image/jpeg | May 11, 2025 at 12:46 PM | 101 edition(s)

Richlister continues an ongoing use of Google Earth as both a research tool and visual output device. In Richlister, properties of high-wealth New Zealanders are surveyed. The visual output is the result of GE in 3D mode, as it fractures the structures and the highly desired location and view. A recent IRD report showed how (much as in other Western democracies and many other non-democracies) the wealthier paid much lower tax rates than the poor. John Key, an ex prime minister scorned this report but during his term, the disparities increased. Aotearoa underwent a well documented neoliberal onslaught in the 1980's and one which continues under both Labour and National governments. In simple terms this has resulted in a notable transfer of wealth from the poor to the superrich - not necessarily through individual greed but through a political system that many follow, where laws favour lower regulation and individual gain. The touted trickle down from the wealthy turns out (as predicted) to be a farce. To many, this seems a conservative-led throwback to a survival of the fittest mentality where the elite deem themselves worthy to rule in a feudal manner and most are disenfranchised of their political power. A fairer, community-based system would see a limit in wealth disparities that regulates accumulated and inherited wealth. As well as political movements, some, including the children of some richlisters are fighting for a fairer system by supporting wealth and inheritance taxes as well as other distributive models. A better environment and climate are just a few of the potential gains. ----- sources: Google Earth, Landsat/Copernicus, SIO, NOAA, US Navy, NGA, GEBCO, Airbus ----- minted May 2025 for #objkt4objkt ----- twitter.com/stusontier | instagram.com/stusontierphoto