Decline in services a danger to N.Z. rural communities

A N.Z. Post store in Auckland. (Google Maps) This is a bit of a grumble about large businesses closing and the socio-economic devastation they leave behind, the trends and some local observations. It stems from the announcement by New Zealand Post that 140+ stores are closing (more on that later), and the apparent lack of … Continue reading Decline in services a danger to N.Z. rural communities

Concerning level of anti-Indian hatred in N.Z. social media

An image of N.Z. First Deputy Leader Shane Jones, who has criticised Indian migration. In December 2025, the Sikh community in Auckland staged a march, following escalating criticism and commentary bordering on hate speech. Part way through the march, a Brian Tamaki affiliated group intercepted them and disrupted the protest. The protest, which coming from … Continue reading Concerning level of anti-Indian hatred in N.Z. social media

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

Why New Zealand should become a Republic

Then Prime Minister Helen Clark and United Leader Peter Dunne inspecting our constitutional elements (Ashley W. Smith, 2004, Turnbull Library) Former Minister, the late Jim Bolger believed that New Zealand should become a Republic. To that end he declined a Knighthood that would have given him the title Sir James Bolger. Former Prime Minister Helen … Continue reading Why New Zealand should become a Republic