The decline and fall in National’s polling under English

Written By: - Date published: 4:19 pm, September 10th, 2017 - 144 comments
Categories: bill english, election 2017, jacinda ardern, Judith Collins, national, paula bennett, Politics - Tags:

This election is starting to feel like a rerun of 2002.  I could not believe how bad the campaign was back then.  The campaign launch felt like a funeral and nothing went right.

And when the dust settled National polled 21%.

This is a graph that has surfaced showing relative changes to National’s polling after English took over as leader.  I have not been able to double check the earlier figures for 2002 but certainly during the campaign support for National slid by 9% points.

It is not pretty.

I am not saying that it will match this again.  But a result in the low 30s is not out of the question and is looking more and more likely.

And if this occurs you can bet there will be a leadership spill.

Already the likely starters are showing up.  Paula Bennett is a non starter.  She is also in serious trouble.

Bridges?  Too unlikeable.

The only two possibilities are Nicky Kaye, who worked out the best way to deal with Jacinda Ardern was to avoid debating with her and Judith Collins.

Fun times …

144 comments on “The decline and fall in National’s polling under English ”

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  1. Vaughn 1
    10 September 2017 at 4:22 pm

    Amy Adams? Todd McLay? I don’t pretend to know very much about either of them, but surely they’re better contenders for National party leadership than Collins. But I agree with you regarding Kaye. She and she alone offers National the best chance of trying to blunt the influence of Jacinda.

  2. Chess Player 2
    10 September 2017 at 4:32 pm

    English is no kind of leader, and while everyone could see that last time, it seems some need a reminder.
    This reinforces, of course, how many NZ voters are driven by personality politics as opposed to the policies themselves.
    Many were happy with Key, but are not happy with Bill, even though the policies have not changed much.
    Same for Labour – the difference between Little and Ardern is the reason for the higher polls, as the policies haven’t changed radically on that side either.
    As for who would replace English?
    I’d say someone who’s ambitious but dumb will get the job and do the work of leading the opposition for a while before being rolled in time for the next election.
    Take your pick – there’s plenty of options in their caucus….

  3. Stephen Doyle 3
    10 September 2017 at 4:36 pm

    Judith as caretaker, rally the troops, take it to the opposition etc. Then early 2020 gets rolled by Simon Bridges. ( He’s a man.)

  4. Roy 4
    10 September 2017 at 4:37 pm

    They really are a dire bunch. Look how many good people there are in the L/G bloc who could lead… Grant, Andrew, James, Marama, even Tracey Martin is better than anyone in NP. the mask has well and truly slipped.

    • WILD KATIPO 4.1
      10 September 2017 at 5:38 pm

      Yes ,… the John Key mask.

    • lurgee 4.2
      10 September 2017 at 9:05 pm

      We’ve had our own fair share and then some of indifferent leaders.

      Let’s not get too cocky just because National are caught in the Goff years … A wry nod, and a sympathetic wink, rather than jeering.

      Because we’ll be back there again, soon enough …

  5. UncookedSelachimorpha 5
    10 September 2017 at 4:37 pm

    Glad to see the back of this National government. But it is sort of perverse that the behaviour, ethics, policies and beliefs of John Key were if anything worse than those of Bill English, and yet such a different perception from the general public. In no way do I think English is worse for NZ than Key was – both are appalling.

    • boggis the cat 5.1
      10 September 2017 at 9:54 pm

      An honest regressive is preferable to a dishonest regressive.

      Key is a slippery, dead-eyed, weirdo, with some ability to act like a normal human being. English at least acts in accordance with who he is. (In my ‘I am not a psychiatrist, but’ opinion.)

      • tracey 5.1.1
        11 September 2017 at 6:28 am

        In rugby parlance English is a Todd Blackadder. A really steady domestic player and people wanted him to be a good All Black but he wasnt.

        I do think English is a good Nat team man. I bet the cowards who will line up to plunge the knife post election were no where to be seen when Keys replacement was needed.

    • tracey 5.2
      11 September 2017 at 6:25 am

      Key was caught in so many lies or in misleading. The difference? Seems to be the willingness of the media to shine a light on it.

  6. Incognito 6
    10 September 2017 at 4:50 pm

    The Incredible Shrinking Mandate.

    The mandate that got wheeled out to justify just about everything under the sun, but without letting the sunlight in, of course.

    You have to love our FPP-styled approach to democracy …

  7. ScottGN 7
    10 September 2017 at 4:59 pm

    The NBR would seem to agree with you about Nikki Kaye. They splashed her all over the front page of last Friday’s edition as a possible contender to take National into the 2020 election.

  8. Carolyn_nth 8
    10 September 2017 at 5:07 pm

    Wild Card – Simon Power to return to politics in next year.

  9. dev 9
    10 September 2017 at 5:09 pm

    Nicky will go first but won’t get anywhere. Apart from Helen Clark, when was the last time ‘the next prime minister’ in parliament before the start of that party’s term in opposition?

    • alwyn 9.1
      10 September 2017 at 8:52 pm

      What exactly are you asking?
      The new PMs since the second World War, who came into the job by taking over from a Government from the alternative side, were.
      1949 Holland
      1957 Nash
      1960 Holyoake
      1972 Kirk
      1975 Muldoon
      1984 Lange
      1990 Bolger
      1999 Clark
      2008 Key
      Only Holland, Lange and Key became PM after entering Parliament when their own party was in Opposition. Even at that Holland had been there for 14 years.
      The simple answer to you question is Bolger, the one immediately before her in taking over from the Opposition. Hers was the normal route, not an exception.
      Of those who took over the job during a parliamentary session, rather than an election, all of them, that is Holyoake, Marshall, Rowling, Shipley and English had been in Parliament during their parties last term in opposition.

      • Richard Christie 9.1.1
        10 September 2017 at 10:27 pm

        What exactly are you asking?

        Yes, dev’s comment/question is incoherent.

      • tracey 9.1.2
        11 September 2017 at 6:36 am

        Thanks for this.

        I got confused after Bolger. Who is the she you are referring to? Shipley?

        • alwyn 9.1.2.1
          11 September 2017 at 1:38 pm

          No. That was Clark I meant there..
          Dev’s question, to which I was replying was “Apart from Helen Clark…….”, I was referring to Clark when I said “her” and “hers”. I see why you got confused though. It isn’t terribly well worded is it? I meant that Bolger, like Clark, took over directly from the Opposition job rather than succeeding one of their own party.
          Also it should have been your not you before the word question.
          I guess my comment was as confused as Dev’s.

  10. Kat 10
    10 September 2017 at 5:32 pm

    Maggie Barry………..huge experience with pruning, cutting back, weeding out, fertilizing, leaf raking and composting. Not to mention a dab hand at spreading the manure. Has the required previous celebrity TV personality status to keep MSM entertained. No real social or economic skills required as normal for a Nat. Should be a shoe in.

  11. Pete 11
    10 September 2017 at 5:40 pm

    “Paula Bennett is a non starter. She is also in serious trouble.”

    The electorate forecast has her at 52%+. That’s not in trouble. She’ll cruise in.

    http://insights.nzherald.co.nz/article/2017-election-forecast/

    • WILD KATIPO 11.1
      10 September 2017 at 5:46 pm

      I really , really hope she does.

      We can then look forward to decades of a Labour led govt being in power.

    • ScottGN 11.2
      10 September 2017 at 5:53 pm

      I don’t think that was the trouble Mickey was referring to…

      • Pat 11.2.1
        10 September 2017 at 6:09 pm

        lol..+1

      • Pete 11.2.2
        10 September 2017 at 7:45 pm

        41 people in the country saying she is in ‘trouble’ means nothing. If she had ‘trouble’ and it was out like the Aaron Smith thing, or a ‘troubling situation’ which the electorate was aware of, think Northland, it might be or some relevance and even significance. She doesn’t, it isn’t.

    • mickysavage 11.3
      10 September 2017 at 7:25 pm

      She is in trouble in that her personal rating amongst National’s caucus has plummeted for some reason I cannot put my finger on.

      • Pat 11.3.1
        10 September 2017 at 7:32 pm

        large extinct native flightless birds

      • ScottGN 11.3.2
        10 September 2017 at 7:45 pm

        That Herald forecasting tool throws up some weird results though.
        It has Winston coming third in Northland for example. And doesn’t even mention Raf Manji in Ilam.
        Good to see that it does, however, forecast Labour piling up some seriously good Party Vote totals in the south and west Auckland heartlands, Dunedin and Wellington.

        • ScottGN 11.3.2.1
          10 September 2017 at 7:55 pm

          Also has Priyanca Radhakrishnan taking Maungakiekie of the Nats though which is good to see. Labour tends to hold that seat when it is in government.

        • Pete 11.3.2.2
          10 September 2017 at 9:23 pm

          Does it throw up weird results because of the weird factors they base their opinions on?

          “Predictions for candidate vote by electorate take into account the trends in previous elections and polling data. These are hardest to predict because of tactical voting.”

          What polling data is there in Northland specifically relating to candidates? What relevance do “trends in previous elections” have in that seat related to NZF?

          What polling is there in Whangarei that has Reti on 45% , Tony Savage on 29% and Jones on 13%?

          They make allowance for special factors in Epsom. What that equals is that the numbers are opinions based on guesswork.

      • Ad 11.3.3
        10 September 2017 at 7:47 pm

        Curious.

      • KJT 11.3.4
        10 September 2017 at 8:51 pm

        They have scored an own goal with the bene bashing of Metiria Turei.

        Bennet is just as vulnerable, as no one gets through WINZ unscathed, if they survive, unless they have a lot of outside help and resources.

      • Craig GlenEden 11.3.5
        10 September 2017 at 9:16 pm

        you dont want to put your finger any where near IT, Mickey. haha

      • tc 11.3.6
        11 September 2017 at 6:39 am

        More unsavory dealings they’re trying to do a richard worth/prominent nz with perhaps ?

        Pullya lives the limelight and a good dog whistle so its suss shes not about the place spreading her odious persona helping the nact cause.

    • greg 11.4
      11 September 2017 at 5:37 am

      thats to we get to work on her benefit history and leak her private details what comes around goes around

    • tracey 11.5
      11 September 2017 at 6:39 am

      He doesnt mean she will lose her seat but will not get Leadership. Hint of character: proud to be a westie. First sign of competition buggers off to upper class dominating Upper Harbour

  12. Hongi Ika 12
    10 September 2017 at 5:44 pm

    New Zealand First have the best policies and the best leadership however they are not covered by MSM unless there is some shit to fly around http://www.nzfirst.org.nz

    • Union city greens 12.1
      10 September 2017 at 7:15 pm

      They haven’t and they don’t. Winston’s fucked this election, then he’s dead.
      Shane Jones loses to Ron Marks as leader to take NZ1st into oblivion to join Dunne and UF. Old people and racist bigots find someone else to appease their shallow mindedness.

      • alwyn 12.1.1
        10 September 2017 at 8:56 pm

        Oh well. When NZF go they will be following the current Green Party into the outer darkness.
        I see the Greens were apparently going to announce what they would do about Climate Change today. Did they do so? Was it the same as the policy the Labour Party announced on Friday? If so will any news media report it?

        • KJT 12.1.1.1
          10 September 2017 at 8:58 pm

          Greens will get 8%, don’t worry.

        • boggis the cat 12.1.1.2
          10 September 2017 at 10:05 pm

          Their policy is here:
          http://www.worthsaving.org.nz/

          Or were you referring to something more specific?

          • alwyn 12.1.1.2.1
            11 September 2017 at 12:04 am

            It hardly seems worth reading.
            Is there anything there that Labour didn’t announce on Friday?
            For parties with this fabled “MOU” Labour really do seem to be putting the boot into the Green Party don’t they?
            Were the Green party advised about what Jaciinda Ardern was going to do on Friday?

            • WILD KATIPO 12.1.1.2.1.1
              11 September 2017 at 12:08 am

              … ” It hardly seems worth reading ” …

              I hate to say it , alwyn , but erm… your none too subtle attempts at keeping the faith with a sinking National is kind of getting… less than convincing,…. shall we say….

              • alwyn …
                11 September 2017 at 9:14 am

                You really don’t know anything about my political views you silly boy (or silly girl).
                I don’t have any “faith” in a political party. I would be only too happy to be able to support Labour this election but they really don’t appear to be capable of running a Government.

                The National Party are clearly old and tired. The problem is that the main alternative doesn’t have any willingness to let us know what their economic policies really are. What are they going to do with their taxes and at what levels will they be set?

                My only consolation if Labour get in is that they will have to form a coalition with Winston, who will control the silliest of their policies. I also do not expect there to be a “Green” party in the house.
                Perhaps someone will be able to form a genuine environmental party before 2020 which has room for a Kennedy Graham but can dispense with the likes of Davidson.

                • WILD KATIPO …
                  11 September 2017 at 3:22 pm

                  Ha!… we have seen you staunchly sing the praises of National for the past few years and now they look like they are going to cave you seem to be warming to Labour.

                  With , of course, the caveat of inserting that Labour ‘they really don’t appear to be capable of running a Government ‘.

                  So that just shows that either you don’t know you’re own mind or vote on personality / whoever’s likely to win, – rather than policy. OR , – you are being duplicitous intentionally.

                  It would appear that the only reason you say that , … is not because you ‘ would be only too happy to be able to support Labour this election ‘ , – but rather as a continuance of your tired jaded attempts at painting the Left Bloc as National try’s to , – as a risk , as financially incapable. Despite the surpluses of the Helen Clarke govt which National was the benefactor of , – and are now squandering.

                  Silly boy.

                  • alwyn …
                    11 September 2017 at 4:53 pm

                    Actually I am the classic swinging voter.
                    Over the last 36 years I have voted Labour in 1981,1984, 1987, 1999 and 2002.
                    I voted National in 1990, 1996, 2005, 2008, 2011 and 2014.
                    I don’t think any Government should go more than 3 terms. They get old and tired. Key was the only major politician I can think of who realised he was worn out and left on his own terms.

                    The Clark Government did quite a good job in their first two terms. However in 2005, in a desperate bid to get a third term they brought in the totally crazy interest free student loans system and the equally foolish Kiwisaver. It did absolutely nothing to increase the New Zealand savings. It merely switched them to a ridiculously subsidised form of savings.
                    Labour then led New Zealand into the GFC a year ahead of anyone else and left our prospects in the pits in 2008. They had totally stuffed the economy and left us with the prospect of a decade of deficits.

                    We may get a Labour led Government. God knows what they will do with the tax system and with Industrial relations policy.

                    • One Anonymous Bloke …
                      11 September 2017 at 5:10 pm

                      What a load of drivel. The decade of deficits happened under National, caused – according to Treasury, who made the prediction – by global economic conditions.

                      The predictions assumed that Labour wouldn’t adjust its spending to suit.

                      Then, gullible fools like you believed English and Key when they talked out of both sides of their mouths – saying one thing to business audiences (“the is the rainy day the government has been saving up for”) and another to their dupes (that’s you).

                      After nine years you still haven’t woken up to being played. It’s pathetic.

                      Edit: when the sky fails to fall on your head over the course of the sixth Labour government, get some personal responsibility and acknowledge it. Earn some of your dignity back.

                    • tracey …
                      11 September 2017 at 5:27 pm

                      And yet you repeat Nat memes likre they are fact ad nauseum. Can you link to Nats full costing of their spending promises up to and including the first home buyer bribe yesterday

            • tracey 12.1.1.2.1.2
              11 September 2017 at 6:42 am

              Do National, Act and MP consult each other alwyn?

              You seem to dislike the transparency of an agreement to work together to defeat National? Can you post the independent costings link for Nationals spending promises including the bribe to first home buyers yesterday?

              • alwyn …
                11 September 2017 at 9:34 am

                “Do National, Act and MP consult each other alwyn”.
                I very much doubt it during an election campaign. They are, if they are sensible, campaigning exclusively for their own parties.
                So are the Labour Party, as far as I can see. They may have been happy to have a MOU when they were polling very badly but I don’t think they will be taking any notice of it now. They will be, as any party should, be trying to get as many votes for themselves as they can.

                On their current polling levels they will need Winston but not the Greens. Indeed, I can see no reason why they should want the Greens in the house at all, and their campaigning and policy announcements appear to be having the effect of cutting off the Green Party air.
                They won’t announce that they have cut the Greens off. That could cost them some votes of their own. They certainly won’t be helping them though.

                Remember 2005 when Labour abandoned the Green Party at the altar?
                I think they will do it again if they can get away with it. After all the certainly aren’t talking about including the Green Party in Government are they? All they is promising is that they will give them a telephone call.

                • tracey …
                  11 September 2017 at 5:28 pm

                  LOL@ you being an alleged swinging voter. You cant let go the Nats apron strings

                • tracey …
                  11 September 2017 at 5:31 pm

                  I have been getting stick here for saying Labour may well go with NZF altho today Winston showed a preference for Nats. You swing in the sense that you vote for whichever party is the current incarnation of Me-ism.

                  • alwyn …
                    11 September 2017 at 6:50 pm

                    “today Winston showed a preference for Nats”.
                    I didn’t see that, although it doesn’t surprise me. I commented on this topic the other day.
                    Winston is likely to attack Labour and the Greens if he sees the slightest chance that they could form a Government without him.
                    Have a look at the second half of this comment from last week.
                    https://thestandard.org.nz/labour-takes-the-lead-in-rnz-poll-of-polls/#comment-1380367
                    It isn’t a new opinion either. Look at the last part of this comment in March 2016
                    https://thestandard.org.nz/can-we-trust-winston-peters/#comment-1149470
                    You should never expect him to do anything except promote Winston’s best interests.
                    As for your view that ” You swing in the sense that you vote for whichever party is the current incarnation of Me-ism.”.
                    I follow the view that I will vote for the people who will provide the best future for New Zealand. I am far to old to bother that much about my own future.

  13. Adrian 13
    10 September 2017 at 5:46 pm

    Cometh the hour, cometh the man ! . NICK SMITH, tanned, rested and ready.

  14. Ad 14
    10 September 2017 at 6:10 pm

    Bennett with Bridges as Deputy.

    Bennett is fearless in the House and bested Ardern easily in debate. Hard to see Joyce continuing.

    Big question is Shadow Finance.

    (Unless Winston goes with National.
    Not impossible at all.)

    • ScottGN 14.1
      10 September 2017 at 6:23 pm

      Quite apart from the fact that Bennett has become a bit of a liability for National her combative, patronising style would do nothing to help the party if they are put into opposition.

    • Robert Guyton 14.2
      10 September 2017 at 6:59 pm

      Bennett is unlovable. Lovability is what this election’s all about (donchaknow!).
      Jacinda!

      • Ad 14.2.1
        10 September 2017 at 7:45 pm

        Love is great for getting elected. But when Ardern crashes the property markets, what the Opposition and the mortgage-owning bourgeois need …

        …is hate.

        Hate and rage.

        For that, a Bennett-Collins combination would be awesome to behold.

  15. Ian Macdonald 15
    10 September 2017 at 6:23 pm

    Bridges/Kaye

    • tracey 15.1
      11 September 2017 at 6:44 am

      God please not Bridges

    • tc 15.2
      11 September 2017 at 7:08 am

      Yeeees slimey bridges please yes, he can respond to some q&a over his portfolios from incoming ministers to show everyone what a lying little sock puppet he is.

      Once they’re gone the job of ensuring nz is well aware of their gutiing and wrecking begins, lest we forget etc.

  16. Kat 16
    10 September 2017 at 6:26 pm

    Cameron Slater……………… nothing to lose after going through the bottom of the barrel and the Nats like helicoptering leaders in. Bennett would remain as deputy and they would be the first twin – like Nat leaders which would have huge celebrity status with the MSM.

  17. WILD KATIPO 17
    10 September 2017 at 7:15 pm

    So the consensus is : Sweetie for PM , and ‘Bridges’ Bridges for Deputy.

    Yep ,… that oughta do it.

    Perfect.

  18. irascible 18
    10 September 2017 at 7:15 pm

    Once the PR spin stops the incredibly shallow pool the National Party can draw its MPs from becomes obvious. How about Gerry Brownlee as Leader in the interim?

  19. Ad 19
    10 September 2017 at 7:49 pm

    Joyce as leader, Bridges as Deputy.

    That would be very markets-agreeable.

  20. Robert Guyton 20
    10 September 2017 at 8:05 pm

    Mary! Don’t forget Mary.

  21. ianmac 21
    10 September 2017 at 8:07 pm

    @ Micky ” Paula Bennett is a non starter. She is also in serious trouble.”

    Is there anything specific for Bennett’ serious trouble?

  23. Tricledrown 23
    10 September 2017 at 8:54 pm

    Double Dipped out Djavu 2002.

  24. WILD KATIPO 24
    10 September 2017 at 9:00 pm

    If they go down in the woods today ,
    They’re sure of a big surprise
    If they go down in the woods today
    Nats better go in disguise

    For every Lab / Green that ever there was
    Will gather there for certain
    Because today’s the day the
    New Zealanders have their election !

    Election time for the Left wing Bloc,
    The Left wing Bloc are having
    A lovely time today
    Watch them, catching all the votes,
    And see them governing with a loud hip hip – hooray !

  25. Kat 25
    10 September 2017 at 9:05 pm

    Wild Katipo…….the long warm sunny picnic is about to begin.

  26. swordfish 26
    10 September 2017 at 10:46 pm

    I have not been able to double check the earlier figures for 2002 but certainly during the campaign support for National slid by 9% points.

    Depends which Pollsters you look at:

    The 2002 New Zealand Election Study’s polling suggested the Nats had already crashed well before the final month of the campaign, remaining pretty steady in the final 4 weeks between 20-25%.

    The Herald-Digi showed a relatively steady 8 point decline over the final 50 or so days of the campaign (from 31% (10 June) down to 23% (26 July), the day before the Election)

    TV One Colmar Brunton recorded an 11 point fall for the Nats over the final 2 months (32% down to 21% – with a particularly heavy decline over the final 10 days of the campaign – plunging from 27% down to 21%)

    While TV3 showed some similarities with the NZES, recording a very mild decline over the final 50 days of the campaign – the Nats already down on 24% as early as 10 June, then drifting down slightly to 21% by their final poll, 2 days before the Election.

    So … A Tale of 4 Pollsters

    • WILD KATIPO 26.1
      10 September 2017 at 11:38 pm

      … ” While TV3 showed some similarities with the NZES, recording a very mild decline over the final 50 days of the campaign – the Nats already down on 24% as early as 10 June, then drifting down slightly to 21% by their final poll, 2 days before the Election ” …

      Reminds me of an ocean liner sinking then finally coming to rest on the sea bed and finally settling into the mud …

    • tracey 26.2
      11 September 2017 at 6:53 am

      Swordy? Are you able to access polls for the Greens in elections prior to 2005 and how the polls matched, or did not, their election day result?

      I am interested in how the Greens fared when Labour was stronger. My sense is their core is aroubd 5.8_6.8% of the vote in those circumstances?

  27. silvertuatara 27
    11 September 2017 at 12:32 am

    1 more poll with English/Nat’s on the decline will it take for National to consider spilling Bill in the next 2 weeks. However so close to the election National must weight up the lack of cut through outside of the MSM a change to Nikki Kaye will make, and every day the election comes closer, there is one less day for her to visit the regions, meeting and greeting the people.

    If National do Spill Bill, then this will validate further the political commentators and general public’s comments calling out English’s support of Joyce’s Fiscal Hole Hit. The general public has seen through this National smear.

    The first week of Nikki Kaye’s position of PM, if this transpired prior to the Election, would be her repeatedly answering whether Joyce’s fiscal hole smear was a lie.

    If Kaye continued to support Joyce’s debunked smear then she herself would be called out on matters of trust, and if she came clean and admitted that Joyce was just plain wrong, then the whole National Party campaign for the past 2 weeks and the remainder of the election will struggle further with her own validation of Joyce’s smear campaign.

    I wonder if Barcley’s recording device is still floating around the Beehive, or perhaps lodged down the back of a seat on a Blue Electioneering bus…..would be interesting to see whether the temperature within the Nat Caucus has passed boiling yet and who is the next front runner to lead the National Party…either before or after the election.

    • Craig H 27.1
      11 September 2017 at 6:30 am

      In my opinion, now that voting has started, spilling any leader can only really hurt the chances, not help.

  28. tracey 28
    11 September 2017 at 6:56 am

    A friend of mine who is left on the spectrum spent yesterday with her father and his wife. Her father to her memory has only ever voted National or Act. Yesterday they both talked effusively about voting Labour. This kind of anecdote doesnt bode well for Nats. However this couple are in Hawkes Bay so maybe voting Nash? Which is like voting National 😉

    My father, a National voter since his second election with a couple of daliances with Act remains staunchly National and believes Joyces hole.

  29. tracey 29
    11 September 2017 at 6:59 am

     friend of mine who is left on the spectrum spent yesterday with her father and his wife. Her father to her memory has only ever voted National or Act. Yesterday they both talked effusively about voting Labour. This kind of anecdote doesnt bode well for Nats. However this couple are in Hawkes Bay so maybe voting Nash? Which is like voting National 

    My father, a National voter since his second election with a couple of daliances with Act remains staunchly National and believes Joyces hole.

  30. Thinkerr 30
    11 September 2017 at 8:53 pm

    I’ve watched Judith Collins in the past 12 months or so. She’s playing by the book, and has never been on the media’s radar screen when troubles about. My money’s on the Crusher as the Matriarch of the next National, seemingly in its wilderness period. That means a male deputy, which in my guess is going to be Bridges, as the kind of character National would want to take to a winnable election as leader. English took them to the depths of despair in 02, and they had a winning formula by 08, so they might imagine doing it again with Bridges and a cheeky grin as with the transition from Brash to Key.

    Lets assume that the polls are accurately forecasting the outcome, though, and we get a Left government this year.

    This election appears to be the one I’ve been waiting for, or I hope so. For the first time there seems to be growing media recognition that neoliberalism is not what it was said to be and if the left win, I think there’ll be a post-election media opinion that it was the humanity factor that made the difference. That should mean that National will need to move away from the messages of the past (low-inflation-at-all-costs, tax-cuts paid for by benefit cuts, etc) before it can come back.

    Granted, there’s a lot of ifs and maybes in all that, but if its on the right track, its going to be the hardest thing to go back to the kind of conservative politics of the likes of Holyoake & Marshall.

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    Photo # 1 I am a huge fan of Singapore’s approach to housing, as described here two years ago by copying and pasting from The ConversationWhat Singapore has that Australia does not is a public housing developer, the Housing Development Board, which puts new dwellings on public and reclaimed land, ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    7 hours ago

  • RMA reforms aim to ease stock-grazing rules and reduce farmers’ costs – but Taxpayers’ Union w...
    Buzz from the Beehive Reactions to news of the government’s readiness to make urgent changes to “the resource management system” through a Bill to amend the Resource Management Act (RMA) suggest a balanced approach is being taken. The Taxpayers’ Union says the proposed changes don’t go far enough.  Greenpeace says ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    8 hours ago

  • Luxon Strikes Out.
    I’m starting to wonder if Anna Burns-Francis might be the best political interviewer we’ve got. That might sound unlikely to you, it came as a bit of a surprise to me.Jack Tame can be excellent, but has some pretty average days. I like Rebecca Wright on Newshub, she asks good ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    12 hours ago

  • In many ways the media that the experts wanted, turned out to be the media they have got
    Chris Trotter writes –  Willie Jackson is said to be planning a “media summit” to discuss “the state of the media and how to protect Fourth Estate Journalism”. Not only does the Editor of The Daily Blog, Martyn Bradbury, think this is a good idea, but he has also ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    12 hours ago

  • The Waitangi Tribunal Summons; or the more things stay the same
    Graeme Edgeler writes –  This morning [April 21], the Wellington High Court is hearing a judicial review brought by Hon. Karen Chhour, the Minister for Children, against a decision of the Waitangi Tribunal. This is unusual, judicial reviews are much more likely to brought against ministers, rather than ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    12 hours ago

  • Both Parliamentary watchdogs hammer Fast-track bill
    Both of Parliament’s watchdogs have now ripped into the Government’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s political economy and beyond on the morning of Tuesday, April 23 are:The Lead: The Auditor General, John Ryan, has joined the ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    13 hours ago

  • India makes a big bet on electric buses
    This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Sarah Spengeman People wait to board an electric bus in Pune, India. (Image credit: courtesy of ITDP) Public transportation riders in Pune, India, love the city’s new electric buses so much they will actually skip an older diesel bus that ...
    Skeptical Science
    15 hours ago

  • Bernard’s pick ‘n’ mix of the news links at 6:36am on Tuesday, April 23
    TL;DR: These six news links stood out in the last 24 hours to 6:36am on Tuesday, April 22:Scoop & Deep Dive: How Sir Peter Jackson got to have his billion-dollar exit cake and eat Hollywood too NZ Herald-$$$ Matt NippertFast Track Approval Bill: Watchdogs seek substantial curbs on ministers' powers ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    17 hours ago

  • What is really holding up infrastructure
    The infrastructure industry yesterday issued a “hurry up” message to the Government, telling it to get cracking on developing a pipeline of infrastructure projects.The hiatus around the change of Government has seen some major projects cancelled and others delayed, and there is uncertainty about what will happen with the new ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    18 hours ago

  • “Pure Unadulterated Charge”
    Hi,Over the weekend I revisited a podcast I really adore, Dead Eyes. It’s about a guy who got fired from Band of Brothers over two decades ago because Tom Hanks said he had “dead eyes”.If you don’t recall — 2001’s Band of Brothers was part of the emerging trend of ...
    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    19 hours ago

  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks for Monday, April 22
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: writes via his substack that’s he’s sceptical about the IPSOS poll last week suggesting a slide into authoritarianism here, writing: Kiwis seem to want their cake and eat it too Tal Aster writes for about How Israel turned homeowners into YIMBYs. writes via his ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    1 day ago

  • The media were given a little list and hastened to pick out Fast Track prospects – but the Treaty ...
     Buzz from the Beehive The 180 or so recipients of letters from the Government telling them how to submit infrastructure projects for “fast track” consideration includes some whose project applications previously have been rejected by the courts. News media were quick to feature these in their reports after RMA Reform Minister Chris ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    1 day ago

  • Just trying to stay upright
    It would not be a desirable way to start your holiday by breaking your back, your head, or your wrist, but on our first hour in Singapore I gave it a try.We were chatting, last week, before we started a meeting of Hazel’s Enviro Trust, about the things that can ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    1 day ago

  • “Unprecedented”
    Today, former Port of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson went on trial on health and safety charges for the death of one of his workers. The Herald calls the trial "unprecedented". Firstly, it's only "unprecedented" because WorkSafe struck a corrupt and unlawful deal to drop charges against Peter Whittall over Pike ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    1 day ago

  • Bryce Edwards: Time for “Fast-Track Watch”
    Calling all journalists, academics, planners, lawyers, political activists, environmentalists, and other members of the public who believe that the relationships between vested interests and politicians need to be scrutinised. We need to work together to make sure that the new Fast-Track Approvals Bill – currently being pushed through by the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    1 day ago

  • Gordon Campbell on fast track powers, media woes and the Tiktok ban
    Feel worried. Shane Jones and a couple of his Cabinet colleagues are about to be granted the power to override any and all objections to projects like dams, mines, roads etc even if: said projects will harm biodiversity, increase global warming and cause other environmental harms, and even if ...
    Gordon CampbellBy lyndon
    1 day ago

  • The Government’s new fast-track invitation to corruption
    Bryce Edwards writes-  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. ...
    Point of OrderBy gadams1000
    1 day ago

  • Maori push for parallel government structures
    Michael Bassett writes – If you think there is a move afoot by the radical Maori fringe of New Zealand society to create a parallel system of government to the one that we elect at our triennial elections, you aren’t wrong. Over the last few days we have ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    1 day ago

  • An announcement about an announcement
    Without a corresponding drop in interest rates, it’s doubtful any changes to the CCCFA will unleash a massive rush of home buyers. Photo: Lynn GrievesonTL;DR: The six things that stood out to me in Aotearoa’s political economy around housing, poverty and climate on Monday, April 22 included:The Government making a ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago

  • All the Green Tech in China.
    Sunday was a lazy day. I started watching Jack Tame on Q&A, the interviews are usually good for something to write about. Saying the things that the politicians won’t, but are quite possibly thinking. Things that are true and need to be extracted from between the lines.As you might know ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    2 days ago

  • Western Express Success
    In our Weekly Roundup last week we covered news from Auckland Transport that the WX1 Western Express is going to get an upgrade next year with double decker electric buses. As part of the announcement, AT also said “Since we introduced the WX1 Western Express last November we have seen ...
    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
    Identifying the engine type in your car is crucial for various reasons, including maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. Knowing the specific engine model allows you to access detailed technical information, locate compatible parts, and make informed decisions about modifications. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ...
    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
    Your car battery is an essential component that provides power to start your engine, operate your electrical systems, and store energy. Over time, batteries can weaken and lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to starting problems, power failures, and other issues. Replacing your battery before it ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Can You Register a Car Without a License?
    In most states, you cannot register a car without a valid driver’s license. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Exceptions to the Rule If you are under 18 years old: In some states, you can register a car in your name even if you do not ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Mazda: A Comprehensive Evaluation of Reliability, Value, and Performance
    Mazda, a Japanese automotive manufacturer with a rich history of innovation and engineering excellence, has emerged as a formidable player in the global car market. Known for its reputation of producing high-quality, fuel-efficient, and driver-oriented vehicles, Mazda has consistently garnered praise from industry experts and consumers alike. In this article, ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • What Are Struts on a Car?
    Struts are an essential part of a car’s suspension system. They are responsible for supporting the weight of the car and damping the oscillations of the springs. Struts are typically made of steel or aluminum and are filled with hydraulic fluid. How Do Struts Work? Struts work by transferring the ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    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
    Zoom is a video conferencing service that allows you to share your screen, webcam, and audio with other participants. In addition to sharing your own audio, you can also share the audio from your computer with other participants. This can be useful for playing music, sharing presentations with audio, or ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How Long Does It Take to Build a Computer?
    Building your own computer can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to get a high-performance machine tailored to your specific needs. However, it also requires careful planning and execution, and one of the most important factors to consider is the time it will take. The exact time it takes to ...
    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
    Laptop screens are essential for interacting with our devices and accessing information. However, when lines appear on the screen, it can be frustrating and disrupt productivity. Understanding the underlying causes of these lines is crucial for finding effective solutions. Types of Screen Lines Horizontal lines: Also known as scan ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Right-Click on a Laptop
    Right-clicking is a common and essential computer operation that allows users to access additional options and settings. While most desktop computers have dedicated right-click buttons on their mice, laptops often do not have these buttons due to space limitations. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to right-click ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • Where is the Power Button on an ASUS Laptop?
    Powering up and shutting down your ASUS laptop is an essential task for any laptop user. Locating the power button can sometimes be a hassle, especially if you’re new to ASUS laptops. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on where to find the power button on different ASUS laptop ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    3 days ago

  • How to Start a Dell Laptop: A Comprehensive Guide
    Dell laptops are renowned for their reliability, performance, and versatility. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who needs a reliable computing device, a Dell laptop can meet your needs. However, if you’re new to Dell laptops, you may be wondering how to get started. In this comprehensive ...
    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
    A factory reset restores your Gateway laptop to its original factory settings, erasing all data, apps, and personalizations. This can be necessary to resolve software issues, remove viruses, or prepare your laptop for sale or transfer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to factory reset your Gateway laptop: Method 1: ...
    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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    3 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
    Introduction Pickleball, a rapidly growing paddle sport, has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world. Its blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis elements has made it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s popularity continues to surge, the question on ...
    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
    Tinting car windows offers numerous benefits, including enhanced privacy, reduced glare, UV protection, and a more stylish look for your vehicle. However, the cost of window tinting can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you understand how much you can expect to ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • Why Does My Car Smell Like Gas? A Comprehensive Guide to Diagnosing and Fixing the Issue
    The pungent smell of gasoline in your car can be an alarming and potentially dangerous problem. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also indicate a serious issue with your vehicle’s fuel system. In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your car may smell like ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How to Remove Tree Sap from Car A Comprehensive Guide
    Tree sap can be a sticky, unsightly mess on your car’s exterior. It can be difficult to remove, but with the right techniques and products, you can restore your car to its former glory. Understanding Tree Sap Tree sap is a thick, viscous liquid produced by trees to seal wounds ...
    Gareth’s WorldBy admin
    4 days ago

  • How Much Paint Do You Need to Paint a Car?
    The amount of paint needed to paint a car depends on a number of factors, including the size of the car, the number of coats you plan to apply, and the type of paint you are using. In general, you will need between 1 and 2 gallons of paint for ...
    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
    Note: this blog post has been put together over the course of the week I followed the happenings at the conference virtually. Should recordings of the Great Debates and possibly Union Symposia mentioned below, be released sometime after the conference ends, I'll include links to the ones I participated in. ...
    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
    4 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
    6 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
    13 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
    13 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
    14 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
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  • Humanitarian support for Ethiopia and Somalia
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  • Supporting better financial outcomes for Kiwis
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  • Trade relationship with China remains strong
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  • Judicial appointments announced
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  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
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  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
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  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
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  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
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  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
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  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
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