tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-253727702012-02-16T22:59:47.289+11:00backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.comBlogger3881100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-14950472497008988412009-10-29T15:05:00.001+11:002009-10-29T15:05:36.903+11:00

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-73877076658307247352009-08-04T23:18:00.002+10:002009-08-04T23:20:43.682+10:00

Part II.I don't blog here anymore. I pretty much only comment at a handful of blogs like PublicAddress, thehandmirror, inastrangeland, thestandard, kiwiblog... all the links are on the side.I'll workout what to do with this at some point...

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-43986325794179449722009-03-25T08:03:00.005+11:002009-03-25T08:16:43.432+11:00

Shane Webcke's written a book about his career in League. I know little about him other than he was a forward, a hard-bastard in fact, and that he played for Brisbane and the Kangaroos. There's news coverage this morning that suggests his book was going to include critical comments about fellow players regarding an allegation of sexual assault made against them a few years back. Now, it appears

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-64735436078469002412009-03-22T19:31:00.011+11:002009-03-22T23:45:12.619+11:00

A run-chase that almost faltered - a confident start followed by the wobbles, but still England won the game.The Ferns were resolute however, they turned a very getable score into an almost defendable one, losing only in the 48th over. I might blog some more about it but here's a couple of shots from the game.On the left, the late NZ rally, Doolan plays through midwicket. She went on to score 48,

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-17643923873890517862009-03-19T12:31:00.009+11:002009-03-19T16:44:39.299+11:00

The Jane McGrath foundation will benefit from donations made at today's ICC Women's World Cup game between England and Australia just as it did during the last test between the Australian men and the South Africans at the SCG. It's great to see Cricket Australia so thoroughly get behind the Foundation which provides funding for breast care nurses on a national basis and promotes public awareness

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-46459938714789216572009-03-18T21:27:00.005+11:002009-03-18T21:39:24.052+11:00

It's an offer simply too good to pass-up, free tickets to the Women's World Cup final, North Sydney Oval, this Sunday from 10am.I 'spose you could do your washing, car's a mess too and God knows when you last visited the rellos (trans: relatives) but bugger that, go to the cricket, cheer the White Ferns, the kids will get a balloon animal and have their face painted while you grab a

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-82937518615250865972009-03-18T12:37:00.006+11:002009-03-19T23:22:34.586+11:00

It was a glorious afternoon in North Sydney yesterday. The autumnal cool air and warm afternoon sun made for perfect conditions.North Sydney oval has old-world charm. The stadia are vintage, recovered from various developments at the SCG apparently. They're shallow and tightly surround the pitch. A large embankment on the east side of the ground is the perfect spot to sit if you've got a hat and

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-19982093303804168082009-03-17T10:49:00.006+11:002009-03-17T13:30:01.697+11:00

India won the toss and elected to bat, they've lost two wickets for just 37 runs after 12 overs bringing the danger pair of Chopra and Raj together!Update: Browne makes the critical break through, getting Raj out caught behind for just 21 - her average before this game was 89. India now 68 for three and falling just below three runs an over after 23 overs.Update 2: Pulford knocks over Rumeli Dhar

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-75789951962611304272009-03-17T06:19:00.009+11:002009-03-17T07:07:32.370+11:00

What is it with the lack of coverage of women's sport in Australia? I recall being particularly peeved when the 2006 trans-Tasman netball was not live on television even though the rights were with the national free-to-air broadcaster.Coverage of the ICC Women's World Cup is good by comparison, it's live and although it's not free-to-air, all North Sydney oval games are on Foxtel. Tick for

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-61650735122828763322009-03-16T19:59:00.010+11:002009-03-17T11:59:38.264+11:00

The White Ferns face India at North Sydney oval today, Tuesday 17 March, and must win to have a chance of making the final. Assuming the remaining super six games go on form, England will be in the finals and will face one of India, Australia or New Zealand.India have momentum in their favour having won a tight contest against Australia but little separates them from the White Ferns. Both have

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-60689907011169646562009-03-13T12:04:00.009+11:002009-03-15T14:24:00.533+11:00

I should hardly be surprised by news that despite topping their pool, something they were not predicted to do, the White Ferns will not play at North Sydney oval on Saturday as scheduled as I'd hoped. This is Because cameras are only at North Sydney oval and that's where Australia were playing there regardless of where they ended up in the first round (having come second).The White Ferns are now

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-15836578579184289422009-03-12T16:55:00.004+11:002009-03-16T15:33:29.010+11:00

But fun, much more so than the 'naf mystery jacket owner Naked lied about created to flog cheap gear.I'm curious. Bets? Craiglist makes sense, some other networking/dating site perhaps?Update: it is not astro-turfing or some corporate strategy, I regret my earlier cynicism (I'm not usually cynical ), it is however, plagiarism. Melburnian Craig is reprimanded here for ripping off the idea from a

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-11830901028239163842009-03-12T10:33:00.005+11:002009-03-12T15:31:12.191+11:00

After eleven overs, NZ are two for 40. Tiffen still at wicket however.Update: Great recovery, NZ now three for 99. Tiffen took a back seat to Satterthwaite who's gone on to post her highest score, currently 69 (previous high score 67) and is scoring at close to a run a ball.Update 2: Now five down for 132 (32 over). Satterthwaite out for 73 from 76. Vice Captain Mason went cheaply but Sara

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-67485337966130598002009-03-10T19:32:00.005+11:002009-03-10T21:09:03.701+11:00

The White Ferns beat the Windies out west in Bankstown - no match report from me, I was busy with public service.Next up are the South Africans who lost today to the Australians (Aussies posted a good score and the South Africans couldn't complete their overs). It looks like NZ fielded their top team against the Australians and gave some a rest today. I'll not make this weekend's game as it's in

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-69818387359469912272009-03-09T15:39:00.025+11:002009-03-09T20:23:24.211+11:00

NZ's off to a great start in the ICC Women's World Cup beating the Aussies at home in a close game that, sadly, was decided by Meers Duckworth and Lewis. NZ would've won had the game gone on, honest, and despite the weather it was an cracker game. A prelude to the final perhaps?NZ won even after a mid-order collapse. Great batting by NZ captain Haidee Tiffen (see above playing strongly in front

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-87486160069274969382009-03-03T21:16:00.004+11:002009-03-03T21:24:13.431+11:00

Lindsay Mitchell and I will likely not see eye to eye on many things but I understand that she's a conviction politican and so I understand her dismay at reading an ACT MP suggest the Bill of Rights be amended to accommodate his pet project; discredited, knee-jerk law-n-order crappola.The three-strikes law's (and its variations) been around an age. As I've commented before, it's clap-trap

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-46708562985144539252009-03-03T12:20:00.003+11:002009-03-03T12:27:02.487+11:00

If you woke up and wondered what time of year it was, this story would tell you it must be the start of the League season. Tragic. Just tragic! This must be the third or fourth year in a row that the start of the NRL has resulted in allegations of sexual assault.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-10292102568856572732009-03-03T12:07:00.004+11:002009-03-10T21:22:17.265+11:00

I heard last night that Matt Laffan had died. I'd first became aware of him only when he stood as an independent for Lord Mayor of Sydney. I then seemed to see him everywhere, on TV in the streets and around the courts. He was a remarkable character, an inspirational figure who appears to have never once let serious disabilities deter him from his goals. His passing is sad, but his life was

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-30872573633910725032009-03-03T11:32:00.007+11:002009-03-03T12:04:46.276+11:00

The media are keen on the prospect of a common border between NZ and Australia. The focus is on passenger access and this makes sense if NZ wants to grab a larger share of the tourism dollars expanded by Australians. Enabling them to check-in and clear customs just the once will represent a real benefit and could shift business - particularly from the domestic market where suddenly a trip to

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-7084023307453218392009-03-02T14:25:00.004+11:002009-03-03T21:06:57.439+11:00

I'm pleased that Andrew Little's taken on the Labour presidency. He's always struck me as an incredibly thoughtful and reasonable man, able to be a fierce advocate without being unpleasant or hectoring. His leadership of the EPMU has been characterised by a very constructive engagement with business leaders around shared goals; productive, profitable and sustainable industry. Mike Williams

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-41967566039729085102009-03-02T10:56:00.007+11:002009-03-02T14:44:47.508+11:00

Key's honeymoon continues despite tough times in New Zealand but I wonder what happened to the fire from the election campaign? Remember John wandering around empty stadia lamenting that our biggest export was talent? What about the billboards that promised an end to all those teary farewells? That was all going to change wasn't it? John will claim time's moved on, that the global crisis has

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-5924755385534841572009-02-22T23:05:00.002+11:002009-02-22T23:05:58.806+11:00

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-48499221751638449212009-02-22T11:18:00.014+11:002009-02-22T21:50:39.567+11:00

Have you any idea who I think I am?It's not the gratuitous spending history (who takes photos of receipts for crissakes), the name-checking of minor celebs, nor even the vague racism - foreign waiting staff, goodness - it's the ridiculous belief anyone gives a shit. Surely this is a parody?Update: Kate accuses me of sexism on her blog. I've replied but it's not up and as Kate's previously

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-6003344697580203782009-02-18T07:54:00.011+11:002009-02-22T23:00:40.482+11:00

One of the most vexing issues in public policy is the impact of technology on our lives. Whether it's surveillance, stem-cell research or property rights, near constant innovation and ever increasing access means policy and regulation are always going to lag behind consumer practice. I'm anything but expert, I'm possibly a little careless in fact. I keep a watching eye the legal ranglings around

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-57097273015207393982009-02-17T19:49:00.015+11:002009-02-22T12:49:08.942+11:00

Turnbull's on the backfoot as the media speculate about his leadership. Having been on the wrong side of the stimulus debate, the Liberals have replaced the Shadow Treasurer since the alternative was to replace the Leader. But news reports that Cossie rejected the offer to succeed Bishop have simply revived debate about Cossie's leadership ambitions.Turnbull's tonight defended Cossie's right to

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-5127903007843953012009-02-17T16:36:00.008+11:002009-02-17T23:50:04.136+11:00

In a few of my more combative moments, I rebuked the Wellingtonhive for one or other indiscretions only to have them dismiss my criticisms as the irrelevant musings of a smalltime blogger (my words, not there's). Fair enough. The irony now is that dearjohn, the Hive's apparent successor, has experienced a predictable decline in readership. Whereas once the Hive's author(s) tracked their ascent up

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-68652279360276600422009-02-17T13:51:00.008+11:002009-02-17T13:59:01.470+11:00

I lament the demise of news media. Newspapers are increasingly irrelevant as sources of information. I got all hot and bothered about the conflation of news and advertising when Naked used social media to spruik a crappy Jacket. Today's Crikey (subscriber only) highlights an advert on Seek for an APN journo - note the blending of journalism and sales. If it were an advert for television, there'd

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-53250145777016713752009-02-17T12:19:00.004+11:002009-02-17T12:25:04.268+11:00

I'm listening to Parliament for the first time since the election. Lockwood's got lots of praise from many sources for his performance as Speaker. I'll add mine. He's clear, he's consistent and he's focused on Ministers acquitting themselves properly to the public. Excellent. I'd've thought he'd struggle since he's never been a particularly strong performer, I was wrong.I've got a mixed history

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-78057004349619222062009-02-15T14:56:00.004+11:002009-02-16T09:29:31.391+11:00

... is a pair of ear muffs.I don't imagine that Bennett will, for one second, consider taking advice from the commentators at Farrar site or from Cactus Kate herself. Parenting's bloody hard without having to worry about the press or wannabes.As for Holmes's comments, well he probably means well and has some experience to call on however he could at least have made his comments in private. Surely

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-63882817379304764942009-02-10T17:09:00.003+11:002009-02-10T17:23:04.371+11:00

Ahh, the nobility of self sacrifice - the last temptation is the greatest treason, to do the wrong thing for the right reason - Mat Baxter's gone from Naked. A marketing martyr is born. They claim it's unrelated to the lies, the other lies and the gloating, but I doubt it. Baxter might be a clever chap, I don't know, but none of Naked's crew should be proud of their actions and frankly the recent

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-56446626502922297512009-02-06T14:24:00.006+11:002009-02-06T15:30:33.937+11:00

I'd lost track of this, a little, until I saw others' blogs (particularly the handmirror's Waitangi Wahine summary). It's odd thinking about Waitangi Day from Australia. 355,000 Kiwis are here and there are a number of Waitangi events, but I'm not involved.The angst associated with Waitangi Day is frequently commented on. I don't think it's necessarily a bad thing. Contrast it with Australia Day

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-52451840003913684462009-02-06T12:39:00.007+11:002009-02-06T16:25:47.449+11:00

And here's another extract from a favourite podcast, the BBC 4 News Quiz. The following exchange was between Jeremy Hardy and David Mitchell. The question related to government investment in the automotive industry:Hardy: Does it produce less carbon if we burn money, maybe we should do that? Ithink we should just stop doing everything. Because they're inventing money tomake things that nobody

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-66568202048456064392009-02-05T14:12:00.006+11:002009-02-05T17:23:24.615+11:00

I'm not sure who put me onto Stephen Fry's podgrams, someone during my visit to NZ for the election I think? Anyway, here's an extract from Fry's most recent podgram (any errors, will be my errors of transcription).It's a cause of some upset to me, that more Anglophones don't enjoy language. Music, it seems, and dance and other athletic forms of movement, people seem to be able to find sensual

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-82755316004537398662009-02-04T15:30:00.004+11:002009-02-04T15:43:36.234+11:00

I used my iPod most days including at work if I'm able. When I have writing to do and can ignore the phone, I'll use my iPod to screen-out the office background noise. I listen to a pretty limited range of music in this situation, usually instrumental stuff so that lyrics don't distract me.Increasingly, away from the office, rather than listen to music, I've been preferring podcasts. Hence the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-91136497303790049372009-02-04T08:39:00.006+11:002009-02-04T12:15:36.353+11:00

Peter Costello's a bit of a guilty pleasure. His politics aren't mine, his earnest Christianity bugs me and he was a senior Minister in what I consider an amoral government and yet, I thoroughly enjoy him. Last night's inteview on ABC's Nightline perfectly encapsulates the man. Preening, posturing, glib and smarmy and yet, undeniably good politics. He excoriated Rudd, he wedged Gillard, he smote

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-11239916212832292462009-02-03T11:32:00.003+11:002009-02-03T11:39:22.903+11:00

I'd not been a fan of Rafa and would've prefered Federer to have won the Australian Open but this is classy:But for me, too. Roger is, we have a relationship and was tough moment for him … too much emotion is there yesterday, no? But probably in the future when we see that moment on the TV it's going to be nice, but when you live that moment, it's tough. Because I can't enjoy 100 per cent the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-32770514213719520292009-02-02T20:52:00.010+11:002009-02-03T00:26:21.147+11:00

Cheating, denials, invocations of past injustices, a close win... brilliant.I've got my tickets for the new Trumper stand at the SCG for Sunday and am prepared for an unusually hostile audience. Kiwis are usually merely gently mocked at the SCG, or any cricket ground in Australia for that matter. Few expect the Kiwis to win, even if they look a chance for 20 overs. Aussies expect to win against

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-80781868606956730052009-02-02T14:14:00.004+11:002009-02-02T17:59:03.834+11:00

Not all media are responding to Naked's campaign with quite the same resigned acceptance. Whereas Fairfax think it's an innocent hoot, Newscorp see it in different terms.The Australian's article clearly states that Naked have lied, on several occassions in fact. Whether the original lie, the fictitious Heidi and her mystery man/jacket, can be explained as just clever marketing is important, but

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-20120829175987367532009-01-29T16:33:00.003+11:002009-01-29T16:40:12.354+11:00

Here's a great summary of views about the Witchery campaign from within the marketing industry. I think the general view is negative. Note in this second article, relating to the student Naked did on the reaction to the campaign, the CEO of Witchery clearly is of the view that any media is good media. This industry-commentary is interesting and valid, and despite the survey results, I remain of

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-49082190940615736612009-01-29T09:44:00.005+11:002009-01-29T11:06:51.664+11:00

I'm struggling to work out a sensible rationale for the media's fawning coverage of Naked's duplicitous advertising. Were I more cynical, I'd guess that any tactic that boosts advertising is seen in a positive light by old-media struggling in financial circumstances. Equally likely, is the fact that it's just good copy.The latest angle is reports, by Naked, that their analysis of the feedback

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-46900317367346431892009-01-28T17:11:00.003+11:002009-01-28T17:14:01.822+11:00

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-18586830818958052442009-01-28T11:17:00.004+11:002009-01-28T11:41:04.381+11:00

I didn't. Had no idea until I saw today's draw of the Australian Open and noticed the first round of wheelchair tennis started today. Wheelchair tennis is in fact played at all four Opens. There's eight players in each of the men's and women's singles for the Australia Open but draws are unavailable for doubles and quads.More information about the NEC Super Series is available here as is the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-34565232745011551262009-01-27T15:12:00.003+11:002009-01-27T15:23:04.293+11:00

I feel for Jelena Dokic. Redeemed in this year's Australian Open and playing some of the best tennis of her career, she's still forced into responding to her father's ravings. This long-suffering young woman has finally emerged from her father's shadow - a burden perhaps only ever partly understood until recently - now to have him reappear on the eve of her latest match.Win or lose, Dokic now

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-42807855688541963152009-01-27T14:19:00.005+11:002009-01-27T16:04:26.277+11:00

An earlier post showing mash-up photos of Barack Obama has upset an anonymous reader. This US citizen is galled by the photo that combines Obama with Osama. Context is everything though as the Obama/Osama photo is contrasted with and Obama/Terminator mash-up. The point I was trying to make was the contrast; some see Obama as hero, some as villian. I didn't think it was unduly critical of Obama

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-1610621265973236622009-01-27T10:55:00.008+11:002009-01-28T10:07:33.127+11:00

I've long been interested in advertising. At its best it can rival traditional arts for innovation and creativity. Sadly, most advertising is complete rubbish. Unoriginal, banal and crude. I suspect clients are as much responsible for this situation as are agencies.Will more austere economic conditions lead to a more sophisticated approach? Not if the recent Witchery campaign by Naked is anything

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-52196473881554553182009-01-21T13:04:00.005+11:002009-01-21T13:10:12.343+11:00

I had a draft post on Obama. It wasn't all that different from many others I've already read. Then my cousin gently chastised me for goofing off a little. He listed all the stuff he has to do. He was, usually is, pretty busy at work and home. I get that. Here's my reply...Mostly, I feel the same. Not today but.In the last few days I've reviewed and commented on four or five Cabinet minutes,

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-78101960391926449262009-01-16T16:42:00.003+11:002009-01-27T15:31:35.938+11:00

Lyle Lovett's a Texan I greatly admire.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-32605470140876421082009-01-16T14:00:00.010+11:002009-01-16T16:40:52.336+11:00

The reaction to the imminent departure of both Steve Jobs and G W Bush couldn't be more different. Whereas sharemarket analysts fear Apple's future without Jobs, my sense is that political prognosticators see only an upside from a new Leader of the Free World.Back in May 2006, I posted this countdown clock for the Bush administration. It currently shows only a few days left. At that time, the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-79321410064378431392009-01-16T10:36:00.003+11:002009-01-16T10:40:31.346+11:00

C'mon, Hayden better than the Little Master? I don't think so.I didn't much like Haydo, he seemed a bit of a prat to me. I respect his achievements however. I even agree he probably revolutionised the role of openers; he was so dominant so quickly, he forced opposition captains to change fields by punishing their attack bowlers and could turn a game in a session (much like Gilchrist or Warne

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-40936207417279465212009-01-07T21:42:00.003+11:002009-01-07T22:22:48.093+11:00

My Christmas break is nearing its end. Sadly.Family have come and gone. They were frenetically completing odd-jobs around the house as they departed. Jobs I'm grateful they've done, they were not going to be done by me - a lack of skill, not endeavour mind. No escape from Sydney was possible and, despite my predictions, the city remained busy. A obscene queue outside the aquarium, traffic and

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-20565592393642752842008-12-24T19:54:00.006+11:002008-12-24T20:47:12.593+11:00

A three week break is only days old, Christmas in the morning, the Boxing Day test to follow. The youngest is more excited about Christmas than any previous year. She is convinced by the Santa-myth, Judeo-Christian or FMCG, and I'm certainly not going to spoil her fun. Family are relaxed, lunch organised, the forecast good. Friends will soon arrive from various parts, some close, others from afar

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-1947735873956476652008-12-09T13:16:00.005+11:002008-12-09T14:05:27.119+11:00

The tide has turned in almost every economy, NZ's perhaps more so because of its dependence on a narrow range of commodity exports and its small domestic economy. The reversal will not wipe away the gains of the last decade, but employment, trade and overall productivity are in decline as has been thoroughly commented on. Does this, however, justify the broad claims made in the Speech from the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-72727725471783594292008-12-04T09:21:00.006+11:002008-12-04T10:52:30.052+11:00

Having initially missed out on tickets for Crowded House's gig in Sydney, I was pleased to pick some up on Ebay at only a small premium on the face-value. I'm now clutching two tickets to the gig at the Enmore and enjoying their latest release - Time on Earth.I've long been a Crowdies tragic. When Split Enz broke up, I simply transfered my affections to any and all of its offspring, but

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-66684065531528368522008-11-28T14:39:00.018+11:002008-11-29T10:58:47.686+11:00

Mike Minogue has died at age 85.As I understand it, he was one of the two National MPs that threatened to cross the floor to support Prebble's anti-nuclear Members Bill Mr Minogue was a regular and vocal critic of Muldoon whose persistent dissent thus precipitating no doubt contributed to the calling of the '84 snap election. I know little about Minogue but I have read All Honourable Men: Inside

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-32819107047702663152008-11-27T15:57:00.010+11:002008-12-16T09:18:50.345+11:00

Bloody economists.Seven totally trivial facts, in no particular order.I did a Christian TV show when I was at school, Wavelength it was called. I was a regular. It made me real popular with the Novices and got me into all the best prayer-groups.I really regret not going to see The The in 1989 'cause I thought I had a chance with a girl I can no longer recall.In 1986, I was stoned for the first

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-1306012138836494462008-11-27T09:46:00.011+11:002008-11-27T10:15:52.697+11:00

Baz Luhrmann, director of Moulin Rouge and Romeo and Juliet, has used the promotion platform of his latest movie, Australia, to comment on Australian race relations, or at least the history of race relations.Luhrmann noted that had Barack Obama been born in Australia, he'd not likely have achieved anything like he has in the US.To give context, the President-elect of the United States is 47. If

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-38948889397339856202008-11-24T21:04:00.002+11:002008-11-24T21:10:38.498+11:00

I despise the Herald, the Herald on Sunday particularly. Sunday papers are almost always rubbish in New Zealand and in Australia. And so rather than explore any number of meaningful and interesting lines of analysis on the new PM, the HoS has instead examined Bronagh Key's dress sense. What this says about their editorial capacity or readership is up to you but I'm with NRT, the handmirror and

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-89503722360342535122008-11-21T09:18:00.007+11:002008-11-21T11:02:44.316+11:00

When David Hicks pled guilty to terrorism charges in a US military court, he knew that he'd be released to Australia. This was probably the only thing about which he could have been certain. Though freed from inhumane treatment at Guantanamo, he nevertheless had to serve out his sentence. Immediately on arrival in South Australia, he was placed in solitary detention in a maximum security prison.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-21861320473039798742008-11-20T16:11:00.004+11:002008-11-20T16:23:27.396+11:00

With the first Test underway, 7 for 152 is a score that would ordinarily terrify a kiwi; except we're bowling! It's a short tour but tonight, and possibly only tonight, I'll not be paid-out by my Australian mates.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-63833781513694455172008-11-20T09:52:00.002+11:002008-11-20T10:01:22.305+11:00

The Hive's back, well only to indulge in a bit of frankly, wanky, self-congratulation.Expect more of this kind of told-you-so stuff from elements of the blogosphere. These authors cling to historical grievances in a way that reminds me of petty teenage rivalries.What's odd about this piece however, is that it's not about trade, a subject on which the Hive's principal author is clearly expert, but

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-86740097845621719032008-11-19T21:14:00.005+11:002008-11-20T09:49:34.651+11:00

By the time I got to Wellington, Labour PMs simply weren't about (and it's not like they were in short supply in the '90s). They'd in fact been gone a few years, some rather begrudgingly so, meaning I had to content myself with seeing them in Opposition only. Fortunately, and despite their defeat, some of senior members of the 4th Labour government remained remarkably effective.I have a clear

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-30193849999164631232008-11-19T20:59:00.002+11:002008-11-19T21:04:17.222+11:00

...of being too regularly critical of Feminists, what the hell is Greer thinking? Curmodgeon.I've not so far cared what Michele Obama wore. Firstly, she wasn't elected. Secondly, I'm not Tim Gunn. But regardless. who the f**k cares? Michele Obama's clearly a remarkably intelligent person, what the hell does Ms Greer hope to achieve in her fashion critique?

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-11483285530348915892008-11-17T08:33:00.003+11:002008-11-17T08:48:48.201+11:00

QueenBee has announced the demise of the Hive. Like others, I'm sorry it's gone. I enjoyed the insights on trade and related matters, presumably authored by the principal writer.I'd previously criticised QueenBee, however, for a growing inconsistency evident in many of the posts. While claiming to be bipartisan, QueenBee was too often in the company of hacks like Hooton and Whaleoil to be

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-49447171970547328302008-11-13T15:36:00.007+11:002008-11-13T16:50:52.976+11:00

... so says Ken Henry, federal Treasury Secretary.In today Australian Financial Review, offline, Henry notes that there's 125 different taxes, more than the paltry number of protected northern hairy-nosed wombats, 115.Too often NZ commentators elide over the complexities of federalism in preference for trite statements claiming Australian's have higher wages (true at least at the upper-end, but

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-49803299145331175842008-11-13T09:29:00.008+11:002008-11-13T15:36:21.756+11:00

I first remember Rosemary McLeod from my youth. She was a cartoonist and columnist for the Listener. My mother, a nascent femisist, also had a book of her collected writings. She was clearly a significant thinker, commentor and agitator for women's rights. She seemed to be able to address serious matters frankly and with humour.Later, McLeod became a more angry voice, primarily for the Dominion.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-57083804811189285982008-11-12T17:30:00.001+11:002008-11-12T17:31:42.841+11:00

I've corrected my contact email address - thanks to the person who pointed out that it was incorrect.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-47869077713499030442008-11-11T16:50:00.006+11:002008-11-11T21:24:11.831+11:00

I've not had a lot to do with Phil Goff though I've long admired him as a political operator. He was opposition justice spokesman when I was at the Ministry of Justice; he caused us a lot of grief. He was consistent and focused. Our Minister, the sauve and confident Doug Graham, was wary; Goff clearly had both a strategy and the ability to effectively implement it.Earlier still Goff was the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-80167098243540033942008-11-09T12:10:00.006+11:002008-11-11T16:50:03.469+11:00

Key's set himself challenging goals. And, having largely got the result he wanted, it's reasonable to expect he'll deliver on them. His colleagues owe him. Unelectable for almost a decade, Key's remade National. They resemble a coherent team. Moderate. Ruling out Douglas ensures he has some wiggle room. In a few days, they'll stitch up a deal with ACT and United, they'll get warrants and announce

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-16538594800024520252008-11-03T19:55:00.002+11:002008-11-03T20:16:17.635+11:00

Wellington remains my home. Although I left six years ago, I still feel immediately comfortable on arrival. The weather's fantastic, for the moment. I catch up with lots of friends, we go to fantastic cafes. New shops and galleries have opened. Posters for gigs are everywhere. Skin Tight is on. I saw it years ago. It was brilliant. I'll not see it this time but I'm keen to check out Fur Patrol.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-34181786950527508162008-10-23T15:22:00.008+11:002008-10-23T15:32:04.607+11:00

How some see Barack...is a little different to others...Hat-tip: browncardigan (I swear we've got different audiences, it's the only reason I shamelessly copy all your stuff).

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-70164837336901340282008-10-22T09:56:00.008+11:002008-10-23T16:02:06.458+11:00

I can confidently say that in the only poll that matters, the General Election, Grant Robertson is comfortably ahead of Stephen Franks.This morning I cast a special vote for Grant and Labour in Sydney. I was the first customer at the temporary polling booth - perhaps I'm the first voter for the Wellington Central electorate, perhaps the first voter in the NZ General Election ...?A cluster of

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-67633511517914335582008-10-21T21:15:00.002+11:002008-10-21T21:27:04.534+11:00

Last election I sat glued to my computer constantly mashing the refresh key as the evening swung from a National to a Labour government. I remember hearing Labour's Mike Williams cautioning against panic as he predicted Auckland seats would favour Labour. He was of course proven right. The closest of elections still gave Labour first go at forming a government. One that's lasted despite real

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-15034401556782423462008-10-21T14:12:00.004+11:002008-10-21T20:28:11.598+11:00

I wonder what George W's Facebook page looks like?Hat-tip: browncardigan

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-17805499366580507372008-10-21T08:45:00.005+11:002008-10-21T14:18:56.447+11:00

Is Key's character an issue for this election? I believe it is.I think Key's lack of experience and his inconsistency seriously impact his credibility. His flip-flopping is well documented but that alone's not fatal. Instead, it's his shiftiness that troubles me. It's evident in his handling of Francesca Mould's questioning over his Rail shares. If the explanation was as innocent as he claims,

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-78304270342558102622008-10-20T21:30:00.005+11:002008-10-20T22:15:36.143+11:00

Cossie's Future Fund has not faired well of late. Hardly surprising given the environment. The return for 07/08 is a modest 1.5 per cent. That's 3 per cent less that CPI and hugely down on the almost 7.4 per cent in the previous year. This is hard on people who're expecting to retire soon - I wonder what reforecasting is being done to assess the numbers of people who'll defer their retirements?

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-30941472095698822832008-10-20T21:15:00.005+11:002008-10-20T22:03:03.680+11:00

Australia have won so many Tests in four days, I almost missed the significance of today's news: Australia may lose a Test in four days.Is Hayden's career over? His 29 in the second innings is his higest score in this series. But what about Watson? Good knock in the first innings but 2 in the second. Even Hussey failed... The freebie newspaper handed out to Sydney commuters is calling for the Pup

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-86096375880363766832008-10-20T20:44:00.005+11:002008-10-21T12:19:06.085+11:00

Three recent posts have caught my eye. Two, by Chis Trotter and NRT, deal with the prospect of an over-hang and the third is about special education.Chris wrote this very critical piece concerning the prospect of a Maori-National coalition. Like Chris, I can't see it being sustainable because it appears to be inconsistent with Maori views (at least as they've been expressed in this survey).

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-61597235861183119482008-10-17T16:15:00.003+11:002008-10-17T16:17:01.184+11:00

Malcolm Turnbull proves he's hip-with-the-kids.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-39044762806418620172008-10-17T16:03:00.002+11:002008-10-17T16:09:43.383+11:00

Four Labor-held State seats are up for by-election tomorrow. The retirements of the Premier, Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Health will all test electorate reaction to the new Labor-leadership. Rather than offer my opinion - I can't even vote - I'll offer ABC polling expert, Anthony Green's.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-44201943968259470892008-10-17T14:31:00.004+11:002008-10-17T15:04:22.285+11:00

Each week Ben Watt makes his hour-long radio set available online at buzzin'fly radio.Listen to it.Watt's buzzin'fly label is quite simply the best around in house/deep-house from the UK and Europe and he DJs regular spots in London. He's also often in Australia. I saw him a year or so back at a club off Oxford St, Sydney - it's possibly the last time I went to a dance gig in fact (over-night

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-165214910313666972008-10-16T16:32:00.004+11:002008-10-17T15:14:01.748+11:00

QueenBee's wellingtonhive is popular and prolific blog. The mix of politics, trade news and general commentary is interesting although the editorial line is a little didactic (particularly given the claimed independence). But this latest post is simply tawdry .I posted earlier about the double standard right-wing bloggers seem to have; on the one hand insisting on unregulated markets, unfettered

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-227579224423272462008-10-16T12:50:00.002+11:002008-10-16T13:04:44.927+11:00

An hour into the debate, Obama talks about Free Trade - an issue of importance to NZ which is well positioned to do a multi-lateral trade deal with Asian partners and the US. Suggesting he's pro-Free Trade is one thing, but agricultural special interests and unions may curb his enthusiasm. The level of subsidies payable to US farmers is not the only issue at play - so too is the flow of migrant

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-28930991186564758902008-10-16T10:22:00.002+11:002008-10-16T10:24:37.054+11:00

Parody and satire can be best response sometimes. 08wire's mash-up of Key is superb.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-44929361283460415552008-10-16T09:40:00.004+11:002008-10-16T10:20:46.244+11:00

Bryan Spondre's keen to protect his talent. Matthew Hooton's been throwing out raw meat complete with wild and unsubstantiated accusations of corruption but any hint of criticism and Bryan deleterious hand descends to obliterate it.His footprint is left however to tell you you've transgressed:You’ve not c... Comment deleted because our lawyers told us too. Bryan Spondre Blog Producer.I'm assuming

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-73789692199477327262008-10-14T16:32:00.003+11:002008-10-14T16:51:32.434+11:00

Sometimes the most deserving stories are simply ignored. Back in August, the government announced it had concluded a deal with the Australian government to permit super portability. This removed an exception that meant NZers could only access their super at retirement, even if they'd left Australia - in this way NZers were being treated as if they were Australians (this makes sense given the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-62372321015726158622008-10-14T14:31:00.006+11:002008-10-14T15:05:50.590+11:00

NRT blogs on Rodney Hide's concerns that the Maori Party may potentially hold the balance of power in the next Parliament. Anyone can vote for the Maori Party with their party vote, therefore I'm not at all sure how they're any different from any other minor party? As NRT notes, there might be issues about overhangs and how they occur, but that's not what Rodney focused on.Our MMP system of

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-25182213924654612892008-10-14T11:49:00.006+11:002008-10-14T12:33:04.552+11:00

Listening to Helen Clark on Checkpoint yesterday confirmed for me what others had been saying: Labour's energised around a clear and consistent policy agenda.Clark's unrivalled as a political leader. Over nine years, she's built a policy framework that culminated in yesterday's announcement on student allowances. If you focus just on the economics, first fees were regulated, then the loan scheme

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-857977091110693512008-10-13T20:39:00.005+11:002008-10-13T21:13:54.529+11:00

For years and years I, and many many other students besides, argued strenulously for universal allowances and lower fees.We railed first against Marshall and Goff and then against Lockwood and Creech. We pointed out the apalling inequity that while we were missing out, people who were unemployed were supported. We argued that poorer kids were put off and that education was a right. That your

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-36228103044698728942008-10-12T15:40:00.005+11:002008-10-12T16:56:59.249+11:00

There's never a shortage of fools in politics. Some, but not in fact many, are elected but most are content to bray from the sidelines. Foolishness is good copy, fools make great sycophants and fools never know when to shut up.Each and every election throws up hundreds of opportunities for foolishness. Cameras are mostly trained on the real talent but citizen-journalism provides unprecdented

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-69844834507540593232008-10-06T12:42:00.005+11:002008-10-07T13:07:57.464+11:00

You'd have thought John lost to Brian Neeson based on this morning's news that National will lock 'em and throw away the key (sorry, an obvious but compelling pun).Neeson was the architect of the Degrees of Murder members bill in 1996/97 which, if memory serves, differentiated several categories of culpable homocide, murder, from manslaughter so that an offender could be sentenced not just to

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-61975021400842113162008-10-03T06:30:00.003+10:002008-10-03T06:51:56.135+10:00

National's quandry on tax is complicated by the financial crisis. Global demand is likely to soften in the short-term which will impact NZ just like every other country. Cutting personal and/or corporate tax can't offset this and so even if National gets some political advantage going into the election, it still faces the prospect that GDP may weaken over the next three years. That's not their

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-87921184243610629752008-10-03T01:05:00.001+10:002008-10-03T01:06:28.974+10:00

Brown cardigan boys say: "this amazes me" - me too.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-25350350579717892672008-10-03T00:33:00.003+10:002008-10-03T00:47:01.369+10:00

Eddie Izzard has become a respectable actor, but was once a brilliant comedian - this lego animation is as good as the original performance.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-84127585753353806752008-10-02T23:51:00.002+10:002008-10-02T23:53:51.319+10:00

Bryan Spondre's given me just enough rope... just enough. As he says, it's just the interweb.Pissing contest and wet feet; there's a certain inevitability.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-43579516960807654622008-10-02T16:50:00.005+10:002008-10-07T12:57:02.177+11:00

QueenBee's site the Hive is a slightly toned down version of the run of the mill right-wing attack site. The language is more muted and the editorial line less didactic but the focus is no different.Several posts show QueenBee is less and less able to quiet her prejudices. Here she's hyping the already over-the-top story that the Police are at the beck and call of the ninth floor. Here it's the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-3815688420544049432008-10-02T00:18:00.002+10:002008-10-02T00:19:59.398+10:00

Endless colours, templates and gadgets - backin15 is a chameleon.

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-71609640744875004162008-10-01T23:16:00.001+10:002008-10-01T23:18:50.728+10:00

...how Obama's doing?Hat-tip: brown cardigan

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-5530213486632187792008-10-01T22:25:00.002+10:002008-10-01T23:10:01.742+10:00

I have to stop picking fights. They're largely irrelevant and almost certainly patholical; an opportunity to vent my frustrations at not being in NZ.Having discontinued my involvement in kiwiblogblog, I'd intended to leave the fray and simply enjoy the PublicAddress cluster of bloggers however, I've once again found myself poking sticks at right-wing bloggers. Most recently Matthew Hooton and

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-28109233353012642572008-09-26T15:43:00.003+10:002008-09-26T15:51:58.231+10:00

Top Aussie song: Under the Milky Way.You heard it here first, August 21st 2007, in fact.I don't agree but.The top song to come out of Australia is Hunters and Collectors Throw Your Arms Around Me (didn't make the top 20) but perhaps the Church are second. Silverchair's Straight Lines and the Go Betweens Streets of Your Town are in my top 5 also. Crowdies get 6 songs - you could argue they're not

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25372770.post-7049247021970746892008-09-23T12:17:00.006+10:002008-09-23T12:53:32.284+10:00

Deborah has started blogging the NZ General Election at Larvartus Prodeo which has made me rethink my blog-engagement.This blog's been ignored since October last year when I joined the group behind kiwiblogblog (now deleted). Since we pulled pulled that pin, I've concentrated my efforts mainly at Public Address (which, IMO, remains the standard-setter in NZ) with some forays into kiwiblog and the

backin15http://www.blogger.com/profile/16526191748394549650noreply@blogger.com6