Seriously good fun
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6:25 pm, April 30th, 2009 - 5 comments
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- Some fluoride-IQ researchers seem to be taking in each otherâs laundry
Image credit: Publish Peer Reviews. Illustration by David Parkins Scientific peer-review is often touted as a guarantee of the quality of published research. But how good is peer-review? Does it guarantee poor ... 16 hours ago- Spread the Word
If you like any article please help promote it (and the blog). Link to it on facebook and other social media, write about it anywhere or re-blog it. We’re very happy to have other people re-blog our material, all we ask is that you mention the original source and put ...2 days ago- Pronouns etc
by The Council of Disobedient Women John Fenaughty is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland. In a recent column Fenaughty suggested that school teachers should use students’ “correct names and pronouns (e.g., he, him, they, them, she, her, etc.)” ...2 days ago- “People’s Faces” by Kate Tempest
Heard this on Radio NZ this afternoon. Perfectly captures how I'm feeling just now.It's always good to find new music, though it would be nice to be hearing something celebratory. Even "Things Can Only Get Better" would be welcome, if it was accompanied by a thumping Labour victory. ...2 days ago- A reflection on the British general election
by Don Franks Like New Zealand, Britain is officially a country of equal opportunity under the rule of law, with increasing hardship for those at the bottom. When there’s an election, and the party most obviously callous towards poor people wins, decent folks are dismayed and bewildered. “What the hell ...2 days ago- Well, crap
UKanians went to the polls yesterday in early elections aimed at resolving the Brexit impasse. And they certainly have, delivering a huge majority to the Tories, and (barring internal rebellions of the sort which delayed Brexit) giving them the power to do whatever they want. And thanks to the UK's ...2 days ago- Austerity meets fresh resistance in Iran
by Karim Pourhamzavi Mass protests are occurring across Iran, taking place in over 100 cities. The protests have been sparked by the government’s cutting of fuel subsidies, a measure which caused fuel prices to double overnight. Mass protests are hardly new in Iran, but there is an important difference ...3 days ago- Oh No! It’s a …..
What other song could we play as the UK's political rule book gets torn up and thrown away?Video courtesy of YouTubeThis post is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...3 days ago- Election 2019 – The Legendary Liveblog
Legendary in my own mind, I mean. All times are NZ, which is an hour10.00am (NZ) There's about an hour to go until the exit poll is released. At that point, half of the British voting public will devastated, and the other half celebrating wildly. Unless everyone is simply confused.Turnout seems ...3 days ago- Some Thoughts On Socialism As Jeremy Corbyn Loses The UK General Election.
Forlorn Hope: When the call came down to make Corbyn unelectable, the Establishment's journalists and columnists rose to the challenge. Antisemitism was only the most imaginative of the charges levelled against the old democratic-socialist. There were many more and, sadly, they appear to have worked. Boris Johnson may not be much ...3 days ago- Cartoonist David Low’s Radical Sympathy.
"Rendezvous" by David Low, September 1939.DUNEDIN IS THE BIRTHPLACE of, for my money, the world’s greatest cartoonist, David Low. At the height of his powers, in 1930s London, Low’s cartoons represented the visual conscience of the civilised world. His most famous cartoon, “Rendezvous”, penned a few weeks into the Second ...3 days ago- The UK has a choice as to whether it chooses to be manipulated⊠or not.
If you want to study propagandist techniques, you are typically told to study Dictatorships. Not unfair, but what’s always been more interesting to me is so-called “democratic” countries and their broader information systems. Why? Because people opt for it, even as they decry “totalitarian regimes!”.. It’s quite an eye ...4 days ago- Today’s secrecy legislation
Introducing legislation which shits on the public's right to know seems to have become a daily occurrence for this government. Today's example is the Infrastructure Funding and Financing Bill. The bill establishes a framework for the establishment of "special purpose vehicles" (SPVs) to hide debt from local government balance sheets ...4 days ago- Hard News: Public Address Word of the Year 2019: Time to vote!
Below is the longlist of words and phrases generated in the korero phase of Public Address Word of the Year 2019, with some editorial moderation. Now it's time to vote. As you'll doubtless be able to see, you get three ranked choices. Use your power wisely. Or frivolously, whatever.As usual, ...4 days ago- Encryption, passwords, and self-incrimination
The University of Waikato and New Zealand Law Foundation have released a report today on the law around encryption in New Zealand. There's stuff in there about principles and values, and how proposed government policies to provide for "lawful access" by creating backdoors would destroy the trust which makes encryption ...4 days ago- Drawn
A ballot for two Member's Bills was held today, and the following bills were drawn: Insurance (Prompt Settlement of Claims for Uninhabitable Residential Property) Bill (Stuart Smith) Social Security (Exemption for Ex Gratia and Compensation Payments) Amendment Bill (Willow-Jean Prime) Neither bill seems likely to be particularly controversial. This is ...4 days ago- Bougainville votes for independence
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by Daphna Whitmore This week 800 unionised bus drivers in Auckland were suspended from work after they refused to collect fares as part of a campaign of industrial action. Drivers working for Auckland’s largest bus company NZ Bus are asking for more pay and better working conditions after being offered ...4 days ago- How to support after the Whakaari/White Island volcanic eruption
As details emerge about what unfolded on Whakaari / White Island two days ago, my thoughts go out to all the families affected by this terrible event. My thoughts are also with the first responders who worked in perilous circumstances to assist and protect those affected. Both local and ...4 days ago- Final BMG poll – nothing to see here
BMG research have unleashed their final poll of the 2019 campaign:Westminster voting intention: CON: 41% (-)LAB: 32% (-)LDEM: 14% (-)GRN: 4% (-)BREX: 3% (-1)via @BMGResearch , 06 - 11 Dec Chgs. w/ 06 Dec That's a bit of a "Dunno why we bothered" sort of poll. "Phillip, I'm afraid I've been a ...4 days ago- Grant Robertson Spends Up Large – On The Establishment!
Grant Keeps On Trucking: Out of the $12 billion Robertson has announced for infrastructure investment, $8 billion will be allocated to specific projects, with the balance of $4 billion held in reserve. What does it say about this Government's "transformational" ambitions that 85 percent of that $8 billion is to ...4 days ago- Boris Johnson … Hides … In a Fridge
I am not making this up.First few lines of the Dail Mail write up:Boris Johnson's exasperated media minder swore on live TV today as the PM refused to speak to Good Morning Britain before trotting into a fridge as he started an early milkround in Yorkshire. Piers Morgan was visibly ...4 days ago- Shy Labour Voters?
In previous elections pollsters have bemoaned the 'shy Tory' - the respondent who is so fearful of being judged as a cruel and heartless bastard by an anonymous pollster, or their spouses, workmates and friends, that they lie about their intention of voting Conservative, skewing the poll figures in Labour's ...5 days ago- Seven reasons to be wary of waste-to-energy proposals
Climate Explained is a collaboration between The Conversation, Stuff and the New Zealand Science Media Centre to answer your questions about climate change. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, please send it to climate.change@stuff.co.nz I was in Switzerland recently and discovered that they haven’t ...5 days ago- Reviewing the whitewash
Back in 2015, then Ombudsman Beverley Wakem conducted a review of the OIA, Not a game of hide and seek. The "review" was a whitewash, which found no need for legislative change, and instead criticised the media and requesters - which destroyed Wakem's reputation, and undermined that of the Office ...5 days ago- You Gov MRP Poll Out
So, You Gov's MRP poll - the weird one that tries to reflect what will happen at a constituency level and which pretty much nailed the hung parliament in 2017 - is not looking too good for Labour:UK #GE2019 MRP seat projection:CON: 339 (-20)LAB: 231 (+20)SNP: 41 (-2)LDEM: 15 ...
5 days ago- Climate Change: Accountability?
We've known about climate change for over forty years now,and it has been a major political issue for twenty. And yet fossil fuel companies have kept polluting with impunity, while government have looked the other way and twiddled their thumbs and refused to do anything because "the economy", or just ...5 days ago- Delusional And Irrational: The Rise Of Paranoid Politics In New Zealand.
Sheer Loopiness: Many of those expressing bemusement at the antics of these #turnardern effacers, were convinced that they were yet another expression of the National Party’s increasingly spiteful anti-government propaganda campaign. They marvelled at the oddness of the perpetrators’ mindset and questioned the common-sense of allowing the rest of New Zealand ...5 days ago- Things to know about Whakaari/White Island
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Last year, the government announced it was ending offshore oil exploration by no longer issuing new permits. The idea was that the industry would then die off as permits expired. Except almost immediately the government revealed its bad faith, by saying they would extend permits and alter conditions to keep ...2 weeks ago- Banning foreign money from our elections
The government has said it will ban foreign donations to political parties and candidates, and will be introducing legislation to be passed under all-stages urgency this afternoon. While I agree with the goal, I don't see a particular case for urgency, unless the government is concerned about a flood of ...2 weeks ago- Reforming the Education Acts
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All Smiles Now: Claire Szabo is taking up her presidential role after serving as the CEO of Habitat For Humanity. Which is absolutely perfect! After KiwiBuild was so comprehensively mismanaged by Phil Twyford, the party has not only elected a new president from a thoroughly respectable not-for-profit, but one who ...2 weeks ago- Marxist versus liberal methodology on transgender ideology/identity politics
While much of the NZ left has transitioned to postmodern and identity politics in relation to transgender ideology, there are some very good articles about that deploy Marxist methodology in relation to this subject. The one below is from the British marxist group Counterfire and appeared on their site here ...2 weeks ago- Book review: The Farm by Joanne Ramos
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- Week That Was: Whakaari / White Island
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- Week That Was: Rebuilding New ZealandWe're rebuilding New Zealand - our transport network, our hospitals, our schools and more... After nine years of neglect there's a lot to fix - but we're getting on with the job. ...1 week ago
- Week That Was: Rebuilding New ZealandWe're rebuilding New Zealand - our transport network, our hospitals, our schools and more... After nine years of neglect there's a lot to fix - but we're getting on with the job. ...1 week ago
- New Zealand First calls for more checks for African Swine Fever at our bordersMark Patterson, Spokesperson for Primary Industries New Zealand First spokesperson for Primary Industries, Mark Patterson, has called for awareness to be raised and more stringent biosecurity checks to be put in place for African Swine Fever (ASF), a widespread virus that is uncontrolled in most of Asia and a serious ...2 weeks ago
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- Weekend That Was: Labour Party ConferenceThis weekend was Labour's 103rd Party Conference! We welcomed over 500 of our Labour whānau in red to Whanganui, where we reflected on the last two years in Government, and looked ahead to 2020 and beyond. We know the long-term challenges facing New Zealand won't be tackled overnight, but we're making ...2 weeks ago
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- Jacinda Ardern’s Speech to the 2019 Labour Party ConferenceLive from the Royal Wanganui Opera House. ...2 weeks ago
- Grant Robertson’s Speech to the 2019 Labour Party Conference: Future-proofing New ZealandIt is a great pleasure to be here in Whanganui for the 2019 Labour Conference. ...2 weeks ago
- Kelvin Davis’ Speech to the 2019 Labour Party ConferenceMāori are natural storytellers. On the marae we use stories to tell our history, to teach the next generation life lessons and to let people know, in our most creative of ways, who we are and where we have come from. ...2 weeks ago
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- PGF-funded TaupĆ company successfully extracts lithium from geothermal fluidTaupō-based company Geo40 has made a breakthrough in extracting near battery-grade lithium from geothermal fluid which its says could be a gamechanger. Its chief executive John Worth said the earth mineral was highly prized, with battery-grade lithium selling for US$10,000 (NZ$15,600) a tonne. Geo40 was founded in 2010 to find ...2 weeks ago
- Mark Patterson delighted AgResearch campus will stay in InvermayCrown research institute AgResearch Ltd, as part of its Future Footprint plan, had intended to relocate top scientists and support staff — particularly those focused on sheep genetics and genomics — from Invermay to Lincoln. However, those plans seem to have been shelved at the request of the Coalition Government. ...2 weeks ago
- Ten Southland engineering firms receive Provincial Growth Fund boostTen engineering firms in Southland are receiving a total of $2.13 million in Provincial Growth Fund funding to lift productivity and create new jobs. Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced in Invercargill that the 10 engineering and manufacturing firms would receive funding to assist them with buying equipment that ...3 weeks ago
- Immigration industry cry foul as number of new residents to New Zealand lowest in nearly 20 yearsThe number of new residents to New Zealand is the lowest it has been in nearly two decades and it has earned the ire of the immigration industry. The industry alleges that 'Trump-style extreme vetting' is being put in place aimed at keeping a lid on immigration numbers. June Ranson, ...3 weeks ago
- U.S. signs off five brand new C-130 Hercules for New Zealand Defence ForceThe Royal New Zealand Air Force is one step closer to modernising its fleet after the United States State Department recently approved the sale of five new C-130J Hercules aircraft to New Zealand. Arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin, in Fort Worth, Texas, will provide the aircraft, but as a "foreign military ...3 weeks ago
- PGF supports more manufacturing in ManawatĆ«Hon Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Economic Development A $261,000 loan from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) has helped a family-run business in Manawatū to scale up manufacturing capacity, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced at its opening today. Ashhurst-based skin-care business The Herb Farm is on track to ...3 weeks ago
- Another step towards better freight outcomes in ManawatƫHon Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Economic Development The Regional Freight Hub near Palmerston North has taken a step forward with the completion of the master plan, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones said. Shane Jones unveiled the high-level design of the new Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) backed rail-road hub ...3 weeks ago
- Speech to the 2019 Defence Industry Advisory Council and Defence Employer Support Council AwardsHon Ron Mark, Minister of Defence Tērā te haeata takiri ana mai i runga o Pukaha! Ara tai uru, whai uru, whai uru! Ara whai ato, whai ato, whai ato! Ara rā tini, ara rā tini, ara ri! The rays of the morning sun strike a new dawn upon Pukaha ...3 weeks ago
- PGF boost to future-proof ManawatĆ«-Whanganui economyHon Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Economic Development The Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) is investing $772,000 in opportunities for growth in Manawatū-Whanganui, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced today.NZ Bio-Forestry Limited will receive a $380,000 boost for game-changing research which could unlock significant growth in the wood processing sector, ...3 weeks ago
- Courthouse redesign a model for the future
The Government will invest $100 million on a new courthouse in Tauranga which will be a model for future courthouse design for New Zealand, Justice Minister Andrew Little has announced. The courthouse will be designed in partnership with iwi, the local community, the judiciary, the legal profession, court staff and ...1 hour ago - Government enables early access to 5G spectrumThe Government has given the go ahead to enable further development of 5G networks by making appropriate spectrum available. The Broadcasting, Communications and Digital Media Minister, Kris Faafoi, has confirmed Cabinet approval for the allocation of short-term rights to an unused portion of 3.5 GHz spectrum. 3.5GHz is the first ...2 hours ago
- Record export highs picked for primary sectorSustained high growth in primary industry exports looks set to continue over the next two years with strong prices predicted for farmers, fishers, growers and rural communities. Minister of Agriculture and Minister of State for Trade and Export Growth Damien O’Connor today released the latest Situation and Outlook report for ...24 hours ago
- New partnership to boost screen sector job opportunitiesAuckland’s growing screen sector is the catalyst for a new partnership between the Ministry of Social Development and Auckland’s economic development agency Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED). The launch today at FilmFX in Henderson, is to celebrate the partnership which looks to capitalise on the social and economic development opportunities ...2 days ago
- A minuteâs silence for Whakaari White Island victimsA minute’s silence will be observed at 2.11pm on Monday 16 December in honour of the victims of the Whakaari White Island eruption, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has confirmed. “Wherever you are in New Zealand, or around the world, this is a moment we can stand alongside those who have ...2 days ago
- NZ to help fund fight against measles in the Pacific regionForeign Minister Winston Peters has announced New Zealand will contribute NZ$1 million of funding towards the joint United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF) and World Health Organisation (WHO) Pacific Regional Action Plan for Measles. “Prevention through vaccination is the most effective way of avoiding illness and a costly health emergency. ...2 days ago
- New Zealand remembers Sir Peter SnellNew Zealand is today remembering one of our true sporting heroes, triple Olympic gold medal winner Sir Peter Snell. “He was a legend, here and around the world,” Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. “Our thoughts are with Sir Peter’s wife Miki and their family.” “Sir Peter is recognised as New ...2 days ago
- PM congratulates Boris Johnson on election victoryPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern has congratulated United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson on his election victory. “New Zealand and the United Kingdom are close friends and despite our distance we are strongly connected by our history and people,” Jacinda Ardern said. “I look forward to continuing to work with Prime ...3 days ago
- Building a platform for the future of railThe Government has released its long term vision for a sustainable 21st Century rail network that gets our cities moving, connects our regions and gets more freight off the roads. Deputy Prime Minister and State Owned Enterprises Minister Winston Peters said the Government is committed to rebuilding New Zealand’s ...3 days ago
- Prime Minister statement Whakaari White Island recovery operationI want to start by acknowledging the families who have experienced such grief and such loss since the extraordinary tragedy on Monday. Today was all about reuniting them with their loved ones. We've just come from the airport where many of them were gathered and in amongst what you can ...3 days ago
- New Zealand medical specialists to provide further support to SamoaForeign Minister Winston Peters today announced further support for Samoa’s longer term needs as it continues to respond to a devastating measles epidemic. “Samoa’s health system has experienced massive strain in the wake of the measles epidemic. The volume of patients needing care during this outbreak, and the number of ...3 days ago
- Discounted electric-bikes offered to public sector workersDiscounted electric bikes will be offered up to public sector staff across the country as part of the Government’s work to reduce transport emissions and support healthier transport options. Associate Minister of Transport Julie Anne Genter officially launched the new initiative at Wellington Hospital today. “The Government has negotiated bulk-purchase ...3 days ago
- Australia and New Zealand confirm joint bid for FIFA Womenâs World CupThe Australian and New Zealand Governments today launch an historic joint bid to bring the FIFA Women’s World Cup to the Southern Hemisphere for the first time. Australian Minister for Youth and Sport, Richard Colbeck and New Zealand Minister for Sport and Recreation Grant Robertson will announce the bold campaign, ...3 days ago
- Blackwater gold mine gets PGF boostThe Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) has approved a $15 million loan to help re-establish a gold mining operation at Blackwater Gold Mine, near Reefton, Rural Communities Minister and local MP Damien O’Connor announced at an event on the West Coast today. “This is great news for the Coast that could ...3 days ago
- PapakÄinga model inspires whÄnau well-beingPapakāinga model inspires whānau well-being A housing project by Kohupātiki whānau in Hastings is an outstanding example of a Māori-led housing initiative that can reduce financial pressure and reconnect whānau to their whakapapa says the Minister for Māori Development Hon Nanaia Mahuta. Minister Mahuta officially opened the Aroha Te Rangi ...3 days ago
- Government provides more funding for major community wetland restoration projectRestoration efforts for a significant wetland in the Hawke’s Bay are getting more support announced Associate Minister for the Environment Eugenie Sage. “Wetlands are vital to healthy landscapes and ecosystems. They function as nature’s ‘kidneys’, filtering and protecting water quality, acting as nature’s sponges after rain and are home to ...3 days ago
- Housing First to help Nelson Tasman homelessNelson has today seen the launch of Housing First Nelson Tasman. Today’s launch marks the expansion of the Government’s homelessness programme, Housing First, to the top of the South Island. “Housing First is a proven programme that puts people who are experiencing homelessness and multiple, high and complex needs into ...3 days ago
- New funding to support Environment Centres working for sustainable local solutionsNew Government funding announced today will help communities make a difference in tackling environmental issues Associate Minister for the Environment Eugenie Sage announced in Hawkes Bay today. The Ministry for the Environment’s Community Environment Fund is dedicating $243,101 to growing the capacity and capability of the Environment Hubs Aotearoa’s (EHA) ...3 days ago
- Government takes bite out of loan sharksThe days of vulnerable consumers falling victim to loan sharks, truck shops and other predatory lenders are numbered, following the Credit Contracts Legislation Amendment Bill passing its third reading tonight. “Too many Kiwis are being given loans that are unaffordable and unsuitable, trapping them in debt and leaving their families ...4 days ago
- New Zealand safer as Terrorism Suppression (Control Orders Bill) becomes lawA Bill that prevents terrorism and supports the de-radicalisation of New Zealanders returning from overseas has passed its third reading, Justice Minister Andrew Little says. The Terrorism Suppression (Control Orders) Bill is a carefully targeted response to manage the risk posed by a small number of New Zealanders who have ...4 days ago
- Foreign Minister and Pacific Peoples Minister to visit SamoaForeign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio will travel to Samoa on Friday, where New Zealand medical teams are helping Samoa respond to an outbreak of measles. “New Zealand has been working closely with the Government of Samoa and offering our assistance from the ...4 days ago
- New Pastoral Care Code will support tertiary students in 2020The Government has changed the law to improve student safety and welfare in university halls of residence and other student accommodation. The Education (Pastoral Care) Amendment Bill passed its third reading this afternoon and details of an interim Code of Practice setting out the Government’s expectations of tertiary providers have also been released. ...4 days ago
- New infrastructure funding tool to build housing developments fasterA new tool to help councils fund and finance infrastructure could mean some housing developments happen a decade earlier than currently planned, Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford said today. “This new tool, developed by the Government in partnership with industry and high-growth councils, will allow councils to access private debt ...4 days ago
- Vision to unite the primary sector launched todayAgriculture Minister Damien O’Connor has welcomed the release of a bold new vision for the country’s vital food and fibre sector. “I’m delighted that New Zealand’s major farmer and grower organisations are today supporting the Primary Sector Council’s vision – Fit for a Better World,” he said. “The international consumers ...4 days ago
- NZ congratulates PNG and Autonomous Bougainville Government on referendumForeign Minister Winston Peters has congratulated the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government for completing a well-conducted referendum on the future political status of Bougainville. “New Zealand supported the referendum process by providing technical advice through the New Zealand Electoral Commission and leading a Regional Police ...4 days ago
- Next steps for Upper North Island logisticsIn light of Cabinet’s position that freight operations on prime land in downtown Auckland are no longer viable, the Government will now embark on a short work programme to enable decision-making in the first half of next year, Associate Transport Minister Shane Jones says. Minister Jones is today releasing the ...4 days ago
- Surgical mesh restorative justice report receivedAssociate Health Minister Julie Anne Genter has received the report back from a surgical mesh restorative justice process undertaken by Victoria University. The process heard stories, either in person or online submission, from more than 600 people affected by surgical mesh. “The report made for heart-breaking and confronting reading,” says ...4 days ago
- The Water Services Regulator Bill – Taumata Arowai a milestone for drinking water safetyThe Water Services Regulator Bill – Taumata Arowai , introduced to Parliament today, is a milestone for drinking water safety in New Zealand and will help improve environmental outcomes for urban waterways, rivers and lakes. “This is a breakthrough for New Zealanders in terms of providing safe drinking water throughout ...4 days ago
- Speech to new direction for criminal justice reform announcementKia ora koutouE ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā matā wakaTēnā koutou katoaHaere ngā, moe maiKoutou ma ngā Rangatira Ko Anaru ahauKo au te Minita mo ngā TureHe Honore tino nui kei roto I ahau No reira tena koutou katoa Today, we are releasing two reports that are the ...4 days ago
- New direction for criminal justice reformThe Government is looking to turn around the long-term challenges of criminal justice by taking a new approach to break the cycle of offending to ensure there are fewer victims of crime. Justice Minister Andrew Little released two reports today, Turuki! Turuki! from Te Uepū Hāpai I te Ora, and ...4 days ago
- New law sets up $300m Venture Capital FundNew Zealand firms expanding beyond the start-up phase are set for more support after today’s passage of the Venture Capital Fund Bill, Associate Finance Minister David Parker said. The Bill, which establishes a $300 million Venture Capital Fund, puts in place a key initiative of the Wellbeing Budget’s economic package. ...5 days ago
- New Zealandâs National Statement to COP25E ngā mana, e ngā reo, e ngā iwi, e ngā rau rangatira mā. Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa. Señora Presidenta, Excellencies, Delegates. International action A common thread that runs through the Paris Agreement is the commitment we have made to each other to do what we can to ...5 days ago
- Strong economy, careful spending gives $12bn of surplusesThe Government is forecast to run $12 billion worth of surpluses across the four years to 2023/24 as the economy continues to grow. The surpluses will help fund day-to-day capital requirements each year. These include fixing leaky hospitals, building new classrooms to cover population growth and take pressure off class ...5 days ago
- Priorities for 2020 Wellbeing Budget outlinedBudget 2020 will continue the Coalition Government’s focus on tackling the long-term challenges facing New Zealand while also investing to future-proof the economy. When the Government took office in 2017 it was left with crumbling infrastructure, severe underinvestment in public services, degraded rivers and lakes, a housing crisis and rising ...5 days ago
- $12 billion in extra infrastructure investmentThe Government is lifting capital investment to the highest level in more than 20 years as it takes the next step to future-proof New Zealand. Finance Minister Grant Robertson has announced $12 billion of new investment, with $8 billion for specific capital projects and $4 billion to be added to ...5 days ago
- Minister welcomes data-rich coastline mapping toolThe Minister responsible for the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011 (te Takutai Moana Act 2011), Andrew Little has welcomed the launch of an online geospatial tool that provides data-rich, dynamic coastline maps that will significantly boost research and evidence-gathering under the Act. Te Kete Kōrero a Te ...5 days ago
- Chief Victims Advisor reappointed for a further two yearsThe Chief Victims Advisor to Government Dr Kim McGregor, QSO, has been reappointed in her role for a further two years. Dr McGregor has held the role since it was established in November 2015. She provides independent advice to government on how to improve the criminal justice system for victims. ...5 days ago
- New Zealand tsunami monitoring and detection system to be establishedForeign Affairs Minister Winston Peters and Civil Defence Minister Peeni Henare have today announced the deployment of a network of DART (Deep-ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami) buoys. “New Zealand and the Pacific region are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. It is vital we have adequate warning systems in place,” ...5 days ago
- DART Buoys AnnouncementDART Buoys Announcement Aotea Wharf, 9.30am 11 December 2019 Acknowledgements Acknowledgements to Minister for Civil Defence Hon Peeni Henare also here today. White Island It is with regret that this event shadows the tragic natural disaster two days ago. The volcanic eruptions on White Island have claimed 5 lives, ...5 days ago
- Final steps for racing industry reformRacing Minister Winston Peters has welcomed the first reading of the Racing Industry Bill in parliament today. This is the second of two Bills that have been introduced this year to revitalise New Zealand’s racing industry. “Our domestic racing industry has been in serious decline. The Government is committed to ...6 days ago
- Monday’s Pro email: Housing market warming up again
The Government is heading into the last Parliamentary sitting week of the year with a slightly warming economy at its back and an election year of politicking and spending announcements ahead of it. ...25 mins ago - Bernardâs Pick of the links- Dec 16
National eyes switch fuel taxes for car Road User Charges; and business leaders quiz finance minister on capacity to spend $12b. ...42 mins ago - What’s in the newspapers – Dec 16
New Zealand's economic growth figures for the September quarter may mark a low-tide mark in the current economic cycle. ...57 mins ago - Protest and petition aiming to end Warkworth Rodeo
Anti-rodeo protesters will demonstrate outside the Warkworth Rodeo on New Year’s Day 2020 for the fifth year in a row. ...1 hour ago - Whatâs on RNZ News at 8am â Dec 16
The National Party is proposing to fine cyclists who do not use separated cycleways. ...1 hour ago - Tauranga courthouse to be replaced with new $100 million facility
Tauranga's leaky courthouse is to be replaced with a new $100 million facility designed to be "more humane" and "family-friendly" and could see judges dropped down from their raised platforms. ...1 hour ago - The 10 best New Zealand fiction books of 2019
Presenting: the third installment in our best-of-the-year series, put together by the Spinoff and various benevolent elves. This time it’s fiction. These are the books that moved us, that we walk around with in our heads, and that we are giving for Christmas, smug with the certainty that they’re absolutely ...1 hour ago - Government commitment to future of rail will save livesPlans announced for the future of New Zealand’s railways will save lives and strengthen the economy, and the Rail & Maritime Transport Union says the announcements highlight the importance of voting to keep National out in 2020. ...1 hour ago
- Creating a digital future for MaoriThe New Zealand Maori Councils Executive Director, Matthew Tukaki, has called the announcement of Communications Minister, Kris Faafoi, of the Crown and Maori’s agreement on one of the oldest Kaupapa Claims, Spectrum, a great result for Maori. ...1 hour ago
- Telecos gearing up for 5G spectrum auction in 2020Ultra-fast mobile telecommunications networks are coming sooner than expected after the government's decision to make unused radio spectrum available for a short term. ...1 hour ago
- NZ Should Emulate South Australia’s GE Moratorium15/12/2019 New Zealand should protect our global export reputation by following the example of South Australia's moratorium on release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms. [1] ...2 hours ago
- Tough nuts: why peanuts trigger such powerful allergic reactions
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dwan Price, Molecular Biologist and Postdoc @ Deakin AIRwatch pollen monitoring system., Deakin University Food allergens are the scourge of the modern school lunchbox. Many foods contain proteins that can set off an oversized immune reaction and one of the fiercest is ...2 hours ago - God made the rainbow: why the Bible welcomes every colour in the gender spectrumSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Robyn J. Whitaker, Senior Lecturer in New Testament, Pilgrim Theological College, University of Divinity This article is part of a series exploring gender and Christianity “God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve,” is a line I’ve heard more than once ...2 hours ago
- Refugees without secure visas have poorer mental health â but the news isnât all badSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Yulisha Byrow, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, UNSW There are more than 29.4 million forcibly displaced asylum seekers and refugees around the world. This global humanitarian crisis isn’t showing any signs of easing. Less than 1% of these people have been permanently resettled. This ...2 hours ago
- 5 reasons I always get children picture books for ChristmasSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kym Simoncini, Associate professor Early Childhood and Primary Education, University of Canberra Christmas is just around the corner. If you’re wondering what to get your child, your friends’ children, your nieces, nephews or basically any very young person in your life – ...2 hours ago
- Your Airbnb guest could be a tenant. Until the law is cleared up, hosts are in limboSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Bill John Swannie, Lecturer in College of Law and Justice, Victoria University With summer holidays around the corner, many Victorians may be thinking about offering their homes through a home-share platform, such as Airbnb, while they get away themselves. Airbnb’s terms of ...2 hours ago
- Must end soon! But not too soon! The catch in time-limited sales tacticsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Zizzo, Professor and Academic Dean of the School of Economics, The University of Queensland As Christmas shopping ramps up, you may be getting a lot of emails offering you attractive discounts for a short period only. You may see flash sales ...2 hours ago
- Jojo Rabbit: Hitler humour and a childâs eye view of war make for dark satireSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Nickl, Lecturer in International Comparative Literature and Translation Studies, University of Sydney Jojo Rabbit is not Disney Studios’ first foray into Hitler parody. In 1943, it produced der Fuehrer’s Face – an anti-Nazi film inside Donald Duck’s nightmares. Now, Disney is ...2 hours ago
- The Bulletin: Rapid public support for midwife petitionGood morning and welcome to The Bulletin. In today’s edition: Strong public support for midwife petition, Waipareira Trust defends massive Tamihere campaign donation, and most of the bodies on Whakaari now found.A petition for community midwives to get better funding and pay has absolutely taken off. Radio NZ reports the petition, which ...3 hours ago
- ‘No surprises’: principle or unprincipled?
While 'no surprises' was not generally known as a rule in 1999, by 2005 it was an unchallenged mantra. ...3 hours ago - Two Cents’ Worth: Banking on time
A new movement is seeing the rejuvenation of an ancient economic model. Claire Crofton looks into the growing trend of time-banking. ...4 hours ago - Xmas: win a big box of the year’s best books
ReadingRoom literary editor Steve Braunias offers a giveaway of the best New Zealand books of 2019 as a Xmas present for the lucky winner. ...4 hours ago - A strange British election looked even stranger to those of used to MMPUK-based New Zealand journalist Nicola Kean on Boris Johnson’s big victory, and the conundrum of voting under a FPP system.Politics is a brutal business. My clearest memory in the sleep-deprived aftermath of New Zealand’s 2017 campaign was Te Ururoa Flavell weeping in the Mediaworks carpark after stepping down as Māori ...4 hours ago
- Flawed forecasting? Why MMR vaccine ran out
In the face of a 2018 spike in global cases of measles and predictions the virus would reach NZ, Pharmac barely increased its forecast of vaccine demand. ...5 hours ago - A great NZ conservation success story
The majestic toroa/Northern Royal Albatross raise their chicks on Dunedin’s doorstep every year, with just a little bit of help from DoC ranger Jim Watts. ...5 hours ago - Kiwi surf star pushes back the horizon
Newly-crowned world canoe ocean racing champion and IronWoman star Danielle McKenzie loves hard work, but a frenetic few months paddling around the world have finally caught up with her. ...5 hours ago - MÄori TV changes migrants’ views on MÄori
Should public broadcasters counter negative ideas migrants have about Māori? Susan Nemec of the University of Auckland thinks so. ...5 hours ago - The language of snoring
What do you think about the subject of snoring? It turns out your views are likely related to whether or not you’ve Googled it. ...5 hours ago - One big idea to transform travel in New ZealandNew Zealand’s universities have a shocking record on emissions. If they band together, however, they could make a massive difference. Shaun Hendy explains.Humour me for a minute by imagining that the University of Auckland was facing a 40% budget blowout next year. Of course, you chuckle, this would never happen. ...5 hours ago
- Letâs not get too prudish about pornographyEven on a subject that can generate pearl-clutching, good policy-making wouldn’t be complete without a discussion of the benefits, writes Jenesa JeramWhen I was a kid, I was the last of my friends to learn what a BJ stood for. Of course, I pretended I knew, because that’s what kids ...5 hours ago
- Combating the climate change deniers
If you find yourself in an argument with climate change-denying relatives this Christmas, here's the ammunition you need. ...5 hours ago - National wants to fine cyclists who don’t use dedicated cyclewaysThe cycleway fine is part of the party's transport ideas that will be announced tomorrow. ...15 hours ago
- COLFO Confirms Number of Banned Firearms in NZCOLFO Confirms Number of Banned Firearms in New Zealand at Upper End of Police Estimates SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ...18 hours ago
- Reefton gold mine subsidy undermines DOC landThe Provincial Growth Fund giving $13 million to a gold mining project under DOC land on the West Coast is a disgraceful waste of public money says Coromandel Watchdog, a group fighting gold mining in Hauraki. ...22 hours ago
- CEAC are strongly in support of Government rail funding planCEAC reviewed the NZTA National Land Transport Programme “2021–24 NLTP development” plan to see the support for rail funding was there, and NZTA is now seen as ‘anti-rail’ in their NLTP plans, contrary to Government policy to use rail - heads must roll. ...22 hours ago
- The worldâs longest commute: Advice for Kiwi startups trying to make it in the UKKiwi startup founder Jenene Crossan has spent two years enduring jetlag and heinous London Airbnb prices as she builds her latest business.Jenene Crossan, co-founder and CEO of beauty booking service Flossie, has spent most of the past two years sitting in airport lounges and living out of suitcases in a bid ...1 day ago
- Decade in review: The 10 live-show moments that defined the decadeFrom New Zealand’s biggest band selling out Western Springs to a landmark moment for Pasifika women onstage, these are the live events that shaped New Zealand this decade.An anchor in the middle of the deep blue sea: Daffodils, 2014 Todd Emerson and Colleen Davis in Daffodils, on stage at the Traverse ...1 day ago
- Review: Colonial Combat reinvents colonisation as a level playing fieldIs there something to be learned from TVNZ’s Wild West-meets-WWE-meets-19th-century-New Zealand web series? After all, writes Sharon Mazer, colonisation, like professional wrestling, is a fixed match.The premise underlying TVNZ’s new web series Colonial Combat is anachronistic and preposterous, even by WWE standards. It’s also fascinating.Transported from American popular culture to ...1 day ago
- What to do if youâre sad at ChristmasFor a lot of people, there’s not much joy to be found at Christmas. Emily Writes spoke to Dr Sarah Bell-Booth and Gwendoline Smith about how to deal with the hard stuff in the face of all that relentless holiday cheer.Despite my anxiety, I generally enjoy Christmas now that I ...1 day ago
- Apology to Alexandra AllanThis contained incorrect information regarding the remuneration of Alexandra Allan. The item has now been deleted and Scoop unreservedly apologises to Ms Allan for the distress caused due to this publication. ...2 days ago
- The best-selling books this Xmas
This week's biggest-selling New Zealand books, as recorded by the Nielsen BookScan New Zealand bestseller list and described by Steve Braunias. ...2 days ago - Conservative landslide at UKâs Brexit election; Trumpâs ratings rise on strong US economySource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Melbourne At the December 12 UK election, the Conservatives won 365 of the 650 House of Commons seats (up 48 since the 2017 election), Labour 202 (down 60), the Scottish National ...2 days ago
- Johnsonâs thumping win an electoral lesson in not just having policies, but knowing how to sell th...Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Tormey, Professor of Politics, University of Bristol So for all the talk of narrowing polls, tactical voting, and possible shocks leading to a hung parliament, Boris Johnson achieved a crushing victory over Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party in the UK’s ...2 days ago
- Obituary: Sir Peter Snell, the inscrutable genius of middle distance runningSir Peter Snell has died, aged 80, at his home in Dallas, Texas. James McOnie remembers arguably New Zealand’s greatest ever athlete.Sir Peter Snell was so great that small towns still engage in custody battles over the legendary runner.His birthplace Opunake (where he spent his first 11 years) claims him, ...2 days ago
- MÄori Injustice Issues Will Have More VisibilityMāori Injustice Issues Will Have More Visibility Thanks to New Panel Advising Ombudsman A prominent Māori leader, Lady Tureiti Moxon believes Māori injustice issues will be seen much more now thanks to Pūhara Mana Tangata, a first-time Māori panel appointed ...2 days ago
- KiwiRail investment through Land Transport fund: government proposal ‘historic’ – ...The government is moving to fast-track billions in funding for rail investments in a change that is being hailed as historic. ...2 days ago
- Short story: Rack, by Emma Neale
“It was right there in the waiting room that Jack first told me he was finding it hard to separate his fingers”: a parent’s nightmare, by Dunedin writer Emma Neale. ...2 days ago - The 10 best New Zealand non-fiction books of 2019We started picking a top 10 ourselves and puttered out at about #3, sick of the sound of our own voice. Bugger it, we thought, and sent for assistance. It’s been like Christmas ever since, an inbox flowing over with gorgeous, sincere little gifts. Here’s the nonfiction selection, in no ...2 days ago
- Leading us through lossThe leadership shown by tangata whenua at every national disaster and tragedy should be recognised and honoured by all of us, writes Catherine Delahunty.I do appreciate having a prime minister who is capable of expressing decent, human emotions when tragedies descend on us. It’s a sadly low bar that she ...2 days ago
- Black Stick’s determined journey from Apiti to Albany
From the pockmarked rugby paddock of Apiti, to the smooth, iridescent-blue turf of Albany, Black Sticks defender Steph Dickins' hockey journey has come a long way. ...2 days ago - The freakiest stuff you can buy for just $1 this ChristmasIf you want to shock and amaze your friends and family this Christmas, look no further than the deep recesses of $1 reserve Trade Me. Folks, I’m going to let you in on a huge Christmas secret here: you can get all your presents for $1 if you know where to ...2 days ago
- Rules and revelations: The Govett-Brewsterâs gutsy 50th birthday rehangTo celebrate the 50th birthday of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre in New Plymouth, Walters Prize-winning artist Ruth Buchanan has rehung their collection, bringing previously unseen works and skeletons out of the closet. Her new exhibition The scene in which I find myself/Or, where does my body belong examines ...2 days ago
- 12 months of upheaval, pain and pride: on watching New Zealand from afarIt is hard to remember a year in which New Zealand was so repeatedly in global headlines, writes Kamahl Santamaria, a Kiwi journalist based in Doha.Time zones are a strange thing. You go to sleep, and then for eight hours or so, you miss out on everything happening on the ...2 days ago
- Lucky Boris â now the long game begins
Napoleon demanded that his generals be lucky. Conservative PM Boris Johnson, as he surveys a thumping victory in the British general election, would meet that criterion. His luck bears a resemblance to that of Margaret Thatcher. Like her, he has made a decisive break with orthodox establishment thinking. That presents ...2 days ago - View from The Hill: Morrison wonât have a bar of public service intrusions on governmentâs powerSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Scott Morrison has rejected or sidelined a number of recommendations from the long-awaited Thodey review of the public service that might have constrained his and his government’s power. Not surprisingly, a proposal to ensure changes ...2 days ago
- Seymour hopes for new colleagues as ACT’s numbers grow
The ACT leader says his arguments haven't changed - but the circumstances that make them relevant have. ...3 days ago - Week in Politics: Billions to be spent and most of it on roadsAnalysis - The "do nothing" government announces a big spend-up on infrastructure, moving the Port of Auckland, and Winston Peters throws his weight behind NZME's bid to buy Stuff. ...3 days ago
- VIDEO: Michelle Grattan reflects on the year in politicsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra [embedded content]For their last video for the year, University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor Deep Saini and Michelle Grattan look backwards to the big issues which have shaped political discourse. They discuss the surprise election results, and ...3 days ago
- PM pays tribute to NgÄti AwaPrime Minister Jacinda Ardern has acknowledged Ngāti Awa for their role as tangata whenua (people of the land) in leading and caring for affected whānau (family members), following the Whakaari / White Island eruption and recovery operation earlier today. ...3 days ago
- Have your say on the Urban Development BillThe Environment Committee has opened for public submissions on the Urban Development Bill. The bill follows on from the Kāinga Ora–Homes and Communities bill, which disestablished Housing New Zealand and set up a Crown entity in the same name. ...3 days ago
- God as man, man as God: no wonder many Christian men today are having a masculinity crisisSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By William Loader, Emeritus Professor of New Testament at Murdoch University, Murdoch University This article is part of our Gender and Christianity series. To understand contemporary Christian ideas about gender, and specifically masculinity, we need to go all the way back to the ...3 days ago
- Australia needs a national crisis plan, and not just for bushfiresSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Gissing, General Manager, Risk Frontiers, Adjunct Fellow, Macquarie University Calls are growing for a national bushfire plan, including from former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, who says they are an issue of national security and the federal government must provide hands-on leadership. ...3 days ago
- NZ First praised for rejecting MÄori seat entrenchmentPro-democracy lobby group Democracy Action welcome New Zealand First’s commitment to hold firm rejecting the Te Tai Tonga MP Rino Tirikatene’s bill to entrench the Māori seats. The Bill, which would require any changes to the seats to require the ...3 days ago
- The Real Pod: In which Colin Mathura-Jeffree tells us the story of the decadeThe Real Pod assembles to dissect the week in reality television and real life, with special thanks to Nando’s.Sometimes you are just doing a podcast as usual and then Colin Mathura-Jeffree gives you a call and throws your world off its axis. In a very special edition of Colin’s Cranny: Live, ...3 days ago
- The decade in art, from Quasi to the Turner Prize and beyondWe get a handle on the artists and artworks that shaped this decade in Aotearoa.As 2019 draws to a close, the four nominees for this year’s Turner Prize subverted the competition – they asked to receive the award as a collective. Meanwhile, at Art Basel Miami Beach, a banana taped ...3 days ago
- Otago institutions work to create centre for rural health education
Three Otago institutions are teaming up to improve the future of rural health care. ...3 days ago - Andrew Littleâs justice reform report is just that â another report. Itâs time for actionThe second and final report of Te Uepū Hāpai i te Ora, the Safe and Effective Justice Advisory Group, contains nothing we didn’t know 30 years ago. Yet generations of politicians have ignored the same advice, writes Laura O’Connell Rapira.Between the 1950s and 1990s, New Zealand experienced seismic social, economic ...3 days ago
- Tough trading eats into Z Energy’s revenue
Fuel company Z Energy has cut its earnings forecast for the year by 10 percent because of tougher competition and falling margins, and is forecasting a big cut in dividends. ...3 days ago - House sales price increases
House prices are on the rise again with record increases in 10 regions, but with fewer sales overall. ...3 days ago - Liquidators retrieve Cryptopia customer info from Arizona
Liquidators of the hacked cryptocurrency exchange Cryptopia have travelled to the United States, to retrieve customers' information and certain crypto-assets. ...3 days ago - Right-swipes and red flags â how young people negotiate sex and safety on dating appsSource: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kath Albury, Professor of Media and Communication, Faculty of Health, Arts and Design, Swinburne University of Technology Popular commentary on dating apps often associates their use with “risky” sex, harassment and poor mental health. But anyone who has used a dating app ...3 days ago
- Your Christmas shopping could harm or help the planet. Which will it be?Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Louise Grimmer, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics, University of Tasmania Australian shoppers are set to spend $52.7 billion this Christmas. In the words of the retail industry, we are “stampeding” to empty our wallets, both online and ...3 days ago
- Shame on all media that fell for the fake fart newsNZ Herald and many other media outlets ran a story on a man whose farts could repel mosquitos, despite the story coming from a satire news site and not being verified in any way, writes Dan Satherly for Newshub.“Man’s farts so deadly he kills mosquitoes in a 6m radius” is ...3 days ago
- Timing right to borrow our way to a stronger economyTiming right to borrow our way to a stronger economy in 2020 The Government’s announcement of its intent to invest significantly in the county’s infrastructure could turbo charge an economic recovery that was already showing positive signs for ...3 days ago
- Whatâs on RNZ News at midday â Dec 13
The Government’s homelessness program ‘ Housing First’ has expanded to the top of the South Island. ...3 days ago
- Spread the Word
If you like this, check out more from the good people at Improv Everywhere. They even have branches (not very active!) in some NZ cities.
>Seriously good fun
Maybe, but lousy taste in music…
Lousy? Heresy! đ
Life should be like this everyday. We should all break into song and dance (and in time with one another). I love it.
Life’s a musical đ