An argument with myself about Tinā
The Spinoff Daily, Thursday February 27
Ahiahi mārie, welcome to The Spinoff Daily.
Today on The Spinoff: How many times do supermarkets and banks have to be put ‘on notice’ before something actually changes? Plus: The many, many problems with the plan to expand citizen’s arrest powers, and readers’ best (worst) dating stories.
“I can’t believe we’re resorting to this format. What’s so hard about writing a review? Lots of other writers have written reviews.
Reviewing in New Zealand is a fraught exercise. Those reviewing are often practitioners themselves, or know the creatives behind the project. Even so, I’ve reviewed plenty of local films, TV shows and plays, but this one felt different.
The only thing more fraught than reviewing in New Zealand is reviewing something from ‘within the community’. Be too glowing and people assume you’re just saying that because of proximity, be too critical and you’re ‘bringing down your own people’, tall poppy etc…”
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The many, many problems with the plan to expand citizen’s arrest powers
Max Rashbrooke: We need to stop shadow-boxing on competition
Treaty principles bill hearings, day 10: Ruth Richardson criticises ‘Treaty overreach’
Join us at The Spinoff Book Club
The best way to enjoy a book is by yourself, the second best way is with a theatre full of people. Books editor Claire Mabey will lead a conversation with avid writers and readers Duncan Sarkies, Carl Shuker, Courtney Johnston and more. Join us to hear about their favourites, their recommendations, and what to look out for in the year to come.
‘In the plastic bag he has four dead fish’: Readers share their dating stories
Help Me Hera: Should I have children?
Episode three of Bryn & Ku’s Singles Club sees the pair head into the heart of Ōtepoti’s flat party scene to find out more about what the dating scene and hook-up culture is like for young people in 2025. Sharing a few beverages with some university students at the Horn Palace, Brynley opens up about leaving her long term relationship and Kura gets her Tinder profile assessed by someone half her age. Are young people still looking for serious relationships? Does proper heartbreak still happen in the age of apps and social media? And just how many beer funnels can Bryn and Ku do before it’s time to call it a night? Made with the support of NZ On Air.
