Category: New Zealand
Tanya Unkovich resigns from Parliament amid controversy over her anti-trans bill and anti-vax views. Craig Young explores the motivations behind her abrupt departure. At the end of June, New Zealand First List MP Tanya Unkovich stepped down from Parliament, citing a desire to return to her career as a motivational speaker. Her departure might appear […]
Craig Young shares a personal perspective on poppers and outlines legal challenges to the laws around their sale and use in NZ and abroad. Alkyl and amyl nitrate inhalants—better known as poppers—were a staple of the gay male community in the 1970s and ’80s. I remember using them sparingly in my younger years back in […]
Craig Yong reflects on the treatment gaps facing trans youth with eating disorders, exploring the tragic case of V, systemic healthcare failures, and the role of gender-affirming care in saving lives. Earlier this month (June 16), V, a young trans man and non-binary individual, tragically passed away as a result of their eating disorder. Some critics […]
In a move critics are calling regressive and exclusionary, New Zealand First has introduced a Member’s Bill that would ban the display of all flags except the official New Zealand flag on government buildings—including Pride flags and other symbols of diversity. Party leader Winston Peters claims the Display of Flags (Government Premises) Bill is intended […]
In a high-speed sport that demands agility, reflex, and grit, Ryan Eagles brings something else entirely to the floorball court: visibility. At just 21 years old, Ryan (he/they) is the first openly transgender floorball player in Aotearoa New Zealand to be eligible for international representation — a milestone that marks both a personal and political […]
Craig Young explores the long history of sex scandals in New Zealand politics—from consensual affairs to criminal acts—and asks what the Michael Forbes resignation says about Christopher Luxon’s leadership. The recent resignation of Michael Forbes, deputy chief press secretary to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, following a police investigation, reopens a familiar chapter in politics: the […]
We meet The Tīwhas – Aotearoa’s trailblazing takatāpui drag collective – set to return to Palmy Drag Fest with a high-energy blend of kapa haka, comedy, and live music. When the stage lights go up at Palmerston North’s iconic Regent on Broadway this October, the energy will be electric – because The Tīwhas are back. […]
Craig Young shares his views on public concern over the Family First event featuring controversial activists. Family First has re-emerged with its annual Forum on the Family, a platform traditionally used to connect overseas and New Zealand-based Christian Right activists. This year’s event again includes speakers with a history of promoting anti-LGBTQI+, anti-abortion, and socially […]