Leftist Kiwi Writes Foreign Affairs, N.Z. Labour Party, New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Political Parties, Politics, The Opportunity Party

The Labour M.P., who could give Winston Peters a foreign policy challenge

Labour M.P. and potential Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vanushi Walters (Herald/Mark Mitchell) A couple of weeks ago, Labour announced it was having an overhaul of its front line spokespeople. As a non-Labour voter wondering what Hipkins is doing to rejuvenate his front bench, the reshuffle was expected. Many of the announcements were fairly expected, but … Continue reading The Labour M.P., who could give Winston Peters a foreign policy challenge

Leftist Kiwi Writes New Zealand Affairs, New Zealand First, Political Parties

New Zealand First putting New Zealand last

New Zealand First caucus (N.Z. First). The World Health Organization is one of a number of global organizations that fall under the United Nations umbrella, which New Zealand is a member of. New Zealand lives as a nation in a connected world where we have to work with neighbouring countries and share data about medical … Continue reading New Zealand First putting New Zealand last

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