Open mike 23/12/2013

Written By: - Date published: 6:37 am, December 23rd, 2013 - 76 comments
Categories: open mike - Tags:

openmike

Open mike is your post.

For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose.

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

Step right up to the mike …

76 comments on “Open mike 23/12/2013 ”

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  1. phillip ure 1
    23 December 2013 at 7:43 am

    how spook-nervous are you..?

    http://whoar.co.nz/2013/apple-webcam-may-be-spying-on-you-ed-this-seems-a-good-time-to-introduce-to-the-market-the-whoar-spook-stopper-the-most-efficientlow-cost-spook-shield-that-will-protect-you-from-be/

    ..i have a solution for a large part of that ongoing unease/malaise….

    ..i had this utterly brilliant/lightbulb-going-on-in-head idea..

    ..eh.?

    phillip ure..

  2. Rodel 2
    23 December 2013 at 8:30 am

    John Banks on morning report is really looking forward to his day in court next year.
    Yeah-right and my turkey is really looking forward to Christmas.

    • David H 2.1
      23 December 2013 at 8:39 am

      Just like a meal at Milliways.

    • Tim 2.2
      23 December 2013 at 8:41 am

      Exactery. Problem is that while your turkey will end up somewhere around Moa Point, Banks will probably get some cushy little number on a board somewhere.

      • aerobubble 2.2.1
        23 December 2013 at 2:21 pm

        Well that assumes a few things, that boardrooms want over the hill neo-liberals. Or left dotcom high and dry despite Dotcoms money. Does Banks really enhance shareholder value?

        • Tim 2.2.1.1
          23 December 2013 at 2:57 pm

          “Does Banks really enhance shareholder value?”

          true, but then did the Shipleys ever ‘enhance WESTPAC shareholder value’ just for starters. And then of course there’s always SOE’s like Solid Energy to consider

          I’d be picking Banks is likely more toxic than anything sloshing around Moa Point, but then apparently some semi-literate money trader that exists on an out-of-date ideology learned parrot-fashion is fit enough to become a Proim Munsta. Stranger things happen at sea.
          That semi-literate money trader was also once deemed to be “krismetuk’ by our ‘mainstream’ media as well (i.e. them there that profess to be the voice of the people – the incisive, the investigative foreskins of journalsim who challenge a status quo calling themselves the 4th Estate).

          Funny ‘ole world ain’t it!

    • Lanthanide 2.3
      23 December 2013 at 1:38 pm

      Really looking forward to the day in court that he tried his hardest to avoid.

  3. Molly 3
    23 December 2013 at 8:46 am

    The idea that this is providing a “better” education for our Maori and Pasifika students – is flawed.

    Along similar lines to the Aspire Scholarship implemented by Heather Roy.

    Fundamentally, schemes like this subsidise private schools.

    They also stop the discussion about the outcomes that we want. AG provides networking along with academics – and it is the networking in later years that contribute quite a lot to personal career opportunities and wealth. Are the InZone students going to be included in that? I doubt it.

    And shouldn’t we be asking the question about what a successful Maori or Pasifika student is anyway? (For that matter, – we should be asking that for every student).

    Surely, it doesn’t have to be the one and only model of attending a private school and going to university – and often disconnecting from his childhood community and support systems? Where are the tradespeople, teachers, community builders, the sustainable business entrepreneurs, volunteers, the vast army of quiet contributors?

    • Adele 3.1
      23 December 2013 at 10:19 am

      Tēnā koe, Molly

      Ultimately such schemes provide Māori and Tāngata Pasifika with options and choice. Why should rangatahi be deprived of an educational experience that may expand their present worldview. For that matter, why should students that attend such schools because they can, be denied the opportunity of meeting our youth kanohi ki te kanohi.

      I know many people who have benefited enormously from private school education. Think Hato Paora, Hato Petera, St Josephs Māori Girls College. We are not above re-interpreting what private education is about. Charter schools will work for us because we have already set a benchmark in Kohanga Reo.

      Mainstream education is what is failing our Māori youth. Teachers may wax lyrical about their so called professional standards but when it comes to teaching Māori youth – the statistics speak for themselves.
      Please don’t even attempt to blame the majority of the parents. To do so is to simply highlight my point.

      • Molly 3.1.1
        23 December 2013 at 2:13 pm

        Yes, you are right. There will be success stories from this project, and your examples highlight some of the best on offer for Māori students.

        But the InZone project is only for AG – and the premise that it is the best on offer. Efeso Collins wrote much more succinctly on a similar topic a few weeks ago on TDB – Brown Flight

        So – as these projects roll out – I believe that there has to be a discussion alongside it about the other success stories, AND the uplift of outcomes for all students whether they participate or not.

        I went through a period of researching charter schools many years ago, and have come to the conclusion that while they can be a vehicle for some to achieve – as a state funded use of educational money – others, often the most vulnerable, are left behind. And have even less chance of achieving.

        I’m not convinced that these projects have no costs for education as a whole, and the most vulnerable students in our country.

    • Draco T Bastard 3.2
      23 December 2013 at 11:19 am

      Surely, it doesn’t have to be the one and only model of attending a private school and going to university – and often disconnecting from his childhood community and support systems?

      Have you considered that it may be that disconnect that’s producing such extreme results? Being taken out of a negative environment and put in a positive one can, and will, have massive effect upon the kids.

      • Molly 3.2.1
        23 December 2013 at 2:18 pm

        You equate “childhood community and support systems” as a negative.
        Which it may be, but that is not a given.

        It is most likely, that these InZone students have quite a positive family and community support system.

        Otherwise, you are correct: taking someone from a negative environment and putting them into a supportive one will be more likely to produce good results.

        However, there are also downsides for those students – and the disconnect from their communities and families is one that occurs often with scholarship students.

        • Draco T Bastard 3.2.1.1
          23 December 2013 at 2:48 pm

          You equate “childhood community and support systems” as a negative.

          No I don’t. I only put forward the option that may be the cause of them not doing too well at school previously to going to the new system.

          It is most likely, that these InZone students have quite a positive family and community support system.

          May have a positive family environment but who are their friends, who do they play with at school? What are their attitudes? Taking them away from them and putting them in with others who also have a similar positive family environment could be the reason for the change.

          One of the points I’ve made about kids is my belief that just throwing them at school with no social learning from many adults around them results in negative socialisation.

          However, there are also downsides for those students – and the disconnect from their communities and families is one that occurs often with scholarship students.

          Yep, I’m aware of that as well.

  4. burt 4
    23 December 2013 at 8:56 am

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/9546980/Employer-accuses-IRD-of-vendetta

    This guy should declare himself a union – I hear they don’t pay their PAYE and the IRD just turns a blind eye. Good ‘ol NZ eh… Protection for the parasites and punishment for the producers.

  5. David H 5
    23 December 2013 at 9:18 am

    I thought that the Nats were supposed to be regulating Alcohol sales, and yet here’s Pull ya benefit promoting Alcohol.

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=11176800

    And all to get into Upper Harbour on a wave of Chardonnay

  6. johnm 6
    23 December 2013 at 9:46 am

    The U$K continues down the austerity for the poor handouts for the well off neoliberal plug hole. The same ideology Keyshine boy believes is the only way, hence the poverty we have here in NZ.

    Over in the USK it’s draconian here is a man suffering from a heart condition, diabetes and emphysema whose had his disability extra allowance cut to encourage him back to work! He is now dependent on food banks..

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIPnwee7kHY

    ” Access to the necessities of life should be a human right by now, not just another venture for capital gain. Rates of violence, drug abuse, mental problems, and societal stress would all go down if everyone had these vital life essentials. Politicians and business leaders praise our supposed economic freedom, yet ironically most of the world’s effort is wasted on trying to survive. “

    • johnm 6.1
      23 December 2013 at 11:10 am

      And now a Christmas message from the head of the English class system whose offspring Shonkey will welcome to our land next year, HER ROYAL MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH, HEAD OF THE COMMONWEALTH. Although there’s not much of that left, Shonkey continues to flog it off to make his rich class mated richer. 🙁

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b3Hnqy2kIE

  8. Draco T Bastard 8
    23 December 2013 at 1:00 pm

    National’s cutting of the public service inevitably results in it costing more.

    I’d call them numpties but, as it happens every time, it’s probably planned.

    • RedLogix 8.1
      23 December 2013 at 2:47 pm

      Indeed. DtB.

      It’s the kind of intentional theft of public monies that would probably give dear old burt a coronary …

  9. chris73 9
    23 December 2013 at 1:31 pm

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11176844

    Just in case anyone missed it Cameron Brewer declared his trip back in 2011 so I guess now all those that accused him of being as untrustworthy as Len “I will always tell the truth, but always with a limit” Brown will now register their apologies

    • dv 9.1
      23 December 2013 at 2:09 pm

      What is more interesting is he didn’t know he had declared it.

      • chris73 9.1.1
        23 December 2013 at 2:14 pm

        I’ll be interested to see if any posters retract their condemnation of Brewer, such as this:

        http://thestandard.org.nz/ernst-and-young-should-investigate-cameron-brewer/

        • One Anonymous Knucklehead 9.1.1.1
          23 December 2013 at 2:17 pm

          I hadn’t commented before but I will now: he seems like slimy Tory trash to me.

        • phillip ure 9.1.1.2
          23 December 2013 at 2:31 pm

          um..!..hate to burst yer bubble there..chris 73..

          ..but brewer filed notification when he found out the herald story was going to be published..

          ..he filed the day before the story was published..

          ..(and i reckon those spinning the ‘look..!..nothing to see here!’ spin..

          ..do deserve some sort of special bullshitting-award..)

          ..so..just putting the ‘con’ in ‘condemnation’ there..chris 73..eh..?

          phillip ure..

          • RedLogix 9.1.1.2.1
            23 December 2013 at 2:51 pm

            but brewer filed notification when he found out the herald story was going to be published

            Is that on the level philip?

            Because until now I’ve had nothing much to say about Brewer – but if this is accurate that could change real fast.

            • alwyn 9.1.1.2.1.1
              23 December 2013 at 2:56 pm

              This is just Phil out of his head. Brewer notified it back in 2011, when it happened.Don’t let an inconvenient little truth bother you though.

              • Pascal's bookie …
                23 December 2013 at 3:22 pm

                Check the timeline.

                When did he email council, (notifying kind of implies he did it as per spec, which he didn’t) and when did Drinnan publish the snippet about his junket?

                A: Looks like he emailed the council the day before Drinnan published on the 9th. Drinnan rang him on the 8th, the email was sent on the 8th. All a big ol’ coinkydink I’m sure.

                https://twitter.com/Zagzigger

                • chris73 …
                  23 December 2013 at 3:34 pm

                  Lens spin doctors really need to be taking notes on this, this is how you shut a story down

                  • McFlock …
                    23 December 2013 at 3:57 pm

                    Nah, you should keep going with the false moral outrage. As soon as you start admiring deception and talking like it’s a game, you reveal that your previous moral bluster was contrived.

                    • chris73 …
                      23 December 2013 at 4:09 pm

                      Of course its a game otherwise you’d have to deal with the realization that there’s 2/5s of f**k all difference between Labour and National and that since the 80s theres been no real change between the parties at all

                      This means that all the money, time and effort has been for nothing, that there a 2-3 term cycle and that for opposition parties and its workers its pointless doing anything because you won’t win and even if you do win you’ll only ever nibble at the edges of the changes you want to make

                      Lets say Labour/Greens/NZfirst/Mana win the next election nothing much will change because Labour want the treasury benches and won’t give anything other then minor roles to the support parties (except that Winnie will get what he wants) and the reverse is true for National and whoever else they drag in

                    • RedLogix …
                      23 December 2013 at 4:22 pm

                      I guess that’s the difference here c73.

                      Politics is how we decide what kind of society we live in – and the rules that everyone has to abide by. And this affects the real lives of everyone.

                      And I just don’t see other people as disposable pawns in a game. You do.

                    • chris73 …
                      23 December 2013 at 4:32 pm

                      Then you’re more likely to feel more let down and dissapointed with the politicians and parties that we have then me

                    • RedLogix …
                      23 December 2013 at 4:43 pm

                      If you imagine that a hard-shelled cynicism will protect you from the disappointment and hurt of being let down by other people – you are right.

                      But it’ll do nothing on the day your conscience awakens your own sense of shame.

                    • chris73 …
                      23 December 2013 at 4:54 pm

                      I’m ok with my conscience, are you with yours?

                    • RedLogix …
                      23 December 2013 at 5:04 pm

                      The short answer to your question is no.

                      No-one gets to live a full adult life and have no regrets. There are no perfect people – despite our best intentions, we are all ignorant and we all make mistakes that haunt us one way or another. There are things that trouble my conscience.

                      Unfortunately a small group of people with a probable genetic defect called psychopaths have no conscience or sense of shame.

                      You may have just have just self-diagnosed buddy. In fairness to you I hope not.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      23 December 2013 at 5:09 pm

                      Wake up! Wake up! Hmmm. Clearly today is not the day RL is referring to.

                • Mossman …
                  23 December 2013 at 5:38 pm

                  Pascal’s bookie – according to the Herald, Brewer notified the Council on 8 September 2011, not 8 December 2013.

            • phillip ure 9.1.1.2.1.2
              23 December 2013 at 5:38 pm

              @red..i heard it on natrad today..

              ..phillip ure..

              • Anne …
                23 December 2013 at 6:39 pm

                Yep. I heard it too. Commented in response to today’s Herald article:

                Anne 41.1
                23 December 2013 at 8:52 am

                Actually if you listened to Radio NZ’s political correspondent this morning you get a different picture. Essentially, Brewer rang someone and told them about the trip but only after having been advised to… and he still wriggled out of a formal declaration of interest. He also accepted another gift – something to do with Sky City I think – that wasn’t declared. In essence, the journalist was saying he’s dancing on the head of a pin.

                I may have got the wrong end of the stick about Sky City…. haven’t had time to check yet.

    • Draco T Bastard 9.2
      23 December 2013 at 2:56 pm

      I’m still wondering if declaring it in an email, notoriously insecure, without a signed affidavit is actually legally declaring it.

      • chris73 9.2.1
        23 December 2013 at 3:25 pm

        In the court of public opinion its done and dusted, Brewers been exonerated… I’m not saying there isn’t any other things to get him on but this isn’t one of them

        • Te Reo Putake 9.2.1.1
          23 December 2013 at 4:55 pm

          In the court of public opinion …. the damage is already done. It’s too late for Brewer, Chris, he’s just going to remembered as a hypocrite now.

          • chris73 9.2.1.1.1
            23 December 2013 at 5:07 pm

            I disagree but what was more interesting to me was when the herald started the story is was easy to find but trying to find the new story was difficult…

        • Pascal's bookie 9.2.1.2
          23 December 2013 at 5:03 pm

          You polling on this then? Coz his ‘explaining’ came few days after the ‘everyone’s doing it meme, and it’s pretty much xmas now.

        • Morrissey 9.2.1.3
          23 December 2013 at 5:32 pm

          In the court of public opinion its done and dusted, Brewers been exonerated…

          If by “public opinion” you mean a few ACT-supporting dunderheads, which of course includes a couple of extreme right wing radio hosts, then your statement is correct. In the real world, however, your statement makes as much sense as the one posted by poor old “Tracey” a couple of days ago, when she asserted, in apparent high seriousness, that Brewer had “admitted nothing”; what he had done (according to Tracey) was “merely confirmed what others discovered”.

          http://thestandard.org.nz/ernst-and-young-should-investigate-cameron-brewer/#comment-748085

          Many of my family and friends are National supporters or sympathizers, and without exception, every single one of them who has mentioned this topic has condemned Brewer. So even National Party supporters, who necessarily swallow the slimiest rats, are not prepared to support that hypocrite.

          “The court of public opinion”? You really have no idea.

      • Colonial Viper 9.2.2
        23 December 2013 at 5:10 pm

        Doubtful. Especially when email details like to/from/date etc. can be easily spammed or falsified.

        • Draco T Bastard 9.2.2.1
          23 December 2013 at 6:02 pm

          Yeah, that’s what I’m thinking. When was the email really sent?

          • phillip ure 9.2.2.1.1
            24 December 2013 at 6:35 am

            brewer is now admitting the call from drinnan ‘may’ have happened just before he filed his register..

            ..but he ‘can’t remember’..

            ..and those who called me a liar/accused me of making shit up..over this..

            ..well they can form an orderly line on the right..eh..?

            ..and the dates show the email to brewer from drinnan…was the day before he filed his notification of the perk…

            ..mm-kay..?

            phillip ure..

  10. Anne 10
    23 December 2013 at 2:23 pm

    Congrats to Labour. Great idea. Feel free to send John Key one of the Xmas cards. Only your first name will be included. I chose ‘the living wage’ but incorporated the others in my message. The more people who send the better…

    http://christmas-cards-to-key.co.nz/

    • karol 10.1
      23 December 2013 at 8:49 pm

      Good idea, but

      By sending a card you agree to receive occasional email from Labour on this and similar campaigns. You can opt out at any time.

      Why can’t we opt out from the get go?

      • Anne 10.1.1
        23 December 2013 at 10:09 pm

        The unsubscribe ‘button’ is on the bottom of the opening gambit which contains membership details karol. I suspect you will only receive an email when they have another such campaign like the Asset Sales referendum and this Xmas card campaign. There is always and unsubscribe button at the bottom of the actual email so you can opt out the first time you receive one.

  11. Draco T Bastard 11
    23 December 2013 at 3:38 pm

    It’s Time to Turn Away From the God of Economic Growth

    Growth always, everywhere

    It’s hard to ignore the blitz of messages espousing the virtues of growth. Jobs and prosperity, we’re told, happen only through growth. When growth doesn’t happen, we experience a recession, and that’s bad. Growth has become the mantra and god of governments around the world.

    And yet it’s impossible to have infinite growth on a finite planet.

    (Ironically, it appears that much of our national strategy lies in exploiting and exporting non-renewable resources.)

    And where have we seen that before? Oh, that would be from this government and the previous one and the one before that…Mine more, farm more, sell, sell, sell. We never hear anything different and then wonder why our society is producing more and more poverty.

    • RedLogix 11.1
      23 December 2013 at 4:39 pm

      Here’s just one line from that article DtB:

      The implication is a limitless planet with limitless resources. Run out of copper? Just move on and find a new mine. Run out of oil? Just drill a new well.

      Just one example; the median gold ore grade currently being dug up by the worlds 10 largest miners these days is around than 1g/tonne. That’s down from over 4g/tonne about 15 yrs ago.

      http://www.caseyresearch.com/cdd/peak-gold

      By far the largest production cost in conventional mining is the energy cost of getting the raw rock out of the mine and into the processing plant. The implication of these numbers is startling – these miners are now digging up 5 times more rock than they were just 15 years ago.

      When the grade drops to 0.5% as it surely will in less than a decade they will have to double again the amount of rock they are digging up.

      This law of diminishing returns is playing out in every important resource sector – this is the fundamental limit we are ignoring in our magical “infinite growth, forever technology” belief system.

      But here is the kicker. I actually don’t think that the resource limit will be hit first. I’m beginning to think that ordinary people will simply will simply stop buying all the crap that we are meant to be buying. I think a lot of people are waking up to the realisation that this gross excess of materialistic crap that is being force-fed onto us – is making us sick.

      We really need something else – love, compassion and the opportunity to be creative, to excel or to be of service to others.

      • Colonial Viper 11.1.1
        23 December 2013 at 4:44 pm

        Income insufficiency is making a lot of people realise – through necessity – that a different way of living and thinking is possible

        Also see below – article on economic rent extraction – which is very relevant.

      • Draco T Bastard 11.1.2
        23 December 2013 at 6:05 pm

        I think a lot of people will wake up to the realisation that this gross excess of materialistic crap that is being force-fed onto us – is making us sick.

        I truly hope so and I see this (video) of an indication of that swing.

    • Flip 11.2
      23 December 2013 at 9:51 pm

      +GPP (Gross Planetary Product)

      When Cunliffe mentions growth I think Labour needs to get some better economic advisors so that they can actually propose an economic plan that factors in the issues described in the post and differentiate themselves from National and provide a future for the people of NZ. There is plenty of literature and studied options but vested interests hold the politicians, country and the planet captive.

      The machinery of government cannot see past GDP so everyone uses the same rhetoric. Cannot see much of a diff in economic plan between Nat and Labour.

  12. Colonial Viper 12
    23 December 2013 at 4:42 pm

    When trade and competitive advantage is replaced by rent extraction and economic toll booths

    Yes, it’s coming from the fact that for the 99%, their income’s going down and for the 1% they’re making capital gains and interest. The 1% have the 99% of the population in debt to themselves, so they’re collecting and it’s like a siphon taking all the wealth upwards. And first the 1% are looking for all the income that the 99% have to be pledged to pay the debt and then they want all the assets. So the wealth gap is coming.

    http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/20788-trade-advantage-replaced-by-rent-extraction

  13. Morrissey 13
    23 December 2013 at 7:37 pm

    Look who the latest shill for mass killing is.
    U.S. military propaganda merchants truly have no shame
    Monday 23 December 2013

    Santa Claus has been associated with some pretty dodgy products, like smoking [1], brothels [2], and some really disgusting people [3], so it’s hard to be shocked at the crassness of Santa-related shilling of products. But the tail-end of tonight’s Television One news, the light-hearted bit after the weather, still managed to shock me and I’m sure anyone else who was actually paying attention.

    It was a jokey little piece of product placement by the American military. Introduced in jovial tone by Wendy Petrie, this “whimsical” piece informed viewers, in mock-serious tone, that NORAD has been tracking Santa for the last sixty years—cue clever graphics of jet-planes flanking a sleigh—and deploying an “anti-grinch” device. Ho ho ho.

    Odd that Television One studiously avoids more than the most cursory mention of the real activities of NORAD, yet is prepared to grant a considerable amount of time to a fantasy about a benign NORAD.

    Encouragingly, though, there are more astute and moral people in the world than the people who run television news in this country. This item from Denver, Colorado shows that not all Americans are meekly accepting such contemptuous propaganda….
    http://www.ravallirepublic.com/news/national/article_9194eaba-da44-5537-9402-67a323406bad.html

    [1] http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2008/10/06/business/07adco3_190.jpg

    [2] http://www.retronaut.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/2.png
    http://resources3.news.com.au/images/2013/12/12/1226781/422623-6ec592a4-6211-11e3-be16-1445237cc09f.jpg

    [3] http://assets.thefiscaltimes.com/TFT2_20101228/App_Data/MediaFiles/9/8/1/%7B981A14BC-41C8-49F3-B45F-5C6D005DA98D%7D12202011_Trump_Santa_article.jpg

  14. amirite 14
    23 December 2013 at 8:04 pm

    ‘Various studies have found that as a person’s level of wealth increases, their feelings of compassion and empathy go down, and their feelings of entitlement, of deservingness and their ideology of self-interest increases.’

    Looks like someone has had an epiphany.

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=11176785

  15. joe90 15
    23 December 2013 at 9:57 pm

    Seems all would be well if the world went back to the old ways, with the right people in charge of course.
    /

    http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304367204579268301043949952

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    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
    14 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 ...
    Skeptical Science
    16 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
    18 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
    20 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
    20 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 ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    1 day ago

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

  • All the Green Tech in China.
    Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago

  • Western Express Success
    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 ...
    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    2 days ago

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

  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

  • Thank you
    This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

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

  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

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

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

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

  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

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

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

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

  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    “You talking about me?”  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    Bowalley Road
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 days ago

  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

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

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

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

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

  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    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. ...
    Skeptical Science
    4 days ago

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

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

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

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

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

  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 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
    7 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
    14 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
    15 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
    16 hours ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
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