Michael Tull has selectively picked on one aspect of life in the USA to support his argument for removing any reference to God in the NZ National Anthem. However, he has conveniently failed to mention that âIn God We Trustâ is the official motto of the USA and these words appear on every bank note.
Her rise to the position of Prime Minister came too quickly and for the wrong reasons. It takes more than smiles and telling people what they want to hear to lead a country. If anyone was in doubt about her inability to lead the country then they only have to look at the Claire Curran debacle this week. If thats how Jacinda handles a messy situation, imagine if shes ever confronted with a really big problem.
I would definitely support this bill. I particularly like that it also applies to New Zealanders who have spent a greater part of their working life overseas and have therefore not been paying the very taxes from which our superannuation payments are derived. This bill could even act as an incentive for people to commit to remaining and working in New Zealand rather than transferring their skills overseas.
Ive lived long enough to have experienced life under both left-wing and right-wing governments. While like most people I have my preference, I have never been concerned that we did not have stable government in this country until now. This current coalition are like a dysfunctional family who cant seem to get it together and should be in therapy not making decisions that affect all New Zealanders.
Good grief - the world as we know it does not grind to a halt, nor are people psychologically scarred, because of the choice to make the father's surname the family name. Keep it simple. There are far more important issues in life to spend time on than this.
I no longer open my door to someone I dont recognize regardless of who they say they are. Its not just about avoiding these hard-sell salespeople but primarily about personal safety.
I have travelled to the US on holiday multiple times over the years and never look forward to the Airport screening process. I find it has increasingly become the norm for the Staff to carry-out their duties in a rude and intimidating manner. I have no plans to go into the USA again unless absolutely necessary.
Its a pity for all of us that Chris Laidlaw doesnt realise that truth of this saying ârefusing to own your mistakes doesnt make you seem more competent; it reveals cowardness, callousness and unworthinessâ.
I am gobsmacked at the attitude of the GWRC over this. Their lack of empathy and concern at the continued disruption to commuters in the Wellington area is appalling. By their own admission this change has been in the planning for years (in fact, 18 years I heard last week), so why should the travelling public now be asked to be patient. After 18 years of planning I would have expected the transition to be fairly seamless. Meanwhile hundreds of commuters are arriving late for work impacting on businesses all over the Wellington area. And I hate to think of those who have missed important medical appointments because of this debacle. If GWRC heads dont roll over this there is no justice.
There is only one absolute certainty in this debate. When you choose not to have your children vaccinated or to be vaccinated yourself you are playing russian roulette with your health (and in some extreme cases your life) and theirs. Hindsight is not a second chance.
Excuses! Excuses! This problem goes back to Celia Wade-Brown's days as Mayor and continued with Justin Lester. I've just put it down to having a GreenMayor and assumed they considered too much street lighting as having some negative impact on the environment.
Yes and no. It also correlates with both parents working full-time and choosing the easy option for meals such as ready-prepared pasta sauces, which everyone knows are high in salt, sugar and other preservatives.
Actually you can support a family on a single average income because I personally know people who do it and pay a mortgage. Its all about âcutting ones coat according to ones clothâ.
There is a greater risk they may be hit by a car and killed crossing the road. Do you never let children leave their own property unescorted in case that happens?
You only have to look at the current situation, where a man who couldn't even win in his own electorate is going to be in charge of the entire country for 6 weeks, to know that the MMP system is seriously flawed.
Great news. I get sick and tired of hearing about Aucklands regional tax. The implication is that Aucklanders pay more for petrol than anywhere else in the country when in reality we pay more here in Wellington and the price is even higher in many parts of the South Island.
Great I hope it catches on. I dont recall the general public ever calling for milk to be sold in plastic containers rather than glass bottles in the first place. It just happened and that was it.
I enjoyed the game. It was a real competition for once. Good to see the new players coming through and doing themselves justice. It bodes well for the continued dominance of the All Blacks.
Its ironic that on the one hand people are encouraged to save for retirement but when they are successful in doing that through investment the Government wants to punish them.
Uh yes you do. Like it or not carbohydrates are our main source of energy and are inportant for brain function. Clearly you need more carbohydrates in your diet because youre not making sense.
The message to New Zealanders for decades has been âtake responsibility for your own retirement income. However, when hardworking kiwis sacrifice and invest to do this they face being penalised for getting ahead.
Not my first choice but at least it makes a change from the sterile light grey colour that people with no imagination keep going for because its considered âtrendyâ.
This is what happens when there is no competition. This current issue with the school students is just the tip of the iceberg. Metlink donâ't care because customer dissatisfaction doesnâ't affect their business. In fact, I would be surprised if too many people in the Company, from drivers through to senior management, even view the public as customers in the same way any other business does. Perhaps, instead of dealing directly with Metlink, pressure should be placed on the local councils to address the issues. After all, it is the councils who are constantly encouraging the use of public transport. And it is not only locals who use the buses but also tourists. The council needs to step-up and address these issues on behalf if the public.
Youre right we cant walk around in bubble wrap our entire lives and ban everything under the sun. But do we have to keep introducing new ways for people to injure themselves?
Saw the movie yesterday. Great cast and absolutely loved it. There were 3 of us that attended and we all agreed that it was even better than the first movie.
The Labour Government and the Union Movement have an extremely close relationship. In fact one could describe it as âbedfellowsâ. So you figure it out.
As harsh as it may seem, Ive stopped feeling sorry for the American people over these incidents. If the majority of American people all over the country rose-up en masse calling for tighter gun laws, something may be done. Sadly it appears not enough of them feel strongly about the issue and find it more important to defend their right âto bear armsâ despite the human cost. I have enjoyed a number of holidays in the States over the years but I no longer consider it a safe destination.
Im not surprised it fell through. Imagine how frustrating it would be to work with this current Council and the Mayor Justin Lester. PJ probably decided in the end it was either call it quits or lose his sanity.
Good on these young people. I hope they remain committed to the cause and continue to gain support. If change to the current gun laws and mentality in the US is ever going to come about ( and that almost seems impossible at this stage) the drive for change is going to have to come from the younger generation.
If youre going to make a bold statement like that you should at least say what your medical/dental qualifications are. Oh and by the way, a degree from Dr Google doesnt count.
And when the Martinborough dog owners take their dogs for a walk, what will they be scooping their poop up with now? Or will it just be left for unsuspecting people to step in like the old days?
Well yes if you keep putting-up obstacle after obstacle after obstacle, then nothing will ever change. Youâ'd be amazed at what determination and a positive attitude can do.
Not really a mystery. David Seymour is still there because of the public vote. Perhaps David is working really hard for his charity and perhaps there are alot of people who want to see Kidsline make as much money as it can and that's why they are voting to keep him in the competition as long ad possible.
I have no issue with the salary because these people basically sacrifice their personal life for their job and are being paid for the anticipated results they will deliver. What I do take issue with is that they then receive bonuses for actually doing the job that they are being paid this massive salary to do in the first place.
Anthem writer Thomas Bracken's anti-Chinese rhetoric 'racist to modern eyes'.
Michael Tull has selectively picked on one aspect of life in the USA to support his argument for removing any reference to God in the NZ National Anthem. However, he has conveniently failed to mention that âIn God We Trustâ is the official motto of the USA and these words appear on every bank note.
Global hype continues to paint Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as a cliche
Her rise to the position of Prime Minister came too quickly and for the wrong reasons. It takes more than smiles and telling people what they want to hear to lead a country. If anyone was in doubt about her inability to lead the country then they only have to look at the Claire Curran debacle this week. If thats how Jacinda handles a messy situation, imagine if shes ever confronted with a really big problem.
Roofer disappears with cash - leaves unfinished roof complete with holes
Im intrigued to know why the neighbour recommended this contractor.
Woman complains after boyfriend buys her a 2.5k engagement ring
I hope he asks for it back when he breaks off the engagement because hes now found out she isnt the person he thought she was.
Wellingtons new bus network hits road for first weekday test
If the new bus network has been âyears in the makingâ there shouldnt be any excuses for things to not run smoothly.
Kiwis overseas could miss out on NZ Super under proposed law change
I would definitely support this bill. I particularly like that it also applies to New Zealanders who have spent a greater part of their working life overseas and have therefore not been paying the very taxes from which our superannuation payments are derived. This bill could even act as an incentive for people to commit to remaining and working in New Zealand rather than transferring their skills overseas.
Hold her close to your heart: Neil and Liam Finn send lullaby to PMs First Baby
I agree. They must have agreed to a pictures being taken and publish of Grandma holding baby in the hospital. That didn't just happen.
First lady Melania Trump's 'I don't care' jacket causes a stir
I can't work out what possessed her to purchase that jacket at any time.
Wellingtons new bus network hits road for first weekday test
Nobody asked for the service to be redesigned. If necessary a slight tweak was all that was needed.
Prime Minister's office admits mistake over Ardern's economic growth 'hint' claim
Ive lived long enough to have experienced life under both left-wing and right-wing governments. While like most people I have my preference, I have never been concerned that we did not have stable government in this country until now. This current coalition are like a dysfunctional family who cant seem to get it together and should be in therapy not making decisions that affect all New Zealanders.
Why did baby Neve get Clarke's surname?
Good grief - the world as we know it does not grind to a halt, nor are people psychologically scarred, because of the choice to make the father's surname the family name. Keep it simple. There are far more important issues in life to spend time on than this.
Anthem writer Thomas Bracken's anti-Chinese rhetoric 'racist to modern eyes'.
Well Michael Tull is the one using the USA as a guideline so what do you think?
Immigration 'breather' halted for regions
I think you'll find they got voted in because they promised the earth and enough New Zealanders were gullible enough to believe they could deliver.
Primary school teachers and principals vote to strike across country
Strikes and taxes - the new norm under a left-wing Government.
Ombudsman rescues 'Betty' from outrageous $3290 vacuum deal
I no longer open my door to someone I dont recognize regardless of who they say they are. Its not just about avoiding these hard-sell salespeople but primarily about personal safety.
US President Donald Trump declares North Korea 'no longer a nuclear threat'
That's all well and good but is the North Korean leader now going to get off scot free for all the atrocities committed by him and his family?
US airport security nibbling away at travellers' patience. This time over snacks.
I have travelled to the US on holiday multiple times over the years and never look forward to the Airport screening process. I find it has increasingly become the norm for the Staff to carry-out their duties in a rude and intimidating manner. I have no plans to go into the USA again unless absolutely necessary.
Visually-impaired Wellington resident hit hard by bus changes
Its a pity for all of us that Chris Laidlaw doesnt realise that truth of this saying ârefusing to own your mistakes doesnt make you seem more competent; it reveals cowardness, callousness and unworthinessâ.
No regional fuel tax for Wellington as Minister categorically rules it out
Wellingtonians and South Islanders are still paying more for petrol than Aucklanders so stop complaining.
"Wellington councillor offers to hand in portfolios in stoush with Mayor",
Simon Woolf was the one who took that gorgeous photo of baby Prince George cuddling into his mother during the playdate at Government House in 2014.
Significant disruption expected for Wellington bus services during driver strike
I am gobsmacked at the attitude of the GWRC over this. Their lack of empathy and concern at the continued disruption to commuters in the Wellington area is appalling. By their own admission this change has been in the planning for years (in fact, 18 years I heard last week), so why should the travelling public now be asked to be patient. After 18 years of planning I would have expected the transition to be fairly seamless. Meanwhile hundreds of commuters are arriving late for work impacting on businesses all over the Wellington area. And I hate to think of those who have missed important medical appointments because of this debacle. If GWRC heads dont roll over this there is no justice.
Australian Government begins fining parents who don't vaccinate their kids
There is only one absolute certainty in this debate. When you choose not to have your children vaccinated or to be vaccinated yourself you are playing russian roulette with your health (and in some extreme cases your life) and theirs. Hindsight is not a second chance.
How did transport planners get Wellington's new bus network so wrong?
The most important lesson to take out of this isIF IT AINT BROKE DONT FIX IT!!!
Wellington's in the dark but who's responsible for the faulty street lights?
Excuses! Excuses! This problem goes back to Celia Wade-Brown's days as Mayor and continued with Justin Lester. I've just put it down to having a GreenMayor and assumed they considered too much street lighting as having some negative impact on the environment.
Kiwi adolescents weigh more and are less fit than their parents were, study finds
Yes and no. It also correlates with both parents working full-time and choosing the easy option for meals such as ready-prepared pasta sauces, which everyone knows are high in salt, sugar and other preservatives.
Heres why youre not paying off your mortgage
Actually you can support a family on a single average income because I personally know people who do it and pay a mortgage. Its all about âcutting ones coat according to ones clothâ.
Council orders removal of 'non-compliant' Dunedin tree house
There is a greater risk they may be hit by a car and killed crossing the road. Do you never let children leave their own property unescorted in case that happens?
Duncan Garner: Stay calm, everyone, Winstons got this
You only have to look at the current situation, where a man who couldn't even win in his own electorate is going to be in charge of the entire country for 6 weeks, to know that the MMP system is seriously flawed.
Nine million-dollar suburbs for Wellington as house values jump nearly 50 per cent
I agree. Broadmeadows isnt really a suburb, its just a transitional point between Khandallah and Johnsonville.
"Pain at the pump could ease for Wellington motorists with Waitomo securing capital site",
Great news. I get sick and tired of hearing about Aucklands regional tax. The implication is that Aucklanders pay more for petrol than anywhere else in the country when in reality we pay more here in Wellington and the price is even higher in many parts of the South Island.
Glass bottles of full cream milk may soon be delivered to Wairarapa doorsteps
Great I hope it catches on. I dont recall the general public ever calling for milk to be sold in plastic containers rather than glass bottles in the first place. It just happened and that was it.
Call to link NZ Super age to health expectancy could mean working until 70
And how do you differentiate between the needy and those who have squandered their earnings over the years?
The All Blacks are entitled to a bit of praise for seeing off tough Pumas side
I enjoyed the game. It was a real competition for once. Good to see the new players coming through and doing themselves justice. It bodes well for the continued dominance of the All Blacks.
Outsourcing Government: The $55m cost of reviews
I agree. When they were in opposition they had all the answers.
Significant disruption expected for Wellington bus services during driver strike
Blind understanding is not always a virtue.
Civil disobedience could be next step for disgruntled Wellington bus commuters
Just because the new system is working for you does not mean that many Wellingtonians have not been hugely adversely inconvenienced because of the changes. Have some empathy for others. I wonder if you would be so blasé if you had an elderly relative who was now having to make several bus transfers on a route that previously required one bus service.
Accountants fume over 'perfect storm' at Inland Revenue
Completed my IR3 tax return online a couple of weeks ago. Everything went smoothly and my refund was in my bank account within a couple of days.
"Simon Bridges says phone call recorded by Jami-Lee Ross doesn't stack up",
Picking on someone because of the way they speak is called bullying.
Prince George turns five with a smile
And your credentials for knowing how a royal child should be dressed are ???
Capital gains tax punishes hard work
Its ironic that on the one hand people are encouraged to save for retirement but when they are successful in doing that through investment the Government wants to punish them.
Bus shelter blocks entrance to newly built town houses
Sadly Im not surprised. Too many people out there making decisions who are âa few sandwiches short of a picnicâ.
"Pain at the pump could ease for Wellington motorists with Waitomo securing capital site",
Actually Gull have recently announced they are planning to expand into the Wellington region.
Primary teachers and principals strike for first time since 1994
Then why didnt they go on strike during the 9 years National was in power?
The All Blacks are entitled to a bit of praise for seeing off tough Pumas side
Heard of Wales Mimibelle?
Strike planned for Air NZs busiest day before Christmas
So why did we not see workers striking during that 9 year period if things were so bad?
Breaking Bread: The power of the $1 loaf
Uh yes you do. Like it or not carbohydrates are our main source of energy and are inportant for brain function. Clearly you need more carbohydrates in your diet because youre not making sense.
Millennials are rejecting the 9-5 workday
If youre working 60+ hours a week you have probably convinced yourself its necessary so you dont feel bad. Sorry but its not.
Tax Working Group reaches consensus on introducing capital gains tax
The message to New Zealanders for decades has been âtake responsibility for your own retirement income. However, when hardworking kiwis sacrifice and invest to do this they face being penalised for getting ahead.
Dancing With The Stars NZ: Judges eliminate Marama Fox in new-look process
It doesn't matter what you think about David Seymour, he is still in the competition because people are voting for him.
England offside call borderline, says All Blacks great Christian Cullen
If they were the better team they would have won.
The Block NZ: Caramel walls, yay or nay?
Not my first choice but at least it makes a change from the sterile light grey colour that people with no imagination keep going for because its considered âtrendyâ.
School pupils' letter outlines dissatisfaction with new bus contractor
This is what happens when there is no competition. This current issue with the school students is just the tip of the iceberg. Metlink donâ't care because customer dissatisfaction doesnâ't affect their business. In fact, I would be surprised if too many people in the Company, from drivers through to senior management, even view the public as customers in the same way any other business does. Perhaps, instead of dealing directly with Metlink, pressure should be placed on the local councils to address the issues. After all, it is the councils who are constantly encouraging the use of public transport. And it is not only locals who use the buses but also tourists. The council needs to step-up and address these issues on behalf if the public.
Dotcom should not be handed over to face Trump's idea of justice
So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, adieu.
3 dead, 7 wounded after gunmen in New Orleans fire on crowd
Name a european country that features as much in the news for mass shootings as the USA.
Root canal or braces likely needed after Auckland Lime e-scooter crash
Youre right we cant walk around in bubble wrap our entire lives and ban everything under the sun. But do we have to keep introducing new ways for people to injure themselves?
Dancing With The Stars NZ: Samantha Hayes wins finale
You are aware there are other channels besides TV3?
Clearly onside - English media berate call that cost England win against All Blacks
Well you obviously care because not only do you know the result of the game, you took time to read this article and comment on it.
New Zealanders would be lost without ABBA
Saw the movie yesterday. Great cast and absolutely loved it. There were 3 of us that attended and we all agreed that it was even better than the first movie.
The 20-hour flight is coming. And it may have a gym and bunks.
WHY??? Who in their right mind wants to sit on a plane for 20hours? Its bad enough travelling for that length of time with transit stops.
IRD pleads for patience as MBIE/IRD staff strike again
I guess when she returns from parental leave, which should be very soon, we will see a halt to all this industrial action???
Bat's head seized at Auckland Airport
Ok not sure that is a recommendation. Can't imagine anything worse than raw chicken.
Strike planned for Air NZs busiest day before Christmas
The Labour Government and the Union Movement have an extremely close relationship. In fact one could describe it as âbedfellowsâ. So you figure it out.
3 dead, 7 wounded after gunmen in New Orleans fire on crowd
As harsh as it may seem, Ive stopped feeling sorry for the American people over these incidents. If the majority of American people all over the country rose-up en masse calling for tighter gun laws, something may be done. Sadly it appears not enough of them feel strongly about the issue and find it more important to defend their right âto bear armsâ despite the human cost. I have enjoyed a number of holidays in the States over the years but I no longer consider it a safe destination.
Director's cut: how Sir Peter Jackson's movie museum deal with Wellington's council collapsed
Im not surprised it fell through. Imagine how frustrating it would be to work with this current Council and the Mayor Justin Lester. PJ probably decided in the end it was either call it quits or lose his sanity.
Parkland students continue push for gun control and voter registration
Good on these young people. I hope they remain committed to the cause and continue to gain support. If change to the current gun laws and mentality in the US is ever going to come about ( and that almost seems impossible at this stage) the drive for change is going to have to come from the younger generation.
Natural toothpaste will lead to epidemic of dental decay: dentists
If youre going to make a bold statement like that you should at least say what your medical/dental qualifications are. Oh and by the way, a degree from Dr Google doesnt count.
Clearly onside - English media berate call that cost England win against All Blacks
The description âwhinging pomâ comes to mind right now.
Michael Cheika quits as Wallabies coach after Rugby World Cup exit to England
My sentiments exactly.
A Wairarapa town is going plastic bag free and is challenging others to do it too
And when the Martinborough dog owners take their dogs for a walk, what will they be scooping their poop up with now? Or will it just be left for unsuspecting people to step in like the old days?
Auckland: NZ's most leave-able city?
Well yes if you keep putting-up obstacle after obstacle after obstacle, then nothing will ever change. Youâ'd be amazed at what determination and a positive attitude can do.
Dancing With The Stars NZ: Roger Farrelly is eliminated after team dance-off
Not really a mystery. David Seymour is still there because of the public vote. Perhaps David is working really hard for his charity and perhaps there are alot of people who want to see Kidsline make as much money as it can and that's why they are voting to keep him in the competition as long ad possible.
Milking it: NZs milk price: Whos getting rich?
Milk is our best source of calcium which is essential if you dont want to end up with brittle bones.
Dancing With The Stars NZ: Judges eliminate Marama Fox in new-look process
At the end of the day the main concept (result) of the show is to raise money for charity.
Why not be a world leader on cannabis reform, instead of a follower?
Just in case we dont have enough issues with the addictive substances that are legal in this country, lets throw another one into the mix.
All eyes are on the 15 men and women in $2 million club of executives
I have no issue with the salary because these people basically sacrifice their personal life for their job and are being paid for the anticipated results they will deliver. What I do take issue with is that they then receive bonuses for actually doing the job that they are being paid this massive salary to do in the first place.
Family selling deceased estate remembers Ponsonby 'the way it used to be'
What I don't understand is why this family hasn't bothered to maximise their return on this property by making simple cosmetic upgrades.