Police Liaison = Police Trap

Written By: - Date published: 3:16 pm, June 8th, 2012 - 45 comments
Categories: activism, police - Tags:

Last week I wrote about how the mass arrest of protesters last week was planned by police from the beginning. A couple of days later I was told that 10 minutes before the march a Police Liaison Officer spoke to protest organisers and stated that police were only there to facilitate the march. I have now managed to track down the video of this conversation:

At the beginning of the video, if you listen carefully you’ll hear the Police Liaison say: “We are here to facilitate that…”

The conversation then goes on:

Police Liaison: Ideally, depending on numbers, we would prefer you to stay on the footpath.

Protest Organiser: Yeah that’s not going to happen.

Police Liaison: What about one lane?

Protest Organiser: No one lane’s not going to happen either. That would kind of defy the point of the blockade protest. The idea is, we want to be engaging with these people so we feel like if we aren’t asking them to engage directly then we’re not really being heard, and that can be illustrated by the Minister of Finance kind of inciting this situation himself directly. That’s kind of our position on it – we would like to stand on both sides of the street and we feel there probably will be enough of us.

Police Liaison: Have you got any indication of numbers?

Protest Organiser: We’ll just keep counting, like you.

Police Liaison: Very good. And have you got a time?

Protest Organiser: 3pm

Police Liaison: For here? Is that when you’re going to march? Are you going to have a little rally first?

Protest Organiser: There’ll be a bit of a rally here, when we announce the plan to everyone. Much the same as last week. And then we’ll march from here so there’ll be a few chants and then we’ll walk up the street.

Police Liaison: Will you tell me your direction?

Protest Organiser: It’s going to be in the same direction as last time.

Police Liaison: Very good. Thank you very much.

As it turned out the protesters decided they didn’t reasonably have the numbers to take over the whole street, so they were only marching up two out of the four lanes.

The Police Liaison Officer in this conversation could have warned the protesters that everyone would be arrested if they marched up the road (though that would itself have been unlawful). Instead she clearly gave the impression that police had no issue with the protest plan. The video was taken right on 3pm, just before the beginning of the protest. Less than 10 minutes later, police began the mass arrests.

45 comments on “Police Liaison = Police Trap ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Draco T Bastard 1
    8 June 2012 at 3:24 pm

    And the police wonder why people hold them in contempt.

    • Te Reo Putake 1.1
      8 June 2012 at 4:14 pm

      The Police officer seemed pretty reasonable to me, Draco. Nothing contemptible about liaising with the organisers of the march, nothing on the tape to suggest she was in on a set up or indeed, that there was a ‘trap’ at all. They’re cops; if you piss them off, they arrest you. Something I’ve experienced myself, in many similar circ’s (and, on occasion, without the kid glove treatment I saw in the vids of the arrests).
       
      The tactic of arrest, hold and release has been used for years now. It’s an effective way of taking the steam out of a protest, without the drama of court appearances, convictions etc. Or a ‘fry up’ as I believe our coppers call the use of the Tazer.

      • Draco T Bastard 1.1.1
        8 June 2012 at 4:40 pm

        Nothing contemptible about liaising with the organisers of the march,

        There was no liaising, just information gathering.

        It’s an effective way of taking the steam out of a protest,

        Well, if that’s its purpose then it needs to be illegal. The police are supposed to be there to help protect democracy, not help the authoritarian governments destroy it.

        • Te Reo Putake 1.1.1.1
          8 June 2012 at 4:56 pm

          No, that was liaising; the sharing of information. All this video proves is that one police officer thought that the march was no big deal. I must say your idea that the police are here to help protect democracy is touchingly naive! They are here to enforce the law, something they have in common with police forces in every country, democratic or not.

          • shreddakj 1.1.1.1.1
            8 June 2012 at 5:54 pm

            The Bill of Rights is law yes?

            • Te Reo Putake 1.1.1.1.1.1
              8 June 2012 at 6:12 pm

              What’s your point?

              • Colonial Viper …
                8 June 2012 at 6:20 pm

                Reminds me of Occupy protests in the US where the police would quietly escort a peaceful protest march…straight into a dead end police cordon which would close shut around the protesters. Mass arrests would follow.

                TRP: why do you think the “liaison” didn’t issue any warning to the protestors that they faced imminent arrest?

                • Te Reo Putake …
                  8 June 2012 at 6:39 pm

                  Because the Liaison Officer clearly wasn’t in on the conspiracy, CV. Need to know, plausible deniability and all that.
                   
                  Nah, just kidding. Watch the video, she just isn’t that bothered, nor is the student leader. Why it changed from a pretty low key event to numerous arrests, I do not know. But, so what? It’s just not that big a deal that a few middle class kiddies* got locked up for a few hours. Try being brown, poor and out at night in a South Auckland shopping centre for the real thing. Especially tonight with the cops looking for the guy who tried to shoot one of their own.
                   
                  *Copyright V32!

                  • weka …
                    8 June 2012 at 6:45 pm

                    Whether she knew or not it’s pretty obvious from the time frames that the person in charge knew. That counts as a set up.

                    • Te Reo Putake …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:09 pm

                      Maybe so, weka, but there isn’t any evidence to back up that assertion AFAIK. The cops were certainly helped by the organisers’ failure to get a permit for the march*. That gave them the ability to use the pretty loose breach of the peace provisions to start nicking people any time they felt like it.
                       
                      *I stand to be corrected, but I think that was confirmed in the posts last Friday. I’ve got a dose of the flu, so I’m not up to trawling through the comments to check.

                    • weka …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:18 pm

                      not really getting your point TRP. I thought Rocky’s post made it pretty clear. Unless you are saying she is lying or mistaken?
                       
                      The police knew there was a protest. They planned a blockade. or are you saying it was coincidence they were on the same street at the same time?
                       
                      Yes, there was no permit. But as Rocky spelled out in the last post, there was no need for one – historically in Auckland protests have sometimes been held without them, and that’s not been a problem.

                    • Te Reo Putake …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:30 pm

                      Mistaken, not lying. If they’d got the permit, then it would have been less of a green light for the cops to start arresting people. Without it, all the marchers were technically breaching the peace the moment they left the pavement, which gave the cops the ability to do what they did. Why they did it, I don’t know. I’m guessing whoever was in charge thought things were getting out of hand and took the catch and release option. Which is a pretty common response in these situations.
                       
                      Just so there’s no confusion, I fully support the aims of the march and I think the game of Frogger the marchers played with the cops after the arrests was probably the cleverest bit of protest action in years.
                       
                      But I just don’t see a conspiracy, Weka, nor have I seen any evidence of police brutality.

                    • KJT …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:43 pm

                      Can’t anyone see what is wrong with these statements?

                      YOU NEED A PERMIT TO PROTEST.

                      POLICE HAVE A RIGHT TO DETAIN PROTESTERS WHO ARE NOT BREAKING ANY LAWS.

                      We have have statements like this from several commenters on this site.

                      Where are the advocates of individual freedom?

                      I forgot. They are instructing the police to arrest legal protesters.

                      The police do not have the right to detain;
                      Legal protesters.
                      A demonstration using a public thoroughfare.
                      Citizens going about their lawful business. (Whether it pisses the cops off or not).

                      THE POLICE DID NOT HAVE A RIGHT TO DETAIN NON VIOLENT MARCHERS. Shown by the lack of charges.

                      What happened to the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.

                      The police involved should have been charged with illegally preventing citizens right to dissent. Or are we just going to quietly give in to the erosion of our rights and the increase in police powers.

                    • Colonial Viper …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:44 pm

                      Nah, just kidding. Watch the video, she just isn’t that bothered, nor is the student leader. Why it changed from a pretty low key event to numerous arrests, I do not know. But, so what? It’s just not that big a deal that a few middle class kiddies* got locked up for a few hours.

                      The liaison was part of a police process to end a democratic protest using force. Force which was used despite the fact that no actual arrests could be justified.

                      Surprised you’re so blasé about it, actually.

                      All this video proves is that one police officer thought that the march was no big deal

                      Why did her superiors choose not to warn the marchers that arrests were imminent if they continued?

                    • Te Reo Putake …
                      8 June 2012 at 7:59 pm

                      Yes, KJT, shouting helps.
                       
                      So does getting the appropriate permits so that you are not immediately breaking the law the moment your protest starts, thus allowing the cops to start nicking people any time they felt like it.
                       
                      So all your shouty bits are complete bollocks, I’m afraid. The naivety of the organisers allowed the cops the freedom to arrest any time they wanted to. Which they took full advantage of, apparently. Hopefully, the next one this group organises will be a bit less helpful to PC Plod, but if your comment is indicative of the strategic planning, maybe not.
                       
                      CV, I suspect there was no plan to arrest anyone at all, but at some point, whoever was in charge made the call to start doing so because of the events on the march itself. In other words, something changed. Not an unusual happening in a relatively volatile event.
                       
                       

                    • KJT …
                      8 June 2012 at 8:50 pm

                      Te Reo.

                      I do not think you understand.

                      I am shouting because I am pissed off. At people do not understand how serious it is that our rights are slowly, but surely, being removed..

                      IN A “FREE” COUNTRY YOU SHOULD NOT NEED A PERMIT TO PROTEST.

                      AND THE POLICE SHOULD NOT HAVE ANY RIGHT TO STOP YOU, SIMPLY PROTESTING.

                      Marching down a public road is not breaking the law.

                      Forcibly detaining and seizing people during a protest is breaking the law. And a crime against human rights.

                      I do not think you get what is wrong with the picture.

                      It is not right when they do it to brown people out of sight, teenagers because they think they will get away with it and students in plain sight.

                      It is never right!

                  • rocky …
                    8 June 2012 at 7:49 pm

                    Try being brown, poor and out at night in a South Auckland shopping centre for the real thing.

                    Exactly. If they’ll do this to white middle class students while the cameras are rolling, imagine being poor and brown in South Auckland!

                    • rocky …
                      8 June 2012 at 8:05 pm

                      CV, I suspect there was no plan to arrest anyone at all, but at some point, whoever was in charge made the call to start doing so because of the events on the march itself. In other words, something changed. Not an unusual happening in a relatively volatile event.

                      If there was no plan to arrest, why were there 100 police and a bunch of paddywagons deployed right from the start?

                    • Te Reo Putake …
                      8 June 2012 at 8:12 pm

                      Cheers, Rocky and more power to you! The events around class sizes clearly show that this Government are scared shitless when the middle class get militant. We need more protests and more people out on the street to stop asset sales and to bring this wretched excuse for a leadership to its knees. But that needs more understanding of the real power in this country. It ain’t the cops! It’s us.

                      Edit: re: the paddy wagons, that’s SOP. Hell, they had the army 3 kms from Whanganui city on the last day of the Pakaitore occupation. But that was uppity maori, not the sons and daughters of National voters.

          • Nandor 1.1.1.1.2
            9 June 2012 at 12:11 pm

            Naive maybe but police instructions do explicitly state that one of their functions in policing demonstrations is to protect the right of democratic protest. That was a result of a recommendation of the Justice and Electoral Committee after it held an inquiry into the policing of the Free Tibet protests during APEC in 1999, during which police used “catch and release” and also pulled flags out of protestors hands so the Chinese Premier couldn’t see them. Parliament was highly critical of such actions.

  2. Sweetd 2
    8 June 2012 at 3:59 pm

    Really?!?!?!, which people?

    • McFlock 2.1
      8 June 2012 at 4:06 pm

      I suspect a number of people who were arrested, detained and then released without charge.

  3. Sweetd 3
    8 June 2012 at 4:08 pm

    Well, then, don’t sit in the middle of a busy road at rush hour.

    • Rocky 3.1
      8 June 2012 at 4:18 pm

      The sitting started after the arrests started.

      • McFlock 3.1.1
        8 June 2012 at 4:19 pm

        letting facts get in the way of idiot assumptions again? Unfair!

      • Sweetd 3.1.2
        8 June 2012 at 4:24 pm

        evidence?

        On the raw video from tvnz arrests were made when they were sitting.

        • McFlock 3.1.2.1
          8 June 2012 at 4:27 pm

          That doesn’t mean the first arrests happened when everyone was sitting.

        • BJ 3.1.2.2
          8 June 2012 at 8:12 pm

          If you are genuinely interested, here’s footage of the moment when we go from standing to sitting, as well as of a cop throwing a punch and numerous cops using legalized police brutality techniques. We were marching before we were standing still, but when the police stop you from moving forward it’s kinda hard to keep going.

          • weka 3.1.2.2.1
            8 June 2012 at 9:49 pm

            I’m really shocked by that. I haven’t watched any other footage. The police surrounding the protestors like that, how can that be anything other than intimidating? And what can be the point of that except if you are intending to arrest the protestors? I can’t see how that manoeuvre can have been anything other than planned.

          • sweetd 3.1.2.2.2
            8 June 2012 at 11:10 pm

            The video shows police arresting people after they had sat down.

            • Colonial Viper 3.1.2.2.2.1
              8 June 2012 at 11:15 pm

              Yes it does. But it doesn’t conclusively show no arrests before that point either.

            • McFlock 3.1.2.2.2.2
              8 June 2012 at 11:37 pm

              It shows police hemming the students in on at least three sides before the decision to sit was made. So even though that particular video doesn’t show arrests before sitting (not that it shows all the protest, by any means), I think it demonstrates that the decision to arrest was pretty obviously made before the decision to sit down. 
                      
              So your comment “Well, then, don’t sit in the middle of a busy road at rush hour” is still pretty stupid – if anything the decision to sit seemed to be a reaction to the cops’ clear intention to surround, contain and arrest. Same playbook as Berkeley in the 60s, by the way.
               

              • sweetd …
                8 June 2012 at 11:46 pm

                It was the middle of a main road approaching rush hour. Hem them in, and keep them out of the traffic as best they could. Sitting down was a provocation. Removing them was the correct course of action for that location. FFS they could of had a god ole sit down in aotea squarre and nobody would give a rats ass. The location and the action they took at that location was the reason they got arrested.

                • McFlock …
                  8 June 2012 at 11:57 pm

                  You can see the cops deploy around the protest and close right in before the decision to sit was made.
                       
                  If anything, hemming the students in was a provocative act that they simply responded to by sitting down.
                         
                  “Keep them out of the traffic”? What traffic? Although that footage does show an almost empty lane that could have been used for limited traffic had it not been filled with police officers preparing to arrest students then release them without charge.

                • felix …
                  9 June 2012 at 2:51 am

                  Hi sweetd.

                  Lets save a bit of time with the back and forth and you looking up non-existent statutes that you think supersede the BoRA, and just come out and say that you think the police should be able to arrest anyone they like, anytime they like.

          • David H 3.1.2.2.3
            9 June 2012 at 11:46 am

            And if you look at that footage when the punch was thrown there is one thing missing, NO I.D badges can be seen. go through it frame by frame from 3.40. and you will also see a couple of police walk out, start from about 50 secs. Then another line moves in from the back, and the thuggery starts.

  4. Tiger Mountain 4
    8 June 2012 at 4:23 pm

    The coppers will rarely put themselves out to enforce peoples democratic rights, over decades liaison officers have been there to gather info not smooth the way for a great demo. It is worse these days with the multiplicity of ‘spook squads’ who treat virtually any expression of protest as a real world opportunity to use their twisted training.

    Call a cop because you have been treated unfairly at work, I don’t think so. Put on a legal picket outside a boss’s premises and the bluebellies are there in ten minutes supporting the employer. They are part of the state forces fer crissakes, don’t expect anything else.

    • KJT 4.1
      8 June 2012 at 10:13 pm

      Yep. You will be down to the cop shop in jig time if you embezzle a hundred dollars off your employer, even if it was a mistake..

      If they forget to pay you $100 dollars a month then refuse to back pay it. Try and get the cops interested.

  5. Tezza 5
    8 June 2012 at 4:33 pm

    I entered Symonds street at 2.30 pm it was blocked off to traffic (by police) after the Wellesley st turnoff so all traffic was diverted down Wellesley street. I parked on Princes Street which was not blocked off and went to the university.
    The protest started from the University Library at 3.00pm. The march entered Symonds street and marched on one side of the road only (the side entering the city) and had not gone far before being stopped and pushed around by the police. Symonds street was still blocked off at this point – by the police.
    Police had wagons cars and vans parked on the other side of the road.
    My question is: How can protesters marching down one side of an already blocked thoroughfare be accused of blocking that thoroughfare?
    This seemed to be a premeditated action on the part of the police.

  6. Tim 6
    9 June 2012 at 1:22 am

    So is a permit now required to march and protest? I ‘spose that’s something like giving so many days notice of an intention to strike?

    Shit – when did that happen?

    I’ve been in hybernation for a while (from memory since about 1984) – has someone redefined the meaning of facism in my absence?

    Oh, and when did the police become so namby pamby that their belts are so full of various weaponry that they waddle when they walk. I’m assuming it was around the time they put their own worst enemy in charge of representing their interests in the form of a Greg – thick-shit – O’Connor : Chief Apologist and former Captain Wunder-Cover, Hypocrite-at-large.
    The sooner the police collective lose him as a means of representing their best interests, the sooner they’ll regain some cred. But then they don’t really need credibility do they – or respect. Demanding both seems to be their Divine right over and above those they supposedly “serve”.

    Can someone tell me where I apply for permission so half a dozen mates and I can walk down Lambton Quay chanting how much we’re in love with dimocrissy, peace, love and the Merikin way?
    Is it the City Council office or Stasi HQ?

    • Carol 6.1
      9 June 2012 at 8:21 am

      I though it always was the case that permission was needed for protests. It certainly was for street protests in the UK when I was there in the late 70s. The police always wanted to authorise a route, and to prepare their troups. There was some conflict with feminist groups, for instance, wanting to take a route through specific streets in the centre of London, which the police wouldn’t allow.

  7. Te Reo Putake 7
    9 June 2012 at 8:11 am

    Just for future reference, here is the relevant section of the Ak council website. Other local councils will probably have similar user friendly pages.

  8. Rosie 8
    9 June 2012 at 10:12 am

    Hey Rocky. Thanks for posting last Sunday’s article and yesterday article outlining the progress of the Ak protests and subsequent police action. It was interesting that you made it clear about the direction of the police in regard to this particular protest, that there was a pre determined agenda on their behlaf. This approach was a topic of discussion on Radio Active’s Thursday interview they do with Alistair from Scoop. co .nz. The point was made that the police here in Wgtn would be unlikely to behave in the way that the Ak police were directed to and how this comes down to an individual and very personal directive from the cop in charge. I do recall when I saw the cops monitoring the occupy camp in civic square last year I felt a familiar anxiety at the sight of them as I’d had a very negative experience on the picket line some years back however in this particular instance they were really chilled – and apparently this was a consistant theme for the duration of the camp. This is just what I heard as I wasn’t at the camp that much and certianly not at the end. It’s sad that the Ak protesters had to face such provocative action. I want to acknowledge your stance and let you know just as one person, that watching the TV footage I felt proud to call myself an NZer which doesn’t happen often enough these days. All power to you and to everyone involved for standing up and standing strong. Kia Kaha.

  9. tony 9
    9 June 2012 at 9:49 pm

    Here’s a video showing the police immediately arresting the person at the front of the march, before it has even really begun:

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • Decision allows for housing growth in Western Bay of Plenty
    The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop today released his decision on four recommendations referred to him by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, opening the door to housing growth in the area. The Council’s Plan Change 92 allows more homes to be built in existing and new ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago

  • Speech to New Zealand China Council
    Thank you, John McKinnon and the New Zealand China Council for the invitation to speak to you today.    Thank you too, all members of the China Council. Your effort has played an essential role in helping to build, shape, and grow a balanced and resilient relationship between our two ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    23 hours ago

  • Modern insurance law will protect Kiwi households
    The Government is modernising insurance law to better protect Kiwis and provide security in the event of a disaster, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly announced today. “These reforms are long overdue. New Zealand’s insurance law is complicated and dated, some of which is more than 100 years old. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Government recommits to equal pay
    The coalition Government is refreshing its approach to supporting pay equity claims as time-limited funding for the Pay Equity Taskforce comes to an end, Public Service Minister Nicola Willis says.  “Three years ago, the then-government introduced changes to the Equal Pay Act to support pay equity bargaining. The changes were ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Transforming how our children learn to read
    Structured literacy will change the way New Zealand children learn to read - improving achievement and setting students up for success, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.  “Being able to read and write is a fundamental life skill that too many young people are missing out on. Recent data shows that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • NZ not backing down in Canada dairy dispute
    Trade Minister Todd McClay says Canada’s refusal to comply in full with a CPTPP trade dispute ruling in our favour over dairy trade is cynical and New Zealand has no intention of backing down. Mr McClay said he has asked for urgent legal advice in respect of our ‘next move’ ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Stronger oversight for our most vulnerable children
    The rights of our children and young people will be enhanced by changes the coalition Government will make to strengthen oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, including restoring a single Children’s Commissioner. “The Government is committed to delivering better public services that care for our most at-risk young people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Streamlining Building Consent Changes
    The Government is making it easier for minor changes to be made to a building consent so building a home is easier and more affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.      “The coalition Government is focused on making it easier and cheaper to build homes so we can ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago

  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago

  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago

  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-03T20:09:57+00:00