We have a new prime minister. Helen Clark has conceeded defeat (not a dry eye in the house – why are concession speeches often a politician’s best ?) and John Key is the new PM.

Provisional result: National 59 seats, Labour 43, Green 8, Maori 5, ACT 5, Others 2. We are likely to have a National-ACT coalition.

2.3 million votes cast which I think is a record.

Our electorate, Rimutaka, stayed Labour.

As Kiwis brace themselves to do their democratic duty this weekend (polling day is Saturday), it’s worth reflecting on two big issues that haven’t been discussed during the campaign. In other words the dogs that haven’t barked. Read more

As voting day draws close, attention focuses on our leaders debating the vital issues of the day. In America this has seen millions of people tuning in to watch the presidential candidates arguing back and forth the challenges that await the next leader of the free world. Wars overseas, the economic crash, climate change, all finely argued with points made passionately and with intellectual rigour. Well, maybe not…….. Read more

Posted by MT from his Soapbox

Another week and the headlines have been dominated by the financial woes of a small, remote storm-swept island….yep NZ and Iceland have more in common than most Kiwis would like to acknowledge. It’s a little known fact that NZ actually led the world into recession at the end of June (GDP has already fallen 0.5% in the first half of this year). Well we do like to be first.

The reason why is painfully simple; the average Kiwi is spending a dollar and twelve cents for every dollar they have earned. As students of the Micawber principle will know, this inevitably leads to an unhappy ending. Read more

OK, I give in. After a close interest in my blog it’s time to let him indoors to have a spot where he can do his thing.  It’s only fair, we share pretty much everything else so why not this blog.

He’s been a real supporter to me since I started this blog, checking stats, offering feedback and making suggestions.  But no more.  He can have a slot to get on his own soapbox and tell you all the things he’d wish I’d tell you.  I’m sure you’ll enjoy this excursion and it will stop him nagging me all the time! Read more