Covid inquiry legal advice for Dame Jacinda Ardern, Chris Hipkins, Grant Robertson, Ayesha Verrall cost taxpayer $70k
Crown Law has confirmed. The legal advice was given between May and July this year in relation to the second phase of the Covid inquiry. The four former ministers have cooperated with the inquiry, but declined to appear at public hearings.
The reimbursement rules: It is usual process for the Crown to pay the legal costs of ministers or former ministers in proceedings or inquiries that spin out of their current or previous duties. A spokesman for Ardern told the Herald that the budget, costs and terms of reference of the second phase of the inquiry were set by Cabinet and were a matter for the Government. "Dame Jacinda is using shared legal representation to lower any legal costs, and continues to work with the commission to achieve its terms of reference."
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Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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39.7% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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58.5% No, I enjoy it
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1.8% Other - I'll share below
Have a look at other countries …
The Danish. The Chinese. Even the Australians FFS! Only Luxon, Trump & Co don't get it …
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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