The next 2 to 5 years could (will) prove to be tumultuous ones for the globe and New Zealand: a series of crises will wrack the very foundations of civilised society (and of all life) – the on-going pandemic, a long-overdue economic meltdown and the worst of them all, climate change on an escalating scale.
No country will deal with all three successfully, and that includes this isolated little ‘hermit kingdom,’ but I believe that at least, Jacinda Ardern and this Labour government will attempt to govern for all NZers when the shit hits the fan.
Like all governments ours will attempt to do too little, too late; that’s just the nature of the political beast. Radical change, really radical change is needed, but such change would not be supported by the good old ‘general public’ until the crises bite them on their collective arses, and then they’ll complaint ‘the government should have done something.
But at least I think Labour will try to act in the interests of all NZers. Andrew Beecroft, speaking on NatRadio the other morning said Michael Joseph Savage described the creation of the welfare state as ‘applied Christianity.’ The Natz opposition of the time labelled it ‘applied lunacy,’ and that just about sums up the difference between the two general political philosophies; the left will generally act in the interests of the collective good, the right for ‘individual freedoms.’ The ‘dancing Cossacks,’ the mother of all budgets, tax cuts for the rich are just some examples of the sectional interests of the right.
Things are going to go pretty pear-shaped in the near future (and don’t hold your breath over COP-26) and it won’t be pleasant, but with the Natz and Act in power it would have been an absolute fucking disaster.
A good practical example of this is the Three Waters legislation. We have a water crisis in this country which can’t be fixed by piecemeal uncoordinated changes by indebted local councils. Labour and Nania recognise this and have proposed major reforms (in the interests of all NZers). The rights’ response: government theft of our assets, which is a pretty meaningless thing to say. Remember Nick Smith and ‘wadeable rivers?’ Fw Luxon said the Natz would repeal any changes Labour makes – then what? Wait until we have little drinkable water left in this country which only the rich can afford?
The future looks dark indeed, but with a slightly left leaning, kind government, things might just be bearable in this country. At least, that is what I hope!
Nice try TV, it would be great if your scenario plays out.
I fear that minimal, middle-of-the-road compromises just ain't gonna cut it for dealing with what is about to confront our neolib society on so many fronts. We are in for an unpredictable and probably unprecedented harsh ride.
Climate change, economic instability and living with an endemic virus, just one of these requires a huge budget and sensible leadership.
I would also add providing affordable housing and having a health system which meets the needs of the population. People need to learn how to become more self sufficient as well.
Perhaps. But the outbreak has to peak at some point, and there are only so many unvaccinated muppets in Auckland for this disease to burn through.
(Auckland does not have general community transmission. This is an outbreak running through a very specific subset of society, one that seems to only have minor leakage into the rest of Auckland).
I realise I am a complete outlyer. And am probably talking pants, but have never been able to understand why instead of shutting down the entire country to shield the vulnerable who might get it, we aren't doing it the other way round and just shielding the vulnerable and just getting on with shit.
I just think inconvenience to as fewer people as possible is better than everyone.
I don't even live in Auckland and am living in relative normality in Welly.
Just found it odd you would close off a whole city to shield vulnerable people, rather than just shielding the vulnerable.
Wouldn't be South Auckland btw. It would be those that are older with existing health conditions. The rest just get it and get over it in the vast majority.
Yeas I realise the odd healthy person has died. They also get hit by trucks and die of cancer
It's not South Auckland, and hasn't been for some time. The geographical epicentre is West Auckland, and as noted, it's not a matter of general transmission. If it were, there would be far more Pasifika cases.
The point overlooks that we're not taking geography here. There is no area of Auckland that matches the outbreak – Auckland is 11% Maori, not 45-55% Maori, and the places that have more Maori than Pasifika (as this outbreak does) tend to have very few of either. It's the absence of Pacific Island cases that is the real clue here.
You're dealing with a community subset that is not in one place.
The disease can screw up younger people too, especially if they're unvaccinated.
The real problem possibility is that Covid patients would take up so many of NZ's ICU beds that we actually see a collapse of the health system. Good luck getting a bed if you're a (fully vaccinated) survivor of a car crash.
"Shielding the vulnerable" sounds great and oh so principled. But what it would mean in practice is devolving responsibility onto the vulnerable themselves by placing them at such risk that they voluntarily stay home while everyone else gets to gad about (including any non-vulnerable people they might live with). i.e. in practice it means not shielding them at all.
Truly shielding the vulnerable is actually being their human shield by getting vaccinated and observing public health restrictions like mask-wearing, social-distancing, staying away from crowded places and generally not gadding about. Which is actually what we are doing now.
So people who advocate" shielding the vulnerable" actually mean un-shielding the vulnerable. Many have a horror or incomprehension of collective responsibility because so many minds have been contaminated by 30 years of neolib obsession with 'personal responsibility'. And tbh I am now getting pretty effed off by the whole scene and the intellectual and moral depravity being spewed out all over the place.
Its not just nana and gramps heading for the retirement home (and they deserve a full life too) It's dozens of people you come into contact with in all sorts of places.
also:
where do the 'shielded' go? – because they cannot shield in a bedroom in a full house.
who will care for them?
who does the work (paid/unpaid) that they do?
who pays?
Does the MoH not count the immune-suppressed? I think they include them if they're on certain medications? They're included in the 3rd primary vaccine dose.
Immune compromised yes, auto immune no. There are a bunch of other chronic illnesses also not included. MoH are basically useless on chronic illness unless it’s one of the heart, lung, kidney ones.
it’s also why the Dr Googles on TS feel entitled to make claims about risk eg almost no-one is at risk from the vaccine. They’re pig ignorant. Afaik the research just hasn’t been done.
I've said before here NZ is blessed with world leading Professor Ed Game, part of the team that gave us the cure for hep C a chronic liver disease caused by a virus, his team here tell me the risks of covid far out weigh the risk of the vaccine. Pig ignorant he is not.
That's interesting. I see these as pretty much the same (because both apply to me), but now you mention it, I can see there might be a few differences.
How to make sense of this: Many of those with autoimmune disorders are given medications which suppress their immune systems which leave them 'immunocompromised' and vulnerable to infections including COVID.
With 5000? "freedom'? marchers I think in two to four days Ad.
There is still a gulf of mistrust in many Rotorua Maori, but this new targeted approach is having success. Although some are resistant they are talking now. They say the new "kindness" leaves them suspicious, as that usually proceeds someone wanting something.
We are in some cases reaping what we have sown. I hope these fears and resulting mistrust can be overcome before the virus gets into their community. As one lady said, "it will be endless tangihanga." Being angry won't help this. It is sad.
This isn't simply about poverty. Pasifika have solid vaccination rates. Nor is it about anti-Maori racism. Elderly Maori are vaccinated too, as are Maori in Wellington and the South Island.
There is, unfortunately, something going through younger, upper North Island Maori that makes them vulnerable to such nuttery. The only thing that is being "wanted" here is for these people to save their own lives, and the lives of their elders.
New Zealand overcome a spirited Wales in the second half to put 50 points on the Welsh at home for the first time.
Wales lost their talisman leader Alun Wyn Jones, early in the first half, to a troublesome shoulder injury. AB highlights include Beaden Barrett scoring two tries and winning man of the match in his 100th game. Best try was to Seevu Reece after the ball changed hands several times down the left flank.
Interest turns to the Black Ferns with nine debutants against a very strong England team tomorrow morning.
Given that due due mmp,our election s have basically become a presidential style election, it would be deeply dishonest for labour to win the election with Ardern at the top then quickly change leaders!
Nah, if she had enough, of if her party has enough of her, she can simply not run and be honest. I hear honesty and integrity are such important things in a politician.
So you would be ok if the country gets fooled by Labour into voting for Jacinda again, just for her to resign to spend more time with the family and make way for Robertson.
Wow. Nevermind the people that in that scenario would have voted for her. To me that would be bordering on fraud on the voting puplic. If she is done with the job, say so, early enough and let Labour run on whom ever they put out. If they are doing such a good job, they should have no issue being voted in again. If no, they did not do as good a job as you might imagine.
I don't know, the idea that Labour might dump Ardern and replace her with 'neoliberal to my core' GR after the election just made me much more interested in pre-election post writing 😈
this is about pretending to run a candidate for an office that that particular candidate then is not going to hold cause they transition after the win into private life rather then do the job they were elected for.
If you want people to get even more cynical about Labour and their doodahs that would be the best way to go.
Vote for Jacinda, Get Grant boy! 2023
Yeah, nah nah.
Vote third party, cause the two big ones are insufferable in their contempt of he tangata.
Oh shhh, this is just a mature discussion of how the public can be fooled/lied/cheated/cajoled/ into ordering one thing and then getting delivered something altogether different, but sadly there will be no right to return, nor will the Labour party accept any complaints from upset voters.
Vote Labour – It don't matter who runs, It just matters who wins. 2023
and you wonder why people stop paying attention and voting.
Cynical. Running for PM and then three month in giving it over to the one who would not have won is cheating. Frankly if the Labour Party knows it can't win on the calibre of its staff, than maybe it needs to start hiring better people.
Out in the open. Yeah, right Tui.
but i will file this under another reason not to vote for this lot.
The cynicism only comes from the Green Party of which you seem so keen to support.
The Greens' leader James Shaw has flown to the most important climate conference in a decade, with zero plan for our country. Even though it's the only thing he had any responsibility to do, and he has made a career out of climate change advocacy.
The Greens have minimal profile despite the whole of the global MSM are pouring climate change stories out faster than you can speak. It was supposed to be something they could do.
The Green's conference is largely held in secret.
The Greens currently oppose the water reforms, according to Sage's media release.
The Greens haven't even bothered to support light rail in Auckland this week.
The Greens are otherwise in charge of nothing, and act like it.
And when the government needs them to assist in a progressive agenda, they run like the fucking political weaklings they are.
The Greens are bumping along around 6-7%, when they were equal with Act just months ago. Act are now challenging National for leadership. Imagine if the Greens had the competence or courage to challenge Labour like Act has National. Greens simply don't have competent leadership to compete.
Instead, the Greens have a very good shot at simply not getting into parliament next time. So it's always amusing to see people like you complain and complain and complain when the only party in parliament that is failing is the Green Party.
I know you don't like the Greens, because they challenge your third way, Blairite world view.
However what are the Greens supposed to do, when the media refuse to publish and ignore everything they say or do, while blaring out like a trumpet, every national party "barking at passing cars" press release and every vapid propaganda meme from the twerking fool?
Not to mention Labour adopting Green policies. Which may not help the Greens visibility, but are still Green achievements.
Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean nothing is happening.
Greens don’t have millions to spend on social media propaganda campaigns. Like the current ones from right wing puppets, including the Tax dodgers Union.
(Greens only accept funding from individuals, not companies or other organisations).
KJT I guess Shaw could have loudly said ,fuck going to copout 26 because this country's not doing much other than rearrange the deck cheers with the foolish ets, and countries like india are committed to burning coal for decades , .
lol, i support the Green? Since when? Because i voted for them many years back in the past? Because i gave some losing greeny a vote because i could not and will not vote for the Labour Quota Woman Jacinda Ardern? Good grief. That is just now pathetic.
Honey, as it stands and as i have stated before, i will neither vote L, N, G. There is not enough money and love in the world that would compel me to rubberstamp anyone of these overpaid and rather useless muppets.
I don't hear that being said by anyone but you Sabine.
But then you have ruled out all parties except Act as far as I can see. So you would say that.
I think Jacinda Ardern has more integrity than that. Just because you don't like her and the Government doesn't give you the right to say untrue things. You constantly look for a stick to beat them with.
"Cheating/ Fraud" Get over your self. It has not happened it will not happen. Parties change their rules quite regularly.
With people like you, damned if they do alter rules and damned if they don't.
You are building bridges for non-existent rivers!!
I think Jacinda and Grant are a great team, as they have agreed goals for NZ. Bit by bit they are changing the levers.
No one is challenging Jacinda Ardern. This meme (Jacinda will retire) has appeared in right wing comments lately. Shades of utter desperation. They have gone from "anyone but JC" to "JA needs to leave as Luxton could compete with Robertson" imo.
1st impression – Get Judge Andrew Breecroft to me a minister – He has more passion and would have greater urgency into fixing the problems that Labour has so often promised to do. He would be action other than just words we hear.
Our minister of Health failed at the end of his interview with his dodging from "The way we manage this virus is keeping people safe," well allowing a 2000 group activity a few weeks ago expand to 5000. Is that the way we are now managing this.
FFS Andrew Little can he not make more light weight excuses for any senior government ministers from visiting Auckland. "There are restrictions in place into getting into and out of Auckland", and then "its about not looking like swanning in and out and our life carries on..", are you guys that superficial ?? Perhaps you don't want to hear and see what you would face should senior govt minister would be confronted with reality.
You do like to misrepresent Labour Govt. ministers at every opportunity don't you. Never mind the context, just so long as you can deride and sneer through a false lens.
Andrew Little was asked a question along the lines… why doesn't Jacinda Ardern andher ministers visit Auckland? It was a mischievous question designed to create an impression that the don't care about Auckland.
First:
The moment they started gallivanting in and out of Auckland the screams from Collins and that pipsqueak, Seymour would reach a crescendo… how dare they come and go as they please while the rest of us are not allowed in or out without special exemptions. One rule for them and another for the rest of us.
Second:
Jacinda Ardern and her senior ministers have a duty to remain in Wellington while the country is going through one of the the most serious crisis in our history. They must be on tap 24/7 to speak with the experts etc., and be able to make instant decisions as emergencies arise.
They are the ones confronting reality – not the likes of Herodotus and Co. Their colleagues in Auckland are working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can. They don't need to come here to know what is going on.
What's more, I don't want them to. Neither do most other reasonable people. They have more than enough to do in Wellington trying to look after the whole country in unprecedented times.
Agree Anne, like rumours of Jacinda leaving just stirring to cause anger and uncertainty. What alternatives do they offer 'Tax cuts" lol been there done that Did nothing for 90% of NZ.
A so-called journalist writes an opinion piece claiming that Jacinda might be moving on and immediately there are messages here from agitated people who think that opinion is now fact. Bad enough reading the local neighbourhood pages and seeing all the misinformation and abuse spewing out there – always optimistic that there was more intelligence on this site. Fake news is fake news ; we should recognise it for what it is and give it no time or oxygen.
"Jacinda Ardern and her senior ministers have a duty to remain in Wellington while the country is going through one of the the most serious crisis in our history. They must be on tap 24/7 to speak with the experts etc., and be able to make instant decisions as emergencies arise."
Ardern has been pottering all over during October ……. Hawkes Bay, Poverty Bay, Lakes district. that being said can't see the point of her travelling to Auckland it's not as if she can do anything useful here.
From memory she spent about a week in the East Coast region. They were well behind the ball game and needed a booster which she was able to provide. That was a useful exercise and she was never that far from Wellington had an emergency arisen. As you say, there's nothing she can do here in Auckland that is not already happening.
It's Ardern and key leadership that are holding this country together. Keeping that leadership safe and functioning is our highest national security risk.
Herald has "Heather Du Plessis-Allan: Jacinda Ardern must visit Auckland."
Following in the headline is "few in Wellington understand the pain."
I'd suggest that many in New Zealand don't understand the pain – the pain of Covid hitting and how it has hit around the world. By rights we should have had many hundreds of thousands of cases and uncomfortably more than ten thousand deaths.
We're largely inured to the reality of how it is and has been globally. We don't know how lucky we are and we're sure as hell ain't going to stop whingeing and making out that our lot is worse than anywhere else.
And note: it is advocates of right-wing neoliberal philosophy – of which HDPA is a member- who are doing all the whingeing and moaning. It never ceases to amaze me these selfish, self-centred pseudo journos are still spreading their lies and innuendo without any consequences whatsoever.
If I had my way they would have been banned from all media platforms by now. I guess its just as well I never get my way. 😉
I think Brian Priestly would have agreed with you.
Media standards are now unimaginably low – the current crop of churnalists are lower than a worm's soul – they make used cars dealers look like saints.
Thank you for reminding me of Brian Priestly. Now there was a journalist of real stature. He was one of a stack of them who were prominent in the 60s,70s and the 80s – Priestly, Ian Johnston, Ian Templeton to name just three. I've forgotten the names of the others but they really show up the current bunch (with a few exceptions of course) for the cowardly ignoramuses they are.
I quoted Little's response, how is that misrepresenting ?I notice your reply had no reference to Littles response, perhaps you are being selective !!! And his 2 reasons for not visiting Auckland were shallow at best. But I am sure for you either of these 2 excuses are fully justified.
"They are the ones confronting reality – not the likes of Herodotus and Co." Funny as I live in Auckland, I am experiencing & confronting reality.
"Their colleagues in Auckland are working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can. They don't need to come here to know what is going on." Well that is not true – Go to food banks and those community assistance groups there are great people doing this with no sight or assistance of any Ak MP's But some of us are able to give and still get attacked for making observations from those like you sitting firing darts
Why do food banks and social services need first hand assistance from MPs and their teams ? Great for photo opportunities – yes – of but practical assistance ? There has been generous extra emergency food funding in Auckland and I've had no problems getting nutritious good sized food parcels delivered to clients in need. Food banks and social services prepare regular statistical / info reports which are sent on to all stakeholders / local MPs etc.
We are fast approaching Christmas – And from my experience this time of year results in increased needs that are not there during the rest of the year. These are met to some degree and give a ray of sunshine how communities support those in need e.g. Community Christmas lunch/dinner, Sourcing & distribution of Christmas food, providing a moment of enjoyment and presents for the children etc will these be an option this year with Covid (Last year there was no restrictions) ?
This time of year there is an increase in people seeking help with their mental welfare, and that this need will be larger than ever (Many who help out are already themselves under stress due to their working in Health and Education)?
By being there you can view stress of helpers/those in need, see hardship, see food stocks or lack of. Just get a feel of how things are, that are unable to be expressed by a phone call, a email, info reports etc.
Maybe they can be shamed into finally accepting that people are doing it hard. I know its hard to understand on a 6 figure income but people are doing it hard.
Never mind, next year in April the Labour Party will again very generously trickle a few pennies down on the deserving poor.
Herodotus, Do you know who supplied the money for the foodbanks? Or is that "being selective". NZ knows how hard this has been, and support all the assistance the Government has supplied. They have done this through familiar agencies to avoid "Oh you are just vote buying". I have not seen anyone querying any of that support. Andrew Little is not a front person, he is not glib and always tries to answer sometimes loaded questions. He is an honest man, journalists thought they had all disappeared.
The comment was a response from MY experience towards what I have seen and heard to Anne and her "Never mind the context, just so long as you can deride and sneer through a false lens." and "..working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can."
And why do you ask "who supplied the money for the foodbanks" in some cases I do know where some of the food and other goods have come from: great anonymous individuals and companies.
"Andrew Little is not a front person.." Still we can only go by his answers and in this case both were poor.
I quoted Little's response, how is that misrepresenting ?I notice your reply had no reference to Littles response, perhaps you are being selective !!! And his 2 reasons for not visiting Auckland were shallow at best. But I am sure for you either of these 2 excuses are fully justified.
Below is what you said @ 6
FFS Andrew Little can he not make more light weight excuses for any senior government ministers from visiting Auckland. "There are restrictions in place into getting into and out of Auckland", and then "its about not looking like swanning in and out and our life carries on..", are you guys that superficial ? (My Bold)
That was a disingenuous response to the Little interview. I answered your claims of his supposed "light weight excuses" and "superficial" response more than adequately @ 6.2.
I do not believe you are a genuine commenter on this site. Your frequent snide references – often couched in the same kind of disingenuous wording as this latest example – lead me to suspect you are really a troll. Your next step will no doubt be to claim victimhood at my expense. 🙄
So these 2 reasons for not travelling to Auckland; One that has been countlessly been solved by many travellers flying here to Auckland in level 3, and the other isn't a reason precluding travel that of possible perception of "swanning ". Your excuses for Littles answers do not IMO cover it, and are totally inadequate. Should you consider me a troll then perhaps a little depth in your response could test that out, that could be asking too much to defend the indefensible as to why traveling to Auckland ins unable to happen.
Some could read your comments that if commentators don't follow your view of the world then they are not welcome.
So you cover yourself regarding me claiming victim hood then you come back with this “As a senior citizen who lives in Auckland and has been very adversely affected by the lockdown” Who are you to say that to , are you that privileged that we all should be on our knees towards you, you are not the only one that this lockdown has had an effect on,perhaps you should consider others ??
Go to food banks and those community assistance groups there are great people doing this with no sight or assistance of any Ak MP's But some of us are able to give and still get attacked for making observations form those like you sitting firing darts.
Spare me the pathos please. Who is throwing the darts? YOU ARE.
How do you know the AK Labour MPs are not out there working their guts out for their affected constituents? Just because they are not swanning around in front of TV cameras like some others we know doesn't mean they are not flat tack. Some of those especially Sth Auckland way must be in a state of exhaustion by now.
As for your offensive comment about "sitting firing darts". As a senior citizen who lives in Auckland and has been very adversely affected by the lockdown, I take deep offence at such a comment. It only serves to confirm my observations about you.
All of political action is like that. That is what being an activist generally means. Make a noise, create good trouble and hopefully bring about change.
Wow!! What a picture of selfish people. All pushing money, trying to cloak it as 1. religion 2. hospitality 3. food production. Bugger Health. Self Interest first by them. imo.
If the water reforms are to have a shot, the farmer lobby needs to be actively smashed.Those who quibble with the legislation proposed (and I've been one) will figure the colossal risk to our country of failing.
As long as it is remembered that everything cities rely upon moves along roads and highways with Farmers along both sides and that cities are surrounded by farmers. The very water people rely upon comes from the country and crosses farms … Their cows already piss in this ……
At her cousin’s home in the Hamilton suburb of Enderley, the least vaccinated suburb in Hamilton, Rose recounts her first interaction with the state. It is the starting point of her mistrust in government, and the relationship hasn't improved since.She feels the state and its agencies have treated her like a criminal, despite having no convictions.
It’s these interactions throughout her life that have informed Rose’s decision not to get the Covid-19 vaccine. Many Māori feel the same way…
I always get stopped by the police even if I’m just walking and minding my business. I never feel listened to at the doctors, and I’m made to feel bad when I have to get assistance from WINZ [Work and Income],” Rose says.
"So yeah I have no criminal record, I work when I can, but I have a newborn, and sometimes I need help, but it’s never good enough for them. You know sis, it’s like I was never good enough until now when they need me to do something, and I’m like what the f….”
Enderley – this is where I grew up. This is where I saw our neighbours go into State care after their parents (Pākehā mother and Māori father, and my mother Pākehā) disappeared on us. After a couple of weeks of us tearing up the neighbourhood, the authorities turned up to round up our families – 6 of us and 5 of them). By pure luck my Dad had just cycled home from work, that Saturday afternoon. The authorities asked “who claims these children?” so Dad claimed us. There was no-one to claim our friends.
Both their parents are now dead and there are only two of their children left now – the first gone at just 18 – booze, drugs, accidents. I caught up with the youngest a couple of years ago at my sister’s funeral (booze, drugs, delayed and denied healthcare). This neighbour's kid has done ok (was fostered to a good family, rather than going to a social welfare unit like her siblings), as have half of my family.
There should be no expectation that the lives we had are going to be inevitably repeated – unless of course, your main interactions are with people in positions of power whose main objective seems to be to keep you down. What it does mean is that any interaction you have with government departments and health and education workers is complicated and requires a lot of compliance for us and a lot of ‘should’ and ‘will’ from them. The alternative to compliance is some form of punishment, there is no autonomy.
Typically, being brown is a signifier for authorities to start with the ‘comply’ rather than the ‘ask’ in any interaction. I’ve not had such a hard time as the neighbours, I’m so white (whiter even than my siblings) my nickname was Milky (or fly-spot due to the freckles). OTOH I was asked once, before I got a smack around the face and a spew of abuse, if I was Māori, because our address and our situation was what all ‘good’ Pākehā think of as a Māori “lifestyle” (liberal intelligentsia who have no belief that a white person from the precariat might succeed at university, I’m looking at you). I’ve escaped all that now and have a cynical (on my part), but relatively good engagement with health and education workers because they have no clue about my background.
When Māori vaccination rates, or naming the communities most affected by this outbreak, come up in conversation in my polite society; and all the intellectual discussions abound, I generally go with the line that it’s simply a big middle-finger to authority – and a well-deserved f*ck you! to politicians, doctors, and educators at that. Florence Kerr's article highlights this view. My family members who didn’t escape also give the one-finger salute to them, as well as swearing by their alternative wellness strategies.
This article is why I’m so frustrated with the government not going with the spirit of the health reforms. How easy would it have been to have someone from Māori Health Authority interim board to be standing up with Dr Bloomfield and the politicians at the beginning of the Delta outbreak and vaccination drive?
I don’t know if playing catch-up with the brilliant work that’s happening on the ground is enough at this stage, but it’s the best hope we’ve got. All strength to the workers doing this job and to the people they care about. As for the police, the government, teachers and healthcare authorities, playing nice from time to time does not make for structural change in attitudes and perceptions. The rest of us should recognise that before having a go at people in the (politely-named) high risk groups who "don't understand / don't care."
They understand all right. Allowing them some future to care about is a whole other matter.
Very thought provoking Mirovox. I can see where you are coming from and understand why these oppressed people are middle-fingering authority. It is just sad that they may get very sick for not having the vaccination. The roll-out needed to be done by their own people and yes, they should have been represented alongside Dr Bloomfield right from the beginning.
Also, we now need somebody/organisation to get alongside the mentally unwell who also do not trust authority but I fear the mental health industry would be the last representation these people need – they don't trust anybody. How do we vaccinate these unfortunate people who live on the margins of society.
This article is why I’m so frustrated with the government not going with the spirit of the health reforms. How easy would it have been to have someone from Māori Health Authority interim board to be standing up with Dr Bloomfield and the politicians at the beginning of the Delta outbreak and vaccination drive?
I don’t know if playing catch-up with the brilliant work that’s happening on the ground is enough at this stage, but it’s the best hope we’ve got. All strength to the workers doing this job and to the people they care about.
Thank you for sharing your experience, very pertinent to understanding the way "hesitancy" by many.
Yes, I would like to add my thanks to Miravox too. If only more people took time out to understand the reasons behind the mistrust – some of which has been handed down through generations of maltreatment at the hands of officialdom.
The police have completly balls up their handling off the anti-vax protests. Despite strong public support for a hard line of enforcement they opted for a softly softly light hand and for supine inaction when confronted with bad faith. They've sent a clear message you can get away with breaching health orders with impunity – indeed, if you are a leader of Christian cult you can even breach your bail conditions with impunity. As a result lawless mobs have grown in size from 1000 to 2000 to 5000.
I think the time has come for for velvet glove to come off and iron fist of the state to start showing these anti-vaxxers what teeth the state actually has, before these groups morph into nascent and then actual domestic terrorist groups with an agenda of directly challenging the governments authority.
The police needs to start detaining the organisers unders section 71A of the health act and where appropriate domestic agencies charged with counter-terrorism need to step up surveillance, with appropriate arrests made if evidence of planning or inciting attacks is found. Dismantle these groups now. They've made plain they'll operate with zero good faith to any promises they make to law enforcement agencies (who in their right mind negotiates with fanatics assuming they'll behave in good faith anyway? The police have been naive idiots). Direct FB to ban their pages – FB will comply if given a direct request from the NZ Police. Get serious about shutting down these troublemakers and COVID Quislings.
Personally, if Sue Grey and Brian and Hannah Tamaki and all the rest 20-30 or so organisers spend to next six months held incommunicado at the Queens pleasure I won’t shed a single tear.
Well thats the problem isn't it – these groups are unappeasable, a bewildering alliance of quacks, grifters, wellness crackpots, conspiracy theorists, fascists and extreme libertarians united by only their narcissism at being really, really put out at beingask to comply with a basic piece of public health or suffer consequences.
They are fanatics who see themselves on some sort of crusade. They only option is to crush them out of hand with arrests, detentions and the like.
Barbara the vege shop lady told me she's been verbally harassed by anti-vaxxers.
Well heeled ladies of of a particular wellness persuasion traveling in a premium marque entered her shop and inquired about her vaccination status. When she enlightened them they took to her, telling her that not only was she a danger to them, because shedding, apparently, but that she was going to die along with every other vaccinated person.
Barbara's 70 in the shade and would have given them a proper serve when she ever so politely asked them to F right O. Arseholes still upset her, though.
She should have taken their car reg. no. and passed it on to the police. I have a pad and pen in my glove box for that purpose should I see anti-vaxxers harassing and abusing people.
Anne was referring to your story of people in a shop having a political argument. That's different than someone being threatened and needing security. You can demonise and other the range of people fucked off about covid response, and treat them as one big lot of scum, and they will just get stronger.
And, if you want people you disagree with arrested for arguing politics, then you can't object when that happens to you or people you agree with. Do you want democracy or not? Time for the left to deal with its authoritarian shit before this gets out of hand.
If you think a group of women (in this case) have the right to enter a retail premise with the express purpose of seeking out the retailer's vaccination status and then harassing and threatening them because of that status… then I am astonished.
It is becoming increasingly concerning that many of these anti vaxxers seem to think they have the right to accost anyone they like whenever they like and harass and intimidate them as much as they like. They need to be caught and arrested as an example to anyone else who thinks it is okay to behave in such a way.
If you think a group of women (in this case) have the right to enter a retail premise with the express purpose of seeking out the retailer's vaccination status and then harassing and threatening them because of that status… then I am astonished.
So you want people to be arrested for this. On what charge?
And will you then be ok if other protestors are arrested? How about climate protestors?
Maybe you need to spend a bit of time in Auckland weka. The police's relative leniency against the hard-core anti-vaxxers has emboldened them to take actions that are heading towards dangerous levels. Only yesterday a South Pacific vaccination Medical Centre in Auckland had its front windows smashed in.
I find it amusing that some people here (and elsewhere) pleaded with the pro -vaccine citizens ( the vast majority of the population) to "go easy" on the anti-vaxxers etc. It was assumed we would be the ones who would become aggressive.
The truth has turned out to be the opposite. It is the crazies embedded in the anti-vax movement who are committing the offences and it is only going to get worse unless the police start taking a hard line on them.
what's the connection specifically with terrorism?
I'm fine with arresting people breaching the orders (not wearing masks, not social distancing). Cracking down on protesting is a really bad idea, the ability to protest is intrinsic to democracy.
"But New Zealand cannot get there with domestic reductions alone. In fact, a full two-thirds will have to be purchased from other countries at a cost of about a billion dollars a year.
Shaw said the preference was to work with developing countries in the Asia Pacific region to, for example, plant trees, but as the decision was only made by Cabinet in past week all of the details were still to come"
I'll qualify that. Fuck the people who didn't vote Green Party when that would have been a relatively easy thing to do (i.e. lots of Labour voters). Some blame Shaw, but it's the Labour Cabinet making these decisions, not Shaw. There's absolutely no excuse unless one is a climate denialist, or that we are not responsble for later generations and life on earth.
Pretty much agree with that. I'm thinking next time though, there's a party that will pay attention to climate change as well as to the plight of the Precariat in ways that The Greens have not been able to. That party is Te Paati Māori (noting here so problematic views from a particular person on the executive). I'll be watching with interest how the polling is going in the lead-up to the next election before I decide on my non-Labour party vote, if I go that way.
I will consider shifting my vote to te Mp as well, but totally dependent on whether that will actually help in terms of MP numbers to hold Labour to account.
Am thinking it's time to rark up the Greens. But ultimately we need extra-parliamentary movements and I think everyone is just distracted with covid (and unlike others, I don't think covid is going away and that we are in for some difficult times next year in NZ, we haven't yet had to deal with the death and disability side like the rest of the world has).
there's a party that will pay attention to climate change as well as to the plight of the Precariat in ways that The Greens have not been able to.
I think Marama Davidson is doing good work. But yes, this is a long standing problem, and what fucks me off is that Labour voters who aren't part of the precariat could have been voting Green and we would have better climate and end poverty policies being enacted. I just think the whole left wing 'we want action' on those things is hot air.
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 ...
I WAS A CAPTAIN COOK MAN, Grant Robertson was a Robbie Burns man. If you know anything about the great student pubs of Dunedin in the 1970s, 80s and 90s, those allegiances should tell you a lot. While I was at varsity, the “Cook” had a reputation for entertaining more ...
Good old WD40. Is there nothing it can't do?Door squeaking? No problem, WD-40.Chewing gum stuck to the carpet? No worries, WD-40. Crayon marks? Spanner rusted up? Zipper won't undo? WD-40. WD-40. WD-40. It can even waterproof your shoes, I hear.(More Than A Feilding makes no warranty as to the efficacy of WD40 ...
Buzz from the Beehive The distributions of two dollops of corporate welfare have been proudly announced in government press statements today, but neither mentions or relates to the further taxpayer funding for ski fields on the skids. The government’s official website tells of $7 million being provided to boost aerospace ...
In recent years I've done a long series of posts poking into police OIA data and how it hides how badly the police suck at carrying out their obligations under the Act. And in a response to a recent request, it seems the police have been doing the same. A ...
Christopher Luxon evidently thinks this election is SO in the bag that he can afford to spurn the still-undecideds, the entire South Island, and the old Christchurch money that still reads the Press and shops at Ballantynes. We should all shed a tear for the National Party candidates across the ...
Elizabeth Rate writes – There are two versions of the Treaty of Waitangi. The first is the 1840 Treaty – the ‘Articles Treaty’. The second is what I call the ‘Principles Treaty’. It dates from 1986 when the principles were first included in legislation. Astonishingly, the parliamentary ...
Mayor Wayne Brown, a Northland land-banker himself, appears relaxed about borrowing to invest in land but not in, for example, transport infrastructure and services. File photo: Lynn Grieveson/Getty ImagesTL;DR: You couldn’t make this stuff up. A mayor determined to cut council debt by selling shares in a monopoly business because ...
As we invest in our public transport network, it’s critical that we not only invest in transformative projects like the City Rail Link, but that we also get as much use as we can out of the network we already have – which will also maximise the outcomes of those ...
The Labour Government was elected with 50 per cent of the vote three years ago, but current opinion polls show their vote could halve in this year’s election, which would be one of the biggest plunges in political history. Most polls have Labour on about 26 per cent. And the ...
Commentary There are two versions of the Treaty of Waitangi. The first is the 1840 Treaty – the ‘Articles Treaty’. The second is what I call the ‘Principles Treaty’. It dates from 1986 when the principles were first included in legislation. Astonishingly the parliamentary representatives who inserted the word ‘principles’ ...
It’s hard not to become a bit blasé towards climate change headlines. Flooding kills hundreds - blah. Catastrophic droughts - blah blah. One-in-a-hundred year events happening every year - blah blah blah.The earth had its highest temperature on record - again.Think we’ve read that one.So many articles telling us ...
The Kākā’s climate correspondent and had a chat with environmental historian and author Catherine Knight about why ‘feel good' actions like recycling and owning an electric car are unlikely to be enough to create a transition to zero emissions, let alone a just one. Knight says comments like ...
National leader Christopher Luxon has pulled out of any rescheduling of tonight’s Press debate, which has had to be cancelled because Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has Covid. The cancellation has given National an excuse to avoid a debate, which was always going to be a risk for Luxon. But ...
The People's Champion vs The People's Prosecutor: It is the news media’s job to elicit information from politicians – not to prosecute them. Peters’ promise to sort out TVNZ should be believed. If he finds himself in a position to carry out his threat, then it will only be because ...
Buzz from the Beehive The headline on a ministerial press statement curiously expresses the government’s position when it declares: Government shows further commitment to pay equity for healthcare workers. Is it not enough to declare just one commitment? Or is the government’s commitment to pay equity being declared sector by ...
There have been 53 New Zealand Parliaments so far. The 39th of them was elected in 1978. It was a parliament of 92 MPs, most of them men. The New Zealand Music Awards that year named John RowlesMale Vocalist of the Year and — after a short twelve months ...
Aotearoa has a cost of living crisis. And one of the major drivers of this crisis is the supermarket duopoly, who gouge every dollar they can out of us. Last year, the Commerce Commission found that the duopoly was in fact anti-competititve, giving the government social licence to fix the ...
Familiarity breeds consent. If you repeat the line “six years of economic mis-management” about 10,000 times, it sounds like the received wisdom, whatever the evidence to the contrary. Yes, the global pandemic and the global surge in inflation that came in its wake occurred here as well – but if ...
Michael Bassett writes – Without so much as batting an eyelid, Chris Hipkins told an audience on Saturday that there had been “more racism” in this election campaign than ever before. And he blamed it on the opposition parties, National, Act and New Zealand First. In those ...
While the economy is not doing too badly in output terms, external circumstances are not favourable, and there is probably a sizeable group of households struggling because of rising interest rates.Brian Easton writes – Last week’s announcement of a 0.9 percent increase in volume GDP for ...
“You can't really undo what happens during childhood”, said the director of the Dunedin longitudinal study. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR:Richie Poulton, the director of the world-leading Dunedin longitudinal study showing how devastating poverty in early life is, died yesterday. With his final words, he lamented the lack ...
This is a guest post from reader Peter N As many of us know, Auckland Transport and Waka Kotahi are well into progressing works on the northwestern interim “busway” with services to kick off in just over a month from now on Sunday 12th November 2023. Some of the ...
Hi,Before we talk about weird schools people choose to send their kids to, a few things on my mind. I adored the Ask Me Anything we did last week. Thanks for taking part. I love answering your weird and nosy questions, even questions about beans.I am excited and scared as Mister ...
A National government would make spending cuts on a scale not seen since the 1990 – 96 Bolger government.That much was confirmed with the release of their Fiscal Plan on Friday.Government spending is currently high as a percentage of GDP — as high as it was during the Muldoon ...
Chris Hipkins down with Covid, at least for 5 days isolation, National continue to obfuscate, ACT continues to double-down on the poor and Winston… well, he’s being Winston really. Voters beware: this week could be even more infuriating than the last. No Party is what they used to be ...
A chronological listing of news and opinion articles posted on the Skeptical Science Facebook Page during the past week: Sun, Sep 24, 2023 thru Sat, Sep 30, 2023. Story of the Week We’re not doomed yet’: climate scientist Michael Mann on our last chance to save human civilisationThe renowned US ...
On the 11th of April 1945 advancing US forces liberated the Nazi concentration camp of Buchenwald near Weimar in Germany. In the coming days, under the order of General Patton, a thousand nearby residents were forced to march to the camp to see the atrocities that had been committed in ...
Years and years ago, when Helen Clark was Prime Minister and John Key was gunning for her job, I had a conversation with a mate, a trader who knew John Key well enough to paint a helpful picture.It was many drinks ago so it’s not a complete one. But there’s ...
Completed reads for September: The Lost Continent, by C.J. Cutcliffe Hyne Flatland, by Edwin Abbott All Quiet on the Western Front, by Erich Maria Remarque The Country of the Blind, by H.G. Wells The Day of the Triffids, by John Wyndham A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles ...
Descending Into The Dark: The ideological cadres currently controlling both Labour and the Greens are forcing “justice”, “participation” and “democracy” to make way for what is “appropriate” and “responsible”. But, where does that leave the people who, for most of their adult lives, have voted for left-wing parties, precisely to ...
“‘BUT HE HASN’T GOT ANYTHING ON,’ a little boy said ….. ‘But he hasn’t got anything on!’ the whole town cried out at last.”On this optimistic note, Hans Christian Andersen brings his cautionary tale of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” to an end.Andersen’s children’s story was written nearly two centuries ago, ...
Bryce Edwards writes – As the National Party gets closer to government, lobbyists and business interests will be lining up for influence and to get policies adopted. It’s therefore in the public interest to have much more scrutiny and transparency about potential conflicts of interests that ...
Lindsay Mitchell writes – The heavily promoted narrative, which has ramped up over the last six years, is that Maori somehow have special vulnerabilities which arise from outside forces they cannot control; that contemporary society fails to meet their needs. They are not receptive to messages and ...
Not Labour: If you’re out to punish the government you once loved, then the last thing you need is to be shown evidence that the opposition parties are much, much worse.Chris Trotter writes –THE GREATEST VIRTUE of being the Opposition is not being the Government. Only very ...
Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The five things that mattered in Aotearoa’s political economy that we wrote and spoke about via The Kākā and elsewhere for paying subscribers in the last week included:Labour presented a climate manifesto that aimed to claim the high ground on climate action vs National, ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past two weeks.Friday 29Play it, ElvisElection Hell special!! This week’s quiz is a bumper edition featuring a few of the more popular questions from last weekend’s show, as well as a few we didn’t ...
Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past two weeks.Friday 29Play it, ElvisElection Hell special!! This week’s quiz is a bumper edition featuring a few of the more popular questions from last weekend’s show, as well as a few we didn’t ...
While the economy is not doing too badly in output terms, external circumstances are not favourable, and there is probably a sizeable group of households struggling because of rising interest rates.Last week’s announcement of a 0.9 percent increase in volume GDP for the June quarter had the commentariat backing down ...
This week the International Energy Association released its Net Zero Roadmap, intended to guide us towards a liveable climate. The report demanded huge increases in renewable generation, no new gas or oil, and massive cuts to methane emissions. It was positive about our current path, but recommended that countries with ...
Buzz from the BeehiveOh, dear. We have nothing to report from the Beehive. At least, we have nothing to report from the government’s official website. But the drones have not gone silent. They are out on the election campaign trail, busy buzzing about this and that in the hope ...
Election Hell special!! This week’s quiz is a bumper edition featuring a few of the more popular questions from last weekend’s show, as well as a few we didn’t have time for. You’re welcome, etc. Let us press on, etc. 1. What did Christopher Luxon use to his advantage in ...
National unveiled its fiscal policy today, announcing all the usual things which business cares about and I don't. But it did finally tell us how National plans to pay for its handouts to landlords: by effectively cutting benefits: The biggest saving announced on Friday was $2b cut from the ...
Photo by Anna Ogiienko on UnsplashIt’s that time of the week for an ‘Ask Me Anything’ session for paying subscribers about the week that was for an hour, including:duelling fiscal plans from National and Labour;Labour cutting cycling spending while accusing National of being weak on climate;Research showing the need for ...
Welcome to Friday and the last one for September. This week in Greater Auckland On Monday, Matt highlighted at the latest with the City Rail Link. On Tuesday, Matt covered the interesting items from Auckland Transport’s latest board meeting agendas. On Thursday, a guest post from Darren Davis ...
Brian’s god spoke to him. He, for of course the Lord in Tamaki’s mind was a male god, with a mighty rod, and probably some black leathers. He, told Brian - “you must put a stop to all this love, hope, and kindness”. And it did please the Brian.He said ...
Labour is cutting spending on cycling infrastructure while still trying to claim the higher ground on climate. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The Labour Government released a climate manifesto this week to try to claim the high ground against National, despite having ignored the Climate Commission’s advice to toughen ...
Not Labour: If you’re out to punish the government you once loved, then the last thing you need is to be shown evidence that the opposition parties are much, much worse.THE GREATEST VIRTUE of being the Opposition is not being the Government. Only very rarely is an opposition party elected ...
Open access notables "Net zero is only a distraction— we just have to end fossil fuel emissions." The latter is true but the former isn't, or not in the real world as it's likely to be in the immediate future. And "just" just doesn't enter into it; we don't have ...
IN THE CURRENT MIX of electoral alternatives, there is no longer a credible left-wing party. Not when “a credible left-wing party” is defined as: a class-oriented, mass-based, democratically-structured political organisation; dedicated to promoting ideas sharply critical of laissez-faire capitalism; and committed to advancing democratic, egalitarian and emancipatory ideals across the ...
It is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha Primary School!It can be any time when you are telling a story.Telling stories about things that happened in the past is how we learn from our mistakes.If we want to.Anyway, it is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha ...
It is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha Primary School!It can be any time when you are telling a story.Telling stories about things that happened in the past is how we learn from our mistakes.If we want to.Anyway, it is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha ...
It is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha Primary School!It can be any time when you are telling a story.Telling stories about things that happened in the past is how we learn from our mistakes.If we want to.Anyway, it is not the school holidays yet at Kia Kaha ...
Labour’s Chris Hipkins came out firing, in the leaders’ debate on Newshub’s evening programme, and most of the pundits rated him the winner against National’s Christopher Luxon. But will this make any difference when New Zealanders start casting their ballots? The problem for Hipkins is that voters are all too ...
Buzz from the BeehiveNot long after Point of Order published data which show the substantial number of New Zealanders (77%) who believe NZ is becoming more divided, government ministers were braying about a programme which distributes some money to “the public” and some to “Maori”. The ministers were dishing ...
The D&W analysisMichael Grimshaw writes – Given the apathy, disengagement, disillusionment, and all-round ennui of this year’s general election, it was considered time to bring in those noted political operatives and spin doctors D&W, the long-established consultancy firm run by Emile Durkheim and Max Weber. Known for ...
Kissy kissy. Cartoon credit BoomSlang. The BFD. JC writes- Allow me to preface this contribution with the following statement: If I were asked to express a preference between a National/ACT coalition or a National/ACT/NZF coalition then it would be the former. This week Luxon declared his position, ...
This re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Andy Furillo was originally published by Capital & Main and is part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story. The California Legislature took a step last week that has the potential to accelerate the fight against climate ...
This is a cross post Adventures in Transitland by Darren Davis. I recently visited Brisbane and South East Queensland and came away both impressed while also pondering some key changes to make public transport even better in the region. Here goes with my take on things. A bit of ...
My daughter arrived home from the supermarket yesterday and she seemed a bit worried about something. It turned out she wanted to know if someone could get her bank number from a receipt.We wound the story back.She was in the store and there was a man there who was distressed, ...
New Zealand’s longest-running political roadshow rolled into Opotiki yesterday, with New Zealand First leader Winston Peters knowing another poll last night showed he would make it back to Parliament and National would need him and his party if they wanted to form a government. The Newshub Reid Research poll ...
Hi,As September draws to a close — I feel it’s probably time to do an Ask Me Anything. You know how it goes: If you have any burning questions, fire away in the comments and I will do my best to answer. You might have questions about Webworm, or podcast ...
The mediocrity who stands to be a Prime Minister has a litany.He uses it a bit like a Koru Lounge card. He will brandish it to say: these people are eligible. And more than that, too: These people are deserving.They have earned this policy.They have a right to this policy. What ...
Buzz from the BeehivePoint of Order has waited until now – 3.45pm – for today’s officially posted government announcements. There have been none. The only addition to the news on the Beehive’s website was posted later yesterday, after we had published our September 26 Buzz report. It came from ...
Alex Holland writes – In 2017 when Labour came to power, crown spending was $76 billion per year. Now in 2023 it is $139 billion per year, which equates to a $63 billion annual increase (over $1 billion extra spend every week!) In 2017, New Zealand’s government debt ...
Labour released its fiscal plan today, promising the same old, same old: "responsibility", balanced books, and of course no new taxes: "Labour will maintain income tax settings to provide consistency and certainty in these volatile times. Now is not the time for additional taxes or to promise billions of ...
The Facts has posted – KEY INSIGHTSOf New Zealander’s polled: Social unity/division77%believe NZ is becoming more divided (42% ‘much more’ + 35% ‘a little more’) 3%believe NZ is becoming less divided (1% ‘much less’ + 2% ‘a little less’) ...
The centre-right’s enthusiasm for forcing people off the benefit and into paid work is matched only by the enthusiasm (shared by Treasury and the Reserve Bank) for throwing people out of paid work to curb inflation, and achieve the optimal balance of workers to job seekers deemed to be desirable ...
New research shows that tenants in social housing - such as these Wellington apartments - are just as happy as home owners and much happier than private tenants. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The election campaign took an ugly turn yesterday, and in completely the wrong direction. All three ...
If there’s one thing the mob loves more than keeping Māori in their place, more than getting tough on the gangs, maybe even more than tax cuts. It’s a good old round of beneficiary bashing.Are those meanies in the ACT party stealing your votes because they think David Seymour is ...
Labour kicks off the fiscal credibility battle today with the release of its fiscal plan. National is expected to follow, possibly as soon as Thursday, with its own plan, which may (or may not) address the large hole that the problems with its foreign buyers’ ban might open up. ...
While it may be unlikely to register in New Zealand’s general election, Britain’s PM Rishi Sunak has done something which might just be important in the long run. He’s announced a far-reaching change in his Conservative government’s approach to environmental, and particularly net zero, policy. The starting point – ...
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 ...
Canada is in uproar after the exposure that its parliament on September 22 provided a standing ovation to a Nazi veteran who had been invited into the chamber to participate in the parliamentary welcome to Ukrainian President Zelensky. Yaroslav Hunka, 98, a Ukrainian man who volunteered for service in ...
The big screen is a great place to lay out the ways of the salesman. He comes ready-made for Panto, ripe for lampooning.This is not to disparage that life. I have known many good people of that kind. But there is a type, brazen as all get out. The camera ...
Labour is in it for you. This election Kiwis will decide what kind of country they want New Zealand to be, who they trust to have their back, and how we can be better, together. This election matters. View our full Manifesto below. ...
The National Party's U-turn on water reform has left local councils high and dry and will drive up Kiwi's rates bills, Labour Party Local Government Spokesperson Kieran McAnulty says. ...
A re-elected Labour Party will continue to tackle discriminations still faced by members of the Rainbow community in areas ranging from surrogacy and adoption to blood donation. ...
National’s fiscal plan has failed to fill the massive fiscal hole in its dodgy tax scheme, it will mean more cuts to public services, more children being put into poverty and an end to action on climate change. ...
New Zealand First Policy Announcement:Law and Order New Zealand First believes that keeping society safe should be the priority of law-and-order policies. Every New Zealander deserves to feel safe, secure, and have their person and property respected. That is why New Zealand First continues to fix the flaws in ...
In last night’s leaders debate Labour Leader Chris Hipkins referred toaquote without giving any explanation of its content, which was about the ‘disease of co-governance’ that is perpetuated by the Māori elite, and he said it was racist. Then, without even examining the content, National leader Christopher Luxon agreed with ...
In last night’s leaders debate Labour Leader Chris Hipkins referred toaquote without giving any explanation of its content, which was about the ‘disease of co-governance’ that is perpetuated by the Māori elite, and he said it was racist. Then, without even examining the content, National leader Christopher Luxon agreed with ...
After years of criticising the Government on law and order, National have embarrassed themselves by conceding they have no new ideas and instead copied Labour’s Police policy announced three weeks ago, Labour Police spokesperson Ginny Andersen says. ...
Labour’s fiscal plan will continue its focus on carefully managing the books while protecting critical public services like health and education and investing to deliver high wage jobs and a low carbon economy. ...
New Zealand First today is announcing a policy on adjusting the rules and restrictions around access to the Job Seeker Benefit.New Zealand First’s policy is to introduce a capped time-period for any person to access the Job Seeker Benefit during their lifetime. Any individual will have the ability to access the Job Seeker ...
New Zealand First today is announcing a policy on adjusting the rules and restrictions around access to the Job Seeker Benefit.New Zealand First’s policy is to introduce a capped time-period for any person to access the Job Seeker Benefit during their lifetime. Any individual will have the ability to access the Job Seeker ...
National’s cuts to funding for beneficiaries will once again leave children and their parents with less, Spokesperson for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni said. ...
The Green Party will double the Best Start payment and make it available for every child under three years of age - and it will be paid for with a fair tax system. ...
Labour will fund more medicines for more New Zealanders by investing over $1 billion of new funding into Pharmac if re-elected, Chris Hipkins announced today. ...
Labour has just announced a policy to increase Pharmac funding by $1billion over four years to fund additional medicines.With the current Pharmac budget of $1.2billion per year and needing a further $213million, by Minister Verrall’s own admission, just to keep up with current costs - then this is nothing ...
Labour has just announced a policy to increase Pharmac funding by $1billion over four years to fund additional medicines.With the current Pharmac budget of $1.2billion per year and needing a further $213million, by Minister Verrall’s own admission, just to keep up with current costs - then this is nothing ...
This matter begins with the Pike River investigation being inadequate, inexplicably lengthy, and after millions of dollars, the evidence that should have been placed before the public still has not been. We have always believed that Pike River isacrime scene, and thataproper investigation would have come to that conclusion. Blue ...
This matter begins with the Pike River investigation being inadequate, inexplicably lengthy, and after millions of dollars, the evidence that should have been placed before the public still has not been. We have always believed that Pike River isacrime scene, and thataproper investigation would have come to that conclusion. Blue ...
New Zealand faces a stark choice this election – vote for Labour to continue to confront the climate emergency with eyes wide open or bury your head in the sand alongside Christopher Luxon. ...
Labour is supercharging its plan to solve the public housing shortfall created by National, promising another 6,000 homes on top of what has already been committed says Labour Housing spokesperson Dr Megan Woods. ...
Labour will back migrant working families by introducing a 10-year multiple-entry parents’ and grandparents’ Super Visa, and make good on the Dawn Raids apology by providing a one-off visa for overstayers who have been in the country ten years or more, Labour’s Immigration Spokesperson Andrew Little says. ...
The Green Party is today welcoming Labour coming to the table to ensure an amnesty for overstayers, but only the Greens will ensure immigration settings actually reflect the reality of people who have been failed by our immigration system. ...
The Green Party is calling on Auckland Council to do more to protect urban trees and housing developer Aedifice Property Group to restore and replant the native forest it cleared, and protect all the remaining trees on Ngahere Road in Pukekohe after a significant number of native trees were cut ...
Latest Police data shows monthly ram raids have hit a two-year low, laying waste to Christopher Luxon’s false claim that there are two ram raids a day says Labour’s Police Spokesperson Ginny Andersen. ...
Free and healthy school lunches will be here to stay if Labour is re-elected, guaranteeing food for our kids who need it most and significant cost saving for parents. ...
The next Labour Government will build a new hospital in Hawke’s Bay, Labour leader Chris Hipkins and Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall announced. ...
The Green Party will keep up the fight to support exploited migrant workers, including pushing to end single employer visas, after the government picked up Green recommendations to improve immigration settings. ...
Green Party co leader James Shaw visited a home in Auckland today that has been upgraded with a wide range of energy improvements, similar to those that would be supported through the Green Party’s Clean Power Payment. ...
The Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta’s presence in New York today at the United Nations General Assembly is a contempt of New Zealand’s “caretaker government” convention. Despite the long-standing caretaker convention, Minister Mahuta is today at the UN to sign a highly contentious “Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement”, delivering a ...
The Pre-Election Fiscal Update Changes EverythingWithin an hour of this speech there is going to be a debate between the political parties that the media, under MMP, still think are the only parties that matter in this campaign. Both of those parties are riddled with inexperience, as evidenced by ...
National and ACT's tax plans don't add up, and that means deep cuts to the public services New Zealanders rely on, says Labour Campaign Chair Megan Woods. ...
The successful ‘Circuit Breaker’ fast track programme designed to stop repeat youth offending was launched in two new locations today by Children’s Minister Kelvin Davis. The programme, first piloted in West and South Auckland in December last year, is aimed at children aged 10-13 who commit serious offending or continue ...
The Government’s Apprenticeship Boost initiative has now supported 20,000 employers to help keep on and train up apprentices, Minister for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni announced in Christchurch today. Almost 62,000 apprentices have been supported to start and keep training for a trade since the initiative was introduced in ...
The Government is supporting non-pine tree sawmilling and backing further job creation in sawmills in Rotorua and Whangarei, Forestry Minister Peeni Henare said. “The Forestry and Wood Processing Industry Transformation Plan identified the need to add more diversity to our productions forests, wood products and markets,” Peeni Henare said. ...
The Government is helping Canterbury’s aerospace industry take off with further infrastructure support for the Tāwhaki Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete, Infrastructure Minister Dr Megan Woods has announced. “Today I can confirm we will provide a $5.4 million grant to the Tāwhaki Joint Venture to fund a sealed runway and hangar ...
Local councils will have more power to decide where new commercial forests – including carbon forests – are located, to reduce impacts on communities and the environment, Environment Minister David Parker said today. “New national standards give councils greater control over commercial forestry, including clear rules on harvesting practices and ...
New Zealand will again contribute to the leadership of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt, with a senior New Zealand Defence Force officer returning as Interim Force Commander. Defence Minister Andrew Little and Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta have announced the deployment of New Zealand ...
The Government has taken an important step in implementing the new resource management system, by issuing a draft National Planning Framework (NPF) document under the new legislation, Environment Minister David Parker said today. “The NPF consolidates existing national direction, bringing together around 20 existing instruments including policy statements, standards, and ...
The Government welcomes the proposed pay equity settlement that will see significant pay increases for around 18,000 Te Whatu Ora Allied, Scientific, and Technical employees, if accepted said Health Minister Ayesha Verrall. The proposal reached between Te Whatu Ora, the New Zealand Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi ...
The public EV charging network has received a significant boost with government co-funding announced today for over 100 EV chargers – with over 200 charging ports altogether – across New Zealand, and many planned to be up and running on key holiday routes by Christmas this year. Minister of Energy ...
Tuvalu is in the spotlight this week as communities across New Zealand celebrate Vaiaso o te Gagana Tuvalu – Tuvalu Language Week. “The Government has a proven record of supporting Pacific communities and ensuring more of our languages are spoken, heard and celebrated,” Pacific Peoples Minister Barbara Edmonds said. “Many ...
Seven more innovative community-scale energy projects will receive government funding through the Māori and Public Housing Renewable Energy Fund to bring more affordable, locally generated clean energy to more than 800 Māori households, Energy and Resources Minister Dr Megan Woods says. “We’ve already funded 42 small-scale clean energy projects that ...
The Government has approved new funding that will boost resilience and greatly reduce the risk of major flood damage across Te Tai Tokerau. Significant weather events this year caused severe flooding and damage across the region. The $8.9m will be used to provide some of the smaller communities and maraes ...
The largest public housing development in Napier for many years has been recently completed and has the added benefit of innovative solar technology, thanks to Government programmes, says Housing Minister Dr Megan Woods. The 24 warm, dry homes are in Seddon Crescent, Marewa and Megan Woods says the whanau living ...
Māori: Kua waitohua e Te Whānau a Apanui me te Karauna te Whakaaetanga Whakataunga Kua waitohua e Te Whānau a Apanui me te Karauna i tētahi Whakaaetanga Whakataunga hei whakamihi i ō rātou tāhuhu kerēme Tiriti o Waitangi. E tekau mā rua ngā hapū o roto mai o Te Whānau ...
Regions around the country will get significant boosts of public housing in the next two years, as outlined in the latest public housing plan update, released by the Housing Minister, Dr Megan Woods. “We’re delivering the most public homes each year since the Nash government of the 1950s with one ...
Judicial warrant process for out-of-hours compliance visits 2023/24 Recognised Seasonal Employer cap increased by 500 Additional roles for Construction and Infrastructure Sector Agreement More roles added to Green List Three-month extension for onshore Recovery Visa holders The Government has confirmed a number of updates to immigration settings as part of ...
Tangi ngunguru ana ngā tai ki te wahapū o Hokianga Whakapau Karakia. Tārehu ana ngā pae maunga ki Te Puna o te Ao Marama. Korihi tangi ana ngā manu, kua hinga he kauri nui ki te Wao Nui o Tāne. He Toa. He Pou. He Ahorangi. E papaki tū ana ...
40 solar energy systems on community buildings in regions affected by Cyclone Gabrielle and other severe weather events Virtual capability-building hub to support community organisations get projects off the ground Boost for community-level renewable energy projects across the country At least 40 community buildings used to support the emergency response ...
The lifting of COVID-19 isolation and mask mandates in August has resulted in a return of almost $50m in savings and recovered contingencies, Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall announced today. Following the revocation of mandates and isolation, specialised COVID-19 telehealth and alternative isolation accommodation are among the operational elements ...
Susie Houghton of Auckland has been appointed as a new District Court Judge, to serve on the Family Court, Attorney-General David Parker said today. Judge Houghton has acted as a lawyer for child for more than 20 years. She has acted on matters relating to the Hague Convention, an international ...
The Government has today confirmed $2.5 million to fund a replace and upgrade a stopbank to protect the Waipawa Drinking Water Treatment Plant. “As a result of Cyclone Gabrielle, the original stopbank protecting the Waipawa Drinking Water Treatment Plant was destroyed. The plant was operational within 6 weeks of the ...
Another $2.1 million to boost capacity to deal with waste left in Cyclone Gabrielle’s wake. Funds for Hastings District Council, Phoenix Contracting and Hog Fuel NZ to increase local waste-processing infrastructure. The Government is beefing up Hawke’s Bay’s Cyclone Gabrielle clean-up capacity with more support dealing with the massive amount ...
The future of Supercars events in New Zealand has been secured with new Government support. The Government is getting engines started through the Major Events Fund, a special fund to support high profile events in New Zealand that provide long-term economic, social and cultural benefits. “The Repco Supercars Championship is ...
The economy has turned a corner with confirmation today New Zealand never was in recession and stronger than expected growth in the June quarter, Finance Minister Grant Robertson said. “The New Zealand economy is doing better than expected,” Grant Robertson said. “It’s continuing to grow, with the latest figures showing ...
The Government has accepted the Environment Court’s recommendation to give special legal protection to New Zealand’s largest freshwater springs, Te Waikoropupū Springs (also known as Pupū Springs), Environment Minister David Parker announced today. “Te Waikoropupū Springs, near Takaka in Golden Bay, have the second clearest water in New Zealand after ...
Temporary package of funding for accommodation and essential living support for victims of migrant exploitation Exploited migrant workers able to apply for a further Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa (MEPV), giving people more time to find a job Free job search assistance to get people back into work Use of 90-day ...
An export boost is supporting New Zealand’s economy to grow, adding to signs that the economy has turned a corner and is on a stronger footing as we rebuild from Cyclone Gabrielle and lock in the benefits of multiple new trade deals, Finance Minister Grant Robertson says. “The economy is ...
The Government has approved $15 million to raise about 200 homes at risk of future flooding. More than half of this is expected to be spent in the Tairāwhiti settlement of Te Karaka, lifting about 100 homes there. “Te Karaka was badly hit during Cyclone Gabrielle when the Waipāoa River ...
The Government is helping businesses recover from Cyclone Gabrielle and attract more people back into their regions. “Cyclone Gabrielle has caused considerable damage across North Island regions with impacts continuing to be felt by businesses and communities,” Economic Development Minister Barbara Edmonds said. “Building on our earlier business support, this ...
Defence Minister Andrew Little has turned the first sod to start construction of a new Maintenance Support Facility (MSF) at Burnham Military Camp today. “This new state-of-art facility replaces Second World War-era buildings and will enable our Defence Force to better maintain and repair equipment,” Andrew Little said. “This Government ...
Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta will represent New Zealand at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this week, before visiting Washington DC for further Pacific focussed meetings. Nanaia Mahuta will be in New York from Wednesday 20 September, and will participate in UNGA leaders ...
Around 1,700 Te Whatu Ora employed midwives and maternity care assistants will soon vote on a proposed pay equity settlement agreed by Te Whatu Ora, the Midwifery Employee Representation and Advisory Service (MERAS) and New Zealand Nurses Association (NZNO), Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall announced today. “Addressing historical pay ...
Aotearoa New Zealand will provide humanitarian support to those affected by last week’s earthquake in Morocco, Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta announced today. “We are making a contribution of $1 million to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to help meet humanitarian needs,” Nanaia Mahuta said. ...
The Government is investing over $22 million across 18 projects to improve the resilience of roads in the West Coast that have been affected by recent extreme weather, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins confirmed today. A dedicated Transport Resilience Fund has been established for early preventative works to protect the state ...
By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ French Pacific correspondent Defence ministers from several Asian and Pacific states are scheduled to meet in New Caledonia for two days during the first week of December, French Armed Forces in New Caledonia (FANC) commander General Yann Latil announced at the weekend. He added that French ...
A new Taxpayers Union – Curia poll in the Tāmaki electorate shows ACT’s Brooke van Velden mounting a strong challenge to incumbent National MP, Simon O’Connor. The two major candidates for the seat are locked in a statistical tie with 35% of ...
The Cabinet Minister was challenged on her party's record on crime, the cost of living, veterans and beneficiaries during a visit to territory normally considered a Labour heartland. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Australia’s emissions need to decline “on a much steeper trajectory” if it is to meet its declared commitment of a 43% reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050, the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and ...
“Tonight at the Taxpayer’s Union Tāmaki debate I put forward to voters why I should be the next advocate for their community in Parliament,” says ACT Deputy Leader and Tāmaki candidate Brooke van Velden. “After 63 years being represented ...
The youngest candidate in this year’s election is closing in on the Labour stronghold of Hauraki-Waikato. A Whakaata Māori exclusive poll has revealed that Te Pāti Māori newcomer, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, is just four percentage points behind Labour’s ...
The incumbent MP is just four points ahead of one of the youngest candidates in this year's general election, a poll conducted for Whakaata Māori is revealing. ...
The ACT party candidate is locked in a statistical tie with the incumbent in the previously safe National seat of Tāmaki, a new Taxpayers' Union-Curia poll reveals. ...
Following a poll last week which depicted Chlöe Swarbrick in a battle to hold on to Auckland Central, another seat in the city has been confirmed as balanced on a knife edge. In a battle among the parties of the right in Tāmaki, sitting MP Simon O’Connor leads Brooke van ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Martin, Visiting Fellow, Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University If the Reserve Bank does push up interest rates again, the most likely next date is its next board meeting, on Melbourne Cup Tuesday. The November 7 meeting is especially ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jack Francis Kelly, Honorary Research Fellow, School of the Built Environment, University of Technology Sydney The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability has shared its final report. In this series, we unpack what the commission’s 222 ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sarah Austin, Lecturer in Theatre, The University of Melbourne Sarah Walker/MTC Emerging from one of Australia’s most enduring and significant theatrical partnerships between director Susie Dee and playwright Patricia Cornelius, My Sister Jill is a contemporary homage to George Johnston’s ...
There’s been a strong outpouring on social media after it emerged that polling booths wouldn’t be handing out the orange man “I voted” stickers during this year’s election. And while many have claimed this to be a new decision, the Electoral Commission told The Spinoff the stickers weren’t actually given ...
BioTechNZ has called on the next Government to leverage the use of biotechnology to transform the economy, lift the performance of New Zealand industries, and create high-value jobs. The organisation, whose members all share a desire to maximise the ...
More than 4000 men are diagnosed and over 700 die from prostate cancer every year. That’s more than twice the road toll. Men’s lives matter too. The Prostate Cancer Foundation today welcomed statements by the National Party relating to prostate cancer ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gemma McKibbin, Senior Research Fellow, The University of Melbourne Shutterstock In its 2017 final report, the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse identified that there was no large-scale national early intervention service in Australia for people worried ...
Cyclone Gabrielle highlighted the need for better regulations on forestry, after woody debris was washed into waterways and caused widespread damage and flooding. ...
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 referendum on the Indigenous Voice to parliament will be held on October 14. A national Essential poll, conducted September 27 to ...
Time to invest in infrastructure for a modern, flourishing, resilient tomorrow. The New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils hosted its 34th AGM and Community Awards Dinner on the weekend of the 16th – 17th September 2023 in Wellington. Twenty-four ...
The first day of advance voting yesterday saw 56,557 people cast their ballots, according to the Electoral Commission. That’s a big drop on day one of advance voting in 2020, when 92,434 people took part. Given the exceptional, Covid-impacted circumstances of the last election, however, a more instructive comparison may ...
With New Zealand on track to fall 114 million tonnes short of the 2030 emissions reduction target, and billions of dollars likely needed to pay for it, political parties have debated their climate policies. ...
With New Zealand on track to fall 114 million tonnes short of the 2030 emissions reduction target, and billions of dollars likely needed to pay for it, political parties have debated their climate policies. ...
The science is clear, the effects are profound and the toll of Long Covid and reinfections can’t be ignored, writes Freya Sawbridge. On August 15, mandates ceased for masks in healthcare settings along with isolation for positive cases. That marked the end of the final two pandemic restrictions. Anyone wanting to ...
Jubi News in Jayapura Director Latifah Anum Siregar of the Democracy Alliance for Papua (ALDP) has emphasised the importance of raising awareness about human rights violations in Papua during a discussion at the launch of five Jubi Documentary films. The event took place at the St. Nicholaus Ambassador of Peace ...
· New Zealand First will put an end to the use of conscience votes in parliament and return democracy to the people. · New Zealand First has always believed that important decisions that change the social fabric of our country forever should not ...
Mike Minogue watched the new documentary on Israel Adesanya and recognised how hard it is to leave bullies behind. It would have been an entirely satisfactory piece of work. Imagine a documentary that unfolds with behind the scenes footage of the once unknown subject’s journey from utter obscurity, all the ...
The Taxpayers’ Union is questioning the Government’s decision to provide corporate welfare to the wood processing sector, both in the form of direct hand-outs and the Government playing bank manager by providing loans when this could easily be left ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jack Pascoe, Research fellow, The University of Melbourne Back to Country, CC BY-NC-ND For saltwater people of Australia’s east and west coasts, humpback whales hold important lore in the form of stories. For the Yuin people of the east ...
The cost of repairing Wellington’s Town Hall has blown out again, with projections now forecast at $250-$330 million, up from a previous estimated completion cost of $182m. The Town Hall has been closed since it was damaged in the 2013 Seddon earthquake. The first cost estimates for repairs were $43 ...
In 2020 the pandemic briefly made the media central to our politics. A debate three years on shows how much that has changed.If you want to know just how far media has fallen as an area of interest for our political class, here are some realities to consider. Act’s ...
Analysis by Dr Bryce Edwards. Political scientist, Dr Bryce Edwards. The Labour Government was elected with 50 per cent of the vote three years ago, but current opinion polls show their vote could halve in this year’s election, which would be one of the biggest plunges in political history. ...
National’s Christopher Luxon has defended his decision not to move his schedule around in order to attend a leaders’ debate in Christchurch. With Chris Hipkins testing positive for Covid-19, tonight’s Press debate can’t go ahead. Hipkins had made himself available after he leaves isolation, but Luxon said his schedule was ...
It’s Tuesday, October 3 and welcome along to The Spinoff’s election live updates. We’re now just 11 days out from polling day. I’m Stewart Sowman-Lund. Get in touch with me on [email protected]Learn more about the political parties and what they stand for at Policy.nz The agenda The ...
National is promising longer after-birth hospital stays for mothers, free glucose monitors for children with type-1 diabetes and more psychiatrist and psychologist training places. ...
Sure, it’s not over yet, but it’s time for Labour supporters to face facts: October 14 is not looking promising. Haimona Gray has some tips for how to prepare for the very real possibility of a big gut-punch loss at the polls. The year was 1999. The place was, technically, ...
The stand-off between Weet-Bix manufacturers Sanitarium and The Warehouse has ended, with confirmation today the breakfast cereal will be back in store. Last week, The Warehouse went to the Commerce Commission after being told Weet-Bix would be pulled from its stores nationwide over the weekend. The retailer claimed it was ...
Despite facing consistent financial challenges and relying on taxpayer bailouts - most recently to the tune of $220 million in May's budget - The Waikato Times has revealed a staggering $15.6 million spent on ads, PR, and publications, which includes ...
Greenpeace has welcomed Labour’s support for banning bottom trawling on seamounts but warns the ‘devil is in the detail’, reminding political leaders that meaningful ocean protection means urgently banning the method from where it does the most harm. ...
Nearly 200 FIRST Union members who work at Costco in Auckland are "setting a new standard" for the supermarket and grocery industry after ratifying the store’s first Collective Agreement, which includes starting rates above the living ...
As part of our series exploring how New Zealanders live and our relationship with money, a 22-year-old consultant with a $30,000 student loan shares where his money goes.Gender: MaleAge: 22Ethnicity: PākehāWork situation: Junior analyst for a multinational consulting firm. I get a yearly salary of $65,000. This is my first ...
Today, Maxim Institute releases our latest discussion paper, “ How AI is changing democracy: nudging, microtargeting, and epistemic bubbles. ” According to the authors, “AI brings many benefits to society that may come to affect nearly every area of ...
As recently as last week, Act leader David Seymour reaffirmed his party’s position on a referendum on co-governance, proposing “that the next government pass legislation defining the Principles of the Treaty, in particularly their effect on democratic institutions. Then ask the people to vote on it becoming law.” Christopher Luxon appeared ...
Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins has accused Christopher Luxon off "putting up roadblocks to every alternative" after Luxon said he was unavailable for a rescheduled Press Leaders' debate. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Karen Livesey, Senior Lecturer of Physics, University of Newcastle Shutterstock Each October, physics is in the news with the awarding of the Nobel Prize. The work acknowledged through this most prestigious award often seems far removed from our everyday lives, ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Graham Dwyer, Course Director, Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne University of Technology, Swinburne University of Technology Shutterstock Last year, campers had to evacuate because of floods. This year, they’re evacuating because of fire. Over Victoria’s long weekend, campers and residents ...
Covid-stricken Chris Hipkins has told RNZ he’s “on the mend” and is looking forward to being back on the campaign trail in a few days time. It’s expected Hipkins will leave his self-imposed isolation on Friday after first testing positive for the virus on Sunday. “If you look at what ...
Labour's Megan Woods, National's Simon Watts and the Greens' James Shaw are taking part in a live climate debate on Morning Report. Follow live updates with RNZ's blog here. ...
Sir Peter Gluckman has described New Zealand as a “potentially more fractured society”, and it’s becoming clear access to politicians is now compromised as reports of violence and intimidation grow, writes Anna Rawhiti-Connell in this excerpt from The Bulletin, The Spinoff’s morning news round-up. To receive The Bulletin in full ...
Labour says it will do more to help new players enter the grocery market, but one of the mid-size existing players thinks the idea is too expensive and unlikely to succeed. ...
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Linda Mussell, Lecturer, Political Science and International Relations, University of Canterbury The promise to “get tough on youth crime” is a New Zealand election perennial. This year, parties on both the left and right have pledged to crack down on young offenders ...
National Party volunteers have stopped campaigning in Auckland's Manurewa because they have allegedly been chased down the street and threatened with abuse, according to candidate Siva Kilari. ...
There's concern at a Cabinet decision, in the shadow of election, to increase its lending to $50m and set up ski field for private ownership Two businessmen have welcomed a Government green light for them to take over Turoa ski field. Speaking from Singapore in a gap between business meetings, ...
New achievement data shows Labour’s shameful legacy in education with around half of Year 10 students falling basic reading, writing and maths tests, National’s Education spokesperson Erica Stanford says. “The 2023 NCEA Literacy and Numeracy ...
Reports of physical and verbal threats against those running for office could lead to fewer opportunities for the public to interact directly with MPs, reports Stewart Sowman-Lund.It’s long been an accepted tenet of New Zealand’s political system that candidates and MPs, particularly during election campaigns, are easily accessible to ...
The electorate formerly known as Dunedin North has almost always voted Labour, and last election the Greens outperformed National. But no matter who represents it, contentious questions about the university and hospital will remain.On a dripping grey Friday several hundred students walked past blossoming trees and the muddy brown ...
This year’s election marks the 30th anniversary of the referendum to change to the MMP voting system. Michael Swanson analyses the impact it has had and urges the next government to act on the 2023 Independent Electoral Review and make changes for the better.Comment: In 1993, New Zealand chose ...
It’s been known for over a century that the East Coast was vulnerable to erosion. But over that time decisions have been made that have continued to make it worse and now it’s at a catastrophic turning point that could decide the future of the region. Aaron Smale continues a ...
They’ve shaped online marketing for 20 years, but global concerns over privacy mean third-party cookies are due to be phased out next year. For those who have built their businesses on this low-cost, high-reach technology, it’s a revolution. Join Peter Bale for the third part of our six-episode podcast Digital tomorrow: ...
An author and climate change activist asks, 'Will we act to save ourselves, like the people of Mataura acted?' Mataura was built on the principle that the Mataura River knew its place. It flowed into the north end of town, that long straggle of houses that began somewhere around Cardigan ...
On our election day, Australians are also going to the polls. But their referendum, which has been more divisive and controversial than any election campaign, will be more significant than just a change of government. The fate of 3 percent of Australia's population is in the hands of 25 million as ...
China critiques universal human rights in favour of regional variations, suggesting New Zealand is wrong to be critical of human rights concerns in Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and China more generallyOpinion: Earlier this year, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) published a forward-looking strategic foreign policy assessment. ...
Just an IMHO to start a Sunday morning:
The next 2 to 5 years could (will) prove to be tumultuous ones for the globe and New Zealand: a series of crises will wrack the very foundations of civilised society (and of all life) – the on-going pandemic, a long-overdue economic meltdown and the worst of them all, climate change on an escalating scale.
No country will deal with all three successfully, and that includes this isolated little ‘hermit kingdom,’ but I believe that at least, Jacinda Ardern and this Labour government will attempt to govern for all NZers when the shit hits the fan.
Like all governments ours will attempt to do too little, too late; that’s just the nature of the political beast. Radical change, really radical change is needed, but such change would not be supported by the good old ‘general public’ until the crises bite them on their collective arses, and then they’ll complaint ‘the government should have done something.
But at least I think Labour will try to act in the interests of all NZers. Andrew Beecroft, speaking on NatRadio the other morning said Michael Joseph Savage described the creation of the welfare state as ‘applied Christianity.’ The Natz opposition of the time labelled it ‘applied lunacy,’ and that just about sums up the difference between the two general political philosophies; the left will generally act in the interests of the collective good, the right for ‘individual freedoms.’ The ‘dancing Cossacks,’ the mother of all budgets, tax cuts for the rich are just some examples of the sectional interests of the right.
Things are going to go pretty pear-shaped in the near future (and don’t hold your breath over COP-26) and it won’t be pleasant, but with the Natz and Act in power it would have been an absolute fucking disaster.
A good practical example of this is the Three Waters legislation. We have a water crisis in this country which can’t be fixed by piecemeal uncoordinated changes by indebted local councils. Labour and Nania recognise this and have proposed major reforms (in the interests of all NZers). The rights’ response: government theft of our assets, which is a pretty meaningless thing to say. Remember Nick Smith and ‘wadeable rivers?’ Fw Luxon said the Natz would repeal any changes Labour makes – then what? Wait until we have little drinkable water left in this country which only the rich can afford?
The future looks dark indeed, but with a slightly left leaning, kind government, things might just be bearable in this country. At least, that is what I hope!
Nice try TV, it would be great if your scenario plays out.
I fear that minimal, middle-of-the-road compromises just ain't gonna cut it for dealing with what is about to confront our neolib society on so many fronts. We are in for an unpredictable and probably unprecedented harsh ride.
Climate change, economic instability and living with an endemic virus, just one of these requires a huge budget and sensible leadership.
I would also add providing affordable housing and having a health system which meets the needs of the population. People need to learn how to become more self sufficient as well.
This feels like the day we hit 200 cases per day.
It is bound to happen at some stage.
Perhaps. But the outbreak has to peak at some point, and there are only so many unvaccinated muppets in Auckland for this disease to burn through.
(Auckland does not have general community transmission. This is an outbreak running through a very specific subset of society, one that seems to only have minor leakage into the rest of Auckland).
I realise I am a complete outlyer. And am probably talking pants, but have never been able to understand why instead of shutting down the entire country to shield the vulnerable who might get it, we aren't doing it the other way round and just shielding the vulnerable and just getting on with shit.
Imagine effectively imprisoning south Auckland into a single massed camp. You're describing Johannesburg.
We've been as civil and humane as possible by not doing what you propose.
You mean rather than imprisoning the entire city of Auckland?
Indeed I do.
I just think inconvenience to as fewer people as possible is better than everyone.
I don't even live in Auckland and am living in relative normality in Welly.
Just found it odd you would close off a whole city to shield vulnerable people, rather than just shielding the vulnerable.
Wouldn't be South Auckland btw. It would be those that are older with existing health conditions. The rest just get it and get over it in the vast majority.
Yeas I realise the odd healthy person has died. They also get hit by trucks and die of cancer
The vast majority are still affected by a collapse of the Health System. New Zealand has very little ICU capacity.
Would prefer not to get started on a convo' about ICU's and this govt, as will end up banned, but agree. I guess. Better safe than sorry.
Wish govts would say stuff straight up though. We need you vaxed to not screw the health system, rather than the touchy feely stuff.
It's not South Auckland, and hasn't been for some time. The geographical epicentre is West Auckland, and as noted, it's not a matter of general transmission. If it were, there would be far more Pasifika cases.
Point applies for any sub-area of Auckland.
The point overlooks that we're not taking geography here. There is no area of Auckland that matches the outbreak – Auckland is 11% Maori, not 45-55% Maori, and the places that have more Maori than Pasifika (as this outbreak does) tend to have very few of either. It's the absence of Pacific Island cases that is the real clue here.
You're dealing with a community subset that is not in one place.
The disease can screw up younger people too, especially if they're unvaccinated.
The real problem possibility is that Covid patients would take up so many of NZ's ICU beds that we actually see a collapse of the health system. Good luck getting a bed if you're a (fully vaccinated) survivor of a car crash.
"just shielding the vulnerable and just getting on with shit."
Vulnerable people:
Please explain how all those people can be shielded from covid in the community. I’m really curious to hear the details.
"Shielding the vulnerable" sounds great and oh so principled. But what it would mean in practice is devolving responsibility onto the vulnerable themselves by placing them at such risk that they voluntarily stay home while everyone else gets to gad about (including any non-vulnerable people they might live with). i.e. in practice it means not shielding them at all.
Truly shielding the vulnerable is actually being their human shield by getting vaccinated and observing public health restrictions like mask-wearing, social-distancing, staying away from crowded places and generally not gadding about. Which is actually what we are doing now.
So people who advocate" shielding the vulnerable" actually mean un-shielding the vulnerable. Many have a horror or incomprehension of collective responsibility because so many minds have been contaminated by 30 years of neolib obsession with 'personal responsibility'. And tbh I am now getting pretty effed off by the whole scene and the intellectual and moral depravity being spewed out all over the place.
Exactly.
Also vulnerable people:
Its not just nana and gramps heading for the retirement home (and they deserve a full life too) It's dozens of people you come into contact with in all sorts of places.
also:
Does the MoH not count the immune-suppressed? I think they include them if they're on certain medications? They're included in the 3rd primary vaccine dose.
Immune compromised yes, auto immune no. There are a bunch of other chronic illnesses also not included. MoH are basically useless on chronic illness unless it’s one of the heart, lung, kidney ones.
it’s also why the Dr Googles on TS feel entitled to make claims about risk eg almost no-one is at risk from the vaccine. They’re pig ignorant. Afaik the research just hasn’t been done.
I've said before here NZ is blessed with world leading Professor Ed Game, part of the team that gave us the cure for hep C a chronic liver disease caused by a virus, his team here tell me the risks of covid far out weigh the risk of the vaccine. Pig ignorant he is not.
please reread my comment. I'm not saying don't vax. You've misunderstood my point.
"Immune compromised yes, auto immune no"
That's interesting. I see these as pretty much the same (because both apply to me), but now you mention it, I can see there might be a few differences.
I see it as low immunity (compromised), and overactive immune system (auto-immune), but agree it's more complex than that.
How to make sense of this: Many of those with autoimmune disorders are given medications which suppress their immune systems which leave them 'immunocompromised' and vulnerable to infections including COVID.
"unvaccinated muppets" reminds me of Dr Gray's "social defectives". We need to think hard about where this could lead us.
https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/AS19271118.2.179?items_per_page=10&phrase=2&query=eugenics+board&snippet=true
A short lived Eugenics Board was established in NZ in 1928.
http://www.nathaniel.org.nz/single-mothers-are-saints/15-bioethical-issues/bioethics-and-health-care/352-eugenics-in-new-zealand-synopsis-only
Calling the unvaccinated muppets is not analogous to arguing for the sterilisation of the disabled. Being unvaccinated is a choice.
So why did you write "unvaccinated muppets" and not "people who choose not to be vaccinated" ? It might further alienate people you want jabbed.
Because if you choose not to be vaccinated, you're a muppet?
Such people should not be treated as having made a socially acceptable decision.
With 5000? "freedom'? marchers I think in two to four days Ad.
There is still a gulf of mistrust in many Rotorua Maori, but this new targeted approach is having success. Although some are resistant they are talking now. They say the new "kindness" leaves them suspicious, as that usually proceeds someone wanting something.
We are in some cases reaping what we have sown. I hope these fears and resulting mistrust can be overcome before the virus gets into their community. As one lady said, "it will be endless tangihanga." Being angry won't help this. It is sad.
This isn't simply about poverty. Pasifika have solid vaccination rates. Nor is it about anti-Maori racism. Elderly Maori are vaccinated too, as are Maori in Wellington and the South Island.
There is, unfortunately, something going through younger, upper North Island Maori that makes them vulnerable to such nuttery. The only thing that is being "wanted" here is for these people to save their own lives, and the lives of their elders.
A life time of being told all their problems are caused by the white man is what's going on
" Nor is it about anti-Maori racism"
ironically, anti-pakeha racism is a significant driver here!
If you're looking for Editorial trouble you'll probably find it.
oops I did not mean "here" as in thestandard rather as in "in this case"
A wee bit of something to cheer about.
New Zealand overcome a spirited Wales in the second half to put 50 points on the Welsh at home for the first time.
Wales lost their talisman leader Alun Wyn Jones, early in the first half, to a troublesome shoulder injury. AB highlights include Beaden Barrett scoring two tries and winning man of the match in his 100th game. Best try was to Seevu Reece after the ball changed hands several times down the left flank.
Interest turns to the Black Ferns with nine debutants against a very strong England team tomorrow morning.
Wales were missing 20 players the AB's were playing the reserves.
The ABS and Beauden in particular were like a Harlem Globetrotters tour.
Got to love the spirit of the Welsh. Their singing of their anthem is so stirring and heartfelt. They love their country and their rugby.
Not even Covid will stop a rugby test match in Wales.
Anti vaxxer protesters in NZ will not let their view stop them mingling in large numbers either.
The upcoming Labour Conference remit to change how the leader of the party is selected is given a once-over by Andrea Vance.
Labour without Jacinda Ardern is unthinkable – but that's just what the party is doing | Stuff.co.nz
If Ardern could just win us the next one I’d be fine if Roberston took over a few months in from there I prefer him anyway.
Given that due due mmp,our election s have basically become a presidential style election, it would be deeply dishonest for labour to win the election with Ardern at the top then quickly change leaders!
This term she's little more than a health ministry robot.
A handover after the 2024 budget would be fine.
Nah, if she had enough, of if her party has enough of her, she can simply not run and be honest. I hear honesty and integrity are such important things in a politician.
not sure that Ardern wants out so much as Ad wants her to be.
So you would be ok if the country gets fooled by Labour into voting for Jacinda again, just for her to resign to spend more time with the family and make way for Robertson.
Wow. Nevermind the people that in that scenario would have voted for her. To me that would be bordering on fraud on the voting puplic. If she is done with the job, say so, early enough and let Labour run on whom ever they put out. If they are doing such a good job, they should have no issue being voted in again. If no, they did not do as good a job as you might imagine.
anything to win, ey?
I don't know, the idea that Labour might dump Ardern and replace her with 'neoliberal to my core' GR after the election just made me much more interested in pre-election post writing 😈
The party is formally signaling how it transitions its leadership. Key did it much better than Clark, Shipley or Bolger.
Labour is being perfectly open about it. In fact that's why Vance did her cumn about the Conference remit.
This is not about transitioning leadership,
this is about pretending to run a candidate for an office that that particular candidate then is not going to hold cause they transition after the win into private life rather then do the job they were elected for.
If you want people to get even more cynical about Labour and their doodahs that would be the best way to go.
Vote for Jacinda, Get Grant boy! 2023
Yeah, nah nah.
Vote third party, cause the two big ones are insufferable in their contempt of he tangata.
No pretending if it's in the open. Simply a mature party discussion.
So Labour would tell voters before the election that Ardern is going to resign after the election and GR would replace her?
Oh shhh, this is just a mature discussion of how the public can be fooled/lied/cheated/cajoled/ into ordering one thing and then getting delivered something altogether different, but sadly there will be no right to return, nor will the Labour party accept any complaints from upset voters.
Vote Labour – It don't matter who runs, It just matters who wins. 2023
"Key did it much better than Clark, Shipley or Bolger."
really – based on what exactly ?
Having a succession plan.
And national are still paying the price of keys succession plan .
English lost by not much. Can't plan for an Ardern-superstar.
and you wonder why people stop paying attention and voting.
Cynical. Running for PM and then three month in giving it over to the one who would not have won is cheating. Frankly if the Labour Party knows it can't win on the calibre of its staff, than maybe it needs to start hiring better people.
Out in the open. Yeah, right Tui.
but i will file this under another reason not to vote for this lot.
The cynicism only comes from the Green Party of which you seem so keen to support.
The Greens' leader James Shaw has flown to the most important climate conference in a decade, with zero plan for our country. Even though it's the only thing he had any responsibility to do, and he has made a career out of climate change advocacy.
The Greens have minimal profile despite the whole of the global MSM are pouring climate change stories out faster than you can speak. It was supposed to be something they could do.
The Green's conference is largely held in secret.
The Greens currently oppose the water reforms, according to Sage's media release.
The Greens haven't even bothered to support light rail in Auckland this week.
The Greens are otherwise in charge of nothing, and act like it.
And when the government needs them to assist in a progressive agenda, they run like the fucking political weaklings they are.
The Greens are bumping along around 6-7%, when they were equal with Act just months ago. Act are now challenging National for leadership. Imagine if the Greens had the competence or courage to challenge Labour like Act has National. Greens simply don't have competent leadership to compete.
Instead, the Greens have a very good shot at simply not getting into parliament next time. So it's always amusing to see people like you complain and complain and complain when the only party in parliament that is failing is the Green Party.
I know you don't like the Greens, because they challenge your third way, Blairite world view.
However what are the Greens supposed to do, when the media refuse to publish and ignore everything they say or do, while blaring out like a trumpet, every national party "barking at passing cars" press release and every vapid propaganda meme from the twerking fool?
Not to mention Labour adopting Green policies. Which may not help the Greens visibility, but are still Green achievements.
Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean nothing is happening.
Greens don’t have millions to spend on social media propaganda campaigns. Like the current ones from right wing puppets, including the Tax dodgers Union.
(Greens only accept funding from individuals, not companies or other organisations).
Based on what, that Sabine criticises this Labour policy? You should see what she says about the Greens.
Meanwhile. Government pledges 50 percent emission reduction by 2030 (msn.com)
Not enough, but a start.
Wait for the chorus of condemnation from the usual suspects.
KJT I guess Shaw could have loudly said ,fuck going to copout 26 because this country's not doing much other than rearrange the deck cheers with the foolish ets, and countries like india are committed to burning coal for decades , .
lol, i support the Green? Since when? Because i voted for them many years back in the past? Because i gave some losing greeny a vote because i could not and will not vote for the Labour Quota Woman Jacinda Ardern? Good grief. That is just now pathetic.
Honey, as it stands and as i have stated before, i will neither vote L, N, G. There is not enough money and love in the world that would compel me to rubberstamp anyone of these overpaid and rather useless muppets.
So please. Take a step back.
I don't hear that being said by anyone but you Sabine.
But then you have ruled out all parties except Act as far as I can see. So you would say that.
I think Jacinda Ardern has more integrity than that. Just because you don't like her and the Government doesn't give you the right to say untrue things. You constantly look for a stick to beat them with.
"Cheating/ Fraud" Get over your self. It has not happened it will not happen. Parties change their rules quite regularly.
With people like you, damned if they do alter rules and damned if they don't.
You are building bridges for non-existent rivers!!
I think Jacinda and Grant are a great team, as they have agreed goals for NZ. Bit by bit they are changing the levers.
No one is challenging Jacinda Ardern. This meme (Jacinda will retire) has appeared in right wing comments lately. Shades of utter desperation. They have gone from "anyone but JC" to "JA needs to leave as Luxton could compete with Robertson" imo.
There's no doubt they are an outstanding team, doing a good job in very trying circumstances.
Auckland dams have hit 96% full which is a good setup for summer.
Did council ever remove the long standing water restrictions ?
Most removed on 23rd of October.
Will they still need Waikato water? Enough rivers have lost their ability to "sing"
Yes and relying on it ever more.
Q&A today
1st impression – Get Judge Andrew Breecroft to me a minister – He has more passion and would have greater urgency into fixing the problems that Labour has so often promised to do. He would be action other than just words we hear.
Our minister of Health failed at the end of his interview with his dodging from "The way we manage this virus is keeping people safe," well allowing a 2000 group activity a few weeks ago expand to 5000. Is that the way we are now managing this.
FFS Andrew Little can he not make more light weight excuses for any senior government ministers from visiting Auckland. "There are restrictions in place into getting into and out of Auckland", and then "its about not looking like swanning in and out and our life carries on..", are you guys that superficial ?? Perhaps you don't want to hear and see what you would face should senior govt minister would be confronted with reality.
Beecroft was very, very good.
You do like to misrepresent Labour Govt. ministers at every opportunity don't you. Never mind the context, just so long as you can deride and sneer through a false lens.
Andrew Little was asked a question along the lines… why doesn't Jacinda Ardern and her ministers visit Auckland? It was a mischievous question designed to create an impression that the don't care about Auckland.
First:
The moment they started gallivanting in and out of Auckland the screams from Collins and that pipsqueak, Seymour would reach a crescendo… how dare they come and go as they please while the rest of us are not allowed in or out without special exemptions. One rule for them and another for the rest of us.
Second:
Jacinda Ardern and her senior ministers have a duty to remain in Wellington while the country is going through one of the the most serious crisis in our history. They must be on tap 24/7 to speak with the experts etc., and be able to make instant decisions as emergencies arise.
They are the ones confronting reality – not the likes of Herodotus and Co. Their colleagues in Auckland are working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can. They don't need to come here to know what is going on.
What's more, I don't want them to. Neither do most other reasonable people. They have more than enough to do in Wellington trying to look after the whole country in unprecedented times.
A so-called journalist writes an opinion piece claiming that Jacinda might be moving on and immediately there are messages here from agitated people who think that opinion is now fact. Bad enough reading the local neighbourhood pages and seeing all the misinformation and abuse spewing out there – always optimistic that there was more intelligence on this site. Fake news is fake news ; we should recognise it for what it is and give it no time or oxygen.
"Jacinda Ardern and her senior ministers have a duty to remain in Wellington while the country is going through one of the the most serious crisis in our history. They must be on tap 24/7 to speak with the experts etc., and be able to make instant decisions as emergencies arise."
Ardern has been pottering all over during October ……. Hawkes Bay, Poverty Bay, Lakes district. that being said can't see the point of her travelling to Auckland it's not as if she can do anything useful here.
From memory she spent about a week in the East Coast region. They were well behind the ball game and needed a booster which she was able to provide. That was a useful exercise and she was never that far from Wellington had an emergency arisen. As you say, there's nothing she can do here in Auckland that is not already happening.
Agree.
It's Ardern and key leadership that are holding this country together. Keeping that leadership safe and functioning is our highest national security risk.
Herald has "Heather Du Plessis-Allan: Jacinda Ardern must visit Auckland."
Following in the headline is "few in Wellington understand the pain."
I'd suggest that many in New Zealand don't understand the pain – the pain of Covid hitting and how it has hit around the world. By rights we should have had many hundreds of thousands of cases and uncomfortably more than ten thousand deaths.
We're largely inured to the reality of how it is and has been globally. We don't know how lucky we are and we're sure as hell ain't going to stop whingeing and making out that our lot is worse than anywhere else.
And note: it is advocates of right-wing neoliberal philosophy – of which HDPA is a member- who are doing all the whingeing and moaning. It never ceases to amaze me these selfish, self-centred pseudo journos are still spreading their lies and innuendo without any consequences whatsoever.
If I had my way they would have been banned from all media platforms by now. I guess its just as well I never get my way. 😉
I think Brian Priestly would have agreed with you.
Media standards are now unimaginably low – the current crop of churnalists are lower than a worm's soul – they make used cars dealers look like saints.
Thank you for reminding me of Brian Priestly. Now there was a journalist of real stature. He was one of a stack of them who were prominent in the 60s,70s and the 80s – Priestly, Ian Johnston, Ian Templeton to name just three. I've forgotten the names of the others but they really show up the current bunch (with a few exceptions of course) for the cowardly ignoramuses they are.
I quoted Little's response, how is that misrepresenting ?I notice your reply had no reference to Littles response, perhaps you are being selective !!! And his 2 reasons for not visiting Auckland were shallow at best. But I am sure for you either of these 2 excuses are fully justified.
"They are the ones confronting reality – not the likes of Herodotus and Co." Funny as I live in Auckland, I am experiencing & confronting reality.
"Their colleagues in Auckland are working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can. They don't need to come here to know what is going on." Well that is not true – Go to food banks and those community assistance groups there are great people doing this with no sight or assistance of any Ak MP's But some of us are able to give and still get attacked for making observations from those like you sitting firing darts
Why do food banks and social services need first hand assistance from MPs and their teams ? Great for photo opportunities – yes – of but practical assistance ? There has been generous extra emergency food funding in Auckland and I've had no problems getting nutritious good sized food parcels delivered to clients in need. Food banks and social services prepare regular statistical / info reports which are sent on to all stakeholders / local MPs etc.
We are fast approaching Christmas – And from my experience this time of year results in increased needs that are not there during the rest of the year. These are met to some degree and give a ray of sunshine how communities support those in need e.g. Community Christmas lunch/dinner, Sourcing & distribution of Christmas food, providing a moment of enjoyment and presents for the children etc will these be an option this year with Covid (Last year there was no restrictions) ?
This time of year there is an increase in people seeking help with their mental welfare, and that this need will be larger than ever (Many who help out are already themselves under stress due to their working in Health and Education)?
By being there you can view stress of helpers/those in need, see hardship, see food stocks or lack of. Just get a feel of how things are, that are unable to be expressed by a phone call, a email, info reports etc.
Maybe they can be shamed into finally accepting that people are doing it hard. I know its hard to understand on a 6 figure income but people are doing it hard.
Never mind, next year in April the Labour Party will again very generously trickle a few pennies down on the deserving poor.
Anne, Lol We are allowed to "stew" and wish them "gone" though
Herodotus, Do you know who supplied the money for the foodbanks? Or is that "being selective". NZ knows how hard this has been, and support all the assistance the Government has supplied. They have done this through familiar agencies to avoid "Oh you are just vote buying". I have not seen anyone querying any of that support. Andrew Little is not a front person, he is not glib and always tries to answer sometimes loaded questions. He is an honest man, journalists thought they had all disappeared.
The comment was a response from MY experience towards what I have seen and heard to Anne and her "Never mind the context, just so long as you can deride and sneer through a false lens." and "..working their guts out keeping them informed and assisting Aucklanders wherever they can."
And why do you ask "who supplied the money for the foodbanks" in some cases I do know where some of the food and other goods have come from: great anonymous individuals and companies.
"Andrew Little is not a front person.." Still we can only go by his answers and in this case both were poor.
Below is what you said @ 6
That was a disingenuous response to the Little interview. I answered your claims of his supposed "light weight excuses" and "superficial" response more than adequately @ 6.2.
I do not believe you are a genuine commenter on this site. Your frequent snide references – often couched in the same kind of disingenuous wording as this latest example – lead me to suspect you are really a troll. Your next step will no doubt be to claim victimhood at my expense. 🙄
So these 2 reasons for not travelling to Auckland; One that has been countlessly been solved by many travellers flying here to Auckland in level 3, and the other isn't a reason precluding travel that of possible perception of "swanning ". Your excuses for Littles answers do not IMO cover it, and are totally inadequate. Should you consider me a troll then perhaps a little depth in your response could test that out, that could be asking too much to defend the indefensible as to why traveling to Auckland ins unable to happen.
Some could read your comments that if commentators don't follow your view of the world then they are not welcome.
So you cover yourself regarding me claiming victim hood then you come back with this “As a senior citizen who lives in Auckland and has been very adversely affected by the lockdown” Who are you to say that to , are you that privileged that we all should be on our knees towards you, you are not the only one that this lockdown has had an effect on,perhaps you should consider others ??
Spare me the pathos please. Who is throwing the darts? YOU ARE.
How do you know the AK Labour MPs are not out there working their guts out for their affected constituents? Just because they are not swanning around in front of TV cameras like some others we know doesn't mean they are not flat tack. Some of those especially Sth Auckland way must be in a state of exhaustion by now.
As for your offensive comment about "sitting firing darts". As a senior citizen who lives in Auckland and has been very adversely affected by the lockdown, I take deep offence at such a comment. It only serves to confirm my observations about you.
The political purpose behind anti-vax protests – click on text in tweet to see uncropped version.
https://twitter.com/AndreAlessi/status/1454289541167136772
They just pretend it's not about politics.
I would have thought that was obvious. And lots of political action is similar.
All of political action is like that. That is what being an activist generally means. Make a noise, create good trouble and hopefully bring about change.
Yep. Primary tactic of XR is causing disruption.
More on the anti-authority opportunists glomming onto vaccination for now.
https://twitter.com/KyleDChurch/status/1454637666314506242
Why would anyone be surprised…
https://twitter.com/DylanReeve/status/1454571314958647296
Wow!! What a picture of selfish people. All pushing money, trying to cloak it as 1. religion 2. hospitality 3. food production. Bugger Health. Self Interest first by them. imo.
Did they post the next shot where they joined hands and it looked likea crooked cross?
Anything that splits the old farming lobby apart is good for this country right now.
Their stupidity aligning with Antivaxxers and Destiny Church will push Big Ag towards government.
Government will need them with both carbon and water reforms.
Big Ag aren't that keen on the Groundswell mob, especially the two big co-ops.
And lots of questions about where the money is coming from.
If the water reforms are to have a shot, the farmer lobby needs to be actively smashed.Those who quibble with the legislation proposed (and I've been one) will figure the colossal risk to our country of failing.
Yes there is such a thing as "too far from reality".
As long as it is remembered that everything cities rely upon moves along roads and highways with Farmers along both sides and that cities are surrounded by farmers. The very water people rely upon comes from the country and crosses farms … Their cows already piss in this ……
The (un)Holy Trinity threatening this country.
Evangelical Christianity, big money capitalism, and profit-driven agriculture.
Slash wages, impose the Bible and pollute our rivers.
This is what we are up against.
NZ evangelical Christianity has good media training but near-zero actual or institutional power.
This government has intervened into our version of capitalism more than at any other time outside of a major war.
How they deal to the dairy industry is fully in play now.
This article by Florence Kerr really resonated with me. In their own words –
Covid-19 vaccination: How mistrust shadows the roll-out in a time of crisis
Enderley – this is where I grew up. This is where I saw our neighbours go into State care after their parents (Pākehā mother and Māori father, and my mother Pākehā) disappeared on us. After a couple of weeks of us tearing up the neighbourhood, the authorities turned up to round up our families – 6 of us and 5 of them). By pure luck my Dad had just cycled home from work, that Saturday afternoon. The authorities asked “who claims these children?” so Dad claimed us. There was no-one to claim our friends.
Both their parents are now dead and there are only two of their children left now – the first gone at just 18 – booze, drugs, accidents. I caught up with the youngest a couple of years ago at my sister’s funeral (booze, drugs, delayed and denied healthcare). This neighbour's kid has done ok (was fostered to a good family, rather than going to a social welfare unit like her siblings), as have half of my family.
There should be no expectation that the lives we had are going to be inevitably repeated – unless of course, your main interactions are with people in positions of power whose main objective seems to be to keep you down. What it does mean is that any interaction you have with government departments and health and education workers is complicated and requires a lot of compliance for us and a lot of ‘should’ and ‘will’ from them. The alternative to compliance is some form of punishment, there is no autonomy.
Typically, being brown is a signifier for authorities to start with the ‘comply’ rather than the ‘ask’ in any interaction. I’ve not had such a hard time as the neighbours, I’m so white (whiter even than my siblings) my nickname was Milky (or fly-spot due to the freckles). OTOH I was asked once, before I got a smack around the face and a spew of abuse, if I was Māori, because our address and our situation was what all ‘good’ Pākehā think of as a Māori “lifestyle” (liberal intelligentsia who have no belief that a white person from the precariat might succeed at university, I’m looking at you). I’ve escaped all that now and have a cynical (on my part), but relatively good engagement with health and education workers because they have no clue about my background.
When Māori vaccination rates, or naming the communities most affected by this outbreak, come up in conversation in my polite society; and all the intellectual discussions abound, I generally go with the line that it’s simply a big middle-finger to authority – and a well-deserved f*ck you! to politicians, doctors, and educators at that. Florence Kerr's article highlights this view. My family members who didn’t escape also give the one-finger salute to them, as well as swearing by their alternative wellness strategies.
This article is why I’m so frustrated with the government not going with the spirit of the health reforms. How easy would it have been to have someone from Māori Health Authority interim board to be standing up with Dr Bloomfield and the politicians at the beginning of the Delta outbreak and vaccination drive?
I don’t know if playing catch-up with the brilliant work that’s happening on the ground is enough at this stage, but it’s the best hope we’ve got. All strength to the workers doing this job and to the people they care about. As for the police, the government, teachers and healthcare authorities, playing nice from time to time does not make for structural change in attitudes and perceptions. The rest of us should recognise that before having a go at people in the (politely-named) high risk groups who "don't understand / don't care."
They understand all right. Allowing them some future to care about is a whole other matter.
Very thought provoking Mirovox. I can see where you are coming from and understand why these oppressed people are middle-fingering authority. It is just sad that they may get very sick for not having the vaccination. The roll-out needed to be done by their own people and yes, they should have been represented alongside Dr Bloomfield right from the beginning.
Also, we now need somebody/organisation to get alongside the mentally unwell who also do not trust authority but I fear the mental health industry would be the last representation these people need – they don't trust anybody. How do we vaccinate these unfortunate people who live on the margins of society.
It's called 'cutting your nose off to spite your face '
Nah – it's cutting off their nose to spite your face, at worst.
I consider it more akin to workers go on strike for a living wage.
Thanks, and yes, I agree with your comment about getting alongside the mentally unwell. No doubt there is some commonalities in the two groups.
Thank you for sharing your experience, very pertinent to understanding the way "hesitancy" by many.
Thank you Mirovax. A good post, so much more explanatory than my effort
Yes, I would like to add my thanks to Miravox too. If only more people took time out to understand the reasons behind the mistrust – some of which has been handed down through generations of maltreatment at the hands of officialdom.
End of life choice bill kicking in at the end of the week.
About time.
Could probably do with an article on it, not that I am good enough at the old English to write it meself 🙂
The police have completly balls up their handling off the anti-vax protests. Despite strong public support for a hard line of enforcement they opted for a softly softly light hand and for supine inaction when confronted with bad faith. They've sent a clear message you can get away with breaching health orders with impunity – indeed, if you are a leader of Christian cult you can even breach your bail conditions with impunity. As a result lawless mobs have grown in size from 1000 to 2000 to 5000.
I think the time has come for for velvet glove to come off and iron fist of the state to start showing these anti-vaxxers what teeth the state actually has, before these groups morph into nascent and then actual domestic terrorist groups with an agenda of directly challenging the governments authority.
The police needs to start detaining the organisers unders section 71A of the health act and where appropriate domestic agencies charged with counter-terrorism need to step up surveillance, with appropriate arrests made if evidence of planning or inciting attacks is found. Dismantle these groups now. They've made plain they'll operate with zero good faith to any promises they make to law enforcement agencies (who in their right mind negotiates with fanatics assuming they'll behave in good faith anyway? The police have been naive idiots). Direct FB to ban their pages – FB will comply if given a direct request from the NZ Police. Get serious about shutting down these troublemakers and COVID Quislings.
Personally, if Sue Grey and Brian and Hannah Tamaki and all the rest 20-30 or so organisers spend to next six months held incommunicado at the Queens pleasure I won’t shed a single tear.
And here is the latest:
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/454606/vaccination-centre-vandalised-staff-threatened
They choose a Centre for South Pacific people which suggests to me racism might also be involved.
If that doesn't get the police into hard action I don't know what will.
Well thats the problem isn't it – these groups are unappeasable, a bewildering alliance of quacks, grifters, wellness crackpots, conspiracy theorists, fascists and extreme libertarians united by only their narcissism at being really, really put out at beingask to comply with a basic piece of public health or suffer consequences.
They are fanatics who see themselves on some sort of crusade. They only option is to crush them out of hand with arrests, detentions and the like.
Been my sentiment for a long time now. For God's sake do it government and police. Stop pussy footing around with them!
Barbara the vege shop lady told me she's been verbally harassed by anti-vaxxers.
Well heeled ladies of of a particular wellness persuasion traveling in a premium marque entered her shop and inquired about her vaccination status. When she enlightened them they took to her, telling her that not only was she a danger to them, because shedding, apparently, but that she was going to die along with every other vaccinated person.
Barbara's 70 in the shade and would have given them a proper serve when she ever so politely asked them to F right O. Arseholes still upset her, though.
She should have taken their car reg. no. and passed it on to the police. I have a pad and pen in my glove box for that purpose should I see anti-vaxxers harassing and abusing people.
you want them reported to the police for what exactly?
Scum thought it was okay to harass a septuagenarian in her workplace.
Should she wait until they turn up outside her home?
Can you not tell where the boundaries are?
Anne was referring to your story of people in a shop having a political argument. That's different than someone being threatened and needing security. You can demonise and other the range of people fucked off about covid response, and treat them as one big lot of scum, and they will just get stronger.
And, if you want people you disagree with arrested for arguing politics, then you can't object when that happens to you or people you agree with. Do you want democracy or not? Time for the left to deal with its authoritarian shit before this gets out of hand.
Read Joe90 @11.1.2.
If you think a group of women (in this case) have the right to enter a retail premise with the express purpose of seeking out the retailer's vaccination status and then harassing and threatening them because of that status… then I am astonished.
It is becoming increasingly concerning that many of these anti vaxxers seem to think they have the right to accost anyone they like whenever they like and harass and intimidate them as much as they like. They need to be caught and arrested as an example to anyone else who thinks it is okay to behave in such a way.
So you want people to be arrested for this. On what charge?
And will you then be ok if other protestors are arrested? How about climate protestors?
if the shop owner feels intimidated by the actions of those women, then tresspass them.
There's nothing in Joe's story to suggest that they were harassing beyond being rude and dickheads.
Maybe you need to spend a bit of time in Auckland weka. The police's relative leniency against the hard-core anti-vaxxers has emboldened them to take actions that are heading towards dangerous levels. Only yesterday a South Pacific vaccination Medical Centre in Auckland had its front windows smashed in.
I find it amusing that some people here (and elsewhere) pleaded with the pro -vaccine citizens ( the vast majority of the population) to "go easy" on the anti-vaxxers etc. It was assumed we would be the ones who would become aggressive.
The truth has turned out to be the opposite. It is the crazies embedded in the anti-vax movement who are committing the offences and it is only going to get worse unless the police start taking a hard line on them.
Ok, so you want NZ to be a police state, arresting people on political grounds without any legal basis. Got it.
Maybe the Police should actually get vaccinated first before we send them into houses to arrest 'un-cooperative' citizens.
what's the connection specifically with terrorism?
I'm fine with arresting people breaching the orders (not wearing masks, not social distancing). Cracking down on protesting is a really bad idea, the ability to protest is intrinsic to democracy.
'
"But New Zealand cannot get there with domestic reductions alone. In fact, a full two-thirds will have to be purchased from other countries at a cost of about a billion dollars a year.
Shaw said the preference was to work with developing countries in the Asia Pacific region to, for example, plant trees, but as the decision was only made by Cabinet in past week all of the details were still to come"
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/454610/government-pledges-50-percent-emission-reduction-by-2030
Not sure if Shaw is able to sleep at night.
Fuck Labour. And Labour voters for that matter.
I'll qualify that. Fuck the people who didn't vote Green Party when that would have been a relatively easy thing to do (i.e. lots of Labour voters). Some blame Shaw, but it's the Labour Cabinet making these decisions, not Shaw. There's absolutely no excuse unless one is a climate denialist, or that we are not responsble for later generations and life on earth.
Pretty much agree with that. I'm thinking next time though, there's a party that will pay attention to climate change as well as to the plight of the Precariat in ways that The Greens have not been able to. That party is Te Paati Māori (noting here so problematic views from a particular person on the executive). I'll be watching with interest how the polling is going in the lead-up to the next election before I decide on my non-Labour party vote, if I go that way.
I will consider shifting my vote to te Mp as well, but totally dependent on whether that will actually help in terms of MP numbers to hold Labour to account.
Am thinking it's time to rark up the Greens. But ultimately we need extra-parliamentary movements and I think everyone is just distracted with covid (and unlike others, I don't think covid is going away and that we are in for some difficult times next year in NZ, we haven't yet had to deal with the death and disability side like the rest of the world has).
I think Marama Davidson is doing good work. But yes, this is a long standing problem, and what fucks me off is that Labour voters who aren't part of the precariat could have been voting Green and we would have better climate and end poverty policies being enacted. I just think the whole left wing 'we want action' on those things is hot air.
Be warned, budding Bruce Banners may be afoot.
https://twitter.com/MatthewCappucci/status/1454597660174921735
R.I.P. Dame Catherine Tizard.
A lady in every sense of the word. Her intelligence, sense of humour and compassion for others will not be forgotten.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/454628/dame-catherine-tizard-dies-aged-90