Business of Government: know your rights edition

Business of Government: know your rights edition
What's the connection between these pioneers of punk rock and a pioneering NZ law? (Image: Getty)
Jem Traylen
Your right to knowThis is a public service announcement (without guitar*) – know your rights!Number one – you have the right to know what government officials know unless there’s an overriding public interest in it being kept from you.This is thanks to the Official Information Act (OIA) – a gift from generations now so out of vogue that they even lack an alphabetised moniker.In the early 80s, while certain punk rock pioneers were writing a cynical take on the state of civil rights, in the antipodes, legislative pioneers...

More Policy

Independent costings needed for tough political decisions
Economy

Independent costings needed for tough political decisions

The time is now for an Independent Fiscal Institution.

Three Waters replacement opens fresh wounds
Policy

Three Waters replacement opens fresh wounds

There are fears the new regime will create 'orphan' councils.

Govt steers slow-ahead course on resuming live-animal shipments
Policy

Govt steers slow-ahead course on resuming live-animal shipments

Exports could resume next year with stronger animal welfare standards.

Staff reporters 27 Jun 2024
Govt names five experts to review biogenic methane targets
Policy

Govt names five experts to review biogenic methane targets

Former climate change commissioner Nicola Shadbolt will chair the independent panel.

Staff reporters 27 Jun 2024