Languages dont benefit from being kept on life-support. Language is a tool, that has the purpose of translating thoughts to words and writing. I dont agree with your sentiment that most New Zealanders want to hear te reo spoken more often, I think this is more a flight of fancy than , perhaps, a reflection of the 1 state of affairs.What makes te reo better than any of the other archaic languages that are falling into disuse?In my opinion, from what I have seen around the world, encouraging multilingualism only serves to divide cultures and communities within the countries that have attempted this.To really unite New Zealand, we need one common language, and we need to focus on teaching people how to read and write this language to a better standard than we are seeing at the moment.
And no mention of the dire consequences when diametrically opposed traditions and beliefs are thrown together. As is evident globally, and contrary to the naïve thinking of the liberal left, refugees, asylum seeks, or immigrants, do not integrate into the host countries traditions and beliefs, but maintain strong attachments to their own.This becomes a problem when people hold strong religious ideals that are incompatible to the host nation, and, instead of assimilating into the local population, begin to distance themselves as a different culture and tradition, unprepared to embrace the host.Why do we want these people who hold their own traditions above our own? What disgraceful behaviour from people who claim to love New Zealand!
The problem is that those promoting te reo just dont get how offensive it is to thrust a language upon someone in the forceful manner in which it is being done.If we can take any lessons from history, we should have learned that any culture that is force-fed will soon become history itself. If people choose to learn a language voluntarily, then it can be classified as useful, otherwise it becomes despised and worthless, which is exactly what is happening to te reo at the moment,Those who would promote it are the harbingers of its demise.Non-Maori are not interested in the history of a language steeped in paganism, and which has no relevance to modern culture or technological advancement.
America is not a democracy, it is a Constitutional Federal Republic (a federation of states with a Representative Democracy)republic. If it was a democracy, Hillary would have been President.
So how would Verity describe feminism?Is it trying to emulate the excesses and bad behaviour of the male gender? is it trying to stay clear of the excesses and bad behaviour attributed to the male gender, is it trying to supress and belittle the male gender, is it trying to find a clearer line of distinction between male and female, or is it trying to blur the lines of distinction?
Personally, I am offended by your hateful attitude. You cannot go around name throwing and spreading unfounded lies, this is biased hate-speech coming from you. You seem to believe your own misinformation hype, which is rather tragic.
Why? NZ doesnt have any greater moral obligation than any other country, besides, when the poverty level in NZ is on the increase, how can such a gesture be justified? Simple humanitarian grounds are not enough, when our own people are sleeping rough.
The problem with learning Te reo, as opposed to French, or German, is that the language embraces a culture, and cannot be separated from the Maori traditions and oral history.This means that, unless a person embraces the culture and traditions of Maori, it is difficult to embrace the language in its entirety, so much of it is relevant only to Maori values.My problem is that their pagan beliefs and traditions are so alien and unpalatable to my own beliefs and traditions that their is no way that I could embrace such a language, and nobody should be in a position where they feel that they must compromise their own values in order to learn another language.
Umm, I think youll find that it is the PC brigade, as you call it, that are more inclined to use foul language, because it is part and parcel of their everything is acceptable mantra.Boundaries have been removed by the liberal PC brigade, and that includes the use of foul language.
I have yet to be shown an example of inequality.I have always known males and females to be paid the similarly for doing the same jobs.The only inequality I have witnessed is the willingness on the part of many corporations to favour the promotion of females over males in recent years, irrespective of job performance.Perhaps the inequality issue is more to do with percentage representation in certain fields, which is more indicative of the difference between males and females than many of the neo-liberals feel comfortable with.
NZ had to strike a deal with China to build locomotives (and wagons), to meet our end of the free-trade agreement. Nothing to do with emissions, or cost savings for KiwiRail.KiwiRail is being used as a political pawn in a much bigger game, to ensure and enhance our reputation with our largest trading partner.
The main point is that the decision to ban Brash from speaking was based on the opinion of one person. Albeit the reasoning behind that opinion, remains her subjective opinion, and, especially in her position, and taking into account the nature of the institution she represents, she has displayed an arrogance of the highest order.The day NZ stopped allowing freedom of expression and speech, based on the opinions of a handful of liberal-minded individuals, is the day that NZ lost all credibility as an objective and forward-thinking country. Shame on Massey university, you are an embarrassment to us all.
In your opinion only. For the majority of us, it is a sad day when a country is more concerned about illegal immigrants than their own people. There is no shame in controlling who enters your country, it would be foolish to welcome everyone with an open arm policy.
Susan is showing a distinct lack of understanding in how impeachment proceedings work, and a lack of discernment and judgement in not being able to distinguish between due process and a witch hunt.Its this kind of imbalance opinion that leads the general uninformed populace to view the Democrats as the victims and the Republicans as the villains, when the reality is quite different.
America is not a democracy, is a Constitutional Federal Republic (a federation of states with a Representative Democracy)Please people, wise up, how can you comment on American politics when you dont even know what type of constitution is in play?
Its sad that NZ doesnt take road safety seriously, being more concerned about sport and American politics. I wonder what the tipping point is, how many accidents and deaths need to occur, before the government starts taking driving seriously?
The tool of choice in controlling the masses has always been ignorance, and finding a supposed institute of learning at the forefront of this movement is shocking. Enlightenment leads to freedom, darkness and censorship lead to bondage.
The issue is not with medicinal cannabis, its with the people who think this means a free-for-all legalised recreational cannabis. They just cant see the dividing line.
What was the point of Carolyn Robinson mentioning the Prime Ministers baby to Katy Perry?Im sure that Jacinda having a baby is her own business, and not a fun fact that is appropriate to an interview with a pop singer! Talk about small-mindedness in NZ
If we could say, that as a civilised country, we have abolished violent, cruel, and destructive criminal behaviour, then, yes, I would agree with the sentiments of the Pope, and the author, but, until that is the case, I dont believe there is sufficient validation to abolish the death penalty. Im not suggesting the use of the death penalty in anything other than the most extreme cases of sociopathic behaviour, but to abolish it completely is short-sighted, and a bit naïve. I think New Zealand has already advanced on the slippery slope of contributing more resources into criminal rehabilitation and incarceration than in victim support and reparation.
Who decides which opinion is offensive to whom? Im sure that many people are just as offended by the new liberal sexual laws being passed, and the freedom of sexual expression. The people who support these liberal ideas have no right to assume that they are accepted by everyone either, because they are not, but you dont find conservative thinkers arranging lynch mobs because their sensitive constitutions have been offended.
So, its okay for an innocent person to be incarcerated for life, as long as they are not dished the death sentence? The same argument can be applied to those who never get caught, and walk the streets freely. We are not a perfect society, but you cant throw the baby out with the bath water, there has to be laws and rules in a civilised society, and that might mean some collateral damage along the way, but that is the price we pay for peace of mind.
Look at countries like Finland, small population, relatively large country, with electrified railways. The difference is not the size of the population or country, its the foresight that accompanied the construction of the railroads. Its not too late for NZ, but some sort of initiative needs to be taken, and I dont think we have that calibre of leadership in government.
The reasoning is flawed.The Canadian speakers were not convicted criminals.The issue is not about the content of their speech, because nobody can be condemned for a speech that has not even happened, but its about the character of the person.The reasons cited for wanting to allow Manning to speak are circumspect at best, and downright disturbing if we actually agree with his/her actions. Despite what our own feelings may be towards America, we must acknowledge that he/she was guilty of a crime against the state, and, even though he/she has served some of the sentence, there is a huge question regarding his/her moral integrity, or lack thereof. We simply dont need to hear non-relevant subjective views from a person of dubious character. We dont need this kind of free speech.What the Canadians had to say was more relevant, and would have been more beneficial to NZ as a country.
What suppression of the media? Another case of subjectivity getting the better of truth? What exactly is Trump doing that is contrary to his election promises and public mandate????
This is a fallen world we live in, you cant fix the unfixable.Contrary to the belief that the world is set on a course of improvement, due to technological advancement, and prevailing liberal attitudes, the truth is quite contrary.
Wrong, this act relates to an act in progress, not pre-judgement or pre-mediating action.You cannot charge someone if they have not committed a crime, based on suspicion alone, please read up on how the law works.
Something is only inspired by God if those doing the praying are 1 believers, which, in this case, I seriously doubt, therefore they are making a mockery of the Christian faith by going through this ritual.The same can be said for people who bow and show respect for Maori blessings, pointless and ridiculous, unless you believe in the ritual.
The problem with this article is that the author cannot see the correlation between love and punishment. She assumes that the two are mutually exclusive. If you punish your child, you are showing tough love, or restricted love as she puts it.I dont know what evidence she is referring to, but the overwhelming evidence suggests that love is not the overriding factor in determining levels of punishment, but, rather the degree of engagement and responsibility of a parent.The author also fails to grasp the fact that punishment is intended to correct behaviour, and if it has to be used time and time again, then it has failed, and can be consider5ed an imposed cruelty rather than a benefit to the child. A case in point is the silly naughty corner, or time out, which is used so often as to be nothing more than going through the motions, and teaching the child nothing.The statistics dont lie, and there is a strong correlation between the liberal limp-wristed approach to child raising today, and the increase in youth delinquency rates.
All sounds so idyllic, however, the reality does not always match the hype.Wildlife encounters actually play a very insignificant part in South African life, as any tourist will quickly find out, the over-riding experience is usually one of looking over your shoulder, being acutely aware of security, holding onto your possessions, and avoiding suspicious looking people.As for the Mandela experience, dont waste your time, its nothing more than a tourist trap.
I wouldnt ban anyone from speaking, that being the major difference between right thinkers and left thinkers, but I would not go to a Nelson Mandela rally, because I prefer not to pollute my mind with that kind of hateful propaganda.
When it comes down to it, there is no feasible explanation for the cause of depression offered here, and without knowing the cause of something, how can it be fixed? NZ has long promoted the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff solution to every problem, and merrily goes about the foolish business of repeating the same mistakes, and expecting different outcomes.When people dont want to hear the truth, because it goes against their core worldviews and sensibilities, then, carry on, because you are part of the problem.
I would beg to differ. The results of research are overwhelmingly in support of many social ills, including crime, being directly influenced by the erosion of family structure, and degraded social environments.
I think this more than aptly demonstrates the divide between conservatives and liberals.As an example, the fact that many liberals in Britain are now calling for a new referendum, simply because they are unsatisfied with the result of the first referendum, is an affront to democracy.Similarly, those in America opposed to the Trump administration are also an embarrassment to America. Accept that the Trump administration is the duly elected authority, and stop acting like petulant children who cant get their own way. Im sure that if the Democrats come into power the next election, we wont see similar bad and anti-social behaviour from Republican supporters.Did National supporters become militant and threatening when the coalition came into power? of course not, that is what democracy is. some you win, and some you lose, but you must always have respect for the powers in authority, no matter how you disagree with their policies.
I believe in a free press, but the danger is when opinion becomes the instigator of news, rather than relying on facts alone.This is the prevalent MO today, in all press circles, and, instead of reporting news-worthy articles, the media has become the creator and opinion driver, rather than the news reporter.They decide what is newsworthy, and what political stance to take. The fact that the majority of media is liberally inclined has not gone unnoticed, and in that respect, Trump is 100% correct. The overwhelming majority of the media, in the States, and abroad, spend their time trying to discredit the President, and sow discord amongst the people...they have a definite agenda.For all the talk of the benefits of a fair and strong press, when the media is its own moderator, there is nothing free or fair about it, and expressing personal views as factual news is a diabolical attempt to influence public opinion. This is paramount to fake news.
In this particular case, Fords story has been inconsistent, and full of untruths, which, at the end of the day, underlines the fact that her accusation should never even have made it to a hearing stage, it would have been thrown out if due process was followed, and a police investigation ensued.Its a travesty how the Democrats manipulated both Ford, and the system.I find it particularly disturbing that Susan can include the following comment Some commentators claimed that Brett Kavanaugh should be entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. when there should not be a single person who does not think that Kavanagh deserves anything less than due process.I believe that certain Democrats, and Ford are likely to experience follow up investigations, if not prosecution, and I honestly hope that they make an example of her, and other members of the liberal Democrats who initiated this fiasco.
No surprise that many liberals immediately go on the defensive the minute their cherished utopian dream of a free for all society is questioned. The short-sightedness that leads people to believe that the world can be made a better place by removing all structure, boundaries, and limitations is founded in foolishness.Without structure, anything collapses, and the family is no different. We can look at the bigger picture, and see how strong family structure supports strong community, which in turn supports strong society. Ideology is the root cause of society collapse, as proven historically, and liberalism is just another form of ideology that is causing Western society to self-implode. We have difficulty seeing it happen, because we are caught in the middle of it, and blinded by the constant manipulation of facts, and cherry-picked news from the media.
And your point is? Do you know how the American electoral system works? Certainly the American know, and that includes the Democrats, so what are you getting at? Trump was elected president by the electoral process, so accept it, and support the man.
Of course I can, but I will refrain from doing so, because, if you need to ask, that means you are either pulling my leg, or you really dont know.If it is the latter, then this forum is not the appropriate platform, and if it is the former, then you are wasting my time.As a matter of interest, if you are being serious, do you know what the liberal agenda is? or do you just follow the crowd?
Trump has become the saviour of America. His popularity will soar as more and more of the leftist accusations against him evaporate into nothingness. He is already the greatest president in living memory.
Cat is not an acronym, you really need to think before just forging ahead with a pointless reply. Most people dont know what LGBTQ, or whatever is the flavour of the month, stands for, nor do they care, so to assume that people would go to the effort to search for it is a bit arrogant and pompous, and probably reflects the prevailing attitude of most people who support these fabrications.
What has sexuality got to do with sport, or any activity for that matter? Why would anyone want to encourage freedom of sexuality in sport anyway? I dont know what kind of sport you watch, but, I wouldnt call voyeurism a sport.
Better to tear the whole mall down, and look for a new location for a mall...away from the main street. The Hutt CBD has suffered since the mall was built, and maybe this could trigger a revival for retailers and restaurateurs if it had to go.
Someone is racist when they declare illegal immigrants to be invaders? I must have missed the memo that said we are no loinger allowed to decide who enters our country.What absolute tripe! Your bias towards Trump is nauseating.
I fear you are projecting your own insecurities into the article. Garth McVicar is not espousing that we somehow turn back the clock, he is merely pointing out the fact that family values and structure has been lost over the years, and the terrible impact this has had on our society, especially relating to crime.He doesnt even hazard to suggest the reason for this, although it is blatantly obvious, except for the most myopic of left-liners. The solution is nothing, if not unpalatable to the majority of New Zealanders, who have been actively chipping away at the values that were so valiantly fought for over centuries by our ancestors.In a few decades of moral decay and liberal corruption, all that has been undone, and, you are right, there is no going back, so trying to hold McVicar to account is a strange tactic indeed.We cant look at individual cases and draw conclusions, we look at overall statistics to map trends, so your individual experience is only relevant to you, and would form a small part of a bigger picture.
Unfortunately, most people dont realise that religion is nothing more than manmade doctrines and constrictions based on mutual accommodation.. The followers of all religions have a perceived need that is being met, and the religious leaders have a need of followers to stay in power. In this respect, the author is 100% correct.We cannot categorise all religions under one type, but need to look at each in isolation. What is troubling is that the Anglicans and Catholics, for example, are referred to, and associated with the Christian faith. Any theologian well studied in the Bible will tell you that these are religious cults, far removed from the Apostolic church, and solely structured to maintain control and power over the masses.Most people are kept in ignorance, for the benefit of the leaders, whether they are God believing, or atheist, nobody wants people asking too many questions, its simply not good for business.
You are heading in the right direction, but you fall short of identifying the 1 nature of the liberal Democrat movement.In recent times it has become apparent that the only way that liberals will be satisfied is when there is a shift towards anarchy. This is the liberal agenda folks, like it or not, the PC brigade is breaking down the fabric of society stich by stich, and as every subsequent protest becomes more and more militant, we see groups such as ANTIFA becoming more and more prevalent and disruptive.There can be no middle ground when dealing with fanatics.
The problem is that Hollywood endorses the kind of liberal leftist candidates that need to be kept out of politics, and Taylor Swift is no exception, her views on politics, and liberalism are toxic.
Either we spend time meeting childrens emotional needs by filling their cup with love, or we spend time dealing with their behaviours caused by their unmet needs. Either way, we spend time.Benito Rebolledo
There is a recent case in the USA of a taxi driver being accused of sexual harassment by his intoxicated female passengers, because they didnt want to pay the fare. He would have been arrested and charged, because it would have been a three against one testimony, except that he had a camera in the cab that recorded the whole thing.He is now proceeding with a libel action against them...I say good on him, his life could so easily have been destroyed because of this callous and unmerited accusation.
Im not questioning the accuracy or the details of this article, but I must say that every agency that has been involved with social and domestic issues, either privately run, of state run, have fallen short of addressing the real issues.The emphasis seems to be on providing a new shiny ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, and the prospect of discussing what is going on at the top of the cliff is briefly alluded to.Its pretty clear that nobody involved in social services has a clue why the stats are so horrendous. We all know what happens in an abusive situation, so describing the forms of abuse is no closer to solving the issues.If these people dont ask the right questions, they wont get the right answers, and they have been avoiding the truth for a long time now. Im not about to tell these people how to do their jobs, but they are as much a part of the problem as the dysfunctional people who seem to be trapped in an unending cycle.
An even better idea...why dont you follow your own advice? Why support banning the Canadians from speaking? why not just refrain from going to the event? I am voicing my opinion regarding the speaker, and possible content of the speech, but Im not supporting banning anything. I know that libs will always try and shout down anyone who opposes their views, its the liberal way...my way or the highway.
How do you measure emotions?Who said that only measurable things are 1? The problem is the limited mind-set of people who follow the atheist religion, not being able to question their own belief system.
Give it up already, its not working.Unless people have a real and vested interest in learning a language, it is dead in the water, and no amount of propaganda is going to change that.
Ummm, perhaps as a warning? In a similar manor that we feel heat before our hands are burned on the stove.You are using the old straw man argument, LOL.
Generally a fanatic is someone who opposes what is commonly considered acceptable behaviour in the eyes of the prevailing moral attitudes, government and judicial systems. Protesters are not considered fanatical unless they start impeding other peoples liberties and rights.If you take a look at what is happening in America today, it becomes glaringly obvious that protests are becoming more about limiting others freedom of expression rather than standing for a specific ideal.
Good article, although, alas, most people will fail to grasp the 1 narrative.Technically, NZ is a secular nation, however, if one considers that all we have done is replace one set of beliefs with another, then, no, we are not a secular nation.Belief in evolution is also a religion, but comes with the added problems associated with there being no intrinsic absolute moral codes.
What a load of crock.Since when is higher education a human right?It is a privilege, if anything, and one that is sorely abused in this country of entitlement and abuse of tax payer dollars. Everyone has a right to a high school education, but thats where it ends.Students have no right to expect hard working tax payers to foot the bill for their studies.
Are you asking the non-Maori to sort out your family issues? The stats seem to suggest that Maori cannot get their own house in order, but the government thinks that making more money easier to get hold of will somehow fix the dysfunctional family issues?
The same scenario in Naenae, and tenants say that the owners are not looking for tenants, because it profits them to run their property as vacant, and they are land banking.
Exactly, this is pure racism, based on the definition of racism. The outrage is that they are not even trying to hide the fact that this is for the benefit of one race above another.All the talk of past discretions, imagined or not, against Maori are irrelevant to the present situation, this is race-based, and not circumstance-based.
Agreed, religion has no place, but we should all be promoting Christianity.There is no other way, and turning away from the truth is the cause of the downward spiral that is destroying the world. What has modern society got to do with the truth? It is the atheists who brain-wash the young minds with lies and hate.
That doesnt even make sense. Would you rather have a free-for-all access to drugs? Do you understand that drugs are illegal, which makes dealing and using them illegal as well? You dont legalise something just because its difficult to police, you find ways to police it more effectively.
You seem to have a very narrow view of religion, but I agree with you on certain points, religion is a scourge.The problem is that Christianity is not a religion, and a Christian cannot be painted with the same brush as denominational religions, who account for the vast majority of people who are considered Christian, but are not.This is the dilemma, that the world judges Christians based on the actions of 0, nominal Christians, and they dont know any better.
Hmmm, your comment seems very strange. The past two weekends alone have been near perfect, with no hint of a breeze, and we are in Winter! Maybe you should actually visit our beautiful city one day, and not believe all the haters out there. As for the surf, Ive lived for most of my life in a city famed for its beaches and surf, and yet, Ive never surfed, because I dont care for it, and good luck trying to have a quiet stroll on one of the beaches! I guess Wellington is more for the discerning palette..
The problem is that asking for a helping hand has become the new normal for a certain sector of the population, and, unless there is a change in mind-set, initiatives to empower certain people will achieve very little success, but go a long way to drive a wedge between them and the other productive members of the population.
Sad that you feel that way, because if people cant face the truth, then there is no solution. People are inherently self-centred and devious, and devoid of accountability, so rejecting a higher authority is par for the course, but dont pretend that there is another solution out there.
You dont get it, are you a parent? probably not.Dont make the rookie mistake of blurring the lines between corrective punishment and child abuse.All corrective punishment is good and has long-lasting positive repercussions, whereas abuse is just that...abuse.
I lived in Auckland for 12 years, but have now made Wellington my home, the weather can be unsettling in Winter, but summers are somewhat better than Auckland, and overall, is a more dynamic city...imagine what it will be like when it does hit a million!
You do realise what a contradiction it is to be talking about having limitations and constraints in personal behaviour without acknowledging the existence of morals?
Of course a desperate opposition will promise anything to garner votes, especially when they have no real chance of winning the election...unless the most undemocratic election system in existence (MMP) turns politics on its head, and confounds a country.
Really? maybe you should do some research into socialist states, and you will quickly realise that there has never been one successful socialist state, not even the Nordic countries, who have been actively moving away from that ideology.You never find people moving to a socialist state, the movement is always in the opposite direction.Probably the most relevant example is Venezuela, which is a rich country, brought to its knees through socialist oppression. The socialist left is responsible for hundreds of millions of deaths around the world, and you say they dont advocate totalitarianism? The irony is that liberals are the least liberal when is comes to anyone opposing their ideology.Think about it...
I cringe whenever I see an article mentioning church and Anglican in the same sentence.These denominations might appear to be Christian to many secularists, but they are far from following the decrees of the Bible.Even more cringe-worthy are the comments from people who have no more than an elementary concept of the Bible, based on hearsay, misinformation, and popular culture. Really folks, personal opinion is one thing, but when you are shooting so far off the mark, its an embarrassment, and shows total disrespect towards people who have much greater knowledge in this field.
And what exactly is the issue that needs to be addressed? There is a lot of talk about these issues, with very little meat on the bone. Please explain what this issue is?
If we are looking for a more informed populace, universities should be excluded, as they are the breeding grounds of ant-establishment, liberal, and extremist views. As we are seeing more and more, the militant liberal extremists target the weak-minded students, with tremendous effect.
The whole premise of the article is based on the liberal world view that America is an oppressive society under the Trump administration. This could not be further from the truth, so a bit of balanced reporting will go a long way in setting up an equal and objective platform for any future dialogue and debate.
As a father myself, I dont sympathise with you at all. My experiences have been the polar opposite, and I could not have felt more needed through my wifes pregnancies, and child rearing.What Im seeing is a person who is battling with self-esteem issues, and inferiority complexes. I understand how this is prevalent in the male population today, with all the anti-male sentiment and agendas out there, but, unless you support gender role reversal, stand up and be a man first, and a husband and father second.No wife worth her salt will appreciate a winy and effeminate version of a husband who cannot be relied upon to support her unless he is explicitly told what to do.And your wife is not your partner, unless you share a business concern with her.
Premeditated murder is completely different to imposing the death penalty on a convicted criminal as a punishment for his actions. No wonder this country is so confused when the moral compass is spinning out of control. Nobody is willing to stand up and take responsibility, it s far easier to just lock all criminals away, and hope that the problems will somehow go away. You talk about execution of innocents, but, is it better for that innocent person to endure a lifelong incarceration?
Let's not let te reo fall into extinction
Languages dont benefit from being kept on life-support. Language is a tool, that has the purpose of translating thoughts to words and writing. I dont agree with your sentiment that most New Zealanders want to hear te reo spoken more often, I think this is more a flight of fancy than , perhaps, a reflection of the 1 state of affairs.What makes te reo better than any of the other archaic languages that are falling into disuse?In my opinion, from what I have seen around the world, encouraging multilingualism only serves to divide cultures and communities within the countries that have attempted this.To really unite New Zealand, we need one common language, and we need to focus on teaching people how to read and write this language to a better standard than we are seeing at the moment.
Criticism over Chelsea Manning's NZ visit is about condemning whistleblowers
More like an international embarrassment!
NZ works to double refugee quota as others close their borders
And no mention of the dire consequences when diametrically opposed traditions and beliefs are thrown together. As is evident globally, and contrary to the naïve thinking of the liberal left, refugees, asylum seeks, or immigrants, do not integrate into the host countries traditions and beliefs, but maintain strong attachments to their own.This becomes a problem when people hold strong religious ideals that are incompatible to the host nation, and, instead of assimilating into the local population, begin to distance themselves as a different culture and tradition, unprepared to embrace the host.Why do we want these people who hold their own traditions above our own? What disgraceful behaviour from people who claim to love New Zealand!
Joel Maxwell: Kaua e pukuriri ki te reo - don't be angry at the language
The problem is that those promoting te reo just dont get how offensive it is to thrust a language upon someone in the forceful manner in which it is being done.If we can take any lessons from history, we should have learned that any culture that is force-fed will soon become history itself. If people choose to learn a language voluntarily, then it can be classified as useful, otherwise it becomes despised and worthless, which is exactly what is happening to te reo at the moment,Those who would promote it are the harbingers of its demise.Non-Maori are not interested in the history of a language steeped in paganism, and which has no relevance to modern culture or technological advancement.
Technology has advanced, but our judgment hasn't
America is not a democracy, it is a Constitutional Federal Republic (a federation of states with a Representative Democracy)republic. If it was a democracy, Hillary would have been President.
Verity Johnson: Why going to a male strip club is a feminist experience
So how would Verity describe feminism?Is it trying to emulate the excesses and bad behaviour of the male gender? is it trying to stay clear of the excesses and bad behaviour attributed to the male gender, is it trying to supress and belittle the male gender, is it trying to find a clearer line of distinction between male and female, or is it trying to blur the lines of distinction?
Criticism over Chelsea Manning's NZ visit is about condemning whistleblowers
Personally, I am offended by your hateful attitude. You cannot go around name throwing and spreading unfounded lies, this is biased hate-speech coming from you. You seem to believe your own misinformation hype, which is rather tragic.
Taking the Nauru kids makes moral and political sense
Why? NZ doesnt have any greater moral obligation than any other country, besides, when the poverty level in NZ is on the increase, how can such a gesture be justified? Simple humanitarian grounds are not enough, when our own people are sleeping rough.
Te reo in schools could help connect young Kiwis to NZ culture
The problem with learning Te reo, as opposed to French, or German, is that the language embraces a culture, and cannot be separated from the Maori traditions and oral history.This means that, unless a person embraces the culture and traditions of Maori, it is difficult to embrace the language in its entirety, so much of it is relevant only to Maori values.My problem is that their pagan beliefs and traditions are so alien and unpalatable to my own beliefs and traditions that their is no way that I could embrace such a language, and nobody should be in a position where they feel that they must compromise their own values in order to learn another language.
New Zealand dropped from Lonely Planets top countries list
Zimbabwe???PC gone too far if you ask me.
Verity Johnson: Swearing is my little act of rebellion against what polite people do
Umm, I think youll find that it is the PC brigade, as you call it, that are more inclined to use foul language, because it is part and parcel of their everything is acceptable mantra.Boundaries have been removed by the liberal PC brigade, and that includes the use of foul language.
We can't leave it to women to fix inequality in the workplace
I have yet to be shown an example of inequality.I have always known males and females to be paid the similarly for doing the same jobs.The only inequality I have witnessed is the willingness on the part of many corporations to favour the promotion of females over males in recent years, irrespective of job performance.Perhaps the inequality issue is more to do with percentage representation in certain fields, which is more indicative of the difference between males and females than many of the neo-liberals feel comfortable with.
Will electric locomotives on main trunk line be scrapped?
NZ had to strike a deal with China to build locomotives (and wagons), to meet our end of the free-trade agreement. Nothing to do with emissions, or cost savings for KiwiRail.KiwiRail is being used as a political pawn in a much bigger game, to ensure and enhance our reputation with our largest trading partner.
Editorial: Massey wrong on Brash ban
The main point is that the decision to ban Brash from speaking was based on the opinion of one person. Albeit the reasoning behind that opinion, remains her subjective opinion, and, especially in her position, and taking into account the nature of the institution she represents, she has displayed an arrogance of the highest order.The day NZ stopped allowing freedom of expression and speech, based on the opinions of a handful of liberal-minded individuals, is the day that NZ lost all credibility as an objective and forward-thinking country. Shame on Massey university, you are an embarrassment to us all.
Taking the Nauru kids makes moral and political sense
In your opinion only. For the majority of us, it is a sad day when a country is more concerned about illegal immigrants than their own people. There is no shame in controlling who enters your country, it would be foolish to welcome everyone with an open arm policy.
"Did Brett Kavanaugh deserve 'innocent until proven guilty'?",
Susan is showing a distinct lack of understanding in how impeachment proceedings work, and a lack of discernment and judgement in not being able to distinguish between due process and a witch hunt.Its this kind of imbalance opinion that leads the general uninformed populace to view the Democrats as the victims and the Republicans as the villains, when the reality is quite different.
Technology has advanced, but our judgment hasn't
America is not a democracy, is a Constitutional Federal Republic (a federation of states with a Representative Democracy)Please people, wise up, how can you comment on American politics when you dont even know what type of constitution is in play?
Time for tougher penalties on cell-phone distracted drivers
Its sad that NZ doesnt take road safety seriously, being more concerned about sport and American politics. I wonder what the tipping point is, how many accidents and deaths need to occur, before the government starts taking driving seriously?
Editorial: Massey wrong on Brash ban
The tool of choice in controlling the masses has always been ignorance, and finding a supposed institute of learning at the forefront of this movement is shocking. Enlightenment leads to freedom, darkness and censorship lead to bondage.
Medicinal cannabis drugs should be in doctors' toolbox
The issue is not with medicinal cannabis, its with the people who think this means a free-for-all legalised recreational cannabis. They just cant see the dividing line.
Garth McVicar: Family breakdown is behind our high prison numbers
Excellent article, focusing on actual truth for a change.Liberals have a lot to answer for, and their time will come.
Katy Perry weighs in on Jacinda Ardern and why the Auckland concerts will be special ones
What was the point of Carolyn Robinson mentioning the Prime Ministers baby to Katy Perry?Im sure that Jacinda having a baby is her own business, and not a fun fact that is appropriate to an interview with a pop singer! Talk about small-mindedness in NZ
It's time for civilised countries to follow New Zealand's lead on the death penalty
If we could say, that as a civilised country, we have abolished violent, cruel, and destructive criminal behaviour, then, yes, I would agree with the sentiments of the Pope, and the author, but, until that is the case, I dont believe there is sufficient validation to abolish the death penalty. Im not suggesting the use of the death penalty in anything other than the most extreme cases of sociopathic behaviour, but to abolish it completely is short-sighted, and a bit naïve. I think New Zealand has already advanced on the slippery slope of contributing more resources into criminal rehabilitation and incarceration than in victim support and reparation.
Should Israel Folau have been fired?
Who decides which opinion is offensive to whom? Im sure that many people are just as offended by the new liberal sexual laws being passed, and the freedom of sexual expression. The people who support these liberal ideas have no right to assume that they are accepted by everyone either, because they are not, but you dont find conservative thinkers arranging lynch mobs because their sensitive constitutions have been offended.
It's time for civilised countries to follow New Zealand's lead on the death penalty
So, its okay for an innocent person to be incarcerated for life, as long as they are not dished the death sentence? The same argument can be applied to those who never get caught, and walk the streets freely. We are not a perfect society, but you cant throw the baby out with the bath water, there has to be laws and rules in a civilised society, and that might mean some collateral damage along the way, but that is the price we pay for peace of mind.
Will electric locomotives on main trunk line be scrapped?
Look at countries like Finland, small population, relatively large country, with electrified railways. The difference is not the size of the population or country, its the foresight that accompanied the construction of the railroads. Its not too late for NZ, but some sort of initiative needs to be taken, and I dont think we have that calibre of leadership in government.
Editorial: Manning visit an open and shut free speech case
The reasoning is flawed.The Canadian speakers were not convicted criminals.The issue is not about the content of their speech, because nobody can be condemned for a speech that has not even happened, but its about the character of the person.The reasons cited for wanting to allow Manning to speak are circumspect at best, and downright disturbing if we actually agree with his/her actions. Despite what our own feelings may be towards America, we must acknowledge that he/she was guilty of a crime against the state, and, even though he/she has served some of the sentence, there is a huge question regarding his/her moral integrity, or lack thereof. We simply dont need to hear non-relevant subjective views from a person of dubious character. We dont need this kind of free speech.What the Canadians had to say was more relevant, and would have been more beneficial to NZ as a country.
Editorial: Massey wrong on Brash ban
Self-appointed guardians of our morality? I cant think of anyone more inadequately equipped than an arrogant, self-serving, liberal autocrat.
Editorial: The media is not the enemy
What suppression of the media? Another case of subjectivity getting the better of truth? What exactly is Trump doing that is contrary to his election promises and public mandate????
It's not the justice system that's broken, it's the people
This is a fallen world we live in, you cant fix the unfixable.Contrary to the belief that the world is set on a course of improvement, due to technological advancement, and prevailing liberal attitudes, the truth is quite contrary.
Editorial: Massey wrong on Brash ban
Wrong, this act relates to an act in progress, not pre-judgement or pre-mediating action.You cannot charge someone if they have not committed a crime, based on suspicion alone, please read up on how the law works.
Te reo in schools could help connect young Kiwis to NZ culture
Exactly, nothing more than historical propaganda
Why white blue-collar voters love President Donald Trump
And yet, despite these reports to the contrary, Americas economy continues to forge ahead.
Prayers remain commonplace for opening council business around New Zealand
Something is only inspired by God if those doing the praying are 1 believers, which, in this case, I seriously doubt, therefore they are making a mockery of the Christian faith by going through this ritual.The same can be said for people who bow and show respect for Maori blessings, pointless and ridiculous, unless you believe in the ritual.
Tough love, an outdated parenting style that Kiwis favour
The problem with this article is that the author cannot see the correlation between love and punishment. She assumes that the two are mutually exclusive. If you punish your child, you are showing tough love, or restricted love as she puts it.I dont know what evidence she is referring to, but the overwhelming evidence suggests that love is not the overriding factor in determining levels of punishment, but, rather the degree of engagement and responsibility of a parent.The author also fails to grasp the fact that punishment is intended to correct behaviour, and if it has to be used time and time again, then it has failed, and can be consider5ed an imposed cruelty rather than a benefit to the child. A case in point is the silly naughty corner, or time out, which is used so often as to be nothing more than going through the motions, and teaching the child nothing.The statistics dont lie, and there is a strong correlation between the liberal limp-wristed approach to child raising today, and the increase in youth delinquency rates.
Five reasons to visit South Africa
All sounds so idyllic, however, the reality does not always match the hype.Wildlife encounters actually play a very insignificant part in South African life, as any tourist will quickly find out, the over-riding experience is usually one of looking over your shoulder, being acutely aware of security, holding onto your possessions, and avoiding suspicious looking people.As for the Mandela experience, dont waste your time, its nothing more than a tourist trap.
Editorial: Manning visit an open and shut free speech case
I wouldnt ban anyone from speaking, that being the major difference between right thinkers and left thinkers, but I would not go to a Nelson Mandela rally, because I prefer not to pollute my mind with that kind of hateful propaganda.
There really is depression in New Zealand
When it comes down to it, there is no feasible explanation for the cause of depression offered here, and without knowing the cause of something, how can it be fixed? NZ has long promoted the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff solution to every problem, and merrily goes about the foolish business of repeating the same mistakes, and expecting different outcomes.When people dont want to hear the truth, because it goes against their core worldviews and sensibilities, then, carry on, because you are part of the problem.
Garth McVicar: Family breakdown is behind our high prison numbers
I would beg to differ. The results of research are overwhelmingly in support of many social ills, including crime, being directly influenced by the erosion of family structure, and degraded social environments.
Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the lost art of shunning
I think this more than aptly demonstrates the divide between conservatives and liberals.As an example, the fact that many liberals in Britain are now calling for a new referendum, simply because they are unsatisfied with the result of the first referendum, is an affront to democracy.Similarly, those in America opposed to the Trump administration are also an embarrassment to America. Accept that the Trump administration is the duly elected authority, and stop acting like petulant children who cant get their own way. Im sure that if the Democrats come into power the next election, we wont see similar bad and anti-social behaviour from Republican supporters.Did National supporters become militant and threatening when the coalition came into power? of course not, that is what democracy is. some you win, and some you lose, but you must always have respect for the powers in authority, no matter how you disagree with their policies.
Editorial: The media is not the enemy
I believe in a free press, but the danger is when opinion becomes the instigator of news, rather than relying on facts alone.This is the prevalent MO today, in all press circles, and, instead of reporting news-worthy articles, the media has become the creator and opinion driver, rather than the news reporter.They decide what is newsworthy, and what political stance to take. The fact that the majority of media is liberally inclined has not gone unnoticed, and in that respect, Trump is 100% correct. The overwhelming majority of the media, in the States, and abroad, spend their time trying to discredit the President, and sow discord amongst the people...they have a definite agenda.For all the talk of the benefits of a fair and strong press, when the media is its own moderator, there is nothing free or fair about it, and expressing personal views as factual news is a diabolical attempt to influence public opinion. This is paramount to fake news.
"Did Brett Kavanaugh deserve 'innocent until proven guilty'?",
In this particular case, Fords story has been inconsistent, and full of untruths, which, at the end of the day, underlines the fact that her accusation should never even have made it to a hearing stage, it would have been thrown out if due process was followed, and a police investigation ensued.Its a travesty how the Democrats manipulated both Ford, and the system.I find it particularly disturbing that Susan can include the following comment Some commentators claimed that Brett Kavanaugh should be entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. when there should not be a single person who does not think that Kavanagh deserves anything less than due process.I believe that certain Democrats, and Ford are likely to experience follow up investigations, if not prosecution, and I honestly hope that they make an example of her, and other members of the liberal Democrats who initiated this fiasco.
Garth McVicar: Family breakdown is behind our high prison numbers
No surprise that many liberals immediately go on the defensive the minute their cherished utopian dream of a free for all society is questioned. The short-sightedness that leads people to believe that the world can be made a better place by removing all structure, boundaries, and limitations is founded in foolishness.Without structure, anything collapses, and the family is no different. We can look at the bigger picture, and see how strong family structure supports strong community, which in turn supports strong society. Ideology is the root cause of society collapse, as proven historically, and liberalism is just another form of ideology that is causing Western society to self-implode. We have difficulty seeing it happen, because we are caught in the middle of it, and blinded by the constant manipulation of facts, and cherry-picked news from the media.
Editorial: Manning visit an open and shut free speech case
What exactly does it say?
Technology has advanced, but our judgment hasn't
And your point is? Do you know how the American electoral system works? Certainly the American know, and that includes the Democrats, so what are you getting at? Trump was elected president by the electoral process, so accept it, and support the man.
Garth McVicar: Family breakdown is behind our high prison numbers
Of course I can, but I will refrain from doing so, because, if you need to ask, that means you are either pulling my leg, or you really dont know.If it is the latter, then this forum is not the appropriate platform, and if it is the former, then you are wasting my time.As a matter of interest, if you are being serious, do you know what the liberal agenda is? or do you just follow the crowd?
"Turning our political history into a soap opera just might get the kids voting",
LOL, Lorde is as irresponsible as those who would follow her, some role-model!
"Middle ground and compromise abandoned as US politics reaches peak partisanism",
Trump has become the saviour of America. His popularity will soar as more and more of the leftist accusations against him evaporate into nothingness. He is already the greatest president in living memory.
Alison Mau: It's right questions are asked of LGBTI Awards
Cat is not an acronym, you really need to think before just forging ahead with a pointless reply. Most people dont know what LGBTQ, or whatever is the flavour of the month, stands for, nor do they care, so to assume that people would go to the effort to search for it is a bit arrogant and pompous, and probably reflects the prevailing attitude of most people who support these fabrications.
Should Israel Folau have been fired?
What has sexuality got to do with sport, or any activity for that matter? Why would anyone want to encourage freedom of sexuality in sport anyway? I dont know what kind of sport you watch, but, I wouldnt call voyeurism a sport.
Seismic report finds 50 shops in Lower Hutt's Queensgate mall are quake-prone
Better to tear the whole mall down, and look for a new location for a mall...away from the main street. The Hutt CBD has suffered since the mall was built, and maybe this could trigger a revival for retailers and restaurateurs if it had to go.
Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the lost art of shunning
Someone is racist when they declare illegal immigrants to be invaders? I must have missed the memo that said we are no loinger allowed to decide who enters our country.What absolute tripe! Your bias towards Trump is nauseating.
Garth McVicar: Family breakdown is behind our high prison numbers
I fear you are projecting your own insecurities into the article. Garth McVicar is not espousing that we somehow turn back the clock, he is merely pointing out the fact that family values and structure has been lost over the years, and the terrible impact this has had on our society, especially relating to crime.He doesnt even hazard to suggest the reason for this, although it is blatantly obvious, except for the most myopic of left-liners. The solution is nothing, if not unpalatable to the majority of New Zealanders, who have been actively chipping away at the values that were so valiantly fought for over centuries by our ancestors.In a few decades of moral decay and liberal corruption, all that has been undone, and, you are right, there is no going back, so trying to hold McVicar to account is a strange tactic indeed.We cant look at individual cases and draw conclusions, we look at overall statistics to map trends, so your individual experience is only relevant to you, and would form a small part of a bigger picture.
"Men have made a mess of things in organised religion",
Unfortunately, most people dont realise that religion is nothing more than manmade doctrines and constrictions based on mutual accommodation.. The followers of all religions have a perceived need that is being met, and the religious leaders have a need of followers to stay in power. In this respect, the author is 100% correct.We cannot categorise all religions under one type, but need to look at each in isolation. What is troubling is that the Anglicans and Catholics, for example, are referred to, and associated with the Christian faith. Any theologian well studied in the Bible will tell you that these are religious cults, far removed from the Apostolic church, and solely structured to maintain control and power over the masses.Most people are kept in ignorance, for the benefit of the leaders, whether they are God believing, or atheist, nobody wants people asking too many questions, its simply not good for business.
"Middle ground and compromise abandoned as US politics reaches peak partisanism",
You are heading in the right direction, but you fall short of identifying the 1 nature of the liberal Democrat movement.In recent times it has become apparent that the only way that liberals will be satisfied is when there is a shift towards anarchy. This is the liberal agenda folks, like it or not, the PC brigade is breaking down the fabric of society stich by stich, and as every subsequent protest becomes more and more militant, we see groups such as ANTIFA becoming more and more prevalent and disruptive.There can be no middle ground when dealing with fanatics.
She didn't come, hardly saw, but kind of conquered
Is the media reading too much into this?Seeing something that Im not seeing?What is all the hype about?
"Turning our political history into a soap opera just might get the kids voting",
The problem is that Hollywood endorses the kind of liberal leftist candidates that need to be kept out of politics, and Taylor Swift is no exception, her views on politics, and liberalism are toxic.
It's not the justice system that's broken, it's the people
Either we spend time meeting childrens emotional needs by filling their cup with love, or we spend time dealing with their behaviours caused by their unmet needs. Either way, we spend time.Benito Rebolledo
"Did Brett Kavanaugh deserve 'innocent until proven guilty'?",
There is a recent case in the USA of a taxi driver being accused of sexual harassment by his intoxicated female passengers, because they didnt want to pay the fare. He would have been arrested and charged, because it would have been a three against one testimony, except that he had a camera in the cab that recorded the whole thing.He is now proceeding with a libel action against them...I say good on him, his life could so easily have been destroyed because of this callous and unmerited accusation.
"Editorial: New report emphasises need for co-ordinated approach",
Im not questioning the accuracy or the details of this article, but I must say that every agency that has been involved with social and domestic issues, either privately run, of state run, have fallen short of addressing the real issues.The emphasis seems to be on providing a new shiny ambulance at the bottom of the cliff, and the prospect of discussing what is going on at the top of the cliff is briefly alluded to.Its pretty clear that nobody involved in social services has a clue why the stats are so horrendous. We all know what happens in an abusive situation, so describing the forms of abuse is no closer to solving the issues.If these people dont ask the right questions, they wont get the right answers, and they have been avoiding the truth for a long time now. Im not about to tell these people how to do their jobs, but they are as much a part of the problem as the dysfunctional people who seem to be trapped in an unending cycle.
Editorial: Manning visit an open and shut free speech case
An even better idea...why dont you follow your own advice? Why support banning the Canadians from speaking? why not just refrain from going to the event? I am voicing my opinion regarding the speaker, and possible content of the speech, but Im not supporting banning anything. I know that libs will always try and shout down anyone who opposes their views, its the liberal way...my way or the highway.
Churches turn to political barrow pushing to stay relevant
How do you measure emotions?Who said that only measurable things are 1? The problem is the limited mind-set of people who follow the atheist religion, not being able to question their own belief system.
Seven ways to celebrate Te Wiki o te reo MÄori
Give it up already, its not working.Unless people have a real and vested interest in learning a language, it is dead in the water, and no amount of propaganda is going to change that.
Churches turn to political barrow pushing to stay relevant
I rest my case...
Why not be a world leader on cannabis reform, instead of a follower?
Ummm, perhaps as a warning? In a similar manor that we feel heat before our hands are burned on the stove.You are using the old straw man argument, LOL.
Israel's propaganda project is failing and here is why
Read your history mate
"Middle ground and compromise abandoned as US politics reaches peak partisanism",
Generally a fanatic is someone who opposes what is commonly considered acceptable behaviour in the eyes of the prevailing moral attitudes, government and judicial systems. Protesters are not considered fanatical unless they start impeding other peoples liberties and rights.If you take a look at what is happening in America today, it becomes glaringly obvious that protests are becoming more about limiting others freedom of expression rather than standing for a specific ideal.
HELL pizza tackles discrimination against LGBTIQA+ community
Typical, throwing abuse names around based on your own opinions without any justification. Who are the real haters and bigots here?
New social justice rights limit long-standing freedoms
Good article, although, alas, most people will fail to grasp the 1 narrative.Technically, NZ is a secular nation, however, if one considers that all we have done is replace one set of beliefs with another, then, no, we are not a secular nation.Belief in evolution is also a religion, but comes with the added problems associated with there being no intrinsic absolute moral codes.
New social justice rights limit long-standing freedoms
What is your point? Are you suggesting that science is the sole preserve of the atheist?Pull the other one!
Prayers remain commonplace for opening council business around New Zealand
Why?
Calls for Government to scrap NCEA fees and pay students' course-related costs
What a load of crock.Since when is higher education a human right?It is a privilege, if anything, and one that is sorely abused in this country of entitlement and abuse of tax payer dollars. Everyone has a right to a high school education, but thats where it ends.Students have no right to expect hard working tax payers to foot the bill for their studies.
TÄ Koha brings a hyperlocal digital money raising platform for MÄori entrepreneurs
Are you asking the non-Maori to sort out your family issues? The stats seem to suggest that Maori cannot get their own house in order, but the government thinks that making more money easier to get hold of will somehow fix the dysfunctional family issues?
Struggle to find retail space despite Upper Hutt CBD shops sitting empty
The same scenario in Naenae, and tenants say that the owners are not looking for tenants, because it profits them to run their property as vacant, and they are land banking.
TÄ Koha brings a hyperlocal digital money raising platform for MÄori entrepreneurs
Exactly, this is pure racism, based on the definition of racism. The outrage is that they are not even trying to hide the fact that this is for the benefit of one race above another.All the talk of past discretions, imagined or not, against Maori are irrelevant to the present situation, this is race-based, and not circumstance-based.
Churches turn to political barrow pushing to stay relevant
Agreed, religion has no place, but we should all be promoting Christianity.There is no other way, and turning away from the truth is the cause of the downward spiral that is destroying the world. What has modern society got to do with the truth? It is the atheists who brain-wash the young minds with lies and hate.
Manning leaked info to break secrecy and privacy governments work under
How is this relevant to NZ?
HELL pizza tackles discrimination against LGBTIQA+ community
What hate speech?Is there any book in existence with less hate in it than the Bible?
Synthetic cannabis may be rife in Napier, but hardly anyone is getting convicted for it
That doesnt even make sense. Would you rather have a free-for-all access to drugs? Do you understand that drugs are illegal, which makes dealing and using them illegal as well? You dont legalise something just because its difficult to police, you find ways to police it more effectively.
Should Israel Folau have been fired?
How is it helping someone NOT to warn them???what am I missing here?
Churches turn to political barrow pushing to stay relevant
You seem to have a very narrow view of religion, but I agree with you on certain points, religion is a scourge.The problem is that Christianity is not a religion, and a Christian cannot be painted with the same brush as denominational religions, who account for the vast majority of people who are considered Christian, but are not.This is the dilemma, that the world judges Christians based on the actions of 0, nominal Christians, and they dont know any better.
Fiona Barber: Oh OK Wellington, I surrender
Hmmm, your comment seems very strange. The past two weekends alone have been near perfect, with no hint of a breeze, and we are in Winter! Maybe you should actually visit our beautiful city one day, and not believe all the haters out there. As for the surf, Ive lived for most of my life in a city famed for its beaches and surf, and yet, Ive never surfed, because I dont care for it, and good luck trying to have a quiet stroll on one of the beaches! I guess Wellington is more for the discerning palette..
TÄ Koha brings a hyperlocal digital money raising platform for MÄori entrepreneurs
The problem is that asking for a helping hand has become the new normal for a certain sector of the population, and, unless there is a change in mind-set, initiatives to empower certain people will achieve very little success, but go a long way to drive a wedge between them and the other productive members of the population.
It's time we walked the talk on treating drugs as a health issue
Sad that you feel that way, because if people cant face the truth, then there is no solution. People are inherently self-centred and devious, and devoid of accountability, so rejecting a higher authority is par for the course, but dont pretend that there is another solution out there.
Tough love, an outdated parenting style that Kiwis favour
You dont get it, are you a parent? probably not.Dont make the rookie mistake of blurring the lines between corrective punishment and child abuse.All corrective punishment is good and has long-lasting positive repercussions, whereas abuse is just that...abuse.
Fiona Barber: Oh OK Wellington, I surrender
I lived in Auckland for 12 years, but have now made Wellington my home, the weather can be unsettling in Winter, but summers are somewhat better than Auckland, and overall, is a more dynamic city...imagine what it will be like when it does hit a million!
TÄ Koha brings a hyperlocal digital money raising platform for MÄori entrepreneurs
Racism in its purest form.
It's time we walked the talk on treating drugs as a health issue
You do realise what a contradiction it is to be talking about having limitations and constraints in personal behaviour without acknowledging the existence of morals?
Glenn McConnell: Fees free is ill-thought-through craft cider socialism
Of course a desperate opposition will promise anything to garner votes, especially when they have no real chance of winning the election...unless the most undemocratic election system in existence (MMP) turns politics on its head, and confounds a country.
"Middle ground and compromise abandoned as US politics reaches peak partisanism",
Really? maybe you should do some research into socialist states, and you will quickly realise that there has never been one successful socialist state, not even the Nordic countries, who have been actively moving away from that ideology.You never find people moving to a socialist state, the movement is always in the opposite direction.Probably the most relevant example is Venezuela, which is a rich country, brought to its knees through socialist oppression. The socialist left is responsible for hundreds of millions of deaths around the world, and you say they dont advocate totalitarianism? The irony is that liberals are the least liberal when is comes to anyone opposing their ideology.Think about it...
Churches turn to political barrow pushing to stay relevant
I cringe whenever I see an article mentioning church and Anglican in the same sentence.These denominations might appear to be Christian to many secularists, but they are far from following the decrees of the Bible.Even more cringe-worthy are the comments from people who have no more than an elementary concept of the Bible, based on hearsay, misinformation, and popular culture. Really folks, personal opinion is one thing, but when you are shooting so far off the mark, its an embarrassment, and shows total disrespect towards people who have much greater knowledge in this field.
Much-maligned Law Society president leading taskforce into law culture change
And what exactly is the issue that needs to be addressed? There is a lot of talk about these issues, with very little meat on the bone. Please explain what this issue is?
"Turning our political history into a soap opera just might get the kids voting",
If we are looking for a more informed populace, universities should be excluded, as they are the breeding grounds of ant-establishment, liberal, and extremist views. As we are seeing more and more, the militant liberal extremists target the weak-minded students, with tremendous effect.
Why not be a world leader on cannabis reform, instead of a follower?
Really, you dont think cannabis is addictive, and destructive? You really live in a fools paradise.
Danielle McLaughlin: Americans healing the partisan divide from within
The whole premise of the article is based on the liberal world view that America is an oppressive society under the Trump administration. This could not be further from the truth, so a bit of balanced reporting will go a long way in setting up an equal and objective platform for any future dialogue and debate.
My wife is pregnant and I don't know how to feel
As a father myself, I dont sympathise with you at all. My experiences have been the polar opposite, and I could not have felt more needed through my wifes pregnancies, and child rearing.What Im seeing is a person who is battling with self-esteem issues, and inferiority complexes. I understand how this is prevalent in the male population today, with all the anti-male sentiment and agendas out there, but, unless you support gender role reversal, stand up and be a man first, and a husband and father second.No wife worth her salt will appreciate a winy and effeminate version of a husband who cannot be relied upon to support her unless he is explicitly told what to do.And your wife is not your partner, unless you share a business concern with her.
My wife is pregnant and I don't know how to feel
Talk about being over-dramatic!
New social justice rights limit long-standing freedoms
Your opinion mate, but sadly, you are way off course.The Christian message needs to be heard far and wide.
It's time for civilised countries to follow New Zealand's lead on the death penalty
Premeditated murder is completely different to imposing the death penalty on a convicted criminal as a punishment for his actions. No wonder this country is so confused when the moral compass is spinning out of control. Nobody is willing to stand up and take responsibility, it s far easier to just lock all criminals away, and hope that the problems will somehow go away. You talk about execution of innocents, but, is it better for that innocent person to endure a lifelong incarceration?
Our evolutionary tribalism imperils our species' survival
And when exactly did the dinosaurs die out?