Stephen John Taylor

Guest writer

Stephen John Taylor is a research affiliate at the Centre for Theology and Public Issues at the University of Otago.

Deborah Russell knitting during in the debating chamber on September 2 (Image: The Spinoff)

Needling for change: the surprisingly political history of knitting

When Deborah Russell was spotted knitting in question time last week, she was joining a rich and meaningful political tradition.

By Stephen John Taylor | 12th September, 2026