Thanks Jacinda – Zero cases of Covid19 in Aotearoa!

Written By: - Date published: 1:15 pm, June 8th, 2020 - 93 comments
Categories: health, jacinda ardern, labour, uncategorized - Tags: ,

Thanks to clear and decisive leadership, an intelligent government, the decision to go hard and fast, respect for science, and overwhelming commitment by local kiwis we can celebrate a milestone, Aotearoa has no current cases of Covid 19.

Now we are at a maintenance stage.  It seems very likely that a decision to take us to level one will be taken this afternoon with the change to be implemented probably this week.

And the virus is a bastard.  Continued vigilance is essential and my view is the borders need to be kept shut until we can be sure our status is not threatened.

But for now Aotearoa we can all celebrate.  And reflect that Jacinda and Micky Savage (the real one) will in the future be talked about with the same affection and appreciation.

93 comments on “Thanks Jacinda – Zero cases of Covid19 in Aotearoa! ”

  1. McFlock 2

    yuss

  2. solkta 3

    That's a real feel good feeling. Thanks to everybody who tried hard to make this happen.

  3. Yes!!!!!! And who wants to be like Australia now.

  4. Ad 5

    I would like to see a plan for airport proof-of-entry biometric testing without 2-week quarantine before I do too many woo-hoos over this one.

    There's so many global secondary breakouts now it's hard to trust anything.

    • Andre 5.1

      Until there is a convincingly demonstrated detection method with a false negative rate less than 0.01% for infections acquired as recently as when the aircraft was boarded, then as far as I'm concerned, 2 weeks quarantine is the only acceptable answer.

      In other words, 2 weeks quarantine is the only answer.

      • Naki man 5.1.1

        "In other words, 2 weeks quarantine is the only answer."

        Agree, i hope air NZ have lifted their game after one of their flight crew caused the biggest cluster including two deaths. A couple of weeks ago they were still exempt from quarantine.

        • Tricledrown 5.1.1.1

          Naki man facts right this happened before lockdown.

          • Naki man 5.1.1.1.1

            The point i was making is that unlike Australian flight crew they didn't quarantine during the lockdown even after causing the death of two people.

            • Tricledrown 5.1.1.1.1.1

              It was voluntary but the person was showing serious symptoms, from inside info on the wedding he was coughing and spluttering you think with all the info on symptoms around that this person should have self isolated. Taken personel responsibility.

              It's easy in hindsight but lessons need to be learned and an enquiry into the pandemic is needed not a Royal enquiry it will take to long.

              An urgent enquiry is needed to check what systems are in place how much PPE is available ie face masks where high concentrations of people gather ,planes and public transport etc.If a new wave or another pandemic arrived are we ready.

              An urgent stock take is needed aged care facilities where most deaths are occurring need a lift in funding to provide enough PPE and hygiene management . Care facilities were woefully short on both it was lucky we didn't have a large scale outbreak.

  5. gsays 6

    Good news indeed.

    Any yahoo who is rushing to get back to BAU yesterday, before they cast their reckons, needs to acknowledge the decision making that has given us options.

  6. Macro 7

    Well done JA, the rest of the Cabinet, AB and the MoH, the advisors, our essential workers, and the rest of the team of 5 million for staying the course so far.

    There are some things that have changed for the better over the past few months. Long term homeless people have been placed into some form of permanent accommodation, now that they have a permanent address they have been able to apply for a benefit and accommodation supplement.

    Meanwhile, overseas Palestinians are making face masks for Israelis.

    https://www.voanews.com/middle-east/gaza-factory-exports-face-masks-israel-during-covid-19

    • Sacha 7.1

      now that they have a permanent address they have been able to apply for a benefit and accommodation supplement.

      City Missions and others have long provided an address for people without one. Not the barrier.

      • Descendant Of Smith 7.1.1

        You've never needed an address to get a benefit. Used to have arguments about this back in the 80's with the local DSW office. Homeless people have always been able to get a benefit.

        • Macro 7.1.1.1

          You've never needed an address to get a benefit. Used to have arguments about this back in the 80's with the local DSW office. Homeless people have always been able to get a benefit.

          Well tell that to the folks I have been working with over the past few months. One of their major problems has just been getting access to WINZ without access to a computer.

      • Macro 7.1.2

        That has not been the case here.

        • Descendant Of Smith 7.1.2.1

          In the UK you do have to have an address. This was added in recent years I believe.

          In NZ there is nothing in legislation that says you do. I often let people begging know this and encourage them to get help from an advocate.

          Homeless urban myths
          Separating fact from fiction

          https://www.thepeoplesproject.org.nz/homelessness/

          Don’t people need an address to get a benefit?

          Every person correctly registered with Work and Income can receive a benefit. The People’s Project makes sure everyone is receiving their entitlement. That said, many are living on less than $100 a week. Many have overwhelming debts and fines.

          • Descendant Of Smith 7.1.2.1.1

            Just checked nothing has changed – none of the benefits require an address.

            Jobseeker support: requirements

            A person is entitled to jobseeker support if the person—

            (a) has a work gap; and

            (b) is available for work; and

            (c) meets the age requirement; and

            (d) meets the residential requirement; and

            (e) has no or minimum income.

            Sole parent support: requirements

            A person is entitled to sole parent support if the person—

            (a) meets the sole parent requirement; and

            (b) either—

            (i) is not in a situation of split care (see section 32); or

            (ii) is in a situation of split care and is the 1 parent who is entitled to sole parent support (see section 32); and

            (c) meets the residential requirement; and

            (d) is aged 20 years or over.

            Supported living payment: on ground of restricted work capacity or total blindness: requirements

            A person is entitled to the supported living payment if the person—

            (a) has restricted work capacity or is totally blind; and

            (b) meets the residential requirement; and

            (c) is aged 16 years or over.

            Outline of beneficiary’s general and specific obligations

            (1) The general obligations of a beneficiary, that is, obligations that apply to all beneficiaries, are the following:

            (a) the obligation to hold, and give MSD details of, a bank account (see section 111):

            (b) the obligation to supply a tax file number (see section 112):

            (c) the obligation to notify a change of circumstances (see section 113).

            (2) The specific obligations that apply to some beneficiaries only, are the following:

            (a) the obligation to notify absence from New Zealand (see section 114):

            (b) the obligation to undergo work ability assessments (see sections 115 to 119):

            (c) work-preparation obligations (see sections 120 to 126):

            (d) obligations in relation to dependent children (see sections 127 to 137):

            (e) work-test obligations (see sections 138 to 156):

            (f) youth payment obligations (see sections 162 and 163):

            (g) young parent obligations (see sections 164 and 169):

            (h) obligations under section 165(7) of a young person aged 18 or 19 years who is receiving jobseeker support, who is at significant risk of long-term welfare dependency (see sections 165 and 169), and who is required under section 165(2) to receive youth services:

            (i) obligations (including relating to instruction, education, training, or learning) of a young person who is the spouse or partner of a beneficiary (see sections 166, 167, and 169):

            (j) obligations (including relating to youth services) of a young person who is the spouse or partner of a beneficiary (see sections 168 and 169):

            (k) the obligation to work with contracted service providers (see sections 170 and 171):

            (l) obligations in relation to overseas pensions (see sections 172 to 180).

            110 When obligations apply

            An obligation applies from the time that the benefit in question is paid, except in the case of—

            (a) the applicant’s or beneficiary’s obligation to hold, and give MSD details of, a bank account (see section 111); and

            (b) the section 162(1)(a) education or training obligation of a young parent who is the principal caregiver of that young parent’s youngest dependent child who is under 12 months old (see section 163(2)).

            And you don't need a bank account at the start if you do not have one.

            Beneficiary must hold, and give MSD details of, bank account

            (1) It is a condition of every benefit, unless MSD in a particular case determines otherwise, that the applicant or beneficiary must, by the deadline (specified by regulations made under section 438(2)(a)(ii)) for receipt by MSD of any supporting evidence reasonably required by MSD,—

            (a) give MSD details of an existing suitable bank account held by the applicant or beneficiary; or

            (b) open a bank account, if the applicant or beneficiary does not hold one, and give MSD details of it.

            • gsays 7.1.2.1.1.1

              Perhaps the crux of getting the $ is in the last two bits you've cited.

              (a) give MSD details of an existing suitable bank account held by the applicant or beneficiary; or

              (b) open a bank account, if the applicant or beneficiary does not hold one, and give MSD details of it.

              Them banksters are gonna wanna know where you live.

  7. peterh 8

    And now its up to Grant Robertson, and already his stuff is working, Just listened to head of kiwifruit, when they got all clear Got 28000 staff in a week packing 2 million trays a day, record crop record ,price, and sales going through the roof, rest of country just has to follow

  8. observer 9

    One of the greatest peacetime victories that NZ has achieved, in the modern era at least.

    Politics (or government) is always about the next challenge, not the last – but for once that little dance is more than justified. Let's Bowie!

  9. Ad 10

    I'm also looking forward to our Minister of Trade, and Agriculture, and Economic Development, and all key leads witin MBIE, NZTE, MFAT, ExportNZ, Fonterra and of course our entire horticulture and wine and beverage industries to use this moment to shout this little comparative advantage to the world.

    Every bit of economic advantage we can now find will help this country.

  10. mary_a 11

    Well done Kiwisyes Great leadership from JA, combined with excellent direction from Dr Bloomfield during a very challenging time.smiley

    • Anne 11.1

      So lucky to have real leadership and brilliant scientists. We've had the latter for years but they were rarely acknowledged.

  11. mac1 12

    "Thanks to clear and decisive leadership, an intelligent government, the decision to go hard and fast, respect for science, and overwhelming commitment to local kiwis we can celebrate a milestone, Aotearoa has no current cases of Covid 19".

    Well said, MickySavage.

    Empathy, leadership, regard for science and sound advice.

    Little NZ leads the world. A government that cares, a citizenry that responds, a result that should be seen as an example to the world.

  12. Muttonbird 13

    Incredible effort.

    A few weeks ago, anti-Labour operatives were grizzling hard about the definition on eliminated. They tried to frame the PM as being dishonest. Of all the hair-brained strategies the RW have come up with in the last 3 months, that one is right up there.

    Today Jacinda Ardern cast aside the need for the word eliminated and instead we can use the word eradicated. The opposition can't argue the definition of that, although the Hologram tried his best to be negative on one on NZ's greatest days.

    The Hologram seems to be trying to hoover up the hard right National votes leaving after the leadership change.

    • observer 13.1

      I get annoyed with NZ First most days of the week but when we talk about Jacinda's leadership we should not forget that in the alternative universe, by 2020 (after PM Bill would have retired) the Covid-19 response would have been led by PM Simon Bridges and David Seymour would have been a Minister in that government.

      Winston may be an old rogue but still … his decision in 2017 saved hundreds of Kiwi lives.

      • Muttonbird 13.1.1

        +1. David Seymour is the Jair Bolsonaro of New Zealand, student version.

        • Incognito 13.1.1.1

          Bolsonaro’s trade mark is a red beret, Seymour’s is a red dwarf.

          • Tricledrown 13.1.1.1.1

            Hollow man or hologram Nationals uninspiring leadership gives Seymour a lift in the polls which means National policy moving further to the right.

            • mpledger 13.1.1.1.1.1

              I thought Goldsmith wasn't high enough on the list that if he failed to win Epsom then he would be out of parliament (on current polling). I think he might have to contest the seat this time. ;->

              • Sacha

                Finance portfolio guarantees a high list placing. And he always has that vanity publishing career to fall back on.

  13. Kat 14

    Since Michael Joseph Savage how may NZ Prime ministers have been referred to with the term "love"……..we love you Jacinda. Thank you for being one of us, and to the core.

    • SDCLFC 14.1

      Norm Kirk?

      Maybe not loved, but he's the politician I hear her most compared to in terms of empathy for all people.

      But, your point stands

  14. Ken 15

    Three Damehoods for that lady!

  15. David Mac 16

    Usually at this time of the year we can't fill an Airbnb or Copthorne bed for love or money up in the Far North. Just now, bookings are going off. Like housing, there are so many indirect influences. When a visitor has their head on a pillow, 100's get closer to paying their rent.

    Onya NZ, the Thai restaurant has all burners burning and Gav at the laundry, his mandatory holiday is well and truly over.

  16. Fireblade 17

    Happy Happy Joy Joy.

    by Stinky Wizzleteats, The Ren & Stimpy Show.

  17. David Mac 18

    Fortunately perception is everything. The world buys our 100% Pure message. Our Covid status is a handy contribution.

    Price our God's Disneyland accordingly. Yeah Paris is expensive, we should be too.

    Get rid of the loose bowel teens in unregistered 80's Hi-Aces. They'll have to save a bit harder. 'We offer you this flush toilet with our blessing.'

    Offer a 50% discount to the holder of a NZ driver's license or passport.

    We have all it takes to create one of the most coveted destinations in the world. We should start behaving like we have.

    It's a market sector that actually does have a trickle down effect. The guy that's paying a thousand for his room tips pretty good.

    • mac1 18.1

      "It's a market sector that actually does have a trickle down effect. The guy that's paying a thousand for his room tips pretty good."

      I prefer a system where the guest pays a fair price to the owner who then pays his workers a decent wage. That is, as I have understood it for seventy years, the New Zealand way. (The living wage is still to be the standard,)

      Mrs Mac1 and I celebrated recently with a meal out at a local restaurant. For the first time in my life in NZ I was asked for a tip. Business was booming for them after lockdown; full house midweek. I've been going there for years.

      Is this a reaction to Covid-19 or a further Americanisation of our commerce?

    • Naki man 18.2

      You are promoting trickle down effect, Airbnb, and getting rid of the loose bowel teens in unregistered 80's Hi-Aces. I am surprised your not being abused.

      Keep up the good work.

      • Tricledrown 18.2.1

        Research on how much freedom campers spend in NZ .They spend more than most.surprisingly because they are here longer and want to spend money on adventure Tourism ie skydiving whale watching bunny jumping skiing etc

        • Sacha 18.2.1.1

          They spend differently as well. Do wish some of them would stop shitting everywhere they please.

  18. David Mac 19

    Outlaw Maui drivers with a foreign license.

    Charge them 3k more and insist they enlist a driver/legend sharer/stays in a motel guide….they'll warm to it and have the holiday memory they will take to their grave. Train these guides, create a career path for them. We could get language savvy. Align a Vietnamese speaking guide with Vietnamese visitors.

    Nothing sells like word of mouth. Start creating some truly memorable experiences down here and we won't need to spend much on advertising.

  19. Craig H 20

    Congratulations everyone! The team of 5 million has got the job done, very ably led by the PM and DG of Health, with strong support from the Deputy PM, Finance Minister, Education Minister and Director of Public Health, to name a few.

  20. David Mac 21

    So if Jacinda told you to jump off the bridge would you?

    Ummm, we'd need to hear more. Is Ashley available?

  21. David Mac 22

    Ashley would say "This is the first time I find myself disagreeing with Prime Minister. I'd like to call a timeout for this press meeting, lets regroup in 30 minutes. I'll need a private room, whiteboard, pens in 3 colours and an overhead projection of the bridge in question."

  22. Fireblade 23

    In awe of NZ: How world media reacted to New Zealand eliminating Covid-19.

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12338194

  23. Mark 24

    This is great news.

    However at what cost has this been achieved – in terms of the economy and even lives and suffering. And a stuffed up economy will cost lives.

    Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan have also done extremely well – but without a full lock down.

    In any case we should all be grateful. Things could have been so much worse.

    • mpledger 24.1

      Noone's talking about South Korea anymore and they were once the golden child. They went hard early and were doing way better then us then they opened up and had a super spreader and now they are back to where they were two months ago (for daily new cases anyway, daily deaths look is looking a lot better).

  24. Maurice 25

    Now to really start taxing the rich pricks!

    Particularly those in Public Service who continued to be paid during the entire lockdown?

    • Tricledrown 25.1

      Maurice they always find away to avoid paying tax so its futile to target them you are playing right into their song book.

      Just getting them to pay the existing taxes is a mission as the rich only pay an average of 17% as opposed to the 33% top tax rate.

      The way to make them pay is to keep right wing govts out of power ie National sacking 1500 IRD workers because of technology why not redeploy those staff to investigate how these very wealthy avoid tax .For those who pay their full taxes would benefit while those who roll up to private schools (govt subsidized )n the Range Rovers while having no taxable income .

      A Capital gains tax or land tax would be a good way to start paying down the $140 billion debt from the Covid financial bailout of the economy.

      • Tricledrown 25.1.1

        Another Idea would be to have a flexible top tax rate lowering it depending on the capital gains paid each year as some years no capital gain will be paid.

        To undo the rights dogma of saying the left only know how to tax and spend.

        The Carrot and stick approach would be that those who are paying no taxes on capital gain would be played against those who can't avoid paying their fair share.

        • Maurice 25.1.1.1

          Indeed! As long as capital and land valuations are set at the bottom of the Covid dip there should be many years of capital and land value gains to be taxed.

          If no value gains then income tax at top rates for that year and off-set against that paid in increasing value years. To keep the rate of tax collection the same or very similar for each year …. and as high as possible? Is that the idea?

    • Sacha 25.2

      No public servants on the rich list I'm afraid, Maurice.

      • Maurice 25.2.1

        Average salary varies widely amongst different occupations in the Public Service. In June 2018, the average salary was highest for Managers ($136,300), followed by Policy Analysts ($99,400), ICT Professionals and Technicians ($93,400), Legal, HR and Finance Professionals ($90,600) and Information Professionals ($84,600). By contrast, Social, Health and Education Workers ($65,200), Inspectors and Regulatory Officers ($62,900), Clerical and Administrative Workers ($60,000) and Contact Centre Workers ($52,900) had the lowest average salaries.

        Compare that to beneficiaries and the newly unemployed …

        • Sacha 25.2.1.1

          We clearly have a different standard for 'rich pricks'. Good to know.

          • Maurice 25.2.1.1.1

            It all depends where in the pay heap one is … and whether the income continues.

  25. xanthe 26

    yeah well Jacinda seems ok at dealing with a crisis…… BUT to really launch us into a crisis we need National /sark

    • Maurice 26.1

      It doe snot matter who is there – two generations of wealth has been squandered and we are ALL in the pooh

  26. Sabine 27

    so this will now be revoked? right? right?

    https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/121504938/coronavirus-new-covid19-law-gives-police-power-to-conduct-warrantless-searches-amid-civil-liberty-concerns

    A controversial new coronavirus law has been hastily passed, despite coming under fire for allowing police to search homes without a warrant.

    Despite widespread concern, the Government rushed through the powerful legislation for Alert Level 2, but legal experts say the new enforcement law is better for the public than the extreme emergency powers used under lockdown.

    There are now calls for the Government to take the unusual step of returning the law to parliament, so it can again be scrutinised while it's being used.

    The law, which passed 63 – 57, had to be hurried through the House as it was required for the enforcement of Alert Level 2 restrictions such as social distancing – set to begin at 11.59pm on Wednesday.

    surely an announcement is forthcoming to let us plebs know that we are now again save in our houses from warrantless house searches by the police?

    • Fireblade 27.1

      The law allowing police to enter homes without a warrant no longer applies. The PM stated that at the media conference yesterday. (32:30 in the video).

      • Chris T 27.1.1

        Not entirely sure she is correct on that technically.

        Unless I am an idiot and miss-reading, which admittedly would not be a first!

        http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2020/0246/latest/d12844704e2.html?search=sw_096be8ed8198703a_alert+level_200_se&p=1&sr=0

        In addition to this, the Bill—

        (a)

        will apply to all Alert Levels under the COVID-19 Alert Level Framework; and

        (b)

        addresses the need for some enforcement powers for certain restrictions that may be applied so that these restrictions do not rely on powers provided by a state of national emergency—at Alert Level 2 this may include gatherings and distancing; and

        (c)

        establishes decision-making processes that are more modern and consistent with recommended practice by legal academics and others; and

        (d)

        has limited retrospective effect to enable the Alert Level 2 order to be prepared and commence immediately, if needed; and

        (e)

        does not provide retrospective validation of actions already taken on previous orders.

        • Naki man 27.1.1.1

          Jacinda did not say the law no longer applies she said they won't use it anymore.

          She also said in another interview that they were able to bring in level one at short notice because they did not have to change any law to inforce level one.

          So it looks like you are correct Chris T

    • gsays 27.2

      Good question Sabine.

      It seems like it is still a law.

      We may yet be moving or leaving the ‘Level’ scheme.

      • Chris T 27.2.1

        Can’t see that happening for at least a year or two tbh.

        But purely from memory I think the no warrant bit was only valid for 3 months.

      • Louis 27.2.2

        The law already existed. See 27.1.1.1.1.1

    • Louis 27.3

      It was already the law.

      • Chris T 27.3.1

        So it was already there yet they rushed it through. Presumably as they didn’t know this. And now the PM says it is not there even though it was already there and still is?

        • Louis 27.3.1.1

          Thats a load of rubbish Chris T.

          • Chris T 27.3.1.1.1

            Was the law already there or not?

            “Louis27.1.1.1.1.1
            9 June 2020 at 7:11 pm
            The law already existed prior to the Covid19 response.”

            • Louis 27.3.1.1.1.1

              You know it is but it doesnt apply to L1 and your assumption that they didnt know about it is false.

  27. Treetop 28

    Having stamina was well worth it. The citizens and residents of NZ are the winners.

    Vigilance is required to keep the virus out.

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    Newsroom has a story today about National's (fortunately failed) effort to disestablish the newly-created Inspector-General of Defence. The creation of this agency was the key recommendation of the Inquiry into Operation Burnham, and a vital means of restoring credibility and social licence to an agency which had been caught lying ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago
  • Winding Back The Hands Of History’s Clock.
    Holding On To The Present: The moment a political movement arises that attacks the whole idea of social progress, and announces its intention to wind back the hands of History’s clock, then democracy, along with its unwritten rules, is in mortal danger.IT’S A COMMONPLACE of political speeches, especially those delivered in ...
    2 days ago
  • Sweet Moderation? What Christopher Luxon Could Learn From The Germans.
    Stuck In The Middle With You: As Christopher Luxon feels the hot breath of Act’s and NZ First’s extremists on the back of his neck and, as he reckons with the damage their policies are already inflicting upon a country he’s described as “fragile”, is there not some merit in reaching out ...
    2 days ago
  • A clear warning
    The unpopular coalition government is currently rushing to repeal section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act. The clause is Oranga Tamariki's Treaty clause, and was inserted after its systematic stealing of Māori children became a public scandal and resulted in physical resistance to further abductions. The clause created clear obligations ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago
  • Poll results and Waitangi Tribunal report go unmentioned on the Beehive website – where racing tru...
    Buzz  from the Beehive The government’s official website – which Point of Order monitors daily – not for the first time has nothing much to say today about political happenings that are grabbing media headlines. It makes no mention of the latest 1News-Verian poll, for example.  This shows National down ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago
  • Listening To The Traffic.
    It Takes A Train To Cry: Surely, there is nothing lonelier in all this world than the long wail of a distant steam locomotive on a cold Winter’s night.AS A CHILD, I would lie awake in my grandfather’s house and listen to the traffic. The big wooden house was only a ...
    2 days ago
  • Comity Be Damned! The State’s Legislative Arm Is Flexing Its Constitutional Muscles.
    Packing A Punch: The election of the present government, including in its ranks politicians dedicated to reasserting the rights of the legislature in shaping and determining the future of Māori and Pakeha in New Zealand, should have alerted the judiciary – including its anomalous appendage, the Waitangi Tribunal – that its ...
    2 days ago
  • Ending The Quest.
    Dead Woman Walking: New Zealand’s media industry had been moving steadily towards disaster for all the years Melissa Lee had been National’s media and communications policy spokesperson, and yet, when the crisis finally broke, on her watch, she had nothing intelligent to offer. Christopher Luxon is a patient man - but he’s not ...
    2 days ago
  • Will political polarisation intensify to the point where ‘normal’ government becomes impossible,...
    Chris Trotter writes –  New Zealand politics is remarkably easy-going: dangerously so, one might even say. With the notable exception of John Key’s flat ruling-out of the NZ First Party in 2008, all parties capable of clearing MMP’s five-percent threshold, or winning one or more electorate seats, tend ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Tuesday, April 30
    TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 10:30am on Tuesday, May 30:Scoop: NZ 'close to the tipping point' of measles epidemic, health experts warn NZ Herald Benjamin PlummerHealth: 'Absurd and totally unacceptable': Man has to wait a year for ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Why Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating in the country
    Bryce Edwards writes – Polling shows that Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any mayor in the country. Siting at -12 per cent, the proportion of constituents who disapprove of her performance outweighs those who give her the thumbs up. This negative rating is ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Worst poll result for a new Government in MMP history
    Luxon will no doubt put a brave face on it, but there is no escaping the pressure this latest poll will put on him and the government. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Pinning down climate change's role in extreme weather
    This is a re-post from The Climate Brink by Andrew Dessler In the wake of any unusual weather event, someone inevitably asks, “Did climate change cause this?” In the most literal sense, that answer is almost always no. Climate change is never the sole cause of hurricanes, heat waves, droughts, or ...
    2 days ago
  • Serving at Seymour's pleasure.
    Something odd happened yesterday, and I’d love to know if there’s more to it. If there was something which preempted what happened, or if it was simply a throwaway line in response to a journalist.Yesterday David Seymour was asked at a press conference what the process would be if the ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago
  • Webworm LA Pop-Up
    Hi,From time to time, I want to bring Webworm into the real world. We did it last year with the Jurassic Park event in New Zealand — which was a lot of fun!And so on Saturday May 11th, in Los Angeles, I am hosting a lil’ Webworm pop-up! I’ve been ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago
  • “Feel good” school is out
    Education Minister Erica Standford yesterday unveiled a fundamental reform of the way our school pupils are taught. She would not exactly say so, but she is all but dismantling the so-called “inquiry” “feel good” method of teaching, which has ruled in our classrooms since a major review of the New ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    2 days ago
  • 6 Months in, surely our Report Card is “Ignored all warnings: recommend dismissal ASAP”?
    Exactly where are we seriously going with this government and its policies? That is, apart from following what may as well be a Truss-Lite approach on the purported economic plan, and Victorian-era regression when it comes to social policy. Oh it’ll work this time of course, we’re basically assured, “the ...
    exhALANtBy exhalantblog
    2 days ago
  • Bread, and how it gets buttered
    Hey Uncle Dave, When the Poms joined the EEC, I wasn't one of those defeatists who said, Well, that’s it for the dairy job. And I was right, eh? The Chinese can’t get enough of our milk powder and eventually, the Poms came to their senses and backed up the ute ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Why Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating in the country
    Polling shows that Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has the lowest approval rating of any mayor in the country. Siting at -12 per cent, the proportion of constituents who disapprove of her performance outweighs those who give her the thumbs up. This negative rating is higher than for any other mayor ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    3 days ago
  • Justice for Gaza?
    The New York Times reports that the International Criminal Court is about to issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, over their genocide in Gaza: Israeli officials increasingly believe that the International Criminal Court is preparing to issue arrest warrants for senior government officials on ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago
  • If there has been any fiddling with Pharmac’s funding, we can count on Paula to figure out the fis...
    Buzz from the Beehive Pharmac has been given a financial transfusion and a new chair to oversee its spending in the pharmaceutical business. Associate Health Minister David Seymour described the funding for Pharmac as “its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff”. ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago
  • FastTrackWatch – The case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Bryce Edwards writes – Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Bernard’s pick 'n' mix for Monday, April 29
    TL;DR: Here’s my top 10 ‘pick ‘n’ mix of links to news, analysis and opinion articles as of 10:10am on Monday, April 29:Scoop: The children's ward at Rotorua Hospital will be missing a third of its beds as winter hits because Te Whatu Ora halted an upgrade partway through to ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell on Iran killing its rappers, and searching for the invisible Dr. Reti
    span class=”dropcap”>As hideous as David Seymour can be, it is worth keeping in mind occasionally that there are even worse political figures (and regimes) out there. Iran for instance, is about to execute the country’s leading hip hop musician Toomaj Salehi, for writing and performing raps that “corrupt” the nation’s ...
    3 days ago
  • Auckland Rail Electrification 10 years old
    Yesterday marked 10 years since the first electric train carried passengers in Auckland so it’s a good time to look back at it and the impact it has had. A brief history The first proposals for rail electrification in Auckland came in the 1920’s alongside the plans for earlier ...
    3 days ago
  • Coalition's dirge of austerity and uncertainty is driving the economy into a deeper recession
    Right now, in Aotearoa-NZ, our ‘animal spirits’ are darkening towards a winter of discontent, thanks at least partly to a chorus of negative comments and actions from the Government Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Disability Funding or Tax Cuts.
    You make people evil to punish the paststuck inside a sequel with a rotating castThe following photos haven’t been generated with AI, or modified in any way. They are flesh and blood, human beings. On the left is Galatea Young, a young mum, and her daughter Fiadh who has Angelman ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • Of the Goodness of Tolkien’s Eru
    April has been a quiet month at A Phuulish Fellow. I have had an exceptionally good reading month, and a decently productive writing month – for original fiction, anyway – but not much has caught my eye that suggested a blog article. It has been vaguely frustrating, to be honest. ...
    3 days ago
  • 2024 SkS Weekly Climate Change & Global Warming News Roundup #17
    A listing of 31 news and opinion articles we found interesting and shared on social media during the past week: Sun, April 21, 2024 thru Sat, April 27, 2024. Story of the week Anthropogenic climate change may be the ultimate shaggy dog story— but with a twist, because here ...
    3 days ago
  • Pastor Who Abused People, Blames People
    Hi,I spent about a year on Webworm reporting on an abusive megachurch called Arise, and it made me want to stab my eyes out with a fork.I don’t regret that reporting in 2022 and 2023 — I am proud of it — but it made me angry.Over three main stories ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    4 days ago
  • Vic Uni shows how under threat free speech is
    The new Victoria University Vice-Chancellor decided to have a forum at the university about free speech and academic freedom as it is obviously a topical issue, and the Government is looking at legislating some carrots or sticks for universities to uphold their obligations under the Education and Training Act. They ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Winston remembers Gettysburg.
    Do you remember when Melania Trump got caught out using a speech that sounded awfully like one Michelle Obama had given? Uncannily so.Well it turns out that Abraham Lincoln is to Winston Peters as Michelle was to Melania. With the ANZAC speech Uncle Winston gave at Gallipoli having much in ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago
  • 25
    She was born 25 years ago today in North Shore hospital. Her eyes were closed tightly shut, her mouth was silently moving. The whole theatre was all quiet intensity as they marked her a 2 on the APGAR test. A one-minute eternity later, she was an 8.  The universe was ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • Fact Brief – Is Antarctica gaining land ice?
    Skeptical Science is partnering with Gigafact to produce fact briefs — bite-sized fact checks of trending claims. This fact brief was written by Sue Bin Park in collaboration with members from our Skeptical Science team. You can submit claims you think need checking via the tipline. Is Antarctica gaining land ice? ...
    4 days ago
  • Policing protests.
    Images of US students (and others) protesting and setting up tent cities on US university campuses have been broadcast world wide and clearly demonstrate the growing rifts in US society caused by US policy toward Israel and Israel’s prosecution of … Continue reading ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    5 days ago
  • Open letter to Hon Paul Goldsmith
    Barrie Saunders writes – Dear Paul As the new Minister of Media and Communications, you will be inundated with heaps of free advice and special pleading, all in the national interest of course. For what it’s worth here is my assessment: Traditional broadcasting free to air content through ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: FastTrackWatch – The Case for the Government’s Fast Track Bill
    Many criticisms are being made of the Government’s Fast Track Approvals Bill, including by this writer. But as with everything in politics, every story has two sides, and both deserve attention. It’s important to understand what the Government is trying to achieve and its arguments for such a bold reform. ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    5 days ago
  • Luxon gets out his butcher’s knife – briefly
    Peter Dunne writes –  The great nineteenth British Prime Minister, William Gladstone, once observed that “the first essential for a Prime Minister is to be a good butcher.” When a later British Prime Minister, Harold Macmillan, sacked a third of his Cabinet in July 1962, in what became ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • More tax for less
    Ele Ludemann writes – New Zealanders had the OECD’s second highest tax increase last year: New Zealanders faced the second-biggest tax raises in the developed world last year, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) says. The intergovernmental agency said the average change in personal income tax ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    5 days ago
  • Real News vs Fake News.
    We all know something’s not right with our elections. The spread of misinformation, people being targeted with soundbites and emotional triggers that ignore the facts, even the truth, and influence their votes.The use of technology to produce deep fakes. How can you tell if something is real or not? Can ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    5 days ago
  • Another way to roll
    Hello! Here comes the Saturday edition of More Than A Feilding, catching you up on the past week’s editions.Share ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    5 days ago
  • Simon Clark: The climate lies you'll hear this year
    This video includes conclusions of the creator climate scientist Dr. Simon Clark. It is presented to our readers as an informed perspective. Please see video description for references (if any). This year you will be lied to! Simon Clark helps prebunk some misleading statements you'll hear about climate. The video includes ...
    5 days ago
  • Cutting the Public Service
    It is all very well cutting the backrooms of public agencies but it may compromise the frontlines. One of the frustrations of the Productivity Commission’s 2017 review of universities is that while it observed that their non-academic staff were increasing faster than their academic staff, it did not bother to ...
    PunditBy Brian Easton
    5 days ago
  • Luxon’s demoted ministers might take comfort from the British politician who bounced back after th...
    Buzz from the Beehive Two speeches delivered by Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters at Anzac Day ceremonies in Turkey are the only new posts on the government’s official website since the PM announced his Cabinet shake-up. In one of the speeches, Peters stated the obvious:  we live in a troubled ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago
  • This is how I roll over
    1. Which of these would you not expect to read in The Waikato Invader?a. Luxon is here to do business, don’t you worry about thatb. Mr KPI expects results, and you better believe itc. This decisive man of action is getting me all hot and excitedd. Melissa Lee is how ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    6 days ago
  • The Waitangi Tribunal is not “a roving Commission”…
    …it has a restricted jurisdiction which must not be abused: it is not an inquisition   NOTE – this article was published before the High Court ruled that Karen Chhour does not have to appear before the Waitangi Tribunal Gary Judd writes –  The High Court ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • Is Oranga Tamariki guilty of neglect?
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – One of reasons Oranga Tamariki exists is to prevent child neglect. But could the organisation itself be guilty of the same? Oranga Tamariki’s statistics show a decrease in the number and age of children in care. “There are less children ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    6 days ago
  • Three Strikes saw lower reoffending
    David Farrar writes: Graeme Edgeler wrote in 2017: In the first five years after three strikes came into effect 5248 offenders received a ‘first strike’ (that is, a “stage-1 conviction” under the three strikes sentencing regime), and 68 offenders received a ‘second strike’. In the five years prior to ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • Luxon’s ruthless show of strength is perfect for our angry era
    Bryce Edwards writes – Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has surprised everyone with his ruthlessness in sacking two of his ministers from their crucial portfolios. Removing ministers for poor performance after only five months in the job just doesn’t normally happen in politics. That’s refreshing and will be extremely ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    6 days ago
  • 'Lacks attention to detail and is creating double-standards.'
    TL;DR: These are the six things that stood out to me in news and commentary on Aotearoa-NZ’s political economy in the two days to 6:06am on Thursday, April 25:Politics: PM Christopher Luxon has set up a dual standard for ministerial competence by demoting two National Cabinet ministers while leaving also-struggling ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    6 days ago
  • One Night Only!
    Hi,Today I mainly want to share some of your thoughts about the recent piece I wrote about success and failure, and the forces that seemingly guide our lives. But first, a quick bit of housekeeping: I am doing a Webworm popup in Los Angeles on Saturday May 11 at 2pm. ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    6 days ago
  • What did Melissa Lee do?
    It is hard to see what Melissa Lee might have done to “save” the media. National went into the election with no public media policy and appears not to have developed one subsequently. Lee claimed that she had prepared a policy paper before the election but it had been decided ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    6 days ago
  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #17 2024
    Open access notables Ice acceleration and rotation in the Greenland Ice Sheet interior in recent decades, Løkkegaard et al., Communications Earth & Environment: In the past two decades, mass loss from the Greenland ice sheet has accelerated, partly due to the speedup of glaciers. However, uncertainty in speed derived from satellite products ...
    6 days ago
  • Maori Party (with “disgust”) draws attention to Chhour’s race after the High Court rules on Wa...
    Buzz from the Beehive A statement from Children’s Minister Karen Chhour – yet to be posted on the Government’s official website – arrived in Point of Order’s email in-tray last night. It welcomes the High Court ruling on whether the Waitangi Tribunal can demand she appear before it. It does ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    7 days ago
  • Who’s Going Up The Media Mountain?
    Mr Bombastic: Ironically, the media the academic experts wanted is, in many ways, the media they got. In place of the tyrannical editors of yesteryear, advancing without fear or favour the interests of the ruling class; the New Zealand news media of today boasts a troop of enlightened journalists dedicated to ...
    7 days ago
  • “That's how I roll”
    It's hard times try to make a livingYou wake up every morning in the unforgivingOut there somewhere in the cityThere's people living lives without mercy or pityI feel good, yeah I'm feeling fineI feel better then I have for the longest timeI think these pills have been good for meI ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    7 days ago
  • “Comity” versus the rule of law
    In 1974, the US Supreme Court issued its decision in United States v. Nixon, finding that the President was not a King, but was subject to the law and was required to turn over the evidence of his wrongdoing to the courts. It was a landmark decision for the rule ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 week ago
  • Aotearoa: a live lab for failed Right-wing socio-economic zombie experiments once more…
    Every day now just seems to bring in more fresh meat for the grinder. In their relentlessly ideological drive to cut back on the “excessive bloat” (as they see it) of the previous Labour-led government, on the mountains of evidence accumulated in such a short period of time do not ...
    exhALANtBy exhalantblog
    1 week ago
  • Water is at the heart of farmers’ struggle to survive in Benin
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Megan Valére Sosou Market gardening site of the Itchèléré de Itagui agricultural cooperative in Dassa-Zoumè (Image credit: Megan Valère Sossou) For the residents of Dassa-Zoumè, a city in the West African country of Benin, choosing between drinking water and having enough ...
    1 week ago

  • Minister acknowledges passing of Sir Robert Martin (KNZM)
    New Zealand lost a true legend when internationally renowned disability advocate Sir Robert Martin (KNZM) passed away at his home in Whanganui last night, Disabilities Issues Minister Louise Upston says. “Our Government’s thoughts are with his wife Lynda, family and community, those he has worked with, the disability community in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    12 hours ago
  • Speech to New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Parliament – Annual Lecture: Challenges ...
    Good evening –   Before discussing the challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand’s foreign policy, we’d like to first acknowledge the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs. You have contributed to debates about New Zealand foreign policy over a long period of time, and we thank you for hosting us.  ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    12 hours ago
  • Accelerating airport security lines
    From today, passengers travelling internationally from Auckland Airport will be able to keep laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags for security screening thanks to new technology, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Creating a more efficient and seamless travel experience is important for holidaymakers and businesses, enabling faster movement through ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    14 hours ago
  • Community hui to talk about kina barrens
    People with an interest in the health of Northland’s marine ecosystems are invited to a public meeting to discuss how to deal with kina barrens, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones will lead the discussion, which will take place on Friday, 10 May, at Awanui Hotel in ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago
  • Kiwi exporters win as NZ-EU FTA enters into force
    Kiwi exporters are $100 million better off today with the NZ EU FTA entering into force says Trade Minister Todd McClay. “This is all part of our plan to grow the economy. New Zealand's prosperity depends on international trade, making up 60 per cent of the country’s total economic activity. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago
  • Mining resurgence a welcome sign
    There are heartening signs that the extractive sector is once again becoming an attractive prospect for investors and a source of economic prosperity for New Zealand, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The beginnings of a resurgence in extractive industries are apparent in media reports of the sector in the past ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    22 hours ago
  • Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill passes first reading
    The return of the historic Ō-Rākau battle site to the descendants of those who fought there moved one step closer today with the first reading of Te Pire mō Ō-Rākau, Te Pae o Maumahara / The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill. The Bill will entrust the 9.7-hectare battle site, five kilometres west ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Government to boost public EV charging network
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has announced 25 new high-speed EV charging hubs along key routes between major urban centres and outlined the Government’s plan to supercharge New Zealand’s EV infrastructure.  The hubs will each have several chargers and be capable of charging at least four – and up to 10 ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Residential Property Managers Bill to not progress
    The coalition Government will not proceed with the previous Government’s plans to regulate residential property managers, Housing Minister Chris Bishop says. “I have written to the Chairperson of the Social Services and Community Committee to inform him that the Government does not intend to support the Residential Property Managers Bill ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Independent review into disability support services
    The Government has announced an independent review into the disability support system funded by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha. Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says the review will look at what can be done to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Disability Support Services to provide disabled people and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Justice Minister updates UN on law & order plan
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has attended the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva and outlined the Government’s plan to restore law and order. “Speaking to the United Nations Human Rights Council provided us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while responding to issues and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Ending emergency housing motels in Rotorua
    The Government and Rotorua Lakes Council are committed to working closely together to end the use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua. Associate Minister of Housing (Social Housing) Tama Potaka says the Government remains committed to ending the long-term use of contracted emergency housing motels in Rotorua by the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Trade Minister travels to Riyadh, OECD, and Dubai
    Trade Minister Todd McClay heads overseas today for high-level trade talks in the Gulf region, and a key OECD meeting in Paris. Mr McClay will travel to Riyadh to meet with counterparts from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). “New Zealand’s goods and services exports to the Gulf region ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Education priorities focused on lifting achievement
    Education Minister Erica Stanford has outlined six education priorities to deliver a world-leading education system that sets Kiwi kids up for future success. “I’m putting ambition, achievement and outcomes at the heart of our education system. I want every child to be inspired and engaged in their learning so they ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • NZTA App first step towards digital driver licence
    The new NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) App is a secure ‘one stop shop’ to provide the services drivers need, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Digitising Government Minister Judith Collins say.  “The NZTA App will enable an easier way for Kiwis to pay for Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges (RUC). ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Supporting whānau out of emergency housing
    Whānau with tamariki growing up in emergency housing motels will be prioritised for social housing starting this week, says Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka. “Giving these whānau a better opportunity to build healthy stable lives for themselves and future generations is an essential part of the Government’s goal of reducing ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Tribute to Dave O'Sullivan
    Racing Minister Winston Peters has paid tribute to an icon of the industry with the recent passing of Dave O’Sullivan (OBE). “Our sympathies are with the O’Sullivan family with the sad news of Dave O’Sullivan’s recent passing,” Mr Peters says. “His contribution to racing, initially as a jockey and then ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Speech – Eid al-Fitr
    Assalaamu alaikum, greetings to you all. Eid Mubarak, everyone! I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and everyone celebrating this joyous occasion. It is a pleasure to be here. I have enjoyed Eid celebrations at Parliament before, but this is my first time joining you as the Minister ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Government saves access to medicines
    Associate Health Minister David Seymour has announced Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, fixing a $1.774 billion fiscal cliff.    “Access to medicines is a crucial part of many Kiwis’ lives. We’ve committed to a budget allocation of $1.774 billion over four years so Kiwis are ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Pharmac Chair appointed
    Hon Paula Bennett has been appointed as member and chair of the Pharmac board, Associate Health Minister David Seymour announced today. "Pharmac is a critical part of New Zealand's health system and plays a significant role in ensuring that Kiwis have the best possible access to medicines,” says Mr Seymour. ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Taking action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
    Hundreds of New Zealand families affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) will benefit from a new Government focus on prevention and treatment, says Health Minister Dr Shane Reti. “We know FASD is a leading cause of preventable intellectual and neurodevelopmental disability in New Zealand,” Dr Reti says.  “Every day, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • New sports complex opens in Kaikohe
    Regional Development Minister Shane Jones today attended the official opening of Kaikohe’s new $14.7 million sports complex. “The completion of the Kaikohe Multi Sports Complex is a fantastic achievement for the Far North,” Mr Jones says. “This facility not only fulfils a long-held dream for local athletes, but also creates ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Diplomacy needed more than ever
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ engagements in Türkiye this week underlined the importance of diplomacy to meet growing global challenges.    “Returning to the Gallipoli Peninsula to represent New Zealand at Anzac commemorations was a sombre reminder of the critical importance of diplomacy for de-escalating conflicts and easing tensions,” Mr Peters ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address, Buttes New British Cemetery Belgium
    Ambassador Millar, Burgemeester, Vandepitte, Excellencies, military representatives, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen – good morning and welcome to this sacred Anzac Day dawn service.  It is an honour to be here on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand at Buttes New British Cemetery, Polygon Wood – a deeply ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – NZ National Service, Chunuk Bair
    Distinguished guests -   It is an honour to return once again to this site which, as the resting place for so many of our war-dead, has become a sacred place for generations of New Zealanders.   Our presence here and at the other special spaces of Gallipoli is made ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    6 days ago
  • Anzac Commemorative Address – Dawn Service, Gallipoli, Türkiye
    Mai ia tawhiti pamamao, te moana nui a Kiwa, kua tae whakaiti mai matou, ki to koutou papa whenua. No koutou te tapuwae, no matou te tapuwae, kua honoa pumautia.   Ko nga toa kua hinga nei, o te Waipounamu, o te Ika a Maui, he okioki tahi me o ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    7 days ago
  • PM announces changes to portfolios
    Paul Goldsmith will take on responsibility for the Media and Communications portfolio, while Louise Upston will pick up the Disability Issues portfolio, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced today. “Our Government is relentlessly focused on getting New Zealand back on track. As issues change in prominence, I plan to adjust Ministerial ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • New catch limits for unique fishery areas
    Recreational catch limits will be reduced in areas of Fiordland and the Chatham Islands to help keep those fisheries healthy and sustainable, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. The lower recreational daily catch limits for a range of finfish and shellfish species caught in the Fiordland Marine Area and ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Minister welcomes hydrogen milestone
    Energy Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed an important milestone in New Zealand’s hydrogen future, with the opening of the country’s first network of hydrogen refuelling stations in Wiri. “I want to congratulate the team at Hiringa Energy and its partners K one W one (K1W1), Mitsui & Co New Zealand ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Urgent changes to system through first RMA Amendment Bill
    The coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to improve resource management laws and give greater certainty to consent applicants, with a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) expected to be introduced to Parliament next month. RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop has today outlined the first RMA Amendment ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Overseas decommissioning models considered
    Overseas models for regulating the oil and gas sector, including their decommissioning regimes, are being carefully scrutinised as a potential template for New Zealand’s own sector, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. The Coalition Government is focused on rebuilding investor confidence in New Zealand’s energy sector as it looks to strengthen ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Release of North Island Severe Weather Event Inquiry
    Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell has today released the Report of the Government Inquiry into the response to the North Island Severe Weather Events. “The report shows that New Zealand’s emergency management system is not fit-for-purpose and there are some significant gaps we need to address,” Mr Mitchell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week ago
  • Justice Minister to attend Human Rights Council
    Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith is today travelling to Europe where he’ll update the United Nations Human Rights Council on the Government’s work to restore law and order.  “Attending the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva provides us with an opportunity to present New Zealand’s human rights progress, priorities, and challenges, while ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 week 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 week 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 week 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 week 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 week 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 week 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 weeks 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
    2 weeks ago

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