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madness. US

US Leaves Kansas.

Written By: Bill

Date published: 4:28 pm, July 31st, 2017 - 18 comments

I guess it’s kind of hard to anchor something that’s all up in the air…

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The Health Crisis and the Election

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In nuclear diplomacy, Australia can work bilaterally, too – especially with India
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13 October 2026
More job cuts at Stuff as well as proposed cuts at the new MCERT mega ministry all feature in today’s Union News. Sandra will be interviewed by Radio Waatea in their post-minor election leaders’ debate tonight at approximately 8:30 alongside Teanau Tuiono, David Cunliffe, Quilae Wong, Professor Wayne Hope, Matthew Tukaki and Dr Harpreet Singh. Union… Read More »13 October 2026 The post 13 October 2026 appeared first on NZCTU.
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Love of the Common People
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National & Labour fiscal plans lock in stagnation
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My First Autopsy
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The US needs its own grey-zone tactics in the South China Sea
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The Kaka by Bernard Hickey · 13 October 2026

Te Pāti Māori launches Mana Takatāpui Policy
Te Pāti Māori has today launched its Mana Takatāpui Policy, committing $200 million over three years and establishing an independent, Takatāpui governed Commission with real authority over Takatāpui specific funding. Te Pāti Māori Co Leader Rawiri Waititi says the policy is built on a simple principle: Nothing about Takatāpui without Takatāpui. “For too long, decisions have been made about Takatāpui without Takatāpui. Our policy changes who holds the power,” Waititi said.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 23 September 2026
We Want Cheaper Power And We Want Our People To Own It.
Te Pāti Māori has today announced its Energy Sovereignty policy, a plan to cut power costs, build Aotearoa’s energy future and shift ownership into the hands of whānau, hapū, iwi and communities. “Every party is talking about generating more electricity. We’re asking the question they keep avoiding: who will own it?” said Te Pāti Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi “If we replace fossil fuels with renewables but leave ownership and profits concentrated in the same hands, we haven’t transformed the system. We’ve just c
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 16 September 2026
GOVERNMENT'S LAST ACT IS ANOTHER ATTACK ON TE TIRITI
In its final days, this Government is trying to strip Te Tiriti from our laws. Three Treaty-related Bills before Parliament would weaken Te Tiriti protections and reduce Crown accountability. Te Pāti Māori opposes every one of them. Instead, Te Pāti Māori are calling for Te Tiriti to be protected through enforceable Crown obligations that no Government can simply discard.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 15 September 2026
TE PĀTI MĀORI LAUNCHES TE TIRITI ENTRENCHMENT POLICY
Te Pāti Māori has today launched its Te Tiriti Entrenchment Policy, a major constitutional reform package that will make Crown obligations arising from Te Tiriti legally enforceable and resource the next stage of Māori-led constitutional transformation. “Te Tiriti is the constitutional foundation of Aotearoa. Its mana does not rise and fall depending on who forms the Government,” Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi said. “Our policy is about certainty, accountability and making sure the Crown keeps its p
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 1 September 2026
MP for Hauraki-Waikato Hana-Rawhiti Calls on Govt to Honour its Commitments to Waikato and Waipaa Awa
Hauraki-Waikato MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke says the Government’s decision to delay key provisions of Plan Change 1, which sets rules to protect and restore the health of the Waikato and Waipaa awa, puts 3-yearly electoral interests ahead of its obligations to iwi and the environment. “This is bigger than a plan or a process. It is about whether the Crown will keep its word to Waikato-Tainui and honour the commitments it made – and written into legislation” says Maipi-Clarke. “The power of Te Ture Whaimana
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 24 August 2026
Luxon chose culture wars while basic services failed
Christopher Luxon has spent too much of his term legislating culture wars while the basic services New Zealanders rely on have been allowed to deteriorate, Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer says. “The Prime Minister had a finite term to govern. He chose to spend an extraordinary amount of it undoing Māori rights and weakening Crown obligations while the services New Zealanders depend on were deteriorating,” Ngarewa-Packer said. “He found the time to mobilise 13 government agencies to trawl throu
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 18 August 2026
Luxon survives today, but he will not survive November 7
Today’s National Party caucus meeting may have saved Christopher Luxon’s job, but it has not solved National’s deeper problem. This government is consumed by its own survival while whānau are left to carry the cost. For days, New Zealanders have watched a governing party turn inward while families face rising costs, job losses and an economy going backwards. “Luxon may have kept the job, but National has lost the country’s confidence,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader, Rawiri Waititi.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 12 August 2026
Oriini Kaipara MP extends aroha following fatal workplace incident in Ōtāhuhu
Oriini Kaipara, MP for Tāmaki Makaurau, extends her deepest condolences to the whānau, friends and work colleagues of the worker who tragically lost their life at the Auckland Meat Processors facility on Portage Road, Ōtāhuhu. "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the whānau who are now navigating an unimaginable loss. No one should leave for work and not return home to their loved ones." Following notification of the incident, Oriini's office has been actively seeking information to better understand t
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 7 August 2026
Te Pati Maori will make the Waitangi Tribunal recommendations binding
Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi says New Zealand First's call to review the Waitangi Tribunal proves the coalition has learnt nothing from the Tribunal's latest report. "The Waitangi Tribunal has found that the Government's Treaty clause review is a major breach of Te Tiriti. Instead of fixing the breach, Shane Jones wants to investigate the institution that exposed it." Waititi says this is about far more than constitutional law.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 6 August 2026
Government’s patriarchal noise cannot hide cervical-screening failure
While this Government and its allies manufacture patriarchal noise and drag public debate into personal attacks, a serious health-system failure involving nearly one million cervical screening notifications demands urgent answers. Health New Zealand says there is “no indication of harm”, but the Government has produced no evidence that proves nobody missed screening, follow-up care or an earlier diagnosis.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 5 August 2026
Government rips up another promise of partnership with Māori
Te Pāti Māori Co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer says the Government’s reported decision to scrap existing Mana Whakahono ā Rohe agreements is not planning reform it’s another deliberate step in dismantling the Crown’s relationship with tangata whenua. “This Government isn’t just rewriting planning law. It is rewriting the place of Māori in Aotearoa.” “One law at a time, one institution at a time, one agreement at a time, they are removing the practical ways Te Tiriti is honoured.”
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 21 July 2026
MFAT Must Act Urgently to Free Everlee Wihongi After Another Delayed Hearing
Everlee Wihongi was set to appear in court today to be freed from ICE detention. Unfortunately, approximately 80 minutes before it was scheduled to begin, the Immigration Court decided to postpone the hearing until June 30, 2026. ICE has no reason to continue to detain Everlee after the conviction that formed the basis of the immigration case was successfully overturned. Everlee has now been detained for over two months, and this is just the latest in a long line of unnecessary delays. “Our aroha goes out t
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 18 June 2026
Te Pāti Māori Announces Lisa Marie Murch as Te Tai Tonga Candidate for 2026
Te Pāti Māori is proud to announce Lisa Marie Murch as its candidate for Te Tai Tonga in the 2026 General Election. Born and raised in Murihiku, Lisa brings lived experience, education, service, and a deep commitment to whānau Māori across Te Waipounamu. A young Māori mother at sixteen, Lisa knows firsthand the realities many whānau face. Her journey from cleaning and baking, to becoming a head baker, bilingual primary teacher, kaupapa Māori educator, and specialist across Murihiku and Ōtepoti schools, is g
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 15 June 2026
Government Hid Its Own Evidence on LNG
Te Pāti Māori is calling on the Government to release all remaining redacted advice on the proposed Taranaki LNG import terminal and halt the contract process until full public disclosure has occurred. This week RNZ revealed that officials redacted modelling commissioned by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment showing low need for LNG imports. In some scenarios, no need at all. That information was only made public after RNZ lodged a complaint with the Ombudsman. Parts of the document remain
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 11 June 2026
Seymour Admits He Never Checked Impact on Māori with Diabetes
David Seymour Associate Minister of Health confirmed in answers to Written Parliamentary Questions that he supported removing Māori and Pacific priority access to Type 2 diabetes medicines, without any equity analysis, without modelling of Māori complications, and holds no data on how many Māori currently rely on the pathway they're removing. Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer said the admissions were negligible. "They don't know who they're harming. They don't know how many Māori with diabetes r
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 10 June 2026
If The Government Really Wants To Lower Power Bills, This Is The Way
Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer says the government’s LNG announcement today exposes a fundamental failure of energy policy leadership. “Simeon Brown says he has an answer to our energy security problem. A billion-dollar contract to import liquefied natural gas. From the Middle East. With no plan to pay for it. That’s not energy security, that’s energy dependency,” says Ngarewa-Packer. “Initially the government planned a levy on power bills to fund this facility. Now they want the same gentail
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 9 June 2026
Govt will Erase Iwi Representation Across Aotearoa
Today the government announced that they will be removing the voting rights of iwi representatives from all councils across the country. They will be amending the Local Government (System Improvements) Bill after it has already gone through select committee, meaning that there will be no public submission process. “This is another gut punch, and our people are fed up” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader, Rawiri Waititi. “Every time we think this government couldn’t possibly harm te iwi Māori any more, they always
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 2 June 2026
TPM to Entrench Te Tiriti: Government’s Tiriti Purge is Constitutional Vandalism
Te Pāti Māori is condemning today’s announcement by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith to strip or weaken Te Tiriti o Waitangi references across 19 pieces of legislation. “This is not policy reform. It is constitutional vandalism.” After failing to redefine Te Tiriti through the Treaty Principles Bill, the Government is now dismantling it clause by clause through legislative review instead. Different vehicle. Same destination.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 15 May 2026
Te Pāti Māori responds to announcement of new political party
Te Pāti Māori acknowledges Mariameno Kapa-Kingi’s announcement that she intends to contest the 2026 General Election under the newly announced Te Tai Tokerau Party. We wish Mariameno well. Te ao Māori has always carried many voices, many rohe, many whakapapa, and many expressions of mana motuhake. We respect the right of whānau, hapū, iwi, rohe and candidates to determine their own political pathway.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 11 May 2026
MP Govt Floats Nuclear Jones Must Front Up
Te Pāti Māori is demanding answers after Shane Jones casually floated nuclear fission in the House today. Co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer said, “Aotearoa is not neutral on nuclear. We are proudly anti-nuclear. That position was fought for, defended, and embedded in who we are as a nation.” “Is this Government marching us away from our nuclear-free legacy? Because Aotearoa deserves to know,” said Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.
Te Pāti Māori by Te Pāti Māori · 29 April 2026

KiwiRail to fund additional ferries works in Picton
KiwiRail will directly fund up to $37.5 million for Picton rail yard upgrades and adding auto-mooring technology to the new wharf as part of the New Ferries project, Rail Minister Winston Peters announced today. “Selecting KiwiRail as the long-term operator of the Interislander has given the company confidence to invest its own funds in commercial assets, meaning the taxpayer is not paying a cent more than our $1.7 billion allocation but still achieves the benefit as the ultimate owner of KiwiRail,” Mr Pete
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
Resilience work underway for key South Island route
Work to bolster the resilience of a key South Island route vital to New Zealand tourism will soon begin, South Island and Associate Transport Minister James Meager says. “The Government allocated around $40 million in Budget 2026 to fund resilience upgrades to State Highway 94 (SH94) between Te Anau and Milford, as part of a wider $150 million-plus package to strengthen five of the mainland’s most vulnerable state highways,” Mr Meager says. “There will soon be spades in the ground at key sites on SH94 in Fi
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
King’s Counsel appointments 2026
Attorney-General Chris Bishop today announced the appointments of 12 King’s Counsel. The rank of King’s Counsel is primarily awarded to barristers sole who have met the overarching criteria of excellence in their careers. The 12 new King’s Counsel appointed, from over 100 applications, are Matanuku Mahuika, Karen Radich, Janette Campbell, Matthew Harris, Kirsten Gray, Tim Smith, Polly Pope, Kerry Cook, Sam Lowery, Rob Kirkness, Isaac Hikaka, and Annabel Maxwell-Scott. “The appointment of King’s Counsel reco
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
Levy reduction for cruise industry
Cruise ship passengers will pay significantly lower Border Processing Levy rates from 1 July 2027, Customs Minister Casey Costello said today. From 1 July 2027, cruise passengers will see a net reduction of NZ$19.91 per person through the combined arrival and departure levy rate changes. The Border Processing Levy for arriving cruise passengers will lower from NZ$27.14 to NZ$7.20, while the levy for outgoing passengers will increase by three cents per person. “The levy system is working as intended. Where f
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
New construction ACOP to bring health and safety clarity
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden today launched a new Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) that outlines practical steps businesses and workers can take to meet their health and safety responsibilities on residential construction sites. “This ACOP will provide practical, sector-specific information to help clients, principal contractors, contractors, subcontractors and workers prepare for upcoming changes to health and safety law, and support better outcomes across New Zealand's residen
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
West Coast infrastructure upgrades on course
Investment from the Regional Infrastructure Fund is delivering progress on key projects on the West Coast, Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says. "Improvements to key shipping ports and the upgrade of Hokitika Airport are part of the government’s support for the West Coast’s economic growth and resilience,” Mr Patterson says. Mr Patterson joined local leaders and iwi today at the blessing of Greymouth Port's new port sounding vessel, which will be used to monitor and manage the port’s
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Friday
Hunua Quarry development fast-tracked
A third substantial Auckland quarry project has gained Fast-track approval to expand operations, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Resources Minister Shane Jones say. This is the 37th project approved through the Fast-track process. Winstone Aggregates lodged its application in March 2026, with approval taking around four months from the appointment of an independent expert panel. The redevelopment of Hunua Quarry will expand existing quarrying activities to allow Winstone Aggregates to deepen the ex
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Thursday
SH54 resilience improvements on the way
A crash-prone bridge in Manawatū currently down to one lane is set to be replaced with funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Chris Bishop say. The project to replace Haynes Bridge on State Highway 54 will receive funding of $6.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund. Mr Jones says the investment in the new bridge on a key Manawatū-Whanganui route will deliver benefits for communities and businesses throughout the region. "Safe
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Thursday
New term, same story; attendance up again
Provisional school attendance data for Term 3 2026 shows despite a tough flu season in person attendance rates were the highest of any Term 3 since 2022, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. In Term 3 2026, 52.2% of students met the criteria for regular attendance, representing a 1.7 percentage point increase from 50.5% in Term 3 2025. A student attends school ‘regularly’ when they are in class for more than 90 per cent of the term. “This data shows attendance rates continue to rise under this G
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · Thursday
International tourism nears full recovery
International visitor numbers are now within a whisker of pre-pandemic levels, with four months left to go in the year and the summer season yet to hit, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says. Stats NZ data out today shows the total number of overseas visitor arrivals in August 2026 was 99 per cent of the 251,100 in August 2019. “In 2025 I set the ambitious goal to increase the number of international visitors to New Zealand to at least 2019 levels by 2026. “This monthly data shows we are well
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
Open ocean opportunities for iwi aquaculture
The Government has set aside areas suitable for aquaculture to ensure Marlborough iwi have the opportunity to contribute to the region’s open ocean aquaculture boom, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. “The two Aquaculture Settlement Areas (ASAs) ensure suitable space in the region remains available while the Crown and Te Tau Ihu iwi negotiate a settlement under the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act,” Mr Jones says. “With the launch earlier this year of New Zealand’s first open
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
Diesel reserve extended to maintain fuel security
The Government has extended an agreement for a 550,000-barrel strategic diesel reserve until August 2027 to maintain New Zealand’s fuel resilience, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones say. “Maintaining our national fuel security, particularly through a period of global uncertainty, remains a top priority for the Government. That’s why we’re pleased to announce this extension to our existing deal with Z Energy for the diesel reserve at Marsden Point,” Nicola Willis says.
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
Survivor Support and Recognition Fund to open next year
The Government has approved a third and final round of the Survivor Support and Recognition Fund (SSRF). The fund supports community-led services and initiatives for survivors of abuse and neglect in care This $820,000 contestable fund will be available to non-government organisations and community groups that directly support survivors of abuse in care,” says Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford. Applications are expected to open in February 2027. The Department of Internal Affairs' Community Operatio
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
Long overdue replacement for critical bridge
Another bridge on South Canterbury’s State Highway 82 will be replaced, through funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Chris Bishop say. The Deep Creek Bridge on SH82 will be replaced at a cost of $7.5 million. Elephant Hill Stream Bridge has already been replaced, and Waihao North Bridge is in the process of being replaced Deep Creek Bridge carries about 1850 vehicles each day and supports local journeys, agricultural activity and fre
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
It's all adding up: More maths gains for Kiwi kids
New independent assessment results show primary and intermediate students made the equivalent of four months' additional progress in mathematics between 2024 and 2026, signalling a turnaround in achievement, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. The latest Progressive Achievement Test (PAT) data, released today by the New Zealand Council for Educational Research (NZCER), show statistically significant improvements in mathematics and reading comprehension and vocabulary. “Our number one priority in educati
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 14 October 2026
Auckland gets another Crisis Recovery Café
People in Auckland in need of mental health or addiction support will have another place to turn for faster access to support, with a new peer-led Crisis Recovery Café officially opening in Mt Eden, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says. “Emergency departments aren’t always the best environment for someone experiencing mental distress. They can be busy, brightly lit and feel far too clinical, when often what someone needs is a calm place to sit down and talk to someone who understands. “That’s why we are
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 13 October 2026
Damning report shows Teaching Council failed to protect children
A damning new independent review has revealed how repeated failures by the Teaching Council allowed a teacher with a known history of offending to remain in the profession before he went on to commit indecent acts against children, Minister of Education Erica Stanford says. The independent regulatory review undertaken by Katherine Anderson KC follows the equally damning 2025 Debbie Francis review, which exposed a deeply concerning culture within the Teaching Council. “First and foremost, my thoughts are wit
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 13 October 2026
New ward boosts capacity at Hawke’s Bay Hospital
Hawke’s Bay patients will benefit from faster access to surgical care with the opening of a new 28-bed ward at Hawke’s Bay Hospital, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. “This new ward is a practical solution to meet growing demand, delivering the extra capacity Hawke’s Bay Hospital needs right now and making a real difference for both patients and staff,” Mr Brown says. “It gives surgical patients dedicated space before and after their procedures, along with space for surgical assessment and planning. That m
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 12 October 2026
First state school converts to a charter school
Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that Pakaraka School in Northland has become the first state school to convert to a charter school. “Charter schools give educators more freedom to provide students with an education that suits their needs,” Mr Seymour says. “The Pakaraka community has chosen a new path for its school. They want to be able to build on what is already working for its students, and the charter school model enables them to do that. “In 2024 the school partnered wit
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 12 October 2026
Government ambitious for every child’s education
Thank you, Prime Minister. Over the past three years, we have been focused on one overriding objective: lifting educational achievement for every young New Zealander. And a huge part of that has been closing the equity gap, ensuring that your means do not determine your destiny by providing a world-leading education for every young person in our schools. Because we are ambitious for every child in this country. A world-leading education system starts with ensuring every child learns to read, write and do ma
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 12 October 2026
Additional domestic student places for veterinary science at Massey University
“An increase in the number of funded domestic places in Massey University’s Bachelor of Veterinary Science programme from 125 to 140 per year from 2027 onwards will help address demand for veterinarians in the future,” says Minister for Tertiary Education Penny Simmonds. Minister Simmonds made the announcement during her visit to the university’s Palmerston North campus on Friday, 9 October. “The veterinary workforce plays a key role in our biosecurity, animal welfare, food safety, and export industry. Incr
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 9 October 2026
District Court Judges Appointed
Attorney-General Hon Chris Bishop has announced the appointment of Leighvi Maynard of Gisborne and Nicola Graham of Napier as District Court Judges. Mr Maynard began his legal career at Simpson Grierson in Auckland, where he was a member of the firm’s Environment, Planning and Resource Management team. In 2006 he moved to Gisborne and entered general practice, working across civil, employment, Māori land, family and criminal law jurisdictions before joining the Office of the Crown Solicitor for Rotorua, Tau
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 9 October 2026
Simpler food safety, stronger focus on risk
The Government is proposing changes to make it easier for food businesses to meet their food safety obligations, with less paperwork and a sharper focus on the risks that matter, Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard says. Consultation opened today on an updated Simply Safe & Suitable food control plan template. This is New Zealand's main food control template: a pre-approved, plain-language checklist that tells businesses what steps to follow and what records to keep so their food stays safe. "Businesses hav
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 9 October 2026
Food and fibre exports hit record $65.2 billion
Food and fibre exports reached a record $65.2 billion in the year to 30 June 2026, up $4.8 billion on the year before, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says. "Kiwi farmers and growers keep delivering for the New Zealand economy," Mr McClay says. "This year was already on track to be a record. Their hard work has delivered a result that beats expectations." Exports are up 8 per cent on the previous year and ahead of the Ministry for Primary Industries' June forecast of $64.3 billion. "It's a gre
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 9 October 2026
Investigation into Apollo Stadium site planning rules
An investigation has been launched into whether Christchurch planning rules are getting in the way of new housing, economic growth and the future redevelopment of the former Apollo Projects Stadium site, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says. The investigation follows a request from Christchurch City Council Mayor Phil Mauger to consider changes to the Christchurch District Plan for the 4.93-hectare site at 95 Jack Hinton Drive in Addington. “The temporary Apollo Stadium has served Christchurch well. Now th
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 9 October 2026
Four more school redevelopments get the green light
The Government is investing a further $37 million to redevelop four schools, taking investment in school redevelopment projects approved this year to more than $200 million, Education Minister Erica Stanford says. “When we came into Government, school property was a mess. Around 350 projects could not be delivered within the funding available, schools had been waiting years for certainty, and classrooms were costing around $1.2 million each. “We said we would fix it, and that is exactly what we have been do
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 8 October 2026
Next steps in fight against organised crime
The new Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime (TSOC) Chief Executive Board has met for the first time today, Associate Police Minister Casey Costello has announced. “We need better organised government to fight organised crime, and the Board will help deliver that,” Ms Costello says. “The Government has made a series of decisions to improve our response to TSOC, including appointing a Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG), and putting in place a new TSOC strategy and Action Plan. A key recommendation of the
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 8 October 2026
More Kiwis choosing teaching
More New Zealanders are choosing to become teachers, with initial teacher education enrolments up 40 per cent since 2023. Education Minister Erica Stanford says the increase shows more Kiwis want to be part of New Zealand’s teaching workforce. “We’ve had a real focus on getting more New Zealanders into teaching so we can grow our own workforce and reduce our reliance on recruiting teachers from overseas. “Overseas-trained teachers make an important contribution to our schools, and we will continue to need t
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 8 October 2026
RMA national direction reforms complete
The Government has completed the biggest overhaul of national direction in the history of the Resource Management Act – with the final changes making it faster, easier and more affordable to build and upgrade New Zealand’s electricity and telecommunications networks, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says. “Over the past two years the Government has developed or amended 16 national direction instruments to remove unnecessary barriers to housing, infrastructure, energy and the primary sector,” Mr Bishop says.
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 8 October 2026
Government cracks down on rockpool vandals
Major fishing rule changes will come into force this summer to stop people from stripping rockpools of marine life on the Auckland and Coromandel coastlines, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft say. “Fossicking in a rockpool is a Kiwi tradition. It’s a pastime that’s been enjoyed by generations of New Zealanders. However, it’s being exploited by a selfish few who are taking far too much kaimoana. This behaviour is endangering these fragile ecosystems and putting at r
Beehive by beehive.govt.nz · 8 October 2026

How a US political venture capital firm is trying to influence Brazil’s election
Co-founded by U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, Rockbridge offers candidate Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former and now jailed President Jair Bolsonaro, strategic advantages in the tight race against incumbent President Lula
Evening Report by The Conversation · 5:40 am
Granddaughters of NZ netball pioneers united a century later
A century after their grandmothers helped shape NZ netball, two women forge a special friendship and celebrate their Hall of Fame honour The post Granddaughters of NZ netball pioneers united a century later appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Suzanne McFadden · 5:38 am
Leaders’ debate shock: neither Luxon nor Hipkins entirely terrible
The last leaders' debate was the best and revived the idea that the major parties can maybe run things okay The post Leaders’ debate shock: neither Luxon nor Hipkins entirely terrible appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Steve Braunias · 5:30 am
What unrest on French streets could mean for next year’s presidential election
The recent turmoil in French cities will probably favour Marine Le Pen and the far-right.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 5:20 am
Will Reform UK’s racism scandal cost votes? Here’s what previous polling tells us
Reform UK might not be hit hard in polling.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 5:20 am
Overkill or killer blow? Newsroom’s takeaways from the last leaders’ debate
The good, bad and ugly from the last major party leaders’ debate of the 2026 election campaign, according to Newsroom’s team of Marc Daalder, Sam Sachdeva, Cass Mason and Jonathan Milne The post Overkill or killer blow? Newsroom’s takeaways from the last leaders’ debate appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Newsroom Staff · 5:00 am
Fact-checking Hipkins and Luxon in the final leaders’ debate of the 2026 election
Newsroom’s independent fact-check of the final leaders’ debate has identified the misleading and false statements made by Luxon and Hipkins The post Fact-checking Hipkins and Luxon in the final leaders’ debate of the 2026 election appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Marc Daalder, Andrew Bevin, and Fox Meyer · 5:00 am
Three strikes for prison, but one strike can throw you back on the streets
Comment: We’re not going to break cycles of addiction-fuelled crime using contracting out models The post Three strikes for prison, but one strike can throw you back on the streets appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Lianne Dalziel · 5:00 am
NZ First candidates reference ‘great replacement’ conspiracy theory
References to a white nationalist conspiracy theory from NZ First politicians are surprising, extremism expert Paul Spoonley says The post NZ First candidates reference ‘great replacement’ conspiracy theory appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Marc Daalder · 5:00 am
Daily crossword, Wednesday 21 October
Test your smarts with Newsroom's daily crossword. The post Daily crossword, Wednesday 21 October appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Newsroom Puzzles · 5:00 am
Mini crossword, Wednesday 21 October
A mini crossword you can solve in a few minutes. The post Mini crossword, Wednesday 21 October appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Newsroom Puzzles · 5:00 am
Newsroom daily quiz, Wednesday 21 October
New Zealand recently became one of only two countries to abstain from a global agreement on what at the UN General Assembly? The post Newsroom daily quiz, Wednesday 21 October appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Newsroom Puzzles · 5:00 am
What happens when climate change comes for our favourite sports?
If we can make major sporting events sustainable, then we can meaningfully address climate change The post What happens when climate change comes for our favourite sports? appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Rebekah White · 5:00 am
The grandma no one wanted to talk about
Tracing a family history that unravels with a drowning in Karori Stream The post The grandma no one wanted to talk about appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Ian Watt · 5:00 am
Telco veterans warn One and 2degrees network joint venture is ‘a slippery slope’
Advocates involved in Telecom’s reform are warning its consumer benefits could be undone if a merger is allowed The post Telco veterans warn One and 2degrees network joint venture is ‘a slippery slope’ appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Andrew Bevin · 5:00 am
The Kiwi AI tech saving our native bush from pests
From The Detail: New smart devices can track that last sneaky possum, saving hours of time. But the price tag is too high for most conservation groups. The post The Kiwi AI tech saving our native bush from pests appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Sharon Brettkelly · 5:00 am
Illegal fishing is thriving in African waters – a satellite system could help change that
Monitoring boats on African waters is the easy part; the harder part is what comes next.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:20 am
South Africa’s schools reflect an unequal society: what can teachers do about it?
South Africa wants teachers to change society. So why are they being trained to fit in?
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:20 am
Wainwright fire shows the importance of health-care system resilience to Canadian security
The response to a mass-casualty event does not play out in an otherwise empty health-care system. It competes with everyday care for staff, beds, transport and supplies.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:20 am
When powerful women are remembered as witches, we should challenge the historical motive
Historical women are remembered through reputations they never chose – we need not pass them on uncritically.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:20 am
Protecting children from harm isn’t enough — welfare systems must support healing through quality mental health care
Protection must also mean building the conditions young people need like stable relationships with adults who stay and real involvement in decisions about their care.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:20 am
National and Act missing from Wellington education panel as parties debate reforms
Green MP Lawrence Xu-Nan labelled the government’s absence ‘cowardice’ as candidates debated te Tiriti and curriculum reforms in absence of those responsible The post National and Act missing from Wellington education panel as parties debate reforms appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Hanna McCallum · 4:03 am
Political power without balance leads to the erosion of democracy, what Montesquieu can teach modern-day France
Montesquieu’s philosophy on the need for counter-powers for safeguarding against revolt in societies serves as a reminder for France amid a climate of enduring unrest.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 4:00 am
The hour of Gower – no silly questions
The final leaders' debate produced some actual debating. Mark Jennings was in the studio audience. The post The hour of Gower – no silly questions appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Mark Jennings · 3:44 am
When tax officials visit: why softer tax outreach can build trust in some places and erode it in others
Building the tax base in low-capacity settings is about making the state more visible and more credible.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 3:40 am
Palestinian citizens face a painful choice in Israel’s election: To vote or not
More than a third of Israel’s Palestinian citizens are expected to sit out the election.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 3:00 am
How buying weapons can harm a country’s economy
Investors are wary of potential conflict.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 3:00 am
Is it wrong to kill wild animals that attack humans? Sometimes conservation demands it
When wild animals kill people, the response can be controversial. But removing a dangerous individual can often protect people and other wildlife.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 3:00 am
State takeovers of struggling Texas school districts come at a high cost, with little evidence of success
The number of uncertified teachers rose, while enrolled student numbers dropped, following a state takeover of Houston. Data shows other uneven results across districts.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:40 am
A scuff on your bag, a dent in your mug – and suddenly it feels like time for a new one
While perfectionists hold themselves to high or even impossible standards, people who want perfect stuff hold what they buy and own to lofty standards.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:00 am
Are transgender sports bans really about protecting women? Survey data tells a different story
In a recent national survey, Americans with the most negative views of women were the biggest proponents of transgender sports bans.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:00 am
Are partisan politics even changing up our accents? They just might be, y’all
Vowels have become the latest players in partisan politics, a barometer of how beliefs and values fit within the old vs. new South.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:00 am
How governments worldwide are shaping what AI can say about politics
Some governments use legitimate AI concerns as a pretext to control political discussion, particularly chatbot responses about those in power.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:00 am
US inequality is getting worse in ways you might not expect
From tax policy to gas prices and tariffs, a mix of new factors is making inequality in the US more extreme.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 2:00 am
Subsidence claims: after drought, ground can shrink, swell or even collapse when it rains – causing damage to homes
Rain does not necessarily resolve drought-related issues. In some soils, rewetting can disrupt the foundations of buildings.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 1:40 am
The ‘activity trap’: fear of losing benefits is stopping some disabled people from exercising
New research reveals how fear of losing disability benefits can discourage people from exercising, even when being active could improve their health.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 1:40 am
New long-clawed British dinosaur is the first of its kind in Europe
It lived 120 million years ago.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 1:40 am
Who should have a say in which species are saved? The California condor offers lessons for a global biodiversity treaty
When conservation affects local people, the question of who pays and who has a voice in decisions can make or break species recovery.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 1:40 am
I’m a Philly forensic psychologist who has conducted dozens of psychopathic evaluations – here’s why an evaluation of R.C. Horsch in the ‘80s didn’t identify him as a possible psychopath
Philadelphia police and FBI are conducting a massive investigation into the home where the late R.C. Horsch and his son lived, along with several women who’ve gone missing.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 1:40 am
How Denmark became the sperm donation capital of the world
How Danish sperm became central to the global donor industry.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 12:00 am
The driveway divide: why parking for electric vehicles is such a big barrier
Access to a driveway boosts EV ownership by 70%, but mainly for households already planning to buy.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 12:00 am
‘Terror of kings’: why the 1066 appearance of Halley’s comet terrified the medieval world
The sudden appearance of such a bright comet must have made a deep impression on those who witnessed it.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 12:00 am
Experienced teachers are quitting or reducing their hours – they’re struggling to cope
Leaving is treated as a single event, when for many teachers it is closer to a slow unravelling.
Evening Report by The Conversation · 12:00 am
Is adding cottage cheese to everything from brownies to flatbreads really the best way to ‘proteinmaxx’ – and do you even need to?
In the first episode of the new season of Strange Health, we examine the health benefits of cottage cheese.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Leaders’ debate: Season 2 of the Chris vs Chris show ends with a bang
Christopher Luxon and Chris Hipkins spar forcefully in a debate that shows sharp differences on education, climate change and the cost of living. The post Leaders’ debate: Season 2 of the Chris vs Chris show ends with a bang appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Tim Murphy · Yesterday
What does a Starshield slowdown really mean for Ukraine’s war with Russia?
The move degrades one of the communications systems deeply embedded in how Ukraine fights.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Australian democracy is usually peaceful. But there’s a homegrown history with political violence that bears on the future
Australian history has been relatively free of political violence. But there have nonetheless been some shocking incidents from which we should learn.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Palestine Forum calls for NZ action as 500,000 Palestinians in Gaza face winter food aid cuts
Asia Pacific Report The New Zealand government must turn concern for besieged Palestinians into urgent, practical action, says a Palestinian advocacy group. The Palestine Forum of New Zealand has called on the government to take “immediate diplomatic and financial action” following the UN World Food Programme’s announcement that 500,000 Palestinians in Gaza will lose their
Evening Report by Asia Pacific Report · Yesterday
ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for October 20, 2026
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on October 20, 2026.
Evening Report by Evening Report · Yesterday
Haines loses leg; alleged attacker posted about environment and Gaza
The independent MP remains in a critical condition after the incident on Monday afternoon. The alleged attacker has been identified as 43-year-old Brendan Nugent.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
NZ’s next government will inherit a Treaty debate that is far from resolved
How much should Māori voices count in public life? And when does decisionmaking belong outside government and within Māori institutions?
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Politics with Michelle Grattan: Ed Husic urges brakes on data centres ‘swamping’ Australia
The former industry minister said Australia is ‘going too fast’ and ‘been swamped by US tech’ building data centres here to dodge growing US community opposition.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
AI reveals how a warming climate will intensify NZ’s most extreme downpours
By running hundreds of climate simulations much faster than conventional models, AI can deliver better regional projections of what communities need to prepare for.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Attacks on politicians start with whispered abuse and end in violence
When attacks happen in the US, we say they couldn’t happen here. Same with Canada, and Japan, and the UK. Now, an Australian MP has been critically injured in a hate attack. A serious attack will happen here, if we don’t act. The post Attacks on politicians start with whispered abuse and end in violence appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Jonathan Milne · Yesterday
Holding power accountable – a Pacific journalist’s journey through assaults and censorship
Exposing autocracy from military-ruled Fiji to democratic Samoa, journalist Shalveen Chand has faced cell blocks, state censorship and physical assaults for holding Pacific powers accountable. Now joining the Cook Islands News as senior journalist, Chand brings a relentless commitment to press freedom, warning that democracy collapses when watchdogs are silenced. COMMENTARY: By Shalveen Chand I
Evening Report by Asia Pacific Report · Yesterday
Honey bee hives have ‘living immune systems’ which defend against disease
Healthy honey bee colonies are remarkably good at keeping harmful microbes under control. A new study shows how they do it.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Many vapes and e-cigarettes are now banned in Pennsylvania – here’s what Philly consumers and businesses need to know
Vape products from only six manufacturers can now be sold in Pennsylvania.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Feral – and threatened? Endangered camels, banteng and hog deer have found an unexpected refuge in Australia
Wild dromedary herds no longer roam the Sahara, while wild banteng are vanishingly rare in Southeast Asia. Should we protect their feral populations in Australia?
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Many Indigenous people now study and teach at Australian universities – but they are still excluded
Indigenous knowledges are still seen by many as peripheral to the dominant Western knowledge system.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Federal spending on climate change before 2024 election boosted incumbents of both parties
Incumbents can still reap electoral rewards when federal money reaches their districts, even if they opposed the bill that provided it.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Would subsidising weight loss drugs make health care fairer?
Those carrying the greatest burden of obesity and its complications may be among the least able to afford one of the most effective treatments now available.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Could the ban on card surcharges lead to a rise in tax evasion?
The new ban on card surcharges could have unintended consequences.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
New AI shopping agents promise better bargains. But who pays the price?
As AI agents begin shopping on our behalf, there’s a real risk cheaper products could put more pressure on vulnerable workers in global supply chains.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
From Ukraine to the Middle East: How drones and AI are rewriting the rules of modern warfare
While technology may set the boundaries of warfare, human choices ultimately determine how effective the technology is.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Sex toys aren’t just for fun. They can be adaptive tools for disabled and chronically ill people
Sex toys can help people whose sex lives have been changed by illness, disease or disability, move past traditional sex scripts.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Where does all the hardware go? The hidden environmental footprint of AI data centres
Canada’s new Responsible Data Centre Development Principles fail to address computer hardware alongside water and electricity usage.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Shortening Canadian teacher education risks devaluing the profession of teaching
Little evidence exists to support the argument that reducing the length of teacher education will increase teacher recruitment.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Tackling Lake Erie’s algal blooms requires targeted conservation strategies
Many of the excess nutrients causing algal blooms in Lake Erie come from nearby farms, and the challenge is keeping them out of waterways.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Kipper cream or fish in custard? A century of magazine recipes reveals how Britain’s seafood tastes have narrowed
Britain’s limited appetite for fish is often assumed to be a long-standing cultural norm. Recipes published in a Good Housekeeping suggest otherwise.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
The 17th-century British scientists who investigated hauntings
The Royal Society was Britain’s principal scientific institution and some of its fellows were dabbling in the investigation of spirits.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Digital natives are buying electric cars as if they were smartphones
Car buyers increasingly see vehicles as hardware platforms to host digital functions.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Phoebe Giannisi’s eco-poetry challenges the idea that humans are separate from nature
What cicadas, shepherds and an ancient Greek monster reveal about our place in nature.
Evening Report by The Conversation · Yesterday
Losing sight of the lucky country – why we need a crisis to reform again
Comment: Like NZ, Australia has its back to the wall with another energy shock from the Middle East, the highest trade barriers in generations and its biggest customer now also its greatest strategic worry The post Losing sight of the lucky country – why we need a crisis to reform again appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Dr Oliver Hartwich · Yesterday
The India FTA is here – are NZ businesses looking in the wrong places?
Free trade with India will be about far more than wood and wool, as digital services company Valocity is proving The post The India FTA is here – are NZ businesses looking in the wrong places? appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Sunil Kaushal · Yesterday
Inside The Parents’ Alliance, the new lobby group pushing govt school reforms
Co-founder of the Taxpayers’ Union and former CEO of the Free Speech Union are among those behind the new parent-centred lobby group insisting it is non-partisan The post Inside The Parents’ Alliance, the new lobby group pushing govt school reforms appeared first on Newsroom.
Newsroom by Hanna McCallum · Yesterday

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