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WE WELCOME NEW MEMBERS TO NZEDGE.COM THIS MONTH FROM AROUND THE WORLD:
OFF-ISLAND: Aesch b. Maeur (Switzerland), Apia, Bangkok, Beijing, Bergen
op Zoom (Netherlands), Berkshire, Beverly Hills, Bloomington Illinois,
Bristol, Cairns, Cambridge (England), Concord New Hampshire, Covington
Georgia, Essen, Frankfurt, Glasgow, Grand Cayman, Hamilton (Bermuda),
Houston Texas, Hull, Hyderabad, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, Kirkcaldy
(Scotland), Lancaster Pennsylvania, London, Melbourne, Muntinlupa
(Phillipines), New York, Perth, Pune (India), Rotterdam, Rye New York, San
Francisco, San Jose California, San Pablo (Phillipines), Seoul, Sharjah
(United Arab Emirates), Stanford California, Suva, Sydney, Uppsala
(Sweden), Washington DC; and from ON-ISLAND: Auckland, Christchurch,
Dunedin, Hamilton, Hawera, Laingholm, Martinborough, Rotorua, Taihape,
Takaka, Waikanae, Waikuku and Wellingon.
EIGHT
ARGUMENTS FOR BEING OFF-ISLAND
"Dear
Editor, Congratulations on your website which I came across from a link
during a regular perusal of the NZ Herald online. It is excellently
written and researched.
"Re: The Brain
Drain... Well-written article, good points, well made but... Perhaps my
immediate family may serve as an example of why people may choose to leave
NZ. I am a New Zealander resident in England's picturesque West Country
where they make 'Zoider' and say 'Ooh-Arr'. I live in a mansion, holiday
in Europe’s capitals some six times a year, and work for one of the
world's largest advertising agencies. My closest sibling is a Manager/
Editor for an international guidebook company that's setting up shop in
Prague (he's already established a guidebook in Krakow). My oldest sibling
is a senior university lecturer (soon to be professor) in one of North
America's most prestigious technical universities. Our parents, having
worked and supported us so much, now sometimes struggle to make ends meet
on a NZ pension in the South Island.
"Three brothers,
three successful international careers, all of us originally thwarted in
our ambitions in our home country and all now flourishing abroad. Why so?
Well, at the large risk of seeming unpatriotic (I’m not), I’ve thought
of a few reasons why people get frustrated with New Zealand and leave.
"Reason one. NZ’s
population. We can’t offer the opportunities or even pay for the
services we expect as a first world country with only 3.8 million people.
Immigration is not going to solve all NZ's problems, but it'd help,
whilst, I realise, creating new ones. We simply need more people, but they
can’t all go live in Auckland, as Auckland’s power cut of ’98
sharply demonstrated. As a New Zealander abroad, that was/ is so
embarrassing. There’s no rail infrastructure to speak of, State Highway
One is only one lane, and our gene pool is so poor that, for example, we
can’t perform bone marrow transplants at anything like the level of
other western nations.
"Reason two. The
National Government of the 1990’s. They virtually declared war on the NZ
way of life. They were abysmal. No-one voted for Jenny Shipley to replace
Jim 'Spud' Bolger, which leads me to…
"Reason three. The
low standards of political accountability and high levels of public
apathy. Every three years NZ elects a political party that then throws out
its campaign manifesto and acts as an ‘elected dictatorship’, and
there is no effective public response. Sure, people call up Radio Pacific
and complain, but Government policy changes not one iota. How the hell was
Winston Peters allowed to hold the country to ransom for so many weeks
back in ’96? And I do recall that during my childhood, one Robert David
Muldoon was allowed carte blanche to rule the nation as he saw fit for a
decade. Remember the Price Freeze? The Tour? The Red Squad? The removal of
TV2? The blackballing of Tom Scott? The Dawn Raids? He was a dictator.
Okay, he had some amusing one-liners and was born for caricature, but he
was a vicious little man who was an embarrassment abroad, and who brought
a divisive, gutter style of politics to NZ. Thanks to him, gone are the
days of a ‘Gentleman Jack’ Marshall, a MJ Savage or the thoroughly
sensible decent and sensible Bill Rowling. We’re left with Peters,
Richardson, Shipley & Prebble as his true heirs. I only hope Helen
Clark can bring some sense of perspective and calm, and even more than
that, intelligence, to the ridiculous NZ political scene.
"Reason four. NZ’s
obsession with sport, especially rugby. Memo to Kiwis: most of the world
couldn’t give a damn about rugby, as most of the world play plays soccer
(admittedly, an inferior game). Most Americans haven’t even heard of the
America’s Cup. Sport is an irrelevancy, but not in NZ where rugby is a
national religion; but the 1981 Springbok Tour signalled that not all was/
is well with following such a faith. Our complacent paradise was somewhat
shattered. 20 years on, nobody except John 'Banksie' seems to have
supported the tour, um, so how come there was so much violence at the
time?
"Reason five. Parochialism,
ignorance and the ‘tall poppy syndrome’. A catch-all phrase, but... I
cringe with embarrassment when I recall that we were the cause of a major
Olympic boycott in ’76 when African nations stayed away from the games
in protest against our rugby tour of Apartheid South Africa.
We’re proud of our
beautiful scenery, great, but the way some folks carry on you’d think we
had a world monopoly on it; the world’s other continents can look pretty
okay too. Even England has Cornwall and the Lake District.
Auckland has a totally
over inflated sense of its own importance, but other New Zealanders think
you’ve made a pact with Beelzebub just by setting foot there. For a long
while it was the only place in NZ that had any jobs.
NZ whites often hold
racist views of Maori, refusing to see that there is a case to answer for
past crimes. But then, many Maori do all they can to reinforce the
negative stereotypes. ‘Once Were Warriors’ was not so much a work of
fiction but a documentary.
"NZ’s attitude
to immigration; when Pacific Islanders are doing menial jobs that we don’t
want to, or when they’re winning our rugby games for us, they’re fine.
The rest of the time we hark on about ‘overstayers’, and, I note, with
disgust, that dawn raids have begun again. Our attitude to Asian
immigrants is entirely, even openly, xenophobic. Shameful.
"NZ’s strong
elements of curtain-twitching, suburban conformism, and mind numbing
dullness. Only really recently challenged by the generation(s) that grew
up listening to Split Enz, the ‘Dunedin’ Sound and Punk Rock.
"Reason Six. The
economy. It sucks. My pound buys Three and a half Kiwi dollars.
"Reason Seven. Aesthetic
trauma. My goodness we’re a scruffy bunch. Despite plenty of examples
from well-groomed TV personalities, many Kiwis still have the fashion
sense of a Worzel Gummage, a Dame Edna, a Fred Dagg, or a Mr Bean.
"Reason Eight. Our
traditional 4 main centres are respectively built on; 2 dozen volcanoes, a
major earthquake fault line, a swamp, and an area with its own Antarctic
micro-climate.
"Despite all the
above, I still consider myself to be a fairly patriotic Kiwi, but one with
a perspective on the nation’s negative side of NZ as well as its
benefits. – It’s that perspective that is lacking in your site. I
guess that’s a deliberate ‘positivist’ stance, but possibly a flawed
one, in my view. That said, the heroes section of your site made me flush
with homesick patriotic pride… and only one All Black featured, the
excellent Jonah Lomu (the most internationally famous Kiwi since Hillary).
That catalogue of heroes made me acutely aware of how I don’t compare up
to that legacy, but it is inspiring nonetheless. NZ has people and
achievements in which it can be justly proud. Sadly, impressive as that
list of heroes is, many people outside NZ would find it all hard to
believe; when a Kiwi does well outside NZ he gets claimed as either an
Aussie or a Brit’ in the world’s popular imagination.
May I suggest some
other NZ heroes; (with a deliberate absence of contemporary sports people)…
Richard Pearse the
inventor; Fred Hollows the eye doctor; Gen. Freyberg the adventurer; a
certain Mr. Hamilton of Hamilton jet fame, George Nepia (sportsman,
gentleman and cultural ambassador); Jack Lovelock; Sir Arthur Porritt;
Captain Wilding of Wimbledon fame; Katherine Mansfield; Ngaio Marsh; Sam
Hunt; The Wizard; Dame Whina Cooper; Hone Heke; Te Whiti & his
followers at Parihaka; ‘King’ Dick Seddon; Michael Joseph Savage;
John A Lee; Janet Frame; James K Baxter; Keri Hulme; The Wgtn Mounted
Rifles (For ‘twas they, I believe, who actually took Chanuk Bair at
Gallipoli); Captain Hobson; Governor Grey; Dave Lange (controversial,
but it’s thanks to him we are still the only country in the world that’s
avowedly nuclear free); the list could (and should), go on, and on…
"Good luck with
the web site and the NZ Edge mission. I love the place but it drives me
mad (much like my relationship with Britain). I miss my friends and
family, Egalitarianism, the laid back (or ‘horizontal’) Kiwi attitude,
laconic humour, personal body space, and the ‘feel alive’ flavour of
Bell tea. I’m proud to be a New Zealander. I try to be a good ambassador
for my country, and now I can just about afford it, I hope to be a regular
visitor; but I don’t think I’ll be moving back. Craig Young."
West Country,
England
STUDENT LOANS (AGAIN),
DSIR LAMENT
"I think
the NZ Edge concept is a fantastic idea and I sincerely hope it will
affect political thinking back home in NZ. I love NZ but after living in
Asia for 2 and a half years I now find it lacking in opportunities to earn
money and the convoluted taxation/student loan system hinders efforts to
start small businesses. I won't be coming back to live unless the system
radically changes. I agree the education focus should be on IT (Sweden's
success has proven it's benefits for small populations) - but I also
believe more should be made of NZ's science graduates - I have met many
people in my time abroad in awe of NZ's former DSIR and appalled it was
split up and effectively destroyed as a leading creative force in the
world's scientific arena. For my own selfish interests I hope the NZ
economy picks up and help is provided to pay back the infamous student
loans - they (the loans) inhibit not only the likelihood of marriage and
children, but hinder career development where capital is desperately
required for non-corporate/self-employed ambitions. Good luck NZ Edge -
it's great to hear something positive - I hope I can help. Scott
Behrnes."
Dive
videographer/Researcher/Adventure Sport Guide, Grand Cayman, Cayman
Islands
EXTENDING THE GAPS
"Extending
The Gaps I have a real problem with the "Closing the Gaps"
mantra of the current NZ Govt. It's absurd - we should be actively
"Extending the Gap"! Before anyone misreads me, we all share in
the problem of raising the bar at the lower end of the socio-economic
spectrum, but at the same time we need to foster a society that doesn't
place any limits at all at the other end. Extend the Gaps!"
IT Manager,
Houston Texas, USA
PLASTIC PIONEERS
"Another
two heroes for you! Did you know that the two major pioneers of plastic
surgery were New Zealanders, Harold Gillies and Archie MacIndoe. Gillies
worked in the inter-war years, and his apprentice and nephew MacIndoe
continued his work during WW2. These two virtually created the speciality
and a lot of people worldwide owe them a great deal."
Doctor,
Christchurch, New Zealand
PEAK FLOW
"I am
delighted to have found your site!! Carry on the good work - and let me
know if i can help. I would love to. I am a French clinical psychologist
and family therapist, currently living in New Zealand, and very interested
in leading edges and peak performance models!!! The PPO principles are
applicable to families as much as to organizations: there are
inspirational players, inspirational dreams, challenges... the concepts
are there readily applicable... but PPO works best with people such as
Kevin that electrify their environment! Flowingly yours, Annick Janson jansona@hwl.co.nz
"
Psychologist,
Hamilton, New Zealand
IDEAS FOR SALE
"I have
two very exciting business concepts for sale by arrangement. Both concepts
are very viable and original. They are both supported by dot com domain
names to which a website will be built and added. One concept was accepted
into the 1998 Rolex Awards for Enterprise in Switzerland todd@altatude.com"
Co-Founder,
Auckland, New Zealand
FIVE THOUGHTS
1.
"I think it healthy for us as a nation of people to forget our dates
of arrival but concentrate our path's of journey.
2. The cost
of failure is experience, but the cost for not trying is your soul.
3. The speed of going slow is the increase in the things you see.
4. They want mana and prestige, which they confuse with
responsibility.
5. Titles creates the illusion ability exists.
If you want a copy of
the full set email me at malulabah@xtra.co.nz
Regards, Christopher Wingate."
Rotorua, New
Zealand
THE GUTS TO GIVE DAMN
NEAR ANYTHING A GO
"Kevin, I
have been inspired and thrilled by your website - I am not the only one!
This is a letter I wrote to the local paper. David
"Every day the
media is full of stories about the so-called brain drain. Of thousands of
New Zealanders fleeing our terminally damaged country for pastures
greener. Of our brightest and best making the only wise decision open to
them and taking their valuable skills overseas, of leaving their student
loans behind them and making serious money in Australia, Europe and the
United States. These people are lauded as being the smart ones, while the
rest of us slogging it out in poor, tragic New Zealand are seen as being
slightly foolish, or just not having anything the world wants. And
frankly, I am starting to get a little tired of it.
"I live in New
Zealand because it is the most amazing country I can imagine. Yes, our
dollar is not worth as much as it used to be compared to the greenback
(just like the Aussie, the Euro and a lot of other currencies from
"better" countries). Yes, we’re isolated, small, lacking in
some resources, crippled by a reactive, visionless political system that
is dominated by two almost identical parties with a 3-year concentration
span.
"But look at what
we do have. We have spectacularly beautiful scenery that smart people
travel the world to see. We have several compact cities that offer arts,
entertainment and lifestyle without terrifying crime and overwhelming
sprawl. We have a climate that is gentle and benevolent all year round. We
have good schooling and health care available free to all of us, and,
apart from a disastrous student loan scheme, high quality tertiary
education freely available.
"We are populated
by freethinking, courageous, intelligent and entrepreneurial people who
have the guts to give damn near anything a go. Over our short history we
have produced brilliant academics, filmmakers, actors, musicians, writers
and business leaders. We have produced athletes like John Walker, soldiers
like Sir Charles Upham, orators like David Lange and adventurers like Sir
Edmond Hillary.
"We have the
people, the resources, the intellect, and most of all; we have the
attitude to change the world. The only real barrier that has stood between
us fulfilling our birthright as world leaders is our geographical
isolation.
"Until now. The
Internet and low cost air travel has created an environment where we can
directly influence the course of history like never before, and where we
are makes virtually no difference. Our ideas, our creativity and our
slightly anarchic, principled approach is what the tired, battered world
is waiting for. If we stop trying to compete with the world’s industrial
and business giants and start creating our own game by releasing ideas,
leadership and vision, we will change the world.
"If our political
leaders can get their heads around the future, and reward people for
gaining skills, not penalising them with usurious loans and introduce
legislation that encourages innovation and creativity, the world will once
again look on us with awe. If we can encourage free-spirited, passionate
and creative people from around the world to make this land their home,
bringing with them knowledge and skills other people have paid for, we
will succeed beyond all expectation.
"And to those
(mostly young) Kiwi’s who are heading overseas with no intention of
returning - go, we don’t need you. We need people with vision, courage
and commitment to Aotearoa. To those who are heading overseas and planning
to return; go with our blessing, learn from the rest of the world and when
you are ready, bring your strength and knowledge back to change the world.
"And to those who
moan about how bad things are here, and to the media who constantly focus
on the bad news and the "brain drain", have you considered
emigrating? Please?
David Thompson
(Signed)
Accounting,
Christchurch, New Zealand
A TOWN CALLED HOPE
"This is
good! I've got a one-word equity for you that echoes the sentiments of
heaps of smart young Kiwis: HOPELESS. We should be kicking the world's
arse! We have the brilliant human resources to do anything but we need
some guidance from above, and I'm not talking religion. If not, my
generation will end up doing it for someone else in Sydney or London or
wherever they'll have us. Kevin's vision rocks. Its the first time I've
felt inspired about my future for a long time and I hope they're listening
in Wellington. Don't just talk about it! Do something for fucks sake!
Inspire me! Try and give me a new one-word equity: HOPE!"
Student, Perth,
Australia
WE DON’T KNOW HOW
LUCKY WE ARE…
"This is
a bloody good kiwi site and I'll be spreading the word! Thank god someone
has taken the bull by the horns and thankfully it isn't a bloody
politican! In a time when we turn on to Jon and Carol to hear the news,
all we hear are the bad, the worst and the ugly of NZ Society. We also
tend to compare ourselves and our position in the world relative to
others. Lets acknowledge our bad points and lets get on with it and start
backing ourselves, that is where Kevin Roberts is leading the way he is
leading by example and teaching us to back overselves! I have always been
told that as Kiwi's we will never know how lucky we are until we travel
overseas and thats right! We may have our bad points but we should back
overselves much more all leading from the front and be grateful that we
are so fortunate regardless of where we are in the world to be Kiwi's an
one-of-a-kind."
Uni Student,
Dunedin, NZ
WOW JUST
WHEN THE HOMESICK BLUES WERE ABOUT TO KICK IN...
"Way cool
matey, or rather, Ki Ora Bro, what can I say but Kia Kaha Te Pakeha!!! I
have nearly been in the UK for 3yrs now and I had the pleasure of coming
across NZEDGE.COM via the workthing.com site and man did it come at the
right time. I am currently working in Hull [for the last 8 months - Hull
invented the words grey and grim] until Friday and will be relocating to
London permanently [hooray], I will tell as many of my Kiwi mates as
possible about this great forum for all things Kiwi, and I would swear
that the content also has a taste of highbrow kiwi cultural [looove]
branding in there as well! Thanks for the experience, look forward to
seeing the site grow and grow, lets hope that we never lose our cultural
edge. Thanks mate, Clinton Mancer.
@ cmancer@visto.com "
Hull, England
I NEED SOME NEW
TROUSERS
"Hi
Kevin, Karen Walker or Zambesi would be nice and I think you can help. You
see I read your address to the Resource Management Law Association
Conference . (I think it was the same day I worked out that if I sent home
£1000 it would convert to $4,660 Cook Strait pesos). Thank you! Finally
someone's had the balls to show up the '100% Pure' campaign for the
steaming pile of number twos that it is. The 'edge' is where Kiwis should
be pushing themselves beyond and the 'edge' is what NZ needs to bring to
the world.
"Now about those
trousers. An idea I've harboured / investigated for some time now is a
London store representing New Zealand designers. They know we have green
fields and sheep here in London, so let's show them something they don't
know. Show them that our designers, by fact of their isolation, are some
of the most original and innovative in the world. Not just clothes either.
From the home-grown materials used in the store's interiors, through to
the Kiwi Interior Designer used and the amazing images featured on screens
instore. The issue is backing. I have friends over here in Property
Management, Interior Design (well ok, it's my husband), PR and retail.
Kevin, if you have any contact in New Zealand that you could forward this
to, or advise me of, I'd really appreciate it. In fact, I don't even mind
if someone else takes this idea and runs with it. It just strikes me as
such an obvious and effective way of promoting NZ and making some money
for our fair shores.
"Just look at
what Peter Gordon has done for our image on his own? Bugger cliched
posters. The skies are concrete coloured over here now - these people need
Nom d knits! Cheers. p.s. I'm aware that some Kiwi labels are already
represented here, but they're swamped in large department stores and are
hideously marked up."
Copywriter, UK
HEART AND HOME
"Have
just finished reading your speech, with regards to a vision for the New
Zealand Edge. It was very insightful and thought provoking, I only hope
some of those now running our country (into the ground - or somewhere
close) read and then more importantly act on those ideas. I wanted to ask
you about a point you made, that has me thinking. I have written to you
before, along with the many other New Zealanders in a similar position to
me. I have now been away from NZ for eight years, and at this point do not
see any reason for returning, having started my own company in the US.
However, the fact remains, my heart and home is still in NZ. You spoke
about NZ having to build a bridge that connects to those of us who have
left, and I guess my questions is what can we do, out of country, to
create the infrastructure to support such a bridge? What can I do to bring
the world a little closer to NZ, or NZ a little closer to us? Thanks for
continuing to inspire and making us think about Home. Regards"
THE TIPPING POINT
"Dear
Kevin: I just wanted to congratulate you on your very positive and
visionary speech, of which I was forwarded a transcript last Friday night
by a business colleague. This country needs more people with enthusiasm
and drive, which as you know can be highly infectious. (Also, it's great
to find another fan of Malcolm Gladwell; I picked up his book about five
months ago after seeing a piece on it on Jim Lehrer's 'News Hour' on
PBS...)
"There are a few
of us out there who've done the 'Great Kiwi Reality Check' and are now
working toward moving this country into the future, in spite of the
high level of negativity that's about at the mo'. (My favourite experience
in recent times was a certain Wellington bureaucrat complaining about the
fact that we had too many tertiary institutions, to which I replied,
"Great, I'll fill 'em up with cash paying Chinese students!" - I
guess I'm the kid looking for the pony in the room full of manure. I'm
also looking at representing NZ secondary and tertiary level schools from
my office in Shenyang.)
"For the last
four or five years, I've been trying to sell this country on the idea of
being an educational centre (see above) and R&D centre (a
"skunkworks")for the world, which, so far, has had few takers,
most people thinking my ideas a bit crazy, e.g. putting a percentage of
our main CRIs on NASDAQ, or when the previous Government was talking about
listing Solid Energy last year, I suggested to one of the directors that
its value may be in its management systems, a'la NZ Post, and NOT what it
digs out of the ground.
"Mind you, people
laughed at me when three years ago I suggested that our recent migrants
would have skills and contacts which could be of great value to exporters,
which is why I currently have three overseas students (two from India, one
from Taiwan) doing a research project on direct Foreign Investment into
Papakura, which is costing the district nix, but has raised the awareness
factor of the area with people whose families are successful
business-types, who MAY just want to give junior a biz opportunity in NZ.
"So much for my
pontification. Keep up the positive message."
Kind regards, Peter S.
Cooper, Senior Partner/CEO, The Omni-Link Partnership, Managing
Director/CEO, Cooper & Sun Investment Services (Shenyang, China),
Founding Partner/CEO, Harvest Datamedia, P.O. Box 72814, Papakura, New
Zealand
THREE BIG IDEAS
"The Edge
is doing a wonderful job of promoting New Zealand’s positive points
during a bout of lost confidence. This sort of introspection is healthy as
long as NZ can realise the need for change and develop some positive
solutions. One thing I am sure of is that the way forward does not lie in
a return to the past.
"As an expat now
living on the West Island, I still support NZ whenever I can be it in
sport or in promoting the country as a holiday destination. I do this
because I still love my home country and would probably return if the
economic and employment environment improved. I believe many of the expats
making up the recent Kiwi Diaspora feel this way and can see many of the
positive points of NZ that residents take for granted.
"The Edge is
quite right in stating that these strong attachments should be used
positively and developed into a network through the Internet. I believe
that this Diaspora should be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat
to the country. How can this be when NZ is losing so many of its best and
brightest for whom the government has paid plenty to educate? By ensuring
that those same people eventually repatriate some of their skills and
resources. Utilising a network such as The Edge to promote initiatives can
achieve this. I offer the following as examples of such initiatives;
1. "Encouraging
expats to promote NZ as a holiday destination to their peers overseas.
Tourism is the biggest industry in NZ and surely has the potential to grow
much larger. Effective promotion is the key. Making resources and
information available to expats would help realise this promotional tool.
2. "Setting
up a venture capital investment fund to provide funding to NZ business
start-ups. The
fund would aim to source money from Kiwis overseas, who unlike foreigners
know the great-unrealised potential of the country. At times like the
present with a very low kiwi dollar this represents great investment
value. Apart from the personal economic benefits, expats can take comfort
from the contribution they are making to an improved economy and
employment outlook for when they return.
3. "Encouraging
older expats to retire back to NZ
and of course bringing their money with them. This could be done through
the promotion of suitable real estate and lifestyle packages over the
web."
Environmental
Officer, Rockhampton, Australia
BRING BACK THE
PASSPORT STAMP
"Hi
Kevin, after reading your speech to the Tourism Conference I contacted
Customs to find out why they don't stamp your passport, attached is their
answer. Like you we witnessed a couple coming into NZ from Australia on
their 2 year around the world trip and they got no stamp to say they
arrived and will not get one unless they ask on their departure. With
bar-coding of passports I believe this now gives them the time to put a
stamp on (what would it take 5-10 sec. to pick up the stamp and use it),
the stamp would look really good with our Fernleaf, New Zealand and HM
Customs on it. I will write to the Minister of Customs and push the issue,
if cost of the stamps is a problem I'll offer to pay hell we must only
have about 12 sites where visitors are cleared into and out of the country
(if you include the ports). This would have to be one of the cheapest ways
to assist with making a Lovemark of NZ. Hope this is of some
interest." Regards Richard Parkinson, Distributor EDGE Mineral Water,
2/62 Moana Av, One Tree Hill, Auckland, Ph;09 636 3468, Mb:025 309 824
Distributor,
Auckland, New Zealand
NIGHT SHIFT OF THE
WORLD
"I was
intrigued to read about my country's Heroes, but was perplexed not to see
the late John Britten profiled. His inventions sum up the kiwi can-do
attitude (making the mould for the shell of his motorbike with No.8 wire
and baking the engine in his wife's pottery kiln). He is a true source of
inspiration.
Ed’s Note: HERO
story on John Britten coming early 2001.
"I believe that
the Internet is the way forward for us. We need to take a leaf from Ford's
book: they wanted to increase the computer literacy of their staff, so
with few restrictions, they offered any staff member a computer, printer
and scanner for $5 per month. That is truly making a stand, not just a
promise.
"New Zealand is
11 - 13 hours ahead of the UK and Europe, what a perfect opportunity to
take over the email-based customer service operations that companies here
are moving towards. They know they have to do it, but there is widespread
reluctance to change culture, systems and sleeping habits to provide this
essential service. US companies are teaming up with offices in India to
provide this, we need to ensure we get the head start over Australia. I
would welcome dialogue with you regarding the mechanics of this. I will be
back soon, New Zealand will always be my home. Tom Butlin"
Internet
Trainer, Brighton, United Kingdom
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"Great site....
refreshingly kiwi. Reminds me of why I'm proud to be one! Cheers."
Systems
Administrator, Lancaster Pennsylvania, USA
"NZ is very
beautiful and clean country. I love it."
Sharjah, United
Arab Emirates
"This is great,
let's get this show on the road!"
Sumner,
Christchurch, New Zealand
"Inspiring, let's
deliver on it..."
Company
Director, Auckland, New Zealand
"Great site -
keep it rolling in. Thanks."
Engineer, San
Francisco, USA
"Thanks so much
for all the marvellous messages from NZEdge. Belonging to the NZEDGE
community is almost like being home again."
Westminister,
Maryland, USA
"Thank you for
all the information, I needed this for my assignment due in next week and
I’ve found all my questions reading this, so thanks heaps to those who
got together this information"
Student,
Auckland, New Zealand
"This site makes
me proud to be a Kiwi!!!!! Great work, I'll be letting my friends, family
and collegues know about it.....the more the word is spread the better for
all of us..."
Telecommunications
Consultant, Wellington, New Zealand
"Bit o'sunlight
showing - right when we need it, eh? Good to see we haven't forgotten
ourselves!"
Classical
Musician, Waikuku, New Zealand
"Let the edge
dwelling commence!!"
Account
Manager, Auckland, New Zealand
"I've taken
another look at the nzedge website and think it's fantastic. really awesome feedback and content. Congratulations."
Publicist,
Auckland, New Zealand
"Great
following progress of this site...MUCH CONGRATS go to the young guy who
started it all ORIGINALLY. A name can bring fame but sincere wisdom brings
true gain. May you work together young and old true wisdom and meaning
will unfold :) :) A universal kiwi, Glynis:)."
Napa, California, USA
"Love the site
guys! You've probably had these people suggested already, but I'll add my
two cents worth as well and put up John Britten & Roy Kerr as two
people deserving of your attention. Cheers Andrew Mason"
Application
Support Analyst, Melbourne, Australia
"This site looks
fantastic. Very keen to read more - especially with discussions around the
world running hot about NZ's brain drain. You'd be hard pressed to find a
kiwi who's not proud to be one - now it's time to turn sentiments into
practical ideas for economic recovery."
TV Producer,
Sydney, Australia
"Have just been
introduced to your site by another Kiwi living abroad. From a quick glance
looks very interesting. Will get back in my leisure to browse and get more
value from what looks to be one of the best " Kiwi Info " sites
I have found."
MD, Istanbul,
Turkey
"We have a
future, "Don't be afraid only believe" words of Jesus. Keep
telling it to the nation guys we have a future it's only an idea away,
thanks for the good work."
Minister,
Takaka, New Zealand
"Isn't it amazing
that after taking one of the biggest risks in our life to leave NZ behind
and head overseas, it is now an even bigger risk to return, due to the
misdirected management, limited opportunities, and tall poppy syndrome
found in country."
Hospitality
Consultant, San Jose, California, USA
"Hi my name is
Andrew and I am 12 years old and I am doing a study on Jean Batten and I
would just like to say that I think you have put together a great web
site."
New Zealand
"As a New
Zealander overseas, I assume the responsibility of being an ambassador to
my country. This site like myself also has that responsibility. Each in
our own way we continue to retain that special New Zealand attitude and
find our own place in this Global Village."
Information
Systems, Beijing, China
"I am in the
process of applying for permanent residency which should be lodged in
November.I will be setting up home in Hamilton were my brother has lived
for the last 5 years.I will be looking for work in the telecommunications
business."
Telephone
Engineer, Berkshire, England
"We are recent
(albeit reluctant) inductees to the great NZ brain drain. We really like
the intent and optimism your site is seeking to promote and look forward
to regular updates as we all seek to turn the spiral upside down."
Trading
Manager, New York, USA
"New Zealand
doesn't have a strategy. We need one. I'm interested in networking with
those who are interested in that idea. So I support what you're
doing."
Strategic
Consultant and Company Director, Waikanae, New Zealand
"We're a
club for expat Kiwis living in Switzerland. We'd like to draw your
attention to our website at: http://www.nzclub.ch.
We also have a message board (Kiwi Chat) which we'd like to see Kiwis from
all over the place use."
Aesch b.
Maur, Switzerland
"Dear
Brian, the New Zealanders living in Switzerland have just gone online. Our
club comprises approximately 200 households. Some newcomers, some as you
mentioned in your newsletter have been away for 30 odd years. Our website
can be found at: http://www.nzclub.ch.
I think your website is great. An excellent initiative. I've put it in our
links list under "can't do without websites". Keep the flag
flying. Best regards, Nicky Capoferri."
Switzerland
"Brian, have you
thought of an article on Trevor Maxwell’s group Ngati Rangawhehi who
performed at the recent Edinburgh Tattoo? They also performed for the NZ
Thai Chamber of Commerce function on their way to Scotland. They are real
ambassadors for NZ. Best regards, Bill Gasson."
Thailand
"Found a little
quote I thought you might like..
Come to the edge, he said.
They said: We are afraid.
Come to the edge, he said.
They came.
He pushed them, and they flew...
Guillaume Apollinaire (1880-1918)
French Poet
Courtney http://projectme.tripod.com"
New Zealand
"If NZ is
to become a 'great' place to live with the right spirit - we have to clean
up the sick culture that lurks just below the surface of our NZ society. Regards Adrian Chisholm"
New Zealand
"Hi there, I have
visited NZ Edge because I love your part of the world. Besides, I am a
rower, and I have just been looking for more detailed information about
your national hero Rob Waddell. - Thanks for the interesting report. I
will definitely be visiting NZ Edge again."
Customer
Support Manager, Essen, Germany
"Choice site!
Nice to see a few people oft claimed as Aussies rightfully named as New
Zealanders! Amazing to think how many top Kiwis there have been and are
outside of that list. Just a shame that most have made it good away from
home. Still, once a Kiwi, always a Kiwi, eh!
Post Grad
Student, Uppsala, Sweden
"Thanks so much,
for all the marvellous messages from NZEDGE. Belonging to the NZEDGE
community is almost like being home again."
"I found the site
very interesting itself,and like your country that I really like,
unspoiled and clean from typical commercialism of our modern era closing,
I have registered in your site for the upcoming news and events that would
help me eventually visit New Zealand in the near future. Good luck!"
LAX airport rep
& independent travel agent, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA
"NZ is a
diverse country full of strong innovative exciting people. Communities are
where the heart of the country is and we must always ensure we respect the
diverse needs of those within them."
Community Employment Advisor, Auckland, New
Zealand
"I am the
Principal of the most off the edge school in the entire universe...yahoooo
We call our school.. The Greatest Little School in the Universe. Our
vision statement is..'Children at the Greatest Little School in the
Universe Shall Reach the Stars.' Our other vision statement is..'We are
the school that specialises in growing tall poppies.' Come visit us.
Regards Paul The Supreme High Commander"
Principal,
Auckland, Laingholm, New Zealand
TOO KIND
"Great
following progress of this site...MUCH CONGRATS go to the young guy who
started it all ORIGINALLY. A name can bring fame but sincere wisdom brings
true gain. May you work together young and old true wisdom and meaning
will unfold :) :) A universal kiwi, Glynis:)."
Napa,
California,. USA
LELANI JOYCE:
INSPIRATION
"It is a
pleasure to be on your email list and receive inspirational news.
You mentioned Lelani
Joyce in your list. My daughter is currently in the USA playing squash and
is slowly rising up the world rankings after firstly completing a commerce
degree at the University of Auckland. Having Lelani Joyce as a friend and
role model is marvellous for our daughter and great for the sport .So we
are appreciative of your mention of the achievement of Lelani. Regards,
Bill Crome."
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