Affirmations of New Zealandness, offers of help, connection, new Heroes and Aroha.

PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR, LONDON, UK 
"Dear NZ Edge. Thank you for your inspiring website. You've captured the essence of Aotearoa in a very identifiable way. It is moving to see our country spoken about in such positive terms, both by New Zealanders and people from other shores. In London, you can find Kiwis in a great diversity of roles, which I believe reflects our adaptive and innovative nature. While the exodus overseas gives cause for concern about the 'brain drain' phenomenon, I would argue that the vast majority of New Zealanders intend to return home eventually. It may seem overly simplistic to state we are a nation of travellers because our ancestors all arrived by sea (and later, by air), but it is a compelling argument all the same. My ancestors gave up what little they had in a crowded Europe to travel into the unknown for the promise of a better life. After weeks at sea, they rowed ashore at Castle Point in the Wairarapa in a winter storm. Upon arrival, they discovered the land they had been allocated was covered in ancient forest, which they proceeded to clear laboriously by hand. Every family has a similar story of travel and arrival, and it has infected our national psyche at all levels. We travel because we can. I see many Kiwis wearing their pounamu with pride on the streets of London. I love what New Zealand is about and I look forward to the day of my return. Aroha, Kate."

RICHARD BEST, KIWI LAWYER IN FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY 
"What a superb site! The Brain Drain / Gain campaign appears to have galvanised NZ spirit at both national and international levels and now we have this tremendous site in which the positive energy of New Zealanders can be shared. Some of us, for whatever reason, find ourselves living in foreign lands both happy with our choice yet missing Godzone and wishing to be a part of New Zealand's positive evolution. This site gives us a portal for awareness and contribution. I'm a Kiwi lawyer who, having worked in London for two years, now finds himself living in Frankfurt, Germany. Kiwis are few and far between here (indeed I'm yet to catch glimpse of one) so, in addition to being reminded by the motivated and adventurous Germans around me of how beautiful New Zealand is, it's great to have this site for a virtual trip back home. Thanks to the minds behind NZ Edge. Tremendous vision. Richard Best." rdbest@talk21.com

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT, LONDON, UK 
"Reading through the mail on this site and checking out the picture gallery makes me think that NZ Edge has got all we need to get some momentum going for our own little "cultural revolution". It's a case of "just do it". This site has a great selection of logos that could be put forward in a referendum to pick a real NZ flag; a writer from Berkeley, California has penned the first couple of verses of an anthem that really feels authentic when you sing it (or a lot more so than the current one anyway); and a good stamp in the passport of every departing Kiwi will firmly remind us of where home is every time we flick through the pages to reminisce. The first politician with mana and energy that picks up the feeling this site creates, and brings it out into mainstream media has every chance of riding on a wave of "red socks" public enthusiasm all the way to a beach of cultural heroism." Anne Williams.

FILM EDITOR/ WRITER, VENICE, USA
"This is a true find and I am going to add it to the links on my own web site at www.kiwicafe.com. Reading the site had me bursting into tears, both from pride and in longing. I am a well travelled kiwi from Wellington. I grew up in Napier then lived in Sydney, New York and now Venice, California, near the beach. I have been blessed with a long and successful career with a passionate love for life. I enjoy the kiwi spirit and can be found hiking/trailrunning in the local mountains with my dog Kiri as in te Kanawa."

GERALD D CLARK, INVENTOR/CREATIVE, SOUTH WALES, UK
"Love the idea of a New Zealand register. The ability to network with other bright minds from NZ would be interesting, especially after too long a period in the UK where the majority of Brits and Welsh have far too much baggage for their own good. I Have developed the world's first family of super large Artificial Islands (250,000 tonnes) which are equipped with the latest technology applicable to water/power production, treatment etc. Built in large shipyards and sea-towed globally. First contracts commence 2002. Best Wishes, Gerald Clark. kaiakgdc@yahoo.com 

THINKER, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"What could really make NZ stand out? The Maori greeting "hongi": imagine if instead of a handshake New Zealanders, that's all New Zealanders, used the hongi to say "how do you do?" I have some Maori blood, so I understand the delicacies of getting permission from Maoridom. But what a gift from Maori to the nation and indeed the world. Stand up and out New Zealand."

FINANCE MANAGER, BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA "There is nothing like being away from New Zealand to deepen the bonds of love one has. Being away and then going home makes you realise what a great place we have and what great people we are. I love the Kiwi attitude and am proud of everything K1. Keep on the edge and keep challenging everything. Saludos from Buenos Aires."

STUDENT, AMES, IOWA, USA 
"It's good to find an site that is as simulating, informative and proud as this one. I am a young Kiwi fella studying in the U.S. so as to finish my Marketing Degree and gain some international perspectives and experiences. At the moment I am trying to draw in the "American" experience as a way to further develop my own academic, social and cultural understanding and awareness of the world that we live in. Sometimes in a relative 'safe' and 'stable' environment such as NZ we can become narrow minded and unhappy with our present conditions (which by world standards are high). I have forced myself to explore the world outside my safe, loving and happy comfort zone, to see if I can tackle it with the big boys and girls. Some of it of course I could do without, but much I will bring back home! I am certainly not part of the 'brain drain', I'm doing my best to contribute to the brain gain. I'm bringing back positive experiences to share with you all. All I want you to do is have a positive attitude and an open mind for a change for the better."

JOHN COXON, QUALITY ASSURANCE, MARKETING, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA 
"What can I say? I was a regular visitor to NZ Edge prior to moving to Australia, and now it has become my lifeline, my link back to Aotearoa. Like a lot of Kiwis before me, I came over here to follow a dream, to do better, to be better. Like a lot of Kiwis, I have had a dream start, a new love and a new career. But my culture and my home go with me wherever I go. This website inspires, the stories and the successes of other Kiwis from all parts of the globe inspire. Kia ora aotearoa, taku kainga, taku tikanga, taku pahi, taku muri. John Coxon."

NASHVILLE, USA
"I am a New Zealander born and bred, but I lived in Brisbane for 18 years and now live in Nashville Tennessee. I am married to a wonderful American. New Zealand is a beautiful country and one day I hope to bring my husband to meet the great people and see the superb scenery that NZ has to offer. This site is new to me, having been sent by my brother in NZ. I love it. Please keep up the great work and keep us Kiwis who live overseas informed."

OWNER/OPERATOR OF TOUR COMPANY, NELSON, NZ 
"Congratulations on a wonderful site! I am part of the return of the "brain drain"!! I have recently returned from some rich experiences overseas. Having gained a global perspective of women's tourism, I have just set up a package tour business that caters for women: www.southseamermaids.co.nz. To all New Zealanders overseas: there is an enormous amount of support for starting small businesses here. Although my income level has dropped (I was previously working in London), my quality of life is better and I am happy to have returned. I agree with your comments in the tourism section about selling our uniqueness, not competing with the beauty of other countries. It is indeed our people and ideas that are our greatest resource."

IAIN B.MCKAY, BROADASTING/NZ CONSUL/CONCERT SERIES DIRECTOR, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, USA 
"My position as Director of International Broadcast Media at Bonneville Communications provides worldwide interaction with the broadcasting industry and helps pay the bills. My role as Honorary New Zealand Consul enables me to serve my country. As community service Director of the Temple Square Concert Series I help promote over 300 public concerts a year and, naturally, this includes many Kiwi's with world class talents."

STRATEGIC MARKETING, NZ 
"There are those who make things happen, those who watch what happens and those that wondered what happened - thanks for being in the first category and creating something great that all of us can benefit from. There is no reason why we can't once again be the best we can be, if more and more people get the NZ Edge attitude - grab hold of your dreams and make them a reality."

DAVID GRANDI, WELLINGTON, NZ
"Congratulations on the tremendous response to your advertising!! Just goes to show that there are so many New Zealanders out there who are passionate about our country. The development of a Forum sounds great. Can't wait. Every day in every way, we as a nation, are getting better and better!! My world will be even better if we can get another dynamic Mayor in Wellington, who will move this great city along to an even greater level of success. Thanks to you and Kevin for your continued dedication to NZEdge. David Grandi."

LONDON UNIVERSITY, LONDON, UK
"Although I am not an ex-pat New Zealander, I find your country fascinating. I love listening to Kiri Te Kanawa and the late Inia te Wiata's songs, and that has caused me to read as much as I can about NZ and by NZ writers, starting with Janet Frame and now Alan Duff, Keri Hulme and Emily Perkins, so I have absorbed as much of NZ as I can, being so far away. I'd love to visit one day. Good luck with your website, it's great!"

ENGLISH TEACHER, KWANGJU, SOUTH KOREA
"I enjoyed reading your article on the brain drain. As one of the many Kiwis living abroad I identified with the difficult choice New Zealanders face - to live at home or not. I lived in London for a year and now am living in South Korea. I think it comes down to the fact some other countries can offer more money and a faster pace of life. Saying that, I can't wait to get back to Aotearoa and breath the fresh air, see the smiling faces and enjoy the wide open spaces. I am truly blessed to be a New Zealander."

RETIRED, BUNDABERG, QLD, AUSTRALIA 
"I chose to move to Australia in 1987 as a result of personal circumstances. I have not regretted my move, and have no desire to return to New Zealand to live. Having said that, I do not consider I have rejected my New Zealand background. Rather I have and am continuing to take it to the world. NZ is a country which has contributed much to the world, yet still seems to diminish itself with its continual need to play the game of one-upmanship with the likes of Australia. Why? My only conclusion, from the outside looking in, is that it - NZ- still feels, as a nation, that it can only stand tall by putting another down. For God's sake why? New Zealand is unique. Just as Australia or any other nation is. NZ does not need to strive to be better than another. It just needs to be itself - unique, different, special and purposeful."

POTTERY MAKER, BAY OF PLENTY, NZ
"I have been reading material on the 'Edge', "if you’re not on the edge, you are taking up too much room". Anyway, I'm not sure whether this idea is something you are interested in or know who might be, but for a while I thought it would be a good idea for road signs in NZ such as river names, town names, mountain names, anything else with a 'Maori' name, have an English equivalent beside it. My thinking is that this would act as a very inclusive iconic and informative aid for New Zealanders and tourists alike, and would add tremendously to understanding the history of this country. What do you think? Kelvin Falconer www.rolling-cloud.eol.co.nz

INVESTMENT BANKER, CAMBRIDGE, UK 
"Many aspects of New Zealand's culture will contribute to its global success, such as a can-do attitude. A tall-poppy syndrome will not. A watered-down education system where half-hearted participation is everything and success is not rewarded, means watered-down talent and less chance of young men and women going into battle for NZ. More needs to happen at the secondary school level. New Zealand is tragically short of leaders."

PETER BARRON, PHARMACIST & ENTREPRENEUR, DUNEDIN, NZ 
"Congratulations on setting up this site. I have lived and worked overseas for nearly a decade and I am proud to be a Kiwi. I love living in New Zealand and especially the south of the South Island. We need to appreciate what we have in our people, culture and country. By thinking and acting outside the square we can help this wonderful country of ours grow in self-belief. Kia Kaha, Peter Barron." peter.barron@xtra.co.nz

NURSE, RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA 
"What a great way to feel that connection with "home". I have lived overseas in several different countries for 16 years but still feel a great surge of pride for my New Zealand roots. I currently work in a very multicultural environment and the people I meet say, almost without exception, "New Zealand, what a wonderful country, I hope to go there someday". Our warmth, friendliness and easy going attitude are recognisable New Zealand traits appreciated by many others. Why do we not build on this and do more to attract the outside world to our little corner of paradise? The exchange rates are in favour of the visitor and yet we still don't seem to have a sophisticated tourism industry capable of catering to their needs. I hope to return to New Zealand again one day but economically the time is just not right for me. Good luck to all. Ma'asallama from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia."

R&D - PRIMARY INDUSTRY, HAMILTON, NZ 
"It is pleasing to see NZ in a positive light and "tall poppies" being lauded. I am continually amazed at the places and roles that New Zealanders pop up in, and the lead many of them take in the world. Having been involved in R&D for the past 21 years, I have been privileged to work with some of the great research minds in this country, and been involved in world leading technology development. Unfortunately the pleasure of working in R&D has always been tempered with the problems of gaining funding and the eventual promotion and marketing of new technology. I hope that the knowledge economy will improve our record in this area. Industry needs to take a greater role in research, either directly or with funding. It also needs to be more visionary - much of research today appears to me to be for the moment, not for greater and better things in the future. We need both."

TEMP FUND MANAGEMENT ASSISTANT, LONDON, UK
"As a young New Zealander currently on my OE in London, I enjoy visiting sites from home. I found this site to be particularly rewarding, matching as it does my own sense of pride and joy in coming from New Zealand. Thank you for producing a site which encourages us to remember our achievements and to constantly reach for more. As a qualified historian (MA Hons 1st Class, 1998) I could be assumed to be part of the so-called brain drain. What some people back home forget is that young people such as myself carry with us on our adventures over here a strong sense of our roots and a pride in our heritage that we share with those we meet. Very few of my kiwi friends over here have any intention of spending the rest of their lives in any country other than New Zealand. We are indeed a country full of innovation and energy - thank you for sharing your vision with us. Clementine Fraser."

ULLI WEISSBACH, TV PRODUCER, AUCKLAND, NZ "Just found your website today. Looks superb and promises good content. Although I'm not a NZ national, I live in this country and I like it. I share your concern about the lack of vision and the ever present 'tall poppy syndrome' in NZ. WE NEED TALL POPPIES! Ulli Weissbach." weissbach@pacifica.net.nz"

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT, SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE 
"I love your page and I believe New Zealand as a country needs this. The papers in Singapore published a speech made by a professor from the London School of Economics in Auckland with the headline: "New Zealand in Danger of becoming a Third World Country." According to the statistics our position in OECD has slipped from third at the top to third from the bottom. It's sad to see all the talent leaving New Zealand because they are not getting the support they need from the Government in terms of leadership, infrastructure and business support."

FULL-TIME FATHER, HAMILTON, NZ
"It seems like mediocrity strikes once more in New Zealand. The result of the Royal Commission’s Inquiry into Genetic Modification that was made public yesterday afternoon shows how fearful the leaders of this country are! This is a great opportunity for New Zealand to define its EDGE. There is no EDGE in mild legislation in GM, given the fact that the strategy of food and agricultural giants is to mess up the food system faster than legislators can react. Where are the leaders of NUCLEAR FREE NZ? We need them now to define our new EDGE."

STUDENT, OTAGO, NZ
"I am a student at Otago University, for my Communication Studies paper I am doing an essay on the following "Social identities are constructed rather than natural" in relation to nationality. For my Film and Media studies paper I am gathering resources for the following essay "Is the All Black's performance of the haka an expression of New Zealand's distinctive national identity or an act of cultural appropriation?" In response you must explain your understanding of New Zealand national identity and the concept of cultural appropriation." Anyway I was wondering if there was any information that you could send me that may be in some way relevant to my work, anything would be great. Thank you for you help. Sincerely Jenny_b_@excite.com.
Editor: Check out the NZEdge story on ta moko (Maori tattoo) for an exploration of similar issues surrounding Maori culture, national identity and intellectual property. 

HEROES FEEDBACK AND SUGGESTIONS:

AUSTIN, TEXAS, USA
"Hello, I just had the pleasure of reading the excellent piece you have on Sir Edmund Hillary. He has been a hero of mine since I first read about him in the late 1950s. I am no longer the adventure-reading child who could rattle off the names of the twenty tallest peaks in the world, thanks to the interest that Hillary and Tenzing sparked in me. However, my affections for this man have not wavered but only deepened in more recent years. His tireless work in Nepal may not be the stuff that grabs the fancy of every 10 year old, as did his earlier adventures, but these are indeed impressive pursuits, as your article so well described. My heart is lifted to read once again of his tireless gift of self. Thank you!" Julie Kelly, Austin Texas, USA mailto:jfkelly@bbnow.net

FOOTY, LAS VEGAS, USA
"When oh when is the great Peter Jackson going to get his piece in 'Hot'. I fell in love with this guy as a scrawny third-former after watching the one and only Bad Taste. He also must be applauded for steadfastly refusing to work overseas, thus helping to put the great NZ on the map. Well, most maps."

TOM NEWNHAM, RETIRED, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"An excellent site that deserves to be well-supported. I am delighted that it is thriving. May I suggest an unsung Kiwi heroine: Kathleen Hall. It is my personal opinion that there is no other single Kiwi who did more to save NZ from invasion in WWII. American General "Vinegar" Joe Stillwell said that the North China theatre was pivotal to the Pacific War, because there the Chinese 8th Route Army bottled up half a million Japanese troops for 8 years (1937-45). If that manpower had been available to the Japanese, especially in 1942, it would surely have tipped the balance in the South Pacific. Tom Newnham." (See Kathleen Hall www.nzchinasociety.org.nz)
Editor: For another influential Kiwi in China check out the NZEdge hero story on Rewi Alley - the man whose revolutionary "gung ho" co-ops were responsible for the phrase seeping into the western idiom.  

LIMO DRIVER, QUEENSTOWN, NZ
"What took me so long to find you! As a retired Corporate fellow now driving limo's in Q/town I spent the winter o/seas in UK & USA. At the Oskosh aircraft museum in Wisconsin with two wonderful friends from the USA I managed to hold off saying anything about the Wright Bros replica aircraft until we went to lunch. Since returning to NZ I was bombarded with questions. Went to the internet to find 'Richard Pearse' and found you. The NZ Heroes page is great. For a small country we have more than our share of 'Hero's'. Many possible additions however may I suggest Col. W G Malone of Chunuk Bair. Thanks for a great site!!"

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER, POCKET NZ, RANGIORA, NZ
"Thank you for such an informative and interesting site. I'd like to bring to your attention a forgotten New Zealand hero by the name of Frank Worsley. Worsley was the Captain of the Endurance on Shackleton's heroic arctic voyage, and his courage and skill as a navigator was second to none. I am sure his story would inspire others. Maybe one day he will make your hall of fame."

COMPUTER SYSTEMS ARCHITECT, WELLINGTON, NZ
"Great site. Good to see praise for tall New Zealand poppies. Lets hope we'll grow more! I'd like to suggest an addition to your heroes list: Leslie J. Comrie was a New Zealander who is famous in computer history as the founder of the first Computer Bureau - in London in 1938. See http://hammer.prohosting.com/~penz/computer/
comrie.htm for a brief summary."

CRAIG, WELLINGTON, NZ 
"Your list of New Zealand heroes is impressive, and I would like to add three more names; Harold Gillies',CBE, FRCS (1882-1960), Archibald McIndoe M.B, ChB, F.R.C.S (1900-1960), and William Alban Phillips, PhD (1914-1975). These are three New Zealanders that have left their marks on the world. Gillies for example is considered the founding father of modern plastic surgery. Although his specialty was facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Gillies' interests included microvascular surgery, and the reattachment of amputated limbs. His maxim of "never throw away anything until you are sure you do not require it" is followed in all fields of plastic surgery to this day. McIndoe was the cousin of Harold Gillies and was also a pioneering plastic surgeon who worked primarily with WWII burns victims, particularly fighter pilots. It was McIndoe who made the connection between the recovery rate of burns victims who had fallen into the sea and the concept of saline baths for burns victims. Prior to that an oil solution was used on their burns. Finally, William Alban Phillips' area of expertise was economics. He is best known for his infamous 'Phillips Curve' which models a trade-off between inflation and unemployment. You will not find any modern economic text that does not have a section on the Phillips Curve. Needless to say, Phillip's model has influenced the economic policy of countless governments throughout the world, yet few New Zealanders have ever heard of him."

PHYSIOTHERAPIST, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO, USA "I just returned from a MOVE (mobility opportunities via education) conference in California. MOVE is an innovative curriculum that gets kids in wheelchairs up and walking in adaptive equipment. At the conference there were a group of Kiwis from the Sir Keith Park School in Mangere. This school has now become the first International MOVE model site. I was excited to see how quickly we Kiwis take a great idea and go with it. NZ has a very high standard of education and we are very adaptive too. If you have a special needs child (who can't walk independently yet) or know of one, please contact this school. Lets get our kids out of wheelchairs and in to taking part in life".

WORLD 
"Dear Sir. A great idea. I am particularly proud of your heroes page - there are many people I had never heard of. Is Kiri Te Kanawa to be listed? Also, it would be great if you could allow pages to be e-mailed to non-NZ friends overseas. Some of my friends have no idea that NZers have made important contributions to the world!"

SALES MANAGER, WELLINGTON, NZ 
"Great concept. Let's do it - it's time we did! Don't forget the legendary late Bert Munro, from Waikiwi, world motorcycle speed record holder on his two old but highly modified motorbikes! And he continued this with passion and determination until in his seventies! Wayne Buckingham. 

TALKBACK PRODUCER/PRESENTER, AUCKLAND, NZ
"Dear Edge: I appreciate your "upstream" attitude towards Kiwis and Kiwiland. I consider my Dad to be an unsung hero of the pioneering entrepreneurial spirit because he and his mate started what was known as S.P.A.N.Z. (South Pacific Airlines of N.Z) in direct competition to the then State National Airline N.A.C. I'm sure you know the history. He is Rex Daniell and his friend is Bob Andersen. S.P.A.N.Z. recently celebrated their 40th Anniversary with a highly successful re-run of the old DC3 routes."

TEACHER, PORIRUA, NZ 
"What a fabulous site! It was neat to read more about Alexander Aitken. I read about him in a school journal many years ago and have not heard any more about him from any other source. I find it incredible that no-one else seems to know about such an amazing New Zealander!"

EMERGENCY SERVICES, TOM PRICE, AUSTRALIA 
"I discovered this site by accident. But what a great job you have done! I enjoyed the Heroes section especially about Richard Pearse and Bruce McLaren. I would like to see something done on Bill Hamilton." terry.mellor@hi.riotinto.com.au

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATOR, RADIO COPYWRITER AND MOTHER, WHAKATANE, NZ 
"Great place to look up homework things for New Zealand kids! Thanks for the stuff on Lord Rutherford. I was sick of everyone calling him a British Physicist when he was born near Nelson!"

WAKE REMEMBERED
"I read your article with interest, and have known Nancy for more than twenty years; speaking to her regularly. My own father was a member of Special Operations Executive (French section), until he was arrested by Hugo Bleicher of the Abwehr in Paris in 1943. He was later executed on the 29th March, 1945 with 13 other members of SOE. Kind regards, Nigel Felangue."

PHOTO LIBRARY, DUNEDIN, NZ
"I have an idea to make a big splash for NZ: having a big celebration/campaign for the Centenary of Powered Flight by Richard Pearse. By eclipsing the centenary celebrations for the Wright Bros by 9 months this would potentially cause a self publicising media storm. TIME magazine has written the following "RICHARD PEARSE His neighbors called him "Mad Pearse," but in March 1903 the reclusive New Zealand farmer climbed into a monoplane [...] and flew for about 140 m before crashing into a hedge. It may not have been a sustained flight, but it was the most successful powered take-off until the Wright brothers entered the record books in December 1903." Clearly this could easily be used to spearhead a variety of campaigns for anything Kiwi, from tourism to products. Cheers, David Wall, David Wall Photo Library, Corstorphine, Dunedin, New Zealand."
     
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, LA, USA
"It was with a great deal of disappointment and a degree of shame that I read your article on John Money where he is painted as a "hero". He is far from a hero to me - I say this both as an expatriate New Zealander and as a human being with enough common sense to see through his theories. Granted, he has gained a great deal of fame and respect for his views, and there is no doubting his place in history as an academic mind. The fact that John Money neither entertains nor tolerates criticism of his "theories" puts him in the [dubious] company of such zealots as Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx. Intellectual honesty should be of paramount importance to a true academic hero and this is a quality that John Money has never exhibited.

Worse than Dr. Money's lack of intellectual honesty is the fact that you attempt to defend this man in your follow up article about him. Let me point out one of the many problematic passages in your article "John Money Postscript - Show me the Money". You write: "While acknowledging Money as a revolutionary and influential figure, Colapinto paints a picture of him as an undertaker of an experiment in psycho-sexual engineering – clearly the villain of the tale. This picture of Money is a little cartoon-like, but remains one-sided as Money has refused to comment on the book or the research, citing medical confidentiality laws. Whatever the ‘truth’ here, the case is a nebulous one that tests the fringes of knowledge. What is undoubted is that whatever the success or failure of single case studies, or whatever side of the ledger that history decides John Money will fall on, he has made a respected, considerable and pivotal contribution to one of the modern era's most controversial debates - the construction of sexual and personal identity."

Much of the "painting" of Money as the villain of the tale comes from Money's own journals. Self-documented evidence of the case in question where Money's agenda seriously clouded his analysis of the situation. You state that the John/Joan case is nebulous compared to the body of work that Money has produced. Let me remind you that this so-called "nebulous" case was the lynchpin of most of Money's work both before and after the case was published. Not only is it responsible in large part for Money's fame and position, it has also become a part of the pseudo-science vernacular despite the facts; that the specifics of the case were initially mis-reported (by Money) and that the subject of the case has now reverted to his original sexual identity. This is a miscarriage of science that rivals the myth of macro evolution - the bastardization of Darwin's theory that is currently thought and regarded as empirical fact despite the huge body of scientific proof refuting it. You, the editors of this web site are entirely entitled to your opinions. I would however prefer to see these biases and agendas listed "up-front" as it were, given that your work seeks to represent all New Zealanders, me included. I am forced to discount your entire site as a result of the bias shown in the treatment of John Money, who happens to be a figure I know a lot about. You are most definitely showing editorial bias whilst attempting to have your writings appear objective."

JOURNALIST, AUCKLAND, NZ
"I just made a flying visit to your site and it looks mighty fine. The postscript on Money is an interesting and thoughtful one."

ANTI-MONETRIST
"I can't believe you would portray John Money as a hero. His most prominent case (John/Joan) was a failure, a fact he chose to hide form the public, allowing many children to be butchered. He refuses to comment on the "As Nature Made Him" book, but he had no problem commenting on it when things were seemingly going his way. He also advocates NAMBLA and the eating of feces as an acceptable form of sexual gratification. why don't you put that on your site?"  

FINANCE, AUCKLAND, NZ
"Great update. Clearly a lot of research has gone into this. I concur that John Money is still a fascinating New Zealander and has certainly achieved a lot in his lifetime." 

WAIHI COLLEGE HERO SUGGESTIONS:

STUDENT, WAIHI, NZ
"Dear NZ EDGE, I think Eric Tindill should be in NZEdge because he was so famous he is a New Zealand All Black and he was also a New Zealand cricket player In 1936 tour of England. Eric missed the 1935/36 cricket season because he was away with the All Blacks on the tour of the Isles and France but he became a "double All Black" in 1937 when he was chosen to represent New Zealand against a touring MCC cricket team. Eric Tindill is a very exclusive group of New Zealand sportsman who have represented there country in both cricket and rugby. I would like to see him in the NZ EDGE .com and would like to thank you for your time. Yours sincerely Mita Snow.

STUDENT, WAIHI, NZ
"Dear Editor, I am writing to inform you of my view on Temuera Morrison. My name is Sheryn Clarke from Waihi College doing a study on New Zealand heroes. He is one the biggest heroes ever in New Zealand. Temuera Morrison, born in 1961, grew up in Rotorua, he attended Western Heights High School then left to see through his education at Wesley College Auckland. He has one little boy called James. Temuera Morrison went through a very tough time, getting hardly any work and living on not much money, but he never gave up. Tem found fame first as 'Doctor Ropata' on Shortland Street then he landed the part Jake 'the Musc' Heke in Once Were Warriors. So many Maori people look up to his experiences. Time and time again they went to the movies and wept as the story unfolded. A story so familiar to many that it seemed as if their own lives were put up on big screen. This movie Once Were Warriors inspired so many people to change their ways of living they looked at Tem for the inspiration to get through the hard times. He also returned in the follow-up film What Became of the Brokenhearted, He did grow up in it, and he rejected violence and even drinking and destruction of others’ lives. No other actor could have done the job any where near as well as Temuera Morrison."

STUDENT, WAIHI, NZ
"I'm a student from good old Waihi College doing a Liberal studies task to write a letter to you guys asking for a certain person to be put on your web site. Personally I found the site quite adequate and educational. Real country changing heroes that really made a difference like Sir Edmund Hillary etc. I have a different letter that is a kind of a proposition, idea type thing. It is extending your site to further it and hopefully better it. The extension being a place on the site for up and coming heroes to be recognised and encouraged to strive for what potential they have buried inside them. I think greater achievements will be reached making New Zealand. I have up and coming Hero in mind that may change the way people see N.Z in the surfing world. His Name is Bobby Hansen, he's young and has heaps of potential. By putting him on the site I think he will strive even harder and reach what N.Z has been lacking all these years in surfing. This applies to all achievers. Please consider this proposition as I think your site will benefit from it immensely, more visitors, more learning about N.Z greats. Thanks James Allsopp."

STUDENT, WAIHI, NZ 
"Dear New Zealand Edge I have shown some interest in your site and have noticed that you don’t have one of my heroes Scott Dixon and have found some basic facts about him and would like it if you could put his information on your site for future visitors to your site. Thank you. Shan."

STUDENT, WAIHI, NZ
"My name is Harley Fletcher and I am a student at Waihi College I am doing an assignment for Liberal Studies and part of that assignment is for me to write to you and suggest someone that is suitable for your web site. I have chosen Sir Richard Hadlee. Sir Richard Hadlee is New Zealand’s best cricket player of all time and I believe your web site should recognise him as a national hero. He has won New Zealand sports person of the year 2 times, sports person of the decade and sports person of the last 25 years. He has been awarded a Knighthood for his services to cricket, which is an amazing achievement. He had an outstanding career, a world record 10 wickets in a match 9 times, world record 5 wickets in a test innings 36 times. He was the first player in test history to take 400 wickets and had the world record of 431 test wickets until Kapil Dev from India went beyond. Even though he is no longer playing cricket he still is involved with it. He is always on hand to help and give advice for New Zealand International players. He show true characteristics of a hero and I think there is not many people who deserve to be on you web page more than him. A man who has been recognised by the queen for his services to cricket should definitely be recognised by your web page. Yours sincerely Harley Fletcher."

We welcome new friends to the New Zealand Edge who have registered this month from around the world:
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Alsfeld, Germany
Ardrossan, Scotland
Bangalore, India
Bangkok, Thailand
Basingstoke, England
Belle Harbour, New York
Berne, Switzerland
Binan, Laguna, Phillipines
Boston, USA
Brisbane, Australia
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Bundaberg, Australia
Cambridge, UK
Canberra, Australia
Chicago, Illinois
Cleveland, Ohio
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colorado, USA
Columbia, Missouri
Darmstadt, Germany
Denver, Colorado
Dublin, Ireland
Edmonton, Canada
Frankfurt, Germany
Gothenburg, Sweden
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Holmbury St Mary, England
Hong Kong
Illinois, USA
Iowa, USA
Istanbul, Turkey
Kovor, Palau
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Kwangju, South Korea
Lancaster, Kentucky
Lansing, Michigan
London, England
Langley,BC, Canada
Los Angeles, California
Melbourne, Australia
Metro-Manila, Phillipines
Nashville, USA
New Jersey, USA
New Orleans, Louisiana
New York
Notts, England
Nottingham, England
Ohio, USA
Oslo, Norway
Palo Alto, California
Perth, Australia
Phoenix, Arizona
Redondo Beach, California
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Rousee, Bulgaria
Salt Lake City,Utah
San Mateo, California
Seattle, Washington
Seoul, Korea
Singapore
Sonderborg, Denmark
South Wales
Sydney, Australia
Syracuse, New York
Tokyo, Japan
Tom Price, Australia
Toronto, Canada
Utah, USA
Valboune, France
Vancouver, Canada
Victoria BC, Canada
Victoria, Australia
Washington DC
Washington, New Jersey

And from The Edge:

STUDENT, FRANKFURT, GERMANY 
"Great site, guys - keep it up! I've been surfing for NZ expat type sites for a while now and hadn't found anything more in depth than "Buy Marmite Here!" advertisements."

WOODWIND INSTRUMENT REPAIRER, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"Great site. I'm so proud to be a NZer."

MONEY MARKET TRADER, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA 
"Love the site and the philosophy behind setting it up. Makes me even prouder to be a Kiwi. I look forward to coming home for good one day."

(I Love) NZ! 
"I noticed a tourist wearing an "I love NZ" t-shirt in the weekend and I thought: why is it that only tourists think of wearing such clothing? I think there should be a national I LOVE NZ day where we all wear I LOVE NZ t-shirts. There could be events all over the country celebrating cool things about NZ."
Editor: Agreed! In early November NZEdge will be launching an on-line shop where you will be able to choose from a range of t-shirt designs inspired by the New Zealand Edge.

RESTAURANT MANAGER, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"Well, what can I say. Finally a place where Kiwis who have faith in their country can meet, share ideas, and feel good about ourselves. Long live the "feel good" feeling of being a Kiwi. One can only hope that this is the start of something BIG."

TEACHER, NZ 
"I am a New Zealander by choice. I came from Latin America 35 years ago. I went back home for the first time last year, and after 20 days back in Latin America, I could not wait to come back to New Zealand. Upon my return, my heart cried for sheer joy when I sighted New Zealand from the plane. I would not live in any other country in the world!"

KATRINA CHUPEIN, MT HOLLY, NEW JERSEY, USA 
"Hi! I would love to hear from anyone from the Picton Blenheim area. I was born in Picton. (I was called Katrina Bain then). I just heard about NZ Edge: great to find a good site about New Zealand." kacee44@hotmail.com

RETIRED, MORRINSVILLE, NZ 
"Have just found your site. It's good to see positive things about our wonderful country. We have so much to be proud of and be grateful for but it seems that the pessimists are running the media and that many of us have been successfully brainwashed."

PAULI MONTES, CATERING SUPERVISOR, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, USA 
"I have been away from home since 1985. It would be nice to stay in touch with what is happening in my homeland. I am Maori and I seek other Maori to correspond with in the United States, specifically in the Chicago area." paulimontes@hotmail.com

INSURANCE, LONDON, UK
"Really great site, makes me very homesick."

TEACHER, COACH, SOUTH POINT, OHIO, USA 
"I have visited NZ 3 times in the last 2 years and have just fallen in love with the country and the people. I now consider it my home away from home. I want to keep up with everything that is going on there and find out any way I can be of service to this great country."

EXECUTIVE SEARCH, HONG KONG
"I am impressed by the NZ Edge site. As a Kiwi who has lived in and out of NZ for the past 20 years I am very much aware of the impact the NZ has on the rest of the world. Being in executive search it is statistically surprising how often I come across Kiwi's in senior roles around the world. Best success for the future and let's hope the AB's will be bringing some silverware home on Saturday."

QUALITY MANAGER, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"This web site was recommended during a recent conference. I am interested in improving NZers perceptions of ourselves. We can share in others' glory and use it to motivate ourselves, without putting people down."

AUCKLAND, NZ 
"What an excellent way of telling the world about this country. I will make sure my daughter in Spain learns about this site."

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
"Love NZ Edge to bits! Living in Australia despite the close proximity, often feels very far away, mainly due to the lack of news and information on the standard media, I must admit I get very nostalgic over the Air NZ Ads!! Thanks to you and your team for the site it makes all the difference, keep up the good work. Kind regards, Vanessa Cruthers"

SHAREBROKER, TAURANGA, NZ "Well done. It's all about changing the culture. Prior to 1987 we believed in ourselves, and many of our business "tall poppies" let us down. It is time to get over it, and I commend you for making a start.

PRESIDENT, EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA
"Great Find!"

VENTURE CAPITAL, WELLINGTON. NZ
"Congratulations on the site. If anyone is interested in the VC world in New Zealand please feel free to be in contact on grant.uridge@igrow.co.nz Grant Uridge, I Grow Private Equity."

BARRY DOWELL, DIRECTOR, CHRISTCHURCH, NZ 
"Food for the Soul. NZ needs to celebrate its people and achievements, this site is excellent. Barry Dowell."

WINERY MARKETING MANAGER, BLENHEIM, NZ
"I've been thinking...was impressed with your communication in the Sunday Times and have only just found the time to follow up, my neck is cricked from reading everything and I need to digest how I fit in to this but somehow I will thanks for the wake up call, very timely."

FINANCE CONSULTANT, REMUERA, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"A great site for the promotion of New Zealanders everywhere. I shall be broadcasting this to all my overseas friends and relations!"

PROJECT MANAGER, LONDON, UK
"Hi - I am a Kiwi living in London who is passionate about everything New Zealand! Have just had this site recommended to me. Love the design, layout and hot info. Looking forward to getting my regular fix of what's going down in Aotearoa and what Kiwis are up to globally! Cheers."

UK
"Love the site and it helps me feel great to be from New Zealand. The other weekend we went to a taste New Zealand day out in Richmond - it was great to see - bright faces with an attitude that makes you feel that we come from somewhere special. I think you can spend too much time in England - it's great yet it does get to you after a while."

COMPANY DIRECTOR, CHRISTCHURCH, NZ 
"Excellent idea to help NZ benefit from our people. We have a great range of ideas and experience spread worldwide. Let's tap into it! I am very keen to get email updates, and be actively involved. Also keen to get details so I can network with Kiwis offshore to grow my international investment business from NZ.

MANAGER, CHRISTCHURCH, NZ
"Check out www.foragefood.com for Kiwi initiative."

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS, LONDON, UK
"Fantastic! love the concept. Never knew there were so many famous and influential kiwis!!! Best wishes all, Reuben Aitchison raitchison@heathlambert.com"

MILITANT CARNIVORE, WELLINGTON, NZ 
"Great site. Give us more. Is this evolution or revolution?"

MANAGING DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND, NZ
"Great site, well needed positive angle to the NZ mentality. Keep it up."

TEACHER, AUCKLAND, NZ
"A great idea. We need to know what it is that makes us what we are - people who have an edge and live on the edge . Looking forward to enjoying the site."

CONSULTANT, MT MAUNGANUI, NZ
"I have a passion to be part of the rekindling of national pride; the bringing together of the hearts and minds of all our people, at home and beyond our shores. Through restoring dignity, NZ can truly be at the leading edge. Thank you NZ Edge for reaching out globally to acknowledge success and embrace our Kiwi identity." jen.active@xtra.co.nz 

PURCHASE MANAGER, UAE
"I'm excited since the day my application was approved for immigration to New Zealand, and.... am eager to get down-under there, to routinely breathe virgin fresh air, help make life fun and adventure,... that's my tiny Kiwi prayer. I guess that this intention is obviously fair when you've lived long under harsh desert care...from the melting sands of U.A.E.

MARKETING DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND, NZ
"Very happy to be part of the Network"

WRITER, AUCKLAND, NZ
"I've just discovered your site after seeing today's Sunday Star Times. Well done!"

RETIRED EDUCATOR, AUCKLAND, NZ
"Drawn in by the full page advertisement in the Sunday Star Times August 12th. Love the key words optimism, energy and motivation. Have given this site to my grown-up children too."

CREATIVE WRITING COURSE COORDINATOR, WELLINGTON, NZ "This is fantastic. Look forward to profiles of artists and writers. A great resource for the young and old."

COMPUTER SYSTEMS ARCHITECT, WELLINGTON, NZ 
"Great site. Good to see praise for tall New Zealand poppies. Let's hope we'll grow more!"

TEACHER, AUCKLAND, NZ
"I am New Zealander by choice. I came from Latin America 35 years ago. I went back home for the first time last year, and after 20 days back in Latin America, I could not wait to come back to New Zealand. Upon my return, my heart cried of sheer joy when I sighted New Zealand from the plane. I would not live in any other Country in this world." Jorge Figueroa

LEADING WRITER, ARDROSSAN, SCOTLAND 
"It is good to see a well designed informative site, that shows New Zealand off to good effect."

COMMUNICATION EXECUTIVE, HAMILTON, NZ 
"Very impressive site - fast, interesting, stuffed full of information without looking OTT."

GENERAL MANAGER, CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA 
"Kia ora Your site has just been referred to me. What a fantastic concept. Keep up the good work. He kone ra"

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
"I am actually a NZer living in Melbourne. I think the whole concept of the New Zealand Edge is great. The page has a great impact with so much to read and check out. Thanks. Judy Reid"

RETIRED EDUCATOR, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"Drawn in by the full page advertisement in the Sunday Star Times August 12th. Love the key words: optimism, energy and motivation. Have given this site to my grown-up children too. Looking forward to enjoying this site."

RETAIL MANAGER, PORIRUA, NZ "Your site seems very interesting. I am interested mainly for my own and friends/family motivational purposes. Thanks for such a great positive initiative."

OPERATIONS, DUBLIN, IRELAND
"Inspiring."

COMPUTER CONSULTANT, OAKURA, NZ 
"I saw your ad in the Sunday Star Times and have found your site intriguing. I will recommend it to a number of people in NZ and overseas."

TEACHER, OPUNAKE, NZ 
"Wow - what a positive site! Inspiring for our kids. Thanks."

ONLINE AIR EXPRESS OPERATOR, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"Brilliant and inspirational!"

DAVID WEUSTEN, FINANCIAL CONSULTANT, CHRISTCHURCH, NZ  
"I would like to support NZ Edge's initiative and offer my services to help Kiwis around the world. To see what I can offer, check my web site: www.fspnz.com. David Weusten"

CEO, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA 
"Great site - I am already recommending it!" 

IT CONTRACTOR, LONDON, UK 
"A showcase of things that show we have right to be proud of those who choose to be labelled Kiwis."

COMPANY DIRECTOR, NEW PLYMOUTH, NZ
"I like your vision of a future pathway for the good of all New Zealanders. I feel a need to join in on this journey and will welcome continued information."

NZ 
"This country is in trouble and I applaud any effort to improve things!"

DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"A very dynamic site."

WAITAKERE CITY, NZ 
"Great site. I publish a Rotary club magazine for which the site is great"

EDMONTON, CANADA 
"I am in Canada for 12 months with a working holiday visa. I was stoked to hear about this site so that I can keep in touch with the country I'll always call home!"

NZ 
"Excellent site, keep up the good work!"

FLOORING INSTALLATION, AUCKLAND, NZ 
"Just found the web page and really like the concept. Look forward to visiting frequently!"

REVENUE AGENT, SHORELINE, WA, USA
"I have just learned about this website, and although I am now a US citizen I still like to keep up on events in my native country."

WORLD
"Dear Sir / Madam: Thank you for such an informative site. Its nice to see someone lifting up excellence and highlighting it rather than seeing the 'tall poppy' syndrome. Well done and keep it up. Regards Mark Liddle."

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