Everybody’s favourite authoritarian libertarian returns with a blistering new column As a powerful media figure and celebrated columnist, I know something about making a persuasive argument. My opinions inspire terror in my opponents, so naturally they take every opportunity they can to shut me down. That’s why you won’t find any of my columns in…
Key: Hi John. Banks: Hi John. Key: By the way, John, I wanted to say you’re looking good. Fitter and trimmer. Banks: You too, John. You’re looking very good to me. Key: The glasses suit you too, John. They make you look more intellectual and sophisticated. Banks: Why thank you, John. Key: No problem, John.…
Consumer confidence is down, manufacturing slumped in October, Europe is teetering on the edge of economic meltdown, unemployment is up, the government is running a massive deficit, we’ve had a credit downgrade, economic growth is stagnant, the gap between rich and poor continues to widen, the cost of living is rising for most people, and…
The National Party yesterday announced a new irrigation scheme to be funded from the Future Investment Fund. National has pledged to establish the Future Investment Fund to manage the proceeds from the sale of state assets, and has committed to use that fund for future infrastructure investment. Prime Minister John Key claims that the fund…
Although the ACT Party is floundering in the polls, the party today launched a bold new transport policy. ACT Leader Dr Don Brash said he was confident that the public of New Zealand would embrace the policy once they understood its detail. “We look forward to working with a National-led government to introduce this initiative,”…
The latest polls have been kind to National, but it is way too early to call the election. People are still wowed by the Key phenomenon. He’s regarded as an all-round good guy, and he has managed to turn the election into a leaders popularity contest rather than a battle of ideas. But everyone has…
Sometimes I think the legal profession gets a rough ride. People love to hate lawyers, even though many of us work hard and are decent people. Most firms do some pro bono work, and lawyers can be found on the boards of most charities or good causes. If Jesus was alive today I am utterly…
Below is the transcript of a short speech given to business leaders yesterday by Finance Minister Bill English Good morning. I want to talk to you today about National’s plans to grow the economy. We are in an election year and our opponents have accused National of not having a plan. But National has a…
The year’s Melbourne Cup field looks strong, and we should be in for a thrilling race. The winner of the previous Cup race, Smile and Wave, is still odds on favourite, although Drunken Sailor has been getting a lot of punter attention in the last few hours. Another horse, Liar Liar Pants on Fire, is…
The leaders of National and Labour will go head to head in a televised debate tonight. As a totally independent commentator, I will watch the debate with some interest. Here is my prediction on how the debate will go. Phil Goff will be incredibly strong and will win the debate hands-down. He will be firm,…
Imperator Fish 
You must be logged in to post a comment.