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Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 2018 Providing gold class service Winner to our valued customers Supreme Business of the Year Business Excellence in Multi-Ethnic staff from India, , Japan, Marketing Best Employer of Choice Tonga, Samoa, Philippines and Nepal Raj Pradeep Singh Ashima Singh Shyama Sharma Best Medium-Sized Business Specialists in Sale and Purchase of Property & Business, Leases, Principal Partner Barrister and Solicitor Employment Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, Wills & Trusts, Immigration LLB/BA (Hons.) LLB/MIT/B.Com LLB/ DBM/ BA( Hons) Ashima Singh, Winner of the email: [email protected] Law- all types of visas and appeals (Initial Consultation Free) E: [email protected] E: [email protected]: [email protected] Best Businesswoman of the year 2016 Ph: (09) 2799439 | Level-1, 31 East Tamaki Road, Papatoetoe, 2025 | PO Box 200170, Papatoetoe Central, Auckland 2156 | www.legalassociates.co.nz Charter operators await approval to bring home New Zealanders Venkat Raman “I think that the word should go out unrecorded - but much higher. As I had “Organising flights is urgent, and the ew Zealand Indians, holding from the High Commissioner that there emphasised, we need to know the actual community is quite clear that people passports are would be a charter flight, and then number of New Zealand citizens in India expect to pay for their travel,” he said. disparate to return home, all of people could register their interest,” he who are keen to return to New Zealand, Indeed, the cost factor is now becom- them saying that the situation in said. so that charter flights can be organised ing a little irrelevant. NIndia is scary. Registered Travellers accordingly. People from India are happy to pay The exact number of persons stranded According to RNZ, there are 664 regis- Multicultural New Zealand President whatever it takes to come back. New Zea- in India is not known but an official told tered New Zealand travellers in India. Pancha Narayanan said that charters must land is the safest country in the world. us that there were about 500-600 New The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and be operated and that no one was expecting Zealand citizens. Trade said the actual number was the government to pay for them. “The government has approved the Image from Auckland International Airport Facebook across to have their photo taken in travel of eligible dependents of New front of the Taj Mahal. Many, like Zealand citizens and hence the total must She, went to fulfil family commit- number of people could be about 1200,” ments. Nor are they looking for a he said. handout. They are willing to draw on Health Ministry review facilitate return of Kiwi Indians Her issue then became one of all available funds to secure a flight One operator is understood to have securing a place in quarantine. A to the place they now call home. received approval to operate a charter sleepless night of refreshing her Paucity of flights flight subject to ratification by the Minis- browser eventually yielded a spot As the death toll from Covid sur- try of Health. His application is currently but was soon met with an officious passed the quarter of a million mark under scrutiny. response with a subject heading this week, Kiwis in India are finding We have been receiving an increasing Jocelyn Prasad Migrants protest in New Delhi demanding right to in bold caps: ‘India Suspension of it increasingly difficult to get home. number of phone calls, emails and text return to New Zealand (Source: Facebook) hen my sister-in-law Travel – Voucher Holders.’ There is a paucity of flights and those messages from New Zealander Indians agencies (to whom I had spoken) were flew into Hyderabad in Apparently, because she was in a on offer are often cancelled at short in India demanding immediate action ready to go. late January (2021) to high-risk country, she was deemed notice. Even if a flight proceeds, by the government to bring them back “They as ready as anyone can expect. hold her dying mother’s as ‘not eligible for travel at this time.’ it often leaves from the hotspots home. One of them told me that they will be Whand, daily new cases of Covid-19 Her MIQ voucher would expire in 48 of Delhi or Mumbai, thus putting Disparate to return ready for repatriation flights by the end of in India were tracking at around hours, unless she responded to the travellers from less vulnerable areas “I have aged parents in New Zealand May; but it all depends on the government 14,000, which might seem dramatic email –“with evidence that you do at grave risk. and hence I am eager to return home. I regulations. He said that pressure on the from an Antipodean safe haven but, meet the criterial for travelling.” And if they are lucky enough to get came to India in March 2021 to see my government to make a decision on char- when compared to the 35,000 new Persistence is painful but pays a ticket to New Zealand, navigating a ailing brother. I am really worried not ter flights was building. I would suggest daily cases being recorded in the UK We were confounded. New seemingly unhospitable MIQ system only about my parents but also afraid of that the government might (soon) go into at the time, it was not so astonishing Zealand had lifted its travel ban on remains a sticking point. the Covid situation in India,” Abhishek a more serious stage of consultation on for a country of 1.4 billion. Indians; yet the MIQ system suggest- The New Zealand government said from Mumbai. approving these kinds of charter flights.” Like most of us, she had no idea ed that She was not welcome home. needs to help these vulnerable Satyanarayana, who lives in South Multicultural New Zealand organised that Indian Covid cases would After much scrambling and tena- citizens at a desperate time by either Island rushed to India two months ago a community meeting in on skyrocket. cious enquiry, it was established an working with airlines to secure to see his ailing father who died a day Thursday night to discuss the issue of When she started trying to return email from her confirming that she commercial flights or underwriting after his arrival. He had obtained his operating charter flights from India. to New Zealand in March, there were had a flight (despite having already repatriation flights. It also needs citizenship shortly before his departure Roundabout journey 16,000 new daily cases. This week, as proved this in her initial booking, guarantee MIQ spots to citizens in to India. Following is a new cases stood at 350,000 she was along with supplying passport India when they are able to secure “My employer has told me that if I do Report: still trying to leave. details) and that she had secured her passage home. These measures need not return before the end of May (2021), I It quoted Gurtej Singh, who was at the Matching flight with MIQ MIQ slot. It is easy to imagine though not be expensive, they just require stand the risk of losing my job. My prob- meeting as saying that some people were The issue for New Zealanders try- how others who received this email willingness and time. lem is the MIQ voucher without which I managing to leave, but it was not easy. ing to return from India is twofold: would have given up. New Zealanders in India are cannot board an aircraft. I have already “I know one case where he had to fly trying to get a flight home is almost She is lucky. As I write this, she is desperate to return to home. If the changed my flight twice at substantial to , then to North America and impossible. And if you are lucky somewhere in the airspace between government feels that its obligations cost. I want my government to look after from there made his way to Auckland. enough to get one, securing a slot in Doha and Auckland. But, as extend to protecting its most me. I am a New Zealand citizen,” he said. Commercial airlines remain uncommitted MIQ that marries with your flight is this week budgeted for more than vulnerable citizens, it must act with Radio New Zealand and Newstalk ZB to recommencing flights. I therefore want often not possible. 100 repatriation flights for its urgency. contacted me on Friday, May 14, 2021 to a targeted effort from our authorities to Last weekend, after weeks of stranded citizens, hundreds of Kiwis Jocelyn Prasad is a New Zealand born ask about repatriation flights. arrange charters from India to New Zealand,” searching, She found a flight home remain stuck in India. Indian of Fijian descent. She lives in Charterers ready Sydney, where she is a writer and media he said. via Qatar. These are not people who jetted RNZ quoted me as saying that travel Gurtej said that would be the best solution. adviser.

Nomination Process: 13th Annual Indian Newslink Direct by Entrants; Get into your First Home with as little as Nominations for Individual Categories (14 to 18) by companies and individuals. BUSINESS Nominations by corporates, banks and financial institutions and chartered accountants for deposit* AWARDS companies and individuals with information prescribed in the entry forms available on the Awards website 2021 (www.inliba.com). Completed entries must be 2021 sent by 6 pm on or before Take advantage of record-low interest rates Wednesday, September 15, To know your borrowing capacity 2021 to Call for Entries [email protected] call-Rachna Dave on 0800RACHNA Email: [email protected] Open to all businesses incorporated in Website: www.0800rachna.co.nz New Zealand owned, operated, managed and For more information on Awards, Mobile: 021-02290344 franchised by people of Indian, Pakistani, Terms and Conditions & Toll-Free: 0800RACHNA (0800 722 462) Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan and Nepali origin. Free Workshops, please visit *Subject to lending Terms and Conditions www.indiannewslink.co.nz 2 Homelink MAY 15, 2021 US entry strengthens Call Community Movement Virtual Summit on May 15 The Virtual Summit Ms Arden and Mr Macron will (NZT) with world leaders jointly chair a virtual summit of world leaders on May 15 NZT and May 14 Venkat Raman (CEST) 2021, marking the second he decision of the anniversary of the Christchurch Call administration to join the Report. ‘Christchurch Call Community’ Among the participants will be lead- will undoubtedly strengthen ers of the supporting governments, tech companies and the civil society. Tthe Movement in its efforts to end New Zealand Prime Minister People being escorted out of the Police Cor- Flowers and condolence messages at Al Noor and extremism that is rising and French President don in Christchurch on March 15, 2019 (RNZ Mosque, one of the two places the terrorist went Ms Ardern said that New Zealand (AFP 2019 Anadolu Agency) in many parts of the world. Photo by Simon Rogers) on a shooting spree on March 15, 2019 expects the Call Community to refine Jen Psaki, a Spokesperson for the were fulfilling their commitments its focus, redouble its efforts, and Biden Administration, said on Friday to the Christchurch Call. The Survey agree to a priority work plan for the (May 7, 2021) in Washington DC led to the Christchurch Call Commu- year ahead. that the United States would join the nity Consultation Report. “The inaugural Christchurch Call ‘Christchurch Call.’ Misuse of electronic platforms Community Consultation Report “Countering the use of the internet In their Final Report, Ms Ardern provides the foundation for this work. by terrorists and violent extremists to and Mr Macron said that the misuse Among the priorities that I would like radicalise and recruit is a significant of the internet to promote terrorism to see progressed is a strengthened priority for the United States. Joining and violent extremism is an issue collective ability to manage crises re- the coalition of governments and that transcends borders. lated to terrorist and violent extremist companies that have endorsed the “It reaches into our social content online. Christchurch Call to Action reinforces networks, our communities, and “I would like to see us grow our the need for collective action,” she our families, and has real impacts in shared understanding of algorithmic said in a Statement. the offline world. When a terrorist processes that have the potential She said that the US will join the opened fire in two Mosques in to cause harm, or to radicalise or incite to acts of terrorism and violent Summit (details hereunder) to be held Jacinda Ardern comforting a Muslim in Christchurch on March 16, 2019 Christchurch, New Zealand (on on May 14 CEST (Central European March 15, 2019), 51 Muslim extremism. And to develop positive Summer Time) corresponding to May French President Emmanuel Massacre in which an Australian ter- worshippers lost their lives. Dozens interventions to address these,” she 15 NZT (New Zealand Time). Macron, who has been a staunch rorist gunned down 51 Muslim men, more were seriously injured. The said. Arden, Macron welcome move supporter of the Christchurch Call women and children offering their attack was livestreamed in an Mr Macron said that increased Earlier, under the also welcomed the US decision, saying Friday prayers at two Mosques in attempt to subvert the technology transparency on methods used to administration, the US had rejected that the challenge of the Christchurch Christchurch on March 15, 2019, Ms platforms that we use to connect to moderate harmful online content, the call and refuse to be enlisted as a Call cannot be addressed wholly Ardern had called on world leaders, instead push messages of hate and from companies and governments, member country of the Christchurch within the confines of one country’s mass media giants and the interna- extremist ideology. Left unchecked, will underpin the commitment to up- Call Community. rules and regulations. tional community to get together and this kind of abuse of the internet hold fundamental internet freedoms. New Zealand Prime Minister Ja- “The United States has long been fight terrorism and extremising. risks inciting more real world ter- “A strengthened Call Community cinda Ardern welcomed the decision a critically important ally in shared French President Emmanuel rorist acts,” they said in the Report. is critical to our enduring success. of President Biden, saying that the efforts against terrorism and violent Macron joined the move and the two Among the supporters of the It needs to support and empower US has been “constructive, engaged extremism. Its formal support of the leaders initiated the ‘Christchurch Christchurch Call to Action are var- its members to engage in direct, partner on many Call-related issues Christchurch Call is a welcome exten- Call Community Consultation Report’ ious governments, member-coun- constructive dialogue on issues of since its launch” and that the an- sion of that long-held partnership,” on May 15, 2019. tries of the G20 and G7 Groups, substance, support each other to do nouncement was a “formalisation of he said. The two governments carried out a the Aqaba Process established by better and, where necessary, hold that relationship and a commitment The Christchurch Massacre Survey of the Call Community to de- the Kingdom of Jordan and many each other to account on delivery of for us to work even more closely.” Following the Christchurch termine the ways in which supporters others. the Call,” he said. 13th Annual Indian Newslink BUSINESS AWARDS CATEGORIES 1. Business Excellence in Retail Business 2. Business Excellence in Innovation 3. Business Excellence in Marketing 4. Business Excellence in Customer Service AWARDS 5. Best Employer of Choice 6. Business Excellence in Health & Safety 7. Business Excellence with Ethics and Compliance 8. Business Excellence with Social Responsibility 9. Best Small Business 10. Best Medium Business 2021 2021 11. Best Large Business 12. Business Excellence in International Trade with India (Open to all companies in New Zealand) 13. Business Excellence in International Trade with Fiji NEW (Open to all companies in New Zealand) 14. Best Accountant of the Year 15. Best Young Entrepreneur of the Year Call for Entries 16. Best Financial Advisor (Mortgage) 17. Best Financial Advisor (Insurance) Open to all businesses incorporated in New Zealand owned, 18. Best Businesswoman of the Year Supreme Business of the Year Award operated, managed and franchised by people of Indian, (All entries will be entered for this category) Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan and Nepali origin. Winners will be presented with their Awards at a Nomination Process: Direct by Entrants; Gala Black Tie Dinner on Monday, November 29, 2021, Nominations for Individual Categories (14 to 18) by companies and individuals. details of which will be announced later. Nominations by corporates, banks and financial institutions and chartered accountants for companies and individuals with information prescribed in the entry forms available on the Awards website www.indiannewslink.co.nz. For more information on Awards, Terms and Conditions & Free Workshops, please visit Completed entries must be sent by 6 pm on or before Wednesday, September 15, 2021 www.indiannewslink.co.nz to [email protected]

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sponsoring organisations are not eligible to enter the Awards. MAY 15, 2021 Homelink 3 Expert presents case for and against Regional Fuel Tax Switching to electric vehicles More than three-quarters of New Zealand’s electricity is generated from renewable sources, which Dr Ranjana Gupta provides Auckland with considera- ble advantages to reduce emissions Editor’s Note: While the imposi- from transport by switching to tion of Regional Fuel Tax (RFT) was electric vehicles, private or public. a topic of heated debate among Currently, only wealthier people Aucklanders, there has been can afford to buy the relatively ex- little articulation on the subject- a pensive electric cars, so the number dispassionate view that would of electric vehicles on Auckland throw light on the advantages and roads is low. otherwise of such a levy. Amidst My study suggests that, to ambiguities and rhetoric comes mitigate pollution and to encourage the following article by Dr Ranjana Is Fuel Tax a panacea for Auckland’s increasing traffic gridlocks? the use of public transport, the gov- Gupta of AUT as an educator. ernment should consider imposing Hopefully, the article (which is a My attempts to analyse the butional impacts shows that transport system, but it is vital congestion charges or punitive tolls redacted version of her in-depth reasons for the introduction of RFT the RFT has negative impact on to have contentious but crucial for single occupancy vehicles which study), will help you understand within Auckland under the Land non-transport fuel users, such as conversations about how we will ensure that the “polluter” will the issues and concerns. Transport Management Amend- those in the farming, construction, collectively understand and use the pay the full marginal cost of their ment Act 2018 and its subsequent and manufacturing industries and planned new roads most efficiently actions that affect the environment. distributional impact. the compliance costs of a rebate for public transport, active trans- Standfirst: COVID-19 has upended The study supports that the our daily lives, the way we commute Time and Productivity loss system for such businesses are port (higher vehicle occupancy) and easiest way to reduce single-person is changing, workers commute into Examining the traffic congestion high. It showed that due to the lack the private automobile. car use is to assign the full costs the city at varied start and finish costs and environmental and fuel of fuel-efficient vehicles driven by Given that, it is suggested that of its use to the car and driver. times, companies are allowing em- taxation, my research shows that lower-income households, the fuel consideration should be given to Additionally, to manage the existing ployees to work from home at other time lost due to congestion has a tax is regressive and disproportion- strengthening vehicle standards for infrastructure more efficiently times but we still continue to pay significant impact on Aucklanders’ ately impacts lower-income groups. fuel economy and GHG emissions. and from a policy perspective, the costs associated with the Regional productivity and exposure to The RFT scheme was implement- Further it is suggested that for the research asserted that designing Fuel Tax-RFT (as it is incorporated transport-related air pollution ed to generate significant revenue, general public’s tolerance towards an RFT based on the social cost into the price when fuel is pur- exacerbates social costs. which has been earmarked for RFT, the needs to of externality (which is the direct chased) despite not contributing to At the same time, the existing public transport and infrastructure communicate the functioning, impact of rising numbers of cars Auckland’s congestion at peak times. environmental and fuel taxes in projects within Auckland to reduce and showing the distributional on the road) would be the right The design of fuel or other taxes New Zealand are not achieving the congestion and pollution. These impact, of the RFT to the people of approach and would undoubtedly and the negative externality cost desired effect on congestion costs projects included a light rail from Auckland using evidence such as make a significant difference to our considerations in their implemen- due to relatively narrow tax base. the Auckland waterfront to Mt reduced congestion, air pollution, environment. tation are crucial determinants of The short-run inelastic fuel de- Roskill. However, in the May 2020 and health costs, improved atmos- their overall success says Dr Ranjana mand suggests that environmental budget, the Labour-led government pheric visibility and quality of life. Gupta, Senior Taxation Lecturer, policies, such as a carbon tax and announced that due to the Covid-19 Additionally, to correct exter- Auckland University of Technology fuel tax, to reduce fuel consumption crisis the Auckland light rail project nalities, the political parties need (AUT) in a detailed study. The follow- and to control CO2 emissions may would be postponed. to consider and inform the public Dr Ranjana Gupta is Senior Taxation Lec- ing is an extract of her 22-page Paper turer, Auckland University of Technology not help in achieving sustainable Collective understanding critical about their policies regarding cov- (AUT) based in Auckland. The above is an entitled ‘The Imposition of Regional environmental goals and mitigate Taxing fuels to reduce oil use and ering external costs and efficient extract of her 22-page Paper entitled ‘The Fuel Tax in New Zealand and its the traffic congestion problem. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions development of a programme to Imposition of Regional Fuel Tax in New Advancement’ published recently. Disproportional impact could have important co-benefits build Auckland as a ‘sustainable Zealand and its Advancement’ published My study found that distri- of raising revenue for the Auckland city’. recently. Email: [email protected]

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House last night. It did not meet the standards I expect. Nor do I consider it gets into deeper trouble to have met the needs of the victim in this situation. The Speaker acknowledg- are made against,” she said. es he did not meet his own standards Unruly scenes in the House, Ms Ardern said that she had spoken PM rebukes, Opposition wants either. I also believe the behaviour of to Mr Mallard and that he retained her opposition members was inappropriate. him to go overall confidence. Venkat Raman Issues of this serious nature should Serious concerns not be litigated in Parliament in such a arliament Speaker Trevor Mallard “However, I have expressed serious manner. It was wrong,” she said. sparked another outburst in the concerns to him about the manner With inputs from RNZ Debating Chamber last night in which he conducted himself in the (Tuesday, May 4, 2021), when Phe accused a former staffer of sexual Business Awards Free Workshops assault. Parliament Speaker Trevor Mallard Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (RNZ Picture by Phil Smith) (INL File Photo) e invite you, your colleagues, National Party MPs Chris Bishop and associates, employees, called for his resig- Wfriends- everyone who is keen nation yet again saying that their Party on entering the 13th Annual Indian has lost confidence in him as a Speaker, Newslink Business Awards (INLBA) to while the issue took another dramatic the First Free Virtual Workshop to be turn today (Wednesday, May 5, 2021) held from 2 pm to 4 pm on Tuesday, issued a statement rebuking Mr Mallard May 18, 2021. The Second and Third for his behaviour in Parliament. Workshops will be held on Tuesday, Business 12. Business Excellence in National Party Leader June 15 and July 13, 2021 at 2 pm. International Trade with India (Open has consistently said that she had lost First Workshop for the 13th Annual to all companies in New Zealand) 13. confidence in Mr Mallard and that he Indian Newslink Business Awards on Business Excellence in International should be removed from the Speaker’s May 18, 2021. The Our Business Awards Trade with Fiji (Open to all companies role. National MPs Chris Bishop Michael Woodhouse Programme is open to all companies in New Zealand) 14. Best Accountant of and individuals of Indian, Fiji Indian the Year 15. Best Young Entrepreneur Allegation and apology the defamation case, after he had told this Parliament led by this disgrace of a Last year, Mr Mallard had raised a and other Indian, Pakistani, Bangla- of the Year 16. Best Financial Advisor a Parliamentary Committee that he Speaker, I think we will look back with deshi, Sri Lankan and Nepali origin. controversy, when he accused a former (Mortgage) 17. Best Financial Advisor thought that he had made a mistake. shame. That 10 minute contribution will Chip Dawson, Chairman of the staffer of rape. It resulted in a defama- (Insurance) 18. Best Businesswoman of “He told us at the Committee meeting probably be the thing that sinks him as Independent Panel of Judge of INLBA the Year. Supreme Business of the Year tion settlement costing taxpayers more that he knew that he made a mistake the Speaker,” he said. will conduct the Workshop and explain Award (All entries will be entered for than $330,000 and an apology. within 24 hours, and the question is why Prime Minister rebukes Mallard ‘How to file a good entry.’ The Workshop this category) But Mr Mallard accused the man of he then did not clean up the matter im- Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern issued will be hosted by Indian Newslink on You can seek the support of anyone sexual assault last night, creating an mediately, and instead spent 18 months a lengthy, strongly-worded statement Microsoft Teams. known to you in filling the forms. uproar in Parliament, by dismissing fighting a legal battle that has ended up that left no on in doubt that she was Please register by email to venkat@ Professional assistance from the claims by the National MPs that he had costing the taxpayer over $330,000 and angry over Mr Mallard’s behaviour but indiannewslink.co.nz following persons, independent of destroyed the man’s life. rising,” Mr Bishop said. said his job was safe. Awards Categories: 1. Business Indian Newslink and the Panel of Judges “That man’s life was destroyed when Mr Mallard said that he had “The serious issue of alleged sexual Excellence in Retail Business 2. Business is available to entrants, who should he sexually assaulted a woman. That is apologised for the mistake but it did not assault and harassment at Parliament Excellence in Innovation 3. Business negotiate terms and fees directly. what did it. I will support the woman “erase the face that there were serious was poorly managed and inappropriate- Excellence in Marketing 4. Business Contact Details: Excellence in Customer Service 5. and what she said, I will support the allegations from staff members that had ly politicised last night. The tone of the 1. Georgia Saxon, The Awards Shop, Best Employer of Choice 6. Business investigation that found that he seriously to be taken seriously.” debate did not reflect well on Parliament Hawkes Bay; Mobile: 021-715479; Email: Excellence in Health & Safety 7. Business [email protected]; Website: assaulted her and I will support the Mr Bishop told the House that Mr as a whole. Any investigation of claims Police and their investigation and the Excellence with Ethics and Compliance www.awardshop.co.nz Mallard should be removed as the of sexual assault should be in a manner 8. Business Excellence with Social 2. Manish Tanna, Vmindurbiz Services, results of that investigation,” he said. Speaker. that takes a victim-centric approach. Mr Bishop and Mr Woodhouse Responsibility 9. Best Small Business 10. Auckland; Mobile: 021-822772 “When we look back on this It also needs to include principles of Best Medium Business 11. Best Large Email: [email protected] questioned Mr Mallard as to why he period as a tawdry, sordid period in natural justice for the person allegations continued to mount a defence against

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Mortgage services Insurance Home loans Life, Trauma Call us today Construction loans Medical/Health 0800 21 22 23 Refinances and restructures General Ground Floor Top ups & debt consolidation Business 86 Highbrook Drive Commercial & Business loans Income Protection Highbrook MAY 15, 2021 Homelink 5 New Covid-19 Vaccination Clinic opens in Birkenhead, Auckland But first for border workers, will be people with underlying household, MIQ staff and health conditions and older Maori and Pacific people before health workers the general public are invited Supplied Content (Edited) for their vaccinations. Waitemata DHB Asian Health he first Community Service Manager Grace Ryu said Covid-19 Vaccination Waitemata DHB Partner Ngati Whatua that the government has been Clinic in Auckland’s blessing the Clinic (Picture Supplied) very clear in saying there was Northshore opened at plenty of vaccine for everyone TBirkenhead this morning (May and no one would miss out on 10, 2021), marking another their opportunity. important milestone in the “We know that people gen- rollout of the programme to erally are keen to receive their protect the public. vaccinations and that many Converted from a former A view of the Birkenhead Clinic from our Asian communities warehouse, it is located at the (Picture supplied) will be wanting to know when Highbury Shopping Centre at Convenient for Asian it will be their turn. We are 1 Corner of Highbury Bypass ethnicities methodically working through and Birkenhead Avenue and Dr Bramley said that the the national priority groups. operated by the Waitemata concentration of people of Please be patient and you will (DHB). Asian ethnicity is even higher be contacted when we begin Easy location for 1000 per day on the North Shore where vaccinating your group in the The facility will eventually more than half of the people in coming weeks,” she said. be capable of vaccinating up some suburbs identify as Asian. Visit only with appointment to 1000 people a day, with 10 “Therefore, this Clinic will be Ms Ryu said that people specially trained vaccinators especially important for Asian should avoid coming to the working at-a-time to provide communities based north of Birkenhead Clinic without an first and second doses. the Harbour Bridge,” he said. appointment so that the team Waitemata DHB Chief Exec- Thanking the DHB’s iwi part- can continue to efficiently vacci- utive Dr Dale Bramley said that ner, Ngati Whatua for leading nate those who have a booking the high-profile location would the opening of the Birkenhead scheduled based on the national make it easy for the public to Clinic, he said that it will serve sequencing framework. receive their vaccinations when people of all ethnicities on the The DHB will also be working they become due. North Shore. with The Fono to support the “As this is the first large The DHB is following na- opening of a second West vaccination Clinic to open on tional sequencing guidance to Auckland Vaccination Clinic the North Shore, it will serve a ensure those most likely to be later this week at NorthWest large and diverse population. In exposed or at-risk to Covid-19 Shopping Centre, located at particular, it will be of benefit receive their vaccination first. 1/7 Fred Taylor Drive, Massey, to members of our large and Initial focus groups Auckland. rapidly growing Asian commu- The initial focus of the This follows the opening of a nity, which makes up 28 per Birkenhead Clinic will be on Clinic in Henderson last week. cent of our district’s population border workers and household The DHB operates the Clinic in of around 650,000 people,” he contacts, MIQ staff and health partnership with Te Whanau O said. workers, including GPs. Next Waipareira Trust.

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Start July. Apply now | manukau.ac.nz *Find out more at manukau.ac.nz/earn-more MKT245_5g32 6 Educationlink MAY 15, 2021 Fundamental changes needed to lift sinking productivity We are now at the smarter and employing better a strong argument for importing Facilitating FDI flow bottom of quartile of technology and plant and more intellectual capital through We would also like to see a equipment. a change in our immigration change in stance towards foreign OECD Improving New Zealand’s settings. direct investment. productivity has proved elusive The importance of knowledge We should be activity seeking to for decades and we now and technology cannot be under- attract people with the resources rank unfortunately amongst stated, especially if we want to and connections to grow our the bottom quartile of OECD accelerate innovation and improve existing businesses substantially countries. productivity. with a focus on exports or under- Turbocharging opportunities Strengthening infrastructure take R&D in New Zealand. This ndian businesses make a To turn this around We would like to see a more capital can make a meaningful significant contribution to there needs to be a greater enlightened view around the difference to a small nation like New Zealand. focus from the government on role infrastructure plays in our New Zealand, through enabling Many face the challenge fundamental changes to our recovery. Currently, projects are greater investment in wellbeing Iof how to achieve greater education system, stronger referenced to the number of jobs initiatives, funding infrastructure, productivity – and this doesn’t incentives for research and that will be created during their creating jobs and investment in mean working longer, but development, and encouraging development period. our regions. The focus should instead be on Supporting Start-Ups the longer term economic stimu- Another step is to encourage lation these projects can enable large New Zealand companies to not only through job creation but better support smaller, strategical- also by helping to create a more ly-aligned start-ups that generate efficient and productive economy. new innovative businesses and greater capital intensity within agility needed to capitalise on our There is an opportunity for technologies. We also need to businesses. natural advantages (especially our the Crown and local government better commercialise ‘warehoused’ We also need create an environ- Covid-free domestic status), New to build infrastructure and fund intellectual property, especially ment that nurtures the growth of Zealand can achieve far more some of this through recycling that sitting inside our research globally successful businesses that if there is effective partnering existing infrastructure. institutes and universities. will fund the innovation required between the public and private We need to encourage busi- Improving our productivity to succeed at scale. sectors, drawing on the best of nesses to get on board automation means that we can produce New Zealand has many exciting both. and mechanisation, underpinned more satisfying and higher areas of proven expertise. This Education plays an important by good digital networks. paying jobs and will help provide includes Agtech, Fintech, Medtech role. The way Kiwis are educated That means using tax rules to a better standard of for New and Cleantech. The question is, will be vital to accelerating our incentives businesses to invest in Zealanders. how do we turbo-charge commer- recovery over the long term. productivity-enhancing plant and While the reality is there is no cial opportunities in these sectors? Young New Zealanders are equipment. ‘quick fix’ in terms of reversing our Under Covid, the government falling behind their international During the last election, we said productivity decline, it is probably and its various agencies have counterparts. This is in terms that we would allow new plant the greatest long term impediment found themselves in unusual of their preparedness to enter a and equipment up to a value of on our economic aspirations. and unprecedented situations, complex technology orientated $150,000 to be written off in one If we want to be a competitive grappling with decisions on a daily and dynamic world that demands year rather than depreciated over country in the future, we need basis that directly and immediate- a much higher level of critical 8-12 years, as is allowed under to be making changes now and ly impact how businesses operate thinking skills. current tax rules. This has the across a broad range of areas. and how people go about their In addition to growing our potential to deliver a step change Andrew Bayly is elected Member of daily lives. domestic intellectual capital in manufacturing capability, Parliament from Port Waikato and National Party’s Shadow Treasurer and Public-Private Partnerships organically through investment increased productivity and process Spokesperson for Infrastructure and To provide the innovation and in our education sector, there is efficiency. Statistics Fair Pay Agreement System returns Collective Bargaining Source Content orkplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Wood has announced that the Wgovernment will introduce a new Fair Pay Agreement System. He said that it will bring together employers and unions within a sector to bargain for minimum terms and conditions for all employees in that industry or occupation. “The proposed system will Image from MBIE Website include support for bargaining A Ministry of Business, parties to help them navigate the Innovation and Employment bargaining process and reach (MBIE) notification said that an outcome, as well as processes while the economy has grown to ensure compliance. Any over the last 30 years, wages have union can initiate the Fair Pay lagged behind increases in labour Agreement process as long as they productivity. It said that the can demonstrate support from highest earners have seen their wages increase at twice the rate either 10% or 1,000 employees in Michael Wood, Workplace Relations the proposed industry or occu- and Safety Minister of middle-income earners. pation. Bargaining for a Fair Pay additional funds where low union Low Collective Bargaining Agreement can also be initiated or industry body membership “Less than one-in-five New via a public interest test in an makes coordination difficult. Zealanders are represented in industry or occupation where “They can also seek a bargain- collective bargaining; that is employment issues exist, such ing support person to assist with down from around 70% three as low pay or limited bargaining the negotiations. Funding support decades ago. There is increasing power,” he said. is based on four Fair Pay Agree- evidence of a ‘race to the bottom’ Financial Support ments each year. If more than four in some sectors, where some busi- The government also Fair Pay Agreements are initiated nesses compete for contracts by announced financial support for per year, support may need to be reducing wages or employment the system. rationed or prioritised. It will be conditions,” the notification said. This includes (1) $250,000 each possible for parties to MBIE said that the govern- a year for three years for the New through the process without this ment’s Fair Pay Agreement Zealand Council of Trade Unions support,” he said. system aims to address these and BusinessNZ to support Legislation to Parliament challenges by bringing together their role in coordinating Fair Mr Wood said that a Bill will be employers and unions within a Pay Agreements (2) Identifying introduced to Parliament later in sector to bargain for minimum bargaining parties and helping to the year. standards for all employees in raise awareness about Fair Pay People will have the opportuni- that industry or occupation. The Agreements and the bargaining ty to comment on the Bill during proposed system will include sup- process (3) Giving the opportunity the Select Committee process. port for bargaining parties to help for bargaining sides to receive Contractors are not currently them navigate the negotiation a contribution of up to $50,000 included in the system. Work is process and reach an outcome, towards the cost of bargaining. beginning shortly to address this as well as processes to ensure compliance. Mr Wood said that NZCTU and and contractors will be included in Source: Ministry of Business, Innovation BusinessNZ may be able to seek a future amendment to the Act. and Employment MAY 15, 2021 Educationlink 7 Mental Health E-learning for workplace launched The Free package aims to help towards New Zealanders with workplace cultures hold financial and prejudice towards people with Kiwis overcome mental stress mental distress or illness in the and workplace culture incentives. mental distress or illness. workplace. Over a third of New Zea- Three Learning Modules It commenced in 1997 with John landers have experienced mental The E-learning package consists Kirwan, Denise L-Estrange Corbet distress, and of those people, 19% of three, one-hour, easy-to-follow and other key New Zealanders have reported being discriminated E-learning modules with download- showing their support in TV adver- against. 50% of mental distress able resources and templates. The tisements and has grown to develop discrimination occurs in the modules are supported by videos notable public awareness campaigns, workplace. and scenarios from non-office-based community projects and research. Supplied Content The E-learning package builds settings, and represent a range of ex- The Like Minds, Like Mine on the first series of the Mental periences including Maori, Pasifika, programme is funded by the New he Mental Health Foundation Health Foundation’s Open Minds Rainbow and Gen Z employees and Zealand Government. has launched a free E-learn- resources. It focuses on helping people who have experienced mental The Health Promotion Agency is ing package to help people people managers in outdoor and distress or illness in the workplace. the lead operational agency for the managers and workplace indoor workplaces understand why You can start the free E-learning programme, with strategic responsi- Twellbeing professionals talk about opening the conversation about package from www.learnmhf.nz bility held by the Ministry of Health. mental health in the workplace. mental health in the workplace, About Like Minds, Like Mine The Mental Health Foundation has Titled ‘Open Minds,’ the E-learning supporting employees with mental Like Minds, Like Mine was one of led the Open Minds programme as package focuses on how to include, distress through the tough times the first national programmes in the one of its contracted partners. support and prevent discrimination and creating mentally-healthy world to challenge discrimination Contractors and Consultants spared of pay rise freeze Phil Pennington about contractor payments in 2017 that led to It had updated how its procurement panels alaries of public servants is being a tightening of the rules and more transparent worked last December and “will be benchmark- frozen for three years, but not the records. ing consultant rates as part of this refresh.” rates that the sector pays to thousands Despite those changes, annual reviews The panels now covered more fields and “our of contractors and consultants. provided to RNZ did not always include detailed oversight and engagement with this market has SA freeze directive issued by the Public Ser- information on contractor rates. also grown,” Mr Bunny said. vice Commission recently does not mention The big spenders He said that it varies between agencies contractors, who can seek an increase every The Ministry of Education, Ministry of their rules on re-employing staff who leave, as two years if it is “reasonable and justified.” Defence, and NZ Transport are big spenders contractors or consultants. By contrast, public servants on more than on consultants, but provided only contract “MBIE, as good practice, has a stand-down $60,000 must prove “exceptional circum- totals and not rates, or did not specify if the rate period between a period of employment and stances” to get a rise. Those on more than published was hourly or daily, in their 2017 to beginning any contract work with the same $100,000 will get no raise for three years. 2018 reviews. organisation. This is intended to avoid perverse Public Service Minister said The Ministry of Health review similarly lacked incentives,” Mr Bunny said. that the government was keeping an eye out Public Service Minister Chris Hipkins detailed information on contractor rates. Rate rise snapshot to make sure contractor rates did not go up. (RNZ Photo by Dom Thomas) Defence gave no hourly or daily rates in its RNZ comparisons of random contractor, “We have better, more detailed infor- 2019 to 2020 review. consultant and professional services rates from mation now on what the public service is MBIE said that as well as other controls on annual reviews to Parliament spending on contractors and consultants, rates, “competitive tension also applies.” Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employ- and if there is any increase in that space, The core public agencies were able to opt out ment: Average $128 per hour, up 7% since 2017 then we will certainly be monitoring that of the All-of-Government contracts only “under to 2018 very, very closely to make sure that that exceptional circumstances,” Building, Resources New Zealand Police: $126 per hour, up 5% doesn’t happen,” he said. and Markets Deputy Chief Executive Chris Internal Affairs Department: $160 per hour, Tracked, or not? Bunny said in a statement. up 9% RNZ requested figures for the annual In some other contracts, consumer price Justice Department: $127 per hour, up 5% percentage rises in contractor rates from the index inflation rises were allowed if requested Phil Pennington is a Reporter at Radio New Zealand. by the provider. The above Report has been published under a special Public Service Commission and the Ministry agreement with www.rnz.co.nz of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), which is leading the monitoring. Neither provided figures. An RNZ comparison of more than 500 Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes hourly and daily rates showed on average (RNZ Photo by Dom Thomas) contractors earned $137 an hour, a rise of 7% in two years. higher at some non-core agencies, such as % Average public sector pay is $40 an hour, police and New Zealand Transport, in which which has risen slightly more than 7% but directives to reduce contractor spending from a much lower base. carry less force. off Contracts ranged from $25 an hour for Procurement System 30 filing, to $708 an hour for work on digital Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes WALLPAPER identities at the Internal Affairs Department, said the service was already addressing and $500 an hour fees for facial recognition contractor and consultant rates using the services. procurement system. See the full collection at your local Resene ColorShop today! Contractors face additional costs com- Measures used to ensure “no inappropriate pared to employees and have less security. increases” included limits on hourly and Discount off the normal retail price at Resene owned ‘No inappropriate increases’ daily rates for all of government contracts, More than $1 billion a year is spent on he said. ColorShops and participating resellers until 8 June 2021. contractors at 30 departments, and much Many government procurement rules Excludes wall decals, WallPrint and clearance items. more at scores of non-core agencies. changed in 2019. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Overall, spending on contractors has “Price increases are approved only by slowed since the government initiated a the NZ Government Procurement every clampdown in 2017 to 2018 and lifted a two years, and only if the increases are resene.co.nz/colorshops cap on public service employee numbers reasonable and justified by the provider,” Mr imposed by the National-led government. Hughes told RNZ. But spending is up in real terms, and much MBIE was at the heart of controversy

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Airport Oaks 09 255 5500 Manukau 09 263 5555 Henderson 09 836 5555 07 577 0011 8 Fijilink MAY 15, 2021 Be prepared for a long haul, warns Health Chief as Covid cases rise Venkat Raman cause of action,” he said. The Ministry of Health has advised Economic recovery order closure, restrictions on According to the publication, Dr Fong that due to the steadily rising number of Dr Fong said that the difference movement of people, shut down said that a more sustained lockdown Covid cases across Viti Levu, the borders between a crowded shop and the safety of non-essential businesses and will require a more strategic approach of all six containment areas; Lautoka, of one’s own home should be obvious to strict vigilance on public places and after a year’s experience, there is a Nadi, Rakiraki, Lami, Suva and Nausori, everyone. Bare among the stringent measures that much greater understanding of the virus were being maintained. “We cannot expect our economy to the Fijian government has been obliged and a range of tools available to fight it Constant review recover if we shut entire industries for to take over the past few weeks as including stronger testing Fiji Sun further reported Dr Fong weeks on end. Some of those jobs, par- Covid-19 cases continue to rise in this Health and Medical Services Permanent capacity and the Care Fiji App. having said that confirmation of cases of ticularly in manufacturing, may never Secretary Dr James Fong South Pacific Nation. “Future lockdowns, should they be unknown origin indicated that the virus come back. Businesses, organisations, After one year of community-free needed, will be targeted and active. They could still be present in six areas. communities and individuals are all transmission, Fiji is experiencing the will be targeted because the lockdown “My teams and I sit down every day together in this campaign. All of us are fear of the Virus again as each day area will be defined as narrowly as to go over how we are managing the only as strong as our weakest link,” he brings with it fresh cases of people possible. And they will be active because nation’s Covid-19 containment strategy. I said. testing positive. we will endeavour to permit the broad- encourage every household and commu- Dr Fong said that adherence to all The Fijian government has been est range of movement and economic nity to spend at least one day per week -safe measures, everywhere in Fiji among a few successful stories of con- activity possible, in bubbles that mitigate reviewing how their group or bubble at every level of society was the only taining Covid-19 but the past fortnight widespread transmission of the virus,” and manage the risks of this outbreak. I sustainable way to manage this crisis. he said. call on all Fijians to take some time, talk Celebrate Eid at Home has shown the tricky nature of the virus Police officers at Momi Junction in Nadi and vulnerability of people. (Photo for Fiji Sun by Mereleki Nai) Dr Fong said that the government was through the schedules and routines of Fiji Muslim League President Hafiz Curfews and Lockdown measures keen to ensure that essential services the people who are within their bubbles’ Khan has asked Muslims to celebrate the asked the people to believe only the Health and Medical Services Perma- continued to operate and as many busi- or share their bubbles,” he said. ensuing Eid Al Fitr at homes with just official information being put out by nent Secretary Dr James Fong has told nesses as possible to remain open. “Dr Fong called on parents to talk with families. him and his Ministry. his fellow Fijians to be ‘prepared for Stay at home, please their children about how the virus could He said that with the Covid-19 He also appealed to the people not all types of action that the government He asked people not to remain in their spread. He said that the government was restrictions on social gathering in place, to resort to panic-buying or hoard may be obliged to take to contain the homes and not visit friends or relatives. explaining the steps taken because it no visitors should be allowed home and non-perishable food items and goods Virus and stop its spread.’ It is now mandatory for people to wanted Fijians to understand. I request no one should visit others in their homes because of possibilities of lockdown. “We should perhaps be prepared wear facemasks while moving out of people tuning in for our announcements or elsewhere. The Fiji Sun quoted him as saying for the long haul. Given the ways the their homes, he said. to help spread the messages faster than “I understand that the restrictions that Fijians should be prepared for all cases are rising, I cannot take away the “Whatever step the government the virus spreads itself. You do not need also apply to the Northern Division even eventualities. possibility that we may have to continue takes - whether it is to legally mandate a medical degree to understand why though there is no case. It is understand- Strategic Approach this operation for a very long time. We mask-wearing or the use of the Care Fiji it is important to wear masks or wash able that some places are in lockdown “This is the reason I talk the way I may have to enforce another 24-hour App, or even re-introducing a 24-hour your hands. If you can turn your phone and all places of worship are closed,” Mr talk. I do not want to be committed to curfew type of lockdown,” he said. curfew, Fiji’s success will ultimately on, you can install the Care Fiji App and Khan said. one direction but I want you to be open Dr Fong appealed to the media not come down to the diligence and the keep the Bluetooth turned on. It is very He said that people should pray in in your preparation for all types of to spread false news and rumours and vigilance of the public,” Dr Fong said. simple,” Fiji Sun said. their homes. Rotuman Community Language Week from Sunday Fun-filled activities fak ‘ata, fak foro, ‘os a’häe ma years, continued to and its nearby islets and by Fiji as a dependency. including cultural haikainagaga” or “The four celebrate our culture in is located in the middle The Rotuman programmes from pillars of well-being: spiritual, New Zealand. We thank of the Pacific Ocean, language is listed on May 9 to 16, 2021 physical, psychological and them for keeping our about 500 kms north of the UNESCO List of social connections” will be customs and traditions Fiji, and 500 kms west Endangered Languages Venkat Raman the theme of the Language relevant,” she said. of Wallis & Futuna. as “Definitely Endan- Week in consonance with the About Rotuma and It is described as an gered.” ew Zealand’s focus on the wellbeing of our Rotuman ‘untouched paradise’ For more informa- Rotuman community Nation and communities,” Rotuman people are with some of the tion, please call Rachel has announced that N she said. a separate ethnic group world’s most pristine Maio on 021-2559956, its Language Week 2021 will The Rotuman Showcase with their own distinct and beautiful beaches. Victoria Molia (General be held from May 9 to May Ms Mario said that ARFGI language, culture and Rotuma was annexed Treasurer) on 021- 16, 2021. will celebrate the Rotuman identity, and originate by the British on May 1556670 or Tupou Ma- Four Pillars of Wellbeing language and culture with from the Polynesian 13, 1881 (‘Rotuma Day’). fileo (Deputy Treasurer) Rachel Mario, Chair- a Rotuman showcase at the valuable taonga. We invite Rotuman. We pay tribute Island of Rotuma. Although Rotuma is on 021-0402334. person of the Auckland Auckland War Memorial all Kiwis to come and join to our elders and leaders, Rotuma consists of its own nation, it is Email: [email protected] Rotuman Fellowship Group Museum on Saturday, May us and celebrate being who have, for the last 35 the island of Rotuma currently administered Incorporated (ARFGI), which 15, 2021. is organising the event, said The celebration is being that it would be the first in hosted by the recently-setup a series of Pacific Language world’s first New Zealand Weeks to be celebrated in Rotuman Community Centre. Facebook’s campaign to combat misinformation New Zealand this year. It is a fully community-led As well the Rotuman initiative led by ARFGI. Supplied Content Showcase, the Programme Ms Mario said that it has acebook launched on will include Sunday’s been a challenge to keep the Closing Church Service Thursday, April 15, Rotuman language alive. 2021, a public education with the Ate Fak Rotuma (a “Language is what makes traditional feast served on campaign to help people us who we are and is part of Fin Fiji learn how to identify and banana leaves, with people our culture and identity. It is combat health misinformation. seated on the floor). our duty to preserve this in- “Tutur häk ne mäür lelei: Three key factors The campaign, which will run for five weeks in Fiji includes graphics and videos that will run in English, Fijian Hindi and Fijian iTaukei, and aims to sup- port local users with three key Mia Garlick Director of Public Policy behaviours: (1) Awareness: Be for Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Misinformation Campaign marked as false by third party Islands, Facebook informed that misinformation The public education cam- fact checkers. When people see exists (2) Investigation: Find out what they are seeing against paign on misinformation will warning labels, about 95% of more to confirm if the informa- official public health resources,” commence for 5 weeks from the time they do not go on to tion is indeed false (3) Action: she said. today (15 April). To learn more view the original content. Visit the local health authority to Ms Garlick said that Facebook about the campaign, visit Facebook’s Covid-19 Informa- get accurate information will continue to work with www.fightcovidmisinfo.com tion Centre is available in Fiji. Facebook’s Director of health experts including the www.fightcovidmisinfo.com/ Facebook partners with Public Policy for Australia, New World Health Organisation and fijian-hindi 80 fact-checking partners Zealand and Pacific Islands Mia local partners. www.fightcovidmisinfo.com/ around the world to reduce Garlick said that the company “We want to make sure that fijian-itaukei the distribution of other is committed to connect people we have the right policies in Globally, Facebook has spammy, sensational content to reliable information and place to reduce the spread of connected over two billion like clickbait and engagement give them the tools to make harmful Covid-19 misinforma- people to resources from health bait– which can coincide with informed decisions about tion on our platform. Through- authorities through the misinformation. the information they see on out the pandemic, Facebook has Covid-19 Information Centre In the Oceanic region, includ- Facebook. worked closely with the World and removed more than 12 ing Fiji, Facebook partners with About Covid-19 and Vaccine Health Organisation to direct million pieces of harmful Australian “For this campaign, we are people to authoritative Covid-19 misinformation about Covid-19 (AAP) and Agence France-Presse focusing our efforts further to information, and to do more and approved vaccines from its (AFP). When they fact-check target Covid-19 and Vaccine re- to identify and take action to platforms. something as false, Facebook lated misinformation, ensuring remove incorrect claims about Facebook has also put warn- dramatically reduces its that Fijians are able to scrutinise the virus,” she said. ing labels over 167 million posts distribution. MAY 15, 2021 Businesslink 9

the government makes on the relationship seems to be supportive We need a clearer vision of without hurting of China’s position and unaccepting unlikely to be expelled from the the dragon to characterise the current of any criticism of it. Naïve, inexpe- arrangement, even if we do not relationship between New Zealand rienced, foolish – call it what you comply with the current demands to and China as our Foreign Minister may – that is not helping to advance broaden its scope. did recently, looks like meaningless New Zealand’s position in any way in But that does not make the waffle, even to those skilled in the art the eyes of other longer-term friends issue of China and how to deal of diplomatic double-speak. and allies. he government is right to resist with it any less difficult for us. The The right to self-assertion Need for a new approach attempts to turn the Five Eyes prevailing Western view, heightened As an independent nation, New New Zealand can still continue Intelligence sharing Agreement into considerably during the Trump years, Zealand has every right to form its to play its part as a member of the a wider political alliance. that China is now less a force for own views about its relationship with Five Eyes Agreement and progress THowever, given the growing disposition stability than a potential enemy poses China, and to progress those as best its wider relationship with China, of some its partners, it is going to become real problems for a country like ours, we see fit. if it wants, but it just needs to stop increasingly difficult for it to continue to now so dependent on China for our We do need to be careful though appearing so loudly partisan about do so. economic prosperity. that in doing so we do not turn a it. There will inevitably be challenges The United States, Britain and their Delicate position with China blind eye to everything China does. to our position; that is the nature of ever-trusty pet Australia are becoming A Virtual Meeting of the Ministers of 5 Eyes Countries Clockwise Since the conclusion of the Its treatment of its Uighur minority the course of international relations; from top Priti Patel (UK), Andrew Little (New Zealand) more and more focused on what a rapidly China-New Zealand Free Trade is a case in point. There appear to be but our primary role should be (Australia), Bill Blair (Canada), William Barr (USA) and Ken Cuccinel- Agreement in 2008 China has become obvious breaches of human rights developing China is likely to mean for li (USA) held on June 17, 2020 (Home Ministry UK Picture) working to reduce those challenges, future Pacific and ultimately global our largest trading partner in goods occurring here, and New Zealand’s not aggravating them by continually security. More benign Five Eyes partners and second largest trading partner continued silence, given our overall drawing attention to our increasing like New Zealand and Canada are being overall. No New Zealand government approach to upholding international dependence on China the way we are pressured to join their increasingly activist is going to deliberately put that human rights is simply not credible. at present. Quiet diplomacy rather stance against the resurgent China, and arrangement at risk, given the wider Relations with Taiwan than loud-hailer virtue signalling is to make the Five Eyes Agreement more of implications for our way of life. Similarly with Taiwan, another the far preferable course to follow an alliance than an intelligence sharing It was easier for New Zealand to important New Zealand trade here. arrangement. resist the “for us or against us” stance partner. As a fellow small nation Right now, New Zealand should Extending the original scope on China during the belligerence of in the shadow of a big neighbour, just be getting on with pursuing The significant extension of the role of the Trump Administration, because it New Zealand could be expected to its interests quietly, determinedly, the Five Eyes Agreement that such a move was so extreme. However, it is likely uphold the rights of small nations and unobtrusively. The resort to would entail goes beyond the scope of the to become more difficult if, as the to self-determination, in the event finger-wagging warnings about in- early signs suggest, the more benign of any moves by China to invade original UK-USA Agreement for the sharing Informatics by IAS Study Centre, New Delhi, India ternational conduct, and obfuscating of joint signals intelligence that gave rise to and ANZUS. Other parties to the original UKUSA Agreement Biden Administration maintains the Taiwan at a future point. references to ancient symbols we it in the first place. included Norway, Denmark and West Germany, but they did same broad stance. The current anxiety amongst have seen of late are not signs of in- That Agreement had its origins in the not become members of the Five Eyes “Club.” Unfortunately, the government’s other Five Eyes partners about New dependence. They simply make our Allied Second World War code-breaking Valuable intel provider current attempts to explain its Zealand is not so much that we are government look like international operations at the now famous Bletchley Over the years, New Zealand has been a valuable position look clumsy and inept. pursuing our own national interests “babes in arms,” that much easier to Park in Buckinghamshire. When it was provider of signals intelligence to the Five Eyes partners. Telling other countries to treat China in respect of China – most countries laugh at and discount. formalised in the Cold War environment of Our geographic location assists our interception capabilities with more respect, as the Trade understand that and do likewise – but Peter Dunne was a Minister of the Crown the early 1950s it was effectively the intelli- considerably, which explains our value to the other partners. Minister has done, makes us look like that we are allowing ourselves to under the Labour and National-led gence component of the regional collective It is also the reason why, despite the somewhat bullying grovelling sycophants. become seen as a vocal, uncritical governments from November 2008 to September 2017. He lives in Wellington. security Agreements like NATO, SEATO talk being directed our way at present, New Zealand is Using similes like the taniwha and supporter of China. Every statement gence collection network for diplomatic initiatives undermined the diplomats who The Five Eyes debate was far from the member governments should be responsible for those initiatives. Driven by Aussie-UK media, the Intense reaction rights and democracy and, as we have “Let us remember, this is not a defence criticisms were unwarranted Ms Mahuta’s comment caused some always done, we will make sure that we alliance, it is not a diplomatic coalition, it intense reaction, with the Telegraph’s raise these concerns in those arenas on an is an intelligence collection and sharing Peter Wilson Defence Editor Con Coughlin suggesting ongoing basis,” she said. network,” he said. Good relations intact rime Minister Jacinda Ardern had New Zealand could face expulsion. Regarding increasing tensions between Mr Buchanan said that the security some forthright comments to make Prominent former British politician China and Five Eyes, she said New Zealand relationship in general between New as well when she spoke to media Nigel Farage told Newstalk ZB New Zealand had never chosen sides. “In having that Zealand and its Five Eyes partners was following a Zoom meeting with the had betrayed the English-speaking world independent foreign policy over decades, the best it had been since the non-nuclear PUS Chamber of Commerce and was asked Australian and New Zealand foreign ministers and “sold its soul to China.” we have never been in the position of row in the mid-80s. about Five Eyes. and in Wellington Former Australian Foreign Minister choosing sides.” His conclusion was: “I think what we New Zealand’s attitude to the intelli- on April 23, 2021 Alexander Downer said that New Zealand Media driven campaign have here is a beat-up, put quite simply, gence-gathering alliance which includes (RNZ Photo by Samuel Rillstone) had alienated itself and Five Eyes was now International Defence Analyst Paul and it is going to go away because neither the US, Britain, Canada and Australia “more like four eyes and a wink.” Buchanan asked on First Up as to why New the intelligence partners nor their was under scrutiny last month following Ms Ardern said that New Zealand had Zealand was coming under such intense governments have made any criticism of critical reporting in Britain and Australia. an independent foreign policy and she criticism and said that it was interesting New Zealand’s stance.” Five Eyes has widened its remit to rejected any suggestion that diplomatic that none of it had come from Five Eyes Peter Wilson is a life member of Parliament’s issue joint statements criticising other relations with its Five Eyes partners were governments. Press Gallery, 22 years as NZPA’s Political Edi- countries for human rights violations and strained. “It has come from the conservative tor and seven as Parliamentary Bureau Chief anti-democratic measures, something Strategic importance media, mostly in the UK and Australia. for NZ Newswire. The above is an extract of which Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta “For us, Five Eyes will continue and will The criticism in my mind is completely always be very, very strategically important unwarranted because New Zealand has his Weekly Analysis dated May 1, 2021. The said she was “uncomfortable” with. full text, published under a special agreement New Zealand has not signed up to to New Zealand. Going , we will done nothing but reaffirm the original continue to make sure that we work with purpose of Five Eyes,” he said. with www.rnz.co.nz, can be read in our Web some of the statements criticising China, National Party Leader Judith Collins Edition (www.indiannewslink.co.nz) although it has issued its own. (RNZ Picture by Dom Thomas) our partners around issues like human Mr Buchanan said that using an intelli-

less traffic congestion, and more Judith Collins slams Labour’s proposed Health Policy as divisive confidence in local schools are among decisions made by the Government on Provisions of the Treaty the objectives towards which her Party “There is room for better service general health – on everyone’s health. That The Treaty covers three basic but will work. delivery but not inequity” is a veto power over $20 billion worth fundamental values that can already be “New Zealanders want a more cohe- Venkat Raman of Government health spending. That is seen reflected in National Party values, sive society where everyone is treated not something that is designed to address she said. equally and where freedom of speech is ational Party Leader Judith inequities,” she said. “Article 1 Kawanatanga, establishes the maintained. These are the things people Collins has slammed the Labour “Expect worst outcomes” Queen as our sovereign and . care about. These are the things that sup- government’s new health policy According to Ms Collins, the issue raises This speaks directly to our first National port strong communities and will help creating a separate system for two questions: Is this what the Maori Party value of loyalty to our country and New Zealand recover from Covid-19. I NMaori with veto powers as divisive, believe that the National Party’s values Chiefs and (William) Hobson imagined in sovereign. Article 2 Tino Rangatiratanga, inequitable and detrimental to New 1840 when they agreed: we are now one confirms the property rights of all people. are strong. We will rebuild our public Zealanders in general. National Party Leader Judith Collins speaks at her people? Is this the way New Zealanders It establishes that all iwi, families and support by emphasising the values that Speaking at her Party’s Northern Party’s Northern Conference in Auckland on today, in 2021, want to move forward individuals have rights over their own have seen National in Government two Regional Conference at the AUT City Cam- May 1, 2021 ( Screenshot) as a society?” she asked, and added, “Do land and property. Property rights are out of every three years since 1950. pus in Auckland on Saturday, May 1, 2021, we want separation of governance along again a key democratic principle and core Strong values she said that there could be room within ethnic lines?” to National party values. Article 3 Orite- Fundamentally, New Zealand’s values a health system for delivery programmes She said that while Maori suffer from tanga, most importantly, states that all are National Party values. We should that target the needs of Maori and other the worst health outcomes compared to people have the same rights. Those three not let an extraordinary twelve months groups. other segments, this can be best addressed simple concepts – nationhood, property question who we are and what we stand Proposed restructure by targeted programmes such as Whanau rights and equal rights – are a powerful for,” she said. “The Labour Government, in develop- Ora. foundation for a country, and a powerful “We need to get on with building ing its proposed health restructure, has “My view is that separate systems of foundation to consider our National Party housing, roads and infrastructure; a said that we have a Treaty obligation to governance is not what the chiefs and values,” she said. second harbour crossing for Auckland; have separate systems. They are demand- Hobson had in mind, and separate systems Ms Collins was forthright in her address the East West Link and Mill Road; fixing ing a model where we have separate National Party Leader Judith Collins with Cau- will lead to worse outcomes for everyone,” about the state of affairs of the National Auckland’s pipes and cleaning up the health authorities – one for Maori and cus colleagues Dr Share Reti (left) and Andrew she said. Party and about the internal review beaches; investing in more heavy rail one for everyone else. Labour’s changes Bayly (right) at the Party’s Northern Conference Describing the Treaty of Waitangi as the undertaken on the aftermath of electoral and bus rapid transit; RMA reform that are not based on addressing inequities. in Auckland on May 1, 2021 ‘Founding Document of New Zealand,’ she defeat on October 17, 2020. She said that will deliver affordable housing and faster (Courtesy: Getty Images) Labour has said its changes are about said that it is important to consider how to would be the key focus at the Party’s commutes; more economic growth; meeting Treaty obligations and has inter- ability to commission its own work, but reflect the value of National Party. regional conferences scheduled to be held attracting the world’s best and brightest preted Article 2 and Tino Rangatiratanga also the ability to veto decisions made by “The Treaty of Waitangi is New throughout New Zealand this month. to come here; investing in science as requiring Maori decision-making at all the government on general health. Zealand’s founding document, and we Party objectives and growing our technology sector; levels of the system,” she said. “The proposed Maori Health Authority should consider how we can reflect this She said that better housing and empowering businesses and farmers to Ms Collins said that the proposed Maori will not only have the ability to commission in our National Party values. This work is communities, safer communities, better use science and technology to reduce Health Authority will not only have the its own work, but also the ability to veto underway,” she said. infrastructure, a sustainable environment, emissions,” Ms Collins said. 10 Businesslink MAY 15, 2021 Biased, politicised programmes lower trust in New Zealand media

Radio New Zealand and TVNZ rewarded with big rises in readership, latest, March, Nielsen monthly ratings. cards. Four months after taking over lead the pack viewership and even user donations, the In first place, nzherald.co.nz has pushed MediaWorks’ television arm, Discovery ebbing away of trust will puzzle some back to its near record monthly unique Inc is looking to make cost savings. newsrooms. audience at 1.95 million, with , at 1.77 The process of talking to staff began The JMAD report suggests reasons for million, now around 300,000 down on its last week and will play out over the mistrust in the media include (a) political own highs of 2.1 million due to removing its next couple of months. The company is bias, especially in talkback radio (“They content from Facebook. Newshub recorded positioning the cuts as the integration of are pretty right-wing”) (b) politicisation 890,000, just holding off RNZ at 860,000, its Australasian businesses. of media (c) media pushing certain social with 1News some distance back among the Discovery already owned the small and other agenda (including climate second tier sites, at just 720,000. free-to-air channels, Choice and HGTV Mark Jennings and Tim Murphy change) (d) media offering opinions, The rnz.co.nz audience now is about 60% when it bought Three, , and Edge not factual news and information (e) higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic TV off MediaWorks. Sales and back he latest findings on the public’s not offering a full picture of events (f) hit a year ago, having spiked like those of office functions are obvious areas for trust in New Zealand news make selective reporting (g) poor standard many news outlets at the beginning of the rationalisation, although the savings are confronting ; Plus RNZ of journalism, including poor sourcing, outbreak in March and April 2020, but likely to be minor. rides high in new online audience factual mistakes, poor grammar and low unlike some, holding onto much of its gain. In Australia, free-to-air channel, Tnumbers and Discovery starts cutting staff standard of writing Stuff data less reliable is a joint venture between Discovery at Three Less than half the New Zealand in March on behalf of AUT’s research Worse than Finland, better than Stuff is no longer officially part of the Inc and . Discovery public now professes ‘overall trust’ in centre for Journalism, Media and Democ- Australia Nielsen mea