For years, New Zealanders were told we were a model nation – clean, fair and free of corruption.
But many are now waking up to a different reality. Corruption here may not come with suitcases of cash. Still, it’s no less real when certain iwi organisations – flush with public money – use their so-called ‘consultation rights’ to demand levies on everything from building permits to coastal walks and recreational fishing.
My own ideal government does not believe the state should run the economy.
Foodstuffs didn’t wake up yesterday morning and discover that it had become one of New Zealand’s two major supermarket operators.
An individual piece of Māori roadside art may be perfectly attractive, interesting, or even impressive.
Te Pāti Māori has exposed a weakness in the MMP system by promoting a voting pattern that could lead to an overhang in any newly elected government.
In an era where the public demands rigorous accountability and tangible returns on political spending, a dramatic performance is simply not enough.
Take our Daily Opinion Poll and see how your views compare to other readers and then share the poll on social media. By sharing the poll you will help even more readers to discover The Good Oil.
Aotearoa was never the traditionally accepted name and Māori were happy with the name New Zealand – so much so, they made up te reo words to match it.
