We remember the scenes of absolute destruction of the houses and city structures. The deaths of innocent civilians – many of ...
    Open ParachuteBy Ken
    1 day ago

  • Babies and benefits – no good news
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – Ten years ago, I wrote the following in a Listener column: Every year around one in five new-born babies will be reliant on their caregivers benefit by Christmas. This pattern has persisted from at least 1993. For Maori the number jumps to over one in three.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • Should the RBNZ be looking through climate inflation?
    Climate change is expected to generate more and more extreme events, delivering a sort of structural shock to inflation that central banks will have to react to as if they were short-term cyclical issues. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours, as of 9:16 am on Thursday, April 18 are:Housing: Tauranga residents living in boats, vans RNZ Checkpoint Louise TernouthHousing: Waikato councillor says wastewater plant issues could hold up Sleepyhead building a massive company town Waikato Times Stephen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • Gordon Campbell on the public sector carnage, and misogyny as terrorism
    It’s a simple deal. We pay taxes in order to finance the social services we want and need. The carnage now occurring across the public sector though, is breaking that contract. Over 3,000 jobs have been lost so far. Many are in crucial areas like Education where the impact of ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    2 days ago

  • Meeting the Master Baiters
    Hi,A friend had their 40th over the weekend and decided to theme it after Curb Your Enthusiasm fashion icon Susie Greene. Captured in my tiny kitchen before I left the house, I ending up evoking a mix of old lesbian and Hillary Clinton — both unintentional.Me vs Hillary ClintonIf you’re ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago

  • How extreme was the Earth's temperature in 2023
    This is a re-post from Andrew Dessler at the Climate Brink blog In 2023, the Earth reached temperature levels unprecedented in modern times. Given that, it’s reasonable to ask: What’s going on? There’s been lots of discussions by scientists about whether this is just the normal progression of global warming or if something ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Backbone, revisited
    The schools are on holiday and the sun is shining in the seaside village and all day long I have been seeing bunches of bikes; Mums, Dads, teens and toddlers chattering, laughing, happy, having a bloody great time together. Cheers, AT, for the bits of lane you’ve added lately around the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago

  • Ministers are not above the law
    Today in our National-led authoritarian nightmare: Shane Jones thinks Ministers should be above the law: New Zealand First MP Shane Jones is accusing the Waitangi Tribunal of over-stepping its mandate by subpoenaing a minister for its urgent hearing on the Oranga Tamariki claim. The tribunal is looking into the ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago

  • What’s the outfit you can hear going down the gurgler? Probably it’s David Parker’s Oceans Sec...
    Buzz from the Beehive Point  of Order first heard of the Oceans Secretariat in June 2021, when David Parker (remember him?) announced a multi-agency approach to protecting New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and fisheries. Parker (holding the Environment, and Oceans and Fisheries portfolios) broke the news at the annual Forest & ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago

  • Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Bryce Edwards writes  – Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • Matt Doocey doubles down on trans “healthcare”
    Citizen Science writes –  Last week saw two significant developments in the debate over the treatment of trans-identifying children and young people – the release in Britain of the final report of Dr Hilary Cass’s review into gender healthcare, and here in New Zealand, the news that the ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago

  • A TikTok Prime Minister.
    One night while sleeping in my bed I had a beautiful dreamThat all the people of the world got together on the same wavelengthAnd began helping one anotherNow in this dream, universal love was the theme of the dayPeace and understanding and it happened this wayAfter such an eventful day ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago

  • Texas Lessons
    This is a guest post by Oscar Simms who is a housing activist, volunteer for the Coalition for More Homes, and was the Labour Party candidate for Auckland Central at the last election. ...
    Greater AucklandBy Guest Post
    3 days ago

  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links at 6:06 am
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours as of 6:06 am on Wednesday, April 17 are:Must read: Secrecy shrouds which projects might be fast-tracked RNZ Farah HancockScoop: Revealed: Luxon has seven staffers working on social media content - partly paid for by taxpayer Newshub ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • Fighting poverty on the holiday highway
    Turning what Labour called the “holiday highway” into a four-lane expressway from Auckland to Whangarei could bring at least an economic benefit of nearly two billion a year for Northland each year. And it could help bring an end to poverty in one of New Zealand’s most deprived regions. The ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    3 days ago

  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks at 6:26 pm
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: launching his substack with a bunch of his previous documentaries, including this 1992 interview with Dame Whina Cooper. and here crew give climate activists plenty to do, including this call to submit against the Fast Track Approvals bill. writes brilliantly here on his substack ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • At a glance – Is the science settled?
    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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    3 days ago

  • Apposite Quotations.
    How Long Is Long Enough? Gaza under Israeli bombardment, July 2014. This posting is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...
    Bowalley Road
    3 days ago

  • What’s a life worth now?
    You're in the mall when you hear it: some kind of popping sound in the distance, kids with fireworks, maybe. But then a moment of eerie stillness is followed by more of the fireworks sound and there’s also screaming and shrieking and now here come people running for their lives.Does ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Howling at the Moon
    Karl du Fresne writes –  There’s a crisis in the news media and the media are blaming it on everyone except themselves. Culpability is being deflected elsewhere – mainly to the hapless Minister of Communications, Melissa Lee, and the big social media platforms that are accused of hoovering ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Newshub is Dead.
    I don’t normally send out two newsletters in a day but I figured I’d say something about… the news. If two newsletters is a bit much then maybe just skip one, I don’t want to overload people. Alternatively if you’d be interested in sometimes receiving multiple, smaller updates from me, ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago

  • Seymour is chuffed about cutting early-learning red tape – but we hear, too, that Jones has loose...
    Buzz from the Beehive David Seymour and Winston Peters today signalled that at least two ministers of the Crown might be in Wellington today. Seymour (as Associate Minister of Education) announced the removal of more red tape, this time to make it easier for new early learning services to be ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. Our political system is suffering from the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago

  • Was Hawkesby entirely wrong?
    David Farrar  writes –  The Broadcasting Standards Authority ruled: Comments by radio host Kate Hawkesby suggesting Māori and Pacific patients were being prioritised for surgery due to their ethnicity were misleading and discriminatory, the Broadcasting Standards Authority has found. It is a fact such patients are prioritised. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • PRC shadow looms as the Solomons head for election
    PRC and its proxies in Solomons have been preparing for these elections for a long time. A lot of money, effort and intelligence have gone into ensuring an outcome that won’t compromise Beijing’s plans. Cleo Paskall writes – On April 17th the Solomon Islands, a country of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago

  • Climate Change: Criminal ecocide
    We are in the middle of a climate crisis. Last year was (again) the hottest year on record. NOAA has just announced another global coral bleaching event. Floods are threatening UK food security. So naturally, Shane Jones wants to make it easier to mine coal: Resources Minister Shane Jones ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago

  • Is saving one minute of a politician's time worth nearly $1 billion?
    Is speeding up the trip to and from Wellington airport by 12 minutes worth spending up more than $10 billion? Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me in the last day to 8:26 am today are:The Lead: Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago

  • Long Tunnel or Long Con?
    Yesterday it was revealed that Transport Minister had asked Waka Kotahi to look at the options for a long tunnel through Wellington. State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    4 days ago

  • Smoke And Mirrors.
    You're a fraud, and you know itBut it's too good to throw it all awayAnyone would do the sameYou've got 'em goingAnd you're careful not to show itSometimes you even fool yourself a bitIt's like magicBut it's always been a smoke and mirrors gameAnyone would do the sameForty six billion ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • What is Mexico doing about climate change?
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections The June general election in Mexico could mark a turning point in ensuring that the country’s climate policies better reflect the desire of its citizens to address the climate crisis, with both leading presidential candidates expressing support for renewable energy. Mexico is the ...
    Skeptical Science
    4 days ago

  • State of humanity, 2024
    2024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?When I say 2024 I really mean the state of humanity in 2024.Saturday night, we watched Civil War because that is one terrifying cliff we've ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • Govt’s Wellington tunnel vision aims to ease the way to the airport (but zealous promoters of cycl...
    Buzz from the Beehive A pet project and governmental tunnel vision jump out from the latest batch of ministerial announcements. The government is keen to assure us of its concern for the wellbeing of our pets. It will be introducing pet bonds in a change to the Residential Tenancies Act ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago

  • The case for cultural connectedness
    A recent report generated from a Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ) survey of 1,224 rangatahi Māori aged 11-12 found: Cultural connectedness was associated with fewer depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms and better quality of life. That sounds cut and dry. But further into the report the following appears: Cultural connectedness is ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Useful context on public sector job cuts
    David Farrar writes –    The Herald reports: From the gory details of job-cuts news, you’d think the public service was being eviscerated.   While the media’s view of the cuts is incomplete, it’s also true that departments have been leaking the particulars faster than a Wellington ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Gordon Campbell On When Racism Comes Disguised As Anti-racism
    Remember the good old days, back when New Zealand had a PM who could think and speak calmly and intelligently in whole sentences without blustering? Even while Iran’s drones and missiles were still being launched, Helen Clark was live on TVNZ expertly summing up the latest crisis in the Middle ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    4 days ago

  • Govt ignored economic analysis of smokefree reversal
    Costello did not pass on analysis of the benefits of the smokefree reforms to Cabinet, emphasising instead the extra tax revenues of repealing them. Photo: Hagen Hopkins, Getty Images TL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me at 7:26 am today are:The Lead: Casey Costello never passed on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    5 days ago

  • True Blue.
    True loveYou're the one I'm dreaming ofYour heart fits me like a gloveAnd I'm gonna be true blueBaby, I love youI’ve written about the job cuts in our news media last week. The impact on individuals, and the loss to Aotearoa of voices covering our news from different angles.That by ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago

  • Who is running New Zealand’s foreign policy?
    While commentators, including former Prime Minister Helen Clark, are noting a subtle shift in New Zealand’s foreign policy, which now places more emphasis on the United States, many have missed a key element of the shift. What National said before the election is not what the government is doing now. ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    5 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #15
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 7, 2024 thru Sat, April 13, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week is about adults in the room setting terms and conditions of ...
    Skeptical Science
    5 days ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 hours ago

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

  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 hours ago

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

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    8 hours ago

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

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

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

  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Taupō takes pole position
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Government backing mussel spat project
    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 - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Government focused on getting people into work
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    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 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has made further appointments to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand as part of a continued effort to ensure the Scott Base Redevelopment project is delivered in a cost-effective and efficient manner.  The Minister has appointed Neville Harris as a new member of the Board. Mr ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Finance Minister travels to Washington DC
    Finance Minister Nicola Willis will travel to the United States on Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Five Finance Ministers group, with counterparts from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.  “I am looking forward to meeting with our Five Finance partners on how we can work ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Pet bonds a win/win for renters and landlords
    The coalition Government has today announced purrfect and pawsitive changes to the Residential Tenancies Act to give tenants with pets greater choice when looking for a rental property, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop. “Pets are important members of many Kiwi families. It’s estimated that around 64 per cent of New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Long Tunnel for SH1 Wellington being considered
    State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the Government has also asked NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to consider and provide advice on a Long Tunnel option, Transport Minister Simeon Brown ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • New Zealand condemns Iranian strikes
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters have condemned Iran’s shocking and illegal strikes against Israel.    “These attacks are a major challenge to peace and stability in a region already under enormous pressure," Mr Luxon says.    "We are deeply concerned that miscalculation on any side could ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Huge interest in Government’s infrastructure plans
    Hundreds of people in little over a week have turned out in Northland to hear Regional Development Minister Shane Jones speak about plans for boosting the regional economy through infrastructure. About 200 people from the infrastructure and associated sectors attended an event headlined by Mr Jones in Whangarei today. Last ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Health Minister thanks outgoing Health New Zealand Chair
    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti has today thanked outgoing Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora Chair Dame Karen Poutasi for her service on the Board.   “Dame Karen tendered her resignation as Chair and as a member of the Board today,” says Dr Reti.  “I have asked her to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Roads of National Significance planning underway
    The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has signalled their proposed delivery approach for the Government’s 15 Roads of National Significance (RoNS), with the release of the State Highway Investment Proposal (SHIP) today, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.  “Boosting economic growth and productivity is a key part of the Government’s plan to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Navigating an unstable global environment
    New Zealand is renewing its connections with a world facing urgent challenges by pursuing an active, energetic foreign policy, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.   “Our country faces the most unstable global environment in decades,” Mr Peters says at the conclusion of two weeks of engagements in Egypt, Europe and the United States.    “We cannot afford to sit back in splendid ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ welcomes Australian Governor-General
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced the Australian Governor-General, His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley and his wife Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley, will make a State visit to New Zealand from Tuesday 16 April to Thursday 18 April. The visit reciprocates the State visit of former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pseudoephedrine back on shelves for Winter
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced that Medsafe has approved 11 cold and flu medicines containing pseudoephedrine. Pharmaceutical suppliers have indicated they may be able to supply the first products in June. “This is much earlier than the original expectation of medicines being available by 2025. The Government recognised ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ and the US: an ever closer partnership
    New Zealand and the United States have recommitted to their strategic partnership in Washington DC today, pledging to work ever more closely together in support of shared values and interests, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.    “The strategic environment that New Zealand and the United States face is considerably more ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Joint US and NZ declaration
    April 11, 2024 Joint Declaration by United States Secretary of State the Honorable Antony J. Blinken and New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs the Right Honourable Winston Peters We met today in Washington, D.C. to recommit to the historic partnership between our two countries and the principles that underpin it—rule ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • NZ and US to undertake further practical Pacific cooperation
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced further New Zealand cooperation with the United States in the Pacific Islands region through $16.4 million in funding for initiatives in digital connectivity and oceans and fisheries research.   “New Zealand can achieve more in the Pacific if we work together more urgently and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-19T08:52:18+00:00