We moderated a rebel debate for the Wellington mayoral candidates RNZ excluded

It’s a hard road getting attention for outsider candidates in local elections. Alex Braae, writer of The Bulletin and stout defender of the political little guy, thought he’d lend a hand by moderating a rebel Wellington mayoral debate. The Spinoff local election coverage is made possible thanks to The Spinoff Members. For more about becoming a member and supporting … Read more

TOP could’ve been so much more than Gareth being Gareth

One of TOP’s former candidates, Dr Jenny Condie, is speaking out about why she thinks the Gareth Morgan-dominated party failed, and what should have been done better. “At the heart of this is my concern that you are simply unable to relinquish the control and direction of this party to anyone other than yourself and … Read more

With TOP gone, where will the protest vote go next?

With the demise of The Opportunities Party, the protest vote they garnered will need a new home. But where? Alex Braae assesses the candidates. Even as the fond memories of TOP’s brief existence fade away, a few defining pictures remain. There’s Gareth Morgan on a billboard, talking about lipstick. There’s Geoff Simmons, chatting away amiably … Read more

‘Another day where it feels embarrassing to be associated with TOP’: the email which enraged Morgan

The Spinoff has obtained the email which prompted TOP leader Gareth Morgan to tell one of his candidates to resign for being a ‘pain in the arse’. Don Rowe looks back on another chaotic week for TOP. Illustration by Toby Morris. Gareth Morgan, currently holidaying in Cuba, has still managed to live in the news … Read more