Keep any United States Army base off New Zealand soil

There is an increasing air of frustration coming from New Zealand people, as their small government repeatedly bends over backwards and submit themselves to being the lap dogs to a dying superpower. Now, with a recent interview on Q+A, interest has been expressed by US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to have United States troops based in New Zealand. The time has come for Mr. Slippery to say "thanks but no thanks."

New Zealand ought to think very carefully before considering any sort of offer from the United States, however honey soaked it may be. Economically, North Africa and the Middle East will start becoming suspicious of such a relationship, which will likely impact on the level of trade which happens. As it is, the economy is very dependent on exports as a source of GDP; losing business here would be a strike out.

Terrorist threat levels will also climb. Review the current countries which have suffered from terrorist attacks since September 11, 2001, and an emerging pattern begins to become clearer. Each country has close ties, in some way, with the United States. Placing an Army base anywhere in New Zealand is a threat to the peace the island nation currently enjoys. Being a remote, distant country means nothing to radical terrorist cells, who will take on the challenge. They will have a target, a reason to attack, as well as a well constructed plan to carry it all out. Stand up and resist it. New Zealand people are tired of Americans pushing them around; they want to be able to get back to living life, without being under siege.

Another Day, another death sentence

Once again, New Zealand's finest young men and women depart to continue fighting a stupid foreign war. 140 personnel are part of the final operation to Afghanistan, for weird reasons only George Bush could ever understand properly in his utopia mindset. Almost everything being done by the troops is largely peacekeeping; handing out food parcels, giving away blankets, teaching young Afghan children to read and write. Politicians ought to go and do that. It'd be a far greater contribution to the nation then the stupid shouting sessions done down at the beehive.

Do not be surprised to hear about further deaths, prior to all troops are withdrawn next year in April. It is no longer a matter of "if it will happen," but rather "how long until it happens."

McCaw will make it to the next World Cup...as a commentator

Yes, this might surprise a few people who marvel at Richard McCaw (or Saint Richie for the cult of followers). A prolonged break away from rugby will not prolong his career enough to get him through to the next world cup. Unlike Brad Thorn, who has never suffered a major injury setback, McCaw has been plagued by a fair few, especially in the latter parts of his career. There is hope he will make it to London, as a commentator. Hobbling around against South Africa in Dunedin provided an indicator that the legendary flanker's body is now operating on sheer willpower.