Poetic justice?

Written By: - Date published: 1:12 pm, December 1st, 2007 - 117 comments
Categories: national - Tags:

Remember when the National Party threatened the Standard with copyright infringement? Nothing ever came of it of course because we had the fair defence of satire. But at the time we figured it showed the Nats were tuned it to intellectual property rights and the misuse of others people’s material. How wrong we were. According to an article in today’s Herald our litigious mates may have bitten off more than they can chew after ripping off Coldplay’s “Clocks” for their dull and expensive John Key promotional DVD. As musicologist (and Dunedin music legend) Graham Downes puts it:

If I were approached by a lawyer to furnish a report for a prosecution of copyright infringement against the music on the DVD I would happily do so. If approached by a lawyer to furnish a report in its defence, I would decline.

It’s kinda funny that the party that considers itself the party of business and claims to be “ambitious for New Zealand” would make such a basic property rights blunder and do so while trying to riff off an overseas band rather than getting some decent original Kiwi music. I’d expect National will be getting a cease and desist from EMI sometime soon. I wonder what my copy will be worth on trademe then.

117 comments on “Poetic justice? ”

  1. Robinsod 1

    Ha! – I’m not one for schadenfreude but, no… wait I so am! I can’t wait to see where this story goes – is the vid still up on the nat’s site?

    Captcha: clock coffin (someone’s gotta be rigging this thing!)

  2. thomas 2

    I have watched the DVD so many times now
    trying to work out that fucking music
    That I quite like it now
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    I MUST VOTE NATIONAL
    zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

    captcha nothing yo do with anything unless your name is MRS MAGDEBURG

  3. Robinsod 3

    She’s my mum!

  4. thomas 4

    Must be DS ‘s Gran then

  5. thomas 5

    Or should that be BS

  6. East Wellington Superhero 6

    Today’s DomPost featured a United Nations’ report showing New Zealand being behind the 8-Ball on standards of living, the less than glowing state of the healthcare system, the complete meltdown around the Graeme Burton saga and the Labour government’s manipulation of the public service.
    In light of these leadership failures by the current government, do you think it would be fair to describe your comments on the John Key DVD/Clocks situation as petty? Do you think it would be fair to say there are bigger issues to be concerned about?

  7. PhilBest 7

    For Pete’s sake you socialist saboteurs, how about getting a Captcha that works, or that isn’t rigged to make it impossible for certain identities to post?

    Second try.

    Graeme Downes can make a fool of himself over this if he wants to let his politics get in the way of his musicology. I doubt Chris Martin of Coldplay would buy into it. He would know that the originality of “Clocks” could be savaged to shreds in the courtroom. There is a world of difference between REAL “musicologists” and those that exist in the world of soundalike rock and teen pap.

  8. The Double Standard 8

    Isn’t it nice to see a Labour-funded blog talking about the important issues that face the nation. Frankly I’ve never knowingly listened to a Coldplay song, and after watching the DVD I hope I never do.

    You’d think the Nats could come up with something a little more original and upbeat.

    How many murders and rapes have been committed by prisoners on parole or bail this month eh?

    sheesh coldplay, cockplay, who gives a fuck (except The Stupid)

    And this re-captcha shit is hopeless. Most of the words aren’t.

    Col- Dilzer?
    Onkotz?
    azines?
    Stebbins?
    Munson?

  9. dave 9

    YOu have no evidence that it is coldplay. Until you do why dont you take the advice of Dear Leader – nothing to see here, move on.

  10. Robinsod 10

    Hey kids – you’re really upset aye? The Nats have been busted. It’s on the front page of the Herald. Suck it up you little crybabies.

  11. Santi 11

    It’s no good to avoid copyright issues. Much better ask someone to paint something and sign it as if it were yours. That’s what Comrade Helen calls integrity.

  12. East Wellington Superhero 12

    Have the Nats been busted? Really? I doubt it.
    Sure, it’s a fun story and it gets people reading the paper but I doubt it will come to much. Moreover, I doubt the Nats are worried.
    The DVD was made by a professional production company who, presumably, checked the rules and will probably take the fall if in fact anything wrong was done.

    Meanwhile, economic growth is stalling, politicians are unilaterally changing electoral law, government leaders have no moral or ethical compass and petty party supporters focus on stupid issues like a DVD jingles.

    Awesome.

  13. Santi 13

    East Helengrad Superhero, do not forget we lead the world in going backwards, in exporting human capital to Australia, in making people sicker and waiting for hospital services longer, in curtailing freedom with the EFB, in overtaxing the populace, in dishing out benefits to people who don’t deserve them, in hitting political opponents in the corridors of Parliament, in exporting jobs overseas, in destroying small business, in pandering to minorities, etc, etc.

    How do you dare to sat NZ is stagnating? Wake up mate.

  14. Robinsod 14

    EWS – “no moral or ethical compass” – do you realise how fruity that sounds? I mean really bro, it’s a beautiful day all around the country, you need to get out and have some fun in the real world. It’s not as scary as your mum says, y’know…

  15. Pascal's bookie 15

    It’s pretty astounding how so many commenters post dozens of comments to threads that they consider to be irrelevent.

    PhilBest of course thinks he’s an expert about music. Whatever. You can always tell the try-hards from people who actually know what they are talking about by the fact that the people who know, explain, and give examples and cites from history and such. The try-hards just bluster, accuse others of ignorance and blather on about how easily they would win if they could be arsed fronting up with some evidence.

    The modestly named East Wellington Superhero thinks that The Standard should be blogging about more important things. Who cares?
    Perhaps s/he should focus on his/her own priorities, (presumably running around Miramar in his/her undies features highly), and let others do likewise. When you start actually paying money to the Standard to be entertained or informed by them, you may be in a position to moan about their content. Till then you’re just being a dick. So stop being a dick Superhero. Great power/great responsibilty remember?

    The Standards Stalker, who apparently stole his name from a suggestion made by a regular here, lets us know that he thinks coldplay is teh SUXXOR. I kind of agree. But then he displays the stupidity that’s made him famous and wonders why the Nats weren’t more original and upbeat. That, my friends, is what as known as a really stupid question.

    They didn’t get something more original, because they are the National Party. Originality is not what they do. When they want to be hip and cool or witty and intelligent, they look for something that other people find to be cool, hip, witty or intelligent and steal it. Like you with your handle. They couldn’t do something more upbeat because they suck like that. Coldplay is upbeat and edgy stuff for your typical Nathead, that’s why they chose it. (DPF I understand lists his musical taste as ‘TOP20’ in profiles. Go figure that he’s a Nat).

    Anyway I’m out. Have a lovely weekend everyone.

  16. Lampie 16

    So that’s how it’s going to be!!!

    Nats going to rip off Kiwis! Rip off a band then us!

    Sell us out, our hospital, our schools just to satisify our greed. Our egocentric thinking.

    There’s the lefts slogan NATS FIRE SALE, GO KIWIS, TAKE AND RUN CAUSE IT IS ALL YOU ARE GOING TO GET!

  17. East Wellington Superhero 17

    Actually, I’ve already been for a wade in the water at Scorching Bay and am currently enjoying the sunny view of Evan’s Bay from my deck. I can see windsurfing, motorboating, sailing and the jets from the airport taking people around our fair nation. Beautiful. Might get a BBQ going soon.

    As for the comment about “no moral or ethical compass” sounding fruity – it’s true, Labour has no moral or ethical compass. I’m not really sure what you mean by ‘fruity’ but I stand by my belief that the Prime Minister’s chief concern these days is the pursuit of power, not democracy. The EFB is not about high-minded views of democratic participation, it’s about winning the 2008 election. I call that a lack of morality and I don’t particularly care if you think that sounds ‘fruity’. The EFB is a complete roughshod ride over freedom of expression and all that kiwi soldiers have fought for and all that freedom-of-speech activists have campaigned for in the past.

    I would ask New Zealanders to consider whether they think Labour’s vilification of the Exclusive Brethren are acts of hate-speech and ask if kiwis think Labour’s attitude towards these citizens of our nation could be described as bigoted.

    Oh, and I’m not a member of the Exclusive Brethren but even if I was, so what? Last time I checked we lived in a democracy. Someone should tell Hon. Chris Carter that.

    East Wellington is beautiful.

  18. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 18

    The EFB is a complete roughshod ride over freedom of expression and all that kiwi soldiers have fought for and all that freedom-of-speech activists have campaigned for in the past.
    If I can be so bold, that statement is bollocks

  19. East Wellington Superhero 19

    Why is it bollocks?

  20. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 20

    I’ll give you a clue “running roughshod over all that kiwi soldiers have fought for”

    I just saw the march on TVNZ Swastikas, Labour are fascists posters
    Talk about shrill. Talk out of perspective

    I do NOT know of ONE person the EFB is going to effect not ONE

    Fuck me, Kiwi soldiers fought and died fighting real fascists people who used actually Swastikas and who brutally murdered millions of people
    Its cunts like you who cheapen Kiwi soldiers sacrifice that I can’t stand

  21. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 21

    AND further more If you were to ask most of those brave soldiers, would they have liked to see their country taken over by a lying scumbag whose main backers and objective was to have New Zealand policies and direction bought by a group or already rich citizens? whose sole intention was to look after themselves and fuck everyone else?
    They would have probably shot you,
    And who could blame them ?

  22. thomas (formally knowed as thomas) 22

    Ha ha, I really fooled you guys this time eh?

    Nah I realllly like dear Helen and I thhhink she is grate lol.

    pwnd!

  23. John 23

    Now that is a double standard isn’t it?

    One law for the Nats and one law for everyone else.

    Then again, they were the party that brought us parallel importing which hurt intellectual property owners in the music, film, publishing and entertainment industry. So, National stealing Coldplay’s property should not have been a surprise. It is in their nature.

    The idea that National is the party of business is a joke. They understand the 1970s farm economy, but not much else.

  24. Dean 24

    So, wait.

    First the standard says it’s definitely Clocks by Coldplay, and now its not.

    All because it was in the “granny herald” you guys love to hate so much, too.

    Are you ever going to get your stories straight before you hit the post button?

  25. Lee C 25

    5000 ( ) at the march against the EFB today in Auckland.

  26. J 26

    I think this “Coldplay” issue is amazing. It’s absurd that so many people on the right have no idea about music “copyright” laws; laws that have prevailed for decades. It’s amazing the so called party of “business” stumble into one of the most fundamental business principles of the music industry, “No Plagiarism”. ……and then idiots call it a piffling matter. A billion dollar publishing industry we’re talking here; let alone the disgusting connection of a prominent leftwing artist to a right wing politician,( for the record Coldplay are hardly my favorite band.) Read up on business law before you post.

    p.s there are very few rightwing artists, makes ya think. The first world right wing and their visionless future of striving hardworkers helping the rich get richer fucks off anyone with true progressive vision.Get your own art.

  27. The Double Standard 27

    “One law for the Nats and one law for everyone else.”

    Hahahhahahaaa John, nice one

    everyone in NZ knows that Teh Party holds the “get out of jail free” card in NZ

    Exactly how many “no public interest” escapes have there been by Labour

    lessee

    1 Helen Clark – forgery
    2 Helen Clark – license to speed
    3 Benson Pope – tennis balls in mouth
    4 Benson Pope – dodgy showers
    5 Parker – something to do with companies
    6 Mallard – common assault
    7 Heather Simpson/Mike Smith – illegal electoral funding
    ….

    The only one that has been stuck (so far) is TPF, which is remarkable, I guess it must have been tooo bad for him.

    If the Nats are sued in court (although its likely to be the production company anyway), let them take their medicine. I’m sure they’ll take it like men, unlike the front-bums at Labour who like to dodge responsibility.

    Tell us John – do you believe in the Rule of Law or not???

  28. Lee C 28

    Lee C Says: (cutnpaste from the other blog)

    December 1st, 2007 at 8:10 pm
    Re the recent two days’ developments about the EFB. I thought I’d go for a bt of balance and read the Very Double Standard’s take on this; after all they have ridiculed previous low-turn-outs as proof that the anti-EFB movement is made up of a few white, middle-class blah blahs.

    So I wondered what their responses to both the turnout, and yesterday the Dominion Post’s stance against the EFB might be, because they have previously atacked the Herald’s stance against the EFB as proof that The Herald is a ‘National Party propaganda organ’.

    Guess what?

    nothing about either.

    They are dealing with the cutting-edge stuff over there, stuff that matters. Stuff around which elections are won or lost.

    Like whether the recent John Key video which features a rough ‘sound-alike’ to ‘Clocks’ has infringed copyright of a Coldplay song.

  29. redbus 29

    Teh Party
    – Seriously! WHY DO YOU SAY ‘Teh’?????

  30. nih 30

    Redbus: he’s one of those chatty little internet lamers who used to think saying ‘teh’ instead of ‘the’ was cool. Now it’s some sort of insult or something. I don’t know. It’s not a very good one. Perhaps it’s maori-bashing? Yes? No? Pretty ambiguous bit of deliberate misspelling really.

  31. nih 31

    Dean

    What did I say about creating more logins? Your desperate attempt to appear as if you have a multitude of support by posting under other names is evil and stupid.

    Only one far-right person posts on KBB and The Standard and it’s you. You’re responsible for pretty much all the invective. Have you ever questioned just how anti-democratic your behaviour is?

    Go on, compare yourself to freedom fighters such as RobertOwen, who actually waits until he’s banned before creating a new login.

    Yeah, I didn’t think so. You’ve shown you’re only 1/15th the man he or any of us are.

  32. The Double Standard 32

    “- Seriously! WHY DO YOU SAY ‘Teh’?????”

    Ur – coz I lernt NZEA enlgish?

    My bad must be a hbt i pcked up on dNet

    pwned!

    lol

    Wrld fms M8

    http://www.usatoday.com/news/offbeat/2006-11-13-text-speak_x.htm

  33. redbus 33

    TDS, I think you’ll find that New Zealand schools do not teach txt language. However, during an exam, when students are prone to revert to habits while trying to remember the many facts and techniques they were taught throughout the year, some write the odd word in txt language. In the same way that the odd spelling mistake is permitted in 600 word essays written within an hour. As long as the answer is readable, then the answer is subjected to the marking schedule. Txt language is not, I repeat, taught in New Zealand schools. If you think that you’re the counter of The Standard, then you’re totally inept as it … How about offering something worthwhile? We would prefer you do not bring the bile of Kiwiblog to The Standard. Thank you.

  34. Lampie 34

    Another gracious present left by the Nats of the 90s. The incoming Labour Govt. had to run with it as already had been implemented into the education system

  35. Lampie 35

    Thats NCEA I’m talking about

  36. redbus 36

    What’s wrong with NCEA? I think it’s far superior to the old system. Care to compare?

  37. Lampie 37

    5000 ( ) at the march against the EFB today in Auckland

    What happens when you organise it for a weekend

  38. Lampie 38

    The point is that people (mostly right wingers) have forgot that National actually changed it and blame Labour for it.

    As you say compare, as I’m not a teacher but wife is, I would ask her to comment but she doesn’t really care for politics

  39. gobsmacked 39

    It’s what happens when you make (sorry, buy) 80,000 phone calls.

    I got one. Mr Boscawen sounded very ANGRY. He should join Christine Rankin in the therapy group. Shout, shout, let it all out.

  40. Lampie 40

    What’s wrong with NCEA? I think it’s far superior to the old system

    As in marking a child’s ability i.e. trig vs stats? Old system past one fail other, fail overall vs pass one fail one, can still pass

  41. Lampie 41

    It’s what happens when you make (sorry, buy) 80,000 phone calls

    Hmmm ^.25% hit rate, not good hahaha

  42. Lampie 42

    shit 6.25% even

  43. East Wellington Superhero 43

    RE: More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas)

    I guess I’m not going to convince you but I’d like to say that your failure to appreciate that the abusive excesses of the Italian Fascists and Nazis came about after a piece-meal sqeezing-out of free-speech and other civil liberties is concerning.

    Also, to suggest that National Party MPs are bought and don’t care about other New Zealanders is completely ridiculous and such silly comments make it hard to take you seriously.

    The EFB is terrible. Every newspaper in the country is opposed to it. The Human Rights Commission condemns it. The bill’s passage through the House has been secretive which is terrible considering this is election law in a nation where Parliament is sovereign.

    Also, I was offended by being labelled as a “cunt”. If you want people to respect you and your views then you need to be a bit more respectful.

    If TheStandard is going to have any street-cred then submitters need to voluntarily clean-up their arguments and their language.

  44. Gruela 44

    But are any of you righties prepared to argue against the merits of SOME form of legislation to restrict third party spending during an election cycle, and complete transparency for donations over a nominal limit?

    Is it the EFB you’re against, or an open election?

  45. The Double Standard 45

    “But are any of you righties prepared to argue against the merits of SOME form of legislation to restrict third party spending during an election cycle, and complete transparency for donations over a nominal limit?”

    I’d be fine with with no anon donations over some amount, maybe a couple of k, and making them nz-resident only.

    Third party spending is more tricky – I support the principle, but recognize it is hard in practice. Making the limit fairly high should help there.

    Thomas is obviously having trouble coping with people marching to oppose his rather rapid position tonite.

    Rum time!

  46. Gruela 46

    Okay, I’m down with it being poorly drafted legislation. But I do think the need was there, and I do think the reaction to it from some quarters has been OTT.

  47. Dean 47

    Nih, I’d love to know how you’ve arrived at the conclusion that I’m someone else logging in under a different name. You shouldn’t play at being an internet detective because quite frankly you’re not much good at it.

  48. Nick C 48

    On a more positive note i hear they got at least 5000 at the anti-EFB march 2day. You guys were raving about how they got so few to the other ones, why no post on the latest one?

  49. East Wellington Superhero 49

    I would argue that civil society needs to have as much strength as it can to provide a balance against the power of the state. That’s the reason we have democracy. Limiting third parties, limits the voice and power of civil society.

    There is no evidence that money buys elections – it certainly didn’t help National in 2005!

    I used to believe in banning anonymity but considering the beat-up that the EB got and Labour’s (but not just Labour, I’m sure a National govt could do it too) current tendency to attack people, I now think anonymity should be protected. They reason the West largely has secret-ballot elections is because they protect people from attack.

  50. Gruela 50

    “There is no evidence that money buys elections”

    ’nuff said.

  51. r0b 51

    “There is no evidence that money buys elections”

    ’nuff said.

    Indeed. Somebody should tell the multi billion dollar advertising industry that opinion cannot be bought. They’ll probably want to clear out their desks.

  52. East Wellington Superhero 52

    I am going to bed.
    Goodnight.

  53. Amateur Scrabbler 53

    Two points:

    1. The tweaking and slight rearrangement of popular songs and then calling them original material by the rip-off ‘artists’, is despicable to my mind, and is plainly designed to steal from the work’s first composer. Somewhere else here someone mentioned Massive Attack’s work coming under fire on this front, and I also have heard Iggy Pop’s Lust for Life been done this way for a beer commercial(?) here in NZ.

    2. When I watch the video, I really sense a lack of gravitas in Key. I think everything could unravel for him when the battle-hardened leaders of the other parties set their sights on him in the campaign proper. Sure, he can ‘stay on-message’ in the safe environment of a professionally shot video, but in a televised debate I think the wheels might well come off big-time…

  54. Lee C 54

    Ah yes the secret ballot. I wonder why that was introduced? Was it to protect the weak from the bullies?

    The charge in defence of the EFB now, is for critics of the EFB to ‘come up with something better’.

    But that is why we elect representatives, to do the job of proposing legislation which will reflect public opinion.

    How do they devine public opinon? Why, by asking the public.

    it is disingenous to accuse critics of not having better ideas than the ones who come up with the laws, fter the laws have been drafted without proper public consultation.

    Did the National Socialists defend the ‘Final Solution’ with the retort, ‘Well you come up with something better!’ probably. because it is a response, based on a subjectively constructed vrsion of ‘the problem’.

    When, if you asked the German people back in 1934 if Jews needed exterminating, they probably would have said ‘no’.

    Excuse the extreme analogy – it is just an analogy. I am not trying to belittle the suffering of teh Jews under Hitler, o compare Te Labor Part of NZ to the atina Socialists.

    The point is, that we could have ‘come up with something better’ if we (the people) had been asked beforehand, and if the questions asked had been sensible ones..

    But we weren’t. Labour, the Greens, NZ First etc went ahead and threw together this joke of a Bill, then tried to ram it through under cover, because they knew it would not withstnd public scrutiny or debate.

    Now, they are accusing its critics of ‘hysteria’ or demeaning them based on their social grouping, numbers, or ethnicity.

    but the fact remains, they ar eelected to serve the electorate, not to doictate to it, and they appear to have forgotten that.

  55. r0b 55

    He hasn’t been convincing in parliament either, which is not a good sign (for Key). The sprout has some good videos up:

    http://thesprout.vodpod.com/

    See especially number 6 (help i’m drowning).

    But time (and only time) will tell.

  56. r0b 56

    He hasn’t been convincing in parliament either, which is not a good sign (for Key). The sprout has some good videos up:

    http://thesprout.vodpod.com/

    See especially number 6 (help i’m drowning).

    But time (and only time) will tell.

  57. r0b 57

    Hmm – no idea how that appeared twice!

  58. Lee C 58

    Becaus you have been drunkinging

  59. Lee C 59

    sori – drinkunginign…
    i meen …… fuck

  60. Lee C 60

    PS re the EFB:

    ‘If approached by a lawyer to furnish a report in its defence, I would decline.”

  61. r0b 61

    It’s entirely possible that one of us has been drinking Lee. Goodnight!

  62. Lee C 62

    Roger and out!

  63. Gruela 63

    Lee C

    Actually, secret ballots were introduced to stop moneyed interests from buying votes.

    The fact that (at most) 6000 marchers congregated in Auckland is a prime indicator of public opinion: very few people think that the EFB is the first step down into the abyss of Nazism, or some other form of fascist state. This is because most NZers are still rational and reasonable people, and realise that even if the Bill is flawed, there is still a need for it.

    A sense of perspective from the right would be greatly appreciated.

  64. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 64

    Also, I was offended by being labelled as a “cunt”.
    Your the one that said
    The EFB is a complete roughshod ride over freedom of expression and all that kiwi soldiers have fought for
    I was offended by that
    I also am offended by you lot brandishing swastikas and labelling the Government fascist

    You tone down your rhetoric and I’ll tone down mine

  65. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 65

    The EFB is a complete roughshod ride over freedom of expression and all that kiwi soldiers have fought for

  66. Gruela 66

    Interestingly, I used to be one of those soldiers. We didn’t give a f**k about freedom of expression, or the flag or the Queen, for that matter. A soldier does what his officers tell him, and they do what their Govt. tells them. Do anything else, and you’re not a soldier anymore.

    (It really bugs me how ‘old soldiers’ sometimes get dragged into these debates.)

  67. Amateur Scrabbler 67

    r0b: Cheers for the link. Interesting to watch the #6.

    He’s got the indecision shuffle going on. Several times he’s about to jump to his feet and then he decides against it.

    Which really is pretty damning. ‘I can’t decide whether to defend myself or not’.

    A few more years in the bear-pit and he’d probably be able to hold his own, but he ain’t there by a long shot.

    Purely as a hypothetical, but will National dump Key in the Brash-esque fashion if he doesn’t get them over the line?

    English has a LOT more game-time, and I sense he’s more of a brawler at heart. With Key, I’ve yet to observe his killer-instinct. Has he actually savaged *anyone* in Parliament?

  68. Gruela 68

    Is there anyone other than English they could elevate?

  69. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 69

    If key doesn’t get them over the line
    they will disintegrate into their factions
    which would be sad to see 🙂

    something to look forward to then

  70. Historian 70

    Our old soldiers fought Hitler (hooray) on the same side as Stalin (boo) but with Churchill (hooray) and a Labour PM (boo) and our German King (er, hooray, boo, um …).

  71. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 71

    Is there anyone other than English they could resurrect?

  72. Gruela 72

    It’s Rodney Hide I feel sorry for in all this. (Come to think of it, I’ve always felt sorry for Rodney Hide.)

  73. More soporific then a John Key DVD(formerly known as Thomas) 73

    And they could elevate Brownlee but it would take a few 🙂

  74. Gruela 74

    It would take some gerrymandering.

  75. Amateur Scrabbler 75

    Haha nice one Gruela. 😉

    But seriously, Brownlee seems a vaguely unknown quantity. To me he seems to be ‘the muscle’, who can heavy-hit as needed. (Shoring up Brash on occasion as I remember). Sharp enough to lead? Hard to say…

    I believe that English has been consolidating his support within the party, and staying relatively ‘under cover’ (as far as public perceptions go) over the last two terms.

    I think the Key excision would be swift (this is assuming the Nats lose the next election). English would start the next campaign immediately, and try to force an early election.

    All speculation of course. I just think English has been biding his time, and taking a long-term view… I wouldn’t be surprised to see something like him bringing Rich with along as deputy.

  76. Gruela 76

    Well, they’re stuck with Key for now. I just honestly can’t see him pulling it off. I predict that when he gets into a head to head debate with the other leaders the man is going to fall apart.

    Well, night all.

  77. Amateur Scrabbler 77

    Gruela: Agreed. The National Party hierarchy ‘made their bed’ and ‘now they’ve got to sleep in it’, with their endorsement of Key as leader.

    The televised leader’s debates will be Key’s ultimate undoing. Just in time for the election, when the majority of the electorate is finally watching the political blood-sports.

    I reckon Labour may have made a calculated move to Key slide for this long, in order to prevent him from hardening up to any large degree…

    And also, a general supplemental… pursuant to the ‘Ambition’ announcement, but where’s the frickin policy National ?!

    Oh no, wait… It’s the Tax Cuts isn’t it? 🙂

  78. The Double Standard 78

    “reckon Labour may have made a calculated move to Key slide for this long, in order to prevent him from hardening up to any large degree.”

    So you think its a deliberate strategy by Labour to irritate the electorate so much that they are 13% behind in the polls, just to sucker-punch Key?

    Yeah Right!

    What a dick.

    Cap: left cynanide – just right!

  79. John 79

    Hey Double nice to hear from you.

    Of course I believe in the rule of law and I also believe in letting the justice system enforce that law. It is not up to people like you or me to decide who is prosecuted and who is not. It is for the Police and the Courts to decided and in each of the cases you list, they decided you are wrong.

    It stuck to TPF because the Police and the Courts saw grounds that justified spending Police and Court time on the case. It is as simple as that. By the way, in my opinion I think they were right, but I guess ultimately its up to the justice system to decide.

    The problem with you and your side of the aisle is that you keep trying to turn mole hills into mountains. Like any good political operative you take a bit of truth and try to spin it into something that will do damage. Often this is done to cover up your own inadequacies as a party.

    You count on enough people being fooled by your nonsense to make a difference. By the way, Herald reporters are pretty good at being fooled. So, you maybe on to a good thing.

    Fortunately, though, I think most New Zealanders are smarter than that and they see these tactics as side shows – amusing side shows, but side shows all the same.

    Key hasn’t been around long, but a list along your lines can already be started for him:

    1. Key – Something to do with Equity Corp criminals
    2. Key – Lies on Electoral Office statutory document
    3. Key – Thief (or plagiarist if you prefer)

    Are any of those going to get Mr Key jail time – no. And, they probably shouldn’t, but if you want politically spun lists we can do that.

  80. John 80

    Hey Double nice to hear from you.

    Of course I believe in the rule of law and I also believe in letting the justice system enforce that law. It is not up to people like you or me to decide who is prosecuted and who is not. It is for the Police and the Courts to decided and in each of the cases you list, they decided you are wrong.

    It stuck to TPF because the Police and the Courts saw grounds that justified spending Police and Court time on the case. It is as simple as that. By the way, in my opinion I think they were right, but I guess ultimately its up to the justice system to decide.

    The problem with you and your side of the aisle is that you keep trying to turn mole hills into mountains. Like any good political operative you take a bit of truth and try to spin it into something that will do damage. Often this is done to cover up your own inadequacies as a party.

    You count on enough people being fooled by your nonsense to make a difference. By the way, Herald reporters are pretty good at being fooled. So, you maybe on to a good thing.

    Fortunately, though, I think most New Zealanders are smarter than that and they see these tactics as side shows – amusing side shows, but side shows all the same.

    Key hasn’t been around long, but a list along your lines can already be started for him:

    1. Key – Something to do with Equity Corp criminals
    2. Key – Lies on Electoral Office statutory document
    3. Key – Thief (or plagiarist if you prefer)

    Are any of those going to get Mr Key jail time – no. And, they probably shouldn’t, but if you want politically spun lists we can do that.

  81. Santi 81

    “Okay, I’m down with it being poorly drafted legislation. But I do think the need was there,” Exactly what your intellectual predecessor, some chap named Adolf, said in Germany circa 1933.

    Gruela you’re a tower of intellect, almost a giant. With people like you and Mallard the Labour Party will go far.

  82. Oh, brilliant. A Left-wing commenter who spends seven paragraphs giving his interpretation on the rule of law, and then proceeds to defame John Key.

    All this, just a matter of hours after Redbus says: “We would prefer you do not bring the bile of Kiwiblog to The Standard.”

  83. r0b 83

    And right on cue, up pops IP. He reminds me a bit of that enchanter in The Holy Grail. Pops up with a bad attitude, lobs a few fireballs at random targets, then slips away when the going gets tough.

  84. Admit it, r0b: the Standard claims to offer a left-wing perspective without the bile of kiwiblog. Yet the Standard condones commenters who defame others.

    If you’ve got admin rights, r0b, I strongly suggest you delete the assertions that John Key had “something to do with the Equiticorp criminals”, that he lied on a statutory document, and that he stole and/or plagiarised. Each of those statements is deeply defamatory.

  85. Gruela 85

    Santi

    Just how despicable can you get? Now we know.
    Comparing me to Adolf Hitler.

    You have proven yourself to be without any sense of objectivity, reason or morality.

  86. r0b 86

    That was his name. Tim the Enchanter.

    Admit it, r0b: the Standard claims to offer a left-wing perspective without the bile of kiwiblog.

    The Standard doesn’t claim anything much. Some of us who post here hope for a better standard of debate, but as numbers have grown, inevitably there’s lots of aggressive stuff appearing.

    Yet the Standard condones commenters who defame others.

    If “condones” means allows them to post, then yes of course. Its a blog. People post. One defamatory comment was removed once. Other than that, The Standard doesn’t censor people (unlike Kiwiblog). Free speech. Hurrah.

    If you’ve got admin rights, r0b

    Nope, I’m just a poster here. Gotta go, ciao.

  87. Robinsod 87

    Hey Prick – get over yourself you hypocrite. I’ve seen the vile shit you post and now you want to take the high ground? You’re a joke, Punter.

  88. The Double Standard 88

    Hahahaaa – Robbo thinks IP is a hypocrite. Let me into a little secret Robbo – every regular who visits here knows who spouts the vile shit and it’s you.

    Lol – do you have a mirror in your hovel?

  89. Santi 89

    “Comparing me to Adolf Hitler.”. No, no, Gruela. You obviously have an inflated opinion of your own abilities.

    I has referring to Adolf Dumbweiss, a cobbler and part-time chimney sweeper from Upper Silesia, whose IQ seems to be on par with yours.

  90. You really do take the cake, Robinsod. In case you’ve forgotten, here is merely a selection of some of your vile posts over the last six weeks. And the Standard has the gall to call Kiwiblog’s posters vile!

    Nov 2nd, 2007 at 11:31 am
    And Lee do you still beat your wife. Don’t you have a job or something?

    Nov 19th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
    IP – quick take that story to the herald, your facts are obviously watertight! You’re full of shit prick.

    Nov 14th, 2007 at 7:37 am
    Bill you psychopath – I’ve been getting a good night’s sleep. You should try it some time. It may reduce your psychosis.

    Nov 14th, 2007 at 9:21 am
    Yes Bil, just as well. I’m sure Whale’s respect for you will increase now – he may even acknowledge you on the street. When you act like Whale’s sycophant you really show how much you are on the lunatic fringe of the lunatic fringe, Bill.

    Oct 19th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
    Wodge, why would I bother talking to you – you’re just a punter for crying out loud.

    Oct 19th, 2007 at 10:11 pm
    Burt – you’re a pugnacious bastard, I’ll give you that. Obtuse for sure but pugnacious. You’re not a computer programme are you?

    Nov 6th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
    IP – I’d charge you but I don’t think you could afford to pay me out out of your benefit. Go back to punter-land son.

    Oct 14th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
    Burt you are the most consistently disingenuous commenter I’ve seen for a while. Have you considered Ritalin for your problem?

    Oct 31st, 2007 at 10:05 am
    Claws – I said “Fuck off”

    Oct 15th, 2007 at 8:23 pm
    Burt – you’re wrong. You’ve asked this shit before and you don’t listen to the answers. Fuck off and take your Ritalin.

    Nov 15th, 2007 at 7:47 pm
    Really DPF claws? Not at all like how you scored the exclusive polling contract for National?
    Nov 15th, 2007 at 9:20 pm
    Question time in the house today was frustrating as Labour sought to lie about why the were not releasing the papers from the Ministry of Justice.
    Are you frustrated Monty? You could always try wanking. It won’t really make you go blind (and that’s not the only lie your mum told you). Go on monty – it’ll make you feel calmer and it’s better than spraying your vile lickspittle juice over the pages of the standard. For true bro.

    Nov 16th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
    DPF Claws – Fuck off (that should give you the victim-fix you’re after)

    Robinsod (moderator)
    Nov 7th, 2007 at 10:29 am
    DPF Claws – Of course I took my smart pills (hint: you can tell ‘cos I’m smarter than you). Did you take your neuroleptics? I’m sure they’re helping with your multiple personality disorder.
    19 Tane
    Nov 7th, 2007 at 10:35 am
    ‘sod bro, stop being a dick. You’re not a moderator. Nobody in their right mind would let you moderate anything – you can’t even moderate your own behaviour.

    Oct 31st, 2007 at 5:48 pm
    .and Clem (nah he’s old isn’t he) and Chester and Pansy (I quite like her) and Georgina whoops she’s still on the party shit-list for being brown isn’t she (oh and it was so funny when Gerry was Maori spokesman wasn’t it? and there’s.

    Oct 31st, 2007 at 9:35 pm
    What like you?? Get real santa and/or fuck off.

    Oct 31st, 2007 at 3:18 pm
    Yo Santa – I was just concerned for your education, there’s no need to come over all catty. Oh yeah – Fuck off (I think I forgot last time)

    Nov 1st, 2007 at 3:22 pm
    Bryce – you’re an arse. I’ve been following your comments on this blog for a while and (surprisingly for me) keeping my mouth shut but someone from the libertarian left has to say this mate – you’re living in a dream world if you think bagging Labour with Tory lines (‘cos that’s what you’re recycling) is going to make things better.

    Nov 13th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
    Bill you old psychopath – they let you out! How’d you get away with it? I hear you carved your initials in her corpse – is that true bro?

    Nov 13th, 2007 at 11:08 pm
    Bill – you sound like you’re losing it. Don’t hurt anyone and try not to sent anymore hate mail to Helen – the SIS is gonna have to stop being understanding about it at some stage, ok?

  91. Santi 91

    I side with IP on this one. For vileness nothing worse than Robinsond.

  92. Gruela 92

    Santi

    Keep going. Your posts are an eloquent guide to the value and insight of your opinions.

    I’m sure that everyone who reads them will give them precisely the attention they deserve.

  93. Santi 93

    Relax Gruela and enjoy the last few months in power before this (yours?) mob of socialists bite the dust, as they thoroughly deserve it.

  94. The Double Standard 94

    Santi – Gruela seems to be to the left of the Greens. I doubt that Teh Party is her mob.

  95. Gruela 95

    I thought my mob was the Nazi party?

    (Incidentally, I’m male.)

  96. The Double Standard 96

    (Incidentally, I’m male.)

    Oops, sorry

    I did wonder when I was writing that comment, but decided to take a punt. I guess I was thinking of Cruella de Ville

  97. Robinsod 97

    Jeez – you guys have been stalking me. I’m touched, it’s like a walk down memory lane (you forgot the things I said about Bevan’s mum though) – I never said I was a choirboy I just pointed out you weren’t either. Guess what? I’m not the one bitching about it, you are. That make you a hypocrite – look it up.

    Oh and Prick – I’m getting closer to figuring out who you are – I’ve had a couple of good tips…

    Own. Medicine. Taste of.

  98. robinnome you should be a lot more concerned about people finding out who you are.
    Interesting post on DPF at the moment. The VRWC is running a book on who the guilty party is. You are at very short odds.

  99. nih 100

    BB: haven’t you threatened to cut up Robinsod and leave parts of him in wheelie bins? That was you, wasn’t it? Can you clarify?

    In light of those comments, perhaps your veiled threats above need some police attention.

  100. Breathtaking hypocrisy, lesson 20483 from the Standard:

    Robinsod claims he’s being stalked. In the very next sentence, he claims to be stalking another blogger.

    nih: your comments on this blog are hardly a credit to the labour movement, either.

  101. nih 102

    My comments are brilliant and splendid totems to humility.

  102. nih, I had previously thought that you were less toxic than robinnome. Wrong again!

  103. nih 104

    What, no mention of dismemberment? I’m disappointed. Up until now you far and beyond ranked as the most psychotic poster on The Standard.

    I guess it’s hard work maintaining 15 logins and still being uniquely creative. I look forward to all of your sockpuppet voices blending into one.

  104. thats rich coming from you nih. I have one user name across all the different blogs and forums I post on, with your puerile repetition of robinnomes vile comments you leave yourself wide open to similar comments.

  105. nih 106

    Yeah, I bet I’ll get dismembered. That’ll teach me to have an opinion different from yours.

    Disgusting fringe psychopath.

  106. nih/robinsod or whatever “nick” you want to use…can one of you step back from the circle jerk just long enough to explain where the dismemberment comments are coming from? Although whistling up your crazy comments is fun, the whole chopping up thing is a little strange and i am curious to know why??

  107. nih 108

    Just because the right sockpuppets doesn’t mean normal people do too. This is the only handle I use. You’ll never come close to having that kind of honour.

    Now play stupid and pretend you didn’t threaten to “chop everyone up”. Good boy. Have a bikkie.

  108. Robinsod 109

    Bill – I believe your reputation as a psycho began when you tacitly threatened Rogernome:

    http://www.kiwiblog.co.nz/2007/11/no_prosecutions_under_the_terrorism_suppression_act.html#comment-364000

    Add that to your repugnant blog postings and your “silence of the lambs “-type infatuation with Whale and you’re a pretty good contender for most sociopathic rightie…

  109. nih 110

    Oh, snap!

    You’re a psychopath but nobody is afraid of you. It’d make a great Adam Sandler movie.

  110. Robinsod 111

    Oh and Bill – I’d say the only way you could get a grown man to fit in a wheelie bin would be dismemberment. So do you like spend your evening sharping your knives?

  111. Robert owen 112

    As the debate has sunk to a low level It appears that I, the dirtbag extraordinaire. can now participate.

    I find it incredible that people so abusive as Redbaiter and D4J . And plainly disgusting as Stanley climbfall can still log on.

    Whereas little old me, never said anything that abusive,is banned for life

    The mistake I made was to find out that DPF was posting under a different identity any called him up on it.
    I santa (me) said “If you can lie about that how can we believe anything you say”
    Surely thats not as bad as Stanley posting links of women crapping into cups ?
    I guess i got to close to the truth I think that
    David can be compared to some sort of spoilt adolescent youth ,the immature attitude to women, the vanity and not having the maturity to accept criticism and admit when wrong.
    Now I’m sure socially Davis is a very “nice’ person. Indeed generally people who exhibit the same sort have behaviours as DPF have to be loved by one and all because of the deep insecurities that lie deep and buried within
    [and I should know 🙂 ]

    Ok goodnight one and all

  112. Just in case somebody other than you fuckwits read this I will post the whole comment that I made with regard to robinnome over on kiwiblog.
    The robinnome had been particularly abusive that night towards many posters and everybody was heartily sick of his vile dribble.

    I wrote; “David, you wrote
    “This is a huge blow to Police credibility.”
    The credibility of Helens police service has been eroded at an increasingly frantic pace ever since she Lied to the SST about Doone. Since that night of the long knives against our police, they have succumbed completely to the will of Clarke and her party.
    It is now 6 days since WE ALL witnessed an aggravated assault by a member of the labour party on film.
    has he been charged? Has anybody in the labour party been charged with anything in the last few years?
    People too stupid to read now know the words prima facie.
    Each time these mutts break another law we all wail for a few weeks and then let it go, until the next time and then the cycle begins again.. ad infinitum.
    I wrote at the time of the arrests that this would all be a big beat up and so it has come to pass.
    A few drunk maori and fellow travellers have a whinge in the woods, having a big whiny circle jerk, is not terrorism.
    The timing of these arrests was suspect at best and deliberate at worst. Clarkes new terror laws are currently before parliament and the right response from the solicitor general today would have helped clarkes plans immensely.
    Lucky for all of us Broad and Clarke have been shown up for the liars they are.
    And roger nome. you must have compromising photos of david because if you came into my house and behaved the way you do here you would be going home in a wheelie bin.”
    Hardly a Thomas Harris moment!
    But keep making the highly defamatory comments weeman, I am impervious to your drivel.

  113. Robinsod 114

    Bill you old psycho – you seem very touchy about your reputation. As I’ve said before you may want to consider not saying and doing repugnant things if you don’t want to be viewed as repugnant. I get the feeling you don’t want to stop being a psycho though so you may just have to learn to deal with the fact that people find you creepy.

    Oh and Bill? Your whining about defamation doesn’t cut it when you’re making shit like this up about people:

    http://www.whaleoil.co.nz/?q=node/5394#comment-10148

    And y’know what? I get the feeling you still won’t see what’s wrong with your behavior – you may even blame me for pointing it out. That’s what makes you a sociopath.

  114. it’s true robinnome, he has admitted it himself. they have been in a relationship since his partner was a student.
    I see you post over there as robinson rather than robinsod. Why is that?

  115. Robinsod 116

    Bill – I think you’ll find that he was a student at the time. Your use of the term “school boy” is an attempt to paint the man as a pedophile. You know that full well but prefer to use innuendo to smear people and then disingenuously pretend you didn’t really mean that at all – it seems you are a coward as well as a psycho.

    Oh and “Robinson” is my old handle – I still use it where “Robinsod” is blocked – except on NZ conservative ‘cos I kinda like them and “robinson” is a more polite handle.

  116. nih 117

    Hey Bill, is that your real name? Are you a West Aucklander? Because I actually know someone with your issues, back story and attitude problems.

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    How to Retrieve Deleted Call Log on iPhone Without a Computer: A StepbyStep Guide Losing your iPhone call history can be frustrating, especially when you need to find a specific number or recall an important conversation. But before you panic, know that there are ways to retrieve deleted call logs on your iPhone, even without a computer. This guide will explore various methods, ranging from simple checks to utilizing iCloud backups and thirdparty applications. So, lets dive in and recover those lost calls! 1. Check Recently Deleted Folder: Apple understands that accidental deletions happen. Thats why they introduced the Recently Deleted folder for various apps, including the Phone app. This folder acts as a safety net, storing deleted call logs for up to 30 days before permanently erasing them. Heres how to check it: Open the Phone app on your iPhone. Tap on the Recents tab at the bottom. Scroll to the top and tap on Edit. Select Show Recently Deleted. Browse the list to find the call logs you want to recover. Tap on the desired call log and choose Recover to restore it to your call history. 2. Restore from iCloud Backup: If you regularly back up your iPhone to iCloud, you might be able to retrieve your deleted call log from a previous backup. However, keep in mind that this process will restore your entire phone to the state it was in at the time of the backup, potentially erasing any data added since then. Heres how to restore from an iCloud backup: Go to Settings > General > Reset. Choose Erase All Content and Settings. Follow the onscreen instructions. Your iPhone will restart and show the initial setup screen. Choose Restore from iCloud Backup during the setup process. Select the relevant backup that contains your deleted call log. Wait for the restoration process to complete. 3. Explore ThirdParty Apps (with Caution): ...
    1 day ago
  • How to Factory Reset iPhone without Computer: A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring your Device
    Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, those curveballs necessitate wiping your iPhone clean and starting anew. Whether you’re facing persistent software glitches, preparing to sell your device, or simply wanting a fresh start, knowing how to factory reset iPhone without a computer is a valuable skill. While using a computer with ...
    2 days ago
  • How to Call Someone on a Computer: A Guide to Voice and Video Communication in the Digital Age
    Gone are the days when communication was limited to landline phones and physical proximity. Today, computers have become powerful tools for connecting with people across the globe through voice and video calls. But with a plethora of applications and methods available, how to call someone on a computer might seem ...
    2 days ago
  • Skeptical Science New Research for Week #16 2024
    Open access notables Glacial isostatic adjustment reduces past and future Arctic subsea permafrost, Creel et al., Nature Communications: Sea-level rise submerges terrestrial permafrost in the Arctic, turning it into subsea permafrost. Subsea permafrost underlies ~ 1.8 million km2 of Arctic continental shelf, with thicknesses in places exceeding 700 m. Sea-level variations over glacial-interglacial cycles control ...
    2 days ago
  • Where on a Computer is the Operating System Generally Stored? Delving into the Digital Home of your ...
    The operating system (OS) is the heart and soul of a computer, orchestrating every action and interaction between hardware and software. But have you ever wondered where on a computer is the operating system generally stored? The answer lies in the intricate dance between hardware and software components, particularly within ...
    2 days ago
  • How Many Watts Does a Laptop Use? Understanding Power Consumption and Efficiency
    Laptops have become essential tools for work, entertainment, and communication, offering portability and functionality. However, with rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, understanding a laptop’s power consumption is more important than ever. So, how many watts does a laptop use? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward. It depends on several ...
    2 days ago
  • How to Screen Record on a Dell Laptop A Guide to Capturing Your Screen with Ease
    Screen recording has become an essential tool for various purposes, such as creating tutorials, capturing gameplay footage, recording online meetings, or sharing information with others. Fortunately, Dell laptops offer several built-in and external options for screen recording, catering to different needs and preferences. This guide will explore various methods on ...
    2 days ago
  • How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Laptop Screen? Navigating Repair Options and Costs
    A cracked or damaged laptop screen can be a frustrating experience, impacting productivity and enjoyment. Fortunately, laptop screen repair is a common service offered by various repair shops and technicians. However, the cost of fixing a laptop screen can vary significantly depending on several factors. This article delves into the ...
    2 days ago
  • How Long Do Gaming Laptops Last? Demystifying Lifespan and Maximizing Longevity
    Gaming laptops represent a significant investment for passionate gamers, offering portability and powerful performance for immersive gaming experiences. However, a common concern among potential buyers is their lifespan. Unlike desktop PCs, which allow for easier component upgrades, gaming laptops have inherent limitations due to their compact and integrated design. This ...
    2 days ago
  • Climate Change: Turning the tide
    The annual inventory report of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions has been released, showing that gross emissions have dropped for the third year in a row, to 78.4 million tons: All-told gross emissions have decreased by over 6 million tons since the Zero Carbon Act was passed in 2019. ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    2 days ago
  • How to Unlock Your Computer A Comprehensive Guide to Regaining Access
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    2 days ago
  • Faxing from Your Computer A Modern Guide to Sending Documents Digitally
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    2 days ago
  • Protecting Your Home Computer A Guide to Cyber Awareness
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    2 days ago
  • Server-Based Computing Powering the Modern Digital Landscape
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    2 days ago
  • Vroom vroom go the big red trucks
    The absolute brass neck of this guy.We want more medical doctors, not more spin doctors, Luxon was saying a couple of weeks ago, and now we’re told the guy has seven salaried adults on TikTok duty. Sorry, doing social media. The absolute brass neck of it. The irony that the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    2 days ago
  • Jones finds $410,000 to help the government muscle in on a spat project
    Buzz from the Beehive Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones relishes spatting and eagerly takes issue with environmentalists who criticise his enthusiasm for resource development. He relishes helping the fishing industry too. And so today, while the media are making much of the latest culling in the public service to ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    2 days ago
  • Again, hate crimes are not necessarily terrorism.
    Having written, taught and worked for the US government on issues involving unconventional warfare and terrorism for 30-odd years, two things irritate me the most when the subject is discussed in public. The first is the Johnny-come-lately academics-turned-media commentators who … Continue reading ...
    KiwipoliticoBy Pablo
    2 days ago
  • Despair – construction consenting edition
    Eric Crampton writes – Kainga Ora is the government’s house building agency. It’s been building a lot of social housing. Kainga Ora has its own (but independent) consenting authority, Consentium. It’s a neat idea. Rather than have to deal with building consents across each different territorial authority, Kainga Ora ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Coalition promises – will the Govt keep the commitment to keep Kiwis equal before the law?
    Muriel Newman writes – The Coalition Government says it is moving with speed to deliver campaign promises and reverse the damage done by Labour. One of their key commitments is to “defend the principle that New Zealanders are equal before the law.” To achieve this, they have pledged they “will not advance ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • An impermanent public service is a guarantee of very little else but failure
    Chris Trotter writes –  The absence of anything resembling a fightback from the public servants currently losing their jobs is interesting. State-sector workers’ collective fatalism in the face of Coalition cutbacks indicates a surprisingly broad acceptance of impermanence in the workplace. Fifty years ago, lay-offs in the thousands ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • What happens after the war – Mariupol
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    2 days ago
  • Babies and benefits – no good news
    Lindsay Mitchell writes – Ten years ago, I wrote the following in a Listener column: Every year around one in five new-born babies will be reliant on their caregivers benefit by Christmas. This pattern has persisted from at least 1993. For Maori the number jumps to over one in three.  ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    2 days ago
  • Should the RBNZ be looking through climate inflation?
    Climate change is expected to generate more and more extreme events, delivering a sort of structural shock to inflation that central banks will have to react to as if they were short-term cyclical issues. Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāMy pick of the six newsey things to know from Aotearoa’s ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours, as of 9:16 am on Thursday, April 18 are:Housing: Tauranga residents living in boats, vans RNZ Checkpoint Louise TernouthHousing: Waikato councillor says wastewater plant issues could hold up Sleepyhead building a massive company town Waikato Times Stephen ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    2 days ago
  • Gordon Campbell on the public sector carnage, and misogyny as terrorism
    It’s a simple deal. We pay taxes in order to finance the social services we want and need. The carnage now occurring across the public sector though, is breaking that contract. Over 3,000 jobs have been lost so far. Many are in crucial areas like Education where the impact of ...
    2 days ago
  • Meeting the Master Baiters
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    David FarrierBy David Farrier
    2 days ago
  • How extreme was the Earth's temperature in 2023
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    2 days ago
  • Backbone, revisited
    The schools are on holiday and the sun is shining in the seaside village and all day long I have been seeing bunches of bikes; Mums, Dads, teens and toddlers chattering, laughing, happy, having a bloody great time together. Cheers, AT, for the bits of lane you’ve added lately around the ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    3 days ago
  • Ministers are not above the law
    Today in our National-led authoritarian nightmare: Shane Jones thinks Ministers should be above the law: New Zealand First MP Shane Jones is accusing the Waitangi Tribunal of over-stepping its mandate by subpoenaing a minister for its urgent hearing on the Oranga Tamariki claim. The tribunal is looking into the ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    3 days ago
  • What’s the outfit you can hear going down the gurgler? Probably it’s David Parker’s Oceans Sec...
    Buzz from the Beehive Point  of Order first heard of the Oceans Secretariat in June 2021, when David Parker (remember him?) announced a multi-agency approach to protecting New Zealand’s marine ecosystems and fisheries. Parker (holding the Environment, and Oceans and Fisheries portfolios) broke the news at the annual Forest & ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    3 days ago
  • Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Bryce Edwards writes  – Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • Matt Doocey doubles down on trans “healthcare”
    Citizen Science writes –  Last week saw two significant developments in the debate over the treatment of trans-identifying children and young people – the release in Britain of the final report of Dr Hilary Cass’s review into gender healthcare, and here in New Zealand, the news that the ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    3 days ago
  • A TikTok Prime Minister.
    One night while sleeping in my bed I had a beautiful dreamThat all the people of the world got together on the same wavelengthAnd began helping one anotherNow in this dream, universal love was the theme of the dayPeace and understanding and it happened this wayAfter such an eventful day ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    3 days ago
  • Texas Lessons
    This is a guest post by Oscar Simms who is a housing activist, volunteer for the Coalition for More Homes, and was the Labour Party candidate for Auckland Central at the last election. ...
    Greater AucklandBy Guest Post
    3 days ago
  • Bernard's pick 'n' mix of the news links at 6:06 am
    The top six news links I’ve seen elsewhere in the last 24 hours as of 6:06 am on Wednesday, April 17 are:Must read: Secrecy shrouds which projects might be fast-tracked RNZ Farah HancockScoop: Revealed: Luxon has seven staffers working on social media content - partly paid for by taxpayer Newshub ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    3 days ago
  • Fighting poverty on the holiday highway
    Turning what Labour called the “holiday highway” into a four-lane expressway from Auckland to Whangarei could bring at least an economic benefit of nearly two billion a year for Northland each year. And it could help bring an end to poverty in one of New Zealand’s most deprived regions. The ...
    PolitikBy Richard Harman
    3 days ago
  • Bernard's six-stack of substacks at 6:26 pm
    Tonight’s six-stack includes: launching his substack with a bunch of his previous documentaries, including this 1992 interview with Dame Whina Cooper. and here crew give climate activists plenty to do, including this call to submit against the Fast Track Approvals bill. writes brilliantly here on his substack ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • At a glance – Is the science settled?
    On February 14, 2023 we announced our Rebuttal Update Project. This included an ask for feedback about the added "At a glance" section in the updated basic rebuttal versions. This weekly blog post series highlights this new section of one of the updated basic rebuttal versions and serves as a ...
    4 days ago
  • Apposite Quotations.
    How Long Is Long Enough? Gaza under Israeli bombardment, July 2014. This posting is exclusive to Bowalley Road. ...
    4 days ago
  • What’s a life worth now?
    You're in the mall when you hear it: some kind of popping sound in the distance, kids with fireworks, maybe. But then a moment of eerie stillness is followed by more of the fireworks sound and there’s also screaming and shrieking and now here come people running for their lives.Does ...
    More Than A FeildingBy David Slack
    4 days ago
  • Howling at the Moon
    Karl du Fresne writes –  There’s a crisis in the news media and the media are blaming it on everyone except themselves. Culpability is being deflected elsewhere – mainly to the hapless Minister of Communications, Melissa Lee, and the big social media platforms that are accused of hoovering ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Newshub is Dead.
    I don’t normally send out two newsletters in a day but I figured I’d say something about… the news. If two newsletters is a bit much then maybe just skip one, I don’t want to overload people. Alternatively if you’d be interested in sometimes receiving multiple, smaller updates from me, ...
    Nick’s KōreroBy Nick Rockel
    4 days ago
  • Seymour is chuffed about cutting early-learning red tape – but we hear, too, that Jones has loose...
    Buzz from the Beehive David Seymour and Winston Peters today signalled that at least two ministers of the Crown might be in Wellington today. Seymour (as Associate Minister of Education) announced the removal of more red tape, this time to make it easier for new early learning services to be ...
    Point of OrderBy Bob Edlin
    4 days ago
  • Bryce Edwards: Will politicians let democracy die in the darkness?
    Politicians across the political spectrum are implicated in the New Zealand media’s failing health. Either through neglect or incompetent interventions, successive governments have failed to regulate, foster, and allow a healthy Fourth Estate that can adequately hold politicians and the powerful to account. Our political system is suffering from the ...
    Democracy ProjectBy bryce.edwards
    4 days ago
  • Was Hawkesby entirely wrong?
    David Farrar  writes –  The Broadcasting Standards Authority ruled: Comments by radio host Kate Hawkesby suggesting Māori and Pacific patients were being prioritised for surgery due to their ethnicity were misleading and discriminatory, the Broadcasting Standards Authority has found. It is a fact such patients are prioritised. ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • PRC shadow looms as the Solomons head for election
    PRC and its proxies in Solomons have been preparing for these elections for a long time. A lot of money, effort and intelligence have gone into ensuring an outcome that won’t compromise Beijing’s plans. Cleo Paskall writes – On April 17th the Solomon Islands, a country of ...
    Point of OrderBy poonzteam5443
    4 days ago
  • Climate Change: Criminal ecocide
    We are in the middle of a climate crisis. Last year was (again) the hottest year on record. NOAA has just announced another global coral bleaching event. Floods are threatening UK food security. So naturally, Shane Jones wants to make it easier to mine coal: Resources Minister Shane Jones ...
    No Right TurnBy Idiot/Savant
    4 days ago
  • Is saving one minute of a politician's time worth nearly $1 billion?
    Is speeding up the trip to and from Wellington airport by 12 minutes worth spending up more than $10 billion? Photo: Lynn Grieveson / The KākāTL;DR: The six news items that stood out to me in the last day to 8:26 am today are:The Lead: Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced ...
    The KakaBy Bernard Hickey
    4 days ago
  • Long Tunnel or Long Con?
    Yesterday it was revealed that Transport Minister had asked Waka Kotahi to look at the options for a long tunnel through Wellington. State Highway 1 (SH1) through Wellington City is heavily congested at peak times and while planning continues on the duplicate Mt Victoria Tunnel and Basin Reserve project, the ...
    4 days ago

  • $41m to support clean energy in South East Asia
    New Zealand is demonstrating its commitment to reducing global greenhouse emissions, and supporting clean energy transition in South East Asia, through a contribution of NZ$41 million (US$25 million) in climate finance to the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-led Energy Transition Mechanism (ETM). Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    16 hours ago
  • Minister releases Fast-track stakeholder list
    The Government is today releasing a list of organisations who received letters about the Fast-track applications process, says RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop. “Recently Ministers and agencies have received a series of OIA requests for a list of organisations to whom I wrote with information on applying to have a ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    18 hours ago
  • Judicial appointments announced
    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister David Jonathan Boldt as a Judge of the High Court, and the Honourable Justice Matthew Palmer as a Judge of the Court of Appeal. Justice Boldt graduated with an LLB from Victoria University of Wellington in 1990, and also holds ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    19 hours ago
  • Education Minister heads to major teaching summit in Singapore
    Education Minister Erica Stanford will lead the New Zealand delegation at the 2024 International Summit on the Teaching Profession (ISTP) held in Singapore. The delegation includes representatives from the Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) Te Wehengarua and the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI) Te Riu Roa.  The summit is co-hosted ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago
  • Value of stopbank project proven during cyclone
    A stopbank upgrade project in Tairawhiti partly funded by the Government has increased flood resilience for around 7000ha of residential and horticultural land so far, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. Mr Jones today attended a dawn service in Gisborne to mark the end of the first stage of the ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago
  • Anzac commemorations, Türkiye relationship focus of visit
    Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters will represent the Government at Anzac Day commemorations on the Gallipoli Peninsula next week and engage with senior representatives of the Turkish government in Istanbul.    “The Gallipoli campaign is a defining event in our history. It will be a privilege to share the occasion ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    20 hours ago
  • Minister to Europe for OECD meeting, Anzac Day
    Science, Innovation and Technology and Defence Minister Judith Collins will next week attend the OECD Science and Technology Ministerial conference in Paris and Anzac Day commemorations in Belgium. “Science, innovation and technology have a major role to play in rebuilding our economy and achieving better health, environmental and social outcomes ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    23 hours ago
  • Comprehensive Partnership the goal for NZ and the Philippines
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.  The Prime Minister was accompanied by MP Paulo Garcia, the first Filipino to be elected to a legislature outside the Philippines. During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon and President Marcos Jr discussed opportunities to ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    1 day ago
  • Government commits $20m to Westport flood protection
    The Government has announced that $20 million in funding will be made available to Westport to fund much needed flood protection around the town. This measure will significantly improve the resilience of the community, says Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. “The Westport community has already been allocated almost $3 million ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Taupō takes pole position
    The Government is proud to support the first ever Repco Supercars Championship event in Taupō as up to 70,000 motorsport fans attend the Taupō International Motorsport Park this weekend, says Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee. “Anticipation for the ITM Taupō Super400 is huge, with tickets and accommodation selling out weeks ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Cost of living support for low-income homeowners
    Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced an increase to the Rates Rebate Scheme, putting money back into the pockets of low-income homeowners.  “The coalition Government is committed to bringing down the cost of living for New Zealanders. That includes targeted support for those Kiwis who are doing things tough, such ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Government backing mussel spat project
    The Coalition Government is investing in a project to boost survival rates of New Zealand mussels and grow the industry, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones has announced. “This project seeks to increase the resilience of our mussels and significantly boost the sector’s productivity,” Mr Jones says. “The project - ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Government focused on getting people into work
    Benefit figures released today underscore the importance of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and have 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. “Benefit numbers are still significantly higher than when National was last in government, when there was about 70,000 fewer ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Clean energy key driver to reducing emissions
    The Government’s commitment to doubling New Zealand’s renewable energy capacity is backed by new data showing that clean energy has helped the country reach its lowest annual gross emissions since 1999, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says. New Zealand’s latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory (1990-2022) published today, shows gross emissions fell ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Earthquake-prone buildings review brought forward
    The Government is bringing the earthquake-prone building review forward, with work to start immediately, and extending the deadline for remediations by four years, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “Our Government is focused on rebuilding the economy. A key part of our plan is to cut red tape that ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    2 days ago
  • Thailand and NZ to agree to Strategic Partnership
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Thai counterpart, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, have today agreed that New Zealand and the Kingdom of Thailand will upgrade the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership by 2026. “New Zealand and Thailand have a lot to offer each other. We have a strong mutual desire to build ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Government consults on extending coastal permits for ports
    RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Transport Minister Simeon Brown have today announced the Coalition Government’s intention to extend port coastal permits for a further 20 years, providing port operators with certainty to continue their operations. “The introduction of the Resource Management Act in 1991 required ports to obtain coastal ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Inflation coming down, but more work to do
    Today’s announcement that inflation is down to 4 per cent is encouraging news for Kiwis, but there is more work to be done - underlining the importance of the Government’s plan to get the economy back on track, acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop says. “Inflation is now at 4 per ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • School attendance restored as a priority in health advice
    Refreshed health guidance released today will help parents and schools make informed decisions about whether their child needs to be in school, addressing one of the key issues affecting school attendance, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. In recent years, consistently across all school terms, short-term illness or medical reasons ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Unnecessary bureaucracy cut in oceans sector
    Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is streamlining high-level oceans management while maintaining a focus on supporting the sector’s role in the export-led recovery of the economy. “I am working to realise the untapped potential of our fishing and aquaculture sector. To achieve that we need to be smarter with ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    3 days ago
  • Patterson promoting NZ’s wool sector at International Congress
    Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is speaking at the International Wool Textile Organisation Congress in Adelaide, promoting New Zealand wool, and outlining the coalition Government’s support for the revitalisation the sector.    "New Zealand’s wool exports reached $400 million in the year to 30 June 2023, and the coalition Government ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Removing red tape to help early learners thrive
    The Government is making legislative changes to make it easier for new early learning services to be established, and for existing services to operate, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. The changes involve repealing the network approval provisions that apply when someone wants to establish a new early learning service, ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • RMA changes to cut coal mining consent red tape
    Changes to the Resource Management Act will align consenting for coal mining to other forms of mining to reduce barriers that are holding back economic development, Resources Minister Shane Jones says. “The inconsistent treatment of coal mining compared with other extractive activities is burdensome red tape that fails to acknowledge ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • McClay reaffirms strong NZ-China trade relationship
    Trade, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay has concluded productive discussions with ministerial counterparts in Beijing today, in support of the New Zealand-China trade and economic relationship. “My meeting with Commerce Minister Wang Wentao reaffirmed the complementary nature of the bilateral trade relationship, with our Free Trade Agreement at its ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • Prime Minister Luxon acknowledges legacy of Singapore Prime Minister Lee
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today paid tribute to Singapore’s outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.   Meeting in Singapore today immediately before Prime Minister Lee announced he was stepping down, Prime Minister Luxon warmly acknowledged his counterpart’s almost twenty years as leader, and the enduring legacy he has left for Singapore and South East ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    4 days ago
  • PMs Luxon and Lee deepen Singapore-NZ ties
    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon held a bilateral meeting today with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. While in Singapore as part of his visit to South East Asia this week, Prime Minister Luxon also met with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and will meet with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.  During today’s meeting, Prime Minister Luxon ...
    BeehiveBy beehive.govt.nz
    5 days ago
  • Antarctica New Zealand Board appointments
    Foreign Minister Winston Peters has made further appointments to the Board of Antarctica New Zealand as part of a continued effort to ensure the Scott Base Redevelopment project is delivered in a cost-effective and efficient manner.  The Minister has appointed Neville Harris as a new member of the Board. Mr ...
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