Aotearoa New Zealand is land-rich but scale-poor. That is both our blessing and our bind. We have pasture, coastline, geothermal heat, forests, rainfall. What we do not have is scale; not in population, not in capital markets, not in proximity to large demand centres. For generations we made land do the heavy lifting. Refrigeration turned … Continue reading Land-Rich, Scale-Poor
New Zealand
When culture is weaponised
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
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
In recent months, a particular minister has been especially visible in conversations about the future of schooling. His advocacy for charter schools is well known, and his regular visits to primary classrooms are often framed as opportunities to share ideas, read stories, and engage with young learners. There is nothing unusual about ministers visiting schools; … Continue reading Lessons Beyond the Classroom