Two Sikh parades in Aotearoa New Zealand were recently confronted with haka performed in an overtly antagonistic manner. These were not spontaneous gatherings or informal street events. Sikh parades are planned months in advance. Permissions are sought well ahead of time from Police, city councils, and transport authorities. Routes are approved, traffic management plans are … Continue reading When culture is weaponised
Current Affairs
Voting Papers Arrive
Voting papers are in the post for the local elections. A thick envelope, a scattering of wards and constituencies across Wellington to be marked in pencil and sealed away. On the last page rests the question of the Māori ward and constituency; whether they should continue. My instinct has always been to say yes. Tangata … Continue reading Voting Papers Arrive
The Maturing of MMP
Many say that Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) representation has not worked in Aotearoa New Zealand. Critics point to hung parliaments, messy compromises, and policy drift. Yet the current coalition offers a counter-narrative: it shows how MMP has matured. Coalition partners, whether small or mid-sized, are not just supporting acts rather they are shaping the script. … Continue reading The Maturing of MMP
Faultline Report 