Spirited Conversations
Wednesday 25 October
STEVEN GRAY
"Democracy in Trouble? Insights from a Democracy promoter".
After the fall of the Iron Curtain, it appeared that democracy was in ascendancy. From 1995 to 2017 foreign aid specialist Steven Gray worked in 14 countries on democracy promotion projects. With our own elections front of mind, he will lead the discussion about how New Zealand compares to lower-income countries in transition to democratically elected government.
Steven's speciality was providing expertise in participatory management, strategic planning, training and program evaluation to community-based and governmental organizations. He will highlight his experience in building capacity for free and fair elections in Eastern Europe, Africa, and Asia.
When? Wednesday 25 October, 7.30-9.30pm
Where? Cafe Yaza, Montgomery Square, Nelson,
Yaza opens for dining/drinks 6.00pm - conversation
Come and discuss, eat, drink, listen, question and comment.
Treat yourself and support our partners Yaza Cafe at the same time. Come early and try their 'Spirited Conversations' menu!
Koha to cover costs – no reservations.
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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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
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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