Government investment in water infrastructure looks promising
I'm genuinely impressed that the proposal looks to be following a reasonable consultation and engagement process! I'm often critical of governments top down approach but this looks remarkably good.
Submission on Auckland Council Emergency Budget
This is my submission on the Auckland Council Emergency Budget.
The proposed budget is really disappointing. It lacks vision, is extremely short sighted and consultation has been poor.
What Auckland Council's proposed Emergency Budget means for East Auckland
I’m deeply concerned about the cuts to safety programmes, environmental management and public transport which will all cost more than just money. The missing information on the Eastern Busway, Community Safety Fund and Ormiston Town Centre make it difficult to fully understand the impact.
Auckland Council's proposed emergency budget is drastic
With everything that has been happening, we've become accustomed to drastic action in the face of a crisis. But even still, the proposed Auckland Council emergency budget is still a shock.
Eastern Busway cannot come soon enough
In a piece in the NZ Herald, Christopher Luxon and Simeon Brown have both called for the Eastern Busway to be built faster. It's great to see the support for this critical transport infrastructure project for East Auckland.
Taiwan's membership in the WHO shouldn't be a political decision
I don’t often agree with Winston Peter’s but on Taiwan joining the World Health Organisation (WHO) I agree. In the same way that China doesn't get to decide what Taiwan does, they don't get to decide what New Zealand does either.
Opportunity for an informed choice on cannabis reform
This year, NZ voters will be asked for their vote on two referendums, including one on the legalisation of cannabis.
The government has provided a summary of proposed regulations so we can make an informed decision
Howick Local Board goes online to approve transport investment
The Howick Local Board for April was held online but not open to the public. I normally attend these and it was a shame to not be able to attend this, but I understand that changes are necessary in these challenging times.
COVID19 calls for new approach to Council budget and rates
COVID19 has required an unprecedented response at all levels of government and local council is not immune. As the health and economic impacts of the pandemic are beginning be understood, it's clear that we need to rethink our short term plans.
Auckland Airport shortchanges Auckland ratepayers
Thanks to the poor actions of Auckland Airport, Auckland Council "lost an immediate $18 million in the value of its shareholding last week, and had missed a $70m gain".
Staying safe, saying home
As we pass the two week mark of the COVID19 lockdown, I thought I’d give a quick update on what I’ve been up to. The short version - working.
Don't be like David, stay home.
I've said it before, David Clark is one of the weakest ministers in this cabinet (which is saying a lot considering who some of his colleagues are).
Local Irra Lee gets hands-on experience communicating the work of Parliament
Local Irra Lee has spent a few months working in Parliament, gaining some really good insights into how it really works.
Government fails to deliver on infrastructure
For generations NZ has under invested in infrastructure and, while today's announcement is welcome, it's not enough to address the gaps, let alone take us forward.
Absurd - public transport prices increase despite climate emergency
Putting up prices during a climate emergency is absurd. I appreciate that some of the restrictions come from parliament, with farebox recovery mandated but when will our leaders get serious about standing up for our city, our environment and our future?
We're paying at the pump for what?
I was dismayed (but not surprised) to see that Auckland Transport has yet again under delivered, despite record taxes on residents
Why is sunscreen so expensive in NZ?
We all know to slip slop and slap, but sunscreen is expensive especially when compared to Australia.
Costly review our only hope for better democracy?
Auckland Council governance is a shambles, if we have to pay to properly understand it then let's get it done. But I worry that this will just generate an expensive, glossy report that achieves nothing.
Campaign donation and expenses return filed
Last Friday was the deadline for all candidates to complete their donations and expenses return. Every election (local and central) requires candidates to declare how they raised their funds and where it was spent
Howick Santa Parade a huge success!
Another fantastic Howick Santa Parade! Third biggest in Australasia and this year was better than ever!