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)
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
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
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
Worsening global politics – and their players – do nothing for N.Z.
Around the world - for any number of reasons - tensions are rising. Bigger nations are becoming more and more belligerent. Medium size nations are increasing defence spending and philosophically digging in. For New Zealand, a nation that grew strong on the rules based order, this is a worrying sign. Like it or not, New … Continue reading Worsening global politics – and their players – do nothing for N.Z.
Leftist Kiwi Writes 