Homeless in New Plymouth (credit: Robin Martin) For decades now, we have talked about missing the good old days. We talked about when everyone could afford a home, nearly all children were in school and you could get lolly mixes from the dairy for less than $1. What we don't talk about about is how … Continue reading The status quo suits the Government
New Zealand Coalition Government: Polling Woes and Voter Sentiment
The Coalition Government leaders. 20 months in, the polls are not promising. With a bit more than a year before Parliament goes into election mode for 2026, a new poll is out for the Government. And it is not good news. Rare it is though for a Government in New Zealand to be so unpopular … Continue reading New Zealand Coalition Government: Polling Woes and Voter Sentiment
Were the “Good Old Days” really that, New Zealand?
"I miss the 'good old days' when...." One of the most common gripes heard in general conversation is about how people miss the "good old days". A common, possibly cliche sounding phrase given how much it is trotted out, the "good old days" most commonly seem to revolve around a few basic, yet intertwined themes … Continue reading Were the “Good Old Days” really that, New Zealand?
Assessing the 2025 local government election campaigns
In Auckland, after an extremely turbulent start highlighted by the shambolic response to the Anniversary Day floods in January 2023, Mayor Wayne Brown looks like being re-elected. Following the damaging Cyclone Gabrielle, which followed a month after the Anniversary Floods, the pressure on Mr Brown, his Deputy Desley Simpson and the Auckland Council was understandably … Continue reading Assessing the 2025 local government election campaigns
Regulatory Standards Bill a dangerous attempt to straight jacket policy making
The Regulatory Standards Bill (Legislation, 08/07/25) The Select Committee stage of one of New Zealand's most contentious Bills of Parliament began on Monday. As the hearing of public submissions progresses I look at why this is not a good Bill of Parliament to pass. The Regulatory Standards Bill, which is being championed by A.C.T. leader … Continue reading Regulatory Standards Bill a dangerous attempt to straight jacket policy making
Leftist Kiwi Writes 