Garrick Tremain: By Way of Explanation

A recent column published here brought much positive comment. Some readers approached me for clarification of my reasons for assessing the merits of the eleven Prime Ministers I served under in 35 years of daily cartooning. I had stated that in my opinion Muldoon, Key and Ardern left the most damage in their wake. I am happy to add my reasons.

Ross Meurant: Best Prime Minister In My Time - 1947 to ?

Rt Hon Sir Roger Douglas.

Ably supported by Hon Trevor de Cleene, Hon Richard Prebble, with Hon Dr Michael Bassett and a couple of others lurking in the shadow of the three who were unequivocal in their commitment to save New Zealand from the massive debt incurred under the reign of Rt Hon Sir Rob Muldoon:1975 – 1984.

Muldoon debt?

“Think Big”.  More government ownership of industries better suited to private ownership.  NZ Road Services buses at one end of the spectrum and Post & Telegraph at the other, as two examples.

Peter Dunne: New Zealand Prime Ministers

Jacinda Ardern and Sir John Key have set a new standard for New Zealand Prime Ministers. Too often Prime Ministers have clung to their position, often through thick and thin, until they have been either been tossed out by the electorate or dumped by their own party. But by resigning during a term, and openly acknowledging they both felt they no longer had "enough in the tank" to carry on, first Key and now Ardern have shown a refreshing honesty. They have set a precedent for their successors to emulate.