The week Luxon lost his moral mandate to lead
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8:44 am, January 29th, 2024 - 30 comments
Categories: Christopher Luxon, david seymour, Politics, racism, Shane Jones, treaty settlements, winston peters -
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I have tried to write this post for a week now. But each day things have become worse or better depending on your point of view.
Ratana last Wednesday was very interesting. It is normally a happy peaceful event. But this time there was clearly a great deal of anger amongst local Iwi.
The various coalition parties’ approach to the day showed a variety of responses.
One of the coalition parties responded to the invitation by publicly insulting the hosts.
Why would you be there? My understanding is a guy came out as a prophet of his own religious movement in the 1870s. And politicians feel a strange obligation to be there every year. I've never felt that.https://t.co/WCVYAK3fSj
— David Seymour (@dbseymour) January 24, 2024
The other minor party engaged in some over the top male testosterone driven behaviour after being welcomed onto the paepae but criticised because of the attacks on te Tiriti. Shane Jones and Winston Peters feigned grave offence at the criticism directed their way and Jones invited those who criticised him to a mono a mono a Waitangi.
He then responded to criticism of NZ First by referring to NZ First’s coalition agreement National and its reference to amending the Waitangj Tribunal’s legislation to “refocus the scope, purpose and nature of its inquiries back to the original intent of that legislation”. He has not specified how but the original legislation did not have the power to investigate historical grievances. Is this what he is referring to?
His comments were very defensive. Clearly NZ First does not want to support Act’s bill, at least now but it does not want to upset its redneck base. They are difficult contradictory goals it is trying to reconcile.
And his concerns about the Waitangi Tribunal legislation is hard to understand. In terms of the treaty one side has breached the terms egregiously, systematically and repeatedly. It has entered into a number of settlement arrangements with the wronged parties that restore some mana but don’t go close to actually returning those parties to their former position. Now the representatives of the party in breach accuse the other side of engaging in over reach. Really?
Being the self proclaimed best speaker of Te Reo in the country and then accusing Tangata Whenua of overreach takes a great deal of nerve.
He has also spoken out against activist judges. This is a bit funny as the Lands case in 1987, described by Justice Cooke who presided as “perhaps as important for the future of our country as any that has come before a New Zealand Court”, was presided over not only by Cooke but also Justices Bisson, Somers, Richardson and Casey. These were all heavyweight and traditionalist Judges and this was the case which showed first signs of deep judicial respect for the Treaty. Calling them activist shows a complete misunderstanding of our judiciary.
At Ratana Luxon also spoke. He read from prepared speech notes and came out with the normal set of platitudes.
Part of it sounded ok. Politik reported him as making these comments:
I believe society is at its strongest when we do just that; businesses, iwi, community groups and the Government, working with you, the hapū, the whānau, the families and individuals, can together achieve so much more than any of us can by ourselves.
As Ngāi Tahu reminded me just last week, no one knows their communities better than iwi.
So why wouldn’t we use the most effective local providers – iwi, or Māori, or community – to reach the people who most need our help so they have a shot at a better future.”
This all sounds very reasonable. But it is hard to reconcile with National’s attacks on Te Reo and it allowing Act’s Treaty Principles Bill to go to select committee.
Because Act’s Treaty Principles Bill will create a circus.
National and NZ First have both said earlier on that they would only support the bill to select committee. More recently their language has become more muted where they confirm support to elect committee but then are evasive about what happens after that.
Attempts to get Luxon to confirm that National will vote against the second reading of the Bill has resulted in him replying that National’s position is clear and then giving a description that suggests its position is anything but.
I would prefer full throated confirmation that National and NZ First will oppose the bill at the second reading stage no matter what. Right now there is the possibility that some sort of watered down yet awful version may get through.
Matthew Hooton has written this complete annihilation of National’s position.
He has accused National of failing to act in good faith with its treaty partner. National’s walk back of its former reasonably clear position on the bill appears to be related to the requirement of the Coalition agreement for the parties to act in good faith. It is a shame that Luxon does not consider that the Government’s obligation of acting in good faith to its treaty partner is as important as keeping Act happy.
Hooton came up with this zinger describing how Luxon had earned the title Te Pirīmia Whakakotahi i Ngā Iwi, the great unifier of the people. Māori have never been this united.
And the Bill is dangerous. Gordon Campbell in this post has a succinct summary about how the Bill would completely undermine te Tiriti if it was passed.
From his post:
Article One: “The New Zealand Government has the right to govern all New Zealanders.” This sounds innocuous. Yet by underlining the primacy of the elected government of the day, it leaves no residual room for co-governance or for a partnership between equals. In asserting the dominance of the government of the day, it subjugates all competing rights, and removes any sense that the concessions made by Māori to the Crown in 1840 and since, were conditional. The tino rangatiratanga rights of sovereignty enshrined in Te Tiriti are at risk of being extinguished.
In doing so, Article One expands the powers of an uncheckable Executive branch. New Zealand is already a fragile unicameral social democracy. Not much is entrenched behind a parliamentary super-majority. The Bill of Rights provisions for instance, can be readily over-ridden by the will of a Parliamentary majority.
In fact, Article One makes Te Tiriti ō Waitangi as flimsy and vulnerable to legislative over-ride as the Bill of Rights. Henceforth, Te Tiriti would merely have a “nice to observe” status, and no longer a “need to observe” status.
Article Two: “The New Zealand government will honour all New Zealanders in the chieftainship of their land and all their property. “ Again, this sounds innocuous. Yet by putting the land and property rights of all New Zealanders on the same legal footing, it would risk denying Māori the ability to claim compensation for prior confiscations, since current land ownership and property rights would be all on the same level playing field, legally speaking. I’m not sure how this would play out in practice, but until we do know more, a “proceed with extreme caution” approach would seem advisable.
Article Three: “All New Zealanders are equal under the law, with the same rights and duties.” This enshrining of mono-cuturalism – we all have the same rights and duties – would erase all forms of Māori customary law. It would also mean that any affirmative action programme undertaken by any future government to address the socio-economic disadvantages confronting Māori (thanks to the legacies of colonialism) would be open to legal challenge.
Māori anger at the proposal is totally justified. Foisting potential changes on Māori via a bill seeking a referendum where Māori will be in the minority is as disrespectful as you can get.
National’s and NZ First’s passive opposition is deeply concerning. There is nothing stopping the select committee from changing the legislation into a slightly less damaging form in the interests of “compromise”. In the absence of a firm commitment to vote the legislation down this must be treated as a possibility.
And this shows how Luxon is completely out of his depth. A wiser leader who understood New Zealand history would realise the depth of opposition the bill would raise and would not have agreed to its being part of the coalition agreement.
And I cannot understand why he would have in a pre long weekend Friday afternoon news dump announce that he was making Seymour Associate Minister of Justice in charge of the Treaty Principles Bill. Appointing Seymour as the Government Spokesperson on this vile abomination of a Bill will heighten concern and opposition.
And the timing of his appointment is terrible. It was just in time for Seymour’s State of the Nation speech where he again had the chance to use his Ministerial amplifier to push the bill.
Act’s Bill should be contrasted to Act’s stance on the Foreshore and Seabed legislation. Back then it opposed the legislation and took the principled position that Māori property rights should be protected and that due process of law should be preserved. If this bill is passed both will be usurped. 2024 Act would have supported the Foreshore and Seabed legislation as long as it stripped out any recourse for Māori for loss of their customary rights.
This will get ugly. As was noted about the right wing attack on the Yes vote in Australia the attacks on the Treaty will be relentless, they will be very well funded and they will be dark.
And Māori and progressives oppose this. What else can us progressives do?
What is the motivation? How about this from an anonymous contributor on Reddit?
I mean I feel like this is exactly how Trump got in in the first place.
Makes a bunch of racist noise about building a wall. Half the population thinks it sounds great, the other thinks it’s an outrageously stupid grift and tells the other half how stupid and thoughtless and braindead you’d have to be to support it. Then they dig their heels in and stop listening to the people calling them idiots.
Add in support from Act’s sponsors and the motivation seems to be clear. Populist racist policy that will improve the standing of a small minor party and where is the downside?
For Luxon there is no upside.
It’s bizarre to grant a coalition partner with just 8% of the vote the ability to rewrite the country’s founding document (without bothering to ask the other signatories), and thus ignite a destructive and ultimately pointless debate. But, that aside, the real question is just how the hell Christopher Luxon got himself into this mess?
We will have 6 months of Springbok Tour type dissent. And unless insanity prevails the proposal will be voted down but the country will be in a worse and more divided state.
Luxon just failed his first big test as Prime Minister. Hopefully the country will not be too damaged from it.
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Once, long before there was Harry and Meghan and Dodi and all those episodes of The Crown, they came to spend some time with us, Charles and Diana. Was there anyone in the world more glamorous than the Princess of Wales?Dazzled as everyone was by their company, the leader of ...1 week ago - The United Right: the FSU’s Continued Efforts to Undermine Academia
The collective right have a problem.The entire foundation for their world view is antiscientific. Their preferred economic strategies have been disproven. Their whole neoliberal model faces accusations of corporate corruption and worsening inequality. Climate change not only definitely exists, its rapid progression demands an immediate and expensive response in order ...1 week ago
- Showing the Americans how to do it
Just ten days ago, South Korea's president attempted a self-coup, declaring martial law and attempting to have opposition MPs murdered or arrested in an effort to seize unconstrained power. The attempt was rapidly defeated by the national assembly voting it down and the people flooding the streets to defend democracy. ...1 week ago
- 2 Men, 1 Haircut
Hi,“What I love about New Zealanders is that sometimes you use these expressions that as Americans we have no idea what those things mean!"I am watching a 30-something year old American ramble on about how different New Zealanders are to Americans. It’s his podcast, and this man is doing a ...1 week ago - Chris Penk’s Hate Parade
What Chris Penk has granted holocaust-denier and equal-opportunity-bigot Candace Owens is not “freedom of speech”. It’s not even really freedom of movement, though that technically is the right she has been granted. What he has given her is permission to perform. Freedom of SpeechIn New Zealand, the right to freedom ...1 week ago - Tell me a story
All those tears on your cheeksJust like deja vu flow nowWhen grandmother speaksSo tell me a story (I'll tell you a story)Spell it out, I can't hear (What do you want to hear?)Why you wear black in the morning?Why there's smoke in the air? Songwriter: Greg Johnson.Mōrena all ☀️Something a ...1 week ago - As Our Power Lessens: Accepted
2024 is now officially my best-ever year for short stories. My 1,850-word dark fantasy piece, As Our Power Lessens, has been accepted for the upcoming solstice edition of Eternal Haunted Summer (https://eternalhauntedsummer.com/), thereby making that six published short stories for the calendar year. As always, see the Bibliography page for ...1 week ago
- National’s Greatest Misses 2023-4
National has only been in power for a year, but everywhere you look, its choices are taking New Zealand a long way backwards. In no particular order, here are the National Government's Top 50 Greatest Misses of its first year in power. ...2 days ago - Release: Minister’s plan for tertiary sector a backwards step
Returning to the model that was failing for most polytechnics and Institutes of Technology is not the answer. ...2 days ago
- Release: National buries 1019 planned homes
It’s been revealed that National has cancelled 60 percent of its housing projects planned before mid-2025 amidst housing woes. ...2 days ago
- Release: Rule-Czar bill a right-wing power grab
The Government is quietly undertaking consultation on the dangerous Regulatory Standards Bill over the Christmas period to avoid too much attention. ...2 days ago
- Release: Why not both? Luxon shuns Waitangi celebrations
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is running away from problems of his own creation, with his decision not to go to Waitangi. ...3 days ago
- Govt’s ‘free speech’ legislation stokes fear, not freedom
The Government’s planned changes to the freedom of speech obligations of universities is little more than a front for stoking the political fires of disinformation and fear, placing teachers and students in the crosshairs. ...3 days ago - Release: Nicola Willis spirals country deeper into recession
The economy shrank 1% this quarter and New Zealand has tumbled into the depths of a recession of Nicola Willis’ making. ...3 days ago
- Release: Hikes for company directors but not ordinary Kiwis
Working people are going backwards while company directors are being given huge pay hikes. ...4 days ago
- ECE no place to cut corners
The Ministry of Regulation’s report into Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Aotearoa raises serious concerns about the possibility of lowering qualification requirements, undermining quality and risking worse outcomes for tamariki, whānau, and kaiako. ...4 days ago
- Release: Strengthening Justice Services for New Zealanders
A Bill to modernise the role of Justices of the Peace (JP), ensuring they remain active in their communities and connected with other JPs, has been put into the ballot. ...4 days ago
- Release: Labour will continue fight against destructive projects
Labour will continue to fight unsustainable and destructive projects that are able to leap-frog environment protection under National’s Fast-track Approvals Bill. ...5 days ago
- Green Government will revoke dodgy fast-track projects
The Green Party has warned that a Green Government will revoke the consents of companies who override environmental protections as part of Fast-Track legislation being passed today. ...5 days ago
- Government for the wealthy keeps pushing austerity
The Green Party says the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update shows how the Government is failing to address the massive social and infrastructure deficits our country faces. ...5 days ago
- Release: Visa changes let migrant workers be paid less
The Government’s latest move to reduce the earnings of migrant workers will not only hurt migrants but it will drive down the wages of Kiwi workers. ...5 days ago
- Release: Nightmare before Christmas for Nicola Willis
With more debt and a larger deficit, Nicola Willis’ reputation is in tatters after her failure to return the Government’s books to surplus. ...5 days ago
- Warning to Fast-Track Applicants – ‘Exploit the Whenua, Face the Consequences’
Te Pāti Māori has this morning issued a stern warning to Fast-Track applicants with interests in mining, pledging to hold them accountable through retrospective liability and to immediately revoke Fast-Track consents under a future Te Pāti Māori government. This warning comes ahead of today’s third reading of the Fast-Track Approvals ...5 days ago
- Release: Govt cuts wages for lowest paid NZers… again
For the second year running, the government has effectively cut wages for the lowest paid workers in New Zealand. ...5 days ago
- Govt’s miserly 1.5% minimum wage will take workers backwards
The Government’s announcement today of a 1.5 per cent increase to minimum wage is another blow for workers, with inflation projected to exceed the increase, meaning it’s a real terms pay reduction for many. ...5 days ago
- Release: Govt shirking responsibility for rate hikes
All the Government has achieved from its announcement today is to continue to push responsibility back on councils for its own lack of action to help bring down skyrocketing rates. ...5 days ago
- Luxon’s ‘localism’ strikes again
The Government has used its final post-Cabinet press conference of the year to punch down on local government without offering any credible solutions to the issues our councils are facing. ...6 days ago
- Release: Govt breaks promise on EV chargers
The Government has failed to keep its promise to ‘super charge’ the EV network, delivering just 292 chargers - less than half of the 670 chargers needed to meet its target. ...6 days ago
- Greens call for end to subsidies for Methanex
The Green Party is calling for the Government to stop subsidising the largest user of the country’s gas supplies, Methanex, following a report highlighting the multi-national’s disproportionate influence on energy prices in Aotearoa. ...6 days ago
- Govt child poverty targets allow for increase in poverty
The Green Party is appalled with the Government’s new child poverty targets that are based on a new ‘persistent poverty’ measure that could be met even with an increase in child poverty. ...1 week ago
- Release: Four weeks annual leave under threat
The Government’s attack on workers continues with news it is scrapping work on the Holidays Act. ...1 week ago
- Govt’s emissions plan for measly 1% reduction
New independent analysis has revealed that the Government’s Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) will reduce emissions by a measly 1 per cent by 2030, failing to set us up for the future and meeting upcoming targets. ...1 week ago
- Greens stand in solidarity with Whakaata Māori on sad day
The loss of 27 kaimahi at Whakaata Māori and the end of its daily news bulletin is a sad day for Māori media and another step backwards for Te Tiriti o Waitangi justice. ...1 week ago
- Sanctions regime to create more hardship for families
Yesterday the Government passed cruel legislation through first reading to establish a new beneficiary sanction regime that will ultimately mean more households cannot afford the basic essentials. ...1 week ago
- Govt gifts renters housing anxiety for Christmas
Today's passing of the Government's Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill–which allows landlords to end tenancies with no reason–ignores the voice of the people and leaves renters in limbo ahead of the festive season. ...1 week ago
- Release: National Party urged to support modern slavery legislation
Labour is urging the Prime Minister to walk the talk and support legislation combating modern slavery. ...1 week ago
- Release: Labour has lost confidence in the Speaker
The Speaker of the New Zealand Parliament made an unprecedented decision on the government amendment to the Fast Track Approvals Bill last night. ...1 week ago
- One year on, still no progress on new ferries
Today’s announcement from the Government on its plan for new ferries throws more uncertainty on the future of the country’s rail network. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Nicola Willis’ smaller ferries will cost more
After wasting a year, Nicola Willis has delivered a worse deal for the Cook Strait ferries that will end up being more expensive and take longer to arrive. ...2 weeks ago
- Bill to sanction unlawful occupation of Palestine
Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick has today launched a Member’s Bill to sanction Israel for its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as the All Out For Gaza rally reaches Parliament. ...2 weeks ago
- Release: Labour fully supports greyhound racing ban
The Government has done the right thing in moving to ban greyhound racing. ...2 weeks ago
- Greyhound racing industry ban marks new era for animal welfare
After years of advocacy, the Green Party is very happy to hear the Government has listened to our collective voices and announced the closure of the greyhound racing industry, by 1 August 2026. ...2 weeks ago
- Rangatahi voices must be centred in Government’s Relationship and Sexuality Education refresh
In response to a new report from ERO, the Government has acknowledged the urgent need for consistency across the curriculum for Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. ...2 weeks ago
- Govt introduces archaic anti-worker legislation
The Green Party is appalled at the Government introducing legislation that will make it easier to penalise workers fighting for better pay and conditions. ...2 weeks ago
- Winston Peters – Kinleith Mill Speech
Thank you for the invitation to speak with you tonight on behalf of the political party I belong to - which is New Zealand First. As we have heard before this evening the Kinleith Mill is proposing to reduce operations by focusing on pulp and discontinuing “lossmaking paper production”. They say that they are currently consulting on the plan to permanently shut ...2 weeks ago - Swarbrick calls on Auckland Mayor to end delay of revival of St James Theatre
Auckland Central MP, Chlöe Swarbrick, has written to Mayor Wayne Brown requesting he stop the unnecessary delays on St James Theatre’s restoration. ...2 weeks ago
- He Ara Anamata: Greens launch Emissions Reduction Plan
Today, the Green Party of Aotearoa proudly unveils its new Emissions Reduction Plan–He Ara Anamata–a blueprint reimagining our collective future. ...2 weeks ago
- Internationally-trained doctors jump at chance to boost health workforce
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says Health New Zealand will move swiftly to support dozens of internationally-trained doctors already in New Zealand on their journey to employment here, after a tripling of sought-after examination places. “The Medical Council has delivered great news for hardworking overseas doctors who want to contribute ...6 hours ago - PM appoints business leader to APEC Business Advisory Council
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has appointed Sarah Ottrey to the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC). “At my first APEC Summit in Lima, I experienced firsthand the role that ABAC plays in guaranteeing political leaders hear the voice of business,” Mr Luxon says. “New Zealand’s ABAC representatives are very well respected and ...2 days ago
- New intelligence oversight appointments
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced four appointments to New Zealand’s intelligence oversight functions. The Honourable Robert Dobson KC has been appointed Chief Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants, and the Honourable Brendan Brown KC has been appointed as a Commissioner of Intelligence Warrants. The appointments of Hon Robert Dobson and Hon ...2 days ago
- New housing developments able to progress more quickly
Improvements in the average time it takes to process survey and title applications means housing developments can progress more quickly, Minister for Land Information Chris Penk says. “The government is resolutely focused on improving the building and construction pipeline,” Mr Penk says. “Applications to issue titles and subdivide land are ...2 days ago
- Actions to speed up air travel delivering results
The Government’s measures to reduce airport wait times, and better transparency around flight disruptions is delivering encouraging early results for passengers ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Improving the efficiency of air travel is a priority for the Government to give passengers a smoother, more reliable ...2 days ago
- Ending contracted emergency housing in Rotorua
The Government today announced the intended closure of the Apollo Hotel as Contracted Emergency Housing (CEH) in Rotorua, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says. This follows a 30 per cent reduction in the number of households in CEH in Rotorua since National came into Government. “Our focus is on ending CEH in the Whakarewarewa area starting ...2 days ago
- Vocational education and training decisions support return to regions
The Government will reshape vocational education and training to return decision making to regions and enable greater industry input into work-based learning Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds says. “The redesigned system will better meet the needs of learners, industry, and the economy. It includes re-establishing regional polytechnics that ...2 days ago
- Reducing the environmental impact of synthetic refrigerants
The Government is taking action to better manage synthetic refrigerants and reduce emissions caused by greenhouse gases found in heating and cooling products, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says. “Regulations will be drafted to support a product stewardship scheme for synthetic refrigerants, Ms. Simmonds says. “Synthetic refrigerants are found in a ...2 days ago
- Ngāruawāhia section of Waikato Expressway back to 4 lanes for Christmas
People travelling on State Highway 1 north of Hamilton will be relieved that remedial works and safety improvements on the Ngāruawāhia section of the Waikato Expressway were finished today, with all lanes now open to traffic, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“I would like to acknowledge the patience of road users ...2 days ago
- Appointments to the ENZ board
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds, has announced a new appointment to the board of Education New Zealand (ENZ). Dr Erik Lithander has been appointed as a new member of the ENZ board for a three-year term until 30 January 2028. “I would like to welcome Dr Erik Lithander to the ...3 days ago
- Government to celebrate Waitangi Day around NZ
The Government will have senior representatives at Waitangi Day events around the country, including at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, but next year Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has chosen to take part in celebrations elsewhere. “It has always been my intention to celebrate Waitangi Day around the country with different ...3 days ago
- More gangs added to Gangs Act list
Two more criminal gangs will be subject to the raft of laws passed by the Coalition Government that give Police more powers to disrupt gang activity, and the intimidation they impose in our communities, Police Minister Mark Mitchell says. Following an Order passed by Cabinet, from 3 February 2025 the ...3 days ago
- Judicial appointment announced
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Justice Christian Whata as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Whata’s appointment as a Judge of the Court of Appeal will take effect on 1 August 2025 and fill a vacancy created by the retirement of Hon Justice David Goddard on ...3 days ago
- GDP data highlights importance of growth
The latest economic figures highlight the importance of the steps the Government has taken to restore respect for taxpayers’ money and drive economic growth, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. Data released today by Stats NZ shows Gross Domestic Product fell 1 per cent in the September quarter. “Treasury and most ...3 days ago
- Strengthening Free Speech in Universities
Tertiary Education and Skills Minister Penny Simmonds and Associate Minister of Education David Seymour today announced legislation changes to strengthen freedom of speech obligations on universities. “Freedom of speech is fundamental to the concept of academic freedom and there is concern that universities seem to be taking a more risk-averse ...3 days ago
- Launch of Emergency Cellular Priority Service
Police Minister, Mark Mitchell, and Internal Affairs Minister, Brooke van Velden, today launched a further Public Safety Network cellular service that alongside last year’s Cellular Roaming roll-out, puts globally-leading cellular communications capability into the hands of our emergency responders. The Public Safety Network’s new Cellular Priority service means Police, Wellington ...3 days ago
- Minister reopens Mangamuka Gorge
State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge has officially reopened today, providing a critical link for Northlanders and offering much-needed relief ahead of the busy summer period, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.“The Mangamuka Gorge is a vital route for Northland, carrying around 1,300 vehicles per day and connecting the Far ...3 days ago
- Funding confirmed for second Ashburton Bridge
The Government has welcomed decisions by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Ashburton District Council confirming funding to boost resilience in the Canterbury region, with construction on a second Ashburton Bridge expected to begin in 2026, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. “Delivering a second Ashburton Bridge to improve resilience and ...3 days ago
- Government boosts support for avian influenza response
The Government is backing the response into high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Otago, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says. “Cabinet has approved new funding of $20 million to enable MPI to meet unbudgeted ongoing expenses associated with the H7N6 response including rigorous scientific testing of samples at the enhanced PC3 ...3 days ago
- Levelling the playing field for media advertising
Legislation that will repeal all advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays has passed through first reading in Parliament today, Media Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “As a growing share of audiences get their news and entertainment from streaming services, these restrictions have become increasingly redundant. New Zealand on ...4 days ago
- Inspector-General of Defence appointed
Today the House agreed to Brendan Horsley being appointed Inspector-General of Defence, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “Mr Horsley’s experience will be invaluable in overseeing the establishment of the new office and its support networks. “He is currently Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, having held that role since June 2020. ...4 days ago
- Fire and Emergency New Zealand final levy rates confirmed
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government has agreed to the final regulations for the levy on insurance contracts that will fund Fire and Emergency New Zealand from July 2026. “Earlier this year the Government agreed to a 2.2 percent increase to the rate of levy. Fire ...4 days ago
- More AML relief on the way for Kiwi businesses
The Government is delivering regulatory relief for New Zealand businesses through changes to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act. “The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill, which was introduced today, is the second Bill – the other being the Statutes Amendment Bill - that ...4 days ago
- Hawke’s Bay Expressway moving at pace
Transport Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed further progress on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS), with the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) Board approving funding for the detailed design of Stage 1, paving the way for main works construction to begin in late 2025.“The Government is moving at ...4 days ago
- Government seeks partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned-land
The Government today released a request for information (RFI) to seeking interest in partnerships to plant trees on Crown-owned land with low farming and conservation value (excluding National Parks) Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced. “Planting trees on Crown-owned land will drive economic growth by creating more forestry jobs in our regions, providing more wood ...4 days ago
- Wide ranging legislation to make justice system more efficient
Court timeliness, access to justice, and improving the quality of existing regulation are the focus of a series of law changes introduced to Parliament today by Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee. The three Bills in the Regulatory Systems (Justice) Amendment Bill package each improve a different part of the ...4 days ago
- Diverse skills in community trust appointments
A total of 41 appointments and reappointments have been made to the 12 community trusts around New Zealand that serve their regions, Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says. “These trusts, and the communities they serve from the Far North to the deep south, will benefit from the rich experience, knowledge, ...4 days ago
- Torture redress for survivors of the Lake Alice Unit
The Government has confirmed how it will provide redress to survivors who were tortured at the Lake Alice Psychiatric Hospital Child and Adolescent Unit (the Lake Alice Unit). “The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care found that many of the 362 children who went through the Lake Alice Unit between 1972 and ...4 days ago
- A busy year in the House
It has been a busy, productive year in the House as the coalition Government works hard to get New Zealand back on track, Leader of the House Chris Bishop says. “This Government promised to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and reduce the cost of living. Our record this ...4 days ago
- Consultation opens on working with engineered stone
“Accelerated silicosis is an emerging occupational disease caused by unsafe work such as engineered stone benchtops. I am running a standalone consultation on engineered stone to understand what the industry is currently doing to manage the risks, and whether further regulatory intervention is needed,” says Workplace Relations and Safety Minister ...4 days ago
- Greater reporting on Treaty settlement commitments
Mehemea he pai mō te tangata, mahia – if it’s good for the people, get on with it. Enhanced reporting on the public sector’s delivery of Treaty settlement commitments will help improve outcomes for Māori and all New Zealanders, Māori Crown Relations Minister Tama Potaka says. Compiled together for the ...4 days ago
- New appointments to the Charities Registration Board
Mr Roger Holmes Miller and Ms Tarita Hutchinson have been appointed to the Charities Registration Board, Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Louise Upston says. “I would like to welcome the new members joining the Charities Registration Board. “The appointment of Ms Hutchinson and Mr Miller will strengthen the Board’s capacity ...4 days ago
- Building consent processing times improve
More building consent and code compliance applications are being processed within the statutory timeframe since the Government required councils to submit quarterly data, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “In the midst of a housing shortage we need to look at every step of the build process for efficiencies ...4 days ago
- Faster access to support through Innovation Fund
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey is proud to announce the first three recipients of the Government’s $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund which will enable more Kiwis faster access to mental health and addiction support. “This fund is part of the Government’s commitment to investing in ...4 days ago
- New Zealand to assist Vanuatu on earthquake response
New Zealand is providing Vanuatu assistance following yesterday's devastating earthquake, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. "Vanuatu is a member of our Pacific family and we are supporting it in this time of acute need," Mr Peters says. "Our thoughts are with the people of Vanuatu, and we will be ...4 days ago
- Government takes steps to reduce card fees for Kiwis
The Government welcomes the Commerce Commission’s plan to reduce card fees for Kiwis by an estimated $260 million a year, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.“The Government is relentlessly focused on reducing the cost of living, so Kiwis can keep more of their hard-earned income and live a ...4 days ago
- Review recommends ECE regulation shakeup
Regulation Minister David Seymour has welcomed the Early Childhood Education (ECE) regulatory review report, the first major report from the Ministry for Regulation. The report makes 15 recommendations to modernise and simplify regulations across ECE so services can get on with what they do best – providing safe, high-quality care ...4 days ago
- Offshore Renewable Energy Bill passes first reading
The Government‘s Offshore Renewable Energy Bill to create a new regulatory regime that will enable firms to construct offshore wind generation has passed its first reading in Parliament, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.“New Zealand currently does not have a regulatory regime for offshore renewable energy as the previous government failed ...5 days ago
- Local Government (Water Services) Bill passes first reading
Legislation to enable new water service delivery models that will drive critical investment in infrastructure has passed its first reading in Parliament, marking a significant step towards the delivery of Local Water Done Well, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly say.“Councils and voters ...5 days ago
- Gene Technology Bill passes first reading
New Zealand is one step closer to reaping the benefits of gene technology with the passing of the first reading of the Gene Technology Bill, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins says. "This legislation will end New Zealand's near 30-year ban on gene technology outside the lab and is ...5 days ago
- Signs of the hīkoi: More than just ‘words on cardboard’
The placards seen at the Hīkoi mō Te Tiriti conveyed "huge kōrero with immediacy", expert says: "People know the power of the word." ...2 hours ago - A final Ode to .. King Luxon
Cosmic CatastropheThe year draws to a close.King Luxon has grown tired of the long eveningsListening to the dreary squabbling of his Triumvirate.He strolls up to the top floor of the PalaceTo consult with his Astronomer Royal.The Royal Telescope scans the skies,And King Luxon stares up into the heavensFrom the terrestrial ...10 hours ago - A hater and an enthusiast review The Royal Free by Carl Shuker
Spinoff editor Mad Chapman and books editor Claire Mabey debate Carl Shuker’s new novel about… an editor. Claire: Hello Mad, you just finished The Royal Free – overall impressions? Mad: Hi Claire, I literally just put the book down and I would have to say my immediate impression is ...11 hours ago - Survive to 25 (December, that is)
Christmas and its buildup are often lonely, hard and full of unreasonable expectations. Here’s how to make it to Jesus’s birthday and find the little bit of joy we all deserve. Have you found this year relentless? Has the latest Apple update “fucked up your life”? Have you lost two ...11 hours ago
- All I want for Christmas is modern day slavery legislation
Despite overwhelming public and corporate support, the government has stalled progress on a modern day slavery law. That puts us behind other countries – and makes Christmas a time of tragedy rather than joy, argues Shanti Mathias. Picture the scene on Christmas Day. Everyone replete with nice things to eat, ...11 hours ago
- Israeli-American historian describes attacks on Gaza as ‘war of annihilation’
Asia Pacific Report “It looks like Hiroshima. It looks like Germany at the end of World War Two,” says an Israeli-American historian and professor of holocaust and genocide studies at Brown University about the horrifying reality of Gaza. Professor Omer Bartov, has described Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza as an ...14 hours ago - NZ govt plans to make ‘heavy handed’ change to free speech rules for universities
The New Zealand government coalition is tweaking university regulations to curb what it says is an increasingly “risk-averse approach” to free speech. The proposed changes will set clear expectations on how universities should approach freedom of speech issues. Each university will then have to adopt a “freedom of speech statement” ...14 hours ago
- Caitlin Johnstone: Where does the aggression really begin?
Report by Dr David Robie – Café Pacific. – COMMENTARY: By Caitlin Johnstone New York prosecutors have charged Luigi Mangione with “murder as an act of terrorism” in his alleged shooting of health insurance CEO Brian Thompson earlier this month. This news comes out at the same time as ...17 hours ago
- OECD Report Highlights That More Is Needed
This report reflects that gap in our dealings overseas, and it shows that legislators, the public sector and businesses need to walk the talk. ...1 day ago - Government quietly scraps waste minimisation policies
The government has quietly cancelled plans to improve recycling and roll out a kerbside food scraps composting scheme. ...1 day ago
- MEAA welcomes News MAP funding ‘leg up’ for Australian journalism
Pacific Media Watch The union for Australian journalists has welcomed the delivery by the federal government of more than $150 million to support the sustainability of public interest journalism over the next four years. Combined with the announcement of the revamped News Bargaining Initiative, this could result in up to ...1 day ago
- Transmission Gully partnership breakdown will not hurt future public-private partnerships, Infrastru...
The roads partnership unravelled under a confidential settlement this week, meaning NZTA will now finish off what it had said was incomplete work. ...1 day ago
- Funding cuts to charity particularly felt over Christmas period
The number of people seeking help from Lifeline is expected to increase by 10 to 20 percent over Christmas. ...1 day ago
- Nelson Hospital conditions ‘unbearable’ – staff
One worker says the building is decrepit and falling down around them. ...1 day ago
- Early-onset dementia under the microscope
Comment: If we say the word ‘dementia’, many will picture an older person struggling to remember the names of their loved ones, maybe a grandparent living out their final years in an aged care facility. Dementia can also occur in people younger than 65, but it can take time before ...1 day ago
- Keeping the pirates at bay: Should the Australian ‘Blocking Order’ case prompt a discussion in N...
Piracy is a reality of modern life – but copyright law has struggled to play catch-up for as long as the entertainment industry has existed. As far back as 1988, the House of Lords criticised copyright law’s conflict with the reality of human behaviour in the context of burning cassette ...1 day ago
- The Secret Diary of .. Luxon at Xmas
MONDAY“Merry Xmas, and praise the Lord,” said Sheriff Luxon, and smiled for the camera. There was a flash of smoke when the shutter pressed down on the magnesium powder. The sheriff had arranged for a photographer from the Dodge Gazette to attend a ceremony where he handed out food parcels to ...1 day ago
- Stand by for cricket’s Smash Palace
It’s a little under two months since the White Ferns shocked the cricketing world, deservedly taking home the T20 World Cup. Since then the trophy has had a tour around the country, five of the squad have played in the WBBL in Australia while most others have returned to domestic ...1 day ago
- ‘We were as famous as Tom Cruise’: Craig Parker on 90s Shortland St fandom
As he makes a surprise return to Shortland Street, actor Craig Parker takes us through his life in television. Craig Parker has been a fixture on television in Aotearoa for nearly four decades. He had starring roles in iconic local series like Gloss, Mercy Peak and Diplomatic Immunity, featured in ...1 day ago
- ‘I prioritise the mission, not my health’: Adam McGrath’s perfect weekend playlist
The Ōtautahi musician shares the 10 tracks he loves to spin, including the folk classic that cured him of a ‘case of the give-ups’. When singer-songwriter Adam McGrath returns to Kumeu’s Auckland Folk Festival from January 24-27, he’s not planning on simply idling his way through – he wants the late ...1 day ago
- The rescue dog bringing joy to Christchurch retirement homes
Alex Casey spends an afternoon on the job with River, the rescue dog on a mission to spread joy to Ōtautahi rest homes. Almost everyone says it is never enough time. But River the rescue dog, a jet black huntaway border collie cross, has to keep a tight pace to ...1 day ago
- Fiji pro-Palestine nativity scene exposes Gaza as ‘hell on earth’ at Christmas
Asia Pacific Report Fiji activists have recreated the nativity scene at a solidarity for Palestine gathering in Fiji’s capital Suva just days before Christmas. The Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre and Fijians for Palestine Solidarity Network recreated the scene at the FWCC compound — a baby Jesus figurine lies amidst the ...2 days ago
- Vanuatu quake: ‘Our shop was flattened like a deck of cards’
By 1News Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver and 1News reporters A number of Kiwis have been successfully evacuated from Vanuatu after a devastating earthquake shook the Pacific island nation earlier this week. The death toll was still unclear, though at least 14 people were killed according to an earlier statement from ...2 days ago
- How diplomats have broken the law in NZ – and what happened next
A handful of foreign diplomats have misbehaved during their time here - and not all of them have been brought to justice. ...2 days ago
- Swim schools report sinking enrolments as downturn deepens
Being able to swim is often considered a life skill, but tough economic times are forcing many families to pull their children out of lessons. ...2 days ago
- ‘There will be deaths because of this’ – Warning over Health NZ IT cuts
A West Coast IT worker is warning patients will die as Health New Zealand aims to slash its data and digital staff. ...2 days ago
- Polytech sales possible but unlikely when Te Pūkenga disestablished – minister
In a surprise move, the sale of polytechnics will be on the table when the national institute of technology Te Pūkenga is disestablished. ...2 days ago
- Parliament’s final sitting day an insight into party factions
On Parliament's last day of the year, there was a rare glimpse of the factions within the major parties. ...2 days ago
- Former Labour MP, North Shore mayor Ann Hartley dies
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Great post Micky. Looks like a less than one term government.
Trump may get back in because of the divisions that he created. (Polls indicate this.)
Luxon may get back in because of the division that he helped create
If Luxon was to fall over in some way over the next few years. Would that put Peters or Seymour in the drivers seat? (As deputies ) Or would a new PM come out of National? Asking for a friend.
It is a National-led government who have 38.5% of the overall vote as opposed to 15% (NZF and ACT together) so the new PM would be chosen by National. It is unlikely they would choose someone from another political party.
Talking of percentages, the difference between the Nat/ACT vote (46.7%) and the Lab/Green vote (38.65) is only 8%. I leave out NZF because they chose pre-election to be unaligned.
That gives Labour and the Greens together leverage when it comes to fighting this referendum proposal and all the awful consequences that will flow from it.
From day one, Luxon showed he was, and never will be, prime ministerial material. To appoint an extreme right racist/fascist (take your pick) to be an Associate Justice minister in charge of Treaty negotiations says it all!
Btw mickysavage, you've done it again. A very important post.
"From day one, Luxon showed he was, and never will be, prime ministerial material"
Spot on Anne, couldn't agree more. Do you remember that dear old National supporter with the blue rinsed hair back in 2020 saying on the 6pm news "I just wish Jacinda was leader of the National party"…..the irony being that if she was, Jacinda would most likely still be PM.
Well done Micky.
We all knew deep down that this coalition government would be a classic case of the tail wagging the dog. Luxon would be the poster boy, doing nothing and signifying nothing other than what his two junior partners, each of whom thinks he is God's gift to New Zealand, order him.
One can only imagine what kind of shady dealing went on in the coalition talks, almost none of which has been made public and will never be made public because decent non-conspiracy theorist New Zealanders would be pretty sick if they knew.
The only hope for this country is that Seymour and Peters' natural antipathy will gradually reassert itself and make life hell for Luxon so much that the coalition disintegrates and a snap election is called.
Still waiting for Labour to declare its hand. Does it have more to lose by alienating tangata whenua or racist pakeha? Of course, a principled position would be nice, but we cannot expect anything of the sort from neoliberal Labour.
Labour's recent history (5th/6th Labour(-led) govts) includes principled progressive policy (Closing the Gaps; Co-governance), followed by politically pragmatic dialing back in response to a conservative (status quo) and/or racist public backlash.
I hope the Grahams in our parliament will prevail over the Brashs/Seymours.
It's astonishing, really. Seymour's made no secret that he thinks the law should recognise no obligations of the govt specifically to Māori, he's put forward legislation to effect that via treaty "principles" that make no mention of Māori, he didn't bother consulting with them as treaty partner before putting that legislation forward, and yet he has legions of fanboys peddling his bullshit that it's just "clarifying" the principles and it's a "debate."
Luxon knows all this as well as we do – he called it (overly diplomatically, in my opinion) "divisive and unhelpful." Now he's not ruling out supporting "divisive and unhelpful" legislation into law. Top leadership, chief.
He compares getting the bill through parliament to the euthanasia legislation – before the majority affirm it at a referendum.
He basically wants to enable a majority to diminish the Treaty partner to assimilated status and otherwise block UNDRIP indigenous people status – which will create an issue for us internationally.
A legal form of ethnic cleansing of an indigenous peoples rights and standing, without their consent.
"He basically wants to enable a majority to diminish the Treaty partner to assimilated status…"
I think this is it in a nutshell. His (my, for that matter) ethnic group is the overwhelming majority. Would he be so keen on a "debate" and a referendum if Māori were the overwhelming majority? Would he fuck.
I welcome the debate. Nothing wrong with that, and the nation want it. If it were put before the people today. Acts bill would pass. My view is that this shoud happen. The courts ‘interpretation’ of the treaty needs to be thrown out, and the meaning applied word for word. That is what ACT and a majority of people want. There is no way that a court should really have been able to determine or interpret what the people signing this were thinking at the time and somehow make rules and laws around an interpretation. Like any other contractual document, it is what it is, and it’s meaning should be what it says, not someone’s interpretation. My view is this will happen as a result of ACTs proposed bill, and if it does not, the a citizens initiated referendum will materialise. Either way, I believe a referendum will come to pass on this issue.
things like governance and a gradual shift over time toward more maori power and decision making is a threat to the political/economic structure ACT and their historical supporters, eg Brash. their halcyon days were premised on a market approach that locked in white older male power and privilege. Equality and all ACTs weasel words, once all is said and done, for them equates to a free market that privileges those with power and money.
"… and yet he has legions of fanboys peddling his bullshit that it's just "clarifying" the principles and it's a "debate.""
QFT – thanks, PM.
Seymour's argument is founded upon dishonesty and bad faith; he's following the playbook established by the NO vote in the Voice to Australia referendum. Backed by the Atlas Network and wealthy Australian elites to spread misinformation and fear.
The outcome of this discourse is a bitter and divided society that's distracted by race issues and law & order; making it easier for elites to pilfer natural resources and steal public assets.
There are some very disturbing racist fuckwits on social media who are agitating for civil war and can't wait to start killing
"Seymour's argument is founded upon dishonesty and bad faith; he's following the playbook established by the NO vote in the Voice to Australia referendum. Backed by the Atlas Network and wealthy Australian elites to spread misinformation and fear. "
Perfect summation, roblogic, imo.
Don’t like their chances Robologic, I believe a considerable number of young Māori have done their time in the Special Forces and know how to go about their business quietly and efficiently.
“Because Luxon is such a weak Prime Minister, he is being railroaded by a far smarter David Seymour and out played by a far more cunning Winston.”
Bomber sums up the situation quite nicely!
https://thedailyblog.co.nz/2024/01/29/mediawatch-when-even-heather-du-plessis-allan-doesnt-buy-nationals-anti-maori-race-baiting/
"For the ACT leader, the campaigning last year did not end – it was but a prelude.
"Seymour understands that the stability of the current coalition government is only a veneer. Quietly simmering not far beneath the surface is an unresolved volatility as the leaders of ACT and NZ First struggle for pre-eminence as the Major Partner to National."
Frank has got the measure of the CoC! And he’s right, Seymour is still campaigning – hence the State of the Nation Speech!
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzGwJvjrNGsjmMwhtNpZKFNtRRhW
Seymour is warming everyone up for a Brexit type roadshow to promote a republic…he wants to be El Presidente!
Wouldn't surprise me. He is after all a narcissistic sociopath who is following the Trump playbook.
We need a list of businesses which supported Act and National, and to some degree NZ First. We need to avoid business with them where we can. It will send a message.
Commercial Landlords are pressuring people to return to their buildings. Resist where you can, especially if they are supporters of the right.
Approach your local iwi, ask how you can make a difference in this fight. We can make a difference that David and mates may not expect… Oh and do what King Te Huetia suggested. Carry ourselves in a spirit of "Manaaki i te katoa."
Good idea Patricia, maybe John Campbell could do some investigative journalism and expose the rotten apples floating in the barrel…….or maybe they have sunk to the bottom and the barrel needs draining…..
Just realised how Trumpian that sounds
Do not ignore the NZF support for a review of the Waitangi Tribunal and more.
The Treaty principles bill might just become the diversion, to gather legitimacy for other moves by National and NZ First.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/waitangi-tribunal-review-changing-role-set-to-come-under-scrutiny-by-new-government/GJ3OXYYUOZGFLGXRBLQYFY4NUM/
The mandate of National and Act is especially questionable given their murky millionaire backers and servitude to big business ahead of democracy.
And they have the temerity to call co-governance undemocratic.
What is profoundly undemocratic is to spout misleading nonsense and do back room deals with tobacco companies that were nowhere published in the policies or ad campaigns. I expect it's just the start of a widespread campaign to gaslight the people of Aotearoa while slashing and burning and selling out.
Let's not kid ourselves, Luxton would love the race debate distraction, the perfect dead-cat strategy.
[Please don’t change user names and from now on stick to the other approved name here, thanks – Incognito]
Mod note
Simon Wilson's column in the Herald is paywalled (I've read the print version) but it's worth a read.
In short, he writes an alternative Luxon speech that a National PM could deliver.
In the end, it is the National party and its wiser heads that will need to rein Luxon in.