Professor Sharon Peacock, the director of Public Health England's National Infection Service, told MPs the kits were in the final stages of testing at a laboratory in Oxford and could be approved for mass distribution by the end of this week.
That and other anti-body tests are what will eventually kill the spread first, with antivirals and then vaccines. It will be interesting on what the max time is between exposure, initial infection and antibodies.
But the tests will be at least month away from any real levels of distribution. It takes time to scale up any kind of mass distribution. But if it works ok, then I suspect that there will be a big push to replicate it.
Yes, this is quite promising. I was just about to link to the same article.
and i like that they patentend the valves and then liberated the blue prints so everyone can print these valves. Also good on Decathlon for supplying the diving mask.
Transit is the issue. We mostly transit through Singapore and Hong Kong for most destinations. Singapore has largely shut transit. So has Hong Kong. Planes have a lot of range but it has limits and the limit is if you can land and refuel to get back again.
We are long way from anywhere apart from aussie and the islands.
Basically there was a reasonable level of warning. Some people didn't heed it.
Oh. 🙁
That’s a pity. I didn’t think about transits/fuel
Thought it was just a matter of organising between officials. It was a fast developing situation and bound to catch some of us out. Can’t help but worry for those caught overseas in places like Sri Lanka.
well he crowned himself bishop, so obviously he will have what ever doctorates he will need.
he too will kill people, just as the prosperity preachers do in the US. After all the man has bills to pay so the flock needs to hand over 10% of that sweet government money that they received in order to tide them over.
A grifter is gonna grift. Those harleys don't come cheap.
Rapper M.I.A. has revealed she is anti-vaccination and would 'choose death' over getting a coronavirus vaccination amid the ongoing pandemic.
The Paper Planes hitmaker, 44, declared her stance on vaccinations and expressed her regret at being 'made to' vaccinate her son, 11, before he started school in a series of tweets on Wednesday.
The musician, real name Mathangi Arulpragasam, wrote: 'If I have to choose the vaccine or chip I'm gonna choose death.'
""Satan has control of atmospheres unless you're a born-again, Jesus-loving, bible-believing, Holy Ghost-filled, tithe-paying believer," Bishop Tamaki said on Sunday morning."
From my contact who lives in the Coromandel: last couple of days a lot of people have arrived to stay in their holiday homes for the lock down. My contact is not bothered by this as they will not be mixing with them and are all prepared to stay at home.
Some of the arrivees live in apartments in the city, so it is understandable, but others don't and they would be better off in the city. Coromandel emergency services are already stretched and if these city-dwellers had an emergency, they'd be better off in the city.
The permanent population of the Coromandel is around 30,000. Over the summer months that population swells by around 100,000. Every year. I know when our local emergency services are busy because the siren sounds 3 – 4 times a day to call in the volunteers. Over the past week we have not heard the siren at all. There has not been a helicopter flying urgent cases out of the hospital. I visited my beach property this past week to do some preparatory maintenance before the shut down. There were far fewer people about than over the summer months. I spoke to my doctor just this week to delay my 1/2 yearly WOF, and confirm my 3 monthly prescriptions, and they are now doing consultations over the phone where possible. My friend who is a public health nurse has only had a staff of 2 for some time now and has a community to service from Te Aroha across to Waihi and north, and she is certainly run off her feet. But she has been for some time. Those moving in to holiday baches for the duration would be unlikely to be adding to her burden, if they were needing constant care I'm sure people would be remaining at their primary place of residence. Serious injuries are not handled at the Thames Base Hospital, all major surgery is immediately transferred to Hamilton after triage.
My sister-in-law, is in her seventies and at home with cold so I delivered food and panadol to her on Tuesday morning. She has sold her house, with a settlement date for next Friday, and will be moving into a unit in a Somerset retirement village in Hamilton. Tuesday afternoon, the real estate agent arrived and booted her out of the house for an hour while they did the final inspection. She drove down the road, still ill, and sat in her car until they texted her that they had left.
I had suggested that she get in touch with her lawyer and confirm that both deals are postponed until after the lockdown – however long that may be, and then make sure she is alright for the duration.
After calling this morning to see how she was going, she informs me that she has been unable to speak to her lawyer, but the office rang her to go in and sign some papers. When I asked what they were for, she said she didn't really know, and that the associate was unable to provide any information.
She also received a phone call yesterday from the retirement village, saying that they will be sending the scheduled movers to her place next Wednesday to pack and move her from Auckland to Hamilton. When I said this would not be regarded as an essential service, she said the retirement home said that they were an essential service and so the move would be permissible. I asked if she really wanted several people in her home touching all her stuff, which she would then have to unpack, and move during the lockdown. She said – not really. And so, I had to convince her that she has a right to stay where she is and advise her lawyer to postpone the settlement of both deals. My partner, who works in transport – reinforced that despite retirement homes being essential services – moving to one would be unlikely to be included in that criteria.
I am hoping she now has some confidence in dealing with this stressful situation in an already stressful time for her.
I consider she is being failed by three professional services at present. Her real estate company, her lawyer and the retirement village.
(In contrast, another experience, from a work colleague of my partner, had his lawyer ring him the same day as the Alert 4 notice to say – don’t worry, house settlement is on hold until the lockdown is over).
She is fairly independent and healthy, and the most we can do is give her some information and/or ammunition to deal with unreasonable or uncomfortable requests. Although it is very frustrating, to have your exceptional advice ignored, hah!, she is capable of making her own decisions and can make those choices and deal with the consequences.
As for the agent, they probably called her as they came over. It wouldn't occur to her to say "No, not at this time".
"New guidelines issued by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand said owners and tenants would not be able to move into or out of properties during the lock-down period and the Auckland District Law Society had recommended that all settlements be deferred until after the lock-down is lifted."
If you are ok with advocating for her, is it possible to do conference calls, between her the resthome/lawyer, with you sitting in on the call? All she would need to do is tell them she gives her consent for you to be present as your advocate.
That way she can still make decisions etc, and you could speak up if you felt something was being overlooked or distorted.
It's really cool that she is able to share with you what's happening to her, that's so awesome. Like it’s obvious she values your advice, so she might be quite open to the advocate idea.
Thanks, Cinny. She knows that we will step in for her, and I think she will ask if she gets distressed. But there is a fine line between being helpful and being overbearing – and it's one I try to keep note of. She is – in normal circumstances – very independent. Although, these are not normal times.
Hope you and your girls are doing well with your plans.
That's good to hear Molly, yay, cheers for the update, so good it's working out for her.
The girls and I are having daily games of scrabble and they are loving it, thanks 🙂 They haven't left the house since Sunday, I'm contemplating take them out for a walk, the beach is a block away, so I figure that's a walk around the block, masks on girls, anti bacterial spray in our pockets 🙂 Hope all is well for you too.
Quick update: After phone calls to numerous relatives, she has been reassured and has accepted that she is to stay put for the duration. Which has almost removed any anxiety from the situation. So, the persuasive power of a wealth of similar advice from non-legal persons has a silver lining sometimes. (The lawyer is still to return the message left for them on Tuesday. )
The second thing he says is "govt/civil service that is competent, prepared, deserving of our trust and is actually trusted"
Unfortunately we seem to have a Police Commissioner who believes he is Wyatt Earp. Did you hear him on Morning Report this morning?
I was absolutely appalled by the what he was saying. I think he should be relieved of his duties until he can demonstrate that he has read and understood what we are allowed to do.
This morning he seemed more like a character out of a B-grade Western movie. He had the “I am the law in Dodge City” approach.
For example he seemed to think no one should be out of their home and that somehow using an ATM was a forbidden activity.
What does the official website say? You can
“Access essential services, like buying groceries, or going to a bank or pharmacy.
Go to work if you work for an essential service.
Go for a walk, or exercise and enjoy nature.”
What is using an ATM except going to a bank?
Just listen to the man. https://www.rnz.co.nz/audio/player?audio_id=2018740208
I have decided to keep a copy of the material on the official website with me when I go out for my daily exercise. I have to drive there because I live on a hill in Wellington and walking, other than on the flat, is very difficult. I am, on the other hand only too willing to keep a safe distance from other people. Indeed, if a Policeman approaches me, I plan on ordering him to stay at least 2 metres away from me and I will show him id but I am not going to let him touch it. Why should I get this disease because the Police Commissioner hasn’t told his staff how to do their job properly?
[please provide a time stamp for this “For example he seemed to think no one should be out of their home and that somehow using an ATM was a forbidden activity.”. In premod until that happens – weka]
I haven't listened to him but you are correct Alwyn, basically we can do anything as long as we keep our distance, and I laughed at the keeping the police at a distance too. I'm in South Dunedin, just took kids for walk to park and back, people about, all walking around each other, fairly cheerful, friendly. Take care mate.
Hope the kids didn't use any play equipment at the park. If so, an educational chat and Police warning would be in order. And no, you can't do anything as long as you keep your distance.
You're right, I only can go for walk, go to chemist, supermarket, vets, go check on my gran, go see my designated friend, check and exercise my horse, go to my workplace, drop off and pick up my kid, that's all.
Can I see my family and friends during the lockdown?
From 11.59pm "everyone must stay at home unless they are working in essential services", Government Controller John Ombler said during yesterday's press conference.
He said that meant no socialising with people outside their households.
"The police (and the army, if needed to support the police) are empowered to order any person to stop any activity that contributes to the current emergency – essentially, spreading Covid-19 in the community. Government ministers may set aside virtually any legislative provision that becomes impracticable to apply while the epidemic is in force."
Bush did sound a bit hard-line. I guess it was a psychological play to knock people into line early on – rather than have to try and put the lid on later if people start out by flouting the rules.
You seem to cause disquiet often. I couldn't understand why you have found yourself at odds with a Policeman.
He did not hand you a baby blanket. Was that the problem ?
Why don't you get in touch with your excellent friends – Sir John Key (experienced in touching ); Sir William English (experienced in settling issues with female staff ); and Paula Bennett ( expert at releasing any, I mean any, private material ).
She maybe able to take you in person to that outstanding Simon Bridges, trained in numerous Universities both in the Northern Hemisphere and apparently has strong roots in China. Well established in Law, and nearly perfect in speech. He could get you up the Hill in Wellington . When he is not counting out his bit of National money.
Taking into account a large number of New Zealanders see "laws, rules and regulations" more like "suggestions" at best, a strong wording at the start of the lockdown sounds sensible to me. And I'm definitely not a supporter of strong authority / heavy hand etc.
It's easier to loosen things up a bit, when it works well, then tighten things up, when required.
Prosecutions for repeat offenders, can enter buildings if they think gatherings are being held…all framed with the expectation most people have complied anyway.
Seemed pretty laid back to me given it is a nationwide quarantine. Most stressy part was the interviewer pushing for answers around armed checkpoints which don't seem to be on table yet.
The Commissioner sounds pretty tame alwyn – explaining expectations, outlining the consequences and generally fulfilling the requirements of his role. Some of those at risk of idiots who want to cause an extended shut-down would rather the NZ Police adopted the tactics of the Indian Police. Beat the hell out of suspected transgressors, no explanations, questions or warnings.
I bet you still have happy memories of the great days of the Red Squad. Is the Commissioner bound by the rules the Government has laid down, as I quoted, or is he at liberty do order his troops to do anything he wants? Is he above the law?
Red Squad, unrestrained powers of a Commissioner, ordering Police to act with disregard of the law, not allowing people to use ATMs? Most of us are more concerned with reality and stopping the ravages of a pandemic and haven't too much time for those who want warm fuzzies from the backstop put there by the Government to constrain fools. Go join your kindred spirits on Bondi Beach – they'll love you there.
I, for one, am shocked and appalled at this situation. Several comments into a thread about police gone amok and Alwyn has not yet raised the spectre of the police commissioner personally performing summary executions upon people who just wanted to use an ATM. In this time of worry and tribulation we need everyone to perform at their best, including the tory pearl-clutchers. /sarc
Chill out, dude. If you're genuinely worried, get cash out at the supermarket.
Exercise isn't meant to be easy. Walk on your hill. If the baby jesus had wanted you to exercise on the flat he wouldn't have out of his bounty given you a hillside residence.
I've heard him twice today and got the Wyatt Earp feeling too. Two things calmed me.
The first was thinking about the first antenatal classes I went to years ago. I felt for the woman taking it. She had a disparate group to inform. A wide group of ages 40ish to 16ish, a couple of teachers, a lawyer, a couple of shop assistants, a 17 year old who exhibited signs of not knowing how she became pregnant. How to pitch the message to such a group?
Second was thinking about other life saving measures we have and how messages of those are received, understood and acted on. Don't drink and drive, wear a seat belt, don't use a mobile while driving don't go too fast, drive to the conditions. What could you say and how could you say it? How should you say it?
To me the tone of the Commissioner made him sound a bit of a wooden plonker. Some of what he said made it sound like he thought we were plonkers. A lot of us are.
I thought about his 'style' and while thinking it was one I didn't find ideal I guess others would find it just right. I'm sure as hell pleased I don't have his job.
I've seen a few people comment in various places that this is mostly about the risk of creating unnecessary rescue callouts, but I think there's far more to it than that.
The government messaging about this has changed a lot in the last couple of days. That's probably a direct response to so many people asking and talking about how they can find loopholes to get away with doing whatever it is they want to do, so long as [blah blah 2 metres blah blah]. It's obvious that lots of people out there still want to convince themselves that stuff they want to do is perfectly okay, according to their own interpretation. It should frighten all of us if we're letting anyone and everyone interpret this as they want to, because that undermines the whole point.
A solo tramp or going hunting or going fishing might be technically okay if it were carried out perfectly, but that sidesteps the point. Allowing exceptions to the general and simple rule creates new problems. Every time someone acts like they're getting an exception, other people expect it should also apply to them. The messaging and the enforcement become orders of magnitude harder, and confusion increases.
There's a big responsibility we all have here, to lead by example, so that other people have less ammo for rationalising their own excuses to bend rules. Trying to rationalise loopholes, undermines the whole effort of getting the population to do something consistent for extremely important reasons.
I am in the food business, so yeah, food poisoning and such is an issue in any commercial kitchen and thus we are all a bit 'special' when it comes to scrubbing down our kitchens. Its one of the professional traumas that come with making food for public consumption.
however, you can just feel free to ignore anything that is posted by me in regards to food safety and handling and only do what you feel comfortable, but it has been established that the virus is quite happily living on certain surfaces and that no matter what you bring in from the supermarket will be as safe as the food control plan implemented by the supermarket and executed by the staff. 🙂
I, too, have been round food preperation and service most my life. When the hand wash message was being hammered, I was thinking ' surely y'all do this already?'
I hope post outbreak, folk will keep washing hands thoroughly.
Speaking of sanitiser: I use a 70% methylated spirits 30% water in a spray bottle as a contact sanitiser for my home brew equipment. Would work for most surfaces.
bleach will do and i have a liter of 60% cointreau cooking alcohol that i happily donate to the cause.
I finished scrubbing my kitchen down, first with very hot soapy water and then with a 70% bleach/30% water solution.
coffee now and then on to the bathroom/toilet as these are the areas that i think will be most sensitive.
I consider myself sick and quarantined, and thus will stay home for the 4 weeks. I have enough food to cook several big boil ups that should get us through this. No fancy meals, but good wholesome home cooked food.
i did splash some money tho on potting mix and compost to supplement mine and will tomorrow spend getting my veggie patch winter ready.
And yeah, quite a few home brewers and distillers are currently making sanitizer.
You have diluted the meths by about 40% making it useless against C-19 only 72% i.e pure meths or other alcohol is strong enough apparently to do the job. This shit isn't salmonella.
On Saturday I started notifying physicians and other staff at our hospital that they have contracted COVID. Today- we called more employees in one day than I have called the last three days combined. I spoke with sick physicians, scared staff who have put themselves on the front line to save all of you. I know eventually some healthcare workers will need to be admitted to the hospital, some may need intensive care…
Our hospital is filling up. We have expanded the number of ICU's. We are expanding the number of COVID floor units to take optimal care of our patients.
We are on calls daily to increase our physician and nursing teams to care for an ever increasing number of patients, while some are "on the bench" because they have fallen ill with COVID. We are cycling teams trying to maintain staffing, preserving our staff, and trying to keep everyone healthy.
We have doctors making hard decisions about time while they are on hospital service for 2 weeks at a time. I have to decide if I will live away from my family when I am on hospital service so that I do not expose them (including one with asthma and one on immunosuppressants). Know that your healthcare providers are making many sacrifices at this time, working extremely long hours, time away from family, and worrying that it is still not going to be enough. We are running as fast as we can and we can't keep up.
I know everyone is making sacrifices and I thank you. Please shelter in place. This will last a few months. check in with your family and friends via FaceTime or Zoom meetings. Take one trip to the grocery store per week. Help us help you.
[USA] With the FDIC now playing calming piano music in the background as they urge people not to take their money out of banks, I'd say we are on the verge of a rather spectacular corporate bond market collapse or it's been happening in the background.
The bond market is significantly bigger than the sharemarket where most people's focus is directed.
When depositing money in a bank it is considered an unsecured loan to the bank. If the bank was going under due to massive corporate bond write off's why continue taking the risk? Not like those deposits are earning much in the way of interest.
A nationwide shortage of two drugs touted as possible treatments for the coronavirus is being driven in part by doctors inappropriately prescribing the medicines for family, friends and themselves, according to pharmacists and state regulators.
“It’s disgraceful, is what it is,” said Garth Reynolds, executive director of the Illinois Pharmacists Association, which started getting calls and emails Saturday from members saying they were receiving questionable prescriptions. “And completely selfish.”
Demand for chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine surged over the past several days as President Donald Trump promoted them as possible treatments for the coronavirus and online forums buzzed with excitement over a small study suggesting the combination of hydroxychloroquine and a commonly used antibiotic could be effective in treating COVID-19.
Reynolds said the Illinois Pharmacists Association has started reaching out to pharmacists and medical groups throughout the state to urge doctors, nurses and physician assistants not to write prescriptions for themselves and those close to them.
You seriously have to wonder where and how those doctors, nurses and physician assistants got their ‘qualifications’. Perhaps it was at Trump University.
A question for standardistas. My employer has just confirmed that they will be paying us the Covid 19 wage subsidy during the period we are closed for the lockdown. On top of that they also say they will be using our annual leave to top up wages/salaries to 80%. I thought that the government had said that annual leave could only be used in this way if agreed by both parties? Can anyone advise me? Can’t find any info online.
If an employee, who is required to self-isolate under Ministry of Health guidelines for COVID-19, can’t practicably work from home, then special paid leave should be considered. Other forms of paid leave can be considered (such as paid sick leave) and used by agreement between the employer and the employee. The COVID-19 Leave Payment Scheme is available to support employers to pay employees in these circumstances. All workers who left New Zealand prior to 15 March 2020 will be eligible for the COVID-19 Leave Payment Scheme.
We will see 100+ new cases a day for at least the next fortnight. The number of clusters is rising rapidly, so a lot of community transfer is only starting from now. No way will places like cafes be opening any time soon.
Looks that way. Is there a metric for dropping back to level 3? e.g. zero new cases for n consecutive days? Decline in new cases for n consecutive days? At some point it might be useful to have a metric that is science-based and to publicise it – just to stop the endless speculation that's gonna happen. But I guess they don't have a sense of what it is yet.
criteria are probably a) no further community transmission b) medical resources, masks, treatments are available c) secured the borders d) figured out tech for contact tracing & surveillance
i see the us being under one level or another for about 2 years. Until we have access to safe and fast testing, we will actually never know if one has it until that person shows symptons. Then followed by antivirals and vaccine. Hopefully.
So maybe a going up and down the 4 levels according to need. And any other flare up could and should result in lock downs again, hopefully then tho at a more local level rather then nation wide.
Apparently there was a national emergency alert sent out yesterday to mobile phones, I have 2 degrees data is disabled and I don't seem to have got it . Just curious but did others?
Got the alert with mobile data turned off. I'm on Vodafone. Phone is about 18 months old, on Android. IIRC it was at 6:30 and didn't leave anything on my phone when it finished playing. Maybe you didn't have your phone on you at that moment?
I hope you come through this with business intact, and will be a customer next time I'm in Rotorua after this is over (very fond of chocolate, serious problem for a diabetic but the dark stuff is reasonably safe as well as being the best choc).
I think when we all come out of this, we are going to see a lot more people working from home, as both employees and employers see the benefits. The company I work for has a lot of people working from home, and it seems that from what I heard, it seems to be going fine.
Having more people who can work from home, do so would have a lot of benefits. Perhaps the government should spend more money on better internet connectivity rather than roads?
A federal judge handed down a major victory for the Standing Rock Sioux tribe of North Dakota on Wednesday, ruling that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers violated the National Environmental Policy Act by approving federal permits for the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The USACE must complete a full environmental impact study of the pipeline, including full consideration of concerns presented by the Standing Rock Tribe, the judge ruled. The tribe has asked the court to ultimately shut the pipeline down.
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Looking at the headlines this morning it’s hard to feel anything other than pessimistic about the future of humanity.Note that I’m not speaking about the future of mankind, but the survival of our humanity. The values that we believe in seem to be ebbing away, by the day.Perhaps every generation ...
Swabbing mixed breed baby chicks to test for avian influenzaUh oh. Bird flu – often deadly to humans – is not only being transmitted from infected birds to dairy cows, but is now travelling between dairy cows. As of last Friday, Bloomberg News reports, there were 32 American dairy herds ...
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 ...
What is it with the mining industry? Its not enough for them to pillage the earth - they apparently can't even be bothered getting resource consent to do so: The proponent behind a major mine near the Clutha River had already been undertaking activity in the area without a ...
Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough. Greenpeace says ...
I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
Chris Trotter writes – Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
Graeme Edgeler writes – This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General,John Ryan, has joined the ...
This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah SpengemanPeople wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
Bryce Edwards writes- The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. ...
Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the RuleIf you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
Te 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 ...
Our 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. ...
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. ...
Tonight’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 ...
It 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. ...
The 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. ...
Labour 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. ...
The 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. ...
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. ...
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. ...
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 ...
Cuts 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. ...
The Green Party has joined the call for public submissions on the fast-track legislation to be extended after the Ombudsman forced the Government to release the list of organisations invited to apply just hours before submissions close. ...
New Zealand’s good work at reducing climate emissions for three years in a row will be undone by the National government’s lack of ambition and scrapping programmes that were making a difference, Labour Party climate spokesperson Megan Woods said today. ...
More essential jobs could be on the chopping block, this time Ministry of Education staff on the school lunches team are set to find out whether they're in line to lose their jobs. ...
Te Pāti Māori is disgusted at the confirmation that hundreds are set to lose their jobs at Oranga Tamariki, and the disestablishment of the Treaty Response Unit. “This act of absolute carelessness and out of touch decision making is committing tamariki to state abuse.” Said Te Pāti Māori Oranga Tamariki ...
The Government is trying to bring in a law that will allow Ministers to cut corners and kill off native species, Labour environment spokesperson Rachel Brooking said. ...
Cancelling urgently needed new Cook Strait ferries and hiking the cost of public transport for many Kiwis so that National can announce the prospect of another tunnel for Wellington is not making good choices, Labour Transport Spokesperson Tangi Utikere said. ...
A laundry list of additional costs for Tāmaki Makarau Auckland shows the Minister for the city is not delivering for the people who live there, says Labour Auckland Issues spokesperson Shanan Halbert. ...
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi, and Mema Paremata mō Tāmaki-Makaurau, Takutai Tarsh Kemp, will travel to the Gold Coast to strengthen ties with Māori in Australia next week (15-21 April). The visit, in the lead-up to the 9th Australian National Kapa haka Festival, will be an opportunity for both ...
The Green Party has today launched a step-by-step guide to help New Zealanders make their voice heard on the Government’s democracy dodging and anti-environment fast track legislation. ...
The National Government’s proposed changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will mean tenants can be turfed from their homes by landlords with little notice, Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said. ...
Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson is calling on all parties to support a common-sense change that’s great for the planet and great for consumers after her member’s bill was drawn from the ballot today. ...
A significant milestone has been reached in the fight to strike an anti-Pasifika and unfair law from the country’s books after Teanau Tuiono’s members’ bill passed its first reading. ...
New Zealand has today missed the opportunity to uphold the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, says James Shaw after his member’s bill was voted down in its first reading. ...
Today’s advice from the Climate Change Commission paints a sobering reality of the challenge we face in combating climate change, especially in light of recent Government policy announcements. ...
Minister for Disability Issues Penny Simmonds appears to have delayed a report back to Cabinet on the progress New Zealand is making against international obligations for disabled New Zealanders. ...
Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says. “Every day, ...
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges. “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service. It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
Distinguished guests - It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders. Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia. Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order. “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today. I am delighted ...
The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions. “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says. “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today. “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale. “It is good ...
The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
“China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says. Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa. The summit is co-hosted ...
A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul. “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners. “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
Asia Pacific Report From France to Australia, university pro-Palestine protests in the United States have now spread to several countries with students pitching on-campus camps. And students at Columbia and other US universities remain defiant as campuses have witnessed the biggest protests since the anti-Vietnam war and anti-apartheid eras in ...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards, Democracy Project (https://democracyproject.nz)New Zealand Government’s Fast Track legislation. Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government ...
Tara Ward talks to presenter Naomi Toilalo about the new TV show that turns food waste into a three course feast. Naomi Toilalo is standing in the warehouse at Good Neighbour Tauranga, helping unpack the two-and-a-half tonnes of rejected food that will arrive at the community support hub that day. ...
Scout is our latest Dog of the Month. This feature was offered as a reward during our What’s Eating Aotearoa PledgeMe campaign. Thank you to Scout’s human, Avril, for her support. Dog name: Scout (named after the little girl in To Kill a Mockingbird – she inherited the independent spirit ...
Megan Alatini takes us through her life in TV, including ‘terrible’ daytime TV, the class of Carol Hirschfeld and her most embarrassing TrueBliss moment. When she responded to a vague newspaper ad asking “do you have what it takes to be a popstar?” 25 years ago, Megan Alatini never guessed ...
A new exhibition in Wellington showcases the faces behind your local goods and services. Back in 1977, when I was a fine arts student at the University of Canterbury, I took a series of photographs of Christchurch shopkeepers. The photos were for a calendar – a project for my end ...
Toomaj and his resistance to tyranny through his songs have become an icon for the youth of Iran, so his sentence has hit the nation hard. Toomaj Salehi is not the first artist to pay the price for standing with the people. ...
My cousin Dylan and I spotted these big eels under the bridge that summer. We watched them lounging under the dark weed, facing into the flow of water, their mouths frozen open. Dylan and I couldn’t stop thinking about those eels. The night we went down to the creek, we ...
Newsroom, home of satire. My long-running weekly satirical series The Secret Diary has moved to Newsroom and will appear every Saturday, with Victor Billot’s wildly popular satirical Odes continuing to appear every Sunday. Diaries, Odes – while serious political columnists toil at meaningful opinions and stroke their chins to an ...
Tara Ward unravels the many nuanced layers of a cartoon about talking dogs.This is an excerpt from our weekly pop culture newsletter Rec Room. Sign up here. It’s not often an episode of a children’s cartoon has adults sobbing into their sleeves, but that’s exactly what happened this week when ...
Working as a doctor in developing countries to help communities achieve better health outcomes is nothing short of a life goal for Jessica Tater. The University of Otago medical student has her sights firmly set on joining the international humanitarian organisation Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) when she qualifies ...
There’s an island in the far reaches of Auckland’s territory, sitting off the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula, 30 minutes by air from the city or four hours on the slow boat. Aotea Great Barrier is off-grid, it has a population of fewer than a thousand people … and most ...
Asia Pacific Report An Australian author and advocate, Jim Aubrey, today led a national symbolic one minute’s silence to mark the “blood debt” owed to Papuan allies during the Second World War indigenous resistance against the invading Japanese forces. “A promise to most people is a promise,” Aubrey said in ...
Asia Pacific Report The Freedom Flotilla is ready to sail to Gaza, reports Kia Ora Gaza. All the required paperwork has been submitted to the port authority, and the cargo has been loaded and prepared for the humanitarian trip to the besieged enclave. However, organisers received word of an “administrative ...
Pacific Media Watch Palestine solidarity protesters today demonstrated at the Auckland headquarters of Television New Zealand, accusing the country’s major TV network of broadcasting “propaganda” backing Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza. About 50 protesters targeted the main entrance to the TVNZ building near Sky Tower and also picketed a side ...
Opinion by Lynley Hood. Forty years on from my 1985 Fulbright Grant, my disquiet over the war in Gaza evoked some troubling questions. The answer to my first question – What is the primary purpose of the Fulbright Programme? – was on the Fulbright NZ website. It says: US Senator, ...
The ministers responsible for green-lighting major projects need to be open about potential conflicts of interest, says Transparency International. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anastasia Powell, Professor, Family and Sexual Violence, RMIT University It has been a particularly distressing start to the year. There is little that can ease the current grief of individuals, families and communities who have needlessly lost a loved one to men’s ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Moore, Senior Research Associate, School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences, The University of Melbourne Lichen, the first described example of symbiosis.AdeJ Artventure/Shutterstock Once known only to those studying biology, the word symbiosis is now widely used. Symbiosis is the intimate ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kim Hemsley, Head, Childhood Dementia Research Group, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University Olena Ivanova/Shutterstock “Childhood” and “dementia” are two words we wish we didn’t have to use together. But sadly, around 1,400 ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Whiteford, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University The government’s Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee has just published its second report. It was set up by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth in 2022 to provide: ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The Queensland state election will be held in October. A YouGov poll for The Courier Mail, conducted April 9–17 from a sample ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amin Naeni, PhD candidate at Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, Deakin University There’s been much talk in recent months about what a possible second Donald Trump presidency in the United States could mean for Europe, Russia’s war in Ukraine, the ...
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This looks interesting
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120576908/britain-days-away-from-releasing-millions-of-coronavirus-finger-prick-tests
Professor Sharon Peacock, the director of Public Health England's National Infection Service, told MPs the kits were in the final stages of testing at a laboratory in Oxford and could be approved for mass distribution by the end of this week.
That and other anti-body tests are what will eventually kill the spread first, with antivirals and then vaccines. It will be interesting on what the max time is between exposure, initial infection and antibodies.
But the tests will be at least month away from any real levels of distribution. It takes time to scale up any kind of mass distribution. But if it works ok, then I suspect that there will be a big push to replicate it.
solution to the shortage of ventilators
https://www.newsweek.com/coronavirus-covid19-hospital-ventilator-snorkeling-mask-italy-3d-printing-isinnova-1494150?fbclid=IwAR2FXmvdgh62GJb4S2VNQiESyMJwyzvFYYY1H1jmmoBW32Q01XEA1xrXs2c
Yes, this is quite promising. I was just about to link to the same article.
and i like that they patentend the valves and then liberated the blue prints so everyone can print these valves. Also good on Decathlon for supplying the diving mask.
More inovation.
https://www.radio.cz/en/section/curraffrs/czech-researchers-develop-top-grade-respirator-for-3d-printing
https://jalopnik.com/fords-quickly-designed-powered-air-purifying-respirator-1842476673?
Wishing that NZ would do some rescue flights for those stranded overseas. It just seems like our govt has given up too early on this.
I understand the lockdowns in other countries prevent NZ planes passing through them.
Transit is the issue. We mostly transit through Singapore and Hong Kong for most destinations. Singapore has largely shut transit. So has Hong Kong. Planes have a lot of range but it has limits and the limit is if you can land and refuel to get back again.
We are long way from anywhere apart from aussie and the islands.
Basically there was a reasonable level of warning. Some people didn't heed it.
Is transit shut because they want staff to stay home?
Part of them shutting down their borders to all foreigners.
Yes, but are they still letting in flights for goods?
A plane on the tarmac that is refueling and no-one disembarks is not the same as letting in people from overseas.
Oh. 🙁
That’s a pity. I didn’t think about transits/fuel
Thought it was just a matter of organising between officials. It was a fast developing situation and bound to catch some of us out. Can’t help but worry for those caught overseas in places like Sri Lanka.
Hi A
You seem displeased with the Government. Even though you are clearly aware that Landing Rights became inaccessible due to Sovereign Border Controls.
Why do you demand the impossible from the Government. Is it part of your fealty to the wonderful National Party ?
My son just made it back from Switzerland this morning; it was looking very sketchy for a while.
He has been covid19 tested then put in quarantine in a hotel near Auckland airport.
Phew! Glad to hear he's home.
The Bish goes all Trumpian on us.
"Im not a PhD but I have the highest doctorates, in whatever you, in the word of God. Nobody bigger in the nation right now."
https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/119861726/coronavirus-brian-tamaki-blames-satanic-airborne-demons-drinking-of-bats-blood?fbclid=IwAR0lhh6avd4phXAl-BtC0qeGpM4sEGmt7eI-UlfBV7VGOsx3nyxHVwPfbfY
well he crowned himself bishop, so obviously he will have what ever doctorates he will need.
he too will kill people, just as the prosperity preachers do in the US. After all the man has bills to pay so the flock needs to hand over 10% of that sweet government money that they received in order to tide them over.
A grifter is gonna grift. Those harleys don't come cheap.
And the $1.8 million home. https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/98196636/destiny-churchs-brian-and-hannah-tamaki-move-into-15m-luxury-home
I’ll tithe you but don't tax me.
He doesn't deserve the name Brian lest that be misspelt and it believed he has one and uses it….
Anti-vaxxers say it's 5G that's to blame.
https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2020/03/a-fake-pandemic-antivaxxers-are-spreading-coronavirus-conspiracy-theories/
Pro-rhonas say the darndest things.
Rapper M.I.A. has revealed she is anti-vaccination and would 'choose death' over getting a coronavirus vaccination amid the ongoing pandemic.
The Paper Planes hitmaker, 44, declared her stance on vaccinations and expressed her regret at being 'made to' vaccinate her son, 11, before he started school in a series of tweets on Wednesday.
The musician, real name Mathangi Arulpragasam, wrote: 'If I have to choose the vaccine or chip I'm gonna choose death.'
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-8152925/M-choose-death-coronavirus-vaccination.html
Darwin Award.
""Satan has control of atmospheres unless you're a born-again, Jesus-loving, bible-believing, Holy Ghost-filled, tithe-paying believer," Bishop Tamaki said on Sunday morning."
(My bold)
From my contact who lives in the Coromandel: last couple of days a lot of people have arrived to stay in their holiday homes for the lock down. My contact is not bothered by this as they will not be mixing with them and are all prepared to stay at home.
Some of the arrivees live in apartments in the city, so it is understandable, but others don't and they would be better off in the city. Coromandel emergency services are already stretched and if these city-dwellers had an emergency, they'd be better off in the city.
The permanent population of the Coromandel is around 30,000. Over the summer months that population swells by around 100,000. Every year. I know when our local emergency services are busy because the siren sounds 3 – 4 times a day to call in the volunteers. Over the past week we have not heard the siren at all. There has not been a helicopter flying urgent cases out of the hospital. I visited my beach property this past week to do some preparatory maintenance before the shut down. There were far fewer people about than over the summer months. I spoke to my doctor just this week to delay my 1/2 yearly WOF, and confirm my 3 monthly prescriptions, and they are now doing consultations over the phone where possible. My friend who is a public health nurse has only had a staff of 2 for some time now and has a community to service from Te Aroha across to Waihi and north, and she is certainly run off her feet. But she has been for some time. Those moving in to holiday baches for the duration would be unlikely to be adding to her burden, if they were needing constant care I'm sure people would be remaining at their primary place of residence. Serious injuries are not handled at the Thames Base Hospital, all major surgery is immediately transferred to Hamilton after triage.
My sister-in-law, is in her seventies and at home with cold so I delivered food and panadol to her on Tuesday morning. She has sold her house, with a settlement date for next Friday, and will be moving into a unit in a Somerset retirement village in Hamilton. Tuesday afternoon, the real estate agent arrived and booted her out of the house for an hour while they did the final inspection. She drove down the road, still ill, and sat in her car until they texted her that they had left.
I had suggested that she get in touch with her lawyer and confirm that both deals are postponed until after the lockdown – however long that may be, and then make sure she is alright for the duration.
After calling this morning to see how she was going, she informs me that she has been unable to speak to her lawyer, but the office rang her to go in and sign some papers. When I asked what they were for, she said she didn't really know, and that the associate was unable to provide any information.
She also received a phone call yesterday from the retirement village, saying that they will be sending the scheduled movers to her place next Wednesday to pack and move her from Auckland to Hamilton. When I said this would not be regarded as an essential service, she said the retirement home said that they were an essential service and so the move would be permissible. I asked if she really wanted several people in her home touching all her stuff, which she would then have to unpack, and move during the lockdown. She said – not really. And so, I had to convince her that she has a right to stay where she is and advise her lawyer to postpone the settlement of both deals. My partner, who works in transport – reinforced that despite retirement homes being essential services – moving to one would be unlikely to be included in that criteria.
I am hoping she now has some confidence in dealing with this stressful situation in an already stressful time for her.
I consider she is being failed by three professional services at present. Her real estate company, her lawyer and the retirement village.
(In contrast, another experience, from a work colleague of my partner, had his lawyer ring him the same day as the Alert 4 notice to say – don’t worry, house settlement is on hold until the lockdown is over).
I'm betting there's a hefty chunk of patronising an old person in there too 🙁
Are the Community Law Centres open for calls? Sounds like she needs some independent legal advice.
It's her home, the agent can't come in at will, that's bullshit.
She is fairly independent and healthy, and the most we can do is give her some information and/or ammunition to deal with unreasonable or uncomfortable requests. Although it is very frustrating, to have your exceptional advice ignored, hah!, she is capable of making her own decisions and can make those choices and deal with the consequences.
As for the agent, they probably called her as they came over. It wouldn't occur to her to say "No, not at this time".
"New guidelines issued by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand said owners and tenants would not be able to move into or out of properties during the lock-down period and the Auckland District Law Society had recommended that all settlements be deferred until after the lock-down is lifted."
https://www.interest.co.nz/property/104245/real-estate-agents-self-isolation-means-no-open-homes-no-auctions-and-no-property
Thanks, pat. That kind of information is gold.
youre welcome…hope it works out
If you are ok with advocating for her, is it possible to do conference calls, between her the resthome/lawyer, with you sitting in on the call? All she would need to do is tell them she gives her consent for you to be present as your advocate.
That way she can still make decisions etc, and you could speak up if you felt something was being overlooked or distorted.
It's really cool that she is able to share with you what's happening to her, that's so awesome. Like it’s obvious she values your advice, so she might be quite open to the advocate idea.
Thanks, Cinny. She knows that we will step in for her, and I think she will ask if she gets distressed. But there is a fine line between being helpful and being overbearing – and it's one I try to keep note of. She is – in normal circumstances – very independent. Although, these are not normal times.
Hope you and your girls are doing well with your plans.
That's good to hear Molly, yay, cheers for the update, so good it's working out for her.
The girls and I are having daily games of scrabble and they are loving it, thanks 🙂 They haven't left the house since Sunday, I'm contemplating take them out for a walk, the beach is a block away, so I figure that's a walk around the block, masks on girls, anti bacterial spray in our pockets 🙂 Hope all is well for you too.
Very unsettling for her. Glad she has someone around to help.
Quick update: After phone calls to numerous relatives, she has been reassured and has accepted that she is to stay put for the duration. Which has almost removed any anxiety from the situation. So, the persuasive power of a wealth of similar advice from non-legal persons has a silver lining sometimes. (The lawyer is still to return the message left for them on Tuesday. )
https://twitter.com/keith_ng/status/1242926157508431872
The second thing he says is "govt/civil service that is competent, prepared, deserving of our trust and is actually trusted"
Unfortunately we seem to have a Police Commissioner who believes he is Wyatt Earp. Did you hear him on Morning Report this morning?
I was absolutely appalled by the what he was saying. I think he should be relieved of his duties until he can demonstrate that he has read and understood what we are allowed to do.
This morning he seemed more like a character out of a B-grade Western movie. He had the “I am the law in Dodge City” approach.
For example he seemed to think no one should be out of their home and that somehow using an ATM was a forbidden activity.
What does the official website say? You can
“Access essential services, like buying groceries, or going to a bank or pharmacy.
Go to work if you work for an essential service.
Go for a walk, or exercise and enjoy nature.”
What is using an ATM except going to a bank?
Just listen to the man.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/audio/player?audio_id=2018740208
I have decided to keep a copy of the material on the official website with me when I go out for my daily exercise. I have to drive there because I live on a hill in Wellington and walking, other than on the flat, is very difficult. I am, on the other hand only too willing to keep a safe distance from other people. Indeed, if a Policeman approaches me, I plan on ordering him to stay at least 2 metres away from me and I will show him id but I am not going to let him touch it. Why should I get this disease because the Police Commissioner hasn’t told his staff how to do their job properly?
[please provide a time stamp for this “For example he seemed to think no one should be out of their home and that somehow using an ATM was a forbidden activity.”. In premod until that happens – weka]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4YGotz_MoA
I haven't listened to him but you are correct Alwyn, basically we can do anything as long as we keep our distance, and I laughed at the keeping the police at a distance too. I'm in South Dunedin, just took kids for walk to park and back, people about, all walking around each other, fairly cheerful, friendly. Take care mate.
Hope the kids didn't use any play equipment at the park. If so, an educational chat and Police warning would be in order. And no, you can't do anything as long as you keep your distance.
You're right, I only can go for walk, go to chemist, supermarket, vets, go check on my gran, go see my designated friend, check and exercise my horse, go to my workplace, drop off and pick up my kid, that's all.
ya reckon?
/
Can I see my family and friends during the lockdown?
From 11.59pm "everyone must stay at home unless they are working in essential services", Government Controller John Ombler said during yesterday's press conference.
He said that meant no socialising with people outside their households.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12319477
yep "
"Ardern said people needed to establish what their "bubble" was for the self-isolation period and they must stick to only interacting with each other.
She said this must be a very small group and everyone must remain "faithful" to only having contact with each other." The PM. Just use common sense.
Your bubble is your household.
But hey, good luck, vector.
Not quite. But close. And bubbles mustn't intersect, otherwise they're just bigger bubbles.
"The police (and the army, if needed to support the police) are empowered to order any person to stop any activity that contributes to the current emergency – essentially, spreading Covid-19 in the community. Government ministers may set aside virtually any legislative provision that becomes impracticable to apply while the epidemic is in force."
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/412583/covid-19-state-of-national-emergency-explained
Bush did sound a bit hard-line. I guess it was a psychological play to knock people into line early on – rather than have to try and put the lid on later if people start out by flouting the rules.
It may be worth considering that in a state of emergency the authorities have neither the time nor inclination to debate your views
Of course, that was my point.
Mental note…..take the tape measure when visiting essential services in case one has interaction with the police… maybe a high viz vest too 🙂
Hi Alwyn
You seem to cause disquiet often. I couldn't understand why you have found yourself at odds with a Policeman.
He did not hand you a baby blanket. Was that the problem ?
Why don't you get in touch with your excellent friends – Sir John Key (experienced in touching ); Sir William English (experienced in settling issues with female staff ); and Paula Bennett ( expert at releasing any, I mean any, private material ).
She maybe able to take you in person to that outstanding Simon Bridges, trained in numerous Universities both in the Northern Hemisphere and apparently has strong roots in China. Well established in Law, and nearly perfect in speech. He could get you up the Hill in Wellington . When he is not counting out his bit of National money.
All the best.
?
Taking into account a large number of New Zealanders see "laws, rules and regulations" more like "suggestions" at best, a strong wording at the start of the lockdown sounds sensible to me. And I'm definitely not a supporter of strong authority / heavy hand etc.
It's easier to loosen things up a bit, when it works well, then tighten things up, when required.
Prosecutions for repeat offenders, can enter buildings if they think gatherings are being held…all framed with the expectation most people have complied anyway.
Seemed pretty laid back to me given it is a nationwide quarantine. Most stressy part was the interviewer pushing for answers around armed checkpoints which don't seem to be on table yet.
The Commissioner sounds pretty tame alwyn – explaining expectations, outlining the consequences and generally fulfilling the requirements of his role. Some of those at risk of idiots who want to cause an extended shut-down would rather the NZ Police adopted the tactics of the Indian Police. Beat the hell out of suspected transgressors, no explanations, questions or warnings.
"The Commissioner sounds pretty tame"
I bet you still have happy memories of the great days of the Red Squad. Is the Commissioner bound by the rules the Government has laid down, as I quoted, or is he at liberty do order his troops to do anything he wants? Is he above the law?
Red Squad, unrestrained powers of a Commissioner, ordering Police to act with disregard of the law, not allowing people to use ATMs? Most of us are more concerned with reality and stopping the ravages of a pandemic and haven't too much time for those who want warm fuzzies from the backstop put there by the Government to constrain fools. Go join your kindred spirits on Bondi Beach – they'll love you there.
I, for one, am shocked and appalled at this situation. Several comments into a thread about police gone amok and Alwyn has not yet raised the spectre of the police commissioner personally performing summary executions upon people who just wanted to use an ATM. In this time of worry and tribulation we need everyone to perform at their best, including the tory pearl-clutchers. /sarc
Chill out, dude. If you're genuinely worried, get cash out at the supermarket.
Exercise isn't meant to be easy. Walk on your hill. If the baby jesus had wanted you to exercise on the flat he wouldn't have out of his bounty given you a hillside residence.
I've heard him twice today and got the Wyatt Earp feeling too. Two things calmed me.
The first was thinking about the first antenatal classes I went to years ago. I felt for the woman taking it. She had a disparate group to inform. A wide group of ages 40ish to 16ish, a couple of teachers, a lawyer, a couple of shop assistants, a 17 year old who exhibited signs of not knowing how she became pregnant. How to pitch the message to such a group?
Second was thinking about other life saving measures we have and how messages of those are received, understood and acted on. Don't drink and drive, wear a seat belt, don't use a mobile while driving don't go too fast, drive to the conditions. What could you say and how could you say it? How should you say it?
To me the tone of the Commissioner made him sound a bit of a wooden plonker. Some of what he said made it sound like he thought we were plonkers. A lot of us are.
I thought about his 'style' and while thinking it was one I didn't find ideal I guess others would find it just right. I'm sure as hell pleased I don't have his job.
Here's an excellent comment from another forum:
'Murica
https://twitter.com/StevenTDennis/status/1242877676827836418
https://twitter.com/ChadPergram/status/1242865232206323715
"They worry that would create an incentive for low-wage workers to get laid off and stay laid off"
That is actually one of the things you most want a UBI implementation to do – weaken employer power.
They are talking about $200 p/w per person in NZ. Those on Super would be very diminished.
Perhaps the world will come to it's senses.
https://twitter.com/JihadiJew/status/1242878765811879937
a bit of good information about food and how to sanitize it before using it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=sjDuwc9KBps&feature=emb_logo
the smell of sanitizer will be the one thing that will define this period of time to me. That and the fear in the eyes of people.
Stay safe all of youse.
Croatian friend reckons we Kiwis are getting a taste of the fear that gripped people in Sarajevo during the Bosnian war.
Paranoia?
I am in the food business, so yeah, food poisoning and such is an issue in any commercial kitchen and thus we are all a bit 'special' when it comes to scrubbing down our kitchens. Its one of the professional traumas that come with making food for public consumption.
however, you can just feel free to ignore anything that is posted by me in regards to food safety and handling and only do what you feel comfortable, but it has been established that the virus is quite happily living on certain surfaces and that no matter what you bring in from the supermarket will be as safe as the food control plan implemented by the supermarket and executed by the staff. 🙂
I, too, have been round food preperation and service most my life. When the hand wash message was being hammered, I was thinking ' surely y'all do this already?'
I hope post outbreak, folk will keep washing hands thoroughly.
Speaking of sanitiser: I use a 70% methylated spirits 30% water in a spray bottle as a contact sanitiser for my home brew equipment. Would work for most surfaces.
bleach will do and i have a liter of 60% cointreau cooking alcohol that i happily donate to the cause.
I finished scrubbing my kitchen down, first with very hot soapy water and then with a 70% bleach/30% water solution.
coffee now and then on to the bathroom/toilet as these are the areas that i think will be most sensitive.
I consider myself sick and quarantined, and thus will stay home for the 4 weeks. I have enough food to cook several big boil ups that should get us through this. No fancy meals, but good wholesome home cooked food.
i did splash some money tho on potting mix and compost to supplement mine and will tomorrow spend getting my veggie patch winter ready.
And yeah, quite a few home brewers and distillers are currently making sanitizer.
You have diluted the meths by about 40% making it useless against C-19 only 72% i.e pure meths or other alcohol is strong enough apparently to do the job. This shit isn't salmonella.
Thanks, I will strengthen it up ie leave out the water.
The good thing is that a Defended case would have been agonising. Sentencing in May.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12319961
[Sorry Ianmac but we have a policy not to name him – MS]
Thank goodness he at last admitted his obvious guilt. That will be a small blessing to the large number of survivors and victims
Ooops. Sorry MS.
Trump on Easter:
Thank god we are not living in the States.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbPQCJtnT6o&feature=emb_logo
From a US health worker's FB.
(no link for privacy)
[USA] With the FDIC now playing calming piano music in the background as they urge people not to take their money out of banks, I'd say we are on the verge of a rather spectacular corporate bond market collapse or it's been happening in the background.
The bond market is significantly bigger than the sharemarket where most people's focus is directed.
When depositing money in a bank it is considered an unsecured loan to the bank. If the bank was going under due to massive corporate bond write off's why continue taking the risk? Not like those deposits are earning much in the way of interest.
On their way to being a failed state.
https://twitter.com/azeen/status/1242862701661036545
A nationwide shortage of two drugs touted as possible treatments for the coronavirus is being driven in part by doctors inappropriately prescribing the medicines for family, friends and themselves, according to pharmacists and state regulators.
“It’s disgraceful, is what it is,” said Garth Reynolds, executive director of the Illinois Pharmacists Association, which started getting calls and emails Saturday from members saying they were receiving questionable prescriptions. “And completely selfish.”
Demand for chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine surged over the past several days as President Donald Trump promoted them as possible treatments for the coronavirus and online forums buzzed with excitement over a small study suggesting the combination of hydroxychloroquine and a commonly used antibiotic could be effective in treating COVID-19.
Reynolds said the Illinois Pharmacists Association has started reaching out to pharmacists and medical groups throughout the state to urge doctors, nurses and physician assistants not to write prescriptions for themselves and those close to them.
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/doctors-are-hoarding-unproven-coronavirus-medicine-by-writing-prescriptions-for-themselves-and-their-families_n_5e7a13e4c5b62f90bc51ae3b
That could easily backfire. Chqlne has some serious side effects that need to be monitored.
You seriously have to wonder where and how those doctors, nurses and physician assistants got their ‘qualifications’. Perhaps it was at Trump University.
Where upon graduation they take the hypocrite oath
A question for standardistas. My employer has just confirmed that they will be paying us the Covid 19 wage subsidy during the period we are closed for the lockdown. On top of that they also say they will be using our annual leave to top up wages/salaries to 80%. I thought that the government had said that annual leave could only be used in this way if agreed by both parties? Can anyone advise me? Can’t find any info online.
Looks like you're correct.
If an employee, who is required to self-isolate under Ministry of Health guidelines for COVID-19, can’t practicably work from home, then special paid leave should be considered. Other forms of paid leave can be considered (such as paid sick leave) and used by agreement between the employer and the employee. The COVID-19 Leave Payment Scheme is available to support employers to pay employees in these circumstances. All workers who left New Zealand prior to 15 March 2020 will be eligible for the COVID-19 Leave Payment Scheme.
https://www.employment.govt.nz/about/news-and-updates/workplace-response-coronavirus-covid-19/
Racist stupidity abounds.
https://twitter.com/John_Hudson/status/1242917105256800258
https://twitter.com/bad_takes/status/1242911229267660802
Everything has to go through the MAGA disinformation machine. Equally, the 'Spanish flu' could be renamed to the "Kansas Virus"?
Probably too early, but how do people see the lockdown coming off/
I can't see it being overnight, possibly down to level 3,then 2, the 1 over say 2-4 weeks?
Scuttlebutt says >12 weeks.
It will be extended after 4 weeks, guaranteed.
We will see 100+ new cases a day for at least the next fortnight. The number of clusters is rising rapidly, so a lot of community transfer is only starting from now. No way will places like cafes be opening any time soon.
This is a long, hard road.
Yeah an extension is a definite possibility. Looks like it's gotten away on us within some communities, rather than just travellers.
Looks that way. Is there a metric for dropping back to level 3? e.g. zero new cases for n consecutive days? Decline in new cases for n consecutive days? At some point it might be useful to have a metric that is science-based and to publicise it – just to stop the endless speculation that's gonna happen. But I guess they don't have a sense of what it is yet.
criteria are probably a) no further community transmission b) medical resources, masks, treatments are available c) secured the borders d) figured out tech for contact tracing & surveillance
pretty Orwellian
i see the us being under one level or another for about 2 years. Until we have access to safe and fast testing, we will actually never know if one has it until that person shows symptons. Then followed by antivirals and vaccine. Hopefully.
So maybe a going up and down the 4 levels according to need. And any other flare up could and should result in lock downs again, hopefully then tho at a more local level rather then nation wide.
Up to date info here on all NZ cases, locations and flight numbers of any aircraft they may have been on lately
This is excellent that the government is sharing such.
https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-current-cases
Thanks for that link – excellent info there 🙂
Some good advice for all.
Heh. Since we've all got time on our hands …
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyIzhRvtIJ0
Internet access and broadband speed is a nightmare (hit and miss) at the moment 🙁
Internet's good, essential service working from home, but the phone is damn near unusable.
http://vodafonespeedtest.speedtestcustom.com/result/96df5a30-6efe-11ea-be9c-21fae30469d3
ADSL here and it is even more patchy than usual.
PM to speak at 3 pm, usual channels.
good announcment here for emergency and essential staff.
Countdown has set up shopping times for these groups of people
https://www.facebook.com/
Morning 8 – 9
Evening 8 – 9
please pass this on if you know people that fall into this category.
New World will also have dedicated hours for emergency staff – please check with them if this were to apply to you.
Apparently there was a national emergency alert sent out yesterday to mobile phones, I have 2 degrees data is disabled and I don't seem to have got it . Just curious but did others?
I didn't but I have an older phone and never get them. You can look online to see if your phone will receive them.
Don't think it's data dependent. Some people get those alerts even without a sim card (no idea how that works).
Got the alert with mobile data turned off. I'm on Vodafone. Phone is about 18 months old, on Android. IIRC it was at 6:30 and didn't leave anything on my phone when it finished playing. Maybe you didn't have your phone on you at that moment?
I'm on 2 degrees Prepay and I didn't get it either.
Thanks every one. No I wasn't near my phone at the time – nothing unusual in that for me.
Seems a waste if it just played and then vanished – lots of people then maybe didn't get it. and it is a national emergency alert.
Unfortunately all those special offers and texts reminding me to top up never seem to dematerialise.
Hi RBCV, I am with 2 degrees and a huawei and didn't receive txt.
The other two in the house on Apple and spark did.
I think it may depend on whether or not your phone can do 4g
This might explain why you didn't get it
https://getready.govt.nz/prepared/stay-informed/emergency-mobile-alert/ema-faqs/
The sociopathic POS doesn’t give a rats about the lives of ordinary people because it's all about him.
A pandemic is detrimental to his election success.
https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1242905328209080331
This Marist College case shows the ease of speed of this virus.
We are in the same integrated school community and at staff level my kids' schools have significant contact with Marist College.
Just days ago one staff member having travel overseas was diagnosed with Covid-19, now there are 11 cases.
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-ministry-of-health-confirms-78-new-cases-in-new-zealand.html
https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-marist-college-confirms-11-cases-of-covid-19.html
Some day …………
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U97mKbD6DwI
The Spinoof cheesey or what
good all the same
This could be a game changer
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/WO2003/S00125/queensland-researchers-find-coronavirus-cure.htm
If we're running out of cigarettes then it's an essential service.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/120561976/coronavirus-work-continues-at-cigarette-factory-through-lockdown
Is ANZ bank site down?
Can't open it.
Can log on now!!!
Yours truly.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/news/video.cfm?c_id=1501138&gal_cid=1501138&gallery_id=218398
Interview with the local herald crew and small businesses in Rotorua.
funnily enough the one person not coming through my doors was the Labour Candidate from Rotorua. 🙂
I hope you come through this with business intact, and will be a customer next time I'm in Rotorua after this is over (very fond of chocolate, serious problem for a diabetic but the dark stuff is reasonably safe as well as being the best choc).
as they say, you can't kill weed, and i consider myself weed.
Identify yourself when you come and i find you a nice 80% or maybe that little 70% Ecuadorian single origine. ….one of my faves.
Uganda has the best Covid 19 PSA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKY9AKuJNqI
awesome.
I think when we all come out of this, we are going to see a lot more people working from home, as both employees and employers see the benefits. The company I work for has a lot of people working from home, and it seems that from what I heard, it seems to be going fine.
Having more people who can work from home, do so would have a lot of benefits. Perhaps the government should spend more money on better internet connectivity rather than roads?
The other thing that would be good to see post Covid is a patient/nurse ratio implemented and adhered to.
Big win.
A federal judge handed down a major victory for the Standing Rock Sioux tribe of North Dakota on Wednesday, ruling that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers violated the National Environmental Policy Act by approving federal permits for the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The USACE must complete a full environmental impact study of the pipeline, including full consideration of concerns presented by the Standing Rock Tribe, the judge ruled. The tribe has asked the court to ultimately shut the pipeline down.
https://www.commondreams.org/news/2020/03/25/huge-victory-standing-rock-sioux-tribe-federal-court-rules-dapl-permits-violated-law?
Industrial scale suffering ahoy.
https://twitter.com/sunny_hundal/status/1242856226943381504
The wealthiest nation on the planet.
/
https://twitter.com/SarahDadouch/status/1242877475547418625