No one deserves a fat state pension

Gareth MorganTax and Welfare

When we look at our social welfare regime it is full of inequity, so much so that it can be viewed as a tax on poverty. We maintain a mix of targeted benefits, including the dole, invalids, solo parent, Working … Read More

Do the rich pay their fair share of tax?

Gareth MorganTax and Welfare

Some numbers from the budget have been doing the rounds on social media, showing that high income earners pay the lion’s share of income tax. No surprises there. But does that mean rich people pay their fair share? The income … Read More

Towards a Shortlist of Suitable Flag Designs

Gareth MorganTreaty

We are up to 3,000 flag entries now and as I peruse them it is evident that the strongest preference is to design a flag that incorporates the existing and the Maori flag as well as the silver fern. That … Read More

Yes Prime Minister, Keep Moonbeam to Yourself

Gareth MorganEnvironment

As Prime Minister it’s time for you to be more assertive in defence of New Zealand’s native fauna. As your own Minister of Conservation has pointed out wandering cats are a significant threat to the Kiwi now (let alone the … Read More

TPPA Negotiation Tactics: Why the Secrecy?

Gareth MorganEconomics

It’s a couple of months since we last wrote on the TPPA, has anything happened since? Only more evidence that the expectations of those involved in the process continue to be set back – which seems to be the nature … Read More

Saving Lake Taupo – a World First

Gareth MorganEnvironment

We talked to farmer Mike Barton about all the work that has gone into saving Lake Taupo. Mike even gave Geoff a pronunciation lesson (think toe paw). Saving the lake from declining water quality has been an enormous challenge, but … Read More