Open mike 25/02/2019
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7:05 am, February 25th, 2019 - 150 comments
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- At a glance – Tree ring proxies and the divergence problem
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 ...6 hours ago - Nothing to sneer at
Who likes being sneered at? Nobody. Worse yet, when the sneerer has their facts all wrong, and might well be an idiot.The sneer in question is The adults are in charge now, and it is a sneer offered in retort to criticism of this new Government, no matter how well ...8 hours ago - Still on their bullshit
When in government, Labour pushed to extend the Parliamentary term to four years, to reduce accountability and our ability to vote out a bad government. And now, they're trying to do it through the member's ballot, with a Four-Year Parliamentary Term Legislation Bill. The bill at least requires a referendum ...10 hours ago - DrawnA ballot for a single Member's Bill was held today, and the following bill was drawn: Public Works (Prohibition of Compulsory Acquisition of Māori Land) Amendment Bill (Hūhana Lyndon) The bill would prevent the government from stealing Māori land in breach of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It ...11 hours ago
- A nod and a wink that will unnecessarily cost Aucklanders tens of millions per year
Simeon Brown, alongside Wayne Brown, is favouring a political figleaf now in exchange for loading up tens of millions in extra interest costs on Auckland ratepayers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: Ratings agency Standard & Poor’s is pushing back hard at suggestions from Local Government Minister Simeon Brown and Mayor Wayne Brown ...13 hours ago - Correcting the Corrections announcement – a fiscal farce that should bother the OECD
Buzz from the Beehive One headline-grabber from the Beehive yesterday was the OECD’s advice that the government must bring the Budget deficit under control or face higher interest rates. Another was the announcement of a $1.9 billion “investment” in Corrections over the next four years. In the best interests of ...13 hours ago - Like it or not, the Kiwis are either going into ‘Pillar 2’ – or they are going to China
Chris Trotter writes – Had Zheng He’s fleet sailed east, not west, in the early Fifteenth Century, how different our world would be. There is little reason to suppose that the sea-going junks of the Ming Dynasty, among the largest and most sophisticated sailing vessels ever constructed, would have failed ...15 hours ago - A balanced and an unbalanced articleDavid Farrar writes – Two articles give a useful contrast in balance. Both seek to be neutral explainer articles. This one in the Herald on Social Investment covers the pros and cons nicely. It links to critical pieces and talks about aspects that failed and aspects that are more ...15 hours ago
- Deeply unserious countryEvery bit of this seems insane. And people wonder why productivity is falling through the floor. Energy News reports that the Environment Court finally threw out Allan Crafar’s appeal against a solar farm. From the story: Consent was granted in 2022. Crafar appealed November 2022. On what grounds? That ...15 hours ago
- Senior King’s Counsel files complaint about compulsory tikanga Māori studies for law studentsThe tikanga regulations will compel law students to be taught that a system which does not conform with the rule of law is nevertheless law which should be observed and applied… Gary Judd KC writes – I have made a complaint to Parliament’s Regulation ...15 hours ago
- https://www.greaterauckland.org.nz/?p=77196
The future of Te Huia, the train between Hamilton and Auckland, has been getting a lot of attention recently as current funding for it is only in place till the end of June. The government initially agreed to a five year trial, through to April 2026, but that was subject ...17 hours ago - Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Tuesday, May 7
TL;DR: Hamas has just agreed to Israel’s ceasefire plan. Nelson hospital’s rebuild has been cut back to save money. The OECD suggests New Zealand break up network monopolies, including in electricity. PM Christopher Luxon’s news conference on a prison expansion announcement last night was his messiest yet.Here’s my top six ...17 hours ago - HM Prison Aotearoa.
A homicide in Ponsonby, a manhunt with a killer on the run. The nation’s leader stands before a press conference reassuring a frightened nation that he’ll sort it out, he’ll keep them safe, he’ll build some new prison spaces.Sorry what? There’s a scary dude on the run with a gun ...18 hours ago - Get Your Webworm Merch!
Hi,I know it’s been awhile since there’s been any Webworm merch — and today that all changes!Over the last four months, I’ve been working with New Zealand artist Jess Johnson to create a series of t-shirts, caps and stickers that are infused with Webworm DNA — and as of right ...18 hours ago - Top OECD economist puts Willis between a rock and a hard place
The OECD’s chief economist yesterday laid it on the line for the new Government: bring the deficit under control or face higher Reserve Bank interest rates for longer. And to bring the deficit under control, she meant not borrowing for tax cuts. But there was more. Without policy changes—introducing a ...20 hours ago - Media Link: “A View from Afar” on the moment of friction, and more.
After a hiatus of over four months Selwyn Manning and I finally got it together to re-start the “A View from Afar” podcast series. We shall see how we go but aim to do 2 episodes per month if possible. … Continue reading ...1 day ago - Preposterous priorities – politicians preferred pastryNewsroom writer Aaron Smale, in an article triggered by the High Court’s ruling on whether a sitting MP must respond to a summons to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal, reports on issues underpinning the tribunal’s urgent inquiry into the Government’s intention to remove Section 7AA from the Oranga Tamariki ...1 day ago
- Climate Change: Forcing accountability in the UKIn 2008, the UK Parliament passed the Climate Change Act 2008. The law established a system of targets, budgets, and plans, with inbuilt accountability mechanisms; the aim was to break the cycle of empty promises and replace it with actual progress towards emissions reduction. The law was passed with near-universal ...1 day ago
- Other councils are keen to be next to strike a water deal with govtBuzz from the Beehive Local Water Done Well – let’s be blunt – is a silly name, but the first big initiative to put it into practice has gone done well. This success is reflected in the headline on an RNZ report: District mayors welcome Auckland’s new water deal with ...1 day ago
- Why India is key to heading off climate catastropheThis is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections A farmworker cleans the solar panels of a solar water pump in the village of Jagadhri, Haryana Country, India. (Photo credit: Prashanth Vishwanathan/ IWMI) Decisions made in India over the next few years will play a key role in global ...2 days ago
- Meanwhile “… the disturbing trend of increasing violence towards children continues to worsen”Lindsay Mitchell writes – The Children’s Minister, Karen Chhour, intends to repeal Section 7AA from the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 because it creates conflict between claimed Crown Treaty obligations and the child’s best interests. In her words, “Oranga Tamariki’s governing principles and its act should be colour ...2 days ago
- New Zealand’s geopolitical friendly fire has its limitsGeoffrey Miller writes – The gloves are off. That might seem to be the undertone of surprisingly tough talk from New Zealand’s foreign and trade ministers. Winston Peters, the foreign minister, may be facing legal action after making allegations about former Australian foreign minister Bob Carr on Radio New Zealand. ...2 days ago
- The post-Covid economy: is it in another long stagnation – and if so, why?Brian Easton writes – This is about the time that the Treasury will be locking up its economic forecasts to be published in the 2024 Budget Economic and Fiscal Update (BEFU) on budget day, 30 May. I am not privy to what they will be (I will report on them ...2 days ago
- On the LTP 2024 FeedbackA few weeks ago Auckland Council released the results of consultation on the Long Term Plan (LTP) that occurred in March. With almost 28,000 submissions, it received the most feedback of any LTP in Auckland. It covered a wide range of topics soliciting feedback on different areas of council funded ...2 days ago
- Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Monday, May 6
TL;DR: Winston Peters is reported to have won a budget increase for MFAT. David Seymour wanted his Ministry of Regulation to be three times bigger than the Productivity Commission. Simeon Brown is appointing a Crown Monitor to Watercare to protect the Claytons Crown Guarantee he had to give ratings agencies ...2 days ago - Geoffrey Miller: New Zealand’s geopolitical friendly fire has its limits
The gloves are off. That might seem to be the undertone of surprisingly tough talk from New Zealand’s foreign and trade ministers. Winston Peters, the foreign minister, may be facing legal action after making allegations about former Australian foreign minister Bob Carr on Radio New Zealand. Carr had made highly ...2 days ago - I could be a Florist.
I could be a florist'Round the corner from Rye LaneI'll be giving daisies to craziesBut, baby, I'll wrap you up real safe Oh, I can give you flowers At the end of every dayFor the center of your table, a rainbowIn case you have people 'round to stay Depending on ...2 days ago - The Kaka’s diary for the week to May 12 and beyond
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to May 12 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Finance Minister Nicola Willis will give a pre-budget speech on Thursday.Parliament sits from Question Time at 2pm on ...2 days ago - Willis on defenceThe price of the foreign affairs “reset” is now becoming apparent, with Defence set to get a funding boost in the Budget. Finance Minister Nicola Willis has confirmed that it will be one of the few votes, apart from Health and Education and possibly Police, which will get an increase ...2 days ago
- 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #18A listing of 26 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 28, 2024 thru Sat, May 4, 2024. Story of the week "It’s straight out of Big Tobacco’s playbook. In fact, research by John Cook and his colleagues ...2 days ago
- A prerequisite for Vulture Capitalism.
Yesterday I received come lovely feedback following my Star Wars themed newsletter. A few people mentioned they’d enjoyed reading the personal part at the beginning.I often begin newsletters with some memories, or general thoughts, before commencing the main topic. This hopefully sets the mood and provides some context in which ...3 days ago - Early evening, April 30
April 30 was going to be the day we’d be calling Mum from London to wish her a happy birthday. Then it became the day we would be going to St. Paul's at Evensong to remember her. The aim of the cathedral builders was to find a way to make their ...3 days ago - Do Newsroom’s staff think they’re culturally superior to the rest of us? Are they arguing that A...Rob MacCulloch writes – Can’t remember the last book by a Kiwi author you read? Think the NZ government should spend less on the arts in favor of helping the homeless? If so, as far as Newsroom is concerned, you probably deserve to be called a cultural ignoramus ...4 days ago
- Fun minor grudgesEric Crampton writes – Grudges are bad. Better to move on. But it can be fun to keep a couple of really trivial ones, so you’re not tempted to have other ones. For example, because of the rootkit fiasco of 2005, no Sony products in our household. ...4 days ago
- Bernard’s dawn chorus for Saturday, May 4 and pick ‘n’ mix for the weekendA new report warns an estimated third of the adult population have unmet need for health care. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāHere’s the six key things I learned about Aotaroa’s political economy this week around housing, climate and poverty:Politics - Three opinion polls confirmed support for PM Christopher Luxon ...4 days ago
- The Dark Side and the Rebel Alliance.
Today is May the fourth. Which was just a regular day when my mother took me to see the newly released Star Wars at the Odeon in Rotorua. The queue was right around the corner. Some years later this day became known as Star Wars Day, the date being a ...4 days ago - Imaginary mandate, imaginary leadership
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.ShareVerity, Ilfracombe ...4 days ago - Winston Peters delivers a speech about NZ’s relationship with China but media focus on Bob Carr’...Buzz from the Beehive Much more media attention is being paid to something Winston Peters said about former Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr than to a speech he delivered to the New Zealand China Council. One word is missing from the speech: AUKUS. But AUKUS loomed large in his considerations ...4 days ago
- The Post-Covid Economy
Is the economy in another long stagnation? If so, why?This is about the time that the Treasury will be locking up its economic forecasts to be published in the 2024 Budget Economic and Fiscal Update (BEFU) on budget day, 30 May. I am not privy to what they will be ...4 days ago - An awkward coincidence!The annual list of who's been bribing our politicians is out, and journalists will no doubt be poring over it to find the juiciest and dirtiest bribes. The government's fast-track invite list is likely to be a particular focus, and we already know of one company on the list which ...4 days ago
- The Israel/Palestinian metastasis.In the weeks after the October 7 Hamas attacks on Southern Israel I wrote about the possible 2nd, 3rd and even 4th order effects of the conflict. These included new fronts being opened in the West Bank (with Hamas), Golan … Continue reading ...4 days ago
- 27,000That's the number of submissions received on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track legislation. Except its higher than that, because the number doesn't include form submissions, such as the 15,000 people who supported Forest & Bird's submission, or the 14,000 who supported Greenpeace. And so many people want to appear in person ...5 days ago
- MPs’ salaries – when is the best time to increase them?Peter Dunne writes – It is one of the oldest truisms that there is never a good time for MPs to get a pay rise. This week’s announcement of pay raises of around 2.8% backdated to last October could hardly have come at a worse time, with the ...5 days ago
- Genter under fireDavid Farrar writes – Newshub reports: Newshub can reveal a fresh allegation of intimidation against Green MP Julie-Anne Genter. Genter is subject to a disciplinary process for aggressively waving a book in the face of National Minister Matt Doocey in the House – but it’s not the first time ...5 days ago
- New Treasury paper on the productivity slowdown supports the downgrading of forecastsThe Treasury has published a paper today on the global productivity slowdown and how it is playing out in New Zealand: The productivity slowdown: implications for the Treasury’s forecasts and projections. The Treasury Paper examines recent trends in productivity and the potential drivers of the slowdown. Productivity for the whole economy ...5 days ago
- Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Friday, May 3
TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 9:26 am on Friday, May 3:Climate 'Ministerial override must go' - Hearings begin over fast-track bill RNZ Kate GreenPopulation: Labour hire firm struggling to find staff as Australia lures away workers. HireStaff ...5 days ago - Weekly Roundup 3-May-2024Here we are in May already! And here are a few of the stories that caught our eye this week. This Week on Greater Auckland On Monday, Matt highlighted that it’s been a decade since Auckland’s rail system was electrified. On Wednesday, Matt looked at AT’s rollout of new ways ...5 days ago
- The Hoon around the week to May 35 days ago
- Pamphlets at Ten Paces.
These puppet strings don't pull themselvesYou're thinking thoughts from someone elseHow much time do you think you have?Are you prepared for what comes next?The debating chamber can be a trying place for an opposition MP. What with the person in charge, the speaker, typically being an MP from the governing ...5 days ago - A land without pier
The land around Lyme Regis, where Meryl Streep once stood, in a hood, on the Cobb, is falling into the sea.MerylThe land around Lyme Regis, around the Cobb that made it rich, has always been falling slowly but surely into the sea. Read more ...5 days ago - Skeptical Science New Research for Week #18 2024Open access notables Generative AI tools can enhance climate literacy but must be checked for biases and inaccuracies, Atkins et al., Communications Earth & Environment: In the face of climate change, climate literacy is becoming increasingly important. With wide access to generative AI tools, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, we explore the potential ...5 days ago
- Ruckus over AUKUS – Labour demands Peters step down as Foreign Minister, but he still had the job ...Buzz from the Beehive Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters was bound to win headlines when he set out his thinking about AUKUS in his speech to the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. The headlines became bigger when – during an interview on RNZ’s Morning Report today – he criticised ...5 days ago
- Secrecy undermines participationThe Post reports on how the government is refusing to release its advice on its corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law, instead using the "soon to be publicly available" refusal ground to hide it until after select committee submissions on the bill have closed. Fast-track Minister Chris Bishop's excuse? “It's not ...5 days ago
- Agribusiness following oil and gas playbookAs pressure on it grows, the livestock industry’s approach to the transition to Net Zero is increasingly being compared to that of fossil fuel interests. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / Getty ImagesTL;DR: Here’s the top five news items of note in climate news for Aotearoa-NZ this week, and a discussion above ...5 days ago
- Here’s hoping they aren’t counting on a 100 per cent acceptance…The New Zealand Herald reports – Stats NZ has offered a voluntary redundancy scheme to all of its workers as a way to give staff some control over their “future” amidst widespread job losses in the public sector. In an update to staff this morning, seen by the Herald, Statistics New Zealand ...5 days ago
- Gordon Campbell on unemployment, Winston Peters’ low boiling point and music criticismOn Werewolf/Scoop, I usually do two long form political columns a week. From now on, there will be an extra column each week about music and movies. But first, some late-breaking political events: The rise in unemployment numbers for the March quarter was bigger than expected – and especially sharp ...6 days ago
- TVNZ and poll results6 days ago
- Mana or MoneyMuriel Newman writes – When Meridian Energy was seeking resource consents for a West Coast hydro dam proposal in 2010, local Maori “strenuously” objected, claiming their mana was inextricably linked to ‘their’ river and could be damaged. After receiving a financial payment from the company, however, the Ngai Tahu ...6 days ago
- Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Thursday, May 2
TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 11:10 am on Thursday, May 2:Scoop: Government sits on official advice on fast-track consent. The Ombudsman is investigating after official briefings on the contentious regime were held back despite requests from Forest ...6 days ago - The Art of taking no ResponsibilityAlwyn Poole writes – “An SEP,’ he said, ‘is something that we can’t see, or don’t see, or our brain doesn’t let us see, because we think that it’s somebody else’s problem. That’s what SEP means. Somebody Else’s Problem. The brain just edits it out, it’s like a ...6 days ago
- The shabby “Parliamentary urgency” ploy – shaky foundations and why our democracy needs trustOur trust in our political institutions is fast eroding, according to a Maxim Institute discussion paper, Shaky Foundations: Why our democracy needs trust. The paper – released today – raises concerns about declining trust in New Zealand’s political institutions and democratic processes, and the role that the overuse of Parliamentary urgency ...6 days ago
- Jones has made plain he isn’t fond of frogs (not the dim-witted ones, at least) – and now we lea...This article was prepared for publication yesterday. More ministerial announcements have been posted on the government’s official website since it was written. We will report on these later today …. Buzz from the Beehive There we were, thinking the environment is in trouble, when along came Jones. Shane Jones. ...6 days ago
- Infrastructure & home building slumping on Govt funding freeze6 days ago
- Brainwashed People Think Everyone Else is Brainwashed
Hi,I am just going to state something very obvious: American police are fucking crazy.That was a photo gracing the New York Times this morning, showing New York City police “entering Columbia University last night after receiving a request from the school.”Apparently in America, protesting the deaths of tens of thousands ...6 days ago - Peters’ real foreign policy threat is Helen ClarkWinston Peters’ much anticipated foreign policy speech last night was a work of two halves. Much of it was a standard “boilerplate” Foreign Ministry overview of the state of the world. There was some hardening up of rhetoric with talk of “benign” becoming “malign” and old truths giving way to ...6 days ago
- NZ’s trans lobby is fighting a rearguard action
Graham Adams assesses the fallout of the Cass Review — The press release last Thursday from the UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls didn’t make the mainstream news in New Zealand but it really should have. The startling title of Reem Alsalem’s statement — “Implementation of ‘Cass ...6 days ago - Your mandate is imaginary
This open-for-business, under-new-management cliché-pockmarked government of Christopher Luxon is not the thing of beauty he imagines it to be. It is not the powerful expression of the will of the people that he asserts it to be. It is not a soaring eagle, it is a malodorous vulture. This newest poll should make ...6 days ago - 14,000 unemployed under NationalThe latest labour market statistics, showing a rise in unemployment. There are now 134,000 unemployed - 14,000 more than when the National government took office. Which is I guess what happens when the Reserve Bank causes a recession in an effort to Keep Wages Low. The previous government saw a ...6 days ago
- Bryce Edwards: Discontent and gloom dominate NZ’s political moodThree opinion polls have been released in the last two days, all showing that the new government is failing to hold their popular support. The usual honeymoon experienced during the first year of a first term government is entirely absent. The political mood is still gloomy and discontented, mainly due ...6 days ago
- Taking Tea with 42 & 38.
National's Finance Minister once met a poor person.A scornful interview with National's finance guru who knows next to nothing about economics or people.There might have been something a bit familiar if that was the headline I’d gone with today. It would of course have been in tribute to the article ...7 days ago - Beware political propaganda: statistics are pointing to Grant Robertson never protecting “Lives an...Rob MacCulloch writes – Throughout the pandemic, the new Vice-Chancellor-of-Otago-University-on-$629,000 per annum-Can-you-believe-it-and-Former-Finance-Minister Grant Robertson repeated the mantra over and over that he saved “lives and livelihoods”. As we update how this claim is faring over the course of time, the facts are increasingly speaking differently. NZ ...7 days ago
- Winding back the hands of history’s clockChris Trotter writes – IT’S A COMMONPLACE of political speeches, especially those delivered in acknowledgement of electoral victory: “We’ll govern for all New Zealanders.” On the face of it, the pledge is a strange one. Why would any political leader govern in ways that advantaged the huge ...7 days ago
- Paula Bennett’s political appointment will challenge public confidence
Bryce Edwards writes – The list of former National Party Ministers being given plum and important roles got longer this week with the appointment of former Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett as the chair of Pharmac. The Christopher Luxon-led Government has now made key appointments to Bill ...7 days ago - Business confidence sliding into winter of discontentTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy at 10:06am on Wednesday, May 1:The Lead: Business confidence fell across the board in April, falling in some areas to levels last seen during the lockdowns because of a collapse in ...7 days ago
- Gordon Campbell on the coalition’s awful, not good, very bad poll resultsOver the past 36 hours, Christopher Luxon has been dong his best to portray the centre-right’s plummeting poll numbers as a mark of virtue. Allegedly, the negative verdicts are the result of hard economic times, and of a government bravely set out on a perilous rescue mission from which not ...7 days ago
- Members Bill will prevent Māori land confiscations
Green Party MP Hūhana Lyndon says her Public Works (Prohibition of Compulsory Acquisition of Māori Land) Amendment Bill is an opportunity to right some past wrongs around the alienation of Māori land. ...9 hours ago - TIKANGA IS NOT LAW. IT IS CULTURAL INDOCTRINATION.
A senior, highly respected King’s Counsel with decades of experience in our law courts, Gary Judd KC, has filed a complaint about compulsory tikanga Māori studies for law students - highlighting the utter depths of absurdity this woke cultural madness has taken our society. The tikanga regulations will compel law ...11 hours ago - Release: National won’t commit to full Nelson Hospital upgrade
The Government needs to be clear with the people of the Nelson Marlborough region about the changes it is considering for the Nelson Hospital rebuild, Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said. ...16 hours ago - Release: Labour calls for fast track list to be releasedMinisters must front up about which projects it will push through under its Fast Track Approvals legislation, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...2 days ago
- Release: National gaslights women fighting for equal payNational has scrapped the pay equity taskforce that fights for equal pay for women and looks at ethnic pay gaps. ...5 days ago
- Release: More job cuts, fewer houses under NationalThe Government is again adding to New Zealand’s growing unemployment, this time cutting jobs at the agencies responsible for urban development and growing much needed housing stock. ...5 days ago
- Release: Children fall deeper through the cracks in Govt cutsWith Minister Karen Chhour indicating in the House today that she either doesn’t know or care about the frontline cuts she’s making to Oranga Tamariki, we risk seeing more and more of our children falling through the cracks. ...5 days ago
- Release: Labour honours memory of Sir Robert MartinThe Labour Party is saddened to learn of the death of Sir Robert Martin, a globally renowned disability advocate who led the way for disability rights both in New Zealand and internationally. ...6 days ago
- Release: 130,000 cattle saved from live exportLabour is calling for the Government to urgently rethink its coalition commitment to restart live animal exports, Labour animal welfare spokesperson Rachel Boyack said. ...6 days ago
- Central Bank makes clear Government is pouring fuel on housing crisis fireToday’s Financial Stability Report has once again highlighted that poverty and deep inequality are political choices - and this Government is choosing to make them worse. ...6 days ago
- New unemployment figures paint bleak pictureThe Green Party is calling on the Government to do more for our households in most need as unemployment rises and the cost of living crisis endures. ...7 days ago
- Release: National’s job cuts already starting to bite as unemployment risesUnemployment is on the rise and it’s only going to get worse under this Government, Labour finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said. Stats NZ figures show the unemployment rate grew to 4.3 percent in the March quarter from 4 percent in the December quarter. “This is the second rise in unemployment ...7 days ago
- Release: National hiking transport costs for families and young New ZealandersWeekly expenses will grow for more than 1.6 million New Zealanders as the Government ends free and half price public transport fares tomorrow. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour welcomes EU free trade agreementThe New Zealand Labour Party welcomes the entering into force of the European Union and New Zealand free trade agreement. This agreement opens the door for a huge increase in trade opportunities with a market of 450 million people who are high value discerning consumers of New Zealand goods and ...1 week ago
- Surprise: Landlord tax cuts don’t trickle downThe Green Party is renewing its call for rent controls following reports of rental prices hitting an all-time high. ...1 week ago
- Release: $1.7b for no increase in access to medicineThe National-led Government continues its fiscal jiggery pokery with its Pharmac announcement today, Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall says. “The government has increased Pharmac funding but conceded it will only make minimal increases in access to medicine”, said Ayesha Verrall “This is far from the bold promises made to fund ...1 week ago
- Release: National should heed Tribunal warning and scrap coalition commitment with ACTThis afternoon’s interim Waitangi Tribunal report must be taken seriously as it affects our most vulnerable children, Labour children’s spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime. ...1 week ago
- Release: More accountability for preventable workplace deaths this Workers’ Memorial DayLabour is calling for more accountability for preventable workplace deaths because everybody who goes to work deserves to come home safely. ...1 week ago
- Gaza: Aotearoa Must Support Independent Investigation into Mass GravesTe Pāti Māori are demanding the New Zealand Government support an international independent investigation into mass graves that have been uncovered at two hospitals on the Gaza strip, following weeks of assault by Israeli troops. Among the 392 bodies that have been recovered, are children and elderly civilians. Many of ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Working together on consistent support for veterans this Anzac DayOur two-tiered system for veterans’ support is out of step with our closest partners, and all parties in Parliament should work together to fix it, Labour veterans’ affairs spokesperson Greg O’Connor said. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Penny drops – but what about Seymour and Peters?Stripping two Ministers of their portfolios just six months into the job shows Christopher Luxon’s management style is lacking, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said. ...2 weeks ago
- Another ‘Stolen Generation’ enabled by court ruling on Waitangi Tribunal summonsTonight’s court decision to overturn the summons of the Children’s Minister has enabled the Crown to continue making decisions about Māori without evidence, says Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Children, Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. “The judicial system has this evening told the nation that this government can do whatever they want when ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Budget blunder shows Nicola Willis could cut recovery fundingIt appears Nicola Willis is about to pull the rug out from under the feet of local communities still dealing with the aftermath of last year’s severe weather, and local councils relying on funding to build back from these disasters. ...2 weeks ago
- Further environmental mismanagement on the cardsThe Government’s resource management reforms will add to the heavy and ever-growing burden this Government is loading on to our environment. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: RMA changes will be a disaster for environmentThe Government is making short-sighted changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) that will take away environmental protection in favour of short-term profits, Labour’s environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour supports urgent changes to emergency management systemLabour welcomes the release of the report into the North Island weather events and looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that New Zealand is as prepared as it can be for the next natural disaster. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour calls for New Zealand to recognise PalestineThe Labour Party has called for the New Zealand Government to recognise Palestine, as a material step towards progressing the two-State solution needed to achieve a lasting peace in the region. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Three strikes law political posturing of worst kindThe Government is bringing back a law that has little evidential backing just to look tough, Labour justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Government cuts unbelievably target child exploitation, violent extremism, ports and airpor...Some of our country’s most important work, stopping the sexual exploitation of children and violent extremism could go along with staff on the frontline at ports and airports. ...2 weeks ago
- Three strikes has failed before and will fail againResurrecting the archaic three-strikes legislation is an unwelcome return to a failed American-style approach to justice. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Environmental protection vital, not ‘onerous’The Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill will give projects such as new coal mines a ‘get out of jail free’ card to wreak havoc on the environment, Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said today. ...2 weeks ago
- Ferris – Three Strikes targets those ‘too brown to be white’The government's decision to reintroduce Three Strikes is a destructive and ineffective piece of law-making that will only exacerbate an inherently biased and racist criminal justice system, said Te Pāti Māori Justice Spokesperson, Tākuta Ferris, today. During the time Three Strikes was in place in Aotearoa, Māori and Pasifika received ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Govt cuts doctors and nurses in hiring freezeCuts to frontline hospital staff are not only a broken election promise, it shows the reckless tax cuts have well and truly hit the frontline of the health system, says Labour Health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall. ...3 weeks ago
- Fast-track submissions period must be extendedThe Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...3 weeks ago
- Release: Progress on climate will be undone by GovtNew Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...3 weeks ago
- Defence industry talent, commitment recognised
Defence Minister Judith Collins tonight announced the recipients of the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for Industry, saying they all contribute to New Zealanders’ security and wellbeing. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients, whose innovative products and services play a critical role in the delivery of New Zealand’s defence capabilities, ...5 hours ago - Speech to the Minister of Defence Awards of Excellence for IndustryWelcome to you all - it is a pleasure to be here this evening.I would like to start by thanking Greg Lowe, Chair of the New Zealand Defence Industry Advisory Council, for co-hosting this reception with me. This evening is about recognising businesses from across New Zealand and overseas who in ...5 hours ago
- Speech to the Sixth Annual New Zealand Government Data SummitIt is a pleasure to be speaking to you as the Minister for Digitising Government. I would like to thank Akolade for the invitation to address this Summit, and to acknowledge the great effort you are making to grow New Zealand’s digital future. Today, we stand at the cusp of ...6 hours ago
- Ceasefire agreement needed now: PetersNew Zealand is urging both Israel and Hamas to agree to an immediate ceasefire to avoid the further humanitarian catastrophe that military action in Rafah would unleash, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. “The immense suffering in Gaza cannot be allowed to worsen further. Both sides have a responsibility to ...12 hours ago
- Daily school attendance data now availableA new online data dashboard released today as part of the Government’s school attendance action plan makes more timely daily attendance data available to the public and parents, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. The interactive dashboard will be updated once a week to show a national average of how ...12 hours ago
- Ambassador to United States appointedForeign Minister Winston Peters has announced Rosemary Banks will be New Zealand’s next Ambassador to the United States of America. “Our relationship with the United States is crucial for New Zealand in strategic, security and economic terms,” Mr Peters says. “New Zealand and the United States have a ...15 hours ago
- New permit proposed for recreational gold miningThe Government is considering creating a new tier of minerals permitting that will make it easier for hobby miners to prospect for gold. “New Zealand was built on gold, it’s in our DNA. Our gold deposits, particularly in regions such as Otago and the West Coast have always attracted fortune-hunters. ...16 hours ago
- NZ and the UAE launch FTA negotiationsMinister for Trade Todd McClay today announced that New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will commence negotiations on a free trade agreement (FTA). Minister McClay met with his counterpart UAE Trade Minister Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi in Dubai, where they announced the launch of negotiations on a ...20 hours ago
- New Zealand Sign Language Week an opportunity for anyone to signNew Zealand Sign Language Week is an excellent opportunity for all Kiwis to give the language a go, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. This week (May 6 to 12) is New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week. The theme is “an Aotearoa where anyone can sign anywhere” and aims to ...1 day ago
- Next stop NASA for New Zealand studentsSix tertiary students have been selected to work on NASA projects in the US through a New Zealand Space Scholarship, Space Minister Judith Collins announced today. “This is a fantastic opportunity for these talented students. They will undertake internships at NASA’s Ames Research Center or its Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where ...1 day ago
- $1.9 billion investment to keep NZ safe from crimeNew Zealanders will be safer because of a $1.9 billion investment in more frontline Corrections officers, more support for offenders to turn away from crime, and more prison capacity, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says. “Our Government said we would crack down on crime. We promised to restore law and order, ...1 day ago
- OECD reinforces need to control spendingThe OECD’s latest report on New Zealand reinforces the importance of bringing Government spending under control, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. The OECD conducts country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The 2024 New Zealand survey was presented in Wellington today by OECD Chief Economist Clare Lombardelli. ...1 day ago
- Agreement delivers Local Water Done Well for AucklandThe Government has delivered on its election promise to provide a financially sustainable model for Auckland under its Local Water Done Well plan. The plan, which has been unanimously endorsed by Auckland Council’s Governing Body, will see Aucklanders avoid the previously projected 25.8 per cent water rates increases while retaining ...3 days ago
- Gaza and the Pacific on the agenda with GermanyForeign Minister Winston Peters discussed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and enhanced cooperation in the Pacific with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during her first official visit to New Zealand today. "New Zealand and Germany enjoy shared interests and values, including the rule of law, democracy, respect for the international system ...3 days ago
- Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of PlentyThe Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...5 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand China CouncilThank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today. Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...5 days ago
- Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi householdsThe Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...5 days ago
- Government recommits to equal payThe coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says. “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...5 days ago
- Transforming how our children learn to readStructured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...5 days ago
- NZ not backing down in Canada dairy disputeTrade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...6 days ago
- Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable childrenThe rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...6 days ago
- Streamlining Building Consent ChangesThe Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...6 days ago
- Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...6 days ago
- Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...Good evening – Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us. ...6 days ago
- Accelerating airport security linesFrom today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...6 days ago
- Community hui to talk about kina barrensPeople with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...7 days ago
- Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into forceKiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...7 days ago
- Mining resurgence a welcome signThere are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...7 days ago
- Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first readingThe return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...1 week ago
- Government to boost public EV charging networkEnergy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure. The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...1 week ago
- Residential Property Managers Bill to not progressThe coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...1 week ago
- Independent review into disability support servicesThe Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...1 week ago
- Justice Minister updates UN on law & order planJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...1 week ago
- Ending emergency housing motels in RotoruaThe Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...1 week ago
- Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and DubaiTrade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...1 week ago
- Education priorities focused on lifting achievementEducation Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...1 week ago
- NZTA App first step towards digital driver licenceThe new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say. “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...1 week ago
- Supporting whānau out of emergency housingWhānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...1 week ago
- Tribute to Dave O'SullivanRacing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...1 week ago
- Speech – Eid al-FitrAssalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...1 week ago
- Prison spending: Waikeria to have capacity for nearly 2000 beds
The government has clarified just how many beds the Waikato prison will get after a series of maths gaffes - 455, 600, 810 or 1865? ...2 hours ago - ‘Repair colonial violence’ and support Gaza ceasefire, say Otago academics
Asia Pacific Report Following an open letter by Auckland University academics speaking out in support of their students’ right to protest against the genocidal Israeli war on Gaza, a group of academics at Otago University have today also called on New Zealand academic institutions to “repair colonial violence” and end ...4 hours ago - Expelling students for bad behaviour seems like the obvious solution, but is it really a good idea?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda J. Graham, Professor and Director of the Centre for Inclusive Education, Queensland University of Technology Ryan Tauss/ Unsplash, CC BY Two male students have been expelled from a Melbourne private school for their involvement in a list ranking female students. ...4 hours ago
- Green MP Julie Anne Genter responds after behaviour in the House, florist's accusations"I can do better," she says, acknowledging the need to work on her de-escalation strategy. ...5 hours ago
- If the RBA’s right, interest rates may not fall for another year. Here’s why – and what it mea...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Martin, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University The Reserve Bank is now assuming Australians will see no interest rate cuts this year – and quite possibly none before the next federal election, due next May. That’s ...5 hours ago
- ‘Eye watering’ spending, growing debt make up surprisingly generous Victorian state budgetSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Hayward, Emeritus Professor of Public Policy, RMIT University The Victorian budget offered more of the same on Tuesday, with the only change being how the budget papers were packaged. The usual shrink wrap was gone, hinting at savings in the pages ...5 hours ago
- Budgeting service cuts: 'It's like watching a train derail'With some services facing closure after missing out on the latest government funding, there are for some of NZ's most vulnerable. ...5 hours ago
- Coalition demands amendments to government’s deportation bill, as crucial High Court judgement set...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra The Coalition is demanding extensive amendments to the government’s legislation targeting non-citizens who refuse to co-operate with their removal. In a dissenting report to the senate inquiry into the legislation, the Coalition says it ...5 hours ago
- MP's comments 'bang on' despite negative response from other parties – Te Pāti...Te Pāti Māori is standing by comments made by MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi which other parties have called inflammatory and offensive. ...8 hours ago
- A story of trauma, hope and regaining control, Nayika: A Dancing Girl is soul-stirring dance theatreSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Vanita Yadav, Senior Research Fellow, Urban Transformations Research Centre, Western Sydney University Brett Boardman/Belvoir The complex and grappling issue of violence against women takes centre stage in the soul-stirring solo dance drama Nayika: A Dancing Girl. During a dinner conversation ...8 hours ago
- 'Pretty dire' situation for patients as junior doctors strike over pay cutsDisruption to patient care from a nationwide junior doctors strike is bordering on unsafe, a senior doctor claims, despite what health officials say. ...9 hours ago
- How does the drug abemaciclib treat breast cancer?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Diepstraten, Senior Research Officer, Blood Cells and Blood Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute Ground Picture/Shutterstock The anti-cancer drug abemaciclib (also known as Vernezio) has this month been added to the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) to treat certain ...9 hours ago
- How a filmmaker, a pile of old shells and a bunch of amateurs are bringing our oyster reefs backSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dominic McAfee, Postdoctoral researcher, marine ecology, University of Adelaide Robbie Porter, OzFish Unlimited Around Australia, hundreds of people are coming together to help a once-prized, but decimated and largely forgotten marine ecosystem. They’re busy restoring Australia’s native oyster and mussel reefs. ...9 hours ago
- Official 2023 election result final check done in a few hours, under extreme pressureThe rushed assessment, which failed to identify multiple errors in the official results, would normally take two days. ...10 hours ago
- Curious Kids: what stops meteors hitting Earth and hurting people?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sara Webb, Lecturer, Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing, Swinburne University of Technology Austin Human/Unsplash How does Earth stop meteors from hitting Earth and hurting people? –Asher, 6 years 11 months, New South Wales Alright, let’s embark on a meteor ...10 hours ago
- From pride rounds to rainbow guernseys, sports can be smarter when it comes to diversity and inclusi...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rory Mulcahy, Associate Professor of Marketing, University of the Sunshine Coast Professional sports organisations regularly promote and develop initiatives to support diversity, equity and inclusion. While sport has the power to change attitudes by sparking conversations about political issues and social ...10 hours ago
- Grand designs? Why many Australian architects say their career makes them unhappySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Naomi Stead, Director of the Design and Creative Practice Enabling Impact Platform, RMIT, RMIT University SORN340 Studio Images/Shutterstock For years there have been suggestions of widespread poor wellbeing among architects. In many ways this is not surprising. It’s well established the ...10 hours ago
- Don’t embarrass the boss
Comment: The weekly Monday post-Cabinet press conference is a useful forum for observing Christopher Luxon and how he is developing into the job of Prime Minister. He attempts to convey the impression of a man of action, speaking fast, delivering memorised National Party strategies in a connect-the-slogans kind of way, ...10 hours ago - Green MP Julie Anne Genter referred to Privileges CommitteeGerry Brownlee referred her to the Privileges Committee over complaints about her behaviour in the House. ...11 hours ago
- Six telling tidbits from the review of vote-counting errors at the 2023 election
Double votes, missing ballot boxes, tired tech and stressed staff: how tick-tallying went astray at last year’s election. Cast your mind back to November 2023, that bleary-eyed post-election period during which we waited, and waited, for a coalition deal to be hammered out. A distraction from the hotel-hopping of our ...11 hours ago - Government begins weekly reporting of school attendance figuresSchools should aim to have 94 percent of their pupils in class every day, David Seymour says. ...11 hours ago
- A ‘blistering’ ‘tour de force’: Australia loves After the Party tooInternational audiences are starting to discover what New Zealand already knew about After the Party. When After the Party aired in New Zealand last year, the response was fast and furious. In his preview for Rec Room, Duncan Greive said it was a “gritty, wrenching and highly confronting” series. By ...11 hours ago
- Iran is gaining credibility in the Muslim world and feeling emboldened. This doesn’t bode well for...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shahram Akbarzadeh, Convenor of the Middle East Studies Forum (MESF), and Acting Director the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University Iran’s leadership has been a direct beneficiary of the months-long war in Gaza. With every missile that Israel fires ...12 hours ago
- ‘Uncanny notes that plague this place’: Hagstone by Sinéad Gleeson, reviewedClaire Mabey reviews the haunting and sexy debut novel from Sinéad Gleeson, who is about to touch down in Aotearoa for a string of live events. When Irish writer Sinéad Gleeson was in Aotearoa in 2018 with her spectacular collection of essays, Constellations, she told me she was working on ...12 hours ago
- Bougainville ‘other avenues’ report ‘sensationalised’, claims MakibaPNG Post-Courier Bougainville Affairs Minister Manasseh Makiba has described the Post-Courier’s front page story yesterday regarding a meeting between Bougainville and national government leaders as “sensationalised” and without substance. The Autonomous Bougainville Government (AGB) had warned it might use “other avenues to gain its independence” should the PNG government “continue ...13 hours ago
- Government on track for increased deficit despite fall in spending – TreasuryThe government books are worsening as a fall in tax outpaces cuts to spending, leaving it on course to post a sizable deficit. ...13 hours ago
- Luxon and Mitchell weren’t mixed up, they were using girl mathsWhere some saw the worst press conference given by the government to date, Anna Rawhiti-Connell recognised girl maths game. Nicola Willis, recently exasperated by comparisons to Ruth Richardson, said she was “a bit sick of being compared with every female finance minister that’s ever been out there.” Some think that’s ...14 hours ago
- Interim Financial Statements Of The Government Of New Zealand For The Nine Months Ended 31 March 20...
The March results are reported against forecasts based on the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update 2023 (HYEFU 2023), published on 20 December 2023 and the results for the same period for the previous year. ...14 hours ago - NZ First MP Jamie Arbuckle, who wanted to keep his pay as councillor pay too, changes his mindJamie Arbuckle, the district councillor who became an MP but decided to keep getting paid for both roles, will instead donate one salary to charity. ...14 hours ago
- Jamie Arbuckle MP – Re: My Position As Marlborough District CouncillorThis is my fifth term as a Marlborough District Councillor, I am passionate about local issues, and I will continue to work hard for my community. ...14 hours ago
- Adding gender to the Human Rights Act – what’s the big deal?Adding gender to the Human Rights Act would simply make the implicit explicit. So why is it so controversial? Paul Thistoll explain. At present, Aotearoa’s 1993 Human Rights Act (HRA) includes sex, marital status, religious belief, ethical belief (meaning a lack of religious belief), colour, race, ethnicity or national origin, ...14 hours ago
- Carmel Sepuloni believed to be contestant on new season's Celebrity Treasure IslandThe new season of Celebrity Treasure Island is due to hit New Zealand screens later this year. ...15 hours ago
- The cost of being: A flatting student who’s saving for more tattoosAs part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, an 18-year-old who’s studying and working in hospo shares their approach to spending and saving. Want to be part of The Cost of Being? Fill out the questionnaire here. Gender: Transmasc Age: 18 Ethnicity: Pākehā/Māori Role: Student, ...16 hours ago
- 'He got it mixed up' – PM backs Corrections Minister despite announcement muddleThe prime minister is backing Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell, saying he "quickly clarified" a confusing media conference announcement. ...16 hours ago
- How the fast-track law could expose future NZ governments to expensive trade disputesSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jane Kelsey, Emeritus Professor of Law, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau Getty Images Resources Minister Shane Jones has reportedly asked officials for advice on whether oil and gas companies could be offered “bonds” as compensation if drilling rights offered by ...17 hours ago
- Crisis of faith: why Australian women have so little trust in religious institutionsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kate Gleeson, Associate Professor of Law, Macquarie University Shutterstock The Albanese government is weighing up the costs of delivering an election promise to protect religious people from discrimination in Commonwealth law. Such protections were relatively uncontroversial when included in state anti-discrimination ...17 hours ago
- Terminal lucidity: why do loved ones with dementia sometimes ‘come back’ before death?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yen Ying Lim, Associate Professor, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio Dementia is often described as “the long goodbye”. Although the person is still alive, dementia slowly and irreversibly chips away at their memories and the ...17 hours ago
- Making merry: how we brought Melbourne’s Merri Creek back from pollution, neglect and weedsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Judy Bush, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, The University of Melbourne Adam Calaitzis/Shutterstock I met with a friend for a walk beside Merri Creek, in inner Melbourne. She had lived in the area for a few years, and as we walked ...17 hours ago
- This group rid one Australian river of its privet problem – and strengthened community along the w...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sonia Graham, DECRA Fellow, University of Wollongong Lekali Studio/Shutterstock Privet is a popular garden hedge. It grows quickly and responds well to being pruned. But in natural areas, privet is a problem. Like 72% of weeds in Australia, privet escaped ...17 hours ago
- Australian artists only earn $23,200 a year from their art – and are key financial investors in ke...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David Throsby, Distinguished Professor of Economics, Macquarie University Arts companies and individual artists in Australia are supported by government arts agencies, philanthropists, industry bodies, private donors and patrons. However, it is frequently overlooked that a major source of support for the arts ...17 hours ago
- Experts Sign Open Letter To Legalise Drugs In New ZealandHarm Reduction Coalition Aotearoa, a new incorporated society dedicated to ending harmful drug policies, officially launched today, seeks a new fit-for-purpose drug law for Aotearoa New Zealand, rooted in science, experience and evidence. ...17 hours ago
- Politics live: Mark Mitchell, Christopher Luxon face questions after Corrections confusionThe Corrections Minister admits he "muddied the water" after he and the Prime Minister repeatedly provided incorrect information about a $1.9 billion prison spend-up. ...17 hours ago
- Messy press conference prompts correction over Corrections fundingIt took a post-post-cabinet statement to confirm that 810 new beds will be built at Waikeria, writes Stewart Sowman-Lund in this extract from The Bulletin. To receive The Bulletin in full each weekday, sign up here. ...18 hours ago
- Politics live: Mark Mitchell, Christopher Luxon face questions after confusion CorrectionsThe Prime Minister and Corrections Minister repeatedly provided incorrect information about their $1.9 billion planned prison spend-up. ...18 hours ago
- Young Star burns bright for her Fiji familyLili Tokaduadua was only 15 when she left her family in Fiji to pursue her netball dream in New Zealand. She’d been playing the sport for 10 years and was offered a netball scholarship at Auckland’s Howick College. Now, in her first year out of high school, the 19-year-old defender ...18 hours ago
- Plucky Foodstuffs crushed by the iron fist of big bicycleThe beloved local grocers lost a legal challenge to stop a new cycleway outside their store. Joel MacManus reports. In the annals of New Zealand legal history, there are a few brave people who have dared to stand up to the powers that be, no matter how bleak the odds ...20 hours ago
- Seven graphs that show where New Zealand’s food comes from… and where it goesHow what we produce and what we eat connects us to the world beyond our shores, visualised. Walking around a supermarket or vege shop, it might be obvious that everything on the shelves came from somewhere. But you might ...20 hours ago
- Q&A – avian influenza H5N1Professor Jemma Geoghegan, of the University of Otago, Otakou Whakaihu Waka, co-leads a Te Niwha project aimed at understanding how and where avian influenza could affect Aotearoa New Zealand, as the highly infectious H5N1 virus spreads globally. The virus has now spread to all continents except Oceania and was recently ...20 hours ago
- The repressive underside of Rwanda’s regimeThirty years on from Rwanda’s genocide, is guilt over the atrocities is blinding the world to the true nature of its current leadership? The post The repressive underside of Rwanda’s regime appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
- World shines a light on NZ’s human rights breachesOpinion: Last week, important recommendations for our criminal justice system were made by the international community. Every five years, each member of the United Nations has its human rights practices reviewed. This rolling event – the Universal Periodic Review – is the culmination of a government reporting on its human ...20 hours ago
- The mutant bird flu lurking on our bordersHighly pathogenic avian influenza – H5N1, or bird flu – has been flying around the world since the late 1990s. New Zealand, Australia and the Pacific Islands are so far free of it, but now it’s been discovered in mainland Antarctica and scientists say it’s only a matter of time ...20 hours ago
- Meridian Energy: no need to ‘engage’ locals ahead of fast-track applicationsFor projects of national significance, the energy giant recommends applicants need only “notify” those potentially affected The post Meridian Energy: no need to ‘engage’ locals ahead of fast-track applications appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
- How Kiwis are getting their families out of PalestineMohammed paid $70,000 to get his 10 family members into Egypt. They still don’t have a clear way into New Zealand. The post How Kiwis are getting their families out of Palestine appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
- Newsroom daily quiz, Tuesday 7 MayLoading…(function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){var ql=document.querySelectorAll('A,DIV,A[data-quiz],DIV[data-quiz]'); if(ql){if(ql.length){for(var k=0;k<ql.length;k++){ql[k].id='quiz-embed-'+k;ql[k].href="javascript:var i=document.getElementById('quiz-embed-"+k+"');try{qz.startQuiz(i)}catch(e){i.start=1;i.style.cursor='wait';i.style.opacity='0.5'};void(0);"}}};i['QP']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){(i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o),m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m)})(window,document,'script','https://take.quiz-maker.com/3012/CDN/quiz-embed-v1.js','qp'); Got a good quiz question? Send Newsroom your questions. The post Newsroom daily quiz, Tuesday 7 May appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
- On the legendary Phil Wood of Phil Wood Menswear, WestportThe following interview with auto electrician and former caver Stu Berendt, 68, of Charleston on the West Coast, came about because he was part of the caving team that found the rare and amazing fossil remains of the giant Haast eagle, the subject of one of the year’s best books, ...20 hours ago
- The economic case against conscriptionOpinion: How economists helped to end slavery and conscription in the US and elsewhere The post The economic case against conscription appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
- Can Pharmac do more with the same pot of money?A $1.8b funding boost for Pharmac still won’t enable it to buy more drugs, raising questions about the Government’s approach to the agency The post Can Pharmac do more with the same pot of money? appeared first on Newsroom. ...20 hours ago
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Capital Gains Tax Polls
https://sub-zero-politics.blogspot.com/2019/02/cgt-polls.html
The Colmar Brunton question is loaded – “Would you Support or Oppose the Capital Gains Tax if there was a Cut in Personal Income Tax ?”
That’s a bit like asking “would you like to pay less tax and someone else pay more tax’?
Even them only 46% supported “the Capital Gains Tax’ – something that is not even defined yet let alone agreed on by Government parties.
Well it was exactly the tradeoff that tax group suggested. They wanted to extend the lowest tax bracket @10.4% from its current level of 14k up to between ~22 or ~30k. That gives a tax reduction to everyone paying personal income tax.
So I wouldn’t say that the question was loaded, it is exactly what is on the table.
Meanwhile … the Feb 2019 Newshub Reid Research Poll question asked “Do you Support or Oppose the Government imposing a Capital Gains Tax”
(shades of the frequent use of Tax Burden as a deliberate rhetorical device laden with negative connotations)
(Note: client Newshub – rather than pollster Reid Research – devise the questions … as does One News rather than Colmar Brunton)
A simple question – what does Jacinda Ardern actually stand for? Can you explain that?
Sometimes you act like a political neophyte – don’t know if genuine or disingenuous but certainly silly.
What does Jacinda Ardern stand for?
All that is not grey.
Beige I meant beige!!
Have you wondered what would happen if PG joined the Labour Party?
https://www.santamargherita.net/us/product/beige-stardust/
I imagine the list is very long. The national anthem and to speak in parliament are the most obvious ones. Probably too to greet people when they come to her office.
🙂
And probably when elderly people enter the room also.
i heard that she does not stand for the No Mates Party, if that helps with your decision making?
the National Anthem.
Simple answer: read her opening address to Parliament.
it’s there in black and white.
Equity
How long before NZ’s idiotic ‘adventure tourism’ industry gets such a bad Health & Safety reputation that it goes bust?
Apart from the lost jobs, I wouldn’t be sad to see it go. Nothing more irritating than oblivious fools compelled to race across the landscape and jump off bits of it, rather than being content to merely be in it.
What a typical leftist view of the World – “I don’t like what other people want to do with their free time so I want them to stop it despite it providing tens of thousands of jobs that pay more than anything I’m
offering as an alternative.”
Gosman;
So what is the “typical rightist view of the world”?
let it be full of ‘plunder and extortion’?
Gossie left wing views of Democratic Socialists is equitable distribution of wealth and income.
Typical leftie I don’t like it when businesses kill their customers whiny bleating eh gozzer.
Evolution made the young (especially men) into risk takers . The riskiest thing most get in their day to day lives is crossing the road . That is the y of adventure tourism .
Was surprised to find out when the fatality at Tree Adventures took place a few years ago, that they don’t have to be reviewed on safety procedures to start operations.
Something I was not aware of at the time.
Killing people for trying to bring in humanitarian relief supplies. Bravo Venezuelan Socialism.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/feb/23/venezuela-border-latest-maduro-guaido
Weaponising humanitarian aid is killing people. Bravo USA, bravo.
Perhaps the Venezuelan government is getting advice from Hamas.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/feb/06/gaza-un-aid-hamas
Gosman your right wong lot will get your chance to plunder very soon now;
Global Debt is now 200% worse than when the last GFC came in 2008.
We are now on the edge of the financial cliff that is about to crumble.
https://www.businessinsider.com.au/global-debt-levels-hit-an-eye-watering-215-trillion-last-year-2017-4
World total debt now stands at $250 trillion dollars and we can never pay this amount back.
“Global debt levels soared over the past decade, with the vast majority accumulated by emerging market nations.
According to figures from the Institute of International Finance (IIF), global levels of debt held by households, governments, financials and non-financial corporates jumped by over $US70 trillion in the past decade to a record high of $US215 trillion, equating to 325% of global GDP.
Here’s what that increase looks like, looking back not only over the past decade but also to the decade before.”
Read more at;
https://www.businessinsider.com.au/global-debt-levels-hit-an-eye-watering-215-trillion-last-year-2017-4
I don’t see what this has got to do with Venezuela other than the Socialist regime was very good at running up debts.
Gosman;
You are so bloody thick!!!
Read where I said ‘Global’ not ‘Socialist’ – get some new glasses.
Yes and what has “Global” debt got to do with “Socialist” Venezuela?
Agree + 100% the guy is as thick as pig shit
You are just trying to derail the comment thread.
You’re trolling Gozzie – go and have a cup of tea.
This is Open Mike. You can’t troll here.
That is manifestly untrue, though you may dodge the ban hammer here slightly longer.
Global Debt is now 10 x times what it was in the last GFC, through Qualitative Easing and money printing by the Federal Reserve it would appear their will be another correction at some stage in the future, it may be 10 x times as big as the last GFC. Interested know how Gossie reads the situation hopefully he can advise us tomorrow ?
More propaganda from Gosman.
Any chance you can explain why the opposition keep killing black Venezuelans in their violent night protests? Or can you explain why the opposition keeps violently attacking security forces and police?
And more importantly, why do you personally oppose a democratically elected President?
Maduro has said they will have new election and has asked the opposition to participate.
Also the UN special envoy found no humanitarian crisis in Venezuela
https://chicagoalbasolidarity.files.wordpress.com/2018/08/un-report-on-venezuela-and-ecuador-alfred-de-zayas.pdf?fbclid=IwAR2V_GVz6O7hF2E403rHokyK1crm5s3tH0dnpuPg_SI2UPSNKf9h_B50fgQ
You need more proof – or you going to keep up your B.S. Gosman and spreading lies.
https://www.unspecial.org/2018/09/successful-un-mission-to-venezuela/?fbclid=IwAR0WxhfcbNMBovNGgZz5Bi-DhTv4TbtscIE4gmqVJaNJ26J5isGNygs2TCM
Maduro is not the democratically elected President of Venezuela as his election did not meet the criteria set down for a free and fair democratic election.
Are you by any chance Venezuelan or have you even been to Venezuela in the last 3 years? Just trying to establish your credibility for making such an unsubstantiated claim.
CIA and US Sympathizer ?
Gooie can’t handle straying to far outside of his intellectual comfort zone, best to keep it PG for him, might have another tantey.
Wow Gosman, all you got is lies. What he won exactly the same percentage of votes as Obama, in a system way more honest than the US one. So I’m going to say Bullshit on your statement or what normal people would call it – a lie.
Caught out on your lying again, how about you do the world a favour and stop lying.
A system way more honest than the US – Really???
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-44187838
“Under the Venezuelan constitution, the CNE is the official independent body responsible for overseeing and guaranteeing the transparency of all elections.
The opposition says it is dominated by Maduro allies. It is made up of five members. The opposition alleges that four of the five are government stooges and therefore does not trust the body to be independent.
Luis Emilio Rondón, the one CNE member which has been critical of the government, said he did not recognise the results because “Venezuelans’ freedom to vote” had not been respected.”
The one member of the so called “independent” electoral body that is not a government appointed stooge called the election not free and fair. Was there something similar in the US during the last election?
“The opposition says…”
The same ones who have staged how many coup attempts now?
I put the UN link above it also proves the elections are robust and fair. But facts are an inconvenient truth to you ah gossy.
Funny that the only one of the so called “independent” electoral body that wasn’t appointed by the Maduro regime was the only one that had a problem with the election don’t you think adam?
Do you believe electoral bodies should be regarded as independent by the political parties in the country or do you think the government of the day can appoint anyone they like without reference to the opposition? I’m just asking next time you complain about a National lead government appointing someone to say the board of RNZ.
As always just more spin and lies from you.
Why can’t you answer my simple question adam?
When you answer mine, I’ll reciprocate.
Weren’t they trespassing gozzer? You’d think they could’ve left the supplies at the border to be picked up. I guess Guiado wanted to play Santrump.
The UN and the Red Cross were also opposed to the US backed ‘humanitarian’ relief effort, seeing it as a political gimmick.
Evidently the US have been flooding Venezuela with weapons to effect some kind of Civil War ?
Cuba have traditionally been one of Venezuela’s main trading partners, Cuba supply Venezuela with Doctors in exchange for oil to get around the USA embargo on Cuba which has been in effect since 1959 when Castro & Guevera took back Cuba after it was annexed by the USA in 1900.
Wrong on so many levels.
You ducking or did you concede earlier?
In general Gosman conducts himself with a great deal more dignity and intellectual consistency than almost everyone here who berates him like children having tantrums …
Oh certainly, he’s a real sweetheart
I didn’t say you had to agree with him, or even like him …
Suppose I could be a little more concrete then. Venezuela seeks to repatriate $550 million of gold from Britian>>> https://www.reuters.com/article/us-venezuela-gold-exclusive/exclusive-venezuela-seeks-to-repatriate-550-million-of-gold-from-britain-sources-idUSKCN1NA1Q7
The forces collapsing Venezuela are coming from outside, not from with in its domestic economy. Venezuelas food production is privately owned. There is nothing that would support gooies ideoical possesion.
Never though it possible until now but I just gave less of a fuck about what gooie has to say. You didn’t catch any more feelings or reasons did you logic?
Wrong.
“In 2010, the government nationalised the farm supply business. Agropatria is now responsible for supplying farmers with everything from seeds to pesticides.”
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/amp/world-latin-america-42398814
Your own linked article states Venezuela imports 70% of it’s food yet you want to claim Maduro is responsible for the actions of private companies being dicks with Venezuelan food, you fake. What’s even more distasteful is how any one would stick up for you, let alone allow your fake news bullshit opinions to go unchallenged just pisses me off to no end (is there no one here with a set of balls?)
Since at least 2002 after the failed military coupe against Chavez, America has issued Terrorism-Related Sanctions, Drug Trafficking-Related Sanctions, Trafficking in Persons Sanctions, Targeted Sanctions Related to Antidemocratic Actions, Human Rights Violations, and Corruption, Sanctions on Holding Companies, Additional Financial Sanctions. None of which has any evidence, just concerns from Whitehouse spokespeople who’ve never set foot in Venezuela in there life’s.
Correction: The link stated Venezuela used to make 70 % of it’s own food BEFORE Chavez took over and did stupid things like nationalise the agricultural inputs businesses. Did you not read the article?
Your questions are insulting. Now you blame Chavez for foreign interests meddling in the affairs of another nation during a military coup but what ever.
Maduro is in charge.
You obviously did not read the link I posted in any depth.
“In 2010, the government nationalised the farm supply business. Agropatria is now responsible for supplying farmers with everything from seeds to pesticides.
Timing is crucial and producers say the government is not delivering.
Corn is a government staple, meaning farmers have to sell it at regulated prices
This year, Ronald did not get fertiliser in time for his corn crop, so it suffered.
The corn he does grow he has to sell at regulated prices because it is a government staple. He can only just keep the farm afloat.
“We have to go it alone to try and make things better but the situation is so bad,” he says. “The country’s financial situation and what we have now is tough.” ”
In 2010 Chavez was still in power. It was his decision to nationalise the Agricultural supply company.
This decision has contributed mightily to the collapse in farming as did the decision to impose price controls and the hyper-inflation caused by excessive government spending.
You ignore countries forign to Venezuela meddling in there affairs, organising military coups and basically being shit bags because of what the largest oil reserve nation in the world, Venezuala, may one day represents a threat to U.S interests by virtue of economic sovereignty and standing on there own to feet. Still amazed at how you could gender such love from a self professed left wing site as the Standard. Amazed and angry self proffered smart people can’t even see it.
I don’t ignore them. I discount them because by far the biggest damage to the Venezuelan economy was done by the Chavista regime. This is what YOU are ignoring in your attempts to place the blame anywhere but on left wing policies.
Blaming policy is the gospel of liars, thieves, con-artists, and imbeciles who can’t handle the fact that forign policy is beyond them.
Ignoring the effects of bad policy is the domain of the moronic.
So Chavez was elected in 1999, and was succeeded by his deputy Maduro. That’s about 20 years, and, nope, still zip nada skeletons in the closet. The numbers are just not on your side.
Gossie is a lovely little boy, he is a real little sweetie his mum tells me.
US, relief supplies come with guns.
Ask Argentina….
USA actively trying to destabilize Venezuela IMHO
Gossie have a read of this and get back to me.
http://johnpilger.com/articles/the-war-on-venezuela-is-built-on-lies?fbclid=IwAR1T6XyELZ4JQa3N5jFHPlYUjmh_31bn7bTuPKmKKQH83YXD1szRDHMYEEs
Sad to see Pilger lose whatever was left of his journalistic integrity.
Caught some more feelings? So what.
The sharp cold snap will have horticulturalists out with the smudge pots and other tools to defeat frost on crops, some not quite ready yet. Thought of you Robert and your grapes etc Hope you were ok. We too had rain last night Cinny, and were delighted after a long dry spell has sent the younger trees to autumn colour early.
No worries, Patricia – is was a bit chilly but today’s sunny and warmer. Your trees have assumed their autumn coats – yikes! Too soon, too soon! I need a long summer for our plans to come to fruition. One of our guests is a winemaker trained in Italy in an ancient style where the grapes are mushed into huge clay amphora. He’s going to teach me how, having seen the lovely big crop we have here this year 🙂
You may be shit out of luck there bobs. Short cold summer this time.
substantive regime change
https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/precip/CWlink/daily_ao_index/aao/aao_index.html
Gossie is a lovely little boy, he is a real little sweetie his mum tells me.
Arrived at work this morning after riding (mostly down) the 3.3km – not sweating. Arrived up the hill this evening panting but not sweaty…
I wish I could say it was because I was getting so fit. However it was just today’s Auckland weather.
How long before it is drinkable? Do the vines have to have age?
My father made fijoa wine, it was beautiful. He said the trees were mature so the fruit was flavoursome and sweet.
Autumn is nearly here, enjoying the cooler nights some what.
Venezuelan socialism seems to be working just fine. Perhaps our resident Venezuelan reporter or Dick Brandson will be able to explain the humanitarian crisis over there lol.
😆 Yes the exodus of people from Venezuela must just be due to their holiday season.
Yes and the fact that an average meal costs over 12,500 Bolívar Soberano and that this is tied to the USD officially at a rate of 60 to 1 must mean that Venezuelans are doing wonderfully well to afford a lunch worth over 200 US dollars.
https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/country/venezuela
http://fortune.com/2018/08/22/venezuela-redenomination-sovereign-bolivar/
200usd will buy two people an all they can eat Sunday buffet from the top hotel in Hawaii and will cover the tip as well.
Bloody USA, weaponising Aid so that it’s neighbours can eat for less than the price of weekly rent in small town
America.
Perhaps you can report back from Venezuela how the millions there can afford $200 dollar lunches? Sure you’re not getting confused with how much you spend for lunch down at the Viaduct?
You two are such numpties. The average price of a basic meal in Venezuela is not really the equivalent of 200 USD. The Bolívar Soberan’s value has been set articifically high by the dunderheaded Venezuelan regime. The ACTUAL value is probably about 1 or 2 USD however that is likely to be out of reach for the vast majority of Venezuelans as they don’t make even that amount per day as a result of the collapse of the Venezuelan economy.
Are you in Venezuela currently, Gosman?
Have you ever been to the nations which you piss all over in your diatribes?
One two;
Gosman is employed obviously to just annoy people as he/she just talks diatribe with every single post.
I now ignore his/hers rubbish trash.
Thanks cg..
Gosmans recorded archive speaks for itself…
Gossie is on the Gook Nationalist Payroll, he is a Professional RWNJ Troll IMHO ????
Gook?
Fuck you, you racist mother fucker.
yep that fucker should be banned
He/she annoys the f%#k out of me, I am sure he/she must be a faggot ?
Ever lived in a socialist nation? I notice the most starry eyed about socialism have never been or lived near a socialist nation, let alone in it.
Evidently women are more sexual in socialist societies.
Yes. I lived in New Zealand before the 80‘s.
The US should invade NZ, as we have had more kiwis leave these shores (as a percentage) than people who have left Venezuela. Just following your logic stunned mullet.
🙄 😆 🙄
More stunning logic from stunned mullet.
That was certainly true between 1999 and 2008 I suppose.
On the other hand in 2008 we had an election that got rid of the incumbent lot of idiots and the flow reversed.
The New Zealand Military accepted the result of the poll and didn’t, like the Venezuelan lot, keep the rejected junta in power.
Lucky for that wasn’t it? Otherwise we might have continued with the massive exodus and been invaded.
Gee isn’t this sort of history fun? I see why you indulge Adam.
I love your ideological wankery alwyn. You’re consistent at least.
As for the military keeping a junta in power – man you so detached from reality with that line, I’m going to suggest you put down the crack pipe. But I’m not sure you can.
If John Key was still here I am sure we would have had a US Airforce Military Base here by now.
USA have got their grubby little fingers in there somewhere.
Monsoon season in Venezuela they normally migrate down to Uruguay and Argentina for about six weeks until the rainy season finishes.
If I heard correctly on RNZ this morning that there is a suggestion that all rental properties should heave a heater to bring them up to 18C ????
Franly a silly suggestion however well intended..
The trouble people, some idiots, seem to think you can swan around in light clothing as they see in Hollywood etc movies.
I am a house owner and over the years I have double glassed a house I built which was insulated to start with … I also wasted money on a heat pump which rarely gets run as I am a firm believe in “personal’ as opposed to ‘general’ heating and from an experiment learnt that using the heat pump would reduce or cripple my life style so I keep warm with personal heating.
I guess that is only what an adult can do and difficult for children, or safe for them to be near heaters
Some ti,me ago the suggestion was 16C now its is 18C …. how high will these folk want it to go?.
I can only guess where this suggestion comes from which helps to confirm my opinion that they are hopelessly impractical and a menace to the well-being of the country.
If this government wants to improve conditions they should build and run more state houses so that everyone can have a good basic standard of accomdation and only have to ‘private rent’ if they want better for themselves and are prepared to pay for it.
Further to my last point … my son has central heating in the States where he lives these days but I remembering his wife telling me hat the price of electricity is much less there.
I do not know the details but it seems to me that Govt should reduce the price of power rather than gouging folk with current high prices.
jcuknz
Yes I lived in Canada and US for a decade and today the price of power is half the cost of NZ still.
Today we are now being robbed by extortionists called ‘power companies’ here in NZ now and it must stop!
Power Companies have to generate a good return for the investors & shareholders.
They arranged for their suited smootharsed mates in the private sector to do the gouging jucky.
It is probably not surprising really that their power is cheaper in the USA.
Did you know that 32% of US electricity is generated using Natural Gas, which is a clean method of production?
And that 30% is by coal?
And also that 20% is from Nuclear power plants?
https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/index.php?page=electricity_in_the_united_states
Now who was it that won’t let us explore for natural gas anymore?
And has demanded that any coal fired stations be shut down?
And never allowed us to have nuclear power, which is probably the greenest of all the electricity generation methods?
And you act all surprised that our electricity is more expensive than in the US?
We’re not surprised at all.
Our power assets were stolen by incompetent, venal scumbags – who can’t run the companies efficiently, and don’t want to anyway.
The coalition seems to be considering a few steps other than the lameass populism the Key kleptocracy embraced to try to stay in power at any cost. Reform of the power companies would enjoy a strong mandate, particularly if it includes significant punishment for non-performing PPPs that lie about outcomes to steal public assets.
Without that reform, rental landlords and employers will face another round of controls, because NZ’s poor cannot save for housing while being simultaneously rack rented and squeezed by utility companies.
Max Bradford told us that privatizing our Electricity Companies was going to bring down power prices, lying thieving c&%t ?
Yes, both he and the companies should face some kind of consequence for their lies, and for their professional irresponsibility.
In Korea, PPPs know they’d better deliver what they promise – or their CEOs will be in jail, and the companies will be restructured until they deliver, or sold off to make good on the penalty provisions that were part of the agreement.
Yes, it is surprising, considering most of ours is generated by hydro power stations that were fully paid for, from taxation, decades ago.
With a free energy input.
The fact we are paying twice, is because ideological idiots, gave them away in a fire sale.
And we are having to pay back the private sector borrowing, to buy them.
Formal Complaints
Formal Complaint Submitted
STANDARD 9 – ACCURACY
9e
whether the broadcaster sought and/or presented comment, clarification or input from any relevant person or organisation
STANDARD 8 – BALANCE
8c The assessment of whether a reasonable range of other perspectives has been presented includes consideration of the following, where relevant;
-whether the programme was narrowly focused on one aspect of a larger, complex debate
-the nature of the issue/whether listeners could reasonably be expected to be aware of views expressed in other coverage, including coverage in other media (eg, is it an ongoing topic of debate, such that listeners can reasonably be expected to have a broad understanding of the main perspectives on the issue)
”Venezuela: Growing condemnation of Maduro’s aid refusal’ RNZ Morning Report 25/02/2019 7.30am
This segment, does not inform the public of the following information in regards to aid/Venezuela, thereby misinforming the public through an lack of accuracy and balance in it’s reporting.
1. Both the Red Cross and the UN have declined to participate in the US/Lima Group aid programme, in large because of the politicized nature of the aid programme.
Alexandra Boivin, ICRC delegation head for the United States and Canada, said Friday that the ICRC had told U.S. officials that whatever plans “they have to help the people of Venezuela, it has to be shielded from this political conversation.”
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/red-cross-warns-u-s-about-risks-of-sending-aid-to-venezuela
https://venezuelanalysis.com/news/14316
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/red-cross-warns-u-s-about-risks-of-sending-aid-to-venezuela
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-venezuela-politics-un/un-warns-against-politicizing-humanitarian-aid-in-venezuela-idUSKCN1PV2GF
2, The fact that Aid has been delivered from other country’s was (and is) never mentioned
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/aid-wars-in-venezuela-russian-medicine-arrives-as-maduro-blocks-us-aid-141387
https://www.telesurenglish.net/news/Venezuela-Receives-933-Tons-of-Medical-Aid-From-Allies-Abroad-20190214-0025.html
Please also note that RNZ, as far as I know, have never included this information in any of it’s reporting on this subject.
Adrian I am with you there, RNZ is useless now.
The right wing are in control of RNZ now, ever since the Labour Coalition Government took over in 2018, National moved to install their own CEO to control RNZ.
That CEO has damaged the brand beyond repair now, and forced John Campbell out after that right wing CEO was installed there .
Claire Curran did much of the damage as she fucked the whole RNZ system up for good.and should have removed him from CEO immediately.
We placed an official complaint with the RNZ after Labour took it over in november 2017 and got a dismissive letter back from Curran saying she would not dismiss the National appointed CEO.
Claire Curran is public enemy number one now, for her causing our loss of free speech.
Curran f%$ked it up big time trying to play secret squirrel stuff around Wellington, she was extremely wet behind the ears.
There is a good example of CGT and how it would effect a small business owner on Kiwiblog today.
That is a good example of how a CGT would affect a hypothetical business owner with no relevance to how small business (or any business) works. It is a terrible example of real life.
How, for instance, is leaving $600K of profit in the bank over 20 years reinvesting in the business? Her accountant would advise her against this.
Yes with CGT coming in there will be a high demand for good accountants to structure affairs to avoid as much CGT as possible.
No, Farrar’s think-piece is not based on any practical example. The businessperson in the article spent nothing at all on new equipment or vehicles and because all profit went to the bank. So she finished with the same tools and van she started with 20 years earlier. That is so hard to believe that the entire premise lacks any kind of validity whatsoever.
Farrar – almost always lies by omission of pertinent facts. The resulting trash gets gobbled up by the same old morons who can’t think.
They have about the same discrimination as stray dogs eating garbage.
Yeah, ‘blog blinkers’, tasty chestnuts plucked from the whole story.
I like the toleration of a contrary view here, albeit a thick-skin required, I think it fuels interesting debate.
Quality journalism used to be about ‘This is the ‘for’ argument and this is the ‘against’ argument. Make up your own mind.
Farrar’s blog of ‘Feel this way or be necklaced’ does little to make NZ a better place to live. I think this blog does, thank-you lprent.
Sigh… Damn you Wakefield.
https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/officials-race-identify-measles-patients-contacts
I definitely do not want to enter any discussion or argument about vaccinations but it is rather amusing that an article about measles includes the statement “…there has been a rash of recent cases in the South.”
😆
Well spotted !!!!
Rash is probably prickly too.
Deputy Leader issues a direct challenge to Corbyn to improve the internal conflicts within Labour. Not pretty:
https://www.politico.eu/article/tom-watson-uk-opposition-in-crisis-deputy-leader-admits-jeremy-corbyn-anti-semitism/
They seem to be thinking the decades of their free market financial neo-liberalism has something to do with the marked state of societal decline, which is obviously a cover for rabid anti-semitism.
The other end of the street, fortified by surveiliance and private security, are more like if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, while they embark on a grand destination of hard power and expansion, & the league of nations last century didn’t exist yet their colonies do!
Just a reminder, this guy was considered one of the serious, responsible Repug contenders in 2016.
https://slate.com/news-and-politics/2019/02/marco-rubio-tweet-qaddafi-gaddafi.html?via=homepage_recirc_recent
Two more Chinese Methamphetamine Importers caught bringing in the substance into NZ in Golf Carts do we really need this breed of people in NZ ?
JK’s & National Party new imports no doubt ?
Lucky for them they weren’t caught smuggling at the Chinese end.
That’s why they bring it into NZ as they know the consequences are minimal for a very lucrative return on investment (ROI)
China is one of the biggest methamphetamine manufacturers in the world, doubt whether production and export sales are monitored very closely. They now call Tonga the “Ice Kingdom” due to the amount of methamphetamine available in Tonga, this is one of the gateways into NZ.
Tamati Tautuhi, A Thai on a business visa and an illegal Chinese immigrant.( on tv 1.)
Apologies only one Chinaman and a Thai I wonder who his mother was ?
I automatically laugh when I see a photo of soimon bridges in an article. I don’t bother reading it, because of his mind numbing “I will say anything to get elected” drivel contained within. Anyone else?
Nick Yes and Yes.
I seen this story on Stuff website at first it looks like a positive spin for The big 2 fertiliser companys Eco Maori totally agrees with the video on most points but big money has limited the positive data on Organic farming price will be a bit higher but if the whenua is worked correctly prouduction need not drop .The video do my mahi for me
Greenpeace wants to ban nitrogen fertiliser
Ka kite ano links below
https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/farming/110844298/nitrogen-fertilise-is-not-a-fundamental-part-of-nz-dairy-farming
Its a illision that New Zealand is one of the least corrupt countrys in the world if they can standby and let the cops break all my and my whanaus rights interfering in my grandchildrens futures playing games with my children getting people to play with my wife her psychologist is in on the game trying to tell her to do dumb shit for a 52 year old grandpearent because some cop from Gisborne Gisborne man has a big chip on his sholders because this savage is not stupid like he has stereotype me as has the whole justice system of the world at his disposal . Every time I go some were these clowns have a play in action WTF THE positive thing is I,m Not stupid and they are gracing Eco Maori with Mana and they are scared of me and te tangata can see with there OWN eyes that the systems are corrupt so they will keep out of the SHIT Lost his marbles try to intimadate Eco Maori he was a dirty RAT that one he got what he deserved he restated the Eco Maori man hunt framing me with his lies P.S I can thank the FOOLS FOR the Mana that I have now LOL One would be supprised at the amount of undercover cops they have spieing on KIWIS They swarm thats why they get the name sandflys
Some Eco Maori Music for the minute .P.S They won`t beable to break my Wairua.
Kia ora Newshub That’s a cheap air fair price from Air NZ I still won’t be flying.???
Wow the injustice system is hounding me and can’t even keep a REAL CRIMINAL in the country for prosecution Te muppets show.
Mike its dry all right have not seen it this dry since 2013 I feel for those farmers and horticultural croppers affected by the drought in Tasman and down south island. It would be logical to have a walkway and cycle lanes under the Auckland Harbour Bridge surely the transport agency will pay those people who have invested so much in to designing the under bridge walking way and cycling Lane.
That very unusual weather fish getting blown out of the the Wai and being caught mid air by people. The great lakes in Canada and America had a huge ice wall being blown on land I think it was about 3mtrs high it has happened before. I think that all the private contractors who lost money on the Mainzeal company going bust stinks.
Mercury Energy creaming kiwis it is shocking how high power price are its not on that private house holders are paying a higher price for power than commercial consumers.?????.
Ka kite ano
Kia James and Mulls from The Crowd Goes Wild.
Congratulat to the coach.
Nothing wrong with being nice
I try not to sound like the open Mike houling person but the Tamariki Mokopunas and Wahine issues + the sandflys one has to hold it down but when one see what I see most people will break In a few weeks as I don’t tell you everything.
That was a good catch by the dog 83 mtrs is that a record.
Eco Maori could do with a hinaki I would catch all of the buggers
Ka kite ano
That’s excellent Mana Wahine Ad boys Ka kite ano
Kia ora The AM Show yea you must have a nice spun out lieing dirt file on me and its growing everyday.
A America train stuck in the Snow for 2 days I wonder if trump can smell the Roses and change his neanderthal attitude towards climate change and stop backing carbon as it looks like he is the only one who has not figured out that the tipping point on climate change is here and now.
The Auckland council is trying to get traffic jam sorted out you sound like a blue flag wavering person. The public transport problems is being minupulated by blue flags wavers to get one of there carbon Pro m8 in the Auckland Mayor’s office. We need to get people onto buses and trains to lower our carbon footprint .
As for the cops carrying guns all the time a big Know.
You cannot even make a complaint at a police station you need to get a lawyer who cost $20.000 to be able to get justice against the cops otherwise its impossible to
lay a complaint why because they don’t want the public to know of all the dumb shit that they do to the common public you see they discrimination against the common people they intimidat they won’t go and break the rights of a person driving a $50.000 car they will get sued. The cops just want to use the fact if they get to carry guns as a intimidation device.
They are crying foul that I am damaging there reputation. But know they are the ones breaking the laws of the land breaching my whanau rights. All they have to do is FUCK OFF and leave my Whanau alone but know they are like a HALFWIT who keeps pushing a button and they get a punch blood nose they are just to stupid to learn to stop pushing that BUTTON.
A carbon tax is need Jamie yes the foolish neanderthal like duncan keep rubbishing any tax from the polluting people like him they think its OK that property owners make millions of untaxed money while the common people carry the tax burden.
Wars are started by wealthy people they still have the cups of tea together play sports but the stupid Wars they start is fought by the poor common people doesn’t matter if we die.
With your poll did the cops know the poll was run this morning polls are use to minupulate people into thinking that the majority think some thing is OK when in reality it is not a majority and most people are like SHEEP and will just follow the majority.
What idiot takes his child out of a house on to a footpath to watch a car chase and put himself and his child in danger very foolish or A SET Up to get cops guns.
Durr a house is accommodation I have said your small brain does not let you think about other people situation mark there is a housing crisis caused by national party so that people like you can cream the common people.
All the big country’s of Europe have been control by big businesses they love most people to rent off them they get the rent and capital gains to for Equality we need more people to own houses or the rich will get richer and the poor will be milked dry by the wealthy.
Ka kite ano
Here is the proff that global warming is here and now and still some neandathals keep there heads stuck in a pile of money blocking OUR True reality .
The reality is if we do not change our ways asap our grandchildren are going to have a big MESS
They were everywhere in London on the weekend. The people in short sleeves or sandals. The ones with sunglasses ostentatiously hanging from the front of their shirts or balanced on top of their heads. The beer gardens and riverside pubs of the capital were heaving; corner shops ran out of ice-cream. Outside it was 17C (62F).
Monday was another warm day, without a cloud in the sky, and in the late afternoon the light took on a magical, honey-coloured hue. It brought to mind one of those summer evenings you remember from childhood, when you’d be in the park all day and your parents let you stay out until bedtime, and you felt like you were doing something deliciously naughty just by being there.
‘I can’t help but be concerned’: early spring worries UK readers
Read more
Except it isn’t early summer: it’s February. And the entire developed world has not so much been doing something slightly naughty as systematically attacking the global ecosystem over a period of decades, and that’s how we go into this mess.
We should try to hold on to this fact as young, posh men the nation over develop a strange delusion that anyone would want to see their elbows; this is not supposed to be happening. Less than a month ago, there was video footage of extreme cold weather coming out of Chicago. Forks supported in midair by suddenly frozen noodles, water poured from kettles instantly freezing on its way to the ground: you know the sort of thing. OK, that was on the other side of the world, and was extreme and terrifying enough. But at least it was terrifying in the right direction.
On Monday, though, the temperature hit 20.3C in Ceredigion, west Wales: the highest February temperature ever recorded in Britain and the first time the thermometer had breached 20C in winter. The BBC weather account tweeted it out with a gif of the sunshine icon and the same excitable breathlessness with which Springwatch would announce it had found a new type of vole. My response contained a single word, repeated seven times. It began with F. Ka kite ano Links below
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/feb/26/terrified-warm-weather-global-warming-london
Some Eco Maori Music for the minute.
Eco Maori says people should unite across the World as the big companys here in NZ pay shit money no guarantee 40 hour week just enough money to servive but all one can afford to do is work and rest no money for leasure time we are acturly slipping backwards. When I was a young fellow any tep work no guaranted hours was payed 30 % more +holiday pay on top now that is not the case.
The big companys should be forced to pay the people who make there money a living wage.
It would be nice to know how much corporate welfare the BIG COMPANIES get in New Zealand besides family support that subserdizes there labour rates in the long run.
Cities across America should unite against big corporations
New York’s resistance to Amazon’s HQ2 is a model for a new kind of politics for cities to follow
Julia Salazar and Shaun Scott
We are from New York City and Seattle respectively. What unites us – and other major cities across the country – is that we are forced to make hard choices about equity, taxes, and jobs in the age of mega-corporations.
Seattle is the birthplace of Amazon. The city government has catered to corporations by refusing to tax them in ways that could benefit working people. When the Seattle city council repealed the Employee Head Tax in June 2018, it said goodbye to $47.5m of revenue that could have gone toward deeply affordable housing. The people of New York City, on the other hand, chose a different path. Despite a full-court press from the mayor, the governor, and business interest groups, a grassroots movement of ordinary people defeated the richest man in the world. Amazon’s lauded HQ2, which would have allowed the company to usurp millions of dollars in public funds, was rejected by the people of Queens who correctly saw the deal as the blatant giveaway that it waS
On one hand, Seattle’s actions were the latest act of political surrender to big business; on the other, activists across the country rightly took New York’s resistance as proof that a better world without capitalist extortion of public resources is possible.
There was a time when organized labor underwrote the most socio-economically equal period in American history. From the end of World War II until the mid-1970s, trade and factory workers could count on stable pay and reliable benefits in places like Seattle. The federal government played a major part in this post-war prosperity by subsidizing both urban and suburban housing, so that working families could save money and get ahead. After a corporate backlash in the 1970s, the free-market philosophy of Reagan-era America combined with widespread deindustrialization to dismantle this redistributive policy framework.
Using mass layoffs and casualized (“flexible”) labor, corporate America has kept the working class in a state of perpetual anxiety for the last four decades. The declining fortunes of working families is the result of capitalism’s war on organized labor, with the percentage of unionized workers in America dramatically decreasing from 33 percent in 1955, to 20 percent in 1983, to 10.7 percent in 2017. Meanwhile, federal housing investments have also declined sharply since since the 1970s. As professor Jason Hackworth wrote in his 2010 book The Neoliberal City, “gone are the days of the federal government providing direct subsidies to house the most acutely poor.” Stagnating wages combined with mounting costs-of-living have spelled doom for working people.
If we stand firm, major corporations will have to change how they do business. They might have to discontinue the kind of union-busting activity that Amazon has been known for. Like Microsoft, they might increase the philanthropic contributions they make towards local housing solutions. Or maybe they’ll finally pay their fair share of taxes. As any labor organizer will tell you, direct action gets the goods. When cities stand up for themselves, they stand up for each other.
We can live in cities that marshal public space and resources for the common good. To do so, we’ll have to band together. We’ll have to resist forfeiting the public trust for the private gain of a few. Ka kite ano Links below P.S Eco Maori Has these ultra wealthy people ————Ana to kai we just want a fair deal
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/feb/26/cities-america-unite-against-big-corporations