Leftist Kiwi Writes Construction, Economy, New Zealand Affairs

Government ignores lessons of Christchurch in weakening seismic compliance

Repertory Theatre 05 September 2010, a day after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake (R. Glennie) When New Zealand went to bed on 03 September 2010, probably no one had given the slightest thought to a seismic odyssey beginning in Canterbury in the small hours of the following morning. Fewer still imagined the horror it would unleash … Continue reading Government ignores lessons of Christchurch in weakening seismic compliance

Leftist Kiwi Writes Defence, Foreign Affairs, New Zealand Affairs, World Affairs

New Zealand needs an independent foreign policy

Following the refusal by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters to acknowledge the State of Palestine, many people have taken to social media bemoaning the absence of an "independent foreign policy". I thought I would take the opportunity to outline why I think we need one and how it could look. Trump? Xi? Or a … Continue reading New Zealand needs an independent foreign policy

Leftist Kiwi Writes Air quality, Economy, Environment, Fresh water, New Zealand Affairs, Resource Management Law, Tourism, Waste

The case for protecting New Zealand’s environment

Twizel landfill - an example of waste infrastructure in rural N.Z. (R. Glennie) You have probably seen the adverts promoting 100% Pure New Zealand. Nice glossy adverts with somewhere like Milford Sound on a clear day with Mitre Peak reflecting nicely in the water. They look great and are certainly effective at drawing people in. … Continue reading The case for protecting New Zealand’s environment

Leftist Kiwi Writes New Zealand Affairs, Parliament, Politics, United Kingdom, United States

Charlie Kirk and why New Zealand should not import U.S./U.K. culture wars

A tweet by A.C.T. Leader David Seymour ignores the fact that political rhetoric stokes tensions. The murder of U.S. far right political advocate Charlie Kirk has seen a divisive, contentious debate erupt around around his conduct. Halfway around the world, politicians in New Zealand are advocating remembering Mr Kirk, despite him having nothing to do … Continue reading Charlie Kirk and why New Zealand should not import U.S./U.K. culture wars