Dunedin Hospital's new outpatients building opens later in 2026. (Gerard O'Brien ODT) For years, just as Britons have watched their National Health System decline, I have watched the New Zealand health system slowly buckling. In both the U.K. and New Zealand there seem to similar causes. But the primary cause in New Zealand: decades of … Continue reading Disinvesting in New Zealand healthcare
Our lack of an African understanding: Part 2
See Part 1 here.New Zealand, like the rest of the world has much it can contribute to the development of Africa as a continent. Like the world there is also much we can learn from it. And in doing so, we help ourselves and the world New Zealand politicians say that they want to see. … Continue reading Our lack of an African understanding: Part 2
Our lack of an African understanding: Part 1
There is no doubt that much has been said, written, filmed, photographed or otherwise recorded about Africa. It is a continent of mystery, of sorrow, of immense potential and no small amount of misunderstanding. Especially misunderstanding. It’s billion or so people are amongst the poorest on the face of the planet. Its resources are amongst … Continue reading Our lack of an African understanding: Part 1
Reforming Ministry of Social Development
Ministry of Social Development is in bad need of a complete overhaul (Christel Yardley/Waikato Times) Ministry of Social Development (or as I sometimes call it, Ministry of Social Destruction) is responsible for the implementation of social services and advising the Government on social policy. As it has evolved so have the attitudes of those relying … Continue reading Reforming Ministry of Social Development
A new leader for National Party?
If Chris Luxon is rolled, is Chris Bishop (above), the next Prime Minister? (Source: National Party) Last week Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made the absurd off-the-cuff announcement that he would support a referendum on the M.M.P. electoral system that New Zealand uses. After days of strong push-back, National are having an urgent meeting today to … Continue reading A new leader for National Party?