What can be done about the closure of the Cadbury factory in Dunedin?
Are we really going to allow around 350 skilled staff and a iconic production plant go to waste?
It’s been reported that globally, the Dunedin factory is one of the best-performing operations in the Mondelez family.
Cadbury/Mondelez acknowledge workers at the plant are among the best performing and if it weren’t for their commitment, dedication and outstanding performance, the factory might have closed some time ago.
On top of that, Dunedin has a high quality local milk supply and a port with easy access to international markets facilitating exports.
The Dunedin factory has also been reported as being a pretty profitable business.
Figures from 2015 showed the company reported a profit of $9 million.
Therefore, there is a potential opportunity here.
Interest from Whittaker’s has been sought, but unfortunately Whittaker’s ruled out any interest in buying Cadbury’s Dunedin factory.
However, at this stage, there’s still hope (from the consultation process) the proposal to close the plant will be dropped.
Otago-Southland Employers Association is strongly advocating for Cadbury/Mondelez to retain the factory in Dunedin.
Meanwhile, Otago Chamber of Commerce chief executive Dougal McGowan wasted no time (in an already-scheduled meeting with Central Otago Mayor) trying to find jobs for the Cadbury workers. Pledging the total support of the Chamber to any task-force established to find a way of supporting the workers.
Critical of the statements put out by politicians immediately after the Cadbury/Mondelez announcement, Mr McGowan said it was important MPs got involved in discussions about the future of the plant’s employees.
Failing Cadbury/Mondelez dropping the proposal, can the plant and jobs be saved?
Well, there are numerous possibilities.
Although Whittaker’s declined to show interest, there still could be other local confectionery producers looking to expand, thus be interested in purchasing the plant.
There could be local private investors seeking an opportunity. Or local investment funds such as NZ Super, ACC etc…
Central Government, Dunedin Council or both could consider investing. Ranging from a full out purchase of the plant down to facilitating a low interest loan to a local interested party.
A public crowd-funding project.
The Union could assist employees to form a cooperative to purchase the plant, perhaps with the assistance of local or central Government.
Offshore interest could be sought.
At the end of the day we have a fully staffed plant with export potential ready to go, therefore, it’s in the country’s best interest to ensure this plant continues to be commercially viable and remains in Dunedin.
The call to not boycott Cadbury sounds silly to me. So if Cadbury managed to magically double sales would there be any more chance of them staying? I doubt it. Trying to mind read and please an ugly profit driven corporate is not a good idea in my opinion.
inspider
Noticed since you started dropping in that you tend to make puerile comments. Nothing to add to the discussion, instead some half-arsed sneer. Why bother I ask? You will get lonely and confused with all these thinking people outdistancing you. Go home Red Riding Hood before you get lost. Mortgage your own house and invest in something, perhaps some up-to-date tertiary education.
Personally, I don’t have the time to commit to such a venture.
Nevertheless, it’s been reported Cadbury workers are gaining a lot of public support. Therefore, it would be interesting to see if the NZ public would be willing to support them by taking a punt and fiscally invest through an online crowd funding scheme.
I put up a comment about Cadbury’s workers and it went down to #15 somehow.
All about co-ops – they are getting a push now especially smaller ones, and could have something to offer Dunedin.
This is the point at which it would be useful to have a government that gave a shit. The factory remains profitable despite the best efforts of Mondelez to make crap chocolate that’s inferior to the competition, so a government that understood its job would make sure it stayed running, whether by putting up money for the workers to take it over as a cooperative, or just making it a publicly-owned asset until there’s a private buyer for it. Too bad we don’t have a government worth the name.
Would the parent company be willing to franchise the name and leave the local operation here – not owned by them but making Cadbury branded products? You get the feeling that NZ is seen as a trading nuisance.
That way we could have a locally owned co-operative and either fundraise for that – or make some other local financial arrangements.
Makes a lie of the “we need crap wages” doesn’t it. Lots of Aussie made products here despite there much higher wage structure.
Not sure if Cadbury/Mondelez are interested in franchising. But it is something that could be put to them.
They are however considering the potential of continuing to produce their local products (Pineapple Lumps, Jaffas, etc) here. The current plant would be best suited to continue on that production, thus could be a contract a new owner could potentially secure.
It’s profitable when run by one of the world’s largest companies, producing products with years of brand marketing behind them and a sophisticated distribution system that gets them to market across NZ, Australia and beyond.
That’s no guarantee it would be successful under a new owner. What does the government know about chocolate marketing that makes it sensible to run it? Maybe we should encourage it to step in and save the tattoo parlour and hairdresser in my neighbourhood that are closing down?
“It’s profitable when run by one of the world’s largest companies…”
Yes, yet they are considering laying off staff and moving production offshore.
While brand marketing and distribution networks are important, a fundamental behind any company is its people (staff). The Dunedin factory is one of the best-performing operations in the Mondelez family.
Of course there is no guarantee it would be successful under a new owner, but having such an outstanding production team already in place reduces the risk, thus improves the odds.
“What does the government know about chocolate marketing that makes it sensible to run it? “
They would secure the skill and expertise required as is generally done.
The local tattoo parlour and hairdresser closing down in your area don’t have such a large impact on the economy, thus are no serious comparison.
Critical of the statements put out by politicians immediately after the Cadbury/Mondelez announcement, Mr McGowan said it was important MPs got involved in discussions about the future of the plant’s employees.
Weird. I’m pretty sure that the Chamber of Commerce is one of the main proponents of keeping government out of business.
The Union could assist employees to form a cooperative to purchase the plant, perhaps with the assistance of local or central Government.
That would probably be the best option. Set it up as an independent, self-owned* business that’s run by the people who work there.
* Not owned by either the government, shareholders or the workers. It would be a legal entity with the workers listed as its directors. No, I don’t know the law – this is just how I think all businesses should be.
Nope. Whenever business feels the pinch they reach out for government handouts real fast. It seems to be a general hypocrisy of the business community.
“Nope. Whenever business feels the pinch they reach out for government handouts real fast. It seems to be a general hypocrisy of the business community.”
Which is what I meant about the severity. Other businesses will be impacted by the plant’s closure.
“Do we know why Cadbury/Mondelez plan to close the plant?”
Apparently, the vast majority of their product is exported to Australia and they believe they have the capacity to produce their product there, thus cutting shipping costs etc…
As for selling it as a going concern, as far as I’m aware no final decision has been made. They are currently seeking feedback through their consultation process. However, they have stated they recognise the significance of the site, thus are hopeful of finding a buyer that will use it in a way that supports the local community and economy.
It’s sad for Dunedin culturally, and it’s a huge indictment of the company that they’d throw those workers to the wolves for some extra dosh. I’m not sure that saving the company is the way to go, but buying up the plant and supporting the existing workers to run it co-operatively is a great idea.
Having said that chocolate is pretty dirty business. Not sure it would be possible to run a large chocolate making business in NZ ethically. Maybe.
Why? Because it is child/teacher focussed and does away with useless on going assessments a la Parata. It brings in free ece and does away with Charter schools.
It promotes egalitarianism and puts more into producing better (and trusted) teachers – you know ,the ones who know what the children need.
Nothing on Tertiary as such, they say ece has a better return on investment, and that Tertiary needs an overhaul first.
The phoney war is nearly over.
“The odds of an early collapse of EU-UK Brexit negotiations are shortening by the day. And that’s before talks have started. Usually circumspect analysts have concluded that Theresa May is likely to flounce out in a huff. Prime candidate for the catalyst that spurs an almighty row is a bill for €60 billion that Brussels is reported to be drawing up: the amount that Britain owes for pension liabilities and budgeted spending commitments.”
She actually has control over the negotiations. She signalled this at the outset, when she said no deal would be better than a bad deal.
At the end of two years the UK can simply leave with no further liabilities, and just revert to the WTO rules. It is after all the basis that New Zealand, the US, Japan and in fact most of the world trades with the EU.
The EU will eventually work out they do not hold the strong cards, especially when a US/UK FTA is in the offing.
The EU will eventually work out they do not hold the strong cards, especially when a US/UK FTA is in the offing.
You know, the whole point of the WTO and GATT before it was so that there weren’t, and wasn’t any need for, bilateral trade agreements.
Modern bilateral trade agreements are indicative of the failure of the WTO and the WTO was set up because of the previous failure of bilateral trade agreements.
Why do we keep repeating the same mistakes when we know that they don’t work?
Obviously FTA’ are better than GATT/WTO, but the reality is that a huge amount of trade still occurs under GATT/WTO.
For instance all of NZ’s trade with the US occurs under GATT/WTO.
So while it would be better if there was some form of FTA between the UK and the EU, the UK will still be able to trade with the EU under GATT/WTO, especially in industrial goods. Most of these have very low tariffs under the GATT rules, often zero.
The negotiating edge that May has is that she has a US/UK FTA in the wings. This could easily be extended to Australia, Canada and NZ (Singapore as well). This is the same size market as the EU.
The EU may well decide it needs some form of FTA with the UK to hold onto markets – all those German cars! It will need to be a deal that the UK sees as fair.
So while it would be better if there was some form of FTA between the UK and the EU, the UK will still be able to trade with the EU under GATT/WTO, especially in industrial goods.
That’s an article of faith, not reality.
They don’t work because they lock countries into deals that are actually bad for them. Force them into doing trade that they don’t want to do.
So, again: Why do we keep repeating the same mistakes when we know that they don’t work?
Free trade in industrial goods has been one of the greatest engines of growth since WW2. For the opposite result try out the Smoot Hawley Act. It helped deepen the 1930’s recession.
The history of international trade may look like a struggle between protectionism and free trade, but the modern context is currently allowing both types of policies to grow in tandem. Indeed, the choice between free trade and protectionism may be a false choice; advanced nations are realizing that economic growth and stability depend on a strategic mix of trade policies.
Far better for each individual nation to set standards as to where they will trade and where they won’t. Standards that ensure that each cost is properly accounted for and principles maintained.
None of this forced trade that we see from the WTO. No more nations saying that they will stop trade with us if we demand an inquiry as to why their goods aren’t up to the standards that they were advertised as.
Remove the bloody threats that the present system forces upon us.
For the last several years we’ve had a trade deficit with China. Despite this the NZ$ is still worth more on the forex than the Chinese yuan. Why is this?
The NZ$ should be dropping against the yuan but it isn’t. This is because China keeps decreasing the value of the yuan every time that the global economy goes into recession and their exports start to decrease. Such actions used to be called marcantalism and beggar thy neighbour economics.
So, yes, we have an FTA with China – we don’t have free-trade.
The EU is a lot more than a Bilateral Trade Agreement.
It’s existance arose from a political desire to bring European countries together and to stop the incessat wars. That has been a success.
The EU has Four Fredoms at the heart of its constitution.
Freedom of Movememt of Workers
Freedom of Movement of goods and services
Freedom of Capital
Freedom to establish and provide services.
May and her light-weight team want to ignore the EU as a holistic entity. That is at the heart of their failure.
Cinny, this deal has been in the wind for a long time and is the only sensible way for them to go, otherwise they could well be wiped out (as Labour wants) .I would like to see Hone in parliament again… he speaks truth to power better than anyone else in that cosy little den of neolibs.
I really like Hone, have admired him for a long time. But I’m a bit disappointed.
Just like you I would love to see him in Parliament again, for the same reasons “he speaks truth to power better than anyone else in that cosy little den of neolibs.”
However I just don’t trust the Maori Party after cuddling up with the Nat’s for so long.
Mind you, it is the year of great change, so anything could happen. Maori Party may not cuddle up to National ever again.
That makes sense, but to add more to the daydream, cause am liking the idea of both of them in house.
Labour takes out the rest of the Maori seats, Maori party doesn’t reach the threshold and bye to them.
There’s some unusual political comment at the Herald of late (yesterday’s comments on the poll, for instance), and this is an example of this – I don’t think it’s a valid assumption to assume that most of Te Hira Paenga’s votes would go to Hone Harawira, for instance.
(It’s also probably not a good idea to assume that most of Annette Sykes’ votes would go to Te Ururoa Flavell either)
Judge Mark Buscombe said Lawson ‘giggled’ when police spoke to him after the crash.
He told them, “It worked, it got rid of the car.”
Lawson was taken to hospital suffering ‘psychosis’, the court heard on Friday.
He spent seven months as an involuntary mental health patient following the smash.
Judge Buscombe said Lawson had paranoid delusions.
Medical assessments found he had undiagnosed schizophrenia and was smoking three ‘cones’, also known as ‘bongs’, every day in the 12-months leading up to the crash.
We don’t know if he was stoned or not when the crash happened but we do know that he has mental health issues.
Talk about misreporting.
Interestingly enough, it was this type of misreporting that launched the War on Drugs. Of course, back then they would have gone heavy on the racism as well.
And what condition was the woman in after all that? A very glaring example of lack of empathy for one another, and concentration on correct reporting of cause. The victim is a woman, end of interest.
How quickly the msm divert their attention away from Flynn, Trump and his aides lying about their communications with Moscow ….. towards a stupid story about Sweden
Had the poll come out last night with good news for National Kiwiblog would have been instantly in action with big positive headlines and lots of blather.
Kim Dotcom will be on with J Campbell in a minute, re a ruling that there is no Copyright Law to justify the original arrest or the original charges.
But is liable for fraud deportation. Kim reckons it is a major win for him.
To update that Kiwiblog does now cover the latest poll. In a most pointedly down in the mouth, downmarket way.
Had things been positive there would have been orgasmic splurges last night followed by the metaphorical, cigarette today, with cooly blown smoke rings. Regardless of remarks directed at my reaction, I like displays of childish petulance by the spited.
Kiwiblog has been doing less in the way of commentary on polls since Late Last year. this is no different. Maybe he felt he was giving away his income as a pollster.
Starting a Co-op
Looking to build an enterprise that’s freely established by a group that provides mutual benefits? Here, NZ Co-op can show you how to start a Co-op and how to benefit from the activities of the enterprise, not just from primarily investments.
Since taking on the CEO role at Cooperative Business NZ in April 2016, Craig Presland has received many requests for assistance with setting up new co-operatives. With this in mind, Craig has produced a User Guide for all those considering whether to set up, or otherwise to join, a co-operative. In this document we answer the following questions:
Start Up User Guide for new co-ops, mutuals and societies
How do we progress from a group of individuals with an idea, to forming and registering a company, to drafting a constitution and business plan, to holding our first general meeting, to holding our first AGM 12 months later?
What is a co-operative and how does this vary from standard companies (publicly and privately owned), mutual companies, incorporated societies, building societies, industrial and provident societies, credit unions etc.
What is the history of co-operatives in NZ, and globally, and what other NZ co-operatives are there?
Is the co-operative business model the right one for us?
Which type of co-operative is best for us?
How do we set up a co-operative including best practice governance?
Is our idea business-worthy?
I feel so sorry for the poor downtrodden predominantly white trash “Deplorables”. Now they gotta deal with the fact they gave their all to a crazy man.
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
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. ...
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. ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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’. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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, ...
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, ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 → ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
This is a re-post from Andrew Dessler at the Climate Brink blogIn 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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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, ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
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 Brownannounced ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
The Government’s newly announced review of methane emissions reduction targets hints at its desire to delay Aotearoa New Zealand’s urgent transition to a climate safe future, the Green Party said. ...
The Government must commit to the Maitai School building project for students with high and complex needs, to ensure disabled students from the top of the South Island have somewhere to learn. ...
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey and his Government colleagues have made a meal of their mental health commitments, showing how flimsy their efforts to champion the issue truly are, says Labour Mental Health spokesperson Ingrid Leary. ...
Māori are yet to see anything from this Government except cuts, reversals and taking our people backwards, Māori Development spokesperson Willie Jackson said. ...
The Coalition Government’s refusal to commit to ongoing funding for social housing is seeing the sector pull back on developments and families watch their dreams of securing a home fade away, says Labour Housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty. ...
Changes to minimum wage and benefit indexation means many New Zealanders will get less this year, as the Government gives a big tax break to landlords instead. ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
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 ...
Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the 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 ...
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 ...
The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
In apparent defiance of the Biden administration, the Netanyahu government has now initiated missile strikes against Iran. Last Saturday night (Sunday morning in New Zealand) Iran launched more than 300 drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles against Israeli military targets. With the assistance of US, UK and possibly French forces, ...
Māori representation brings a perspective that encompasses not only the interests of Māori communities but also a broader, holistic approach to environmental stewardship and community well-being, principles deeply embedded in Te Ao Māori (the Māori ...
This week in Auckland, a group of young people took over the microphone at a ministerial press conference, to explain why they oppose the Fast-Track Approvals Bill. One young woman said, ‘We’re here because we love Aotearoa New Zealand. We want to raise our children in an environment that’s thriving, ...
The summer was wonderful. Evie was wonderful, too; finally a teenager, finally worthy of long, hot days. She shaved her legs for the first time and bought cut-off shorts from the op-shop that made them look long. She got a Warehouse singlet so tight on her new shape that her ...
When Thomas James was on his solo camp as part of Outward Bound, the keen outdoorsman didn’t find it too challenging, as others often do. In what might just be the perfect illustration of his character, he saw it as a great opportunity to solve a few problems. “I thought, ...
From the unstable and drippy to the hi-tech and pretty, here’s our ranking of all the tunnels you can drive through in this country. The first tunnel seems to have been built in 2200BC in Babylonia, kicking off a global phenomenon for digging holes in order to get places more ...
Lucinda Bennett on the art of being greedy but resourceful. This is an excerpt from our weekly food newsletter, The Boil Up. When I picture the market, it is always this time of year. Crisp air, dripping nose, counting coins with cold fingers. Sunlight pale, filtered through specks of dew still ...
Zoë Colling’s favourite piece in the ‘That’s So Last Century’ collection is a lubrication chart for a sewing machine from the ’60s. It’s about the size of a postcard, and carefully maintained. “I like it that this piece of ephemera highlights that manual and technical side of the skill involved ...
Kia Ora Gaza A passionate haka reverberated through Auckland International Airport as a medical team of three New Zealand doctors received an emotional farewell from a big crowd of supporters before flying to Turkey to join the international Freedom Flotilla to Gaza. The doctors, who left Auckland yesterday, hope to ...
With submissions closing today, Macassey-Pickard says groups around the country have been supporting a huge range of people to make their submissions. ...
Our response to the new legislation is informed by targeted conversations with practitioners working in the system and through an implementation lens. ...
The new ‘Fast-track Approvals Bill’ would give just three Ministers the power to approve or deny development projects. They would avoid the usual checks and balances that are in place to protect rivers, land, the ocean, and communities. ...
COMMENTARY:By Eugene Doyle Helen Clark, how I miss you. The former New Zealand Prime Minister — the safest pair of hands this country has had in living memory — gave a masterclass on the importance of maintaining an independent foreign policy when she spoke at an AUKUS symposium held ...
The government's released the list of organisations provided with information on how to apply - just hours before public submissions on the bill close. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milton Speer, Visiting Fellow, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney Before climate change really got going, eastern Australia’s flash floods tended to concentrate on our coastal regions, east of the Great Dividing Range. But that’s changing. Now ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Elizabeth Finkel, Vice-Chancellor’s Fellow, La Trobe University Sia Duff / South Australian Museum In February, the South Australian Museum “re-imagined” itself. In the face of rising costs and inadequate government funds, CEO David Gaimster, who took the reins last June, declared ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Pearce, Professor, School of Allied Heath, Human Services & Sport, La Trobe University, La Trobe University This week, Collingwood AFL player Nathan Murphy announced his retirement, brought on by his concussion history and ongoing issues. The 24-year-old’s seemingly sudden retirement, ...
The Mental Health Foundation provides support and resources for those facing the loss of their job, so it’s wrong in the very week the Government adds another 1000 jobs to its tally of cuts, that this is happening. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Howard, Senior Lecturer, Discipline of English and Writing, University of Sydney Daniel Boud/Sydney Theatre Company Decay, terror, revulsion. These are three of the central themes of Thomas Bernhard’s rarely performed play The President. The Austrian is one of the greatest ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ye In (Jane) Hwang, Postdoctoral Research Associate at School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney Shutterstock You’d be hard pressed to find any aspect of daily life that doesn’t require some form of digital literacy. We need only to look back ten ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says threats by ministers Shane Jones and David Seymour to reform or close down the Waitangi Tribunal were “ill-considered”, as legal experts say the ministers may have breached Cabinet Manual conventions. “I think those comments are ill-considered and we expect all ministers to actually exercise good ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rob Newton, Professor of Exercise Medicine, Edith Cowan University Pexels/RDNE stock project You’re not in your 20s or 30s anymore and you know regular health checks are important. So you go to your GP. During the appointment they measure your waist. ...
A new poem by Evangeline Riddiford Graham. Mitochondrial Problem I. It was long drive to Kansas for the man and his dog but you have to understand he said She doesn’t fly. Which calls to mind not carsick shitting barking or whining but a dog who chooses not to as ...
The only published and available best-selling indie book chart in New Zealand is the top 10 sales list recorded every week at Unity Books’ stores in High St, Auckland, and Willis St, Wellington.AUCKLAND1 Hemingway’s Goblet by Dermot Ross (Mary Egan Publishing, $38)Hot off the press, this debut ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Laura Wajnryb McDonald, PhD candidate in Criminology, University of Sydney Less than 24 hours after Ashlee Good was murdered in Bondi Junction, her family released a statement requesting the media take down photographs they had reproduced of Ashlee and her family without ...
Chief executive Shaun Robinson said it has not had any government funding cut, but government-funded contracts have not kept pace with rising costs. ...
The Ministry of Health has delayed the release of its evidence brief on the safety, reversibility and mental health and wellbeing outcomes for puberty blockers. While we wait, Julia de Bres speaks to those with firsthand experience. Best practice gender-affirming healthcare is based on trans people’s self-determination and agency. The ...
Barcelona’s city streets have gone from traffic-clogged to pedestrian-friendly. How? Superblocks. Ellen Rykers explains. This is an excerpt from our weekly environmental newsletter Future Proof. Sign up here. Last week I read a great interview with renowned urbanist Janette Sadik-Khan by The Spinoff’s Wellington editor Joel MacManus: “You can reimagine streets, ...
Student groups ‘Climate Action VUW’, Schools Strike 4 Climate and VUWSA will be on the street in Wellington today, the last day for submissions on the Fast-track Approvals Bill, with a message that the fight against the Government’s ‘War on ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sofia Ammassari, Research Fellow, Griffith University Since 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity has grown exponentially – and so has the formidable organisational machine of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). These two factors will be key to delivering the BJP a ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendon Hyndman, Associate Professor of Education (Adjunct) & Senior Manager (BCE), Charles Sturt University During COVID almost all Australian students and their families experienced online learning. But while schools have long since gone back to in-person teaching, online learning has not gone ...
Yes, they’re better for the environment. No, that’s not a good enough reason for me to use them. Once every 26 days or so, my period arrives, and if struck by an act of God, I am caught red-crotched without products. How, after 17 years of this, do I still ...
“It will cause significant harm to our environment and communities. It is completely at odds with New Zealanders’ relationship with nature and our need for a low-carbon, sustainable economic future." ...
The Chair of the National Maori Authority, Matthew Tukaki, has warned a Parliamentary Select Committee that fast-tracking legislation is a perilous practice that undermines the core tenets of democracy, transparency, and accountability. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim Tenbensel, Associate Professor, Health Policy, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images Since coming into power, the coalition government has adopted a simple but shrewd see-how-fast-we-can-move political strategy. However, in the health sector this need for speed entails ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anastasia Hronis, Clinical Psychologist, University of Technology Sydney Darya Sannikova/Pexels Whether you’re watching TV, attending a footy game, or eating a meal at your local pub, gambling is hard to escape. Although the rise of gambling is not unique to Australia, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Wong, Forrest Fellow, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia Have you ever wondered if there are more insects out at night than during the day? We set out to answer this question by combing through the scientific ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carol T Kulik, Research Professor, University of South Australia IR Stone/Shutterstock In Australia, it’s not the done thing to know – let alone ask – what our colleagues are paid. Yet, it’s easy to see how pay transparency can make pay ...
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is sounding a warning to migrants, that running foul of the law may see them leaving the country prematurely. ...
The government’s plan to get 50,000 people off jobseeker support by 2030 has had a rocky start, writes Catherine McGregor in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. Beneficiary numbers are up – and so are ...
Raglan Roast is a staple of Wellington coffee culture. But with five branches across the capital, which one is the best? I am a die-hard Raglan Roast fan. It’s consistently the most affordable cafe in Wellington, and one of the only places you can get a coffee after 3pm. So, ...
Residents of University of Auckland halls are being urged to withhold their accommodation fees from May 1, in a bid to force the university to take student concerns over rent hikes seriously.The University of Auckland is facing a strike from students over the cost of on-campus accommodation. The Students ...
New Zealand and the Philippines have signed a new maritime security agreement and stated their concerns over activity in the South China Sea, as Chinese vessels continue to flout international law. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Philippines President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos committed to signing a Mutual Logistics Supporting Arrangement by ...
The thousands of government “back-office” job cuts are causing widespread pain in the capital city. In today’s episode of The Detail, we speak to three journalists and a think tank researcher, looking at the larger picture around the cuts and what effect it will have on Wellington, a city that’s ...
Opinion: The famed American architect and urban designer Daniel Burnham once said, “Make no little plans. They have no magic to stir men’s blood!” Burnham wouldn’t have been referring to the transport plans in Aotearoa New Zealand over the past five years; projects so big they hadn’t the credibility to ...
Loading…(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){var ql=document.querySelectorAll('A[quiz],DIV[quiz],A[data-quiz],DIV[data-quiz]'); if(ql){if(ql.length){for(var k=0;k<ql.length;k++){ql[k].id='quiz-embed-'+k;ql[k].href="javascript:var i=document.getElementById('quiz-embed-"+k+"');try{qz.startQuiz(i)}catch(e){i.start=1;i.style.cursor='wait';i.style.opacity='0.5'};void(0);"}}};i['QP']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)})(window,document,'script','https://take.quiz-maker.com/3012/CDN/quiz-embed-v1.js','qp'); Got a good quiz question?Send Newsroom your questions. The post Newsroom daily quiz, Friday 19 April appeared first on Newsroom. ...
Opinion: With maths understanding at 42 percent for Year 8 students, there’s no doubt something has to be done. But how? The post Financial literacy should be on all of us appeared first on Newsroom. ...
Hineaupounamu ‘Missy’ Nuku has been scaling mountains in Canada for her college basketball team, the Lakeland Rustlers. Alberta is currently home for the 20-year-old point guard, who is in her first year of a scholarship at Lakeland College, where she is studying for a business degree. She has certainly made ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra When ASIO boss Mike Burgess delivered his annual threat assessment earlier this year, he stressed the rising danger posed by espionage and foreign interference. “In 2024, threats to our way of life have surpassed ...
The Tribunal had called on Minister for Children Karen Chhour to provide evidence at an urgent inquiry into the repeal of Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By T.J. Thomson, Senior Lecturer in Visual Communication & Digital Media, RMIT University Midjourney image by T.J. Thomson As more than half of Australian office workers report using generative artificial intelligence (AI) for work, we’re starting to see this technology affect every ...
What can be done about the closure of the Cadbury factory in Dunedin?
Are we really going to allow around 350 skilled staff and a iconic production plant go to waste?
It’s been reported that globally, the Dunedin factory is one of the best-performing operations in the Mondelez family.
Cadbury/Mondelez acknowledge workers at the plant are among the best performing and if it weren’t for their commitment, dedication and outstanding performance, the factory might have closed some time ago.
On top of that, Dunedin has a high quality local milk supply and a port with easy access to international markets facilitating exports.
The Dunedin factory has also been reported as being a pretty profitable business.
Figures from 2015 showed the company reported a profit of $9 million.
Therefore, there is a potential opportunity here.
Interest from Whittaker’s has been sought, but unfortunately Whittaker’s ruled out any interest in buying Cadbury’s Dunedin factory.
However, at this stage, there’s still hope (from the consultation process) the proposal to close the plant will be dropped.
Otago-Southland Employers Association is strongly advocating for Cadbury/Mondelez to retain the factory in Dunedin.
Meanwhile, Otago Chamber of Commerce chief executive Dougal McGowan wasted no time (in an already-scheduled meeting with Central Otago Mayor) trying to find jobs for the Cadbury workers. Pledging the total support of the Chamber to any task-force established to find a way of supporting the workers.
Critical of the statements put out by politicians immediately after the Cadbury/Mondelez announcement, Mr McGowan said it was important MPs got involved in discussions about the future of the plant’s employees.
Failing Cadbury/Mondelez dropping the proposal, can the plant and jobs be saved?
Well, there are numerous possibilities.
Although Whittaker’s declined to show interest, there still could be other local confectionery producers looking to expand, thus be interested in purchasing the plant.
There could be local private investors seeking an opportunity. Or local investment funds such as NZ Super, ACC etc…
Central Government, Dunedin Council or both could consider investing. Ranging from a full out purchase of the plant down to facilitating a low interest loan to a local interested party.
A public crowd-funding project.
The Union could assist employees to form a cooperative to purchase the plant, perhaps with the assistance of local or central Government.
Offshore interest could be sought.
At the end of the day we have a fully staffed plant with export potential ready to go, therefore, it’s in the country’s best interest to ensure this plant continues to be commercially viable and remains in Dunedin.
PS
There is talk of boycotting Cadbury/Mondelez.
Workers are asking that we don’t.
They don’t want to jeopardise any chance of the company remaining.
The call to not boycott Cadbury sounds silly to me. So if Cadbury managed to magically double sales would there be any more chance of them staying? I doubt it. Trying to mind read and please an ugly profit driven corporate is not a good idea in my opinion.
http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/money/2017/02/cadbury-boycott-will-hurt-employees-union.html
There is nothing stopping you mortgaging your house and putting in an offer if you think it is such a good investment
inspider
Noticed since you started dropping in that you tend to make puerile comments. Nothing to add to the discussion, instead some half-arsed sneer. Why bother I ask? You will get lonely and confused with all these thinking people outdistancing you. Go home Red Riding Hood before you get lost. Mortgage your own house and invest in something, perhaps some up-to-date tertiary education.
Personally, I don’t have the time to commit to such a venture.
Nevertheless, it’s been reported Cadbury workers are gaining a lot of public support. Therefore, it would be interesting to see if the NZ public would be willing to support them by taking a punt and fiscally invest through an online crowd funding scheme.
I put up a comment about Cadbury’s workers and it went down to #15 somehow.
All about co-ops – they are getting a push now especially smaller ones, and could have something to offer Dunedin.
This is the point at which it would be useful to have a government that gave a shit. The factory remains profitable despite the best efforts of Mondelez to make crap chocolate that’s inferior to the competition, so a government that understood its job would make sure it stayed running, whether by putting up money for the workers to take it over as a cooperative, or just making it a publicly-owned asset until there’s a private buyer for it. Too bad we don’t have a government worth the name.
“This is the point at which it would be useful to have a government that gave a shit”
Indeed.
“The factory remains profitable despite the best efforts of Mondelez to make crap chocolate that’s inferior to the competition”
Imagine the potential improving the product would have. Organic may be the way to go?
Would the parent company be willing to franchise the name and leave the local operation here – not owned by them but making Cadbury branded products? You get the feeling that NZ is seen as a trading nuisance.
That way we could have a locally owned co-operative and either fundraise for that – or make some other local financial arrangements.
Makes a lie of the “we need crap wages” doesn’t it. Lots of Aussie made products here despite there much higher wage structure.
Not sure if Cadbury/Mondelez are interested in franchising. But it is something that could be put to them.
They are however considering the potential of continuing to produce their local products (Pineapple Lumps, Jaffas, etc) here. The current plant would be best suited to continue on that production, thus could be a contract a new owner could potentially secure.
There have been alternative lookalike products in the market for years. Check Planet Candy at the warehouse
Why do we need to keep the name?
It’s profitable when run by one of the world’s largest companies, producing products with years of brand marketing behind them and a sophisticated distribution system that gets them to market across NZ, Australia and beyond.
That’s no guarantee it would be successful under a new owner. What does the government know about chocolate marketing that makes it sensible to run it? Maybe we should encourage it to step in and save the tattoo parlour and hairdresser in my neighbourhood that are closing down?
“It’s profitable when run by one of the world’s largest companies…”
Yes, yet they are considering laying off staff and moving production offshore.
While brand marketing and distribution networks are important, a fundamental behind any company is its people (staff). The Dunedin factory is one of the best-performing operations in the Mondelez family.
Of course there is no guarantee it would be successful under a new owner, but having such an outstanding production team already in place reduces the risk, thus improves the odds.
“What does the government know about chocolate marketing that makes it sensible to run it? “
They would secure the skill and expertise required as is generally done.
The local tattoo parlour and hairdresser closing down in your area don’t have such a large impact on the economy, thus are no serious comparison.
Weird. I’m pretty sure that the Chamber of Commerce is one of the main proponents of keeping government out of business.
That would probably be the best option. Set it up as an independent, self-owned* business that’s run by the people who work there.
* Not owned by either the government, shareholders or the workers. It would be a legal entity with the workers listed as its directors. No, I don’t know the law – this is just how I think all businesses should be.
“Weird. I’m pretty sure that the Chamber of Commerce is one of the main proponents of keeping government out of business.”
An indication of the severity perhaps? Apparently they are Dunedin’s 4th largest employer.
The company’s annual expenditure into the local economy will also be a significant loss, impacting a number of local businesses.
Nope. Whenever business feels the pinch they reach out for government handouts real fast. It seems to be a general hypocrisy of the business community.
“Nope. Whenever business feels the pinch they reach out for government handouts real fast. It seems to be a general hypocrisy of the business community.”
Which is what I meant about the severity. Other businesses will be impacted by the plant’s closure.
Yes, they will be impacted but that’s just the free-market in action – just like they’ve been demanding for centuries.
Genuine questions,
Do we know why Cadbury/Mondelez plan to close the plant?
Have they shown any inclination to sell it as a going concern?
A.
“Do we know why Cadbury/Mondelez plan to close the plant?”
Apparently, the vast majority of their product is exported to Australia and they believe they have the capacity to produce their product there, thus cutting shipping costs etc…
As for selling it as a going concern, as far as I’m aware no final decision has been made. They are currently seeking feedback through their consultation process. However, they have stated they recognise the significance of the site, thus are hopeful of finding a buyer that will use it in a way that supports the local community and economy.
It’s sad for Dunedin culturally, and it’s a huge indictment of the company that they’d throw those workers to the wolves for some extra dosh. I’m not sure that saving the company is the way to go, but buying up the plant and supporting the existing workers to run it co-operatively is a great idea.
Having said that chocolate is pretty dirty business. Not sure it would be possible to run a large chocolate making business in NZ ethically. Maybe.
The TOP education policy is out. As an ex teacher I think it is the best policy on offer.
Why?
Why? Because it is child/teacher focussed and does away with useless on going assessments a la Parata. It brings in free ece and does away with Charter schools.
It promotes egalitarianism and puts more into producing better (and trusted) teachers – you know ,the ones who know what the children need.
Nothing on Tertiary as such, they say ece has a better return on investment, and that Tertiary needs an overhaul first.
Nothing on TOP’s website!?
The phoney war is nearly over.
“The odds of an early collapse of EU-UK Brexit negotiations are shortening by the day. And that’s before talks have started. Usually circumspect analysts have concluded that Theresa May is likely to flounce out in a huff. Prime candidate for the catalyst that spurs an almighty row is a bill for €60 billion that Brussels is reported to be drawing up: the amount that Britain owes for pension liabilities and budgeted spending commitments.”
http://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/chris-johns-it-won-t-be-pretty-when-the-brexit-wheels-come-off-1.2979264
She actually has control over the negotiations. She signalled this at the outset, when she said no deal would be better than a bad deal.
At the end of two years the UK can simply leave with no further liabilities, and just revert to the WTO rules. It is after all the basis that New Zealand, the US, Japan and in fact most of the world trades with the EU.
The EU will eventually work out they do not hold the strong cards, especially when a US/UK FTA is in the offing.
You know, the whole point of the WTO and GATT before it was so that there weren’t, and wasn’t any need for, bilateral trade agreements.
Modern bilateral trade agreements are indicative of the failure of the WTO and the WTO was set up because of the previous failure of bilateral trade agreements.
Why do we keep repeating the same mistakes when we know that they don’t work?
Obviously FTA’ are better than GATT/WTO, but the reality is that a huge amount of trade still occurs under GATT/WTO.
For instance all of NZ’s trade with the US occurs under GATT/WTO.
So while it would be better if there was some form of FTA between the UK and the EU, the UK will still be able to trade with the EU under GATT/WTO, especially in industrial goods. Most of these have very low tariffs under the GATT rules, often zero.
The negotiating edge that May has is that she has a US/UK FTA in the wings. This could easily be extended to Australia, Canada and NZ (Singapore as well). This is the same size market as the EU.
The EU may well decide it needs some form of FTA with the UK to hold onto markets – all those German cars! It will need to be a deal that the UK sees as fair.
That’s an article of faith, not reality.
They don’t work because they lock countries into deals that are actually bad for them. Force them into doing trade that they don’t want to do.
So, again: Why do we keep repeating the same mistakes when we know that they don’t work?
Free trade in industrial goods has been one of the greatest engines of growth since WW2. For the opposite result try out the Smoot Hawley Act. It helped deepen the 1930’s recession.
But hey thats your view, you are welcome to it.
the Smoot Hawley Act was an accelerator for the british innovation era eg
stereophonic sound ,television.radar, computers,jet engines,
Globally it was the golden age for physics and innovation,and as Rutherford said as we have little or no money we will have to think.
Where did I say anything against free-trade?
I was asking why we keep doing stupid things like the WTO and bilateral trade agreements when they obviously don’t work.
A Brief History of International Trade Agreements
Far better for each individual nation to set standards as to where they will trade and where they won’t. Standards that ensure that each cost is properly accounted for and principles maintained.
None of this forced trade that we see from the WTO. No more nations saying that they will stop trade with us if we demand an inquiry as to why their goods aren’t up to the standards that they were advertised as.
Remove the bloody threats that the present system forces upon us.
Give us Fair trade , not Free trade.
Yep CER is a disaster.
Same for Hong Kong.
Don’t mention ASEAN. What’s it ever done for us.
South Korea. Disaster, a real dog.
Thailand? Worse than a phone call with the Australian PM.
P4… Just as useless as udders on a cow.
As for Malaysia it just means more hijabs and students.
And don’t mention China. It’s not worth the $20 billion.
Yes, We need to stop repeating these errors
Consider this:
For the last several years we’ve had a trade deficit with China. Despite this the NZ$ is still worth more on the forex than the Chinese yuan. Why is this?
The NZ$ should be dropping against the yuan but it isn’t. This is because China keeps decreasing the value of the yuan every time that the global economy goes into recession and their exports start to decrease. Such actions used to be called marcantalism and beggar thy neighbour economics.
So, yes, we have an FTA with China – we don’t have free-trade.
The EU is a lot more than a Bilateral Trade Agreement.
It’s existance arose from a political desire to bring European countries together and to stop the incessat wars. That has been a success.
The EU has Four Fredoms at the heart of its constitution.
Freedom of Movememt of Workers
Freedom of Movement of goods and services
Freedom of Capital
Freedom to establish and provide services.
May and her light-weight team want to ignore the EU as a holistic entity. That is at the heart of their failure.
And if they had left it at the four freedoms, Britain would probably have voted to stay in. Instead the eurocrats tried to build a supra state.
Not too much of a stretch for CER to expand to common external tariffs.
And their application of those four things brought about the collapse of the EU and probably more wars as well.
That really is how bad its failed.
Greece wasn’t given freedom of capital. It should have defaulted but the rest of Europe insisted that they pay the debts that they couldn’t.
And that is just another reason why each nation should have its own currency.
Looks like there will be an annoucement today from Maori and Mana Parties.
They look set to make an ‘agreement’
What are you doing Hone? I’m not sure that Maori/Mana voters will be happy about it.
Cinny, this deal has been in the wind for a long time and is the only sensible way for them to go, otherwise they could well be wiped out (as Labour wants) .I would like to see Hone in parliament again… he speaks truth to power better than anyone else in that cosy little den of neolibs.
I really like Hone, have admired him for a long time. But I’m a bit disappointed.
Just like you I would love to see him in Parliament again, for the same reasons “he speaks truth to power better than anyone else in that cosy little den of neolibs.”
However I just don’t trust the Maori Party after cuddling up with the Nat’s for so long.
Mind you, it is the year of great change, so anything could happen. Maori Party may not cuddle up to National ever again.
Hone will NEVER go with the Nats so it may well create a one seat overhang in favour of the Labour-Green bloc which would be excellent..
It’s sure going to be interesting, but I really feel that Kelvin is the better MP.
The voters no doubt have experienced both of them as MP’s so they will know for sure what’s best for them.
hi cinny,
it just got a little less straight forward/business as usual; the greens are standing a candidate in ttt.
part of the mou?
Choice is good. MMP for the win, voters will decide. Greens looking for the Party vote in TTT, awesome, educate the people.
If I were to vote in that electorate, I’d vote for Kelvin, best person for the job. Will be an exciting election this year, that’s for sure.
interesting, my take, with mmp in mind, would be to vote for hone, then party vote green or labour.
get two good mps representing the area.
reasoning that kelvin gets in on the list.
That makes sense, but to add more to the daydream, cause am liking the idea of both of them in house.
Labour takes out the rest of the Maori seats, Maori party doesn’t reach the threshold and bye to them.
There’s some unusual political comment at the Herald of late (yesterday’s comments on the poll, for instance), and this is an example of this – I don’t think it’s a valid assumption to assume that most of Te Hira Paenga’s votes would go to Hone Harawira, for instance.
(It’s also probably not a good idea to assume that most of Annette Sykes’ votes would go to Te Ururoa Flavell either)
Oh good, an actual leftie on today’s RNZ “from the left and right” spot this morning at 11.05am-ish.
Sue Bradford tweeted:
I can’t remember when I last listened to that slot. I’ll try to listen to it today.
Thanks will have to tune in for that.
@ Carolyn
That is unfair. Stephen Mills has been excellent in the slot.
Who we don’t need there is Mr. Iagreewithmathew.
Ah private prisons – stupid idea, just more information why. Also enjoyable to watch.
http://www.trutv.com/shows/adam-ruins-everything/videos/the-shocking-way-private-prisons-make-money.html
Headline is:
Stoned driver crashed into woman at 200km/h in New South Wales
Actual information is:
We don’t know if he was stoned or not when the crash happened but we do know that he has mental health issues.
Talk about misreporting.
Interestingly enough, it was this type of misreporting that launched the War on Drugs. Of course, back then they would have gone heavy on the racism as well.
Did a stoned driver crash a into woman at 200km/h in New South Wales?
In the Trump age we like to tell it like it is.
Bearded white male crashes into a woman at 200km/h.
Blue-eyed blond crashes into a woman at 200km/h,
P-Plater crashes into a woman at 200km/h,
Skateboarding hitchhiker crashes into a women at 200km/h,
Man with undiagnosed schizophrenia was thought to be having a psychotic episode when he crashed into a woman at 200km/h.
All of these statements are true. But the last reports the most pertinent information to give an indication of that particular situation.
As any child knows, selective reporting of true facts often can give a false impression of what the whole truth is.
And what condition was the woman in after all that? A very glaring example of lack of empathy for one another, and concentration on correct reporting of cause. The victim is a woman, end of interest.
How quickly the msm divert their attention away from Flynn, Trump and his aides lying about their communications with Moscow ….. towards a stupid story about Sweden
Bannon is laughing his socks off
Had the poll come out last night with good news for National Kiwiblog would have been instantly in action with big positive headlines and lots of blather.
And now a dweeby post not being clear and upfront about yesterdays results!
This is interesting, seems kiwis don’t like the idea of one corporate media outlet controlling all the news.
https://www.horizonpoll.co.nz/page/451/disbelief-d
WTF? This is obscene.
“New Zealand’s highest-paid public servant received a 36 per cent pay increase against the objections of Prime Minister Bill English and the State Services Commission (SSC).
Documents obtained under the Official Information Act show NZ Super Fund chief executive Adrian Orr received the pay rise last year on the back of a 22 per cent salary hike only two years earlier, with his annual pay packet now over $1 million.”
Well it turns out that English has some explaining to do, can he not control his minions?
“Board members are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Minister of Finance. The Minister’s recommendation follows nominations from a committee, independent of the Guardians, which is established by the Minister.”
Why I say that we need to put a cap on the pay of public servants. It’s not in our best interests to make them rich while they make us poor.
Horizon poll comments on merger proposed for media makes interesting reading.
Kim Dotcom will be on with J Campbell in a minute, re a ruling that there is no Copyright Law to justify the original arrest or the original charges.
But is liable for fraud deportation. Kim reckons it is a major win for him.
Tell him: “he’s dreaming!”
To update that Kiwiblog does now cover the latest poll. In a most pointedly down in the mouth, downmarket way.
Had things been positive there would have been orgasmic splurges last night followed by the metaphorical, cigarette today, with cooly blown smoke rings. Regardless of remarks directed at my reaction, I like displays of childish petulance by the spited.
Kiwiblog has been doing less in the way of commentary on polls since Late Last year. this is no different. Maybe he felt he was giving away his income as a pollster.
co ops might be the idea.
https://nz.coop/
Starting a Co-op
Looking to build an enterprise that’s freely established by a group that provides mutual benefits? Here, NZ Co-op can show you how to start a Co-op and how to benefit from the activities of the enterprise, not just from primarily investments.
Since taking on the CEO role at Cooperative Business NZ in April 2016, Craig Presland has received many requests for assistance with setting up new co-operatives. With this in mind, Craig has produced a User Guide for all those considering whether to set up, or otherwise to join, a co-operative. In this document we answer the following questions:
Start Up User Guide for new co-ops, mutuals and societies
How do we progress from a group of individuals with an idea, to forming and registering a company, to drafting a constitution and business plan, to holding our first general meeting, to holding our first AGM 12 months later?
What is a co-operative and how does this vary from standard companies (publicly and privately owned), mutual companies, incorporated societies, building societies, industrial and provident societies, credit unions etc.
What is the history of co-operatives in NZ, and globally, and what other NZ co-operatives are there?
Is the co-operative business model the right one for us?
Which type of co-operative is best for us?
How do we set up a co-operative including best practice governance?
Is our idea business-worthy?
This Start-Up User Guide provides a good level of information relevant also to established co-operatives.
Let’s Get Started Manual 2017
https://nz.coop/start-user-guide-new-co-operatives/
An informative link. Thanks for posting.
I feel so sorry for the poor downtrodden predominantly white trash “Deplorables”. Now they gotta deal with the fact they gave their all to a crazy man.
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=11804361