Hide’s invitation to corrupt fundraiser

Written By: - Date published: 10:00 am, October 21st, 2009 - 74 comments
Categories: act, corruption - Tags:

Hide invite

Click here for a PDF of Local Government Minister Rodney Hide’s invitation to local government stakeholders to a breakfast speech titled “The Future of Local Government”.

This speech by the Minister to stakeholders is doubling as an ACT fundraiser. If you want to hear your Minister for Local Government speak, you will have to make a contribution to the ACT party.

Now, I can see Hide claiming he won’t be speaking as minister. Well, let’s take a look at this invite:

Hmm, “The Future of Local Government”. Sounds like a representative of the government, a minister, talking to me.

The body of the invite backs it up:

ACT Party Leader and Minister of Local Government; Hon Rodney Hide has a significant programme to enhance the operation of the Local Government sector. He would be delighted if you would join him for breakfast at the Heartland Cotswold Hotel on 4 November 2009.

At this breakfast, Rodney will present his views on ‘The Future of Local Government in New Zealand’.

Yup, no doubt he’s speaking as minister there. And they know they’re doing something dodgy because they avoid calling him minister on the front page but on the front page only, a sign of a guilty mind trying to cover up.

There’s no way out of this for Hide. He has been caught red-handed abusing his ministerial powers. He should resign before Key fires him.

74 comments on “Hide’s invitation to corrupt fundraiser ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. r0b 1
    21 October 2009 at 10:09 am

    According to the invitation: “The cost of the breakfast and presentation is $45 per person”.

    That’s pretty clear. You’re paying for the presentation. Paying to hear a Minister speak in his Ministerial capacity.

    The payment details are to an ACT account. If you were paying for breakfast you’d pay the restaurant, not ACT.

    It’s an ACT fundraiser. This stinks.

    • Tigger 1.1
      21 October 2009 at 10:19 am

      And in fact you’re being made to feel that if you don’t come you’re going to miss out an important opportunity to engage with the government: “The role
      you play has a significant effect on the prosperity of your communities, districts, towns and the Canterbury region as a whole. ACT Party Leader and Minister of Local Government; Hon Rodney Hide has a significant programme to enhance the operation of the Local Government sector.”

      It’s a fundraiser.

  2. Nick 2
    21 October 2009 at 10:15 am

    They’re using the wrong ACT logo.

    Scheisters!

  3. Nick 3
    21 October 2009 at 10:27 am

    I’m just looking for the Ministerial Services/NZ Government logo.

    Can anyone spot it?

    • snoozer 3.1
      21 October 2009 at 10:39 am

      Why is that relevant? All that would mean is the invite (and presumably the event) was paid for by Ministerial Services.

      In fact, its absence just confirms this is an ACT fundraiser.

  4. Armchair Critic 4
    21 October 2009 at 10:30 am

    Time for JK to break out another wet bus ticket

  5. toad 5
    21 October 2009 at 10:30 am

    Rodney’s excuse will be that someone in ACT made a mistake, and that he should not have been billed as speaking in his Ministerial capacity. So he’ll probably get away with it.

    But, as Double Dipton would say, it’s “not a good look”.

  6. snoozer 6
    21 October 2009 at 10:45 am

    It seems there are two lines the Right can take here:

    1) It’s not a fundraiser. Problem with that is it is being organised by ACT and the price is not insignificant. In fact, it’s only $5 less than the fundraising dinners held by Labour as part of Clark’s farewell.

    2) Hide’s not speaking as minister. Why, if that were the case, would stakeholders like local body councillors be invited to attend in their official capacity?

    It’s clear this is an unholy combination of a minsiterial speech and fundraiser where people who need to hear the minister’s plans for local government need to make a donation to his party.

    captcha – objecting. damn right I am.

    • Graeme Edgeler 6.1
      21 October 2009 at 10:56 am

      Why, if that were the case, would stakeholders like local body councillors be invited to attend in their official capacity?

      I don’t think the leaflet is as conclusive as people here seem to think … I note that the bit just under the photo, that’s not included on the post itself, states:

      an address by

      THE HON. RODNEY HIDE
      ACT Party Leader

      It also states:

      Rodney will present his views on “The Future of Local Government in New Zealand’.

      That is, Rodney’s views, not the Government’s views.

      That said, snoozer’s argument here is a very good one – you don’t target a party fund-raiser at ECan officials and councillors. r0b’s point is pretty good too – you’re paying for a presentation, not just breakfast.

      Toad’s point, however, is a little off – Rodney isn’t billed as speaking in his ministerial capacity, he’s billed as:

      “THE HON. RODNEY HIDE
      ACT Party Leader”.

      • Graeme Edgeler 6.1.1
        21 October 2009 at 10:59 am

        I’ll add that I think this address will be about ACT policy, not government policy. This will be about what Rodney wants to do, but hasn’t convinced the government to go along with.

        Not sure this helps the perception issue, but it’s something to bear in mind.

        • snoozer 6.1.1.1
          21 October 2009 at 11:17 am

          So Graeme’s taken the position that it is a fundraiser, not an official address by a minister.

          Tell me, Graeme, why is it that local government stakeholders that are being invited?

          Why are councillors from Ecan being invited in their official capacities to attend an ACT fundraiser?

          I know you’re supposed to be a smart guy and I know that you’re desperate to defend the Right, so I would have thoguht you could have done better.

          • Graeme Edgeler 6.1.1.1.1
            21 October 2009 at 12:50 pm

            snoozer – what part of:

            “snoozer’s argument here is a very good one you don’t target a party fund-raiser at ECan officials and councillors.”

            did you not understand?

            I accepted your argument. And yet you still want to argue with me. Why?

            • peteremcc 6.1.1.1.1.1
              21 October 2009 at 8:36 pm

              Graeme is right, of course it’s an ACT fundraiser.

              Has anyone in ACT denied this?

              Rodney is speaking in his role as ACT leader, at an ACT organised event.

              The only possible part of this that could be dodgy is inviting the region’s councilors.

              Of course, if you actually bother to listen to what Rodney has said in the media about this (and it seems no-one here has), he said that they were invited because they complained that they WEREN’T invited last time Rodney spoke at an ACT even in Christchurch.

              Clear yet?

      • Tigger 6.1.2
        21 October 2009 at 11:04 am

        The true devil here is not in the detail, but in the look. I would argue it is a fundraiser (he’s billed as a Minister inside so he can’t claim he’s there as ACT leader), but even if it is not, it looks looks like a fundraiser.

      • toad 6.1.3
        21 October 2009 at 11:08 am

        Um, Graeme:

        ACT Party Leader and Minister of Local Government; Hon Rodney Hide has a significant programme to enhance the operation of the Local Government sector.

        I take that to mean a programme as the Minister.

        • BLiP 6.1.3.1
          21 October 2009 at 11:25 am

          Could be done for false advertising too – there’s nothing ACT or Rodney has that could in any way “enhance” the operation of local government.

      • SMSD 6.1.4
        21 October 2009 at 11:43 am

        Hide is the Minister for Local Government. He is speaking on his views on Local Government. Inside the brochure he is described as the Minister for Local Government.

        It is absurd to suggest he is not speaking as the Minister.

        The simple fact is that the Minister for Local Government is giving a talk on his portfolio, and using that talk to fundraise for his party.

        • peteremcc 6.1.4.1
          21 October 2009 at 8:38 pm

          So, just to be clear, no Labour Minister has ever been described as a Minister in a program for a Labour Conference or meeting that they spoke at in the last 9 years right?

          You can mention that you’re the Minister for Local Government, without speaking as the Minister for Local Government. Just as I can comment on here as the Vice President for ACT on Campus, but be speaking for myself rather than ACT on Campus.

          • dave 6.1.4.1.1
            21 October 2009 at 9:53 pm

            The point isn’t whether Hide can speak as a minister or as a party leader at a party event, its that Hide purported to speak as party leader at a party function, but his party advertised his ministerial role and targeted people interested in his ministerial responsibilities and said they`d be charged if they turned up to listen at that event. Even Hide admitted that was inappropriate.

          • Pascal's bookie 6.1.4.1.2
            22 October 2009 at 7:33 am

            Peter, if you comment somewhere as the Vice President for ACT on Campus, then you are obviously speaking as the Vice President for ACT on Campus. That’s not a difficult one.

            This isn’t a party conference, it’s a fundraiser and ACT invited stakeholders from local government to attend to hear the Minister’s views on their sector. The (late) response from ACTies such as yourself and Clint aren’t doing much to protect ACT’s anti corruption brand.

            It would have been better to just admit the ‘mistake’ and let stakeholders attend for free. Blaming those stakeholders, denying it was a fundraiser, saying it is a fundraiser but everyone does it (with no examples), looks umm, bad.

  7. the sprout 7
    21 October 2009 at 10:53 am

    This is yet another screw up from the couldn’t organize a piss-up in a brewery party.

    Stand by for embarrassing back-down 😆

  8. BLiP 8
    21 October 2009 at 11:01 am

    What’s next – a $50 “filing fee” for submissions to select committees?

    • So Bored 8.1
      21 October 2009 at 11:09 am

      Its the ACT version of the law of supply and demand. We supply the money for ACT MPs to do parliamentary stuff, and they demand more……

    • the sprout 8.2
      21 October 2009 at 11:15 am

      No $50 just buys you the priviledge of rubbing oil on his feet.

      Select Committee submissions will cost much more than that, otherwise you run the risk of full democratic participation, including, like, poor people.

  9. tc 9
    21 October 2009 at 11:07 am

    If history is any guide, nothing will get done…..busy gov’t and all that.
    JK needs Wodney to take the wrap for supercity debacle as that’ll become obvious in 2010/11 that it’s a rushed through shambles so JK will keep ACT ‘in’ so it can shaft them and hopefully distance itself from the mess.
    Between ACT and Maori (the sell out parties), careful targetted campaiging from Labor/Greens should see them consigned to Political oblivion…..that’s the dream anyway.

  10. Nick 10
    21 October 2009 at 11:19 am

    Nothing will be done because nothing has happened despite the moaning and whinging from the likes of the people on this site.

    There must be a protest on the closure of moroccan food classes to go to that you’re missing while fornicating over this non issue.

    On the other hand, non issues and Labour go hand in hand. That’s why you’re losing 2-1 in the polls.

  11. snoozer 11
    21 October 2009 at 11:59 am

    Nick hearts corruption

  12. gitmo 12
    21 October 2009 at 12:01 pm

    I can’t see why people have a problem with this – it’s an ACT fundraiser so what ?

    Can’t MPs fund raise in this way, as long as it’s all out in the open and people know where the money is going I see it as a pretty positive way for political parties to raise funds…or am I missing something obvious ?

  13. randal 13
    21 October 2009 at 12:19 pm

    antispam: question
    so the question is is wodney hide just a greedy little moneygrabbing carpetbagging venal party hack after all?

  14. Daveski 14
    21 October 2009 at 1:02 pm

    A broader question is surely whether the general populace gives the proverbial. I’m not trying to defend Rodney. At the same time, I’m sure fund-rasising advertising Labour MPs and ministers have happened in the past and will continue to happen in the future, same as rorting of the trough is not something that is a National-only trait.

    It seems to be yet another example of the Left trying to pick up on an issue that has meaning to the partisan only while the great unwashed see them all as the same.

    National has been sloppy in govt and in many areas is still working out what it’s policies are yet it continues to ride a wave of popularity in the midst of the worst recession in 70 years.

    The focus on these issues I think partially explains it – preaching to the converted while failing to engage with the voters who deserted them in 2008 and still seem to find no reason to go back.

    • Pascal's bookie 14.1
      21 October 2009 at 1:20 pm

      “I’m not trying to defend Rodney”

      Then what is the point in saying all the rest of the stuff you are saying then?

      Honestly, who cares what you reckon punters might think. Who cares whether or not the Standard is effective at whatever you think its job should be?

      You’re a punter, I’m a punter. Let’s leave the shit at the door and talk.

      Do you think what Hide is doing is corrupt, or not?

      Should Key sack him, or not?

    • snoozer 14.2
      21 October 2009 at 1:29 pm

      you’re kind of saying that I shouldn’t care about something if you don’t think everyone else will care.

      thanks, but I’ll take my cues on what to care about from my views on what is right and what is wrong, not from imaginary polls of the population at large.

    • Roger 14.3
      21 October 2009 at 1:52 pm

      The broader question is actually whether the populace should give a proverbial?

      The answer is yes. How is it acceptable for a minister to collect a ministerial salary and operate in a democracy that ensures ministers are accountable to the public and parliament, then charge for access to their ministerial views on their own portfolios? This kind of rent seeking cannot occur unless the populace want to lose access and the right to access and the ability to hold ministers accountable. Labour wouldn’t have gotten away with this. This is an opportunity for the mainstream media to prove they are not partisan by punishing him for this outrage.

    • lprent 14.4
      21 October 2009 at 2:06 pm

      Daveski: I’ve seen a few elections, including a few changes of governments.

      The first year is always a nice one for the incoming government in opinion polls. Usually so is the second one.

      What you seem to be saying is that we on the left should give up just because this is the case. That degree of political stupidity is appalling….

      Like climate change, it isn’t a big event that does the changes (like a volcano spewing massive amounts). It is continuously filling the atmosphere with greenhouse gases every day. It is the cumulative effect that is important. Politically you start this as early as possible and sustain a continuous pressure. The earlier you start, the bigger the effect is.

      But a bright boy like you should know this…..

      • the sprout 14.4.1
        21 October 2009 at 2:35 pm

        well said

      • Daveski 14.4.2
        21 October 2009 at 2:36 pm

        What you seem to be saying is that we on the left should give up just because this is the case. That degree of political stupidity is appalling .

        Ah no. Far from that. What I am trying to say is that there seems to be an infatuation for the issues that appeal to the political trainspotters.

        Meanwhile, while these are failing to gain any traction, Key is networking with the unions.

        I’m saying there’s been a consistent overreaction to these type of things similar to what used to happen at KB without the septic stuff thrown in.

        Funnily enough, I’ve seen the same message I’ve tried to give but delivered from the left and received quite differently.

        Rodders is an idiot but it’s not corruption.

        • the sprout 14.4.2.1
          21 October 2009 at 2:38 pm

          true he is an idiot. i think it will be corrupt if the thing goes ahead with a charge now that the gross impropriety has been pointed out to those too thick to see it in the first place.

        • lprent 14.4.2.2
          21 October 2009 at 2:56 pm

          Yeah, but the question is what it smells like….

          After this gets repeated thousands of times, including at every public meeting from here on in, the smell will come in whenever ACT is mentioned.

          After all that is exactly what the dog whistling in the blogs managed to get on to the agenda when they were largely in opposition to Labour. I’m going to enjoy standing up in meetings in Epsom and asking what the cover charge is?

  15. 123 15
    21 October 2009 at 3:41 pm

    Umm, i’m pretty sure the Prime Minister holds party fundraising events, and is described in literature as being the Prime Minister.

    No difference.

    • gobsmacked 15.1
      21 October 2009 at 3:53 pm

      You don’t have a clue about the law, 123.

      The PM sees a problem here, even if you don’t.

      “If it’s a genuine part of explaining your portfolio and communicating with audiences well, obviously, ministers don’t charge for that.”

      (John Key, NZPA, today)

      • Tom 15.1.1
        21 October 2009 at 4:00 pm

        Key’s running from this one, alright. This could damage Hide permanently, which would suit Key. Wait for the official Prime Ministerial reprimand.

      • peteremcc 15.1.2
        21 October 2009 at 8:51 pm

        actually, Key seems to be explaining what would be a problem.

        and what would be a problem is what Hide isn’t doing.

        maybe you can paste the quote where Key says that what you have quoted is what Hide is doing?

        no?

  16. snoozer 16
    21 October 2009 at 4:27 pm

    Key: “If it’s a genuine part of explaining your portfolio and communicating with audiences well, obviously, ministers don’t charge for that.”

    Well, I don’t see how we can say Hide has met that standard, which is nothing special, just what’s in the cabinet manual

  17. peteremcc 17
    21 October 2009 at 8:53 pm

    Just did a quick google search and look what was the first result:

    http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA0011/S00323.htm

    That would be a speech by the Prime Minister, to a Labour Party Conference, introduced as:

    Rt Hon Helen Clark
    Prime Minister

    KEYNOTE ADDRESS TO
    LABOUR PARTY CONFERENCE

    Not even introduced as “Helen Clark, Labour Leader and Prime Minister”, as Rodney was mentioned in the pamphlet. No, just “Prime Minister”, her ministerial position.

    Now, we’re people charged to come to this conference at all?

    • George D 17.1
      21 October 2009 at 8:54 pm

      Were, not we are.

    • dave 17.2
      21 October 2009 at 9:55 pm

      The point isn’t whether Hide can speak as a minister or as a party leader at a party event, its that Hide purported to speak as party leader at a party function, but his party advertised his ministerial role and targeted people interested in his ministerial responsibilities and said they`d be charged if they turned up to listen at that event. Even Hide admitted that was inappropriate.

  18. Ianmac 18
    21 October 2009 at 10:50 pm

    TV1 reported Hide’s action but in such a way as to seem that it was not a real problem. Almost seemed to say that Mr Hide was a funny fellow. Fancy charging folk to come to his speech. Naughty boy.

  19. Clint Heine 19
    22 October 2009 at 2:38 am

    ACT people are all over this blog? Yeah right, even Red Alert has more street cred. This is my first visit in ages here – so of course you won’t see many people defending it from ACT. 🙂

    Obviously none of you have ever been to see your favourite Labour MP come to speak on his/her portfolio within a party meeting environment. Your bias against Rodney is the true tale here – anybody who knows him knows he spends a lot of time talking about his portfolio to any ACT branch who asks for his time. The last time he did it, the councillors got pissy because he didn’t invite them. This time he did and welcomed them into an ACT meeting. What gives?

    We are encouraged to invite family, friends whoever along to our meetings, drinks, dinners… as I know everybody else does, regardless of party allegiances. Would this fall into your rather loose interpretation of “corrupt fundraising”?

    • Pascal's bookie 19.1
      22 October 2009 at 7:40 am

      “It was ECANs fault”

      The solution to stakeholders complaining that the minister is not communicating with them, is to communicate with them. Demanding a donation to the ACT party first is not-very-good.

    • lprent 19.2
      22 October 2009 at 7:42 am

      Obviously none of you have ever been to see your favourite Labour MP come to speak on his/her portfolio within a party meeting environment.

      You PAY to have MP’s talk to you in Act? Well there is a party of suckers and leeches.

  20. Clint Heine 20
    22 October 2009 at 7:47 am

    Lprent…wow, you’re trying a little too hard to twist it, unless you have never ever in your life attended at Labour/Green conference/event in your life.

    I have attended regional conferences for a few parties. Given there is always a keynote speaker and food/drink put on I have paid for the priviledge. This is no difference 🙂

    • Pascal's bookie 20.1
      22 October 2009 at 8:01 am

      ACT invited Local body officials along to hear the local government minister speak about local govt issues. And they demanded a donation to the ACT party.

      Can you really not see the problem there?

      • felix 20.1.1
        22 October 2009 at 9:53 am

        He’s never been the sharpest knife in the drawer. It wouldn’t surprise me if he genuinely didn’t understand the inherent conflict.

    • lprent 20.2
      22 October 2009 at 12:18 pm

      Don’t be stupid. I’ve been going to labour stuff for 30 years.

      Labour regionals, conferences, and congresses all have two parts.

      One part is for people from the party, where we are charged and share the expenses sometimes.

      The other part is public, eg for Phil or Helens speeches, guest speakers, etc. If they are public then the public are never charged.

      Of course there are a lot of raffles etc – but those contributions are purely voluntary.

      So I’d have to say that you look like you have a VERY selective memory about Labour – if indeed you ever actually attended.

      From your lack of knowledge about things labour, I’d say that assertion is just another ACToid lie. Just like Rodney’s current squirmings…

  21. lukas 21
    22 October 2009 at 8:05 am

    sorry, missed the part where it said that this was the only time you could talk to the minister about this…. if you don’t want to pay, don’t go… simple. You can still e-mail the minster, write a letter to the minister, make a phone call to the ministers office hell you can probably even fax them still!

    Storm meet teacup.

  22. Pascal's bookie 22
    22 October 2009 at 8:08 am

    ACT looks like it’s sick of it’s anti corruption branding now that it’s in government.

    Colour me shocked.

  23. Clint Heine 23
    22 October 2009 at 11:27 am

    I think the point is that they wanted to go but weren’t invited, Rodney invited them along and so they were accordingly given the same rights as ACT members.

    Who forced them to pay? What would these councillors learn from hearing a standard address to members from Rodney? This is remarkably brilliant. I wonder if I should kick up a storm if I am charged for attending any functions where Andrew Little is addressing the EPMU/Labour Party. Why should I be charged to access the opposition?

  24. Brian 24
    22 October 2009 at 4:35 pm

    What a beat up this whole “issue” is.

    Christchurch breakfast was an ACT fundraiser pure and simple. Perhaps there was some ambiguity that has been seized upon by some to score points. But the invitation did NOT go out to the community in general, only ACT members,supporters and other interested parties. All were free to accept or decline the invitation, there was no forced donation to ACT.

    • Pascal's bookie 24.1
      22 October 2009 at 4:48 pm

      “only ACT members,supporters and other interested parties.”

      And ECAN people. Read the damn invite Brian:

      Local Government is key to keeping New Zealand going.

      Local Government is of critical importance to people’s lives and to the future of New Zealand. The role
      you play has a significant effect on the prosperity of your communities, districts, towns and the
      Canterbury region as a whole. ACT Party Leader and Minister of Local Government; Hon Rodney Hide has
      a significant programme to enhance the operation of the Local Government sector. He would be
      delighted if you would join him for breakfast at the Heartland Cotswold Hotel on 4 November 2009

      That’s clearly and unambiguously targeted at local body stakeholders.

      Local body people being invited to hear the minister speak about local government, fine. To do so they would have to donate to the ACT party, not fine.

      There would be no problem if local government stakeholders could hear what Rodney had to say for free, whilst ACTivists paid. But the point was to raise funds for ACT, so ACT decided to use the ministers portfolio as a fund raiser.

  25. Clint Heine 25
    23 October 2009 at 11:33 am

    PB – where were these advertisements/invites placed? As far as I know they were sent/emailed to ACT members in that region and other supporters nearby.

    It seems Rodney was roundly harrassed for not inviting them, and then given shit for inviting them. Gee. Tough audience!

  26. Pascal's bookie 26
    23 October 2009 at 11:57 am

    “where were these advertisements/invites placed”

    Who knows. The people at ECAN got them though we know that. Perhaps you could confirm whether they were sent to their offices or their private homes.

    The point though, is the text. It is clearly and unambiguously targeted at local body types:

    Local Government is of critical importance to people’s lives and to the future of New Zealand. The role
    you play     has a significant effect on the prosperity of your communities, districts, towns and the
    Canterbury region as a whole.

    “It seems Rodney was roundly harrassed for not inviting them, and then given shit for inviting them.”

    I’ve seen ACT claiming this a lot, but I’ve not seen any details. Got any? (And he’s being given shit for fundraising off them though, not the invitation. The invitation and the speech are what Ministers should do as a part of their job. It’s the tacky village fete part that’s shit.)

Links to post

Recent Comments

Recent Posts

  • 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
    4 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
    19 hours 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
    22 hours 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
    23 hours 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    1 day 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    2 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    4 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
    5 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
    6 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
    6 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
    6 days 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
    7 days 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week 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
    1 week ago

  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 weeks ago

Page generated in The Standard by Wordpress at 2024-05-03T01:21:47+00:00