Reflections On The Passing Of Paul Holmes

As we all remember the veteran broadcaster and his legacy, one thing remains foremost in my mind. As the nation mourns and as newspapers crowd their pages with tributes, as radio show hosts share their memories of the great man, and as bloggers rush to publish their “RIP Holmes” posts lest they be left behind in the…

Another Review Of Bain’s Compensation Bid

The Government today announced a fresh review of David Bain’s bid for compensation. Justice Minister Judith Collins today announced the establishment of a working group to review Bain’s case.On the same day, however, it was revealed that David Bain’s legal team has filed a claim in the High Court seeking a judicial review of the Justice Minister’s actions…

A Day In The Life Of Steven Joyce

7:13 amThe days when I have to travel to Wellington are always the longest ones. I have to get up well before dawn and get myself to the airport, while my family are still asleep in their beds. The taxi driver I usually use knows my routine, and we often don’t even exchange a word.…

The Wrong Legacy

The news media have been having a busy time lately writing obituaries in anticipation of Sir Paul Holmes’ demise.   When teams of journalists are not producing Holmes-deathwatch copy, they have their eyes on that big German guy with all the internet businesses and legal troubles. If Kim Dotcom says or tweets anything, you can bet it…

Housing Crisis Forces Young Couples Out Of Inner City

More evidence has emerged about the difficulties facing people trying to enter the property market for the first time. An international  housing affordability survey has found that Auckland real estate is severely unaffordable by international standards.Anecdotal evidence continues to mount, with many real estate agents recounting hard-luck stories about young couples trying to enter into…

Gareth Morgan Proposes Solution To Grave Problem

Millionaire philanthropist Gareth Morgan has launched a new environmental campaign, and he has a new target in his sights. Earlier this week the Wellington economist sparked controversy when he called for the eradication of all household cats, claiming that they were sadists responsible for the destruction of much of our native wildlife. Morgan has also…

John Key’s Reshuffle Analysed

Prime Minister John Key today announced a reshuffle of his Cabinet, as well as a number of changes in the organisation of some government ministries. The changes will come into effect on 31 January.The biggest winner is Dr Nick Smith. He returns to Cabinet after his fall from grace last year, and is appointed as…

Right Thinking: Fight The Facts

Hard-hitting conservative columnist Dr Frank Shizenhausen returns after a long break People have been jumping all over Garth McVicar, head of the Sensible Sentencing Trust, after he claimed in a select committee submission that gay marriage would lead to more crime. It’s shocking the way a good man like McVicar can’t even make an argument entirely devoid of evidence,…

Almost There

I’m over half-way towards my target of eating four bits of toast for breakfast today. I’ve been training hard, and with a little more effort I should be able to finish the job.I began my training regime about three months ago, and I’m pleased with my progress so far. My ultimate breakfast goal is to…