Well here is a chance for these boys to develop some resilience, which is simply what we gain out of conquering adversity. Rather than crying about it, get off social media and get on with improving your rugby. What other people think does not matter. Your coaches and teachers should be using this as growth opportunity. Haka is overdone, what counts is winning every week, at your chosen sport, or taking defeat on the chin and enjoying the company of your friends and team mates.
Ardern was going there to make another plea for the refugees and a photo op. But her narrative was shut down by Winston, the wily old fox. She came out all unicorns and rainbows, with another obfuscation and a beautiful smile - nothing to see here. - Shes a great actress I ll give her that. Wait til she gets home, the media and her party will want an explanation for throwing Lees Galloway under the bus. Seems everyone agrees with Winston, and this will be good for his ratings. Gemma Lynch could barely hide her disgust on Newshub tonight. No big refugees announcement and photo opp. Never mind, we have enough of our own needy people to look after. Charity begins at home.
Winston First take the reins and appears to be on suicide mission. Suing your own govt can only go badly from a PR perspective. We can Expect to see NZF ratings tank even further.
Rubbish to their reason. Of course they knew who the booking was for. The trolls and bullies have been hard at it, some from on high. Would love to find they actually have another venue booked and this is a red herring. Would not attend, not a fan of extremism, however nor am I a fan of suppressing comments because they are not politically correct enough for some people.
The intolerable pressure Curran was under was created by her own incompetence. She was so obviously out of her depth. Her comment I am only human at the beginning of her statement smacked of self pity. A more fitting comment would have been...I have had the incredible privilege of serving as a Minister in this Labour Government, but was not up to the task. I am sorry I have let people down. Good riddance to this trougher, who will not be gone for two more years.
Pleased to hear attendance will be up for Brashs speech at Auckland Uni. The left, led by Massey VC, have given oxygen to this event. She is so wrong to use her bias, and to quote Garner (emotions) to make decisions, rather than objectivity based on actual knowledge of what the subject matter was. She should apologise and step down. She is not worthy of this position.
Winston for all his faults is a good foreign minister and can do the job perfectly well for NZ. What he will not be doing is virtue signalling on refugees and that is why Ardern is high tailing it up there, to have an open and honest public conversation/argument with Winston on NZs stance on refugees. She will move heaven and earth to get her photo calls with some refugees and take the limelight off that pesky Deputy Prime Minister and his stupid utterances on the reality of bringing refugees into a country that has enough troubles of its own in the poverty department. Get your pop corn ready folks!
One Australian correspondent says it wont happen. PM Morrison is trying to drum up support amongst liberals for his party in the Wentworth bi -election this weekend. Come Sunday he will have forgotten about it. One thing we have in our favour, Winston Peters is the real boss of us, and he will stop it happening if the fairy princess tries any more virtue signalling. He does not support economic migrants who have jumped the queue and landed in Nauru, coming here. Peters for all his faults (and there are many) is a sobering influence on this ridiculous govt led by an airhead.
Sure the PM has a baby. We dont really care. What we do care about is if it affects her ability to do her job and make rational decisions. It appears it does. She is not in the fish and chip shop now! Bigger things are at stake. Nuff said
Its the worse refereeing ever if your favourite loses -suck it up Serena. Congratulations to Naomi Osaka the new Womens US Open winner. Naomi kept her cool, and succeeded.
Sure Shane. Also you would like to win a seat up north, (you and Winston) in case you are still below 5% next election. So helps to throw a bit of money around.
Could this be the reason you have cancelled your media engagements this week PM? And of course the upcoming announcement at 4pm today, leaked to National, that Meka Waitiri has kept her job. It would be embarrassing to have to explain them both. One obfuscation after another!
Amazing result for National given poll was taken during worst week ever in nationals history. Even Soper saying hard to believe they have only dropped 3 points. Labour in front for first time, not surprising. Obviously those polled thought like me, it isnt the party imploding just one rogue MP going ballistic. Bridges not looking good though.
Clare Curran is not to be trusted. She is a special brand of stupid. Yet the PM says she takes her word that Sky TV was not discussed at the meeting, despite there being no one else at the meeting to verify this and no meeting notes. Vacuous much, PM? However, fortunately, Jacinda has got the basics right!! She got to make the Sunday papers smiling winningly into the All Black captains eyes.
Ross is burning down the village and the temple as he leaves. He wanted this to be a memorable occasion. He got that all right! Think that Bridges will be stronger as a result. Ross saved Bridges the trouble of having to fire him. Envy was strong in this Howick MP. and has been the death of his political career. He will not win Botany as an Independent. National will retain it.
I believe Derek thinks the worse part of all of this is the govt lack of professionalism in the way they handled their stuff up. Proving they are rank amateurs. We all know how soul destroying it is to be ignored after applying for a job. Well that is what they did to Derek. Love the timing of the release to rain perfectly on the PMs UN parade.
Very complimentary Tracey, but we know the truth. Ardern has confidence in Lees Galloway, but not the decision (er Jacinda, HE MADE IT!) there is no arguing with stupid.
Reducing emissions is more important than ensuring NZers have access to electricity for the future. Another example of this virtue signalling govts propensity to make policy on the fly and figure out the details later. Well see how that works out!!!
Love Handleys timing with the release of this very helpful information which the Government has been unable to provide for the NZ taxpayer, right when Ardern wants maximum positive coverage with her UN appearance. Slam dunk Derek!Her comment to him in an email that she would see if the govt had anything which could suit him (wtte) is a huge pointer to her helping him get a job. Who else got that email? Did she communicate with the other applicants? Of course not. Definite collusion by Ardern.
I do like Bridges and his ventriloquist comment was very funny and spot on. The slur from Hipkins is wrong as Bridges was referring to Robertsons whispering information to not just Ardern, but hapless Kelvin and others close by when they need stats etc,they do not have at their fingertips. This has turned out to be a good week for National as Mallard is implementing an investigation over the leaked info, as Bridges has requested. It has raised his profile. He is acting in a more forthright way. He is a nice guy but needs to inject a bit of of mongrel into his style to get the attention, as he is dealing with a pack of mongrels in govt.!!
None of us is responsible for Winstons mess. The winning party got 10 more seats, compared to 2nd place Labour, at the last election. Clearly a mandate from the people of NZ they wanted National. Winston chose to go with the losers, due to his HUNGER FOR UTU AND POWER and knowing vacuous Jacinda could be walked all over.
Agree Shane. And the kid actor in it is a bit over done. We could do with a holiday from him. Air NZ and their Ad agency need to get over themselves. Treating safety in such a trivial manner is just not on. They have definitely become too cute for their own good. Producing a safety video which instructs and entertains for a very broad audience, with a sky is the limit budget. How hard can it be?
This has been a great week for bringing up an important subject: free speech. Completely agree with Departeds comment the silence from the media has been deafening on response to Arderns damning of the Canadians, and their right to express their views. If it were Key or English they would be right in there, asking for elaboration. The media (mainly left wing) are singing from the same song book as the PM. Ardern quickly changed her stance on Brashs Massey banning. This was out of expediency, when she saw which way the wind was blowing. She is not a great leader. Her stance is: I have principles and if you dont like them, I have others. Plus being led by the nose by Winston doesnt help. This has been clearly illustrated in the Wally Haumaha debacle.
The problems is Mallard does not make the PM and Ministers answer questions. And it gets absurd when they are allowed to say a pre prepared answer each time, with out even addressing the question. This has been particularly marked lately where so many mistakes and cover ups have been going on but the govt is protected by a speaker who does not force them to answer.The worse thing is Peters uses the time like comedy hour, avoiding questions and making rude comment about the opposition and gets loud guffaws from his specially trained monkeys on his side. They probably know it is more than their life is worth not to laugh.
I do like the new name Tim has coined for this govt. It was always going to happen when this pure?? form of MMP took flight. When you have a deeply conservative older man like Winston and a flighty virtue signalling, naive inexperienced younger woman desperate for power at any cost you have a coalition formed through expediency. There were always going to be major road blocks. I dont support this three headed hydra, but am just glad they have Winston, the adult, there to stop them bringing in radical laws. Of course Winston knew all this drama could be prevented by choosing National as they think similarly to him on most issues. There would be less drama more sensible policy decision making and less anxiety for NZers. But that was not on his mind when he made the stupidest decision ever in NZ history based on his hunger for utu and power.
Politicizing the baby will back fire on her, UNLESS, she starts getting results. Like if her first sermon from the mount results in the reversal of business confidence, then she will be flavour of the month. I believe it is Ardern (control freak) that has given Mallard the order about no press intrusion of the baby within Parliament. The only problem with that is the puff pieces will go on unabated for mags, and her publicists will continue working overtime on overseas coverage. Hypocritical much?
Absolutely agree Simon, it is sure is hard to trust her on a whole raft of issues, where there is a discrepancy in timing details. The wonderful thing is Ardern is always able to blame someone else for her mistakes, ( throw them under the bus), so she doesnt have to take responsibility. Still I suppose Simon can be thankful the PMs forgetful staff once again forgot to diarise her weekend engagements ( tricky media interviews) which she has generously gifted to Simon so she can spend some quality time with Neve. Bless!
The public want accountability and why not, its their money the govt is fooling around with. Incompetent ministers, too much uncertainty as the govt figures out what to do. They are not good on detail, that would take too much brain power - so watch for more disasters in the coming months.
The problem is we already have a perfectly effective language, English. Learn Maori by all means, but it will not help unless you work for a govt department, where you get extra brownie points for speaking it. Agree with Edwin Higginson who is absolutely right on those correct pronunciations. They are making it up as they go along. And many reporters and writers do not have understanding of grammar, would not know an adverb if they fell over it, and their use of prepositions and prefixes is woeful.
Ardern is NOT, an employer - how naive and vacuous! She is a servant of the public being paid by us to serve us until we see fit to remove her - which will be sooner rather than later at this rate.I knew these industrial relations reforms would be lethal. But noone spoke about them during the election campaign, much to my surprise. Never mind. When the country sinks to rock bottom National will win in a landslide in 2020. Cant wait!! Some people need to see first hand, in their own lives their standard of living falling, to realise the chaos socialism can wreck on a country...... before they see sense.
WRONG, WRONG, WRONG, Duncan. She tried to relaunch things with business and look how that turned out. Actions speak louder than words, and her talking will not change anything. She could not keep her initial promises because peters kept stopping her mid sentence and saying NO NO NO JACINDA. That is not what I agreed. Do you really think this will stop? They, and the loony Greens, are miles apart on values and policy. He is deeply conservative. Thank god! and she is a flaming communist. NEVER THE TWAIN SHALL MEET.
Whaitirii is being investigated for assault charges and serial litigator McCready, who took Banks to court, has filed a complaint with the police. This is starting to look bad for the govt, if in, worse case scenario, Whaitirii has to leave parliament there will be a bi-election in her electorate. National bought the police in with the Todd Barclay Investigation. Labour will be trying to avoid this, but now will likely be forced to go through with it. Dark clouds ahead for the accidental government.
My concern as a former Aucklander is that they are paying exorbitant rates for petrol and it will not be spent on roads but the train set and the clip on walk/cycleway on the harbour bridge.Twyford and Robertson have tricked Aucklanders. Lied would be a better word.
It is appalling that Claire Curran can choose to avoid question time today in parliament, (no doubt with the PMs approval) when the heat is on. Surely given their high status jobs and the level of accountability they should be held to, this should not be allowed. This is how corruption is allowed to fester and grow within this current Labour govt, hell bent on protecting its weak and incompetent members.who receive their enormous salaries courtesy of the NZ taxpayer. Curran, like Stuart Nash, were both in WITLESS PROTECTION. Nash avoiding questions regarding charges of bullying laid by two women against Deputy PC Wally Hauhama.
A code of conduct would not work. All hard working, law abiding NZers want is for immigrants to follow the law and respect others. Everyone has rights but dont forget the responsibilities. do unto others as they would do unto you is a good mantra to live by.
The Govt playing to its radical supporters. NOT AN IMMIGRATION DECISION, BUT MINISTERS INTERFERING. Obviously getting US steel tariffs lifted is not so important as Govts misguided ideology. Hope Trump says no. That will put our downward economic trajectory on an even faster course. Way to go Jacinda!
Yep, cant argue with Anikas conclusion. She came across all confident, but is not right for this type of show. The full arm tattoos dont help either. She has a great voice, though. Funny, that is what got her fame in the first place.
This decision and others will mean NZ will be in a very dire situation come the next election. Cant wait til the people speak and drive this coalition of chaos out of office.
Ardern is socialist. She bows towards the UN (her mecca) once a day and will not listen to the electorate. She follows ideology not reason or facts and logic. Parker told us earlier this year we would not be increasing our refugee quota any time soon. So if she does then they are liars. Ardern is going to the UN regarding Womens Suffrage celebration. She will take Neve on stage and show the world how it is possible to be a PM and have a a baby, earning almost $500,000 a year, with a man to do all the hard work at home. All her supporters will cheer their new saviour
As a former resident of Auckland I agree with Shane. That is the first thought I had when I heard Goffs announcement. Why should the ratepayer fund this vanity project? The tourists will come statue or no statue, Ngarimu. You can cease with your political verbiage, I am unconvinced anyone is interested in this culturally significant icon, unless you fund it yourself. No, didnt think so. Maybe next millennium? So far from the am Show poll and general comment this morning, around 75% dont like this idea. Socialist Goff will go ahead anyway spending the first million without consultation with the good people of Auckland, as he knows best..
Nurses really deserved the pay rise. They were earning alot less than teachers, particular in beginning years despite being highly qualified, working under protocol, where high levels of performance and outcomes are constantly required. They get 4 weeks holidays, teachers get 12. Teachers now dont have to work with national standards, performance is not measured as with nurses. That is why bulk funding, which worked well with charter schools, would be the way to increase pay, with the best performing teachers promoted to higher salaries as decided by their principals. Giving big pay rises rewards the good plus the many mediocre teachers. That is not right.
Its better to be well adjusted, motivated and have a drive to succeed along with an average IQ, than a high IQ and none of the other qualities, because you will not be a success. Personal qualities are everything in lifes journey, IQ helps.
The crazy thing is the Govt already know what they are going to do, but by spending $55 million asking largely like minded people to do a review they can sheet the blame back to them when things go wrong. i.e. we took the advice of the working group, dont blame us.
Ardernism is the miracle of looks over talent; style over substance. Just keep up the megawatt beam and you can bluff your way through anything, including major mistakes which disrupt the NZ money market. The key aspect of Ardernism is the flair to lie straight face, throw colleagues under the bus without breaking a sweat, then go home and feed the baby. Thats it in a nutshell.
She is smart to keep off social media if she doesnt want to be found. Not everyone wants to share their business with strangers. She was great on Shortland Street.
You have got to be joking Richard. Her so called caring approach is seen by many as weak and inexperienced. Yes she has used up a huge amount of political capital and missed the chance to be seen as decisive and in charge. This is taxpayer money we are talking about, not a game of tiddly winks. Curran through her ineptitude has just wasted $100,000 Her sneakiness got the better of her. If the PM had lanced the boil weeks earlier we would not have to make this large pay out.Greg OConnor gave the PM a real serve. I just loved it and it was so funny hearing Bridges repeat it twice in the house. Of course Greg shouldnt have said it but we all agreed it was correct. He showed huge naivety thinking that was OK. He is definitely not politically aware. The PM dropped him right in it in the house, with her cutting remark. She wouldnt have done that to Curran as she is woman and she would have been aware of her vulnerability!! Nuff said.
Ill thought out and like the oil and gas debacle shows policy made on the hoof. Jacindas mantra announce a policy and figure out the details later. Well we all now know how that worked out dont we Andrew. Youll have to find another way to empty our prisons and put criminals back on the streets. Good on NZF for putting the breaks on
This photo was taken years ago during previous administration, (circa 2014) as were the ones showing young people in cages. During Obamas terms there were problems, just like now, but not widely reported as there was no global hate Obama campaign in progress. This has become obsessional, and will result in Republicans increasing their majority in mid terms in November.(As all the fake news trickles out), American people want a solution to the illegal immigrant problem, its ugly and its difficult. Trump is up for the task. However we all know you cant make an omelette without breaking eggs. Dems dont see it as such a problem as most of these illegals will one day vote for them, just like refugees and beneficiaries in NZ vote Labour.
It doesnt matter what Winstone says about refugees, Australia will block us, so it is all academic. This is all shadow boxing. Fortunately Australia will save us from our corrupt govt, led by a virtue signalling PM, fresh from her only previous management role as captain of the Morrinsville debating team.The welfare and safety of her citizens is far from the mind of our PM as she struts and frets her hour upon the intl stage, courtesy of a special jet (costing anything from $80,000 - $300,000) grabbing her photo calls with as many refugees as possible for the benefit of her adoring radical left base at home, the United Nations and the Guardian newspaper. Go Jacinda!
Last night, a spokesperson said the Prime Minister had been assured that Curran and Handley did not discuss Sky TV and its concerns in the discreet meeting. Gobsmacking naivety from PM. What has Curran got on Ardern? Consider these points: -The meeting was not diarised by Curran -There was noone else at the meeting, -it was held at 8pm at night when everyone had gone home, -No notes were taken. (Labour likes to keep things close to their chest, so have created this new policy of lack of accountability)And still Ardern is giving her a second chance on the key portfolio areas. She is going to trust her when everything points to Curran being underhand and sneaky in her behaviour. My vacuous and naive assumption about Ardern before election was 100% correct.
Dont think they will make it here.Winston is not too keen, NZF believes legal refugees should get first dibs, and there are millions of those waiting in very unpleasant refugee camps, unlike the Nauru economic ones who get much better treatment. Australias fear of starting the boat people saga all over again will make them very cautious about sending any here, despite immediate political considerations since Wentworth by-election.
Warm dry homes is a bit of a fallacy . Even in well built houses with good insulation when the weather is really cold you need to use heating and the house will not be warm just because it has insulation. Better to say dry homes. The onus must also be on tenants to look after their houses. Dont dry washing inside, ventilate it, rub down walls in bathrooms etc, where damp can accumulate. All houses have this problem in winter. Allowing pets in rentals, (which Twyford is threatening to do) can be a problem along with making it more difficult to evict tenants. Landlords will be selling up in droves, making more houses available to buy, but an even greater shortage of rentals.
Apparently theres no real job description for this role. Just a hefty salary and load of kudos for doing very little. The whole scenario stinks to high heavens, given the circumstances surrounding his selection. Curran should be down the road, but unfortunately with Arderns proportionate response, as the leader of a kind and compassionate govt to yet another stuff up, her ex flat mate has more lives than a very accident prone moggy.
Great to hear Peters is about to throw a spanner in the works.... again! The industrial relations regulations (about to go through the house) in their current form will be punishing for businesses.. Lees-Galloway thinks the bill is not a work in progress, well Iain I have news for you!! He says the MECA rules were in place until 2015. Yes, Iain and removed by National because they were too tough and gave unions too much power!! I just love it when Labour keeps getting kicked in the teeth.
Love Rightways comment. Yes, we should be able to send this govt back under the Consumers Guarantees Act and get another one that works. This one is faulty!
To the perpetually outraged out there. These actors are supposed to be real people emotionally reacting to unexpected potentially life changing news, not based on politically correct guidelines. In real life this is more like how people would react, some against, some for. With time things would calm down and conversations would be held on the enormity of what is ahead for Zoe. No good gilding the lily it is a big decision, which many people make to the affirmative and have the child and provide a wonderful life for it, as they are compassionate and selfless. Not everyone is like that. Emmerdale had the same storyline, and now the soap has a downs syndrome child actor in the storyline who is very happy and loved. But initially there was a lot of soul searching by the characters concerned.
I understand the govt owns just 10% of this land the rest is owned by the Buller District Council. So the govt gets the decide on something it owns just 10% of. They are bullies, do not care about peoples lives. The west coast has been suffering since the decline of mining. This not over yet, and Mayor is ready to fight on. Actually water is not more precious than coal. Water is infinite and we are drowning in it - minerals and coal, a finite resource. With oil and gas exploration dead in the water we just might need more coal mining here, (west coast has high quality coal) when we run short of energy due to stupid decisions by the coalition of lunatics who currently run our country, or be dependent on lower quality overseas coal.
I am thankful Winston is pushing back on ridiculous radical policies of Labour and Greens. That is the influence I wanted him to have on National if they went too far to the left. He will not allow legislation to go through giving Maori water rights. THAT IS THE BIG ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM AND NO AMOUNT OF PANDERING TO MAORI BY ARDERN, IS GOING TO APPEASE THEM ON THIS.
If there is one thing the govt is not - it is pragmatic. A bunch of ideologists announcing a decision and figuring out the details later. This is just another example of them not doing their homework before announcing policy.. Good news for the oil companies, not so good for James Shaw. National has been banging on about this ever since Ardern announced this extremely unwise oil and gas exploration decision.The kind and compassionate did not listen to the concerns of the poor people in Taranaki, but have been forced into a sortof backdown by the doomsday forecast from their own business agency. It has given them a shock. It is scarey to think this incompetent govt has control of billions of the tax payers hard earned dollars!!!!
Megan doesnt have a baby bump yet. The white fitting shift dress, which looked very nice, she wore in Sydney revealed that. She also does not have a waist, unlike the Duchess of Cambridge who still has the waist of an 18 year old, since losing her baby weight. Megan figure is straight, no waist to speak of, so does not have to regain it once she has her baby. Megan dresses very casual, all the fuss about her wardrobe is a joke.
So Helen was Nationals Ruth Richardson making a powerful statement when she gave birth during Parliamentary recess 35 years ago, and bought her baby to parliament with nowhere to feed it? Little fanfare from this pragmatic down to earth person. (Five years later she became Finance Minister) During those intervening decades million of women have given birth and gone back to work, some in high powered jobs. In order for Jacinda to achieve this feat many people will go above and beyond to let this virtue signaller have it all.
Winstone desparately wants a trade deal with Russia. A bit difficult at the moment!! Jacinda wants US to drop 30% tariffs off our steel exports, but at the same time does not want to give anything in return. She does not understand the importance of the words compromise and diplomacy. Having insulted Trump last year, she now goes ahead and lets Chelsea Manning in to tell us all about her crimes against the US. Jacinda, Jacinda, Jacinda, Trump will not view that as a relationship building exercise. I hope he refuses to drop the tariffs and our economy continues on the downward spiral, hitting everyone in the back pocket. Then and only then will NZers vote this ridiculous chaotic Coalition out of office.
Dunc going soft on PM, wouldnt want to upset her. Where are the questions about non consultation for oil and gas decision? Couldnt fit them in with all the important baby questions? Also Mark, you missed your global outrage moment #2 with omission of question regarding how much of a cut in her salary will the PM ( soon 2 b the highest paid beneficiary in NZ) be taking, to show solidarity with all the mothers on maternity leave earning at least 1/7 of her 1/2 mill salary. Too chicken eh?
Robert was one of my favourites, just loved his cool demeanour. He seemed a natural. Problem is hes too laid back. The professional dancers seem wound up like a tight spring, with each step so precise, bringing a different persona to each character they portray. In the end it wont be the most talented, but the most popular who wins - and that cant be right.
Ardern went on the defensive when Mark asked her last year if she would be taking maternity leave if she got pregnant. A perfectly reasonable question given labour was campaigning for more leave. Not only did she take maternity leave, she is taking it on full pay. Nice work if you can get it! And the media were too cowardly to ask her if she is giving a percentage back, as he had promised.
I dont care how Jacinda mothers, just how she governs. And so far am not impressed with the latter. Has she announced what cut she is taking in her salary during leave? She told us earlier this year Clarke would be announcing it. So far deathly silence on this subject. How about showing solidarity with other women and take the same cut as them... or more.
Sorry Sam, you didnt win me over from the start, and you are not on the show to win people over. . New improved quote. Vanity thy name is man.Also yes, Julia is annoying. But I still like watching this train wreck show. Note that Dan and Yuki, like Dans mate last year, do not mix and gossip with other couples, they are focused on their own relationship, seem mature and sensitive towards each other and will be the only two who stay together. That is my prediction.
This is an admission by the Education Minister that teachers at the lower levels are failing to teach the basics. Numeracy and literacy should be taught at primary and intermediate level, so now rather than fix it there, they are passing it on to Secondary teachers to do the job. The dumbing down of education continues.
Duncan sound like he is doing great and obviously loves his son. However I feel sorry for his mother. At a time when she should be enjoying her retirement she is up at 3am in the morning. I hope he is paying her well for her efforts.
This issue has ineptitude and incompetence written all over it. A Minister not following process, having secret meetings, not informing key people, keeping staff in the dark. Curran would be a good candidate for the GCSB. She would be a proficient spy. She likes working in the dark. Wrapping up this sorry saga, major mistake by our so called leader, the PM. Her nothing to see here approach on Friday, refusing to speak to reporters, is spectacularly arrogant and will not gain her any brownie points with the electorate. Leadership requires making the tough calls and fronting up when you make a mistake. I predict her speech on Sunday will be another wasted exercise. ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS! JACINDA, EXPLAINING IS LOSING!!
My first thought was corruption. Mallard would not be stopping the enquiry one day after QC announced, with no new info, if there was a chance National was the culprit. The chance to see the opposition squirm would be too delicious. Word is Nash received briefing from Police 7am Friday, under No surprises rule, (followed of course by a chat with the PM?) then a few hours later, Mallard did giant flip flop at the order of the PM.(conflict of interest, also her comment on this matter is out of order, it is Mallards decision to make) Police had assured Mallard and Bridges the perp was being supported and investigation could go ahead. The Speaker of the House is a powerful position however Mallard is well and truly under Arderns thumb, not a guardian of fairness in the Parliament. Corruption at the highest level!
I dont quite agree with Sir Tobys assertion that Maori children need to be taught in Maori. However, as a former teacher I wholeheartedly agree that charter schools have been working well and are a great idea, and giving children that opportunity to have access to both languages must have many benefits. As English is our first language, literacy (and numeracy) skills are necessary part of life skills for all children. My feeling is with the skills and confidence they had gained thus far, most would thrive in other environments, as this has given them the independence and motivation to succeed that they did not have before. The schools were not getting any more money, but using it more wisely, proving that bulk funding would work really well in State Schools.
My concern is that those who refuse to vaccinate put others health in peril. So I agree with Lance. Quite like his approach, how he is not afraid what others think, and speaks his mind. i.e not being gagged by political correctness. How refreshing. The medical fraternity would be thanking him for this. And no doubt he will be giving his patients up north this very good advice, to protect their childrens health.
Crusher Collins is starting to get traction. She is a force to be reckoned with and her support will only grow. Simon needs to step down. His terrible accent is his downfall. He could improve it but perhaps his ego is getting in the way of self improvement. National will surge ahead with a more popular leader. Already they are outstripping Labour in popularity. With Winston in charge, and NZF popularity in doldrums, Judith needs to take the reins.
Rubbish headline from Washington Post. Bill Clinton was fighting off allegations of sexual impropriety all his presidency. It does not look good for Trump, but there is nothing yet to show collusion with Russia, which Mueller is desperate to find. Both these convicted men have financial irregularities going back years before Trump was on the scene. Hillary Clinton has much more bad stuff from the election campaign, which is being kept on the lowdown by USA left wing papers and networks including our papers and two TV networks, who cherry pick negative stuff on Trump and leave out any thing positive.
Nice connection with the suffrage cause and women should keep striving for equality. This is a milestone NZ can be proud of and it will be recognized all over the world.However not all women want to aspire to be captains of industry and many enjoy being a stay at home mum bringing up their precious children themselves and preparing them for all the challenges ahead. If they can afford to do this I say good on them. Each woman needs to do what works best for them not what the womens movement says they should be doing.There should not be pressure to be all things to all people, as the role of a working mother often turns into, carrying out a daily marathon in order to achieve the dream of having it all.
NZ emissions are just a drop in the ocean compared with the larger countries who are emitting to beat the band. Shaw is all ideology not practicality, and is smarming his way thru questions which he really does not have the answers to. Further down the track at the pointy end of things, he will have to back track on much of his grand plan, when cooler and smarter heads will prevail.
Like Ingrid and Nadine doing the news on the am show. They have better voices and a more relaxed delivery style. Amanda is better suited to her reporting role, sorry.
Further incompetence from Curran and the PM, who is obfuscating to beat the band when questioned in parliament. We, the tax payer of course will have to fund the payout for compensation. The piece missing from the jigsaw will be in Currans gmails she was so keen to keep hidden. Of course she is part of the most totally transparent Government ever!!!!
This is more a matter of geography than man made climate change, James, just in case you were about to use this as another example of how humans are ruining the earth by our very existence.. Feel sorry for the people out there. A high value area. Wonder if the property values will start dropping.
Love this programme. Cant wait for the next series. The lead guys unassuming nature makes him a winner. A bit like the old American drama Columbo with Peter Falk, keeps you guessing. Hope they dont put it on really late as they are doing with other good dramas. (Like the Coroner the quaint British drama set in Cornwall)
Hope the current guy hosting The Nation continues in the role. He has a pleasant manner and voice, is across issues, and keeps subjects on their toes. Pleeease do NOT put Paddy Gower in that role. I will turn off and never watch again.
There will always be bullies, in our schools, in our workplaces. It starts in the sandpit with toddlers struggling for control. It is how we deal with it and teach our children to deal with it that makes the difference. Bullies are insecure and feel threatened themselves. Usually it is something you have which they lack which makes them confrontational. But it is hard to analyse rationally when it is happening to you. And for some it is harder than others to deal with.Recognizing, accepting and talking about their emotions/reactions, good and bad will eventually make children more resilient and give them the ability to shrug off nastiness. Best to tell our children, lifes tough for everyone but we can get through the tough stuff through developing coping strategies/self belief etc because everyone has to deal with lifes traumas. Developing resilience is the answer to moving on from adversity and making a success of our lives.
Corporate welfare from a man who is slap dash in handling of the tax payers precious hard earned money. This will come back to haunt him and his party at the next election.
Bridges also needs to also promote RMA reform which National attempted when in office but did not get support from Maori party, the opposition (Labour, NZF) at the time to make any headway. The new agency Twyford is implementing next year to ram through policy is needed because the RMA paralyses progress on housing and infrastructure development.
Haka criticism leaves schoolboy rugby team 'emotional wrecks'
Well here is a chance for these boys to develop some resilience, which is simply what we gain out of conquering adversity. Rather than crying about it, get off social media and get on with improving your rugby. What other people think does not matter. Your coaches and teachers should be using this as growth opportunity. Haka is overdone, what counts is winning every week, at your chosen sport, or taking defeat on the chin and enjoying the company of your friends and team mates.
Global hype continues to paint Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as a cliche
True test of a leader is how they cope in a crisis. So far not good. Ardern flounders when making the tough decisions.
What is Winston Peters up to in refugee spat?
Ardern was going there to make another plea for the refugees and a photo op. But her narrative was shut down by Winston, the wily old fox. She came out all unicorns and rainbows, with another obfuscation and a beautiful smile - nothing to see here. - Shes a great actress I ll give her that. Wait til she gets home, the media and her party will want an explanation for throwing Lees Galloway under the bus. Seems everyone agrees with Winston, and this will be good for his ratings. Gemma Lynch could barely hide her disgust on Newshub tonight. No big refugees announcement and photo opp. Never mind, we have enough of our own needy people to look after. Charity begins at home.
With Winston Peters in charge, it seems everything could be up for grabs
Winston First take the reins and appears to be on suicide mission. Suing your own govt can only go badly from a PR perspective. We can Expect to see NZF ratings tank even further.
Auckland's Powerstation owner apologises for booking controversial speakers
Rubbish to their reason. Of course they knew who the booking was for. The trolls and bullies have been hard at it, some from on high. Would love to find they actually have another venue booked and this is a red herring. Would not attend, not a fan of extremism, however nor am I a fan of suppressing comments because they are not politically correct enough for some people.
Wounded Clare Curran had no choice but to quit
The intolerable pressure Curran was under was created by her own incompetence. She was so obviously out of her depth. Her comment I am only human at the beginning of her statement smacked of self pity. A more fitting comment would have been...I have had the incredible privilege of serving as a Minister in this Labour Government, but was not up to the task. I am sorry I have let people down. Good riddance to this trougher, who will not be gone for two more years.
Don Brash free speech debate in Auckland booms on back of Massey's ban
Pleased to hear attendance will be up for Brashs speech at Auckland Uni. The left, led by Massey VC, have given oxygen to this event. She is so wrong to use her bias, and to quote Garner (emotions) to make decisions, rather than objectivity based on actual knowledge of what the subject matter was. She should apologise and step down. She is not worthy of this position.
No reason for Jacinda Ardern to stay home from Pacific Forum
Winston for all his faults is a good foreign minister and can do the job perfectly well for NZ. What he will not be doing is virtue signalling on refugees and that is why Ardern is high tailing it up there, to have an open and honest public conversation/argument with Winston on NZs stance on refugees. She will move heaven and earth to get her photo calls with some refugees and take the limelight off that pesky Deputy Prime Minister and his stupid utterances on the reality of bringing refugees into a country that has enough troubles of its own in the poverty department. Get your pop corn ready folks!
PM Jacinda Ardern leader steals limelight in Nauru
Foreign leaders may fall at her feet. Meanwhile back in New Zealand the natives are getting restless.
"NZ won't change law over Aussie policy on Nauru refugees, Winston Peters says
One Australian correspondent says it wont happen. PM Morrison is trying to drum up support amongst liberals for his party in the Wentworth bi -election this weekend. Come Sunday he will have forgotten about it. One thing we have in our favour, Winston Peters is the real boss of us, and he will stop it happening if the fairy princess tries any more virtue signalling. He does not support economic migrants who have jumped the queue and landed in Nauru, coming here. Peters for all his faults (and there are many) is a sobering influence on this ridiculous govt led by an airhead.
Prime Minister says fair pay agreement development 'has left a bit of a vacuum'
Bit of a vacuum from a vacuous Prime Minister.
Jeremy Elwood & Michele A'Court: Why all politicians should have small babies or large distractions
Sure the PM has a baby. We dont really care. What we do care about is if it affects her ability to do her job and make rational decisions. It appears it does. She is not in the fish and chip shop now! Bigger things are at stake. Nuff said
Serena Williams gives umpire a serve in US Open final defeat
Its the worse refereeing ever if your favourite loses -suck it up Serena. Congratulations to Naomi Osaka the new Womens US Open winner. Naomi kept her cool, and succeeded.
Jones: Huge investment in Far North comes down to advocacy, not bias
Sure Shane. Also you would like to win a seat up north, (you and Winston) in case you are still below 5% next election. So helps to throw a bit of money around.
Derek Handley receives $107k in compensation after being dumped as chief technology officer
Could this be the reason you have cancelled your media engagements this week PM? And of course the upcoming announcement at 4pm today, leaked to National, that Meka Waitiri has kept her job. It would be embarrassing to have to explain them both. One obfuscation after another!
Poll shows Labour overtake National
Amazing result for National given poll was taken during worst week ever in nationals history. Even Soper saying hard to believe they have only dropped 3 points. Labour in front for first time, not surprising. Obviously those polled thought like me, it isnt the party imploding just one rogue MP going ballistic. Bridges not looking good though.
Derek Handley receives $107k in compensation after being dumped as chief technology officer
This payment should be taken out of the incompetent Currans salary.
Public can have no confidence in broadcast minister – and neither can Prime Minister
Clare Curran is not to be trusted. She is a special brand of stupid. Yet the PM says she takes her word that Sky TV was not discussed at the meeting, despite there being no one else at the meeting to verify this and no meeting notes. Vacuous much, PM? However, fortunately, Jacinda has got the basics right!! She got to make the Sunday papers smiling winningly into the All Black captains eyes.
"Jami-Lee Ross: Controversial from the start",
Ross is burning down the village and the temple as he leaves. He wanted this to be a memorable occasion. He got that all right! Think that Bridges will be stronger as a result. Ross saved Bridges the trouble of having to fire him. Envy was strong in this Howick MP. and has been the death of his political career. He will not win Botany as an Independent. National will retain it.
PM denies misleading Parliament about correspondence with Derek Handley
I believe Derek thinks the worse part of all of this is the govt lack of professionalism in the way they handled their stuff up. Proving they are rank amateurs. We all know how soul destroying it is to be ignored after applying for a job. Well that is what they did to Derek. Love the timing of the release to rain perfectly on the PMs UN parade.
Labour finally shakes off Nationals shadow a year on from the election
Very complimentary Tracey, but we know the truth. Ardern has confidence in Lees Galloway, but not the decision (er Jacinda, HE MADE IT!) there is no arguing with stupid.
Ban on new offshore oil exploration permits looms
Reducing emissions is more important than ensuring NZers have access to electricity for the future. Another example of this virtue signalling govts propensity to make policy on the fly and figure out the details later. Well see how that works out!!!
PM denies misleading Parliament about correspondence with Derek Handley
Love Handleys timing with the release of this very helpful information which the Government has been unable to provide for the NZ taxpayer, right when Ardern wants maximum positive coverage with her UN appearance. Slam dunk Derek!Her comment to him in an email that she would see if the govt had anything which could suit him (wtte) is a huge pointer to her helping him get a job. Who else got that email? Did she communicate with the other applicants? Of course not. Definite collusion by Ardern.
When the Minister of Education sets a low bar for rudeness
I do like Bridges and his ventriloquist comment was very funny and spot on. The slur from Hipkins is wrong as Bridges was referring to Robertsons whispering information to not just Ardern, but hapless Kelvin and others close by when they need stats etc,they do not have at their fingertips. This has turned out to be a good week for National as Mallard is implementing an investigation over the leaked info, as Bridges has requested. It has raised his profile. He is acting in a more forthright way. He is a nice guy but needs to inject a bit of of mongrel into his style to get the attention, as he is dealing with a pack of mongrels in govt.!!
Why National insists on calling Jacinda Ardern 'weak'
None of us is responsible for Winstons mess. The winning party got 10 more seats, compared to 2nd place Labour, at the last election. Clearly a mandate from the people of NZ they wanted National. Winston chose to go with the losers, due to his HUNGER FOR UTU AND POWER and knowing vacuous Jacinda could be walked all over.
Shane Jones attacks Air NZs hip hop safety video as trivialising safety
Agree Shane. And the kid actor in it is a bit over done. We could do with a holiday from him. Air NZ and their Ad agency need to get over themselves. Treating safety in such a trivial manner is just not on. They have definitely become too cute for their own good. Producing a safety video which instructs and entertains for a very broad audience, with a sky is the limit budget. How hard can it be?
An ode to free and responsible speech - it's been a rough week for it
This has been a great week for bringing up an important subject: free speech. Completely agree with Departeds comment the silence from the media has been deafening on response to Arderns damning of the Canadians, and their right to express their views. If it were Key or English they would be right in there, asking for elaboration. The media (mainly left wing) are singing from the same song book as the PM. Ardern quickly changed her stance on Brashs Massey banning. This was out of expediency, when she saw which way the wind was blowing. She is not a great leader. Her stance is: I have principles and if you dont like them, I have others. Plus being led by the nose by Winston doesnt help. This has been clearly illustrated in the Wally Haumaha debacle.
Point of order: scrap Question Time or make it matter
The problems is Mallard does not make the PM and Ministers answer questions. And it gets absurd when they are allowed to say a pre prepared answer each time, with out even addressing the question. This has been particularly marked lately where so many mistakes and cover ups have been going on but the govt is protected by a speaker who does not force them to answer.The worse thing is Peters uses the time like comedy hour, avoiding questions and making rude comment about the opposition and gets loud guffaws from his specially trained monkeys on his side. They probably know it is more than their life is worth not to laugh.
Garner: Don't write this fumbling coalition off just yet
No, its not finished yet Duncan, it will continue on its slow sorry march to its destruction in 2020. Bring it on!!
New Zealand's Push-me-Pull-you Government
I do like the new name Tim has coined for this govt. It was always going to happen when this pure?? form of MMP took flight. When you have a deeply conservative older man like Winston and a flighty virtue signalling, naive inexperienced younger woman desperate for power at any cost you have a coalition formed through expediency. There were always going to be major road blocks. I dont support this three headed hydra, but am just glad they have Winston, the adult, there to stop them bringing in radical laws. Of course Winston knew all this drama could be prevented by choosing National as they think similarly to him on most issues. There would be less drama more sensible policy decision making and less anxiety for NZers. But that was not on his mind when he made the stupidest decision ever in NZ history based on his hunger for utu and power.
National's Chris Bishop accuses Police Minister Stuart Nash of "paranoid behaviour"
Looks like Bishop is quicker off the mark than Nash,who is too busy criticizing people who do not turn up to work on time!!!
Alison Mau: Nothing makes the hackles rise like someone having a go at your family
Politicizing the baby will back fire on her, UNLESS, she starts getting results. Like if her first sermon from the mount results in the reversal of business confidence, then she will be flavour of the month. I believe it is Ardern (control freak) that has given Mallard the order about no press intrusion of the baby within Parliament. The only problem with that is the puff pieces will go on unabated for mags, and her publicists will continue working overtime on overseas coverage. Hypocritical much?
CTO fiasco makes it 'hard to trust' Jacinda Ardern, Simon Bridges says
Absolutely agree Simon, it is sure is hard to trust her on a whole raft of issues, where there is a discrepancy in timing details. The wonderful thing is Ardern is always able to blame someone else for her mistakes, ( throw them under the bus), so she doesnt have to take responsibility. Still I suppose Simon can be thankful the PMs forgetful staff once again forgot to diarise her weekend engagements ( tricky media interviews) which she has generously gifted to Simon so she can spend some quality time with Neve. Bless!
Stacey Kirk: Labour's issues come back to one word - credibility
The public want accountability and why not, its their money the govt is fooling around with. Incompetent ministers, too much uncertainty as the govt figures out what to do. They are not good on detail, that would take too much brain power - so watch for more disasters in the coming months.
What's the point in learning te reo MÄori, a language spoken only in New Zealand?
The problem is we already have a perfectly effective language, English. Learn Maori by all means, but it will not help unless you work for a govt department, where you get extra brownie points for speaking it. Agree with Edwin Higginson who is absolutely right on those correct pronunciations. They are making it up as they go along. And many reporters and writers do not have understanding of grammar, would not know an adverb if they fell over it, and their use of prepositions and prefixes is woeful.
Magnifying the elephant in the boardroom
Ardern is NOT, an employer - how naive and vacuous! She is a servant of the public being paid by us to serve us until we see fit to remove her - which will be sooner rather than later at this rate.I knew these industrial relations reforms would be lethal. But noone spoke about them during the election campaign, much to my surprise. Never mind. When the country sinks to rock bottom National will win in a landslide in 2020. Cant wait!! Some people need to see first hand, in their own lives their standard of living falling, to realise the chaos socialism can wreck on a country...... before they see sense.
Garner: Don't write this fumbling coalition off just yet
WRONG, WRONG, WRONG, Duncan. She tried to relaunch things with business and look how that turned out. Actions speak louder than words, and her talking will not change anything. She could not keep her initial promises because peters kept stopping her mid sentence and saying NO NO NO JACINDA. That is not what I agreed. Do you really think this will stop? They, and the loony Greens, are miles apart on values and policy. He is deeply conservative. Thank god! and she is a flaming communist. NEVER THE TWAIN SHALL MEET.
Stacey Kirk: Labour's issues come back to one word - credibility
Whaitirii is being investigated for assault charges and serial litigator McCready, who took Banks to court, has filed a complaint with the police. This is starting to look bad for the govt, if in, worse case scenario, Whaitirii has to leave parliament there will be a bi-election in her electorate. National bought the police in with the Todd Barclay Investigation. Labour will be trying to avoid this, but now will likely be forced to go through with it. Dark clouds ahead for the accidental government.
Stacey Kirk: Labour's issues come back to one word - credibility
My concern as a former Aucklander is that they are paying exorbitant rates for petrol and it will not be spent on roads but the train set and the clip on walk/cycleway on the harbour bridge.Twyford and Robertson have tricked Aucklanders. Lied would be a better word.
Curran's email blunder highlights perils of using personal email for work
It is appalling that Claire Curran can choose to avoid question time today in parliament, (no doubt with the PMs approval) when the heat is on. Surely given their high status jobs and the level of accountability they should be held to, this should not be allowed. This is how corruption is allowed to fester and grow within this current Labour govt, hell bent on protecting its weak and incompetent members.who receive their enormous salaries courtesy of the NZ taxpayer. Curran, like Stuart Nash, were both in WITLESS PROTECTION. Nash avoiding questions regarding charges of bullying laid by two women against Deputy PC Wally Hauhama.
"Jonathan Milne: If these are Kiwi values, I don't want a bar of them",
A code of conduct would not work. All hard working, law abiding NZers want is for immigrants to follow the law and respect others. Everyone has rights but dont forget the responsibilities. do unto others as they would do unto you is a good mantra to live by.
Chelsea Manning granted special direction to apply for visa
The Govt playing to its radical supporters. NOT AN IMMIGRATION DECISION, BUT MINISTERS INTERFERING. Obviously getting US steel tariffs lifted is not so important as Govts misguided ideology. Hope Trump says no. That will put our downward economic trajectory on an even faster course. Way to go Jacinda!
Anika Moa interview: 'I was too childish for Seven Sharp'
Yep, cant argue with Anikas conclusion. She came across all confident, but is not right for this type of show. The full arm tattoos dont help either. She has a great voice, though. Funny, that is what got her fame in the first place.
"Oil ban puts New Zealand on a 'black list' for investment, service companies claim",
This decision and others will mean NZ will be in a very dire situation come the next election. Cant wait til the people speak and drive this coalition of chaos out of office.
Calls for PM to bring Nauru refugee kids to NZ
Ardern is socialist. She bows towards the UN (her mecca) once a day and will not listen to the electorate. She follows ideology not reason or facts and logic. Parker told us earlier this year we would not be increasing our refugee quota any time soon. So if she does then they are liars. Ardern is going to the UN regarding Womens Suffrage celebration. She will take Neve on stage and show the world how it is possible to be a PM and have a a baby, earning almost $500,000 a year, with a man to do all the hard work at home. All her supporters will cheer their new saviour
'Pay for it yourselves': NZ First MP Shane Jones savages hapÅ«'s PapatÅ«Änuku proposal
As a former resident of Auckland I agree with Shane. That is the first thought I had when I heard Goffs announcement. Why should the ratepayer fund this vanity project? The tourists will come statue or no statue, Ngarimu. You can cease with your political verbiage, I am unconvinced anyone is interested in this culturally significant icon, unless you fund it yourself. No, didnt think so. Maybe next millennium? So far from the am Show poll and general comment this morning, around 75% dont like this idea. Socialist Goff will go ahead anyway spending the first million without consultation with the good people of Auckland, as he knows best..
Primary teachers and principals strike for first time since 1994
Nurses really deserved the pay rise. They were earning alot less than teachers, particular in beginning years despite being highly qualified, working under protocol, where high levels of performance and outcomes are constantly required. They get 4 weeks holidays, teachers get 12. Teachers now dont have to work with national standards, performance is not measured as with nurses. That is why bulk funding, which worked well with charter schools, would be the way to increase pay, with the best performing teachers promoted to higher salaries as decided by their principals. Giving big pay rises rewards the good plus the many mediocre teachers. That is not right.
Damien Grant: What a person does with their genetic inheritance defines them
Its better to be well adjusted, motivated and have a drive to succeed along with an average IQ, than a high IQ and none of the other qualities, because you will not be a success. Personal qualities are everything in lifes journey, IQ helps.
"What everyone wanted to know about Meghan's travel outfit",
Lets make a fuss about nothing. So she is carrying two folders. Shock horror, she must be pregnant! Next issue please.
Outsourcing Government: The $55m cost of reviews
The crazy thing is the Govt already know what they are going to do, but by spending $55 million asking largely like minded people to do a review they can sheet the blame back to them when things go wrong. i.e. we took the advice of the working group, dont blame us.
David Hall: How Jacinda Ardern embodies the spirit of republicanism
Ardernism is the miracle of looks over talent; style over substance. Just keep up the megawatt beam and you can bluff your way through anything, including major mistakes which disrupt the NZ money market. The key aspect of Ardernism is the flair to lie straight face, throw colleagues under the bus without breaking a sweat, then go home and feed the baby. Thats it in a nutshell.
Whatever happened to Kirsty Knight from Shortland St?
She is smart to keep off social media if she doesnt want to be found. Not everyone wants to share their business with strangers. She was great on Shortland Street.
Clare Curran's demise has been a very public disgrace
You have got to be joking Richard. Her so called caring approach is seen by many as weak and inexperienced. Yes she has used up a huge amount of political capital and missed the chance to be seen as decisive and in charge. This is taxpayer money we are talking about, not a game of tiddly winks. Curran through her ineptitude has just wasted $100,000 Her sneakiness got the better of her. If the PM had lanced the boil weeks earlier we would not have to make this large pay out.Greg OConnor gave the PM a real serve. I just loved it and it was so funny hearing Bridges repeat it twice in the house. Of course Greg shouldnt have said it but we all agreed it was correct. He showed huge naivety thinking that was OK. He is definitely not politically aware. The PM dropped him right in it in the house, with her cutting remark. She wouldnt have done that to Curran as she is woman and she would have been aware of her vulnerability!! Nuff said.
Government's three strikes repeal killed by NZ First
Ill thought out and like the oil and gas debacle shows policy made on the hoof. Jacindas mantra announce a policy and figure out the details later. Well we all now know how that worked out dont we Andrew. Youll have to find another way to empty our prisons and put criminals back on the streets. Good on NZF for putting the breaks on
Honduran girl in US symbolic border clash photo not separated from mother
This photo was taken years ago during previous administration, (circa 2014) as were the ones showing young people in cages. During Obamas terms there were problems, just like now, but not widely reported as there was no global hate Obama campaign in progress. This has become obsessional, and will result in Republicans increasing their majority in mid terms in November.(As all the fake news trickles out), American people want a solution to the illegal immigrant problem, its ugly and its difficult. Trump is up for the task. However we all know you cant make an omelette without breaking eggs. Dems dont see it as such a problem as most of these illegals will one day vote for them, just like refugees and beneficiaries in NZ vote Labour.
What is Winston Peters up to in refugee spat?
It doesnt matter what Winstone says about refugees, Australia will block us, so it is all academic. This is all shadow boxing. Fortunately Australia will save us from our corrupt govt, led by a virtue signalling PM, fresh from her only previous management role as captain of the Morrinsville debating team.The welfare and safety of her citizens is far from the mind of our PM as she struts and frets her hour upon the intl stage, courtesy of a special jet (costing anything from $80,000 - $300,000) grabbing her photo calls with as many refugees as possible for the benefit of her adoring radical left base at home, the United Nations and the Guardian newspaper. Go Jacinda!
Public can have no confidence in broadcast minister – and neither can Prime Minister
Last night, a spokesperson said the Prime Minister had been assured that Curran and Handley did not discuss Sky TV and its concerns in the discreet meeting. Gobsmacking naivety from PM. What has Curran got on Ardern? Consider these points: -The meeting was not diarised by Curran -There was noone else at the meeting, -it was held at 8pm at night when everyone had gone home, -No notes were taken. (Labour likes to keep things close to their chest, so have created this new policy of lack of accountability)And still Ardern is giving her a second chance on the key portfolio areas. She is going to trust her when everything points to Curran being underhand and sneaky in her behaviour. My vacuous and naive assumption about Ardern before election was 100% correct.
New Zealand, asylum seekers and nonsense: An Australian perspective
Dont think they will make it here.Winston is not too keen, NZF believes legal refugees should get first dibs, and there are millions of those waiting in very unpleasant refugee camps, unlike the Nauru economic ones who get much better treatment. Australias fear of starting the boat people saga all over again will make them very cautious about sending any here, despite immediate political considerations since Wentworth by-election.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's plan to bring the boardroom into the Beehive
Yeah!! Another advisory group. That should solve everything.
Landlords: How tough do they have it, really?
Warm dry homes is a bit of a fallacy . Even in well built houses with good insulation when the weather is really cold you need to use heating and the house will not be warm just because it has insulation. Better to say dry homes. The onus must also be on tenants to look after their houses. Dont dry washing inside, ventilate it, rub down walls in bathrooms etc, where damp can accumulate. All houses have this problem in winter. Allowing pets in rentals, (which Twyford is threatening to do) can be a problem along with making it more difficult to evict tenants. Landlords will be selling up in droves, making more houses available to buy, but an even greater shortage of rentals.
Derek Handley still tipped for CTO job despite Curran debacle
Apparently theres no real job description for this role. Just a hefty salary and load of kudos for doing very little. The whole scenario stinks to high heavens, given the circumstances surrounding his selection. Curran should be down the road, but unfortunately with Arderns proportionate response, as the leader of a kind and compassionate govt to yet another stuff up, her ex flat mate has more lives than a very accident prone moggy.
Winston Peters says controversial labour law is still a 'work in progress'
Great to hear Peters is about to throw a spanner in the works.... again! The industrial relations regulations (about to go through the house) in their current form will be punishing for businesses.. Lees-Galloway thinks the bill is not a work in progress, well Iain I have news for you!! He says the MECA rules were in place until 2015. Yes, Iain and removed by National because they were too tough and gave unions too much power!! I just love it when Labour keeps getting kicked in the teeth.
How the Trudeaus made Canada one of the world's most intriguing countries
He is a joke. Him and Jacinda make a good pair of virtue signallers
Labour may be preparing to shelve major tax reform, but is it really last chance saloon?
I hope the govt legislates for CGT. It wont be introduced until 2021, at which point, National the new govt will repeal it. Easy peasy.
Stacey Kirk: Was a Govt beset by problems given a sympathy 'second chance' on Salisbury statement?
Love Rightways comment. Yes, we should be able to send this govt back under the Consumers Guarantees Act and get another one that works. This one is faulty!
Shortland Street's 'insensitive' Down syndrome baby storyline controversy
To the perpetually outraged out there. These actors are supposed to be real people emotionally reacting to unexpected potentially life changing news, not based on politically correct guidelines. In real life this is more like how people would react, some against, some for. With time things would calm down and conversations would be held on the enormity of what is ahead for Zoe. No good gilding the lily it is a big decision, which many people make to the affirmative and have the child and provide a wonderful life for it, as they are compassionate and selfless. Not everyone is like that. Emmerdale had the same storyline, and now the soap has a downs syndrome child actor in the storyline who is very happy and loved. But initially there was a lot of soul searching by the characters concerned.
Government declines controversial application for coal mine at Te Kuha
I understand the govt owns just 10% of this land the rest is owned by the Buller District Council. So the govt gets the decide on something it owns just 10% of. They are bullies, do not care about peoples lives. The west coast has been suffering since the decline of mining. This not over yet, and Mayor is ready to fight on. Actually water is not more precious than coal. Water is infinite and we are drowning in it - minerals and coal, a finite resource. With oil and gas exploration dead in the water we just might need more coal mining here, (west coast has high quality coal) when we run short of energy due to stupid decisions by the coalition of lunatics who currently run our country, or be dependent on lower quality overseas coal.
Why National insists on calling Jacinda Ardern 'weak'
I am thankful Winston is pushing back on ridiculous radical policies of Labour and Greens. That is the influence I wanted him to have on National if they went too far to the left. He will not allow legislation to go through giving Maori water rights. THAT IS THE BIG ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM AND NO AMOUNT OF PANDERING TO MAORI BY ARDERN, IS GOING TO APPEASE THEM ON THIS.
Symbolic backdown undermines Government's untidy oil move
If there is one thing the govt is not - it is pragmatic. A bunch of ideologists announcing a decision and figuring out the details later. This is just another example of them not doing their homework before announcing policy.. Good news for the oil companies, not so good for James Shaw. National has been banging on about this ever since Ardern announced this extremely unwise oil and gas exploration decision.The kind and compassionate did not listen to the concerns of the poor people in Taranaki, but have been forced into a sortof backdown by the doomsday forecast from their own business agency. It has given them a shock. It is scarey to think this incompetent govt has control of billions of the tax payers hard earned dollars!!!!
"Avoiding a diplomatic crisis: The secrets of Meghan's royal 'tourdrobe'",
Megan doesnt have a baby bump yet. The white fitting shift dress, which looked very nice, she wore in Sydney revealed that. She also does not have a waist, unlike the Duchess of Cambridge who still has the waist of an 18 year old, since losing her baby weight. Megan figure is straight, no waist to speak of, so does not have to regain it once she has her baby. Megan dresses very casual, all the fuss about her wardrobe is a joke.
Former PM Helen Clark says birth of first baby sends 'powerful statement'
So Helen was Nationals Ruth Richardson making a powerful statement when she gave birth during Parliamentary recess 35 years ago, and bought her baby to parliament with nowhere to feed it? Little fanfare from this pragmatic down to earth person. (Five years later she became Finance Minister) During those intervening decades million of women have given birth and gone back to work, some in high powered jobs. In order for Jacinda to achieve this feat many people will go above and beyond to let this virtue signaller have it all.
Stacey Kirk: Was a Govt beset by problems given a sympathy 'second chance' on Salisbury statement?
Winstone desparately wants a trade deal with Russia. A bit difficult at the moment!! Jacinda wants US to drop 30% tariffs off our steel exports, but at the same time does not want to give anything in return. She does not understand the importance of the words compromise and diplomacy. Having insulted Trump last year, she now goes ahead and lets Chelsea Manning in to tell us all about her crimes against the US. Jacinda, Jacinda, Jacinda, Trump will not view that as a relationship building exercise. I hope he refuses to drop the tariffs and our economy continues on the downward spiral, hitting everyone in the back pocket. Then and only then will NZers vote this ridiculous chaotic Coalition out of office.
AM Show shatters Clarke Gayford's deck dreams in Jacinda Ardern interview
Dunc going soft on PM, wouldnt want to upset her. Where are the questions about non consultation for oil and gas decision? Couldnt fit them in with all the important baby questions? Also Mark, you missed your global outrage moment #2 with omission of question regarding how much of a cut in her salary will the PM ( soon 2 b the highest paid beneficiary in NZ) be taking, to show solidarity with all the mothers on maternity leave earning at least 1/7 of her 1/2 mill salary. Too chicken eh?
Dancing With the Stars: Robbie Rakete unhappy with dance-off format
Robert was one of my favourites, just loved his cool demeanour. He seemed a natural. Problem is hes too laid back. The professional dancers seem wound up like a tight spring, with each step so precise, bringing a different persona to each character they portray. In the end it wont be the most talented, but the most popular who wins - and that cant be right.
Home birth, cloth nappies on the horizon for Greens' Julie Anne Genter
Yada Yada Yada Julie Anne. Take longer. We never hear from you, despite horrific road toll. Efforts embarrassing.
Family pays price for Mark Richardson's baby spat with Jacinda Ardern
Ardern went on the defensive when Mark asked her last year if she would be taking maternity leave if she got pregnant. A perfectly reasonable question given labour was campaigning for more leave. Not only did she take maternity leave, she is taking it on full pay. Nice work if you can get it! And the media were too cowardly to ask her if she is giving a percentage back, as he had promised.
Instead of giving Jacinda Ardern baby advice, let's trust her - and all women - to make their own choices
I dont care how Jacinda mothers, just how she governs. And so far am not impressed with the latter. Has she announced what cut she is taking in her salary during leave? She told us earlier this year Clarke would be announcing it. So far deathly silence on this subject. How about showing solidarity with other women and take the same cut as them... or more.
"Married At First Sight New Zealand: Dave has to prove he is a Real Man",
Sorry Sam, you didnt win me over from the start, and you are not on the show to win people over. . New improved quote. Vanity thy name is man.Also yes, Julia is annoying. But I still like watching this train wreck show. Note that Dan and Yuki, like Dans mate last year, do not mix and gossip with other couples, they are focused on their own relationship, seem mature and sensitive towards each other and will be the only two who stay together. That is my prediction.
A complete overhaul of NCEA level one has been recommended to Government
This is an admission by the Education Minister that teachers at the lower levels are failing to teach the basics. Numeracy and literacy should be taught at primary and intermediate level, so now rather than fix it there, they are passing it on to Secondary teachers to do the job. The dumbing down of education continues.
Dear Duncan: Some tips for making it through the sole parenting mine-field
Duncan sound like he is doing great and obviously loves his son. However I feel sorry for his mother. At a time when she should be enjoying her retirement she is up at 3am in the morning. I hope he is paying her well for her efforts.
Chief technology officer fiasco a spectacular own goal
This issue has ineptitude and incompetence written all over it. A Minister not following process, having secret meetings, not informing key people, keeping staff in the dark. Curran would be a good candidate for the GCSB. She would be a proficient spy. She likes working in the dark. Wrapping up this sorry saga, major mistake by our so called leader, the PM. Her nothing to see here approach on Friday, refusing to speak to reporters, is spectacularly arrogant and will not gain her any brownie points with the electorate. Leadership requires making the tough calls and fronting up when you make a mistake. I predict her speech on Sunday will be another wasted exercise. ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS! JACINDA, EXPLAINING IS LOSING!!
Public can have no confidence in broadcast minister – and neither can Prime Minister
My first thought was corruption. Mallard would not be stopping the enquiry one day after QC announced, with no new info, if there was a chance National was the culprit. The chance to see the opposition squirm would be too delicious. Word is Nash received briefing from Police 7am Friday, under No surprises rule, (followed of course by a chat with the PM?) then a few hours later, Mallard did giant flip flop at the order of the PM.(conflict of interest, also her comment on this matter is out of order, it is Mallards decision to make) Police had assured Mallard and Bridges the perp was being supported and investigation could go ahead. The Speaker of the House is a powerful position however Mallard is well and truly under Arderns thumb, not a guardian of fairness in the Parliament. Corruption at the highest level!
Sir Toby Curtis delivers emotional plea against charter school closures
I dont quite agree with Sir Tobys assertion that Maori children need to be taught in Maori. However, as a former teacher I wholeheartedly agree that charter schools have been working well and are a great idea, and giving children that opportunity to have access to both languages must have many benefits. As English is our first language, literacy (and numeracy) skills are necessary part of life skills for all children. My feeling is with the skills and confidence they had gained thus far, most would thrive in other environments, as this has given them the independence and motivation to succeed that they did not have before. The schools were not getting any more money, but using it more wisely, proving that bulk funding would work really well in State Schools.
Dr Lance O'Sullivan: Penalise parents who won't vaccinate their kids
My concern is that those who refuse to vaccinate put others health in peril. So I agree with Lance. Quite like his approach, how he is not afraid what others think, and speaks his mind. i.e not being gagged by political correctness. How refreshing. The medical fraternity would be thanking him for this. And no doubt he will be giving his patients up north this very good advice, to protect their childrens health.
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
Crusher Collins is starting to get traction. She is a force to be reckoned with and her support will only grow. Simon needs to step down. His terrible accent is his downfall. He could improve it but perhaps his ego is getting in the way of self improvement. National will surge ahead with a more popular leader. Already they are outstripping Labour in popularity. With Winston in charge, and NZF popularity in doldrums, Judith needs to take the reins.
Dancing With the Stars: Robbie Rakete unhappy with dance-off format
Why do people vote for Seymours dancing, at which he sux, and not for his political party??
Donald Trump: The illegitimate US president
Rubbish headline from Washington Post. Bill Clinton was fighting off allegations of sexual impropriety all his presidency. It does not look good for Trump, but there is nothing yet to show collusion with Russia, which Mueller is desperate to find. Both these convicted men have financial irregularities going back years before Trump was on the scene. Hillary Clinton has much more bad stuff from the election campaign, which is being kept on the lowdown by USA left wing papers and networks including our papers and two TV networks, who cherry pick negative stuff on Trump and leave out any thing positive.
'Within the ordinary stands the extraordinary': 125 years of women's suffrage
Nice connection with the suffrage cause and women should keep striving for equality. This is a milestone NZ can be proud of and it will be recognized all over the world.However not all women want to aspire to be captains of industry and many enjoy being a stay at home mum bringing up their precious children themselves and preparing them for all the challenges ahead. If they can afford to do this I say good on them. Each woman needs to do what works best for them not what the womens movement says they should be doing.There should not be pressure to be all things to all people, as the role of a working mother often turns into, carrying out a daily marathon in order to achieve the dream of having it all.
Zero-carbon economy may not be worth the cost
NZ emissions are just a drop in the ocean compared with the larger countries who are emitting to beat the band. Shaw is all ideology not practicality, and is smarming his way thru questions which he really does not have the answers to. Further down the track at the pointy end of things, he will have to back track on much of his grand plan, when cooler and smarter heads will prevail.
Barack Obamas NZ visit cost the taxpayer more than $30,000
Good grief. What on earth were tax payers doing footing the bill? Outrageous. What benefit do we get out of it?
Weather presenter Ingrid Hipkiss on what it's like to be in danger during Auckland storm
Like Ingrid and Nadine doing the news on the am show. They have better voices and a more relaxed delivery style. Amanda is better suited to her reporting role, sorry.
Derek Handley was offered CTO job before it was put on hold, says source
Further incompetence from Curran and the PM, who is obfuscating to beat the band when questioned in parliament. We, the tax payer of course will have to fund the payout for compensation. The piece missing from the jigsaw will be in Currans gmails she was so keen to keep hidden. Of course she is part of the most totally transparent Government ever!!!!
Clevedon mops up after being flooded again amid concerns over new housing plans
This is more a matter of geography than man made climate change, James, just in case you were about to use this as another example of how humans are ruining the earth by our very existence.. Feel sorry for the people out there. A high value area. Wonder if the property values will start dropping.
The Block: Tears flow after unfair judging
Best to start with the premise, Lifes not fair, saves alot of disappointment along the way.
Gull slams regional fuel tax legislation, says it will force prices to hike
Overseas Oil prices are set to drop, but that wont make much difference to NZ prices. Greedy fuel companies and increased govt taxes will see to that.
The Brokenwood Mysteries makes a killing internationally
Love this programme. Cant wait for the next series. The lead guys unassuming nature makes him a winner. A bit like the old American drama Columbo with Peter Falk, keeps you guessing. Hope they dont put it on really late as they are doing with other good dramas. (Like the Coroner the quaint British drama set in Cornwall)
Lisa Owen announced as new host of RNZ's Checkpoint
Hope the current guy hosting The Nation continues in the role. He has a pleasant manner and voice, is across issues, and keeps subjects on their toes. Pleeease do NOT put Paddy Gower in that role. I will turn off and never watch again.
Parents need to know: Not all unkindness is bullying
There will always be bullies, in our schools, in our workplaces. It starts in the sandpit with toddlers struggling for control. It is how we deal with it and teach our children to deal with it that makes the difference. Bullies are insecure and feel threatened themselves. Usually it is something you have which they lack which makes them confrontational. But it is hard to analyse rationally when it is happening to you. And for some it is harder than others to deal with.Recognizing, accepting and talking about their emotions/reactions, good and bad will eventually make children more resilient and give them the ability to shrug off nastiness. Best to tell our children, lifes tough for everyone but we can get through the tough stuff through developing coping strategies/self belief etc because everyone has to deal with lifes traumas. Developing resilience is the answer to moving on from adversity and making a success of our lives.
Shane Jones $10m Westland dairy loan could turn out to be costly for New Zealand
Corporate welfare from a man who is slap dash in handling of the tax payers precious hard earned money. This will come back to haunt him and his party at the next election.
Simon Bridges promises to not introduce any new taxes in first term if elected
Bridges also needs to also promote RMA reform which National attempted when in office but did not get support from Maori party, the opposition (Labour, NZF) at the time to make any headway. The new agency Twyford is implementing next year to ram through policy is needed because the RMA paralyses progress on housing and infrastructure development.