Sheepgate the final chapter

Written By: - Date published: 7:38 am, February 12th, 2019 - 44 comments
Categories: david parker, national, same old national, the praiseworthy and the pitiful, trade, you couldn't make this shit up - Tags: , ,

One of the weirdest episodes in New Zealand politics is now at an end.  The Government has pulled the plug on the Saudi Sheepgate deal.

I have followed the story for a while.  A more potentially corrupt use of state resources I cannot imagine.  When you boil it down it sounds totally insane.  And it was. Here is my earlier description:

When the history of this National Government is reviewed by academics and scholars the tale of Sheepgate will stand out.  In future years people will wonder if it was even true or the insane invention of someone high on drugs.  Because if ever a series of posts deserved the “you can’t make this shit up” it is these.

Lets recap the history:

… a rich Saudi businessman became upset when New Zealand stopped live sheep exports following a particularly disastrous ship trip during which four thousand sheep died.  National made noises as if the ban would be reversed but then resiled from this.  To assuage the rich Saudi businessman’s feelings a total of $11.5 million of taxpayer’s money has been or is being paid.  The sums include a “compensation but not a compensation” payment which was designed to keep the lawyers away from it and which incorporated a payment to the Saudi businessman for intellectual property for hosting New Zealand sheep on a New Zealand designed farm.  The rest included the construction of a model farm in the middle of the Saudi desert and plane tickets for 900 sheep, most of which died after landing.

It seems clear the payment was essentially a facilitation payment to get the Saudi’s to sign a free trade agreement.  Not only is this on the face of it corrupt, but it has so far failed so it is also clear evidence of incompetence.

Initially McCully tried to sneak the issue through Cabinet and then hide the mess.  And when it was reported on National used that good old technique of blaming Labour for the situation.

The Auditor General became involved.  National celebrated a finding that McCully had not acted corruptly.  How low National’s standards are.

And now, years later, we still have no trade deal with Saudi Arabia.  Not only was the deal an example of a potentially corrupt payment to an individual in hope that there would be a free trade agreement signed by a foreign state but it was something worse.  It was a failed attempt to get a free trade agreement signed.

 And won’t someone think of the sheep?

I said this earlier:

To make matters even worse it has been reported that three quarters of the lambs born to the ewes who were transported to the farm have died from causes such as starvation, scours and issues around animal husbandry.  Who would have thought that placing New Zealand sheep on a farm in the middle of a desert would be so disastrous?

Well it is finally at an end.  David Parker has pulled the pin on the last part of the deal and saved us a million dollars.  From the Herald:

The controversial Saudi sheep deal been shut down, which the Government says will save about $1 million.

The deal was made to set up an agribusiness hub in the Saudi desert for Saudi businessman Hmood Al Ali Al Khalaf, which would be used to showcase innovative New Zealand farming operations.

Taxpayer spending on the agrihub was approved by the previous National Government in February 2013, and the following year 900 sheep were flown over on Singapore Airlines.

But Trade Minister David Parker said the deal has now been axed.

“We’re not spending any more money on its installation or delivery,” Parker told 1 NEWS.

“We have managed to bring it to an end, saving the last million dollars or so. But I’m afraid the other $10 million that has already been spent has been flushed down the drain by the prior Government.”

It means that a $2.5m kitset abattoir, which is in the Hawke’s Bay and was intended for the hub, will no longer be sent overseas.

About $1.17m had been identified for abattoir delivery and installation.

Matthew Hooton has been a trenchant critic of the deal and has not held back in his summary of what happened.

https://twitter.com/MatthewHootonNZ/status/1094866387787489281

The major players have of course gone.  McCully has retired and Key has his knighthood and is doing various corporate gigs.

But the next time someone tells you that National are better managers tell them about the time they built a sheep station in a Saudi desert and how almost all the sheep died and how they paid an individual $4 million to settle a legal claim that did not actually exist, forgot to get him to agree that the dispute that did not exist had been settled, and failed in the whole reason for the exercise, and that was to get a free trade deal with Saudi Arabia.

44 comments on “Sheepgate the final chapter ”

  • Comments are now closed

  1. Incognito 1
    12 February 2019 at 7:51 am

    A few million sheeple where led astray by fake economic shepherds.

  2. patricia bremner 2
    12 February 2019 at 8:40 am

    The report that an” Abattoir was ready packed waiting to go.. What the???”

  3. tc 3
    12 February 2019 at 9:17 am

    At least the govt can stop this one. It’s the long term economic and social losses from the power generation asset stripping and the wilful hollowing out of education, health, housing, environment etc that is shonky blinglishes true legacy.

    Oh and that convention center thats giving Fletcher’s indigestion as they’re eyes are too big for their stomachs. Some dead rats don’t go down that well.

  4. marty mars 4
    12 February 2019 at 9:30 am

    It has been a debaacle.

  5. Robert Guyton 5
    12 February 2019 at 9:35 am

    National knew that they could pull the wool over the eyes of the New Zealand public long enough to get away with anything at all. They know how to do it and have shown that they will do it to suit their own ends. I hope Wayne Mapp appears here to comment on this issue.

  6. ianmac 6
    12 February 2019 at 9:42 am

    I wonder if McCully could spend $11 million without blinking, what else might have happened out of sight?

  7. Cinny 7
    12 February 2019 at 9:47 am

    Excellent work from Mr Parker, he continuously asked question while in opposition and has walked the talk re the saudi sheep saga since coming into government.

  8. alwyn 8
    12 February 2019 at 9:59 am

    This simply illustrates why we need to change the Government regularly.
    No Government will ever abandon something they started. They simply refuse to admit that a policy was mistaken and dump it. You need a new Government who will dump the white elephants.
    That is, of course, the reason why Governments should never get involved in running businesses. No matter how badly things are going they will never admit they got it wrong.
    At least in this case it has only cost us about $10 million.

    Now let us see whether the current mob will dump a ridiculous scheme that has even less chance of being a success. It is also one where it will, if not scrapped now, cost us something more like $10 billion rather the $10 million.

    Dump Kiwibuild. Better still dump the idiot responsible and kick Twyford out of Cabinet.
    Will they do it? Of course not. They don’t have the sense to do something so sensible.

    While they are about it will they also scrap the foolishness that is the tram to the airport in Auckland. I think I saw something recently that said the price is now up to an estimated $6 billion.
    Ah, here is the source of the figure. Surprise, surprise The Cabinet Minister responsible here is also the Village Idiot of New Zealand politics. Phil, take another bow.
    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12057244

    ps. While they are about it can they please scrap the fiasco that is the America’s cup? I see that a further $37 million from the Government and the Auckland Council is going into that black hole.
    https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/110522994/auckland-council-plans-220m-tax-dodge

    • Formerly Ross 8.1
      12 February 2019 at 10:18 am

      I did enjoy your rant, especially that government should not get involved with business. Yes that’s why we have full employment, high wages and no homeless people. The private sector is so efficient!! Remind me again how many men died at Pike River?

      Here’s a couple of recent example where the private sector failed dismally and acted shamefully. You’ll no doubt find an excuse for such behaviour.

      https://i.stuff.co.nz/business/110463611/stung-with-9000-compensation-cafe-owner-turns-to-givealittle

        • alwyn 8.1.1.1
          12 February 2019 at 11:00 am

          I see no reason at all to approve of this. On the other hand I am not the one who is forced to pay for it. When a Government organisation screws up, and some Cabinet Minister’s ego is involved I am,
          This case is really not what I was talking about though is it? My complaint is the people who, because they are completely incapable of admitting they are wrong insist on propping up things that should be closed down. Phil Twyford is the perfect example.

      • alwyn 8.1.2
        12 February 2019 at 10:55 am

        My “rant” as you call it makes no claim at all that the private sector always gets things right. Of course they don’t.

        What does happen though is that the person who screws up doesn’t have an unlimited line of uninvolved people who are forced to keep throwing money into the hole. If a business starts spending money on rubbishy projects there is a much better chance that the person responsible will get sacked. If that doesn’t happen the only people who will be burnt are the willing investors. If an investor isn’t happy with the way a company is being run they can sell their ownership share and get out.

        Taxpayers don’t have that option.
        So no. I don’t think that the private sector is always right and I certainly see no need to justify everything they do. I don’t have to be personally involved either.
        If you want to waste your money on trashy schemes go right ahead. Just don’t force me to share the cost.

        • Kevin 8.1.2.1
          12 February 2019 at 11:16 am

          I must have imagined that the Government bailed out SCF then.

          • alwyn 8.1.2.1.1
            12 February 2019 at 11:30 am

            No you don’t need to imagine that at all.
            I suggest you address the following question to Michael Cullen though.
            “Why did you include SCF, which was certainly not a critical part of the New Zealand banking system, in the Guarantee scheme?”
            I’ll bet you don’t get an answer out of him though.

            • blacksand 8.1.2.1.1.1
              12 February 2019 at 4:04 pm

              Are you quite sure of your facts there? It still looks very much like SCF was admitted into the scheme on 19th Nove, 2008.

              Funnily enough on the first day in office of John Key’s govt, someone who supposedly knew a thing or two about banking.

              • veutoviper …
                12 February 2019 at 4:28 pm

                Correct.

                The election was held on 8 November 2008, and the minority National Government led by John Key sworn in on 19 November 2008, – the same day as the Secretary to The Treasury approved SCF admission to the guarantee scheme.

                • alwyn …
                  12 February 2019 at 5:44 pm

                  Yes, you are quite right.
                  The scheme itself, and the firms covered had however been arranged by the outgoing, caretaker, Government. It was in fact implemented on 12 October 2008.

                  The firms accepted into the scheme, although selected by the outgoing Government couldn’t have their admission to the scheme approved for Constitutional reasons reasons. They were only a caretaker Government and couldn’t commit the Crown to these obligations by that time. You were, I believe a Public Servant VV. I am sure you are aware of the conventions. Thus the admission of the firms to the scheme couldn’t be done until we actually had a new Government, with a mandate, in place.

                  I am sure that National were accepting of the scheme. There was no real choice after the actions of the Australian Government. Cullen shouldn’t, at least in my view have accepted all the firms that applied however.

                  If you really think that it was the Key Government who arranged it in the first half hour of their term I hope you won’t try and blame National for things that are happening after about 16 months of the current lot of twits?

            • Tuppence Shrewsbury 8.1.2.1.1.2
              12 February 2019 at 4:30 pm

              but $1 million in corrupt spending is still way worse than $2 billion in wasted in spending because the intentions for the $2 billion are right. figures don’t matter, only virtue

              • alwyn …
                12 February 2019 at 6:09 pm

                $2 billion in wasted spending?
                You are dreaming. We already have that in the Kiwibuild. Then there is the $3 billion in the Jones slush fund. The budget for the tram to the airport is up to the grand sum of $6 billion. A couple of billion for cycleways for a few cyclists. $250 million on the America’s cup.
                Then their is the money Winston is going to provide to his racehorse owning mates for their pretty horses and all weather tracks.

    • joe90 8.2
      12 February 2019 at 10:41 am

      This simply illustrates why we need to change the Government regularly.

      McCully’s willingness to pay baksheesh and his party’s attempt at justifying bribery simply illustrates just how fucking corrupt National is and why we need our own Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.

      /

      • alwyn 8.2.1
        12 February 2019 at 11:14 am

        I shall leave you to your delusions. I suppose you think that the coalition party that is in the Government’s dealings with fishing companies are all completely innocent and high minded? No doubt everything is done with only the interests of thee New Zealand public at their heart.

        And don’t say that doesn’t involve the Labour Party. They went into coalition with them and are just as guilty for any dodgy deals.

        And isn’t it amazing that the partner of one of the current Ministers is suddenly the recipient, through the firm he is involved with, of lots and lots of contracts that were issued without going out to tender? Far more than were issued by the previous Government.
        Nothing wrong with that of course. The Government Departments have suddenly become enlightened by the amazing skills that are on offer.

    • Gabby 8.3
      12 February 2019 at 11:28 am

      What’s Munter McMutton up to these days wally? Gettin any Sowdy connected ‘consultancy work’?

      • veutoviper 8.3.1
        12 February 2019 at 12:04 pm

        I was wondering that myself,

        So, first, his own consultancy firm established in 2017:

        Murray McCully, Chairman, McCully Consulting Group
        Strategic Counsel, Public and Private Diplomacy,
        Barrister of the High Court of New Zealand

        https://www.murraymccully.com/

        “… Following his retirement from Parliament, Murray McCully is available to discuss assignments that draw on his knowledge of national and global affairs, which includes:
        Good understanding of major issues across key trading partners.
        Excellent network of relationships including China, South East Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
        Strong exposure to international law and the operation of international institutions.
        Close familiarity with the Pacific region and good personal relationships with key decision makers.
        Good understanding of international development issues and processes.
        Long experience of New Zealand Government decision making processes.
        Strong background in political risk/crisis management.”

        Second, from July 2018 , chair of the Papua New Guinea New Zealand Business Council:

        https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/programmes/datelinepacific/audio/2018655635/murray-mccully-heads-nz-png-business-council

        ” The new chair of the Papua New Guinea New Zealand Business Council, Murray McCully, says PNG wants to engage more with New Zealand’s agriculture sector.

        But the previous chair, Tamati Norman, who was asked to step aside for the former New Zealand Foreign Minister, says the council is failing its purpose. …

        To make way for Mr McCully, businessman Tamati Norman was asked by the council to step aside and work with him as the new chair. Instead, Mr Norman decided to leave entirely.

        He was asked if Mr McCully is the right man for the job.

        “A better question is did he have any engagement with us in the six years that I was in the executive, and the answer is no.”

        Mr Norman says the council focuses too much on the oil, gas and mining industries in PNG and needs to do a better job of engaging with other sectors.

        So Mr McCully’s promise of agricultural engagement may be a welcome sign of change within the council, but Mr Norman says there are other issues too.

        “We had our 25 year celebration and that 25 year anniversary was held at the Northern Club. Tell me how that is representative of a Pacific business.”

        The Northern Club, an exclusive club in Auckland’s CBD, once had a reputation for excluding women and Māori.

        The business council has held at least 3 events there this year.”

        Also a little snippet re McCully in article last week re the potential Blue-Green party and Vernon Tava – supposedly the new Sustainable New Zealand Party announced a few days ago

        https://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/mediawatch/audio/2018680526/a-potential-political-party-hooks-the-media

        ” … ZB’s Heather Du Plessis-Allan said a new party was “definitely happening”.

        She said she had told her editors about a source who had been approached by Michelle Boag and National Party strategist Murray McCully about the idea “weeks ago”.

        Heather Du Plessis-Allan told listeners Vernon Tava did not want to speak to her about that at the time….

    • AB 8.4
      12 February 2019 at 12:00 pm

      “Governments should never get involved in running businesses”
      Yeah – these guys sound pretty useless and these guys too.

      • alwyn 8.4.1
        12 February 2019 at 1:06 pm

        Equinor is of course a publicly listed company, in which the Government owns a majority of the shares.
        Just like Meridian, Mercury and so on. As such it has to follow all the rules for Public Companies and Ministers can’t make them carry out any stupid ideas they might have. In other words it is not a Government run business.

        Did you read the recent history of the TVA? Say the last 30 years. Not very pretty is it? In fact its successful days were pretty well over by about 1950.

        • AB 8.4.1.1
          12 February 2019 at 2:54 pm

          Bollocks. What these and countless other examples show is that hard and fast rules (like your initial sweeping statement) are the provenance of ideological idiots.

          • alwyn 8.4.1.1.1
            12 February 2019 at 5:51 pm

            That’s nice dear.
            Do you think that Kiwibuild is going well and it’s time to double down on the wager?
            Or that we shouldn’t even think of setting any targets for the scheme because if we do people will be able to see whether it is worth it?
            Or do you think that the Saudi scheme shouldn’t be examined because they meant well?
            Or is it just that you are an ideological idiot?

    • patricia bremner 8.5
      12 February 2019 at 2:59 pm

      Alwyn… Twyford went to Cabinet to Reconfigure as needs changed. He has spoken publicly about Kiwi build. The Saudi Deal was a dirty secret, hardly a business!!

      • alwyn 8.5.1
        12 February 2019 at 6:00 pm

        “Reconfigure”. What a lovely word. What you mean is that there are not going to be any targets set, measures of how well, or badly, it is going because it would allow the public to see that Twyford is a twit.

        It isn’t the official term of course. Twitford and Ardern have decided the correct term is “recalibration”. What they mean of course is that the number of houses we are likely to get has dropped from the promised “huge” number to something so miniscule as to be unobservable.
        Rather like replacing the planned 16 inch main guns on a battleship with 0.177 inch air rifles. The are just choosing a different calibre.

        The Saudi deal never made any sense to me. However to describe it as a “secret” is certainly rather silly. If it was a “secret” how did you find out about it?

    • Tricledrown 8.6
      14 February 2019 at 12:08 am

      Americas cup is about the boat building industry and Tourism. The tax dodge headline is just media BS. Reading the story if the council transfers the land before the date of a new tax. Is not a tax dodge. Its following the law.

      • alwyn 8.6.1
        14 February 2019 at 12:21 am

        “The Government is committing an extra $22.5 million to the America’s Cup. But it will only be paid if Auckland Council coughs up another $14.5 million to help pay for higher than expected infrastructure costs for the 2021 event.”
        Did you miss that bit at the start of the link?
        That is what I was talking about. The rubbish about the tax arrangements is just trivia.

  9. mac1 9
    12 February 2019 at 11:44 am

    And as the gate swings shut, and the truck departs for the works, all that is left is the dust and the dags and the droppings.

    The farmer brushes his hands off and heads to the local. The stock agent departs in his double cab. The dog pants in the kennel. A cheque arrives in the mail.

    Nothing changes.

  10. mosa 10
    12 February 2019 at 11:54 am

    I find it repugnant that for a lousy deal with the Saudis we were willing to inflict torture and death on millions of sheep.
    The footage of these ” live ” exports shows we have a long way to go with our animal welfare practices and our cruel mentality.
    This whole deal should serve as a warning of what happens when you don’t follow due process and try to cover up the actions of a sworn minister.
    On this point i agree with Hooten ” its not corrupt when a kiwi does it “

    • marty mars 10.1
      12 February 2019 at 1:04 pm

      The welfare of the sheep was the last thing on their minds. They treat the people like they treat the sheep.

    • patricia bremner 10.2
      12 February 2019 at 3:02 pm

      Mosa, money is important to the Gnats. Not People Not sheep Not our reputation.

    • bwaghorn 10.3
      12 February 2019 at 6:05 pm

      Nz stopped live exports a while back accept in this dodgy little saga . The loop hole mccully used was because they weren’t going direct to slaughter . But only fucking morons could see that those sheep would end up at the slaughter house if they lived long enough . There are know retirement homes for sheep .

  11. Sacha 11
    12 February 2019 at 6:17 pm

    No trade deal after all that! McCully couldn’t even do corruption properly. In a well-governed country he would be in jail (or alternatively a palatial mansion for his services to the powerful).

  12. RRM 12
    13 February 2019 at 8:07 am

    $11m is about 3 hours’ worth of trade with China.

    Way to go Labour, you’re really fighting the fights that matter!

    • Robert Guyton 12.1
      13 February 2019 at 8:43 am

      Parker ended this prolonged stoush decisively. Now, he can take on the other running battles and win those as well.

  13. NZJester 13
    13 February 2019 at 11:14 am

    Perhaps some more money can be salvaged if the equipment can be sold. Unfortunately, I doubt they will be able to sell it for cost as if it put up for tender, the potential buyers knowing the situation will try and lowball their price.

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    2 days ago

  • Western Express Success
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    Greater AucklandBy Matt L
    2 days ago

  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 7:16am on Monday, April 22
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 7:16am on Monday, April 22:Labour says Kiwis at greater risk from loan sharks as Govt plans to remove borrowing regulations NZ Herald Jenee TibshraenyHow did the cost of moving two schools blow out to more than $400m?A ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • The Kaka’s diary for the week to April 29 and beyond
    TL;DR: The six key events to watch in Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the week to April 29 include:PM Christopher Luxon is scheduled to hold a post-Cabinet news conference at 4 pm today. Stats NZ releases its statutory report on Census 2023 tomorrow.Finance Minister Nicola Willis delivers a pre-Budget speech at ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #16
    A listing of 29 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 14, 2024 thru Sat, April 20, 2024. Story of the week Our story of the week hinges on these words from the abstract of a fresh academic ...
    Skeptical Science
    2 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    The ability of the private sector to quickly establish major new projects making use of the urban and natural environment is to be supercharged by the new National-led Government. Yesterday it introduced to Parliament one of its most significant reforms, the Fast Track Approvals Bill. The Government says this will ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    2 days ago

  • Thank you
    This is a column to say thank you. So many of have been in touch since Mum died to say so many kind and thoughtful things. You’re wonderful, all of you. You’ve asked how we’re doing, how Dad’s doing. A little more realisation each day, of the irretrievable finality of ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago

  • Determining the Engine Type in Your Car
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Become a Race Car Driver: A Comprehensive Guide
    Introduction: The allure of racing is undeniable. The thrill of speed, the roar of engines, and the exhilaration of competition all contribute to the allure of this adrenaline-driven sport. For those who yearn to experience the pinnacle of racing, becoming a race car driver is the ultimate dream. However, the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Many Cars Are There in the World in 2023? An Exploration of Global Automotive Statistics
    Introduction Automobiles have become ubiquitous in modern society, serving as a primary mode of transportation and a symbol of economic growth and personal mobility. With countless vehicles traversing roads and highways worldwide, it begs the question: how many cars are there in the world? Determining the precise number is a ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take for Car Inspection?
    Maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle requires regular inspections. Whether it’s a routine maintenance checkup or a safety inspection, knowing how long the process will take can help you plan your day accordingly. This article delves into the factors that influence the duration of a car inspection and provides an ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Who Makes Mazda Cars?
    Mazda Motor Corporation, commonly known as Mazda, is a Japanese multinational automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Aki District, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The company was founded in 1920 as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., and began producing vehicles in 1931. Mazda is primarily known for its production of passenger cars, but ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Often to Replace Your Car Battery A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What Are Struts on a Car?
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    3 days ago

  • What Does Car Registration Look Like: A Comprehensive Guide
    Car registration is a mandatory process that all vehicle owners must complete annually. This process involves registering your car with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and paying an associated fee. The registration process ensures that your vehicle is properly licensed and insured, and helps law enforcement and other authorities ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Share Computer Audio on Zoom
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Put Your Computer to Sleep
    Sleep mode is a power-saving state that allows your computer to quickly resume operation without having to boot up from scratch. This can be useful if you need to step away from your computer for a short period of time but don’t want to shut it down completely. There are ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What is Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT)?
    Introduction Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) has revolutionized the field of translation by harnessing the power of technology to assist human translators in their work. This innovative approach combines specialized software with human expertise to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and consistency of translations. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • iPad vs. Tablet Computers A Comprehensive Guide to Differences
    In today’s digital age, mobile devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Among the vast array of portable computing options available, iPads and tablet computers stand out as two prominent contenders. While both offer similar functionalities, there are subtle yet significant differences between these two devices. This ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Are Computers Made?
    A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. The basic components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices. The Processor The processor, also known as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Add Voice Memos from iPhone to Computer
    Voice Memos is a convenient app on your iPhone that allows you to quickly record and store audio snippets. These recordings can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as taking notes, capturing ideas, or recording interviews. While you can listen to your voice memos on your iPhone, you ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Why My Laptop Screen Has Lines on It: A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Serious populist discontent is bubbling up in New Zealand
    Two-thirds of the country think that “New Zealand’s economy is rigged to advantage the rich and powerful”. They also believe that “New Zealand needs a strong leader to take the country back from the rich and powerful”. These are just two of a handful of stunning new survey results released ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago

  • How to Take a Screenshot on an Asus Laptop A Comprehensive Guide with Detailed Instructions and Illu...
    In today’s digital world, screenshots have become an indispensable tool for communication and documentation. Whether you need to capture an important email, preserve a website page, or share an error message, screenshots allow you to quickly and easily preserve digital information. If you’re an Asus laptop user, there are several ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Factory Reset Gateway Laptop A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • The Folly Of Impermanence.
    “You talking about me?”  The neoliberal denigration of the past was nowhere more unrelenting than in its depiction of the public service. The Post Office and the Railways were held up as being both irremediably inefficient and scandalously over-manned. Playwright Roger Hall’s “Glide Time” caricatures were presented as accurate depictions of ...
    Bowalley Road
    4 days ago

  • A crisis of ambition
    Roger Partridge  writes – When the Coalition Government took office last October, it inherited a country on a precipice. With persistent inflation, decades of insipid productivity growth and crises in healthcare, education, housing and law and order, it is no exaggeration to suggest New Zealand’s first-world status was ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • Have 308 people in the Education Ministry’s Curriculum Development Team spent over $100m on a 60-p...
    Rob MacCulloch writes – In 2022, the Curriculum Centre at the Ministry of Education employed 308 staff, according to an Official Information Request. Earlier this week it was announced 202 of those staff were being cut. When you look up “The New Zealand Curriculum” on the Ministry of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago

  • 'This bill is dangerous for the environment and our democracy'
    Chris Bishop’s bill has stirred up a hornets nest of opposition. Photo: Lynn Grieveson for The KākāTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate from the last day included:A crescendo of opposition to the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill is ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago

  • The Bank of our Tamariki and Mokopuna.
    Monday left me brokenTuesday, I was through with hopingWednesday, my empty arms were openThursday, waiting for love, waiting for loveThe end of another week that left many of us asking WTF? What on earth has NZ gotten itself into and how on earth could people have voluntarily signed up for ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago

  • The worth of it all
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.State of humanity, 20242024, it feels, keeps presenting us with ever more challenges, ever more dismay.Do you give up yet? It seems to ask.No? How about this? Or this?How about this?Full story Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • What is the Hardest Sport in the World?
    Determining the hardest sport in the world is a subjective matter, as the difficulty level can vary depending on individual abilities, physical attributes, and experience. However, based on various factors including physical demands, technical skills, mental fortitude, and overall accomplishment, here is an exploration of some of the most challenging ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • What is the Most Expensive Sport?
    The allure of sport transcends age, culture, and geographical boundaries. It captivates hearts, ignites passions, and provides unparalleled entertainment. Behind the spectacle, however, lies a fascinating world of financial investment and expenditure. Among the vast array of competitive pursuits, one question looms large: which sport carries the hefty title of ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Pickleball On the Cusp of Olympic Glory
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • The Origin and Evolution of Soccer Unveiling the Genius Behind the World’s Most Popular Sport
    Abstract: Soccer, the global phenomenon captivating millions worldwide, has a rich history that spans centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations, but the modern version we know and love emerged through a complex interplay of cultural influences and innovations. This article delves into the fascinating journey of soccer’s evolution, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How Much to Tint Car Windows A Comprehensive Guide
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
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    4 days ago

  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
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    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Can You Jump a Car in the Rain? Safety Precautions and Essential Steps
    Jump-starting a car is a common task that can be performed even in adverse weather conditions like rain. However, safety precautions and proper techniques are crucial to avoid potential hazards. This comprehensive guide will provide detailed instructions on how to safely jump a car in the rain, ensuring both your ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Can taxpayers be confident PIJF cash was spent wisely?
    Graham Adams writes about the $55m media fund — When Patrick Gower was asked by Mike Hosking last week what he would say to the many Newstalk ZB callers who allege the Labour government bribed media with $55 million of taxpayers’ money via the Public Interest Journalism Fund — and ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    4 days ago

  • EGU2024 – An intense week of joining sessions virtually
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    Skeptical Science
    4 days ago

  • Submission on “Fast Track Approvals Bill”
    The following was my submission made on the “Fast Track Approvals Bill”. This potential law will give three Ministers unchecked powers, un-paralled since the days of Robert Muldoon’s “Think Big” projects.The submission is written a bit tongue-in-cheek. But it’s irreverent because the FTAB is in itself not worthy of respect. ...
    Frankly SpeakingBy Frank Macskasy
    4 days ago

  • The Case for a Universal Family Benefit
    One Could Reduce Child Poverty At No Fiscal CostFollowing the Richardson/Shipley 1990 ‘redesign of the welfare state’ – which eliminated the universal Family Benefit and doubled the rate of child poverty – various income supplements for families have been added, the best known being ‘Working for Families’, introduced in 2005. ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    4 days ago

  • A who’s who of New Zealand’s dodgiest companies
    Submissions on National's corrupt Muldoonist fast-track law are due today (have you submitted?), and just hours before they close, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has been forced to release the list of companies he invited to apply. I've spent the last hour going through it in an epic thread of bleats, ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago

  • On Lee’s watch, Economic Development seems to be stuck on scoring points from promoting sporting e...
    Buzz from the Beehive A few days ago, Point of Order suggested the media must be musing “on why Melissa is mute”. Our article reported that people working in the beleaguered media industry have cause to yearn for a minister as busy as Melissa Lee’s ministerial colleagues and we drew ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago

  • New Zealand has never been closed for business
    1. What was The Curse of Jim Bolger?a. Winston Peters b. Soon after shaking his hand, world leaders would mysteriously lose office or shuffle off this mortal coilc. Could never shake off the Mother of All Budgetsd. Dandruff2. True or false? The Chairman of a Kiwi export business has asked the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago

  • Stop the panic – we’ve been here before
    Jack Vowles writes – New Zealand is said to be suffering from ‘serious populist discontent’. An IPSOS MORI survey has reported that we have an increasing preference for strong leaders, think that the economy is rigged toward the rich and powerful, and political elites are ignoring ‘hard-working people’.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days 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
    8 hours 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
    14 hours 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
    15 hours 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
    16 hours 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
    1 day ago

  • Patterson reopens world’s largest wool scouring facility
    Associate Agriculture Minister, Mark Patterson, formally reopened the world’s largest wool processing facility today in Awatoto, Napier, following a $50 million rebuild and refurbishment project. “The reopening of this facility will significantly lift the economic opportunities available to New Zealand’s wool sector, which already accounts for 20 per cent of ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Speech to the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective Summit, 18 April 2024
    Hon Andrew Bayly, Minister for Small Business and Manufacturing  At the Southland Otago Regional Engineering Collective (SOREC) Summit, 18 April, Dunedin    Ngā mihi nui, Ko Andrew Bayly aho, Ko Whanganui aho    Good Afternoon and thank you for inviting me to open your summit today.    I am delighted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Government to introduce revised Three Strikes law
    The Government is delivering on its commitment to bring back the Three Strikes legislation, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced today. “Our Government is committed to restoring law and order and enforcing appropriate consequences on criminals. We are making it clear that repeat serious violent or sexual offending is not ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • New diplomatic appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has today announced four new diplomatic appointments for New Zealand’s overseas missions.   “Our diplomats have a vital role in maintaining and protecting New Zealand’s interests around the world,” Mr Peters says.    “I am pleased to announce the appointment of these senior diplomats from the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
    New Zealand is contributing NZ$7 million to support communities affected by severe food insecurity and other urgent humanitarian needs in Ethiopia and Somalia, Foreign Minister Rt Hon Winston Peters announced today.   “Over 21 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance across Ethiopia, with a further 6.9 million people ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago

  • Arts Minister congratulates Mataaho Collective
    Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Paul Goldsmith is congratulating Mataaho Collective for winning the Golden Lion for best participant in the main exhibition at the Venice Biennale. "Congratulations to the Mataaho Collective for winning one of the world's most prestigious art prizes at the Venice Biennale.  “It is good ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago

  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
    The Government is reforming financial services to improve access to home loans and other lending, and strengthen customer protections, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly and Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced today. “Our coalition Government is committed to rebuilding the economy and making life simpler by cutting red tape. We are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
    “China remains a strong commercial opportunity for Kiwi exporters as Chinese businesses and consumers continue to value our high-quality safe produce,” Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.   Mr McClay has returned to New Zealand following visits to Beijing, Harbin and Shanghai where he met ministers, governors and mayors and engaged in trade and agricultural events with the New ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago

  • PM’s South East Asia mission does the business
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has completed a successful trip to Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, deepening relationships and capitalising on opportunities. Mr Luxon was accompanied by a business delegation and says the choice of countries represents the priority the New Zealand Government places on South East Asia, and our relationships in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago

  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago

  • Government focused on getting people into work
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