There is a curious choreography in the public life of Aotearoa New Zealand. Political leaders are not often seen in social media feeds with photographs from ordinary Sunday church congregations. Such images may suggest denominational favour, religious alignment, or proximity to organised Christian conservatism. Yet the same leaders appear quite comfortably at mosques, mandirs, gurdwaras, … Continue reading Ethnic Leadership and Ethic of Guardianship
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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
Culture at the Top
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