Is the adversarial, centuries-old Westminster system fit for purpose in Aotearoa? I don't believe it is. For a progressive country, highly respected in the world, we practise this system, in my view, in an immature and destructive way. Politicians and the news media focus on conflict, perceived or real slip-ups, rather than substance and the quality of ideas. The objective is to catch people out and take them down, rather than providing a platform of discussion for and against the best improvements to the lives of New Zealanders. Politicians should be held accountable, but we are not prey. The accountability lacks perspective—if you don't believe me, go ask the public.