I reckon NZ could run better without political parties.

Vote burning (shying away from solving big problems), vote buying (lolly scramble ad hoc policy) watering down (coalition trade offs) opposing for the sake of being in opposition, waka jumping, becoming independent, politicians behaving badly- are traits of government which seeks to benefit itself.

Maybe we could elect a government, without the baggage that goes with political parties, by exploring 3 things in our political landscape.

1. Multi Party Accords occur when political parties work together to try and solve big problems which are normally vote burning when a single party has a go at forming policy on their own.

2. The advent of Voter Advisory Apps which accompany elections as a tool to assist unsure voters to learn about what parties they align with and also to harvest views on what could become policy.

3. The Local Government process, in the provinces, elects individuals to govern, instead of politicians,

These individuals - Councillors, agree to serve the community, administering the District Plan.

So what do we see is going on ?

Use of Multi Party Accords demonstrates that policy is already being developed independently from government.

Use of Voter Advice Apps such as On the Fence and Vote Compass indicate that technology advances offer new ways for public involvement in the democratic process. These apps could be rolled out 24/7 and be managed by a new ministry of policy planning whose function is to construct a National Plan.

Electoral terms could still happen with elections to choose citizens to administer the National Plan.There would still be Caucus, Portfolios, Select Committees, a Prime Minister, Ministers and regional members of Parliament.

No longer would political parties be needed.

It could be a modern kind of democracy which works for the benefit of the people. Sorting out the big problems, not deferring them.

What I reckon is if you have a free spirited approach to fashion and are comfortable with yourself then get into a leather slip industrial safety welding jacket. No kidding.

A flattering cut garment with minimal bling, internal pockets, chrome domes and very good block design / panel volumes which is the main reason this garment gets the big tick. On the subject of correct panel volumes

I was in a Barker’s store recently and was impressed by a new style of tan weather proof jacket Country Coat with hood. Tried it on and immediately the garment presented panel volume challenges in the inset raglan shoulder area, making it uncomfortable to raise your arms.

It needed more volume in the armpit region. So this is a great looking coat with minimal bling as well but in comparison to the industrial grade welders jacket, the panel volumes need more work. A garment has to fit superbly well as well as look good - to make the cut.

Time and time again we see very good looking brands but there are issues with the block patterns.

With the welders jacket - you are guaranteed not to have your style cramped by another person wearing the same, at that next red carpet / film premiere you are heading to.

Head to the nearest trade industry tool retailer and ask about their leather slip welding jackets (leather slip means this is the peel cut from the high grade other side of the leather hide)

It’s like the low class version of leather. Who would have thought Welders jackets getting the big tick.

Bring it on !! - for we are not concerned about any of that hi class hoo ha.

Unisex fit. Off the dial risk but maximum reward.