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Open mike 30/10/13

Written By: - Date published: 7:14 am, October 30th, 2013 - 88 comments
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openmike

Open mike is your post. For announcements, general discussion, whatever you choose. The usual rules of good behaviour apply (see the Policy). Step right up to the mike…

88 comments on “Open mike 30/10/13 ”

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  1. amirite 1
    30 October 2013 at 7:22 am

    Child poverty affects brain development – study
    http://tinyurl.com/kllftqx

    • greywarbler 1.1
      30 October 2013 at 5:00 pm

      Parent poverty affects the ability of teenagers with disabilities receiving some assistance when sitting exams. This is having reader-writers, extended time etc.
      Money makes the difference – they have to be assessed by a child pychologist and it costs between $400 and $900. The exam people have made it harder of recent years. I have forgotten their acronym, the ones who run the system that is wonderful, not like awful old school certificate with moveable pass marks.

      Analysed there were 4 from the lowest decile who received such help, and there were hundreds in the top. Maybe thousands. A lot. This is particularly to assess people with dyslexia apparently. On 9 to Noon today early.

  2. phillip ure 2
    30 October 2013 at 7:34 am

    ew..!

    ..len ‘down-trou’-brown just played the ‘god-card’..on tvone breakfast..

    ..(i am having a cynicism o..d.-here..!..i’d better listen to some ‘uplifting’-music..or something..)

    ..so that’s it then..

    ..’down-trou’ brown..

    ..has played his last card..

    ..and now we all wait to see if there is the ‘more’ that has been promised/threatened..

    ..but really len…the ‘god-card’..?

    ..whoar..!

    ..eh..?

    ..what’s next..?

    ..’it wasn’t my fault..god told me to down-trou..!..

    ..and ravish that maiden..

    ..in that maori-room..”

    ..eh..?

    phillip ure..

  3. vto 3
    30 October 2013 at 7:50 am

    Key really has started believing his own bullshit

    http://news.msn.co.nz/nationalnews/8746762/us-didnt-spy-on-nz-key-says

    ha ha ha ha ha funniest thing in ages

    what a clown

    • Draco T Bastard 3.1
      30 October 2013 at 9:45 am

      Mr Key said he didn’t know anything about the NSA’s activities.

      “I read the papers like everyone else, it’s a matter for the US to manage and it’s not a matter for me.”

      Actually, it is a matter for him as he’s supposed to be protecting NZers from such surveillance…

      Oh, wait, he just ensured that we could be surveilled.

  4. tricledrown 4
    30 October 2013 at 7:56 am

    Key is so confident because the GSCB is doing it for the NSA.

  5. mickysavage 5
    30 October 2013 at 7:57 am

    If you never thought that you may read a column by Bob Jones that you agree with well here is a pleasant surprise …

    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11147698

    Some highlights:

    About Len Brown and his affair:

    It will soon be forgotten but what will not is the nasty coterie from the city’s political right behind it all. Their glorified pie-cart proprietor candidate can forget future mayoral attempts.

    About John Banks and his fall from power:

    John Banks is a classic example. Once a Cabinet minister, then Auckland’s mayor, he never knew when to call it a day and seek something different. Thus his career will end in ignominy over ridiculous falsehoods. His story of not looking at what he signed is utterly plausible. On the occasions I go to the office, there’s often dozens of papers with yellow signature stickers waiting. I rip through signing the lot with no idea what they are but as they emanate from solicitors, accountants and management I rely on their appropriateness. But John’s plausible denial of not reading the form became implausible once he unnecessarily added he couldn’t recall a helicopter ride to meet the country’s most conspicuous man in a giant mansion and receive $50,000.

    About Tony Blair:

    A classic example of Powell’s adage is Tony Blair. Held in huge esteem, he destroyed it all with a blatantly dishonest dossier justifying lap-dogging the Bush buffoon into Iraq.

    Maybe Jones is trying to atone for his last train crash of a column.

    • bad12 5.1
      30 October 2013 at 1:14 pm

      Yeah MS, i usually ignore Jones but looked today and have to hand it to Bob for at least once a decade saying it like it actually is…

    • Murray Olsen 5.2
      30 October 2013 at 5:20 pm

      I blame the stopped clock syndrome. I think Bob Jones’s clock stopped about 1962, but is still right twice a day.

  6. tricledrown 6
    30 October 2013 at 8:03 am

    Huffongton post today 15 things you ought to know about the US.
    Like child birth deaths amongst the highest in the world.
    Pricr paid for medicine highest in the world.
    Education the US pays more than any other country per head of poulation with the worst out comes.

  7. vto 7
    30 October 2013 at 8:10 am

    It is astounding how people’s thinking goes out the window when house values rise …

    http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/9339557/More-think-NZs-on-the-right-track-poll

  8. BLiP 8
    30 October 2013 at 8:55 am

    ‘

    A great slice of life drama last night with the swearing in of the Auckland Council governing body. A few of the city’s knobs were there in all their finery, a smattering of corpulent CCO mandarins, family and distinguished guests, with the rest of the place packed out with us hoi polloi. Some fringe dwellers from the Mana party were there for additional entertainment, although someone should tell them the best heckling involves humour rather than bile. Their barracking gradually diminished before being completely extinguished when Len Brown fronted up to his city and was welcomed with a sustained ovation; an ovation directed to him personally but also in recognition of his family’s dignified attendance.

    Its great to see Auckland getting back to the job of being Auckland. Not very happy with the Tory influence in council and its role in such important positions. Still, gotta say, George has done some good things out South so, well, I guess, I dunno okay then, give him a go. Webster is still a worry, though. Mike Lee seems the obvious and best choice for that new “Infastructure” committee. I like how it indicates a trend towards strengthening and consolidating of reporting lines from the generally unaccountable CCOs, especially that bunch of crims over in Transport. It’s gotta be tricky handing out the various chairs, portfolios, and so on, but every one looked happy enough. Everyone except poor widdle Cameron Brewer who’s brave face on-stage was only given away with an occasionally quivering bottom lip. He now has special responsibility for exactly nothing which, I guess, is what happens when your best friends are dirty disgusting despicable people doing dirty disgusting despicable things.

    Speaking to a few of my elected representatives afterwards, I did detect an air of forgiveness. Len is on two strikes now so he’s got no choice, really, but to deliver his best effort. Brewer will, no doubt, slime his way back into some sort of favour, but he’s been tainted by the company he keeps as well as his support for the National Party’s attempt to corrupt the political process by exporting John Key’s mountain of sleaze and lies from the Beehive to the town hall. Hopefully, lessons have been learned on both sides and there’s now a realisation that time to focus on delivering positive results to all of Auckland has arrived. If the councillors and Mayor live up to the promise I heard them make last night, I’ll be happy.

    [lprent: Guest posted that. ]

    • tinfoilhat 8.1
      30 October 2013 at 9:06 am

      “If the councillors and Mayor live up to the promise I heard them make last night, I’ll be happy.”

      How naive can you be ? Len Brown is an embarrassment to himself and Auckland, nothing will change the city will still be run and controlled by over paid morons, their assorted cronies and the elites behind them pulling the strings.

      …. edit .. moderation… what naughty word did I use ?

      [lprent: Beats me. Akismet appears more vigilant than ever after the attacks of spam over past weeks and Monday’s spasm of auto-spam after they upgraded their algorithms. ]

      • BLiP 8.1.1
        30 October 2013 at 9:52 am

        ‘

        Len Brown’s foolish behaviour has had an odd but positive effect. The John Key-led National Party’s injection of sleaze in an attempt to create a divide based on faux moral outrage has, as it turns out, given Auckland a chance to demonstrate that, collectively, its people are above such adolscent prurience. Many of those who didn’t support Len, do so now, on principle. Those who continue to see the situation as an embarassment can carry on giggling behind the bike sheds, the rest of us will smile benignly and nod hello while wondering which province you came from.

        I accept that, today, Auckland is being run by bunch of overpaid white trash baldheads on the jobs-for-the-lads gravy train. However, I don’t accept that situation is a permanent one. The CCOs can be brought into line with the needs of all Aucklanders, and not just their corporate mates. In fact, if the councillors and the Mayor live up to the promise they made last night, that will happen and, as I said, I will be happy. Perhaps its a big “if” but I prefer an optimistic outlook these days. An acidic fatalistic cynicism, such as yours, is just what the elites want you to have. The whole “its useless” and “they’re all the same” and “government is just a sham” paradigm is that which enables banksters like John Key to get away with his “Solid Energy would be fine if it was a private company” spin. Buy into it, if you must, surrender your rights as a citizen in return for the false consciousness of the consumer but, really, its not going to deliver what you think it will.

        • tinfoilhat 8.1.1.1
          30 October 2013 at 2:35 pm

          No I think you’re mistaken, what the elites want to have is the current faux left right divide at a local level like Auckland or in Wellington this keeps them and their mates sitting pretty while useful idiots wave the flag for team red or team blue.

          Nothing will change until we have a strong green or mana block leading Auckland or the country.

          • McFlock 8.1.1.1.1
            30 October 2013 at 4:40 pm

            I smiled at the red/blue=pointless, green=good thing. It sounded too close to the Dickensian “Boodle and Coodle are driving the country to ruin, but Doodle is the one to lead us”…

            I reckon that at worst the tories have a tiered paradigm of defense, in descending order of preference:
            a population focused on kim kardashian singing on x-survivor
            a population focused on the sexcapades of politicians
            a population focused on which politician has the nicest hair
            a population focused on neoliberal policies
            a population focused on real-world injustice and inequality

  9. Sanctuary 9
    30 October 2013 at 9:07 am

    I see the usual suspect (Farrar, Jordan Williams) are launching yet another right wing astroturf ACT-in-another-name organisation.

    Really, how irrelevant can you be? David Farrar was part of Shipley’s appalling administration, he clings to failed 1980s dogma, and clearly learns nothing and forgets nothing, while Jordan Williams is just Simon Lusk lite, principally known for for being the failure behind the anti-MMP campaign, for which he got pleanty of money for not a lot of return.

  11. Rogue Trooper 11
    30 October 2013 at 10:25 am

    Collins on Justice in Ontario, oops, China
    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=11148305
    (according to recent BBC commentary, Justice in China is “of the Party, by the Party, for the Party”).

  12. Rogue Trooper 12
    30 October 2013 at 10:50 am

    “the goofball antics of Dr [Jonathan] Coleman”
    http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11148347
    and his lack of concern over privacy in NZ

    • ianmac 13.1
      30 October 2013 at 3:44 pm

      Thanks Matthew. An excellent easily understood set of answers and delivered with clarity and confidence. David Cunliffe for PM! Yay!

      • Bob 13.1.1
        31 October 2013 at 9:00 am

        Hmm, did you actually listen to his answers or just hear them?
        “They’ve barely broken even by the time they’ve taken the lost dividends”
        Really? $1.8B on the sale, $120M cost of sale, so $1.68B nett. Dividends for 2012 were $244.6M, if these continued (big IF based on the Labour/Greens power policy which is set to rip the arse out of power profits), they would still recieve $124.75M/year leaving $119.85M lost dividend. So yes, in 14 years time they will have barely broken even, but until that point Cunliffe sounds like an idiot.
        Secondly, “the number of Kiwis that own Meridian has gone down from 100 percent to barely 2 percent”…..really? The Government still owns 51% so that means by his maths, 100% of Kiwi’s still own Meridian, the just own half as much. This doesn’t take into account the fact that ACC, the Cullen Fund and Kiwisaver providers would all have bought into Meridian meaning an even higher share for Kiwi’s.

        If you ask me, Cunliffe come out of that looking like an uninformed idiot that can’t do basic maths!

        • Rogue Trooper 13.1.1.1
          31 October 2013 at 10:42 am

          interestingly, BBC World covered findings yesterday, that despite falling wholesale electricity prices in the UK, the powerco’s are reaming as much profit as the market can sustain.

    • Chooky 13.2
      30 October 2013 at 11:15 pm

      Matthew +1 …thanks for that ….Cunliffe is great!

      …I think the Labour Party , as well as selling itself as the socially just and caring Party, should also sell itself as the Party best for BUSINESS….because the MYTH amongst common men is still out there that the National Party is the business party and Labour is not.( This MYTH makes National seem the winner and Labour the Party for losers)

      In fact Labour and the Greens both need to emphasize how they support Business better than National does ie

      * research and development
      * intraprepreneurial start up companies
      * IT companies and the IT industry , which is rapidly becoming NZ’s biggest export earner ( even surpassing dairying)
      * export led economy
      * self-sufficiency…economics and full employment objectives

      …and how the National Party has undermined NZ businesses/entrepreneurial start ups, an export led economy….and just plundered the family silver ( sale of State Owned Assets)

      (btw…i am not trying to tell the Labour chooks how to suck eggs…merely giving my opinion based on feedback I have received regarding the MYTH of National as being the pro-business Party and Labour not)

  14. Bruce Ellis 14
    30 October 2013 at 11:07 am

    Lest we forget – finally watched “Beneath the Shroud” last night. This was a sobering reminder of the extent that our so called public servants (especially politicians and the surveillance agencies) go to when supposedly protecting our best interests. Ahmed Zaoui’s trials and tribulations were a wake up call to us all – and the likelihood of history repeating itself , or even worse, now seems even worse with the passing of the recent legislation re GCSB. This should be compulsory viewing for all Labour/Green MP’s as they work to put in place more appropriate legislation and monitoring oversight when they are elected next year.

    I continue to shake my head about New Zealand when we can’t learn from good practice from overseas, such as in the oversight of our security services (or even in lowering the blood alcohol levels for drivers.

  15. Mark 15
    30 October 2013 at 1:02 pm

    I am very surprised at the lack of scrunity of the American mining company Andarko. Their record in America is truly apalling, yet they seem to be getting a free pass from the media here in the run up to deep sea drilling starting shortly . Contrary to what Andarko say,they were found to be culpable in the Gulf of Mexico disaster. They were involved in all the decision making around the structure and the failures that lead from those decisions. Not to mention the numerous law suits they are fighting at the moment from both the US government and communities. One of these is for 25 Billion alone. And what is their liability if there is a spill here. $10.000.000 total. What a joke. This company is a disaster waiting to happen and our government has rolled out the welcome mat for them.

  16. captain hook 16
    30 October 2013 at 1:08 pm

    1. congrats to Len Brown. he makes the knuckledraggers choke on their self righteousness.
    2. what about the bees. The NZ economy is based on botanical fertility but all the idiotes are out every night sneaking around in the twilight with ttheir spray and wipe away busy killing everything.
    why isn’t someobdoy doing something about this indiscriminate poisoning of our country.
    3. Production was they key at fonterra but all the rugged individualists were so busy arguing about the $7,500 cost for botulism testing that the ignoramuses nearly sunk the whole deal.
    what the fuck is wrong with this country?

  17. rich the other 17
    30 October 2013 at 1:53 pm

    It just keeps getting better.
    Work on Transmission gully will start next year, the poisonous greens have tried to stop it as they have tried to stop most things that are beneficial to all of us.
    The remarkable thing is how labour continues to conspire with them , they are very slow learners.
    What a great job National is doing.

    [lprent: Banned for a week for stupid trolling. If you want to comment here then let the blood rush to your actual brain rather than being a simple dickhead spraying graffiti. Read the policy.

    Updated in reply to your comment: You made assertions stated as fact and your ‘explanation’ is simply stupid. FFS Winston works with National – Key even commented on it a month ago, National works with the Greens – they even had a memorandum of agreement in the last term, etc etc. Of course Labour works with the Greens. Labour has even worked with National. Coming out with that basic of parliamentary politics as if it was a revelation really does place you at the bottom of the pile in understanding politics.

    Adding an extra week to your ban for having to point out the frigging obvious. And you obviously need it to catch up on how politics works before you can become a better troll. ]

    • mikesh 17.1
      30 October 2013 at 2:19 pm

      Having acquired some dosh by foolishly selling assets, the Nats proceed to squander it on white elephants.

    • thatguynz 17.2
      30 October 2013 at 2:19 pm

      You’re a try-hard fucktard mate. How much is being spent to provide a road with a terrible ROI ratio when traffic volumes are going down?

      Your economic ignorance surprises noone..

  18. karol 18
    30 October 2013 at 2:03 pm

    So, Obama’s man for Wellington Embassy: ex baseball player, ex-Lehmann Bros, ex-Goldman Sachs…. seriously!

    A former professional baseball player and financial high flier has been nominated Ambassador to New Zealand by United States President Barack Obama.

    Mark Gilbert is a Director at Barclays Wealth, formerly Lehman Brothers, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

    The nomination was announced in a statement from the White House today.

    Gilbert replaces David Huebner, who was an Obama nominee in the president’s first term.

    Previously, Gilbert was the Senior Vice President of Goldman Sachs in Miami fand the Senior Vice President Sales Manager of Drexel Burnham Lambert in Boca Raton from 1986 to 1989.

    • Tat Loo (CV) 18.1
      30 October 2013 at 4:53 pm

      Yep, simply beggars belief. Notice how no CxO level or Board level execs from any of the big banks have been prosecuted over the GFC. The message is clear – the rules apply to us, not to them.

    • Chooky 18.2
      30 October 2013 at 5:59 pm

      @ karol…how diplomatic and subtle is this?…looks more like the the scoping advance guard of a corporate raid

  20. Paul 20
    30 October 2013 at 4:41 pm

    Why do I keep listening to Jim Mora’s programme?
    Jordan Maxwell..another special guest.

  21. Pascal's bookie 21
    30 October 2013 at 4:46 pm

    Palino is going on Campbell Live tonight, in case ya’ll wanna watch a train wreck.

    • TheContrarian 21.1
      30 October 2013 at 4:49 pm

      I’d be keen on seeing that

    • Te Reo Putake 21.2
      30 October 2013 at 7:18 pm

      It may have just been the camera angle, but that man looked awful guilty.

      ps, since when is Slater a journalist?

      • TheContrarian 21.2.1
        30 October 2013 at 7:59 pm

        I don’t know – was a pretty shit ‘interview’. To establish his looking guilty I’d rather see him front up as opposed to being stalked outside a post office

        • Pascal's bookie 21.2.1.1
          30 October 2013 at 8:52 pm

          Agree. But he’s not going to front. So you know. Makes your mind up.

          • TheContrarian 21.2.1.1.1
            30 October 2013 at 9:36 pm

            I have no personal animosity towards Americans but his voice had that whinny Woody Allen like intonation which grates my nerves.

  22. Morrissey 22
    30 October 2013 at 5:55 pm

    LEST WE FORGET
    This is why they’re persecuting him….

  23. chris73 23
    30 October 2013 at 6:46 pm

    “Tony Blair said MPs should work normal jobs before entering politics to give them a better overview of how the world works.”

    – Many may not agree with his views on a lot of things but this seems sensible

    • Morrissey 23.1
      30 October 2013 at 8:43 pm

      Many people say Tony Blair should be in prison for the rest of his life. Why are you approvingly quoting a disgusting, discredited war criminal?

    • Pascal's bookie 23.2
      30 October 2013 at 8:51 pm

      I agree with that. We tried a currency trader and that’s been pretty shit.

      • chris73 23.2.1
        30 October 2013 at 9:36 pm

        The problem is who to replace him with…Judith Collins maybe

        • TheContrarian 23.2.1.1
          30 October 2013 at 9:39 pm

          To your first statement about working normal jobs I’d say agree.

          To your second regarding Collins, that’d be all types of awful. Besides – I’d wager she’s totally unelectable.

          • Pascal's bookie 23.2.1.1.1
            30 October 2013 at 9:51 pm

            “I’d wager she’s totally unelectable.”

            I think so too. She’s been in parliament for quite a while, still can;t get through speech well without reading it. Has impulse issues.

            I’d actually back Shearer against her in a live debate, ffs.

            She’d go toxic, and do that fake laugh thing she does.

            • TheContrarian 23.2.1.1.1.1
              30 October 2013 at 9:55 pm

              I just find her very grating and, like you say, very awkward in public speaking. John Key is a smooth political operator whereas Collins is like sandpaper.

              • chris73 …
                30 October 2013 at 10:20 pm

                Ok so you don’t agree with JC (and fair enough) but you agree that politicians should have normal job experiences, I guess the question is how to bring that about because I don’t know how tto make that happen

                • Tat Loo (CV) …
                  30 October 2013 at 10:22 pm

                  A month assisting the cops, a month in the courts, a month as a teachers aid, a month as a ward orderly, a month killing possums for DOC, a month cleaning the toilets in Parliament…

                  • TheContrarian …
                    30 October 2013 at 10:26 pm

                    As someone pursuing higher office Tat, I wonder have done the jobs you have listed? From what I have ascertained your a chiropractor and have lived quite comfortably off your in-laws (I’m sorry if that is incorrect – just going from what I remember from previous posts).

                    It’s not that I don’t agree with Collins (I don’t for the record) it’s that even if I did she would unelectable as she lacks warmth and an ability to connect with people.

                  • chris73 …
                    30 October 2013 at 10:39 pm

                    Not bad, I particularly like the killing possums bit and I’d add in something like 2 years in the military as well (preferably including a deployment) and some farm work wouldn’t be a bad idea either

  24. karol 24
    30 October 2013 at 7:06 pm

    Rebecca Wright – onya!

  25. gobsmacked 25
    30 October 2013 at 7:23 pm

    Posted elsewhere, but here it is anyway: latest poll.

    http://www.roymorgan.com/findings/5269-new-zealand-voting-intention-october-2013-201310300521

    Consistent message in all polls bar the Stuff joke: Labour and the Greens ahead overall, but not by much. All to fight for next year.

    • Te Reo Putake 25.1
      30 October 2013 at 8:02 pm

      Just for fun, I put the Conservative Party in the calculator at 2.5%, with an electorate seat, instead of ACT winning Epsom.. They get 3 seats. Assuming the Maori Party hang on to their 3 seats and Dunne is still an MP, it’s a 60 all draw. Anything less and it’s a progressive Government.

  26. Debbie 26
    30 October 2013 at 8:13 pm

    Palino looked like a deer in headlights tonight. Surprised he hadn’t already rehearsed his responses a bit better?

  27. Tat Loo (CV) 27
    30 October 2013 at 8:15 pm

    Had a brief moment featured on TV One tonight, looking after a bright young patient who has some developmental and behavioural challenges.

    • karol 27.1
      30 October 2013 at 8:18 pm

      Link doesn’t work, Tat. What was the news item?

      • Tat Loo (CV) 27.1.1
        30 October 2013 at 8:24 pm

        It was the warm family friendly piece on One News tonight – featuring the journey of a young patient of mine, and his family, who have been looking in NZ and around the world for treatment which can help him.

        • karol 27.1.1.1
          30 October 2013 at 8:38 pm

          Ah. This one – cool

          I use to work with children with those kinds of difficulties.

          • Tat Loo (CV) 27.1.1.1.1
            30 October 2013 at 8:40 pm

            Yep thanks for finding it karol. I was still in practice when it screened so this is the first chance I’ve had to watch it.

            • karol 27.1.1.1.1.1
              30 October 2013 at 8:42 pm

              I had acupuncture from my national Health GP in London, for migraines. Needles in the tops of my feet. Hard to know if the migraines retreated because of that, or if they would have done so on their own – but certainly the cluster migraines and full blown migraines generally stopped for a few years after that. Rarely get them these days.

              • Tat Loo (CV) …
                30 October 2013 at 8:50 pm

                Sounds about right. Even if the acupuncture merely acted as a ‘better placebo’ it may have helped trigger the change. (One also has to ask why the pain killers weren’t as good placebos…heh) I’ve had acupuncture myself previously for various things, and I usually find it excellent in combination with chiropractic care.

      • Tat Loo (CV) 27.1.2
        30 October 2013 at 8:39 pm

        Hmmm link might work now…

  28. Penny Bright 28
    30 October 2013 at 10:35 pm

    JOHN BANKS UPDATE:

    First call for a High Court Judicial Review of District Court decision ordering John Banks to stand trial for filing a false electoral return.

    http://www.dodgyjohnhasgone.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Judgement-Judge-Gittos-16-Oct-2013.pdf

    As the Solicitor-General has taken over the private prosecution, Banks’ lawyer(s) will be facing Crown Law.

    WHEN: Thursday 31 October 2013
    WHERE: Auckland High Court, Waterloo Quadrant
    TIME: Protest banners outside High Court from 9am
    Court starts 10am.

    http://home.nzcity.co.nz/news/article.aspx?id=176090&fm=newsmain%2Cnup

    Banks to face Crown Law Office
    Solicitor-General Michael Heron’s decision to take over the case against John Banks is being praised by the man who privately prosecuted the MP.

    26 October 2013
    The man who privately prosecuted ACT leader John Banks is praising Solicitor-General Michael Heron for taking over the case.

    Retired accountant Graham McCready succeeded in the District Court and Banks has been ordered to stand trial charged with filing a false electoral return.

    Mr Heron confirmed on Friday he was taking over the case, which means Banks will face the Crown Law Office when he goes to trial – unless he succeeds with a High Court judicial review of the District Court ruling which will be heard on Thursday next week.

    As well as prosecuting the case, the Crown Law Office will defend the judicial review.

    “I’m very pleased, it’s a win not only for myself but for the New Zealand public that a private prosecution can have a defendant committed for trial and then the solicitor-general takes over and puts the full weight of the Crown behind it,” Mr McCready said on Radio New Zealand.

    Mr McCready says the judicial review could mean Banks faces further scrutiny.

    “He has the right to remain silent but if he files an affidavit, as he has probably done, then it is open to the Crown Law Office to call him in and cross-examine him on it,” he said.

    When Banks told media he was seeking a judicial review of the ruling by District Court Judge Phil Gittos, he said it contained a myriad of factual inaccuracies and flawed legal decisions.

    Banks is accused of knowingly signing a false election return for the donations he received for his 2010 Auckland mayoral bid.

    Donations from SkyCity and internet mogul Kim Dotcom were recorded as anonymous.

    The prosecution alleges Banks knew where they came from.

    NZN
    _____________________________________________________________________________

    Kind regards,

    Penny Bright

  29. rhinocrates 29
    24 November 2013 at 2:01 am

    “Omega Speedmaster price” says:

    “I create a”

    …according to google translate.

    I cannot understand what you have written. Please say more. This would help me to understand.

    http://translate.google.com/#en/ja/を創造する

    [karol: reply to spam]

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    New Zealand’s 66-year-old adoption laws are being reviewed, with public engagement beginning today.  Justice Minister Kris Faafoi said the Government is seeking views on options for change to our adoption laws and system. “The Adoption Act has remained largely the same since 1955. We need our adoption laws to reflect ...
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    12 hours ago

  • Wider roll-out of cameras on boats to support sustainability and protect marine life
    Up to 300 inshore commercial fishing vessels will be fitted with on-board cameras by 2024 as part of the Government’s commitment to protect the natural marine environment for future generations.  Minister for Oceans and Fisheries David Parker today announced the funding is now in place for the wider roll out ...
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    1 day ago

  • Plan for vaccine rollout for general population announced
    New Zealanders over 60 will be offered a vaccination from July 28 and those over 55 from August 11, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today. The rollout of the vaccine to the general population will be done in age groups as is the approach commonly used overseas, with those over ...
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    1 day ago

  • New Zealand introduces Belarus travel bans
    New Zealand has imposed travel bans on selected individuals associated with the Lukashenko regime, following ongoing concerns about election fraud and human rights abuses after the 2020 Belarus elections, Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta has announced. The ban covers more than fifty individuals, including the President and key members of ...
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    1 day ago

  • NZ economy grows driven by households, construction and business investment
    The Government’s efforts to secure the recovery have been reflected in the robust rebound of GDP figures released today which show the economy remains resilient despite the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Grant Robertson said. GDP increased 1.6 percent in the first three months of 2021. The Treasury had ...
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    1 day ago

  • Milestone 250th tower continues to improve rural connectivity
    The Government has welcomed the completion of the 250th 4G mobile tower, as part of its push for better rural connectivity. Waikato’s Wiltsdown, which is roughly 80 kilometres south of Hamilton, is home to the new tower, deployed by the Rural Connectivity Group to enable improved service to 70 homes ...
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    1 day ago

  • Quarantine Free Travel pause with Victoria to lift on Tuesday
    Following a further public health assessment of the COVID-19 outbreak in greater Melbourne, New Zealand’s Quarantine Free Travel pause with Victoria has been extended to 11.59pm on Tuesday 22 June, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says. It has been determined that the risk to public health in New Zealand continues ...
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    1 day ago

  • Prime Minister mourns passing of Dr Sir Ian Hassall
    Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is mourning the passing of Dr Sir Ian Hassall, New Zealand’s first Children’s Commissioner and lifelong champion for children and children’s health. As a paediatrician Sir Ian contributed to a major world-first cot death study that has been directly credited with reducing cot deaths in New ...
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    2 days ago

  • APEC structural reform meeting a success
    APEC ministers have agreed working together will be crucial to ensure economies recover from the impact of COVID-19. Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs David Clark, chaired the virtual APEC Structural Reform Ministerial Meeting today which revolved around the overarching theme of promoting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative and secure growth ...
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    2 days ago

  • Digital hub to boost investment in forestry
    A new website has been launched at Fieldays to support the forestry sector find the information it needs to plant, grow and manage trees, and to encourage investment across the wider industry. Forestry Minister Stuart Nash says the new Canopy website is tailored for farmers, iwi and other forestry interests, ...
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    2 days ago

  • Government continues support for rangatahi to get into employment, education and training
    Over 230 rangatahi are set to benefit from further funding through four new He Poutama Rangatahi programmes, Minister for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni announced today. “We’re continuing to secure our economic recovery from COVID by investing in opportunities for rangatahi to get into meaningful employment, education or training ...
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    2 days ago

  • NCEA subjects up for consultation
    The education sector, students, their parents, whānau and communities are invited to share their thoughts on a list of proposed NCEA subjects released today, Education Minister Chris Hipkins says. This is a significant part of the Government’s NCEA Change Programme that commenced in 2020 and will be largely implemented by ...
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    2 days ago

  • Major investment in plantain forage programme aims to improve freshwater quality
    The Government is backing a major programme investigating plantain’s potential to help farmers protect waterways and improve freshwater quality, Acting Agriculture Minister Meka Whaitiri announced at Fieldays today. The Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures (SFFF) fund is contributing $8.98 million to the $22.23 million seven-year programme, which aims to deliver ...
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    2 days ago

  • America’s Cup decision
    The Minister responsible for the America’s Cup has confirmed the joint Crown-Auckland Council offer to host the next regatta has been declined by the Board of Team New Zealand. “The exclusive period of negotiation between the Crown, Auckland Council, and Team New Zealand ends tomorrow, 17 June,” said Stuart Nash. ...
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    2 days ago

  • Food and fibres sector making significant strides towards New Zealand’s economic recovery
    The Government is backing the food and fibres sector to lead New Zealand's economic recovery from COVID-19 with targeted investments as part of its Fit for a Better World roadmap, Forestry Minister Stuart Nash said. “To drive New Zealand’s recovery, we launched the Fit for a Better World – Accelerating ...
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    3 days ago

  • Speech to He Whenua Taurikura – New Zealand’s annual hui on countering terrorism and violent...
    Check against delivery Can I begin by acknowledging the 51 shuhada, their families and the Muslim community. It is because of the atrocious violent act that was done to them which has led ultimately to this, the start of a dialogue and a conversation about how we as a nation ...
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    3 days ago

  • Cost of Government Southern Response proactive package released
    The Government has announced the proactive package for some Southern Response policyholders could cost $313 million if all those eligible apply. In December, the Minister Responsible for the Earthquake Commission, David Clark announced a proactive package for SRES claimants who settled their claims before October 2014. It trailed the judgment ...
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    3 days ago

  • New support to reduce emissions from public building and construction projects
    Government agencies are getting new support to reduce carbon emissions generated by construction of new buildings, with the release of practical guidance to shape decisions on public projects. The Ministers for Building and Construction and for Economic Development say a new Procurement Guide will help government agencies, private sector suppliers, ...
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    3 days ago

  • He Whenua Taurikura: New Zealand’s first Hui on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism
    The Prime Minister has opened New Zealand’s first hui on Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism, which is being held in Christchurch over the next two days. The hui delivers on one of the recommendations from the report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the terrorist attack on Christchurch masjidain ...
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    3 days ago

  • Speech to inaugural Countering Terrorism Hui
    E aku nui, e aku rahi, Te whaka-kanohi mai o rātou mā, Ru-ruku-tia i runga i te ngākau whakapono, Ru-ruku-tia i runga i te ngākau aroha, Waitaha, Ngāti Mamoe, Ngai Tahu, nāu rā te reo pohiri. Tena tātou katoa. Ki te kotahi te kakaho ka whati, ki te kapuia, e ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Campaign shines a light on elder abuse
    A new campaign is shining a spotlight on elder abuse, and urging people to protect older New Zealanders. Launched on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Office for Seniors’ campaign encourages friends, whānau and neighbours to look for the signs of abuse, which is often hidden in plain sight. “Research suggests ...
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    4 days ago

  • Farewelling sports administrator and philanthropist Sir Eion Edgar
    Sport and Recreation Minister Grant Robertson today expressed his sorrow at the passing of Sir Eion Edgar – a leading sports administrator and celebrated philanthropist who has made a significant impact both within and beyond the sport sector. “Sir Eion’s energy, drive and generosity has been truly immense. He leaves ...
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    4 days ago

  • Government to apologise for Dawn Raids
    The Government will make a formal apology for the wrongs committed during the Dawn Raids of the 1970’s. Between 1974 and 1976, a series of rigorous immigration enforcement policies were carried out that resulted in targeted raids on the homes of Pacific families. The raids to find, convict and deport overstayers ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Humanitarian support for Bangladesh and Myanmar
    Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta today announced that New Zealand is providing NZ $8.25 million in humanitarian assistance to support refugees and their host populations in Bangladesh and to support humanitarian need of internally displaced and conflict affected people in Myanmar.  “Nearly four years after 900,000 Rohingya crossed the border ...
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    4 days ago

  • Poroporoaki: Dame Georgina Kamiria Kirby
    E Te Kōkō Tangiwai, Te Tuhi Mareikura, Te Kākākura Pokai kua riro i a matou. He toka tū moana ākinga ā tai, ākinga ā hau, ākinga ā ngaru tūātea.  Haere atu rā ki te mūrau a te tini, ki te wenerau a te mano.  E tae koe ki ngā rire ...
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    4 days ago

  • Feedback sought on future of housing and urban development
    New Zealanders are encouraged to have their say on a long-term vision for housing and urban development to guide future work, the Housing Minister Megan Woods has announced. Consultation starts today on a Government Policy Statement on Housing and Urban Development (GPS-HUD), which will support the long-term direction of Aotearoa ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Clean car package to drive down emissions
    New rebates for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles start July 1 with up to $8,625 for new vehicles and $3,450 for used. Electric vehicle chargers now available every 75km along most state highways to give Kiwis confidence. Low Emission Transport Fund will have nearly four times the funding by 2023 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Progress towards simpler process for changing sex on birth certificates
    The Government is taking the next step to support transgender, non-binary and intersex New Zealanders, by progressing the Births, Deaths, Marriages and Relationships Registration Bill, Minister of Internal Affairs, Jan Tinetti announced today. “This Government understands that self-identification is a significant issue for transgender, non-binary and intersex New Zealanders, and ...
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    6 days ago

  • Crown speeds up engagement with takutai moana applicants
    The Crown is taking a new approach to takutai moana applications to give all applicants an opportunity to engage with the Crown and better support the Māori-Crown relationship, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Andrew Little says. Following discussions with applicant groups, the Crown has reviewed the existing takutai moana application ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment (AODT) Court opens
    The Minister of Justice, Kris Faafoi, and the Minister for Courts, Aupito William Sio, have welcomed the opening of a new Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment (AODT) Court in Hamilton. The AODT Court (Te Whare Whakapiki Wairua) addresses situations where substance abuse and offending are intertwined. “New Zealanders have told ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • EU and UK FTAs top of list for first ministerial trip since COVID-19
    Trade and Export Growth Minister Damien O’Connor today announced details of his planned visit to the United Kingdom and European Union next week, where he will hold trade and agriculture discussions to further New Zealand’s economic recovery from COVID-19. The visit will add political weight to ongoing negotiations with both the EU ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Arihia Bennett to chair Royal Commission Ministerial Advisory Group
    Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu chief executive Arihia Bennett MNZM has been appointed chair of the newly appointed Ministerial Advisory Group on the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the terrorist attack on Christchurch mosques. “Twenty-eight people from diverse backgrounds across Aotearoa have been selected for the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Speech to the New Zealand Medical Association General Practitioners' Conference, Rotorua
    Ki ngā pou maha o te whare hauora o Aotearoa, kei te mihiTo the pillars of our health system I acknowledge/thank you Ki te ope hapai hauora o roto o tēnei rūma, kei te mihi To our health force here in the room today, I acknowledge/thank you He taura tangata, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Karangahape Road upgrades are streets ahead
    The upgrades to Karangahape Road makes the iconic street more pedestrian and cycle-friendly, attractive and environmentally sustainable, Transport Minister Michael Wood and Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said at the formal celebration of the completion of the Karangahape Road Enhancements project. The project included widening footpaths supporting a better outdoor dining ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Speech to APEC business event
    E ngā tumu herenga waka, ākina ā ngaru, ākina ā tai ka whakatere ngā waka ki te whakapapa pounamu, otirā, ki Tamaki o ngā waka Tena koutou katoa… To the great leaders assembled, who guided your waka through turbulent times, challenging waters and you continue to navigate your respective waka ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pause on Quarantine Free Travel with Victoria extended
    Following an assessment of the COVID-19 outbreak in greater Melbourne, New Zealand’s Quarantine Free Travel pause with Victoria will continue for a further seven days, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins says. There are now 93 cases associated with the outbreak in greater Melbourne, spread over four clusters. Contact tracing efforts ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Supplier Diversity Aotearoa Summit: Navigate 2021
    *** Check with delivery *** A mihi to all who have contributed to making today a success – starting with you! As you have explored and navigated government procurement today you will hopefully have reflected on the journey of our people so far – and how you can make a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Pukemiro School to close
    Pukemiro Primary School near Huntly will close following years of declining roll numbers, Education Minister Chris Hipkins announced today. “I’ve consulted with the School Commissioner, and this decision acknowledges the fact that the few remaining students from last term are now settled at other nearby schools. “I want to thank ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Govt acts to protect NZers from harmful content
    New Zealanders will be better protected from harmful or illegal content as a result of work to design a modern, flexible and coherent regulatory framework, Minister of Internal Affairs Jan Tinetti announced today. New Zealand currently has a content regulatory system that is comprised of six different arrangements covering some ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

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