Leftist Kiwi Writes A.C.T., Government, Green Party, N.Z. Labour Party, N.Z. National Party, New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Political Parties, Te Pati Maori, The Opportunity Party

Neoliberal austerity, Labour timidity or something else in N.Z.’s 2026 election?

There are basically 6 months left in the 54th Parliament of New Zealand. In about mid-September, it will dissolve for the campaign period. The retiring M.P.'s will give their valedictory statements to Parliament. When that happens and Parliament dissolves, the writ will be done for the election and the campaign phase will begin in earnest. … Continue reading Neoliberal austerity, Labour timidity or something else in N.Z.’s 2026 election?

Leftist Kiwi Writes N.Z. Labour Party, N.Z. National Party, New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Politics, Social Development, Social Policy, Welfare

New Zealand superannuation’s $625 billion mistake (and other consequences)

When National Party leader Robert Muldoon was elected Prime Minister in 1975, he made a decision (not Think Big - more on that another time) that should bother every economist in New Zealand to this day. He abolished the compulsory contributory New Zealand Superannuation scheme. 50 years later, the decision to abolish that scheme is … Continue reading New Zealand superannuation’s $625 billion mistake (and other consequences)

Leftist Kiwi Writes New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Politics, Society, Uncategorised

Should New Zealand Ban Private Fireworks? Exploring the Impact

Is a Members Bill in Parliament about to ban fireworks? (Source: AI) New Zealand First is moving to ban private use of fireworks. As a kid I, my mates, parents and relatives had great fun letting a few off at big family events - New Years, Guy Fawkes and the occasional birthday. Lighting sparklers to … Continue reading Should New Zealand Ban Private Fireworks? Exploring the Impact

Leftist Kiwi Writes Government, New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Politics

Easing the political rhetoric in Aotearoa New Zealand

Earlier this week the home Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters was attacked by vandals. A crowbar was used to smash a window which showered broken glass into the house, onto the family dog and cut his partner. THERE IS NO PLACE IN NEW ZEALAND FOR POLITICAL VIOLENCE OF ANY KIND. If I sound angry, … Continue reading Easing the political rhetoric in Aotearoa New Zealand

Leftist Kiwi Writes N.Z. Labour Party, N.Z. National Party, New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Parliament, Political Parties, Politics

Labour doing nothing to improve their election prospects

Labour leader Chris Hipkins (Credit: Office of Governor General 25/01/23) New Zealand is coming to the half way point of this political term. The Deputy Prime Ministership of David Seymour starts in a few weeks. And the Leader of the Labour Party has just made one of the most delusional statements I have seen in … Continue reading Labour doing nothing to improve their election prospects