Thank you for using Neighbourly
With a critical 4 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the absolute deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" needs to be a final, urgent call to prevent irreversible negative impacts:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill threatens to … View moreWith a critical 4 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the absolute deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" needs to be a final, urgent call to prevent irreversible negative impacts:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill threatens to fundamentally alter the very essence of New Zealand's governance by prioritising private interests and economic efficiency over our collective well-being, environmental integrity, and the sacred principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. With only 4 days to act, this is your last direct opportunity to stand against a bill that could bind future generations to a narrow, ideological framework, and to ensure that the future of Aotearoa is shaped by the will of its people, not by a select few. Make your submission now."
The urgency cannot be overstated. Here's a summary of the grave concerns that make these final days so crucial:
Undermining Te Tiriti o Waitangi: This is a paramount concern. The bill's deliberate omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria, despite the Waitangi Tribunal's ruling that the Crown has already breached Treaty principles in the bill's development, is seen as a direct attack on the Treaty. This could lead to laws that actively disregard Māori rights and interests, and further erode the partnership envisioned by Te Tiriti.
The "Regulatory Takings" Trap - A Staggering Cost to Public Good: This is perhaps the most insidious aspect. The clause allowing for compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits) could expose the government to massive lawsuits. Imagine the financial burden on taxpayers if environmental protections (e.g., preventing pollution, protecting native forests), public health measures (e.g., regulating harmful substances), or even vital infrastructure projects are challenged for compensation by those whose commercial interests are affected. This creates a severe "chilling effect," making it incredibly difficult for future governments to enact necessary regulations for the collective good.
Eroding Democratic Accountability and Flexibility: Critics argue the bill aims to create an unelected Regulatory Standards Board and a Minister for Regulation with unprecedented power to impose a narrow, ideologically driven framework on all future legislation. This effectively reduces the ability of democratically elected governments to respond to the evolving needs, values, and crises facing New Zealanders, creating a rigid "regulatory constitution" that could stifle progress.
Prioritising Profit Over Planet and People: The bill's strong emphasis on economic efficiency and individual liberties is feared to come at the expense of crucial societal values such as environmental sustainability, social equity, and human rights. It's a clear signal that, under this framework, economic gain could consistently outweigh collective well-being.
The overwhelming opposition from the public (88% of 23,000 submissions in an earlier consultation were against the Bill, 11.67 were undecided, 0.33% were in favour of the Bill) shows widespread alarm. This select committee process is the final, direct avenue for the public to make their voices heard.
Don't let the complexity deter you. Even a simple submission expressing your opposition and highlighting one or two key concerns is powerful.
A very easy submission builder can be found here:
hapai.co.nz...
If you want further reading resources Melanie Nelson and Dr Ryan Ward have provided a submission tool and website.
Explore the tool here: tinyurl.com...
A submission guide for those wanting to make simpler, personal submissions can be found here. tinyurl.com...
Check out this excellent resource from lawyer Tania Waikato. She lays out 50 things you could say in your submission:
ugc.production.linktr.ee...
Many thanks
Following on from "Playing with Anger" and "Speak where you stand" join this 3-part empowerment workshop to harness the wisdom of your feelings and create what you long for.
No prior experience necessary
Saturdays 10am-12pm - June 28th, July 5th, and 12th.
Nelson … View moreFollowing on from "Playing with Anger" and "Speak where you stand" join this 3-part empowerment workshop to harness the wisdom of your feelings and create what you long for.
No prior experience necessary
Saturdays 10am-12pm - June 28th, July 5th, and 12th.
Nelson Women's Centre - 44 Trafalgar Street, The Wood, Nelson
Register/Info: life@julia-neumann.com or 027 234 0054
$60 (sliding scale or payment plans on request)
Why it pays to compare plans
Did you know over 90% of New Zealanders who compare power plans find savings—often around $400 a year? Comparing power plans is quick and easy with a free online tool—it takes just five minutes and won’t disrupt your supply. A simple switch could lead to real … View moreWhy it pays to compare plans
Did you know over 90% of New Zealanders who compare power plans find savings—often around $400 a year? Comparing power plans is quick and easy with a free online tool—it takes just five minutes and won’t disrupt your supply. A simple switch could lead to real savings. Click here to compare
To save more, match your power plan to your lifestyle. If you're home during the day, a 'time of use' plan could cut costs by using power during off-peak hours. Tailoring your plan to your routine helps keep more money in your pocket.
Head to the Electricity Authority’s website, where they offer free tools to help you compare and switch plans with ease. With so many New Zealanders already saving up to $400 a year, there’s no reason to wait. Smart power choices start here, and the benefits can last all year long.
Take charge of your electricity costs and see how much you could save today. You might just wonder why you didn’t switch sooner.
Cooking class - hosted by Toni McKee.
Basic and nutritious meals.
6-week course $5 - $20 per session based on what you can afford.
Take food home with you afterwards. Tips and Tricks for making affordable, nutritious meals with a focus on sustainability and skills.
Wednesdays from 10am-1pm in… View moreCooking class - hosted by Toni McKee.
Basic and nutritious meals.
6-week course $5 - $20 per session based on what you can afford.
Take food home with you afterwards. Tips and Tricks for making affordable, nutritious meals with a focus on sustainability and skills.
Wednesdays from 10am-1pm in the Nelson Women's Centre Kitchen.
44 Trafalgar Street, Starting Wednesday 2nd July.
Contact Toni on 027 431 6841 or mistielleinnz@gmail.com to book your spot. Spaces are limited.
Dear neighbours, after reading about our search for New Zealand's most impressive and artistic wood piles in the May 2025 issue, Auckland's Anne Stephens Whitcombe sent us this photo that she had snapped while on holiday in Norway. Have you put together a wood pile that's just as … View moreDear neighbours, after reading about our search for New Zealand's most impressive and artistic wood piles in the May 2025 issue, Auckland's Anne Stephens Whitcombe sent us this photo that she had snapped while on holiday in Norway. Have you put together a wood pile that's just as impressive, or even more so? Send us a photo! Email: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. You could be in to win a Fiskars X36 splitting axe L blade and a Fiskars X14 universal axe. We're looking for wood piles of impressive size or of particular space efficiency or even an artistic vision!
If you need information a good start would be to watch the video below:
melanienelson.substack.com...
With a mere 5 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the hard deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" must be a direct appeal to civic duty … View moreIf you need information a good start would be to watch the video below:
melanienelson.substack.com...
With a mere 5 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the hard deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), the "thought of the day" must be a direct appeal to civic duty and the urgent need for action:
"This is it. With only 5 days remaining, the Regulatory Standards Bill stands on the precipice of fundamentally altering New Zealand's legal landscape, with profound implications for environmental protection, democratic accountability, and the very fabric of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Your submission is no longer just an option, but a vital imperative to safeguard the collective future of Aotearoa against a bill widely condemned as dangerous and anti-democratic. Make your voice resonate before the opportunity passes."
Here's why the urgency is paramount:
Final Call for Public Input: The select committee process for public submissions is closing soon. This is the last direct and formal chance for the public to influence the bill's content before it moves closer to becoming law.
A "Treaty Principles Bill 2.0": Legal experts and Māori leaders are explicitly calling this bill "Treaty Principles Bill 2.0" due to its explicit omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria. The Waitangi Tribunal has already found the Crown in breach of Treaty principles during its development, making this a deeply concerning blow to the Crown's obligations to Māori.
The "Regulatory Takings" Threat is Real: This clause, which could mandate compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits), is a significant risk. It could lead to costly lawsuits against the government, effectively creating a "chilling effect" that discourages vital regulations for public good, such as those protecting waterways from pollution, regulating carbon emissions, or protecting biodiversity. Imagine the cost to taxpayers, or the inability to address pressing environmental crises.
Undermining Democratic Governance: Critics argue the bill aims to centralise power in an unelected Regulatory Standards Board and the Minister for Regulation, imposing a narrow, ideologically driven framework on all future legislation. This could severely limit the ability of future elected governments to respond to the evolving needs and values of New Zealanders, hindering true democratic responsiveness.
Ignoring Overwhelming Public Opposition: A previous consultation period reportedly saw 88% of 23,000 submissions opposing the bill, 11.67% undecided and just 0.33% actually in favour of the Bill. A strong wave of new submissions is crucial to reinforce this widespread public concern to the parliamentary committee.
Don't be deterred by the perceived complexity. Even a brief submission clearly stating your opposition and outlining one or two key concerns (e.g., impact on Te Tiriti, "regulatory takings," or democratic accountability) is valuable.
A very quick submission builder can be found here:
hapai.co.nz...
Thank you
For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of … View moreFor the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of trust is what sets us apart.
Who's having a clear out this long weekend? You, your sister a next door neighbour, if you are pop into the Red Cross Shop on Vanguard St and grab some banana boxes to fill up and return them full.
We are in desperate need of good quality women's winter clothing, homewares, sheets… View moreWho's having a clear out this long weekend? You, your sister a next door neighbour, if you are pop into the Red Cross Shop on Vanguard St and grab some banana boxes to fill up and return them full.
We are in desperate need of good quality women's winter clothing, homewares, sheets and blankets. We have been so busy we are dangerously low over all these categories.
We are open for your convenience on Friday 9-5.
We would really appreciate your donations as would our community.
With just 6 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the firm deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), "thoughts of the day" underscore the immediate threat and the imperative to act:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill, with its potentially sweeping consequences for our … View moreWith just 6 days left to submit on the Regulatory Standards Bill (the firm deadline is June 23, 2025, at 1 PM NZST), "thoughts of the day" underscore the immediate threat and the imperative to act:
"The Regulatory Standards Bill, with its potentially sweeping consequences for our environment, the rights of Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the very foundation of democratic law-making, is now at a critical precipice. With only 6 days remaining, every submission amplifies the public's voice against a bill widely considered dangerous and ill-conceived. Don't let this final window close without contributing to the defence of New Zealand's shared values and future."
Here's a concise summary of why urgent action is needed:
Treaty Breaches Confirmed: The Waitangi Tribunal has already found the Crown breached Treaty principles in the Bill's development due to a lack of meaningful consultation with Māori. The Bill's continued advancement without addressing this, and its explicit omission of Te Tiriti principles from its "good law-making" criteria, is a profound concern for anyone who values the Treaty.
"Regulatory Takings" - A Financial and Regulatory Straitjacket: This is a major point of contention. The clause that could mandate compensation if regulations "take or impair" property (including potential profits) creates a powerful disincentive for governments to enact vital regulations. Imagine the cost to taxpayers if environmental protections, public health measures, or even building standards could be challenged for compensation by those whose profits are affected. This could lead to a "chilling effect" on regulations, making it harder to protect our collective interests.
A "Regulatory Constitution" by Stealth: Legal experts warn that the Bill aims to establish a set of narrow, ideologically driven principles that would effectively act as a "regulatory constitution." This could severely limit the ability of future elected governments to make laws that reflect the evolving needs and values of New Zealanders, thereby undermining democratic flexibility and responsiveness.
Prioritising Private Over Public Good: Critics argue that the Bill's emphasis on individual liberties and property rights, particularly in the context of "economic efficiency," risks subordinating broader societal goals like environmental protection, social equity, and collective well-being.
The fact that an earlier consultation saw overwhelming opposition (88% of 23,000 submissions opposing, 11.67% undecided, 0.33% in favour) highlights the significant public concern. This select committee stage is the last direct opportunity for the public to influence the outcome of this Bill.
Time is running out. Even a brief submission stating your opposition and outlining one or two key concerns is valuable.
The simplest submission builder to lodge your submission in as little as 10 minutes can be found on here:
hapai.co.nz...
Hāpai te Hauora (Maori Public Health)
Many thanks
Discover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Build your capacity and develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. In this weekly course you will
• Gain deeper self-awareness and understand yourself better by learning what motivates … View moreDiscover ways to live your life with more authenticity and spontaneity. Build your capacity and develop your ability to respond effectively to old situations or new challenges. In this weekly course you will
• Gain deeper self-awareness and understand yourself better by learning what motivates your behaviour.
• Empower yourself and discover new ways to act in the here-and-now.
• Overcome the obstacles and challenges to living your life with freedom, vitality and authenticity.
We will use psychodrama to explore themes relevant to you and the group. Psychodrama is an enlivening action group method where you can gain new perspectives and insights by setting out scenes from your life using things and other people. It will assist you to develop your spontaneity and creativity in all areas of your life.
No acting experience is required.
WHEN: 6x Thursday mornings - July 17th, 24th, 31st, (break), Aug 14th, 21st, 28th.
WHERE: Nelson Women's Centre - 44 Trafalgar Street
COST: Sliding scale cost of $120-180 (can be paid weekly $25-$30 p/w).
CONTACT: 027 276 5592 or awatersong@gmail.com
For more information on the facilitator: aliwatersong.co.nz...
Stats NZ said food prices have been rising at their fastest rate in more than a year.
Drinking chocolate is now 27% more expensive, coffee is up 17% and 1kg of mince was $2 more expensive this March than it was the same time last year.
Dairy products have also increased astronomically in … View moreStats NZ said food prices have been rising at their fastest rate in more than a year.
Drinking chocolate is now 27% more expensive, coffee is up 17% and 1kg of mince was $2 more expensive this March than it was the same time last year.
Dairy products have also increased astronomically in price. Milk prices are up by 15.1% in the last year, cheese by 24% and butter has risen up by a shocking 63.6%.
Are you feeling the pinch lately? Share what you've noticed in the comments below and whether it makes you change your shopping habits.
Then you've come to the right place! Whether you need a brand new website, or want help with an existing website - I'll make sure you can EASILY change text and images all by yourself. FIXED PRICING starts at $599, up to $1500 for a full-fledged ecommerce (online shop) website.
MY … View moreThen you've come to the right place! Whether you need a brand new website, or want help with an existing website - I'll make sure you can EASILY change text and images all by yourself. FIXED PRICING starts at $599, up to $1500 for a full-fledged ecommerce (online shop) website.
MY REVIEWS SAY IT ALL – "a life saver from start to finish" – "a perfect choice" – "an absolute wizard at creating fantastic websites"– "listened to our ideas & made us this excellent website"…
ALL 5-STAR REVIEWS and UNBELIEVABLY LOW PRICES!
Get that new website that you've been meaning to get round to – or update your current one.You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain from a free, no-strings-attached friendly phone chat about what you think you want in your website. It's time to do it!
Perhaps a bit nervous about what's involved? Are you a small business deciding to get yourself online with a website? Or not happy with your current website? Let me help you get online customers… and I guarantee you a pain-free process. I understand small business because I've run my own for 20+ years… as well as being a web and small-business expert, with excellent reviews!
FIXED PRICES- must be the best around! Get your very own professional website for just $599 simple one page, to $1500 for a catalogue website or an ecommerce site where customers or clients can buy AND even pay online. Or get a Google business page for just $90. … and YES l'll help you to learn how to make your own changes to your new website, pain-free! Or even update your old tired website…
I'll make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way –AND I'll also make sure that you're comfortable adding content yourself to your new website! Do check out my website and see my 5-star reviews, as well as more websites I've made, here: imonline.nz (just google this) and then contact me to set up a free NO-STRINGS ATTACHED phone consultation.
How our Government is Fast-Tracking a Canadian Mining Company's plans to dig a motorway sized tunnel under a native forest. (Duration 6 mins) 10/6/2025
Please watch the video here:
bryanbruce.substack.com...
Our own Te Waikoropupū Springs in Golden Bay are under similar threats from … View moreHow our Government is Fast-Tracking a Canadian Mining Company's plans to dig a motorway sized tunnel under a native forest. (Duration 6 mins) 10/6/2025
Please watch the video here:
bryanbruce.substack.com...
Our own Te Waikoropupū Springs in Golden Bay are under similar threats from foreign owned gold mining operations. The Fast Track Bill in association with David Seymour's Regulatory Standards Bill is a disaster for our environment.
Please make a submission on the Regulatory Standards Bill.
Hi all
If you're handy with appliances or know how they work....FREE to a good home including hoses etc....spin cycle needs attention may be an easy fix for someone...been a great little machine I just upgraded..
© Neighbourly 2026
Loading…