November 2025’s police-misconduct news did not surprise me. It felt familiar, almost expected. Social media quickly pinned on whichever government last made the senior appointments. But policing in Aotearoa New Zealand has a longer story. And when top cops fail, the institution drifts slow, steady, and always downward. Decades of inquiries show this clearly. This … Continue reading Culture at the Top
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The Illusion of Cohesion
Britain’s post-war migration experience shows how integration can produce visible success stories without guaranteeing deep social cohesion. The rise of leaders like Rishi Sunak and Sadiq Khan, both children of immigrants, both reaching the highest rungs of public life is often held up as proof of an open, meritocratic society. Yet even their success has … Continue reading The Illusion of Cohesion
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
