Articles in Opinion

Thinking Ahead....

2011-12-07T09:14:54Z

My friend has told me all about her funeral. It’s presumably a long way off yet, but she has it all worked out. It’s even typed up on her computer. Her husband knows where to find the details when the time comes. She wants, she tells me, to have a white casket. And her makeup is to be subtle. Her face should not be ghostly white, just natural looking and her lips should neither take on the bright red of Marilyn Monroe nor the flamingo pink of Barbara Cartland. My friend is a woman of style in life, and so she wants to be seen in death.

Home By Christmas?

2011-10-22T22:37:20Z

Obama commits to pulling U.S. troops out of Iraq by Christmas this year

From Racoon Eyes to Model Looks

2011-04-06T04:20:33Z

A few tips for automatic camera users to use when shooting out in the sun.

The Healing Sideline

2009-11-20T13:05:45Z

An article about when sports and deep emotion meet head on. A thought provoking opinion piece.

Pledging Allegiance - What Makes A Fan?

2010-07-08T05:38:09Z

What defines a supporter of a national team and should New Zealanders be openly supporting other more successful team in sport based on some remote reason?

All At Sea

2010-07-22T01:22:01Z

Australian Election

Testing

2010-09-21T02:37:28Z

A provocative short short, written from within the mind of the prime minister's teenage daughter.

Four Things I Think Technology Should Allow

2010-10-04T08:22:06Z

There are things in life that require technological intervention to improve ease of use and effectiveness. Technology is surely available to make this possible.

Why Are The Locals Not Showing Up To The Delhi Commonwealth Games?

2010-10-06T10:21:44Z

There are several reasons why the crowds are sparse at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. Scott Donaldson explains.

England Victory Great For The Game

2010-11-15T10:40:08Z

England's recent win over the Wallabies has been a breath of fresh air for the game of rugby. Both the actual victory and the exciting way this was achieved now means there is another contender to challenge the Southern Hemisphere strangehold on rugby. Scotty Donaldson looks at the impact of this win and why it is great for the game.

A Tale Of Betrayal

2010-12-12T05:15:59Z

RSA Poppies made in Aussie from Chinese sourced materials

Ireland’s Financial Crisis: Opportunities Like These Don’t Come Around Often

2011-01-19T18:24:46Z

Much of Irish business is doing fine and the country has a healthy balance of payments surplus. But these are not enough to save an economy burdened by enormous bank debts that are State guaranteed. Some say senior bondholders should share the pain, other talk of default. A less drastic solution is within the grasp of the Irish themselves: reducing public sector pay to that level of the private sector. Is it possible?

Reaching Those Great Expectations - Myth or Reality?

2011-01-27T01:58:27Z

Social analyst Scotty Donaldson looks at how the media's portrayal of life encourages people to have unrealistically high expectations which they can't meet. This can cause people to have self esteem issues and lose the lust for life.

Dying For Power

2011-02-22T07:45:46Z

Phil Goff fools himself that most people have short memories.

Dyeing For Power

2011-02-22T09:37:28Z

Phil Goff tries to change his image

Pigeon Alert

2011-03-18T09:11:03Z

Slealth Bombers

Now it's law, how about some accuracy on the Marine and Coastal Area Bill

2011-03-24T12:08:19Z

the facts around what the Marine and Coastal Area Bill means to NZ and how it may...or may not affect Kiwis

The New Zealand Cricket Team Should Win A Halberg Award

2011-03-24T12:22:12Z

The New Zealand cricket team should be awarded a Halberg Award for their performance at the Cricket World Cup. Just look at the way the All Whites won it for their performances in the FIFA World Cup and I would suggest the Blackcaps have outperformed them.

Who Will Replace Richie McCaw? - The All Black Selection Dilemma

2011-04-01T10:27:33Z

With the Rugby World Cup just around the corner it is difficult to know who will replace captain Richie McCaw if the unthinkable happens and he gets injured. Scott Donaldson looks at the options available to All Black selectors.

Daniel Carter Backup Hardly Forthcoming - Who Would You Pick?

2011-04-05T13:07:12Z

Scott Donaldson looks at the available options as backup for Daniel Carter in the Number 10 All Blacks jersey. There are plenty of options, but who will the selectors pick?

Reading Cinemas Mystery Movie Revealed - Scream 4 Just Worth The Price of Admission

2011-04-08T13:45:09Z

The Reading Courtenay team put on a Mystery Movie charging $5 for a late night movie. See what happened once Scream 4 finally starting playing? Scott Donaldson reviews the event.

Hidden cost of royal wedding

2011-04-20T08:46:52Z

An irreverant look at who's really picking up the tab for the royal wedding.

Undercover (could'nt give a) Toss

2011-04-20T09:10:40Z

A review of TV show Undercover Boss shines spotlight on abuses in the name of the recession.

All Blacks Locking Department Looking Full - Injury Willing

2011-05-03T12:51:23Z

The All Black selectors have plenty of options for their Rugby World Cup squad in the locking department, but plenty will depend on injuries. Scott Donaldson looks at the options.

Carter Reaches Points Milestone - Will His Lack Of Drop Goals Cost the All Blacks the Rugby World Cup?

2011-05-22T10:37:36Z

Dan Carter has scored more Super Rugby points than test points by surpassing 1188 test points. He has scored over 2000 points combined in Super Rugby and tests, yet less than 30 come from drop goals. Will his lack of drop kicking cost the All Blacks the Rugby World Cup? Scott Donaldson explains.

Highlanders Green Strip Decision Separates Professionalism from Amateurism

2011-05-27T12:25:21Z

The decision to change the Highlanders uniform from the traditional blue, gold and maroon to light green show a movement away from the amateur traditions towards professionalism. Scott Donaldson looks at the widening gap.

If thoughts could kill...

2010-10-15T00:53:59Z

If thoughts could kill...an illustration by Falco.

Super Rugby Crowds - Why People Do and Don't Go To Matches

2011-06-11T05:13:42Z

Scott Donaldson looks at reasons why people do and don't attend Super Rugby 2011 matches.

The Highlanders Are Out of Super Rugby Contention - Are They An Improved Team on Previous Seasons?

2011-06-11T13:32:22Z

Are the Highlanders really any better than previous seasons? Scott Donaldson looks at how they are doing this year compared with previous seasons in recent times.

Usability is not astrophysics

2009-11-30T03:17:13Z

Opinion: are we letting ourselves down as modern consumers by accepting poor usability and design? Why do we defer to "usability experts" when we as consumers understand intimately what usability means?

Blocked internet disadvantages students

2010-02-02T23:22:43Z

How can we compete if staff and students of large organisations are routinely blocked from social websites and have few, if any, web tools to help them work efficiently online?

Outdoors Column: Bring back adventure for children

2010-03-08T01:42:03Z

Outdoors columnist Kingsley Field remembers what it was like to be a boy on a farm when he was young, and wonders how often boys today get the room to strike out and find their own boundaries.

Outdoors Column: Getting ready for the Roar

2010-03-08T01:36:16Z

Outdoors columnist Kinsgley Field finds out what smart hunters stash in their backpacks when they head into the bush come deer hunting season.

Outdoors Column: In praise of the harrier

2010-03-08T01:24:49Z

Outdoors columnist Kingsley Field writes about the harrier we so often see as we drive along highways and country roads but so seldom take the time to find out more about.

Outdoors Column: Duck Season

2010-03-08T01:08:14Z

Outdoors columnist Kingsley Field talks about duck shooting season and why tens of thousands of New Zealanders, aged 10 to 90, eagerly anticipate this time of year. Ideal for publication in early May.

Outdoors Column: Hunting for Hares

2010-03-08T00:52:16Z

Outdoor columnist Kingsley Field sets out at the beginning of the hunting season keeping his eye out for hares... and a dinner of hare back steaks.

New Horizons: Fonterra and Chinese land purchases

2010-05-10T06:17:10Z

What with drought, floods and fluctuating exchanges rates, many dairy farmers in are now having to think about where Fonterra is heading again. The prospect of a rapid increase in farm ownership by foreign businesses has also crept back onto the radar and this issue will be a mixed blessing for those starting up or leaving the industry.

Monikers Maketh More Milk

2010-05-12T03:54:11Z

Does naming cows help them be more productive? Dave Wolland finds there's a lot to be said for friendly milking shed.

The Devil came up to My Place

2010-05-12T05:49:33Z

An account of a short meeting with Satan. Possibly fictional.

Frost

2010-05-27T23:20:00Z

There's a special kind of clarity that comes with a frosty morning, writes Kingsley Field.

The Rats Tale (Country Critters No 1)

2010-05-26T03:11:31Z

The first of my 'Country Critters' series. Short humorous tales told by the animals themselves and plagiarized by me.

The Pig Picture (Country Critters no 2)

2010-05-26T03:17:36Z

Country Critters installment no 2. Humorous stories submitted by creatures of my acquaintance.

Mrs Rat Replies (Country Critters no 3)

2010-05-26T03:26:11Z

The touching story of two wild bush pigs that find a home with a farmer. Incorporates a moral about the pitfalls of civilization.

Outdoors Column: Rabbiting in the Hakarimata Ranges

2010-05-30T06:55:15Z

I was hoping to get myself one or several rabbits for the pot, and to do so I was soft-footing it along the edge of a large paddock of new grass that backed on to a big section of bush running up into the Hakarimata Ranges, west of Ngaruawahia.

Being Googled

2010-05-29T08:52:30Z

Google and Facebook invade people's privacy.

Still better floating

2010-06-07T04:02:20Z

It's quite possible that this time next week when you sit down to read your paper with a cup of coffee and some toast that you'll be asking yourself whether you can still afford the coffee and toast.

Stairways To Heaven

2010-06-07T04:08:49Z

Dave Wolland writes about the creation of artificial DNA.

Dead Rats in the Kitchen

2010-06-09T03:27:39Z

Story about the successful biological control of current rodent infestation.

The (long overdue) mom's self-esteem makeover

2010-04-26T21:57:00Z

It amazes me how many people have low self-esteem. It is the basis of happiness and success yet so many people lack it. Parents especially need to have a wonderful, balanced self esteem – if they don’t, how can they possibly nurture one in their children?

3D Or Not 3D?

2010-07-06T05:12:22Z

The hazards of buying a 3D TV.

Emissions Impossible

2010-07-16T04:58:38Z

Extending the ETS into prisons: "Non smokers could be given carbon credits and smokers forced to pay a carbon tax," writes Dave Wolland.

Why we all need to learn Mandarin

2010-07-26T20:43:51Z

We have two Chinese New Zealand MPs but we don't have Chinese faces on our television. There is no Mandarin spoken on National Radio or National television. Yet mandarin is set to become our second most spoken language within 15 years, writes Bernard Hickey.

Why Deflation vs Inflation matters

2010-08-03T03:09:09Z

Academic debates about history and economics send most people to sleep very quickly. It's like Mogadon without the drugs. But what if you could be more confident about fixing or floating your mortgage if you knew who would win these debates?

Getting older: the superannuation conundrum

2010-08-05T22:14:15Z

For as long as I can remember, there's been national angst over what to do about superannuation. But the best remedy has always been to... make the economy grow faster, writes Pattrick Smellie.

What does our driving say about our national character?

2010-08-16T00:51:40Z

Our national driving behaviour is at odds with the 'easy going' Kiwi character we present to the world. At best, it increases congestion. At worst, it reinforces our position as a social and cultural backwater, writes Nick Houldsworth.

ETS In The Bag

2010-08-13T09:30:49Z

Living with carbon trading: a column and cartoon by Dave Wolland.

North! Where The Rush Is On

2010-08-13T09:12:22Z

Surveying Northland for minerals. A column and cartoon by Dave Wolland.

Whacky Weka Woo!

2010-08-13T08:58:21Z

Farming NZ wildlife

Phil Gets Edgy

2010-08-20T04:57:17Z

Chris Carter's flight of fancy has probably done more to cement Phil Goff’s leadership than Goff has himself, but it won't be enough for Labour to win an election, writes Dave Wolland.

A controlling issue

2010-08-22T21:46:08Z

The issue of whether to make KiwiSaver compulsory is now firmly on the agenda after Prime Minister John Key gave the green light for a government-sanctioned Pensions and Saving Working group to look at the issue. But is New Zealand ready and willing, asks Bernard Hickey.

Let's get even better at starting businesses in New Zealand

2010-08-25T22:28:47Z

Starting a business in New Zealand is easy - the World Bank tells us we are the best around in their Doing Business rankings. But we can do even better, let's put three new things on the companies website: standard documents, official shareholder registers and basic governance tools.

Getting Ryalled

2010-08-26T23:57:08Z

NZ health minister Tony Ryall "Gets Smart". A column by Dave Wolland.

Clean Bowled

2010-08-27T02:08:43Z

WTO rules in NZ favour over access for NZ apples into Australia

The myopia of 'Save our Farms'

2010-09-07T00:30:10Z

The creation of the 'Save our Farms' campaign to block foreign ownership of New Zealand farm land has fired up a debate that needs to be had, writes business commentator Bernard Hickey.

She 'Aint Nothing But a Hound Dog

2010-09-03T07:29:46Z

If you had suggested to me ten years ago that I would one day own a dog, I can imagine myself saying, "You must be joking - no way!" Times change, writes Dave Wolland.

Financial Fiasco

2010-09-17T08:44:30Z

National Govt. bails out SCF. A column by Dave Wolland.

De-leveraging the 'new normal'

2010-09-20T05:41:36Z

Alan Bollard has essentially told us that the economy is all about the debt. Politics may also soon become all about the debt too, writes Bernard Hickey.

UFB’s ratty odour

2010-09-20T22:25:49Z

Forgive me if I’m wrong, but when various small town electricity networks get the priority nod for negotiations with Crown Fibre Holdings for involvement in the Government’s flagship broadband programme, a suspicious person smells a rat.

The science of eating.

2010-09-21T00:54:53Z

Does the method by which we shovel food into our hungry faces influence what we choose to eat? Asks Nick Houldsworth.

The free market god doesn't exist

2010-09-30T01:42:52Z

It's time for me to recant and to say what I've been thinking for months: the economic god of completely free markets and capital flows is not worth believing in anymore and we must look for other things to believe in and do.

Is New Zealand ready for the currency wars that are breaking out all over the globe?

2010-10-03T22:50:44Z

New Zealanders and our policymakers seem remarkably relaxed about the implications of the turmoil that threatens to push our currency through 80 USc in the coming months and destroy any exporters that are not reliant on booming commodity prices, writes Bernard Hickey.

Five ways to control the NZ$ and capital flows

2010-10-06T20:59:54Z

The efficient market hypothesis has been proved wrong. We now face international currency wars, mass money printing and the eventual restructuring of the global currency landscape, writes Bernard Hickey.

The problem with China

2010-10-10T05:46:02Z

It's worth looking at the economic forces behind China's great land grab that are creating such turmoil in global capital and currency markets. They highlight a great clash between the forces of capitalism and nationalism and between a rising global power in China and a declining global power in America, writes Bernard Hickey.

Getting Fresh

2010-10-07T22:50:25Z

Labour intends to remove GST of fresh fruit and vegetables. A column by Dave Wolland.

Let's embrace austerity and balance

2010-10-17T23:57:00Z

The 'new normal' is beginning to dawn on consumers and borrowers before it dawns on policymakers and the media, writes Bernard Hickey.

Let's get serious about fraud

2010-10-25T20:28:52Z

Confidence and trust in the financial architecture of a nation is a delicate and ephemeral thing. It's also crucial to the long term sustainability of any modern economy and society, writes Bernard Hickey.

John Key's week of street fighting

2010-10-31T21:34:08Z

The drama around Warner Bros' decision to film the Hobbit movies in New Zealand was focused on the union blacklist, but the drumbeat of background noise was all about the New Zealand dollar's rise vs the US dollar, writes Bernard Hickey.

Why NZ should ban commissions too

2010-11-09T21:50:43Z

New Zealanders have lost faith in financial advisors. That's the clear message in RaboDirect's Financial Confidence index for September, which showed confidence dropping again from a year ago, writes Bernard Hickey.

A Clever Ad Mate? Explaining sheep shaggers and VD

2010-11-09T23:27:56Z

Thanks to Speights and Toyota I've had to explain venereal disease and bestiality to my 8 and 10-year-old sons, writes Amanda Cropp.

The grand plan is in shreds

2010-11-15T19:01:05Z

How can New Zealand possibly rebalance our economy when our high value export sector is being demolished and businesses are not borrowing and investing?

Are property syndications the new finance companies?

2010-11-23T01:13:02Z

It's like the good old days all over again. Or the bad old days, depending on who you are, writes Bernard Hickey.

Something is brewing and it smells familiar

2010-12-08T06:33:29Z

In recent weeks something has started brewing again out in the depths of the New Zealand economy and it smells disappointingly familiar. The housing market has started to simmer again,and many of the same problems are repeating themselves, writes business commentator Bernard Hickey.

What it means for interest rates

2010-12-14T00:35:25Z

'The irony for the Reserve Bank is that this week's Monetary Policy Statement made clear that its monetary stimulus of a low Official Cash Rate is not having as much effect as expected because home owners are not adding to their already crushing debts.'

Politicians Get Hacked Off

2010-12-17T23:51:05Z

Julian Assange hacks off politicians

NZ's 'youthful' approach to debt

2010-12-20T02:15:49Z

The New Zealand government seems to be taking a young man's approach to debt at the moment and this is a dangerous thing to do as we age not-so-gracefully in an increasingly volatile economic world.

Of quakes, tsunamis and coincidence

2011-03-14T08:50:20Z

This is a personal story about the scariness of coincidence, quakes, tsunamis and "bioforests".

Let's stop kidding ourselves

2011-03-30T01:50:58Z

Our output did not increase in the second half of last year yet our spending in total and our wages rose over that period, as did population and spending per capita. So how did we manage that?

Still think social media is not for your company?

2011-05-11T13:07:16Z

Social media is no longer a luxury extra for small businesses to use as a promotional tool, it's where their customers expect to find them. This story outlines the case for small businesses to get on social media.

Stone Cold Bottoms

2011-06-09T23:25:40Z

A trip to a gallery with our pre-schoolers got me thinking about the value of art to our littlies.

The tactician and the bureaucrat

2011-06-18T04:31:17Z

For New Zealand's future, we need some long term strategy to build high-paid and interesting jobs that earn foreign exchange revenues so we can start growing our wealth as a country.

What the ouzo crisis means for us

2011-06-18T04:37:48Z

When borrowers and savers see the latest Greek riots or pictures of stressed stock market traders they should also think about a potential rise in borrowing costs and a possible slump in the global economy.

New Zealand needs feedback loops

2011-07-24T06:46:43Z

If only New Zealand had a national 'dumb debt' feedback loop we might actually have a chance of turning around the economy, writes economics commentator Bernard Hickey.

The Y Generation

2011-09-04T04:16:31Z

I look at the Y Generation, by a late Baby Boomer Generation

Guilty Pleasures

2011-09-04T04:25:02Z

A look at guilty pleasures

Conspiracy Theories

2011-09-04T04:30:22Z

Opinion piece that all conspiracy theories are just a conspiracy

Predicting The Future

2011-09-04T04:43:07Z

Opinion on Predictions Rugby games Tab odds

man Drought?

2011-09-04T04:46:54Z

Opinion on the suposed man drought and some womens efforts to find the perfect mate.

The world in 2020

2011-09-04T04:50:25Z

Humourish look at the world in the year 2020

Free Education For university Students- second Time Around

2011-09-04T05:49:08Z

Opinion on why current student loan system beats the old free education system

Internet Fraud becomes an icon

2011-09-05T04:04:25Z

A personal experiance of internet scams and why we should rename them.

Peer Pressure

2011-09-05T04:07:12Z

An opinion on peer pressure

travellers Tips for an OE

2011-09-05T05:06:10Z

Ten travellers tips for those travelling abroad

Is Lee Child's latest Worth Dying For?

2010-10-04T08:12:38Z

I check out the latest installment of the Jack Reacher franchise, and determine whether there's something special here or just business as usual.

The Commonwealth Games Are Over, But How Did We Do?

2010-10-14T11:35:00Z

We only finished 11th on the medal table at the Delhi Commonwealth Games but I think we surpassed our Melbourne haul and unearthed plenty of talent for the future in gaining 36 medals. But why didn't we win more gold medals?

Why Are So Many Women Addicted to New Zealand's Next Top Model?

2010-10-16T12:34:18Z

Every Friday night most women in my life are busy watching New Zealand's Next Top Model on television. I look at the reasons why women watch this show from a male perspective. Sure, they often moan about the contestants, outfits or judging, but I think one reason is that they are jealous.

Just useless

2011-01-11T03:38:52Z

A cautionary tale. There are many sharks in the waters of the Internet that are trying to appear friendly, but just want to take a big bite out of your wallet.

Seven Things I Have Noticed About The Supermarket Self Service Checkout

2011-03-19T02:36:23Z

Self service checkouts have popped up in supermarkets throughout New Zealand. They make life easy for some people but at the same time there are certain limitations or traits that I have noticed in recent times. Scott Donaldson sheds light on six of these issues.

Tantrums? You've got to change the focus

2010-03-16T03:35:53Z

Parenting columnist Rachel Goodchild offers some tried and tested techniques for handling toddlers' temper tantrums.

How to give your children real praise

2010-03-16T03:38:30Z

Some simple guidelines on how to give children effective praise, from parenting advice columnist Rachel Goodchild.

Lessons from a lemonade stand

2010-03-16T03:20:05Z

For those of you who want to raise a child who will one day be a business owner, or maybe an entrepreneur, it's important that you give them some of the skills they need early, writes parenting advice columnist Rachel Goodchild.

Not everything is beneficial when it comes to kids

2010-03-16T03:14:51Z

In this parenting advice column, Rachel Goodchild writes that sometimes parents have to let their children try and fail, and go without, if they are to learn the skills they'll need as adults.

There's more to manners than saying please

2010-03-16T02:50:11Z

One of the best gifts we can give to our children that will take them almost further than an excellent education or a desire to succeed is great manners, writes parenting advice columnist Rachel Goodchild.

Developing Your Child's EQ

2009-12-24T02:11:25Z

It's not IQ that's important - it's EQ, and it can be taught. How to set your child up for a lifetime of success by teaching them to have high levels of emotional intelligence.

Conversations in the car

2009-12-24T01:31:55Z

Traveling in the car with children can have its difficulties. It's not just the planning, it's the fact you can't escape from awkward questions.

Style Secrets from Small Children

2009-12-24T01:28:46Z

Think children have no idea how to put an outfit together? Think again. Many children have an innate awareness of what suits them as what doesn't - and perhaps we can learn a little something from their style tips.

Hitting the Target

2009-12-21T05:33:12Z

Not all students are born with the ability to write effectively, it is a skill that takes practice. Many people would like to know how to write better, but are unsure how to start, as it feels daunting. This article breaks it down into easy to understand steps for great results.

Stretching your Money Muscle

2009-12-21T05:09:33Z

With the cost of living skyrocketing, many students find that they need help to juggle their finances and still enjoy their student days. This article offers practical tips for students to help them stretch their dollar further and stay sane.

Speak Easy

2009-12-21T05:24:48Z

Most people's worst fear in life is public speaking, however it is not always possible to avoid it as a student. Find tips in this article for developing your confidence when you need to take the stand, because let's face it, it can be a very daunting prospect for most.

Tough Love

2009-12-21T05:16:47Z

Everyone experiences times when the rubber hits the road in a relationship. This article offers insight for students into how to navigate through the rough patches and offers practical tips for moving ahead.

The Power of Word of Mouth Advertising

2010-01-15T02:53:09Z

Find out what today's most powerful and cost-effective form of advertising is and how your business can capitalise on it.

Building great customer experiences

2010-01-14T02:01:40Z

In today's increasingly competitive market business must make a choice, continue to try and compete in a "world of sameness" or stand out from the crowd. Its a no-brainer really.

Does your business have what it takes?

2010-01-13T21:33:01Z

Is your business in a position to capitalise on the development of a unique customer experience as your competitive advantage?

A powerful formula for business success

2010-01-13T20:59:18Z

A formula for business growth and profitability in 2010. These are not times for business as usual, business must adopt a real customer focus

It's time for real change

2010-01-13T20:49:11Z

Business must understand that in today's market the customer is in charge. Unless a business has a complete customer focus in 2010, businesses will struggle.

Why Online Businesses Should be Blogging

2009-11-30T06:36:18Z

My husband and I were having a conversation with some friends about blogging and whether or not it was a viable marketing activity for online businesses. The discussion moved on to what types of businesses would benefit from a blog and what they could blog about. Together, we came up with a large number of potential blog niches and opportunities.

The Single Most Important Factor….

2010-04-26T21:55:36Z

Business needs to know what today's single most important factor for business success is, because in my experience most have no idea. In today's highly competitive market the power within an organisation has moved.

Is spoiling your kids bad parenting?

2010-04-26T21:44:27Z

There is a huge difference between being spoilt and being blessed and I believe it comes down to ‘an attitude of gratitude’, writes Allison O'Neill.

25 ways motherhood changed my life

2010-04-26T22:00:08Z

Some unexpected, some major cliches....

Don’t waste your energy on ‘mom guilt’

2010-04-26T21:48:22Z

I am shocked at how quickly a first-time mum learns what ‘mom guilt’ is. For me it started in hospital when the midwife took my newborn for a few hours to let me get my first bit of sleep in three days, writes Allison O'Neill.

The challenges of breastfeeding during pregnancy

2010-08-18T02:20:41Z

This article explores the safety of breastfeeding an older child during pregnancy, the common challenges experienced and some possible solutions.

Successful settlement in a new country

2010-08-18T02:45:29Z

A brief look at some of the basic steps one can take to smooth the transition experienced when moving to a new country.

10 things an author should never blog about

2010-08-18T01:59:31Z

International bestselling fantasy author, Jennifer Fallon, offers some sage (and tongue-in-cheek) advice to new authors about the perils of blogging.

Looking after yourself when there is just no time

2010-08-20T05:07:22Z

With families, careers and households, women are constantly trying to fit everything into insane schedules. There are also a proportion of people that try so hard to be perfect that anything less than the best results in depression and complete avoidance of the issue.

Slow Cooker Bliss

2010-09-20T04:24:26Z

Slow Cooker sales have boomed and a whole new generation of home executives is learning to use them. Why are they so popular and how could you get started with your own?

Baby? Check. Photographer? Check. Panic? . . .

2010-09-23T01:40:53Z

Seven tips for mums to ensure a successful and enjoyable in-home, baby portrait shoot.

Bad print ads that waste money

2010-10-23T04:35:05Z

"Freddie Starr ate my hamster" is an example of a great story headline. But looking through a selection of magazines and newspapers this week, I was struck by the large number of bad print ads that lack striking headlines or don't have headlines at all, writes Mark Irving.

Building a 3-D jigsaw of the shards from Canterbury’s china cabinets.

2010-12-06T00:26:24Z

Hundreds of cartons, baskets and bags containing millions of fragments of porcelain, glass, and bent silverware faced Christchurch valuers post earthquake. By building a mental 3-D jigsaw from the shards: they came, they saw, they valued…

The History of Buttons

2010-09-29T00:44:44Z

A brief history of the button and how buttons have evolved through the centuries. Includes a section on collecting buttons.

Good communication is key to handling stress

2011-03-21T01:05:36Z

People generally react to daily stress in one of three ways - acting out, burying or communicating about it. Rachel Goodchild offers some advice and observations on each.

How recycled art can help to save the world

2009-12-03T21:26:27Z

New thinking is required to address the mounting environmental problems we face. Art made from recycled materials serves as a powerful visual metaphor for these new paradigms - recycled, re-seen.

Keeping it Together at Home

2011-07-23T08:02:50Z

Five suggestions for women wishing to survive stay-at-home motherhood.

No Junk Mail Please

2011-12-01T22:12:57Z

Information filters firewalls and the hazards of fallen trees.

Average Joe on Climate Change

2009-12-10T15:50:15Z

As less than a layman, this is my take on what we can... or cannot do when it comes to climate change.

National Standards: What’s really going on?

2010-02-24T05:34:13Z

I was surprised to see my 5 year old daughter come home from school with an NZEI slogan on a sticker on her chest. I didn't have a full understanding of what National Standards are, so have spent the last few days figuring it out for myself

The speed camera, the fine, and my day in court

2010-04-13T04:43:27Z

Account of a day spent in court defending a speed camera fine: 'The presiding judges seemed to be genuinely interested in the people they were hearing. They tried hard to pay attention and understand them. I’d certainly encourage anyone who receives a traffic ticket within the Rodney area to defend it at Warkworth.'

Eat Your Crusts

2010-05-10T21:50:44Z

There are health dangers associated with acrylimide in baked, roasted and fried food, but luckily we have a huge range of food to choose from compared to our ancestors, writes Dave Wolland.

Money for Jam

2010-05-10T07:46:12Z

Contracting out council services - fictional satire.

Wheel of Fortune

2010-05-10T07:31:00Z

Introducing the idea of exchange rate parity as a way to create fair and free trade between nations.

The Corporate Way: Telecom’s Story

2010-05-12T06:26:20Z

A brief history of NZ telecommunications and a very opinionated review of its privatisation.

Sleep Working

2010-05-15T03:57:01Z

Dave Wolland gets to the bottom of an offer that landed in his mailbox to 'make money while you sleep'.

An Udder Controversy

2010-05-29T04:25:08Z

GE research in NZ fails. A viewpoint.

D-day

2010-06-07T04:33:52Z

A news cartoon by Malcolm Evans.

Holding on to hope

2010-06-13T00:49:35Z

Grant Aldridge reviews the book: 'My Journey with Farrah: A Story of Life, Love and Friendship' – written by Alana Stewart. Published by William Morrow – an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers. Released in paperback 22 June 2010 - one year after Farrah's death from cancer.

A journey worth taking - Farrah Fawcett's battle for life

2010-06-13T01:16:50Z

An in-depth review of the book: 'My Journey with Farrah: A Story of Life, Love and Friendship' – written by Alana Stewart. Published by William Morrow – an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers. Released in paperback 22 June 2010 - a year after Farrah Fawcett's death.

Having your say doesn't mean getting your way

2010-06-13T03:10:44Z

Grant Aldridge explores why 'consultation' is such a dirty word and unsatisfying for so many who get involved.

A new "F" word

2010-07-12T05:47:51Z

A mother comes to terms with her 10-year-old son's recent diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes.

Does rugby need a second referee?

2010-07-14T04:25:51Z

A look at the arguments for and against adding a second referee to the rugby field and how it might work.

An Athletic Depression

2010-08-26T00:56:34Z

Depression is a problem in New Zealand and I want to know what our athletes are doing about it.

Has the Anglo-Saxon peaked?

2010-09-08T04:37:44Z

For the past century, the Anglo-Saxons have dominated the world in just about every respect - economically, politically, culturally and even morally. But recent events have indicated that things may be about to change.

Living with Cancer

2010-08-28T01:54:33Z

From the shock of finding out you have cancer, to going into remission for going on eleven years. Dot Corke writes about her own experience with cancer.

EARTHQUAKE! A Beginner's Guide

2010-09-20T03:54:04Z

A first-hand account of the 2010 Christchurch earthquake.

A Buyer's Market?

2010-09-20T23:30:39Z

Times are tough for everyone at the moment. Is it a good time to buy a house? This is something we recently did, and this article talks about the results.

Eyes in India

2010-09-30T09:32:41Z

The writer, previously sure of her uncompromising feminist views, comes to a new understanding of the burqa. Against the current European trend that has surfaced in Australasia which views Muslim dress and veiling as the embodiment of male oppression, this article flips that view over, following an eye-opening experience while travelling in India.

WALKING THE WALK

2010-10-03T03:02:42Z

The curious business of travelling by Shanks' Pony in Auckland

Politicians need to keep their suits on and stay off the sports field

2010-10-28T08:19:14Z

There's nothing worse than seeing politicians step onto the sports field, often in national sports shirts. Please stay in the stands and leave the field to the stars. John Key, John Howard and Nelson Mandela have all crossed the line in recent years.

Is there room for etiquette in professional sport these days?

2010-11-04T10:29:02Z

A recent incident in the Tour of Southland left people wondering if the practice of displaying sportsmanship and etiquette in the heat of competition is still relevant these days. Scott Donaldson suggests that nice guys get walked over too much with poor refereeing decisions and usually finish last so need to make the most of opportunities that present themselves.

10 ways to stop the cyclist killings

2010-11-18T02:06:19Z

A response to the recent spate of cyclist fatalities

Habitual sin

2010-11-23T08:24:05Z

Ever get the sense that you have less control over your behaviour than you should? Sometimes it feels like I’m battling a five-year-old version of myself, one ready to sneak in bad habits whenever my guard is down.

My brother was shot in the head on a Monday night

2010-11-23T22:01:19Z

First-person account of my brother's death and thoughts on how the media treat death and grieving families.

Bad Brains

2010-11-29T06:18:48Z

The elephant in the room - why is driver education in New Zealand being ignored?

Frankly, you get up my nose

2010-12-14T05:47:03Z

How to insult a chef with perfume.

Life without the box

2011-01-06T01:12:22Z

Summer days seem even longer when the TV has been banished to the wardrobe...

Who's the barking one here?

2011-01-06T21:16:33Z

I'm not just having a whine here, but something really has to be done about dog ownership and responsibilities in New Zealand.

Sensible sentencing - calling a spade a spade

2011-01-06T21:27:31Z

Most people see problems with our system of justice and especially sentencing. There are always calls for tougher legislation, but there are already adequate penalties for most offences. One problem seems to be the 1984 style doublespeak that surrounds sentencing while the short term thinking of judges and and the subsequent tinkerings by the parole board complete the dysfunctional picture.

Cutting out the scalpers

2011-01-06T22:20:27Z

Governments are good at responding to public opinion and appearing to enact legislation to deal with their concerns, but so often the law only goes half way and many of the activities it purports to deal with are left unaffected by it. The Major Events Management Act 2007 is a good example of this.

Safety in numbers?

2011-01-06T22:23:25Z

Lies, damned lies and statistics. This is an opinion piece about occupational safety and health practices in the New Zealand workplace. The picture you get depends upon which numbers you deem significant.

Feeding the world

2011-01-06T22:26:25Z

We could do it , but time is running out for New Zealand to create for itself an opportunity that could turn our economy around and set us up for a great future. But if a concerted effort is not made very soon it will slip through our fingers and somebody else will sieze the opportunity.

The Bay - Our "Body" of Water

2011-02-09T08:24:52Z

We can use the analogy of the human body to refer to Lyall Bay and the rugged South Coast of Wellington. Just as we take ourselves to the GP for annual health checks, the relative health of the coastline needs to be regularly assessed and monitored.

Funeral planning - who should be involved?

2011-02-25T05:13:37Z

Planning a funeral helps us move through the beginnings of grieving healthily. Getting in touch with all the feelings that such planning exposes is painful but helpful, writes Heather Hapeta.

Is Nuclear Energy the way Forward?

2011-03-16T22:25:21Z

With the catastrophic events currently unfolding in Japan, is it time to look again at the use and proliferation of nuclear power throughout the world?

WHO do you give to?

2011-04-01T04:08:14Z

Grant Aldridge explores how non-profit marketing affects the connections we make to social causes and how that impacts on our giving behaviours. He suggests some lessons for non-profits seeking support from individuals like him, who know what they are doing is kind of irrational, but do it anyway.

What can I do?

2011-04-01T04:55:27Z

One homesick Cantabrian with few practical skills wonders how to help the people of Christchurch.

Reality show challenges ideas of charity

2011-04-01T04:01:26Z

Grant Aldridge explores whether concepts behind the reality TV series 'How the Other Half Live' could be put into action here in New Zealand. The TV programme profiles rich and poor families involved in charity sponsorship relationships in the United Kingdom – enabling the families to meet and explore the impact of the donations made.

Is it good enough to give?

2011-04-01T04:12:39Z

Grant Aldridge ponders why some household items are suitable for him but not for donating to strangers; and pines for a lost lawnmower he didn't use.

A News of the World rat Down Under

2011-07-17T23:23:15Z

The pussycats and the rats - A Kiwi reporter's experience as a News of the World's "rat" Down Under.

Digital Communications: Green Technology that’s Transforming the World and Saving the Planet

2011-11-03T16:33:37Z

Some things are all around us, yet are hardly noticed – a case of not seeing the forest for the trees. One of the greatest legacies of Digital Communications is likely to be one we are barely aware of: its positive impact of our environment. This article looks at this ubiquitous technology and its significant, though often unappreciated green credentials.

Looking back to the Foreshore and Seabed hikoi of 2004, and the act that is now facing repeal

2009-11-24T05:31:03Z

With the Foreshore and Seabed Act facing repeal, Nathan Hoturoa Gray remembers his experience of the country's second major land march in 2004, and the way the Labour Government dealt with the unified complaints made by Maori.