You prank the whole country with Mark Richardsons daily diatribes. That joke is far worse than some radio show almost nobody has heard of.If RNZ should apologise for a sketch, the AM show should apologise for existing.
David Seymours working year began on January 30. That was parliaments first day back after the summer break. Those of us who had to go back to work a month earlier would like Mr Seymours long paid vacations, at the taxpayers expense. Until then, well keep our Christmas/NewYear break, thanks very much.
Over the past 2 months Simon Bridges - along with several National MPs, and hordes of followers on here - has sought to blame people outside his party for the leak. Bridges has (on the record) at various times blamed the Prime Minister for seeking a distraction, the Speaker for not investigating, and - worst of all - has smeared Parliamentary Services.Politicians (Ardern, Mallard etc) can look after themselves. But professional, neutral public servants cannot answer back. Bridges owes them an apology.
In their own words, and on this website:Aug 14:Im incredibly confident its not going to be a National MP. I have a bit of an understanding and sense of things here, but ultimately Im confident its not going to be a National MP, Bridges said. ...National MP Jami-Lee Ross said he doubted the leak came from within National and denied leaking it himself. ... Ross said he had absolute confidence in his leader and the party was unified.(reported by Stacey Kirk, Stuff)
Think about that for a moment.I sell it for $500,000 and the local buyer then on-sells it to an offshore buyer for $700,000. Ive made a noble sacrifice ... and not changed the market one little bit. Thats why we have laws. Relying on sellers being self-denying saints is not a policy, its a fantasy.
Suggestion for the frothers:If you criticise the government for specific policies and actions, people might listen. But when you attack the PM for simply being there and promoting NZ in the world media, you just look petty and obsessive. She is doing what any PM would and should, and we all gain from that. Calm down, and breathe.
It was long overdue. Of course the horse has bolted, so it wont make a huge difference now. But its better than doing nothing, which is all National were going to do.Today every National MP voted against this law. Do not forget, do not let them fool you.
Lets take off the party blinkers for once. This issue affects all of us. The public deserve to know ...- who funds our politicians, and what they get in return- how candidates are selected for the party listsJust saying nothing to see here is not good enough. Theres plenty to see. We need much greater transparency, so we can see it.
Theres something really nauseating about all this. Suddenly National MPs and their spinners are claiming all these terrible things about Jami-Lee Ross. Apparently hes behaved badly for years - in local Auckland politics, and in Parliament. Allegations of harassment, all coming out now.So why didnt they tell US before? If any of it is 1 (and I have no idea if it is) then why has the National Party been protecting this no-good guy? Why have they been telling us to vote for him?Either the allegations are dirty and 0, or National have been covering up. Which is it?
A lot of folks are missing the point. Confused about a zero sum game.National v Labour, Bridges v Ardern: thats the usual game, with a winner and loser. But Nat vs Nat is only lose-lose. So its irrelevant if Bridges sees off Jami-Lee Ross (which he probably will). Its NOT a Win. Ross doesnt need to win, only to wound Bridges before hes finished. And hes doing that.
This is dumb politics from National.People who disagree with government policies want the opposition to focus on that. Not childish games. Only a tiny minority gets worked up about the goings-on in Parliament. Big picture please, Paula.
If the so-called training establishments offer high quality education, they will prosper. If they offer a Diploma in Pizza Delivering and Visa Scamming, then they wont. Good.What a spokesperson says is meaningless, the reality can be found by any reporter who goes inside many of those classrooms. Ghost students and unqualified teachers.
From the article: He also said National would increase funding for core public services like health, education and transport.So, they will spend even more than this government, but how? Well, another way to raise money is to sell things instead. Will National guarantee no asset sales? No more selling our future offshore? If not, why not?
The funniest thing was TV3s graphic claiming the Greens would be Kingmaker. At the last election the chances of the Greens supporting National were slim. Since then ...Slim has left town.
It says so much about the National party and their supporters that a brief interview by their former leader attracts bigger headlines and far more comments than a major speech given by their current leader, today. Poor Simon. Not even helped by those on his own team.
I have banned Kaley Cuoco and Sam Hayes from my room. They didnt show up when I told them to!That will teach them. Im important, and will ban anyone else who turns me down.
I have no interest at all in what Manning has to say. But no fear, either. So, whats the issue? The NZ public can cope.Somebody should be popping up and quoting Voltaire some time soon ... unless that free speech talk was all fake.
Real estate agent. Property coach. Consultancy company.None of these people are making things, growing things, exporting things, or doing anything except clip the ticket on the money-go-round. If they all went on strike tomorrow it wouldnt matter a damn.Thank goodness the rort is slowing down, even if not yet over.
This teacher tells you: The first requirement for a student is not that they bring in money. It is turning up to class. Studying. Not passing for cash. Not devaluing other students work. (Would you go to a school that took money and didnt care what for? Would you hire somebody who had a bit of paper from there? Be honest).Some teachers still have professional pride. Support them.
Its sad that some people are so desperately hoping for bad news. Just so that they can go Cindy, told ya!. Big picture: the economy overall is doing fine. The dodgy economy (fake visa schools, dishonest real estate agents, consultants and ticket-clippers) is taking a hit. THATs why we needed a change of government.Every day we hear the snake oil sellers in the media, telling you how their self-serving scam is SO important for the economy .... and now we know that simply isnt 1.
Actually it *has* changed. The expenses are now made public, there is much more transparency around MPs spending. I didnt have much time for John Key, but that was one thing he introduced that we should all support. Bridges spending is an embarrassment for National, but hes not corrupt, hes just politically inept.
Try fewer insults, more insights. Trusts are the preferred mechanism for a large percentage of non-resident buyers. Thats why they dont show up in headline stats.
Youve nailed the real problem for Bridges. I heard the same interview (and similar ones).Perhaps nothing will come of Ross allegations, and after the by-election Ross will be forgotten. BUT that is irrelevant. What this whole saga has shown is that Bridges lacks basic political skills.He seems to believe that constantly repeating the same non-answer is good communication. It isnt. It turns people right off.
We dont have to choose between Team Bridges and Team Ross.They were on the same nasty team. Now Ross has turned on Bridges, and his secret recording is obviously the work of somebody you cant trust.Doesnt change the fact that Bridges is not the guy to lead National or (God help us) the country. That needs better character standards than Not Jami-Lee Ross. MUCH better.
Facts: What is. Figures: Measuring what is.Forecasts: Predicting what will be.Confidence Surveys: Feelings. The first two are essential, the third is debatable, but the fourth ... is meaningless. And in this case, a fraud.
Yep.Bridges needs better friends. People who can tell him Thats dumb, lets not do it.Nodding sycophants are the last thing he needs. But thats his caucus.
There are often some wacky comments on here, but Ive never seen anybody call for a military coup before. I think even the Nats would say youve gone too far there.
Article quotes a group representing investors. I am a group representing property-owners. Only two of us, but it justifies use of the plural. Conveniently misleading.For the record, this group quoted in the report has no membership, no elections, no official status, nothing whatsoever to justify such a description. No transparency, no information on website - nothing. The number of people required to write a blog is ... one. Please dont be fooled.
I think were looking at this from the wrong end of the telescope.Its not Why do political people go into Parliament?. Its Why DONT more people from different backgrounds want to?.The events of the last few weeks are a clue. If you are reasonably competent and successful, in medicine or engineering or horticulture, why would you want to give up that job satisfaction and respect to join a poisonous playground?
We dont need political spin on this. The answer is obvious: just DONT go there.Left, right, centre, whatever - stay away from private lives, leave families alone. Otherwise, we all lose.
Leave Bridges alone.All of us big bad lefties want Simon to stay. Hes the governments best friend. Any more of this talk and hell get dumped by National. We dont want that. SOS ... Save Our Simon!
I dont think Bridges spending is crime of the century.BUT some of you on here were screaming Resign when Phil Twyford used a phone on a plane. That was trivial but free. Bridges is trivial but expensive. Dont start calling for a sense of perspective if you lost yours when it suited you before.
In the last 24 hours Ive seen/heard Peters give interviews on TV and radio, and hold a press conference in the Beehive, and be reported in the papers. Duncan Garner is not NZ media.
He did NOT stick to his guns. He made 0 accusations, with zero evidence. He tried to persuade the public that it was not a National MP. He even blamed the Speaker because he could read body language!Take a moment to read his statements and interviews over the past 2 months. Consistently wrong.
I used to own a house. Lived there for 9 years. Last year I split up with my partner, so now she owns the house. I cant live there any more. But to be fair ... she found my old bike, which I already owned, and put it on Trade Me, but I outbid her, even though it was already mine.Im the REAL winner!
All this convicted criminal line is really dishonest. Convicted by who? For what?Be honest. You like some countries systems, you dont like others. You condemn some convicted people, you regard others as innocent, or even heroes. Jesus was a convicted criminal.If Tommy Robinson wants to visit NZ, will all the same voices shout No way? Hes a convicted criminal ... but hes on your team, so thats OK.
Some right-wingers commenting and complaining here should pause for a moment. Shouldnt you be welcoming this?The voice of business INSIDE Parliament is self-destructing. Nationals credibility is in tatters.So you should be glad that there is a voice outside Parliament. The government is not going to take Simon Bridges seriously (who does?) but they might listen to Luxon, Hurrell etc. You need to have somebody offering a different view to Labour. So be happy that its these people. They probably dont all hate each other.
So what would we be getting if Keys government WAS still here?More selling NZ offshore. Tax dodges for the richest. Health and education still neglected. Housing crisis? Oh wait, there isnt one! Because John Key said so. Nothing to see here, hooray!No, John, we havent forgotten already. Enjoy your retirement, weve moved on.
First, leave the cemeteries alone.Second, not all homes have to be ugly, soulless developments. New suburbs out east are hideous, pseudo-American deserts. And some central Auckland tower blocks are future slums.Look at older buildings like warehouses, and turn them into livable apartments, with character. Its not just about houses, but NEIGHBOURHOODS. (Which developers dont have to live in, so they dont care).
Is there a glimmer of hope here that National are finally starting to understand?So far all theyve done is oppose anything and everything. But if they went to Labour and said how about these limited RMA reforms? then the 2 parties could reach a deal. Not as much as some on the Right would want, but more than the Greens would want. A compromise. BUT to do that requires some humility from National. No more acting like they are the real government, having a brief, temporary break from their rightful position in power. So ... I cant see it happening. Hope they prove me wrong.
A partial ban is a step forward. There are many others, such as re-balancing the tax system, so that not working (property accumulation) is taxed more, and working is taxed less.The status quo has to change. This is no longer in dispute. Propose alternative measures if you want, but please dont pretend doing nothing is the only answer. Weve tried that already, it failed.
The Commerce Commission has been in existence for over 30 years, including 18 years of National governments. It is not a working group. So there is no huge cost to the taxpayer, because the Commission is already there. Would you rather they did no work, while still getting paid?
Gaza69 has (unintentionally) summed up the problem for Bridges.To believe in the crazy conspiracy theory, you have to keep adding more and more culprits. Theyre ALL in the cover-up! So now its not only Mallard and Ardern and Peters and parliamentary staff and the reporters, its the police as well (how many police officers would you like to include with that?). The alternative explanation requires just one person. Which it was.
The government didnt roll over. If you believe nurses deserve better pay and conditions, then you will support better funding for DHBs. The govts job is to provide the investment, the DHBs job is to allocate it. The unions job is to stand up for their workers, and they did.National have been total hypocrites on this. Bridges says he supports the nurses ... but not when he was in government and could DO something about it.
Genuine question: Did you watch the Bridges press conference?Confident? Robotic repetition and refusing to answer simple Qs. If thats what National want, they can have it. The voters will be wanting a human being.
Whereas the President of China, king of Saudi Arabia, and numerous other dictators have been welcomed to our shores.They are responsible for countless deaths and human rights abuses ... but they make the laws in their countries, so its all good?
Comments that say Too high coz I dont like THIS PM are infantile. Try to raise your level of understanding and debate. In general PMs in NZ probably are overpaid, but lets not pretend it makes any difference to whether National or Labour or whoever do a good job in government.Trump would happily be President for free. What kind of saving is that?
Former National MP Mike Sabin probably thinks the taxpayers money for his meth testing company was well spent. But then, he wasnt called a consultant. Not by National anyway.
National would do themselves a big favour if they simply select an actual human being as their By-election candidate.But they probably wont. Itll be another on-message robot from the politician factory. Which is exactly why the voters are losing interest.
Simon says: National will invest more ... spend more on education.Your government certainly didnt think so. Teachers didnt feel valued by you before, why should they believe you now?
What a shame that a heartfelt column about cancer is used as another tired excuse for Labour-bashing in the comments. Until 2017 it was the same Pharmac, and the same system. Having the blue team instead of red made no difference. Which drugs were withdrawn by the new government?
When the bores say Government doing nothing, only baby photo ops, this is exactly the kind of important work that they are ignoring (or not bothering to read about). The Panama papers came out, John Key told us there was no problem, nothing to see here. He was wrong, and eventually Bill English set him straight. Now the government is taking the kind of steps that should have happened years ago. Good.
Socks, T-shirts, boxer shorts, tattoos, backwards baseball hats, even condoms. The flag is dishonoured every day.Also, its usually made in China. But patriotically made, no doubt.
Whether you like Winston or not (Im not a fan) its good to see a politician treat Garner with all the respect he deserves ... none.Threw a tanty, desperate for ratings, nobody cared.
Funny how some people claim to believe in freedom ... until it inconveniences them, even slightly. If the mayor or government banned cycling in Wellington there would be cries of nanny state. Not least from the National party, who the writer worked for. Oh, irony.
Mentally agile is a nice way of putting it!Its painful to hear him repeat his prepared phrases, and then struggle when he goes off script ... Heres the deal, At the end of the day, The reality is.
People are free to believe whatever they want. If they need to believe that 2 plus 2 = 137, nobody can stop them.But they probably shouldnt be employed to teach mathematics. I believe that houses stay up by magic. Want me to build yours?
It isnt 3%. Try reading beyond the headlines, to the details. It is universally accepted that workaround mechanisms such as trusts do NOT show up in the percentage, but DO include non-residents.
Heres what Simon Bridges needs to say today ... but wont:After my expenses were leaked I wanted to find the culprit. But instead of waiting for the investigation, I decided to blame a whole lot of people who had NOTHING to do with the leak. I just wanted to distract and deny. I had no evidence whatsoever, and now we all know I was wrong.So today I am apologising to the Speaker, the Prime Minister, the Parliamentary officials and the other MPs. I accused them, because I was - in my own words - incredibly confident that the leaker was not a National MP. I feel like a fool. I am sorry.
This is a sound analysis, but its not clear that National are ready to hear it. There are 2 questions which will not go away, and it simply doesnt matter how much anybody dislikes the government or says what about ... what about. Mathematics is not blue, red or green. Its colour-blind. 1. Can Simon Bridges achieve what John Key could not, even though Key was the most popular PM in polling history?2. If not, how will National get to 61?
What are the hourly expenses for a QC to investigate the release of information about expenses?How about ... all MPs sign a statement, like this:I did not leak the information, and as proof of my word, I insist that the entire cost of the investigation must be deducted from my salary, if I am guilty. That will flush out Simons enemy from caucus, and wont cost the taxpayer a cent!
Well said. I think of the Nats I grew up with, including neighbours and relatives. My uncle the farmer. My bro-in-law running a small business. Decent, community-minded people. Their politics were more conservative than mine, so I didnt vote National - we disagreed. But they had NOTHING in common with the sleazy, cynical manipulators who are the face of National today. You can be right of centre and still be a decent human being. I hope National find somebody like that to represent them.
John Howard visits NZ, slags off MMP, gets standing ovation from National party conference.Well ... the last PM spill in NZ was way back in 1997 (Bolger/Shipley). Whereas Australia has one every five minutes. Maybe time for a little less lecturing, a little more looking in the mirror?
As with all these groups that suddenly appear out of nowhere with an obvious agenda and headline-grabbing names, it pays to look a little deeper. Just as the Taxpayers Union doesnt represent taxpayers, this is NOT an official landlords representative, at all. Its yet another Dirty Politics astroturf job, fronted by a spokesman who previously bashed Treaty settlements and pushed other far Right barrows.No more Churnalism please - dont just copy and paste propaganda, but ask the basic questions.
Simon Bridges supports the nurses strike. Thats nice.Simon Bridges the government minister (2008-2017) was a totally different person, who had nothing to do with funding decisions (he was asleep in Cabinet at the time).
The AM Show: Duncan Garner slams RNZ show for aneurysm 'prank'
You prank the whole country with Mark Richardsons daily diatribes. That joke is far worse than some radio show almost nobody has heard of.If RNZ should apologise for a sketch, the AM show should apologise for existing.
"Trade Me auction which made fun of Bridges-Ross saga pulled",
I remember the good old days, when I could afford a house, Now all I can buy is a political party.
David Seymour wants to cancel public holidays - Anzac and Waitangi can stay
David Seymours working year began on January 30. That was parliaments first day back after the summer break. Those of us who had to go back to work a month earlier would like Mr Seymours long paid vacations, at the taxpayers expense. Until then, well keep our Christmas/NewYear break, thanks very much.
Millionaire Craig Heatley rates Jacinda Ardern at book launch shared with John Key
Book Title: No Limits, by the man who bankrolled the ACT party.Id say about 1% is your limit.
"National leader Simon Bridges needs his MPs 100 per cent behind him
Over the past 2 months Simon Bridges - along with several National MPs, and hordes of followers on here - has sought to blame people outside his party for the leak. Bridges has (on the record) at various times blamed the Prime Minister for seeking a distraction, the Speaker for not investigating, and - worst of all - has smeared Parliamentary Services.Politicians (Ardern, Mallard etc) can look after themselves. But professional, neutral public servants cannot answer back. Bridges owes them an apology.
"National leader Simon Bridges needs his MPs 100 per cent behind him
In their own words, and on this website:Aug 14:Im incredibly confident its not going to be a National MP. I have a bit of an understanding and sense of things here, but ultimately Im confident its not going to be a National MP, Bridges said. ...National MP Jami-Lee Ross said he doubted the leak came from within National and denied leaking it himself. ... Ross said he had absolute confidence in his leader and the party was unified.(reported by Stacey Kirk, Stuff)
Chinese investors spooked by foreign buyer ban, says website
Think about that for a moment.I sell it for $500,000 and the local buyer then on-sells it to an offshore buyer for $700,000. Ive made a noble sacrifice ... and not changed the market one little bit. Thats why we have laws. Relying on sellers being self-denying saints is not a policy, its a fantasy.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appears on Today show
Suggestion for the frothers:If you criticise the government for specific policies and actions, people might listen. But when you attack the PM for simply being there and promoting NZ in the world media, you just look petty and obsessive. She is doing what any PM would and should, and we all gain from that. Calm down, and breathe.
Jacinda Ardern and Winston Peters on making their relationship work
Getting along a lot better than Simon and Judith.
Labour's bill to curb foreigners buying New Zealand homes becomes law
It was long overdue. Of course the horse has bolted, so it wont make a huge difference now. But its better than doing nothing, which is all National were going to do.Today every National MP voted against this law. Do not forget, do not let them fool you.
"Chinese businessman Yikun Zhang 'disappointed' in being named in Jami-Lee Ross scandal",
Lets take off the party blinkers for once. This issue affects all of us. The public deserve to know ...- who funds our politicians, and what they get in return- how candidates are selected for the party listsJust saying nothing to see here is not good enough. Theres plenty to see. We need much greater transparency, so we can see it.
"Explosive allegations before disgraced MP Jami-Lee Ross quits National Party, forcing by-election",
Theres something really nauseating about all this. Suddenly National MPs and their spinners are claiming all these terrible things about Jami-Lee Ross. Apparently hes behaved badly for years - in local Auckland politics, and in Parliament. Allegations of harassment, all coming out now.So why didnt they tell US before? If any of it is 1 (and I have no idea if it is) then why has the National Party been protecting this no-good guy? Why have they been telling us to vote for him?Either the allegations are dirty and 0, or National have been covering up. Which is it?
" After a horrendous day, Nats leader Simon Bridges is still standing - for now",
A lot of folks are missing the point. Confused about a zero sum game.National v Labour, Bridges v Ardern: thats the usual game, with a winner and loser. But Nat vs Nat is only lose-lose. So its irrelevant if Bridges sees off Jami-Lee Ross (which he probably will). Its NOT a Win. Ross doesnt need to win, only to wound Bridges before hes finished. And hes doing that.
Paula Bennett storms out of Question Time, saying Speakers rulings are dangerous for democracy
This is dumb politics from National.People who disagree with government policies want the opposition to focus on that. Not childish games. Only a tiny minority gets worked up about the goings-on in Parliament. Big picture please, Paula.
Drop of 44,000 international students forecast if work-visa rule change goes ahead
If the so-called training establishments offer high quality education, they will prosper. If they offer a Diploma in Pizza Delivering and Visa Scamming, then they wont. Good.What a spokesperson says is meaningless, the reality can be found by any reporter who goes inside many of those classrooms. Ghost students and unqualified teachers.
Simon Bridges promises to not introduce any new taxes in first term if elected
From the article: He also said National would increase funding for core public services like health, education and transport.So, they will spend even more than this government, but how? Well, another way to raise money is to sell things instead. Will National guarantee no asset sales? No more selling our future offshore? If not, why not?
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
The funniest thing was TV3s graphic claiming the Greens would be Kingmaker. At the last election the chances of the Greens supporting National were slim. Since then ...Slim has left town.
John Key delivers stark warning on the economy, endorses Simon Bridges as leader
It says so much about the National party and their supporters that a brief interview by their former leader attracts bigger headlines and far more comments than a major speech given by their current leader, today. Poor Simon. Not even helped by those on his own team.
The AM Show: Winston's naughty ban revoked, but he's a no show
I have banned Kaley Cuoco and Sam Hayes from my room. They didnt show up when I told them to!That will teach them. Im important, and will ban anyone else who turns me down.
National wants Chelsea Manning barred from New Zealand
I have no interest at all in what Manning has to say. But no fear, either. So, whats the issue? The NZ public can cope.Somebody should be popping up and quoting Voltaire some time soon ... unless that free speech talk was all fake.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern appears on Today show
They can probably afford the internet. Its not the 1970s any more.
Slice of pristine South Island high country 'should finally become national park'
Sand by for the usual flurry of comments from people who dont bother to read the conditions of sale.
Foreign investors 'not to be blamed for housing crisis'
Real estate agent. Property coach. Consultancy company.None of these people are making things, growing things, exporting things, or doing anything except clip the ticket on the money-go-round. If they all went on strike tomorrow it wouldnt matter a damn.Thank goodness the rort is slowing down, even if not yet over.
Donald Trump: The illegitimate US president
What about ... Look over there ...The last, weakest defence of the indefensible.
Drop of 44,000 international students forecast if work-visa rule change goes ahead
This teacher tells you: The first requirement for a student is not that they bring in money. It is turning up to class. Studying. Not passing for cash. Not devaluing other students work. (Would you go to a school that took money and didnt care what for? Would you hire somebody who had a bit of paper from there? Be honest).Some teachers still have professional pride. Support them.
CTU blasts campaign by 'vested interests', as NZ economic growth surprises
Its sad that some people are so desperately hoping for bad news. Just so that they can go Cindy, told ya!. Big picture: the economy overall is doing fine. The dodgy economy (fake visa schools, dishonest real estate agents, consultants and ticket-clippers) is taking a hit. THATs why we needed a change of government.Every day we hear the snake oil sellers in the media, telling you how their self-serving scam is SO important for the economy .... and now we know that simply isnt 1.
Opposition leader Simon Bridges says the country has been forced into wasting millions
Actually it *has* changed. The expenses are now made public, there is much more transparency around MPs spending. I didnt have much time for John Key, but that was one thing he introduced that we should all support. Bridges spending is an embarrassment for National, but hes not corrupt, hes just politically inept.
Labour's bill to curb foreigners buying New Zealand homes becomes law
Try fewer insults, more insights. Trusts are the preferred mechanism for a large percentage of non-resident buyers. Thats why they dont show up in headline stats.
" After a horrendous day, Nats leader Simon Bridges is still standing - for now",
Youve nailed the real problem for Bridges. I heard the same interview (and similar ones).Perhaps nothing will come of Ross allegations, and after the by-election Ross will be forgotten. BUT that is irrelevant. What this whole saga has shown is that Bridges lacks basic political skills.He seems to believe that constantly repeating the same non-answer is good communication. It isnt. It turns people right off.
Nurses' strike called off after district health boards improve offer
Nic +1. We had a rock star economy for real estate agents. Try asking them for help when were sick.
"Jami-Lee Ross and Simon Bridges' phone call transcript",
We dont have to choose between Team Bridges and Team Ross.They were on the same nasty team. Now Ross has turned on Bridges, and his secret recording is obviously the work of somebody you cant trust.Doesnt change the fact that Bridges is not the guy to lead National or (God help us) the country. That needs better character standards than Not Jami-Lee Ross. MUCH better.
BusinessNZ admits error in business confidence survey that 'lacked validity'
Facts: What is. Figures: Measuring what is.Forecasts: Predicting what will be.Confidence Surveys: Feelings. The first two are essential, the third is debatable, but the fourth ... is meaningless. And in this case, a fraud.
" After a horrendous day, Nats leader Simon Bridges is still standing - for now",
Yep.Bridges needs better friends. People who can tell him Thats dumb, lets not do it.Nodding sycophants are the last thing he needs. But thats his caucus.
The AM Show: Winston's naughty ban revoked, but he's a no show
There are often some wacky comments on here, but Ive never seen anybody call for a military coup before. I think even the Nats would say youve gone too far there.
Air New Zealand won't drop Taiwan references
I hope Air New Zealand continues to respect Taiwan. Unlike China, it is a democracy, and we should stand by them.
Removing MÄori seats too divisive, Bridges says
So thats a yes or a no, and then a yes or a no, or possibly a yes/no.Dont ask Simon Bridges if he wants tea or coffee, youll be there all day.
Rental properties could end up better than landlords homes
Article quotes a group representing investors. I am a group representing property-owners. Only two of us, but it justifies use of the plural. Conveniently misleading.For the record, this group quoted in the report has no membership, no elections, no official status, nothing whatsoever to justify such a description. No transparency, no information on website - nothing. The number of people required to write a blog is ... one. Please dont be fooled.
A breed apart? MPs are now birds of a different feather
I think were looking at this from the wrong end of the telescope.Its not Why do political people go into Parliament?. Its Why DONT more people from different backgrounds want to?.The events of the last few weeks are a clue. If you are reasonably competent and successful, in medicine or engineering or horticulture, why would you want to give up that job satisfaction and respect to join a poisonous playground?
"National leak row raises questions about probing MPs' private lives
We dont need political spin on this. The answer is obvious: just DONT go there.Left, right, centre, whatever - stay away from private lives, leave families alone. Otherwise, we all lose.
National begins own inquiry to search for Bridges leaker
Leave Bridges alone.All of us big bad lefties want Simon to stay. Hes the governments best friend. Any more of this talk and hell get dumped by National. We dont want that. SOS ... Save Our Simon!
Opposition leader Simon Bridges says the country has been forced into wasting millions
I dont think Bridges spending is crime of the century.BUT some of you on here were screaming Resign when Phil Twyford used a phone on a plane. That was trivial but free. Bridges is trivial but expensive. Dont start calling for a sense of perspective if you lost yours when it suited you before.
The AM Show: Winston's naughty ban revoked, but he's a no show
In the last 24 hours Ive seen/heard Peters give interviews on TV and radio, and hold a press conference in the Beehive, and be reported in the papers. Duncan Garner is not NZ media.
"Where the Jami-Lee Ross crisis engulfing National and Simon Bridges goes today",
He did NOT stick to his guns. He made 0 accusations, with zero evidence. He tried to persuade the public that it was not a National MP. He even blamed the Speaker because he could read body language!Take a moment to read his statements and interviews over the past 2 months. Consistently wrong.
Northcote by-election no Northland as both National and Labour can claim victory
I used to own a house. Lived there for 9 years. Last year I split up with my partner, so now she owns the house. I cant live there any more. But to be fair ... she found my old bike, which I already owned, and put it on Trade Me, but I outbid her, even though it was already mine.Im the REAL winner!
"Paula Bennett hints auditors could probe donation claim, and suggests Jami-Lee Ross to blame",
This has been explained many times (maybe read some other comments!).It is NOT illegal.
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
I would think its a beat-up but a lot of Nat comments here suggest otherwise. They want Collins. I dont know why, but there it is.
National wants Chelsea Manning barred from New Zealand
All this convicted criminal line is really dishonest. Convicted by who? For what?Be honest. You like some countries systems, you dont like others. You condemn some convicted people, you regard others as innocent, or even heroes. Jesus was a convicted criminal.If Tommy Robinson wants to visit NZ, will all the same voices shout No way? Hes a convicted criminal ... but hes on your team, so thats OK.
"Jacinda Ardern names Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Council members",
Some right-wingers commenting and complaining here should pause for a moment. Shouldnt you be welcoming this?The voice of business INSIDE Parliament is self-destructing. Nationals credibility is in tatters.So you should be glad that there is a voice outside Parliament. The government is not going to take Simon Bridges seriously (who does?) but they might listen to Luxon, Hurrell etc. You need to have somebody offering a different view to Labour. So be happy that its these people. They probably dont all hate each other.
Tourists could be taxed to enter New Zealand under new proposal
You mean the FAKE student market. Good.
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
Laughing stock? Evidence? Go on, back that up.
John Key delivers stark warning on the economy, endorses Simon Bridges as leader
So what would we be getting if Keys government WAS still here?More selling NZ offshore. Tax dodges for the richest. Health and education still neglected. Housing crisis? Oh wait, there isnt one! Because John Key said so. Nothing to see here, hooray!No, John, we havent forgotten already. Enjoy your retirement, weve moved on.
Where to build: Auckland's biggest 'wastes of space' under the microscope
First, leave the cemeteries alone.Second, not all homes have to be ugly, soulless developments. New suburbs out east are hideous, pseudo-American deserts. And some central Auckland tower blocks are future slums.Look at older buildings like warehouses, and turn them into livable apartments, with character. Its not just about houses, but NEIGHBOURHOODS. (Which developers dont have to live in, so they dont care).
National Party starts prepping RMA reform bill for 2019
Is there a glimmer of hope here that National are finally starting to understand?So far all theyve done is oppose anything and everything. But if they went to Labour and said how about these limited RMA reforms? then the 2 parties could reach a deal. Not as much as some on the Right would want, but more than the Greens would want. A compromise. BUT to do that requires some humility from National. No more acting like they are the real government, having a brief, temporary break from their rightful position in power. So ... I cant see it happening. Hope they prove me wrong.
Labour's bill to curb foreigners buying New Zealand homes becomes law
A partial ban is a step forward. There are many others, such as re-balancing the tax system, so that not working (property accumulation) is taxed more, and working is taxed less.The status quo has to change. This is no longer in dispute. Propose alternative measures if you want, but please dont pretend doing nothing is the only answer. Weve tried that already, it failed.
Government announces probe into retail fuel industry, amid concerns over competition problems
The Commerce Commission has been in existence for over 30 years, including 18 years of National governments. It is not a working group. So there is no huge cost to the taxpayer, because the Commission is already there. Would you rather they did no work, while still getting paid?
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
But the National MPs dont like her. She got approximately zero votes.How can she win the public if she cant win her own caucus?
National begins own inquiry to search for Bridges leaker
Gaza69 has (unintentionally) summed up the problem for Bridges.To believe in the crazy conspiracy theory, you have to keep adding more and more culprits. Theyre ALL in the cover-up! So now its not only Mallard and Ardern and Peters and parliamentary staff and the reporters, its the police as well (how many police officers would you like to include with that?). The alternative explanation requires just one person. Which it was.
Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull survives leadership vote, but threat still remains
Dutton, Abbott and Joyce are all on the back benches now. Thats like a 3-headed Judith Collins.
Nurses' strike called off after district health boards improve offer
The government didnt roll over. If you believe nurses deserve better pay and conditions, then you will support better funding for DHBs. The govts job is to provide the investment, the DHBs job is to allocate it. The unions job is to stand up for their workers, and they did.National have been total hypocrites on this. Bridges says he supports the nurses ... but not when he was in government and could DO something about it.
"Jami-Lee Ross: Controversial from the start",
Genuine question: Did you watch the Bridges press conference?Confident? Robotic repetition and refusing to answer simple Qs. If thats what National want, they can have it. The voters will be wanting a human being.
Simon Bridges promises to not introduce any new taxes in first term if elected
Offshore property investors are not the hard working population of NZ. In fact, the opposite. Not hard working, not NZ. So why should they avoid tax?
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
In a leadership poll of Nationals caucus, Judith got a lower percentage than the Greens. Thats in HER party. Never mind the voters.
National wants Chelsea Manning barred from New Zealand
Whereas the President of China, king of Saudi Arabia, and numerous other dictators have been welcomed to our shores.They are responsible for countless deaths and human rights abuses ... but they make the laws in their countries, so its all good?
"Simon Bridges says phone call recorded by Jami-Lee Ross doesn't stack up",
We must not forget the real victims of this non-stop story: the journalists racing to keep up. Do they ever have time for lunch?
Don Brash free speech debate in Auckland booms on back of Massey's ban
Except ... the lefty liberals have attacked the decision. Use better straw.
Nationals deadline approaches for Speaker to respond over remark
Obviously you started watching in 2018. Mallard is biased (all Speakers are) but he knows the rules. David Carter didnt even bother with the rules.
"Chinese businessman Yikun Zhang 'disappointed' in being named in Jami-Lee Ross scandal",
You think China loves political freedom? Read some news.
Politicians' pay around the world: How our MPs' salaries stack up
Comments that say Too high coz I dont like THIS PM are infantile. Try to raise your level of understanding and debate. In general PMs in NZ probably are overpaid, but lets not pretend it makes any difference to whether National or Labour or whoever do a good job in government.Trump would happily be President for free. What kind of saving is that?
Five myths about KiwiBuild - and who its meant to help
Theyre doing it because online stalking and shaming an innocent couple is much easier than proposing a constructive solution to the housing crisis.
Outsourcing Government: The $55m cost of reviews
Former National MP Mike Sabin probably thinks the taxpayers money for his meth testing company was well spent. But then, he wasnt called a consultant. Not by National anyway.
"Editorial: The mutiny, then the Botany",
National would do themselves a big favour if they simply select an actual human being as their By-election candidate.But they probably wont. Itll be another on-message robot from the politician factory. Which is exactly why the voters are losing interest.
Judith Collins joins preferred PM rankings - Labour, Greens still ahead in poll
I think the 3.7% refers to her support in Nationals caucus ... ;)
Smaller class sizes under Nats, says Simon Bridges in major speech
Simon says: National will invest more ... spend more on education.Your government certainly didnt think so. Teachers didnt feel valued by you before, why should they believe you now?
The AM Show: Winston's naughty ban revoked, but he's a no show
I think youll find that a whole lot of National, Labour and Green voters do have one thing in common. Duncan Garner unites everybody!
Duncan Garner: Dr Clark, this is life or death, please help
What a shame that a heartfelt column about cancer is used as another tired excuse for Labour-bashing in the comments. Until 2017 it was the same Pharmac, and the same system. Having the blue team instead of red made no difference. Which drugs were withdrawn by the new government?
Bill to end multinational tax avoidance passes in Parliament
When the bores say Government doing nothing, only baby photo ops, this is exactly the kind of important work that they are ignoring (or not bothering to read about). The Panama papers came out, John Key told us there was no problem, nothing to see here. He was wrong, and eventually Bill English set him straight. Now the government is taking the kind of steps that should have happened years ago. Good.
Xena star Lucy Lawless sparks flag burning debate
Socks, T-shirts, boxer shorts, tattoos, backwards baseball hats, even condoms. The flag is dishonoured every day.Also, its usually made in China. But patriotically made, no doubt.
Simon Bridges promises to not introduce any new taxes in first term if elected
Do you also sell off your home and business for a quick buck, and then miss out on the revenue once its gone? Thats Nationals way.
The AM Show: Winston's naughty ban revoked, but he's a no show
Whether you like Winston or not (Im not a fan) its good to see a politician treat Garner with all the respect he deserves ... none.Threw a tanty, desperate for ratings, nobody cared.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to visit New Zealand
As opposed to John Key at Balmoral, at Windsor, at the wedding ... he banned the cameras for all of that, right?
Wellington, it's bikes or cars, but not both
Funny how some people claim to believe in freedom ... until it inconveniences them, even slightly. If the mayor or government banned cycling in Wellington there would be cries of nanny state. Not least from the National party, who the writer worked for. Oh, irony.
Simon Bridges promises to not introduce any new taxes in first term if elected
Mentally agile is a nice way of putting it!Its painful to hear him repeat his prepared phrases, and then struggle when he goes off script ... Heres the deal, At the end of the day, The reality is.
No room for nuance in creation debate
The earth isnt 7000 years old. Thats proven.
3 per cent of house sales to foreigners
In Central Auckland the figure is 20% (as published today). Thats where the knock-on effect begins, to everybodys cost (except the owners of course).
No room for nuance in creation debate
People are free to believe whatever they want. If they need to believe that 2 plus 2 = 137, nobody can stop them.But they probably shouldnt be employed to teach mathematics. I believe that houses stay up by magic. Want me to build yours?
Labour's bill to curb foreigners buying New Zealand homes becomes law
It isnt 3%. Try reading beyond the headlines, to the details. It is universally accepted that workaround mechanisms such as trusts do NOT show up in the percentage, but DO include non-residents.
"Jacinda Ardern names Prime Minister’s Business Advisory Council members",
Read it again. Slowly.
"Where the Jami-Lee Ross crisis engulfing National and Simon Bridges goes today",
Heres what Simon Bridges needs to say today ... but wont:After my expenses were leaked I wanted to find the culprit. But instead of waiting for the investigation, I decided to blame a whole lot of people who had NOTHING to do with the leak. I just wanted to distract and deny. I had no evidence whatsoever, and now we all know I was wrong.So today I am apologising to the Speaker, the Prime Minister, the Parliamentary officials and the other MPs. I accused them, because I was - in my own words - incredibly confident that the leaker was not a National MP. I feel like a fool. I am sorry.
Editorial: Nationals Groundhog Day of political support
This is a sound analysis, but its not clear that National are ready to hear it. There are 2 questions which will not go away, and it simply doesnt matter how much anybody dislikes the government or says what about ... what about. Mathematics is not blue, red or green. Its colour-blind. 1. Can Simon Bridges achieve what John Key could not, even though Key was the most popular PM in polling history?2. If not, how will National get to 61?
Full list of MPs expenses shows spending topped $2.1 million
What are the hourly expenses for a QC to investigate the release of information about expenses?How about ... all MPs sign a statement, like this:I did not leak the information, and as proof of my word, I insist that the entire cost of the investigation must be deducted from my salary, if I am guilty. That will flush out Simons enemy from caucus, and wont cost the taxpayer a cent!
"One year on for Jacinda Ardern's coalition government",
Well said. I think of the Nats I grew up with, including neighbours and relatives. My uncle the farmer. My bro-in-law running a small business. Decent, community-minded people. Their politics were more conservative than mine, so I didnt vote National - we disagreed. But they had NOTHING in common with the sleazy, cynical manipulators who are the face of National today. You can be right of centre and still be a decent human being. I hope National find somebody like that to represent them.
Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull survives leadership vote, but threat still remains
@Bier Wrong. The coalition is not a party. Please do some homework.
After the Waverley crash, will NZ change its entitled attitude to driving?
Too soon for this article. Too soon for inserting politics in the comments. I know the news cycle moves fast these days, but have a heart, please.
Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull survives leadership vote, but threat still remains
John Howard visits NZ, slags off MMP, gets standing ovation from National party conference.Well ... the last PM spill in NZ was way back in 1997 (Bolger/Shipley). Whereas Australia has one every five minutes. Maybe time for a little less lecturing, a little more looking in the mirror?
Rental properties could end up better than landlords homes
As with all these groups that suddenly appear out of nowhere with an obvious agenda and headline-grabbing names, it pays to look a little deeper. Just as the Taxpayers Union doesnt represent taxpayers, this is NOT an official landlords representative, at all. Its yet another Dirty Politics astroturf job, fronted by a spokesman who previously bashed Treaty settlements and pushed other far Right barrows.No more Churnalism please - dont just copy and paste propaganda, but ask the basic questions.
Tourists could be taxed to enter New Zealand under new proposal
Its the crowds on the unspoilt walks that are killing the goose. Tourists will pay for a better experience.
"Explosive allegations before disgraced MP Jami-Lee Ross quits National Party, forcing by-election",
But until 48 hours ago he was a great guy. Because he was National.When did you decide he was a bad guy? He hasnt changed.
"Chinese businessman Yikun Zhang 'disappointed' in being named in Jami-Lee Ross scandal",
Actually, its all about who pays the piper, and what tunes they want played. We dont want muck, we want full disclosure.
First nurses strikes in 30 years dependent on revised DHBs offer
Simon Bridges supports the nurses strike. Thats nice.Simon Bridges the government minister (2008-2017) was a totally different person, who had nothing to do with funding decisions (he was asleep in Cabinet at the time).
Harry Kane clinches England victory with late header
Nobody is over-hyping this England team, not even the worst of the English media. You need to update your stereotypes.