Distilled and Balanced
NZNE Newsletter #13 for Tuesday, February 14th, 2023
Auckland’s emergency response reaction
A state of emergency was declared in Auckland. 4 people died due to flooding and slips. Many think an emergency should have been declared earlier, but Wayne Brown says he followed procedure. Media was almost unanimously critical of Brown, yet mostly silent on the central government’s botching of the school closures. Much of the journalism was about partisan support, second guessing from their spectator chairs and trying to create drama.
4 min read
The revolving door of political lobbying
Private lobbyists who’ve worked closely with Cabinet use their special connections and inside knowledge for clients. In NZ there are no laws stopping people from moving back and forth between promoting private interests and acting for the public. This lets lobbyists use confidential public information for private interests, undermining public trust and democracy.
4 min read
Insults–better to give than receive
Some journalists are seemingly blind to the role their insults and divisive views play in angering others. Are emotions playing too much of a role in journalism? How about some consideration of the other side’s perspective?
4 min read
Treaty land issues
Determining whether or how much Māori were shorted is very much a hole without a bottom. There’s always room to argue about a document like the Treaty. The “right” answer can change with the times and the person deciding. Ultimately, the Government decides how the Treaty should be applied, so voters should know the parties’ positions and vote accordingly.
4 min read
Is Hipkins’ policy bonfire more smoke than fire?
Hipkins has scrapped two policies. The rest are only postponed. Hipkins said his changes are the most significant he will be making. He’s kept many publicly-opposed programs like co-governance and Three Waters. Increasing the minimum wage helps those on very low incomes, but promotes the wage spiral and inflation.
4 min read
Cindy vs Chippy
Why is calling Ardern “Cindy” supposedly demeaning, but calling Hipkins “Chippy”, okay? Why is criticism of media favourites who are from protected categories, for instance women, labelled sexist, racist, etc, but sexist and racist labels like “male, pale, and stale” are okay? Could it be reflective of the media’s own prejudices?
4 min read
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