Open mike 23/11/2015

Written By: - Date published: 6:00 am, November 23rd, 2015 - 60 comments
Categories: open mike - Tags:

openmikeOpen mike is your post.

For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy).

Step up to the mike …

60 comments on “Open mike 23/11/2015 ”

  1. Atiawa 1

    Why would Goff stand for the Auckland mayoralty as an independent candidate considering his life-long commitment to the Labour Party?

    • tc 1.1

      Possibly tactical given the dirty politics that will continue to be played.

      goffs experience with that aspect of nationals campaigning during the 2011 election will serve him well, all the best phil.

      • Atiawa 1.1.1

        Tactical! How would that be considering his holding cabinet positions along with leadership of NZ’s oldest political party?
        Are you suggesting he wants to distance himself from his past? Or does Labour want to distance itself from Goff’s past?

        • te reo putake 1.1.1.1

          Generally speaking, the major political parties don’t stand candidates under the party name in local government elections. National have C&R in Ak and Labour have endorsed various coalitions and independents over the years.

          • Lanthanide 1.1.1.1.1

            I believe that’s changing though, particularly with recent news that National are starting to organise in Auckland for council seats etc.

          • Ad 1.1.1.1.2

            That seriously needs to change.

            In the Whau Ward last election, the incumbent piece of Tory sludge was beaten by Ross Clow.

            Ross proudly stood under a Labour brand. That meant he could call on all the ground troops from New Lynn, Mt Roskill, and Kelston to get those voting papers in.

            In the final week that papers were due, they went door to door. They got those papers to the libraries.

            Ross Clow won by around 100 votes.

            Labour works. Team Labour wins local elections.

    • Tracey 1.2

      Cos he isnt really a Left wing politician… and this way the right and left voters can both think he is neutral…

      I for one think it is more honezt than he has been for years. Now if he would just resign from parliament too.

  2. Tory 2

    Oh dear, another bad nights sleep for the left after so much expectation……..
    http://www.3news.co.nz/nznews/national-still-ahead-in-polls-despite-rapist-remarks-2015112217#axzz3sFF10RuJ

    • b waghorn 2.1

      Have you ever built a dam of sand and watched it , first I drip ,then a trickle, then the front collapses in a flash.

    • mickysavage 2.2

      Why? Polling would have been conducted over 10 days or so and if historical patterns were followed would have finished last Wednesday. Few of the people polled would have seen Key’s appalling behaviour. Given other recent events the poll results ought to have National very afraid.

      • Sabine 2.2.1

        it does not matter at all this poll, like the last one does not matter
        But interestingly enough, the last Poll had the National Party down, and this Poll has the Leader of the National Party down.
        By the time the next poll arrives, and I am sure of this, John Key will have found another group to insult and malign, as he can’t help himself. He seems to me to be a very unpleasant fellow and seems to get more and more unpleasant by the day. Higher Office does not suit him.

        In the meantime, drip drip drip…..and the buckets gets fuller by the day. Its gonna be a fun time till 2017.

        • Chooky 2.2.1.1

          +100…polls are not worth worrying about at this stage ….and they are deeply sus

        • Puckish Rogue 2.2.1.2

          Its gonna be a fun time till 2017. I think you’ll find it’ll be 2020 🙂

          • Sabine 2.2.1.2.1

            first we do 2017 and then 2020. Never celebrate before you have won PR, you might find humblepie not to your liking.
            So why not just lean back and enjoy the spectacle 🙂 after all its just our country that is done over, so really no hard feelings ey 🙂

    • galeandra 2.3

      Oh dear, schadenfreude.
      Except Tory won’t join us here for the celebration when NZ finishes turning on the worm he so admires.

    • DoublePlusGood 2.4

      A bad night’s sleep for the country – as long as people like you are willing to wreck it.

    • Tracey 2.5

      Given your adherence to polls, when will you call for National to not ratify the TPP given only 35% want it?

      • Srylands 2.5.1

        Tracey most people are not competent to have a view on the merits of the TPP. Of course New Zealand will ratify it. There is alternative. You are deluded for thinking otherwise.

        • Draco T Bastard 2.5.1.1

          Actually, I’m pretty sure that most people are and the people who say that most people aren’t are the people who aren’t competent enough to have a say.

        • savenz 2.5.1.2

          The Natz are the least competent managers ever! 7 budget deficits in a row, 11 million is Saudi bribes and the million dollar Sky City convention centre corporate welfare, the list is so extensive of incompetence so long, I can not be bothered repeating…

  3. Jenny Kirk 3

    Yes – from a high of mid-40s, ShonKey’s rating has been dripping downwards …. and its not anything much that Labour is doing – plodding along quietly and gaining traction – but its ShonKey’s own behaviour . Maybe people are finally waking up to his sycophantic fawning and getting tired of it.

    • Sabine 3.1

      In the last few days i have heard of two people being diagnosed with cancer. One is early stage and with a mastectomy there is a chance of survival the other one is a stage 4 terminal cancer. I am sure all their families will appreciate to know that their loved ones are still expected to find a job in order to get a ‘benefit’, lest they abuse the system.

      It is these little tweaks to the welfare state that went under the radar and seem to be bubbling up now. People having to raise funds for cancer treatment, as there is no guarantee anymore here in NZ that a. they will get timely help with waiting lists and the like, and b. that they will be allowed to die in dignity without have to eat humble pie every four weeks in front of a dis-interested WINZ drone. Eventually all the cuts to services and welfare benefits will come home to people that previously would have never thought that they might be in need of these services and/or benefits.

      Drip drip drip. And then the bucket is full.

      • Smilin 3.1.1

        Yeah it like watching another McDonalds go up at about 1.5 mil and you think of where that money could have gone to alleviate the suffering caused by all the crap in their low grade plastic food
        The immorality of it really is beyond redemption

    • Tracey 3.2

      and perhaps the media are getting bored and want a new game?

      • Sabine 3.2.1

        nope, the bubble heads that are the media know that their pay cheque depends on them not being too interested in anything but to be good stenographers.

        I really believe that a lot of the cuts that were supposed to only hit the un-deserving ‘welfare blugers’ are now hitting those that consider themselves to be deserving of welfare.
        I.e. the terminally ill that have to go to their doctors and prove they are still dying.
        the ‘Solo’ Parents that have lost their partners in mine accidents, road accidents, and to illness to just name a few and that are now learning that there is no widowers benefit anymore, and they too need to get a job – somewhere – so they can pay for child care and maybe get a benefit, bugger the welfare of the children.
        The ones that need knee surgery but can’t get it because of our underfunded Health system, and that eventually get bumped of the waiting list altogether.
        The ones that have to watch their children trying to find jobs and houses elsewhere because they can’t afford houses in AKL and certain other places in NZ. They are no waking up because the kids moving away means they are not only loosing out on the kids, but also the grand children. Suddenly the ‘if they can;t afford it they can just move away’ is not that sexy anymore.

        I have been hearing a lot of that lately. What goes around comes around. And it is now hitting the nicer suburbs, and it is hitting those that have jobs and pay taxes. And it hits and hurts them just as much.

  4. vto 4

    The USA really is an extremist state heading rapidly towards full blown fascism along the lines of 1930’s Germany.

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/americas/74291560/us-presidential-hopeful-trump-would-absolutely-bring-back-waterboarding

    Ignore at your peril

    Like so many in Europe and the UK did in the 1930s.

    Eh.

    Not really happening is it.

    Like it wasn’t happening in 1930s Germany. Nup

  5. Penny Bright 5

    Beware the ‘weasel words’?

    Where does current Labour Party MP – ‘Independent’ 2016 Auckland Mayoral candidate Phil Goff stand on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) – particularly for water services?

    Penny Bright

    Genuinely and fiercely INDEPENDENT 2016 Auckland Mayoral candidate.

  6. joe90 6

    Cynical fuck says terror attacks a positive development.

    AdamWeinstein

    This Rubio gaffe is not a gaffe, but the consequence of habitually treating terrorism & natsec as spectator sports. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92YInDPydnk&feature=youtu.be&app=desktop

    https://twitter.com/AdamWeinstein/status/668503088131608576

  7. Morrissey 7

    “He’s just very very upset with what’s going on at the moment.”
    The Pope’s highly selective, therefore propagandist, expression of Christmas gloom

    Morning Report, RNZ National, Monday 23 November, 8:45 a.m.

    There have been terrible atrocities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa recently. Apparently they make Pope Francis “very very upset”. Oddly, however, when he recently sermonized about the atrocities that make him “very very upset”, he offered as examples the killings in Paris, Lebanon and Mali. He apparently forgot to mention the sustained bombing of Kunduz Hospital, the daily terror inflicted on the people in the Occupied Territories of the West Bank and Gaza, and the massive, illegal, flagrant programme of drone killings carried out in Yemen and Afghanistan.

    However, when you consider the insalubrious company he’s been keeping recently [1] and recall his highly questionable behaviour during the Argentine dictatorship [2] perhaps it should come as no surprise that His Holiness has chosen to speak so selectively. …..

    SUSIE FERGUSON: With Christmas little more than a month away, the Pope has sounded a gloomy note, describing this year’s Christmas celebrations as “empty”. Even as the Christmas tree was being erected at the Vatican, the Pope said lights, parties and nativity scenes of the season were a charade, with so much war and hate. With us now is our Rome correspondent Sabina Castelfranco. Hi there Sabina.

    SABINA CASTELFRANCO: Hello there. He’s called it a “charade” during a sermon this week in which he reflected on the recent atrocities in the world. Uh, what happened in Paris, what happened in, uh, Lebanon, what happened in, ahh, in Mali, he’s just very very upset with what’s going on at the moment.

    SUSIE FERGUSON: So some of these, ahhh, some of these comments that he actually made, uh, seeming very very downbeat. Is that in itself a surprise?

    SABINA CASTELFRANCO: You know what, it isn’t a real surprise. I think this is a Pope that’s very frank about how he feels, and he’s really saying, y’know, this is not going to be a Christmas of lights, and a Christmas of enjoyment and a Christmas of entertainment. You know, he said we should ask for the grace to weep for this world, uh, which doesn’t recognise the path to peace. Umm, he said God is weeping and Jesus is weeping and he said this at his morning mass at Santa Marta which is the mass he holds every morning inside the Vatican, so he’s very concerned about the situation and he thinks that this is not going to be a Christmas like other Christmases, basically.

    SUSIE FERGUSON: Now as for how these comments then have been received, what are people saying?

    SABINA CASTELFRANCO: Well I think people in St Peter’s Square are saying that they’re seeing a lot of security and they’re feeling comforted by the security, ummm, y’know, there’s two thousand extra policemen on the road, extra security guards, including army, in Rome. So people are feeling comforted about this but, y’know, something can happen any time, I mean this is a very difficult time in Rome, at the Vatican, and I think people just don’t know what’s gonna happen but want to try and lead their lives as if nothing were different.

    SUSIE FERGUSON: Thank you very much for your time, Sabina Castelfranco, joining us from Rome.

    http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/morningreport/audio/201779831/pope-denounces-christmas-charade

    [1] http://media2.s-nbcnews.com/j/newscms/2015_39/1233356/150922-pope-arrival-412p_a63f3a713caad910ccb8667fbd1d5122.nbcnews-ux-2880-1000.jpg

    [2] http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/mar/14/pope-francis-argentina-military-junta

    • Ad 7.1

      Morrissey what is your point?
      The Pope isn’t gloomy enough?
      Should recite a more complete list of atrocities in the world?
      Or you want him to lighten up and down the egg nog?
      What would you like?

      • Morrissey 7.1.1

        1.) Morrissey what is your point?

        You know perfectly well what my point is, Ad.

        2.) The Pope isn’t gloomy enough?

        My problem is with his highly political choice of atrocities.

        3.) Should recite a more complete list of atrocities in the world?

        Yes. His Holiness focused on a select few, ignoring the far more numerous atrocities inflicted by, funded by, and diplomatically supported by, the United States and the United Kingdom.

        4.) Or you want him to lighten up and down the egg nog?
        What would you like?

        I’d like a Pope who spoke forthrightly and honestly, and didn’t tailor his message in order to avoid political condemnation by the right wing media attack machine.

        • Lanthanide 7.1.1.1

          1.) Morrissey what is your point?

          You know perfectly well what my point is, Ad.

          IMO Morrissey should receive a moderation warning for this. This silly style of ‘cat and mouse’ refusing to answer simple straight forward questions only leads to flaming.

        • Pat 7.1.1.2

          and his target audience was?

    • pwmcm 7.2

      Perhaps it might be worth going back to a more detailed report of what the pope said. It seems to me that he was doing more than condemning “useless slaughters.”

      To quote the man himself: “What shall remain? Ruins, thousands of children without education, so many innocent victims: and lots of money in the pockets of arms dealers. Jesus once said: ‘You can not serve two masters: either God or riches.’ War is the right choice for him, who would serve wealth: ‘Let us build weapons, so that the economy will right itself somewhat, and let us go forward in pursuit of our interests. There is an ugly word the Lord spoke: ‘Cursed!’ Because He said: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers!.’ The men who work war, who make war, are cursed, they are criminals. A war can be justified – so to speak – with many, many reasons, but when all the world as it is today, at war – piecemeal though that war may be – a little here, a little there, and everywhere – there is no justification – and God weeps. Jesus weeps.”
      http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-the-lord-weeps-for-the-sins-of-a-worl

      As for Palestine… sometimes pictures say more than words…..
      https://images.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fshalomrav.files.wordpress.com%2F2014%2F05%2F2014-05-25t114931z_505521652_gf2ea5p0w.jpg&f=1

      • Morrissey 7.2.1

        You’ve made some very good points, my friend. I am probably being overly harsh in my judgement of the Pope. No matter what he says, his words are going to be either ignored or distorted by the de facto government media in the United States. The same thing happened to Nelson Mandela and Malala Yousafzai,

  8. Draco T Bastard 8

    Lessons from HBOS: why we need new types of banks

    These ‘stakeholder banks’ are owned by the members (cooperatives) or held in public trust (savings banks). They aim to support their customers and the regions where they lend rather than deliver double digit returns to their shareholders.

    Academic research shows that stakeholder banks maintained their lending during the 2007-08 crisis in contrast to shareholder banks. It was the shift towards meeting the needs of shareholders over stakeholders that led banks into increasingly risky activities such as mortgage securitisation.

    Shareholders = bludgers

    And these bludgers are destroying our economy and our world so as to get unearned income.

    • Chooky 8.1

      +100 Draco…and get rid of those Aussie Banks fleecing New Zealand and taking the profits out of New Zealand

      KiwiBank gives far better deals as do other NZ Banks….why anyone would bank with an OZ bank is beyond me

      http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/money/73626116/qa-are-australian-banks-really-rorting-new-zealanders

      http://m.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10687194

      http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10571272

    • Sabine 8.2

      well maybe we need a second ‘illegal’ banking system like China has one?

      http://www.wsj.com/articles/china-police-reveal-busted-illegal-banking-operation-1448030259

      Quote: BEIJING—Chinese police announced a crackdown on an illegal foreign-exchange network that it said handled up to $64 billion in transactions.

      According to a report by police in Jinhua, a city of five million people in eastern Zhejiang province, the network involved hundreds of people in eight separate “gangs” working out of more than two dozen “criminal dens.” The operation routed money through hundreds of accounts held at financial institutions in China and Hong Kong to evade restrictions on moving currency outside the country, it said.

      According to recent state media accounts and a detailed police report released Friday, police launched its crackdown on the network on Dec. 15, 2014, after months of investigation. It was unclear why the clampdown was only being disclosed now.

      The official People’s Daily newspaper said 69 people had been criminally charged and another 203 people had been given administrative sanctions.

      The amount of money involved, up to 410 billion yuan ($64.25 billion) in cross-border transactions, raised questions among some analysts about China’s supervision of money outflows. “The fact that multiple real banks were involved raises questions about oversight. They’ve just allowed $64 billion to leave the country without knowing,” said Fraser Howie, coauthor of “Red Capitalism: The Fragile Financial Foundation of China’s Extraordinary Rise.”

        • sabine 8.2.1.1

          i have no idea where it goes and i don’t actually care, i just find it hilarious that a totalitarian state like China gets bested by the banks.

          No matter how many they arrest, this will continue, and the speculators regardless of ethnicity will always find a way to park their money, it is up to he other countries of the world to implement rules and regulations to protect their countries.. Alas, our free market tosser is only getting up more rules and regulations for us.

          • Chooky 8.2.1.1.1

            Well quite frankly New Zealand political parties on the Left should care, as should ALL New Zealanders …when there is an acute housing shortage in New Zealand due to scarce New Zealand housing being bought off shore

            …. and there are many New Zealand families going homeless because of this housing shortage

            http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/morningreport/audio/201779986/professor-housing-policy-is-failing-vulnerable-families

            …and yes “it is up to the other countries of the world to implement rules and regulations to protect their countries”

            ….but first we have to RECOGNISE THE PROBLEM and jonkey nactional must be called to account for creating the problem with a smiling face

            …thus far NZF and Labour have tried to do this but the Greens have rejected it as “crude racial profiling” ( buying into Nact framing)

            http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/70186455/Greens-accuse-Labour-of-crude-racial-profiling-on-housing-sales

            • Sabine 8.2.1.1.1.1

              I know all of this. But frankly the problem is not migrants that want to come here and live, for what its worth, the problem is that we have a government that does not want to regulate the flow of migrants into this country, the problem is that we allow people to migrate here on ‘purpose to invest’ but that then actually don’t live here, nor pay taxes, the problem is that we allow people to buy a ‘residence’ permit under rather ‘spurious’ investments schemes.
              The people that want to come and live and work here are not the problem, so pretending it is does not help.

              The main issue that I have with our current housing problem is that our current government is hellbent on selling state houses and / or letting them fall into disrepair to the point where knocking them down is the only option.
              The other issue that i have with our current and previous government is that they rather pay a ‘accommodation subsidy’ to Landlords instead of building new houses, or letting the market ‘regulate itself’.

              Keeping our existing State House Stock in good shape, building new State Houses to keep up with demand and doing away with the ‘Accommodation Benefits for Landlords’ would go a long way in addressing our Housing Issues. Non of these things have anything to do with Migrants.

              But then we can’t have the market regulate itself, that would be to the detriment of a handful of large scale landlord and Kiwi Mom and Pop Landlords, who, while they charge exuberant rent for their ‘investment’ properties, have yet to come to understand that they are pricing their children and grand children out of the market.

    • Chooky 8.3

      @DTB…re banks … On the Keiser Report this is interesting….Max interviews chartered accountant, tax justice campaigner, professor and Jeremy Corbyn’s informal adviser, Richard Murphy

      https://www.rt.com/shows/keiser-report/322973-episode-max-keiser-839/

      In this episode of the Keiser Report, Max Keiser and Stacy Herbert discuss the balance of payments crisis on the horizon as share buybacks trump capital expenditure and the income stream from privatized industries heads overseas.

      In the second half, Max interviews chartered accountant, tax justice campaigner, professor and definitely not Jeremy Corbyn’s paid adviser, Richard Murphy, about a town in Wales going ‘offshore’ as part of a tax campaign to force the government to make multinationals pay their share of taxes.

  9. And … we’re back. Cheers to whoever sorted out the problem!

    • mickysavage 9.1

      All thanks to Rocky!

    • lprent 9.2

      Yeah I was in transit. Lyn was in Amsterdam. Looks like it was a hot day yesterday and the system didn’t like the temperatures in a locked up apartment.

      My time in Hong Kong consisted of running several kilometres to catch the connecting flight after the plane departed Frankfurt late due to de-icing. So I didn’t even get a chance to read my mail let alone the site.

      Thanks rocky….

      Now I need a shower and some clean clothes after nearly 36 hours of flying from Innsbruck and driving up from Italy. I don’t want to sit down. My arse feels like it has been glued to too many seats.

Links to post

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • At a glance – The difference between weather and climate
    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 ...
    3 hours ago
  • More criminal miners
    What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 hours ago
  • Photos from the road
    Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 hours ago
  • RMA reforms aim to ease stock-grazing rules and reduce farmers’ costs – but Taxpayers’ Union w...
    Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough.  Greenpeace says ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    5 hours ago
  • Luxon Strikes Out.
    I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    9 hours ago
  • In many ways the media that the experts wanted, turned out to be the media they have got
    Chris Trotter writes –  Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    9 hours ago
  • The Waitangi Tribunal Summons; or the more things stay the same
    Graeme Edgeler writes –  This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    9 hours ago
  • Both Parliamentary watchdogs hammer Fast-track bill
    Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General, John Ryan, has joined the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    10 hours ago
  • India makes a big bet on electric buses
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah Spengeman People wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
    12 hours ago
  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 6:36am on Tuesday, April 23
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 6:36am on Tuesday, April 22:Scoop & Deep Dive: How Sir Peter Jackson got to have his billion-dollar exit cake and eat Hollywood too NZ Herald-$$$ Matt NippertFast Track Approval Bill: Watchdogs seek substantial curbs on ministers' powers ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    14 hours ago
  • What is really holding up infrastructure
    The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    15 hours ago
  • “Pure Unadulterated Charge”
    Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    16 hours ago
  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks for Monday, April 22
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: writes via his substack that’s he’s sceptical about the IPSOS poll last week suggesting a slide into authoritarianism here, writing: Kiwis seem to want their cake and eat it too Tal Aster writes for about How Israel turned homeowners into YIMBYs. writes via his ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago
  • The media were given a little list and hastened to pick out Fast Track prospects – but the Treaty ...
     Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago
  • Just trying to stay upright
    It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago
  • “Unprecedented”
    Today, former Port of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson went on trial on health and safety charges for the death of one of his workers. The Herald calls the trial "unprecedented". Firstly, it's only "unprecedented" because WorkSafe struck a corrupt and unlawful deal to drop charges against Peter Whittall over Pike ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Time for “Fast-Track Watch”
    Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago
  • Gordon Campbell on fast track powers, media woes and the Tiktok ban
    Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
    1 day ago
  • The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    Bryce Edwards writes-  The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    1 day ago
  • Maori push for parallel government structures
    Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago
  • An announcement about an announcement
    Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago
  • All the Green Tech in China.
    Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    1 day ago
  • Western Express Success
    In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
    2 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 7:16am on Monday, April 22
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 7:16am on Monday, April 22:Labour says Kiwis at greater risk from loan sharks as Govt plans to remove borrowing regulations NZ Herald Jenee TibshraenyHow did the cost of moving two schools blow out to more than $400m?A ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
    2 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago
  • Thank you
    This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Determining the Engine Type in Your Car
    Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
    3 days ago
  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
    3 days ago
  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
    3 days ago
  • Who Makes Mazda Cars?
    Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
    3 days ago
  • How Often to Replace Your Car Battery A Comprehensive Guide
    Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
    3 days ago
  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
    In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the Rule If you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
    3 days ago
  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
    Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
    3 days ago
  • What Are Struts on a Car?
    Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
    3 days ago
  • What Does Car Registration Look Like: A Comprehensive Guide
    Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
    Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
    3 days ago
  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    3 days ago
  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    3 days ago
  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
    In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
    3 days ago
  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
    Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
    3 days ago
  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
    Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
    Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
    3 days ago
  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
    Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
    Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
    3 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
    In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
    3 days ago
  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
    A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
    3 days ago
  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    You talking about me?  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    3 days ago
  • A crisis of ambition
    Roger Partridge  writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
    Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
    Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    4 days ago
  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    4 days ago
  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    4 days ago
  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    4 days ago
  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
    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 ...
    4 days ago
  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
    4 days ago
  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
    4 days ago
  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
    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 ...
    4 days ago
  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
    Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
    4 days ago
  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    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 ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    4 days ago
  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    4 days ago
  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    4 days ago
  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    4 days ago
  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago
  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago
  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 hours ago
  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    10 hours ago
  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    11 hours ago
  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    11 hours ago
  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
    “China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.   Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Government focused on getting people into work
    Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-04-23T08:25:34+00:00