Articles in ‘Current Affairs’

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has opened consultation on what would be the first government-backed digital NZ currency. The consultation is open until July 26. Amidst the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s proposition of a pioneering government-backed digital currency, a profound question emerges: at what cost does progress come? The envisaged Reserve Bank Digital Currency (RBDC) heralds a new era of financial convenience and accessibility,…

Summary · The conversation explores the potential impact of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) on the economy and the role of banks. The guest argues that CBDCs would lead to a dystopian scenario and a Soviet-style economy. He criticizes the current economic models used by central banks, stating that they do not consider banks or money. The guest explains that banks create money out of nothing and that governments do not create money but…

Michelle Makori, Lead Anchor and Editor-in-Chief at Kitco News, interviews Andrew Henderson, founder of Nomad Capitalist, who says the “American dream is dead.” He discusses why it is worth adopting a global citizen philosophy to get access to the safest banks and best passports. Henderson breaks down geographic locations regarding investment benefits, banks, and geopolitical safety. He weighs in on the latest moves in gold and Bitcoin.…

By: Democracy Action In July/August 2023 the Tūpuna Maunga Authority destroyed around 60 healthy mature trees on Ōtāhuhu Mt Richmond, just because they were not native. And it has said it is coming back for more. The Authority applied for a non-notified resource consent to chop down 278 exotic trees on the maunga, nearly half of its entire forest canopy. Ōtāhuhu locals and people from the wider Auckland community say they are shocked at this…

With Winter upon us I am often asked what is the best way to prevent those pesky infections that plague so many of us this time of the year. This article is split into 3 parts. Part 1 will cover some general immune boosting strategies. Part 2 will discuss some immune boosting supplements and Part 3 will describe some strategies if you do succumb to winter ills. Most patients I see are unaware of the various options to prevent and treat…

The overall winners of the 2024 Sony World Photography Awards have been revealed. This year’s selection of images showcases a sublime mixture of unspoiled landscapes, amazing animals, and extraordinary people going about their lives. Now in its 17th year, the Sony World Photography Awards celebrates powerful photographs that resonate with audiences worldwide. Read on for a look at some competition standouts.. · The prestigious Photographer of…

Over the first half of the 20th century the world saw growing rates of heart disease mortality. From the 1920s to the 1960s more and more people were dying from heart attacks. It was described as an epidemic of heart disease. But in the mid-1960s heart disease mortality suddenly plateaued. In the United States, for example, around 35% of overall deaths could be attributed to cardiac causes in 1966. From that point on heart attack mortality…

I have long been a critic of the blanket reduction of speed limits across the wider Franklin area by Auckland Transport (AT). Under their Safe Speeds programme, AT carried out speed limit reductions on over 200 roads in Franklin, 33 of which they identified as having a high risk of death or serious injuries occurring. These roads were reduced from 100 kph outside of town centres and settlements to 80 kph and in some places (past schools, for…

Will There Be Practical Changes to the National Policy Statement on Fresh Water? Summary · In this conversation, Mykeljon Winckel speaks with Bryce McKenzie from Groundswell about the changes in government and their impact on farmers. They discuss the shift from a government that didn’t listen to farmers to one that is more receptive. They highlight the changes in regulations, particularly the national policy statement on fresh water, and…

The conversation between Mykeljon Winckel and Sue Grey explores the theme of reputation over humanity and the lack of accountability in corporate and government decision-making. They discuss examples such as the British Post Office case and the compulsory fluoridation of drinking water in New Zealand. They highlight the importance of questioning and challenging the system, as well as the need for community engagement and unity. The conversation…