Phoney Policies
Does the National party actually have any real policies? We are beginning to wonder. Aside from taking a hatchet to anything that Labour has introduced, and banning, cutting and scrapping a wide range of entitlements, have they actually got anything remotely original?
So far, all I'm hearing are platitudes and Trumpisms.
Perhaps they don't want an informed electorate (they might see through them) but instead want to force people to vote on sentiment alone. We are still waiting to hear how they intend to fund their much touted tax cuts. Despite the fact that the same scenario was hastily withdrawn by the Tories in the UK last year, on the grounds that it would engender financial collapse, the Nats are pressing ahead with it. In the absence of any details we can only assume the worst. That it will come out of vote Education, Health and Social Welfare, putting more money in the pockets of people who are already wealthy and increasing inequalities, poverty, poor health and all the crime and substance dependence that goes with it.
As for banning cellphones. Our view is that schools are more than capable of setting their own policies regarding cell phone use at school. They don't need the government telling them what to do. There are more pressing issues in the teaching sector. And teachers will not be looking forward to teaching a class with hungry children if National removes the food in schools program as stated. Its a lose-lose situation.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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79% Yes
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19.9% No
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin
In an exciting development for local spirits enthusiasts, Elsewhere Gin has released a limited edition Kapiti expression that truly captures the essence of our coastal region.
This unique gin, priced at $95 per bottle, is the result of a heartwarming collaboration between Elsewhere Gin and Mark Rose's parents and their friends in Kapiti who embarked on a community foraging adventure, handpicking an array of native botanicals including kohekohe, kauri tips, strawberry guava, horopito, and kawakawa. These locally sourced ingredients were combined with classic gin botanicals, lemon, and rosemary to create a spirit that is both familiar and distinctly Kapiti.
The gin offers a sensory journey through our coastal landscape. It opens with subtle vanilla notes from the kohekohe, followed by the sweetness of strawberry guava. The addition of horopito lends a peppery kick, while kawakawa adds a unique herbal complexity. The finish showcases the zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary that grow abundantly in our region.
"This gin is a love letter to Kapiti," says Rose. "It's not just my creation, but a true community effort. Every sip tells a story of our unique ecosystem, our shared knowledge, and the incredible flavors we have right here in our backyard."
With only a small batch produced, this Kapiti gin is expected to sell out quickly. It's more than just a drink; it's a bottled experience of our local terroir and community spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the finer aspects of craft spirits and the beauty of our coastal home.
Available exclusively through Elsewhere Gin, please contact Michael Anderson for this limited edition gin that offers a rare opportunity to taste the Kapiti coast - and its community - in a glass.
Michael Anderson
021 620 065
Email; michael.anderson@xtra.co.nz
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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