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Could
we create New Zealand as the silver lining to the cloud of the world?
(Yes). This and other brilliant provocation and affirmation in the 100
or so posts from New Zealanders all around the world in the September
Mailbox. As usual, the best is at the end: the story of the ordinary /
extraordinary Pte Bruce Morrison, unsung WWII hero. We thank everyone for
writing, for their frankness and their engagement.
THEATRE PRODUCER,
LONDON, UK
NZ has a profile in the UK as culturally shallow. Advertising imagery mostly
about sports, still a satellite of the UK, a diluted version of Britain
without the sophistication. I think New Zealand needs to invest in the
raising the profile of its original culture and history - at the moment
you're a rugger bugger guest at the party with not a lot of conversation.
Make more indigenous films, write and export more original plays, novels,
exhibit and export contemporary paintings and sculpture, work out what the
deal is with pakeha maori relations and then present it to the world
alongside the All Blacks in the advertising. The public image for Kiwis in
the UK is desperately straight, unsexy, unmysterious and that just isn't
true. sort it out all you bright people!
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
AUCKLAND, NZ
I appreciate and value the ideals expressed through out the NZEDGE website.
As New Zealanders we must be proud of the achievements of the great
individuals, organisations and teams that we as a nation have produced.
These people are great role models and should be applauded and recognised
for their contribution on the world stage. I am concerned however that too
often the reverse applies. We knock our achievers, we accept (and almost
encourage) mediocrity from our young people. We must as a nation raise the
bar, set our expectations higher and most importantly celebrate our
successes.
COMPANY DIRECTOR,
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Wouldn't it be fantastic if all the talented kiwis all around the world came
home! The nation would be unstoppable: innovative, creative, dynamic!
Pragmatically, however, it is about perceptions, incentives, focus, needs,
opportunities, encouragement. After 23 years away, I am thinking about the
options and wondering how the many skills I have developed and which have
served to advance other nations, can be put to good use at home. At the end
of the day, bigger is not always better and besides, technology continues to
minimise the tyranny of distance and isolation! Apart from all of these
issues, we all get to the point where quality of life and environment start
to subsume all other perceived needs! Benjamin Pittman ptaust@pobox.com.
ATTORNEY, LOS
ANGELES, USA
As a Kiwi who's been away from home for almost 12 years, it's great to have
sites like this to keep me informed about the accomplishments of other Kiwis abroad and back home. I'd like to let other
Kiwis in Los Angeles
know that a group of us (including Aussies and English girls) have formed a
netball club in Santa Monica -- the "Santa Monica Waves." It's a
great way to keep in touch with your roots, and introduce the sport to
America. If anyone is interested, you can find us at www.Californianetball.com.
GORDON REYNOLDS
I am a regular visitor to NZEDGE and have read many of the thought provoking
contributions. I have wondered if you intended to develop a discussion forum
within the site. I know it is possible to comment on the various topics, but
the thread structure of a forum would help to maintain the topical focus.
I am particularly
interested in the NZ identity and brand. I have lived overseas for 10 years
and have traveled extensively, meeting up with other NZers wherever I am and
always making an effort to celebrate NZ day. Recently I have had discussion
with a number of disillusioned NZers who will not be returning and I have
made a point of discovering the reasons why. I am intending to return
permanently late next year and have found some of the messages from those
who have, interesting and unsettling. I believe that a forum would enable
the ideas, perceptions, likes and dislikes to be distilled into a useful
commentary on what the successful international NZer needs to help them
return and contribute. It can't all be entirely altruistic. Those of us who
have taken on international challenges and succeeded could have something
useful to offer, but we also need to be wanted, or want to be needed.
Regards Gordon Reynolds
RECEPTIONIST, LONDON,
ENGLAND
I love NZEDGE. I am a very proud Kiwi, so when an opportunity came up in a
London radio show to 'own' a personality from Showbiz, I jumped at the idea
to grab a kiwi entertainer. On a BBC website, my name
will be listed along with the great NZ comedian Billy T forever on the
'Show-biz list'. Billy left a wonderful impression on me as a young girl
growing up in Christchurch, and showed me how to laugh at my own Kiwiness,
and also appreciate this great land of ours, and the unique character and
sense of humour that Kiwis have. I wish they would put his show back on TV!
Cheers guys, and keep the edge sharp!
ART
DIRECTOR/DESIGNER, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA / DUBAI
What a wonderful experience to see that so many
New Zealanders feel exactly the same connection and pull toward our great
little country. I have lived in Sydney for some time working in Film. Over
the millennium some friends and I went camping on Great Barrier Island in a
very remote spot, it was this experience that hit my soul - what a unique
and beautiful land and how lucky we all are to have grown up in such a
place. I will return but wish to discover more of the world first. Having
completed my Masters of Arts in Film and Television (Specialising in Design)
I am looking for work in Dubai. I would like to work in a Media/Production
company or Advertising Agency. My strengths are in Art Direction,
communication, managing and knowledge of production. I also have a Bachelor
of Industrial Design and practical design experience in Graphics and
Products.
If there are any Kiwis
in Dubai I would love to hear from you regarding job leads or to make
contact as I plan to travel there soon. Also if you just want to share
familiar experiences. Thankyou for such a great site. benjamin_barrett@hotmail.com
ANAESTHETIC
TECHNICIAN, RUNGSTED, DENMARK
Hoping to meet other New Zealanders living in Denmark for social contact. Is
there a Maori cultural group in the Copenhagen area? Please contact Ruth c/-
jhedemann@post.tele.dk
IMPORTER/EXPORTER,
MUMBAI, INDIA
My family and I have had a wonderful and awesome experience of having lived
in New Zealand for over a year, after which we had to return to India for
personal reasons. I have been so enamored of New Zealand that, in my own
small way, I am trying to get bits of NZ into India, for the pleasure and
benefit of those who have not had the opportunity of experiencing NZ and its
products. I have already imported Barkers Food Products from Geraldine in
the South Island, and am in contact with Nelson Naturally, and hopefully
will get in their products also soon. Warm regards, Shabbir Nashrulla nash2000@vsnl.net
ENGINEER/INSTRUCTOR,
NEW YORK, USA
I have just returned from my first visit back to the Shakey Isles in four
years where I became aware of you and your great idea/website (can't exactly
recall where I learnt of you, maybe a great magazine called www.unlimited.co.nz. I work for the Ericsson company providing Multi
Media Messaging over mobile networks. There are many opportunities for 3rd
party application developers in this area at the moment. I am keen to help
and also learn. Blue Skies Ronnie.
SOLICITOR, HAMILTON,
NZ
I have been made aware of this site by reading the July 2002 issue of
Netguide www.netguide.co.nz. Congratulations on producing so much
positive news about this country. It is refreshing to read it. I think that
NZ has huge potential but has over the years suffered from a lack of vision
and leadership in government. Perhaps there are now signs of a change for
the better. Anything that produces pride in this country is a positive step
forward, and I think your site will help to make people realise, if they
don't already, that the country is a great place in which to live. Best
wishes for the future Norman Sainsbury.
RECEPTIONIST,
GRIFFITH NSW, AUSTRALIA
I am a regular reader of the "New Zealander" and a regular viewer
of Sky NZ News. I like to keep up with what is going on in NZ - sometimes
feel like NZ has disappeared off the face of the earth!! Don't hear many
good things about NZ over here in Oz so I was pleasantly surprised to hear
of this site. I have a Tim Finn CD playing while looking at this site and
I'm feeling slightly home sick!! I am returning to NZ for Xmas/New Year and
can't wait after being away from home for nearly 10 years. NZ is where I was
born and is something I'm extremely proud of - it brings out the best in me
ART CURATOR &
BUSINESS CONSULTANT, LONDON, ENGLAND
This site is excellent and inspiring. As Deborah Blank and I launch our
first New Zealand Contemporary Art exhibition in London it is positive to
see the success of other New Zealanders abroad. Kiwi Art Spark aims to
establish and change the perception of NZ Art in London and increase the
demand for NZ art exports. This site enables a network to encourage and
assist our New Zealand talents to be realised. kind regards Janine Shadbolt.
janine@shadbolt-nz.fsnet.co.uk.
COMMUNICATIONS
COORDINATOR, AUCKLAND, NZ
My daughter sent me your site which I found interesting thanks, particularly
the celebration of Kiwi innovation and spirit. You probably have not heard
of the Te Whaiti school team and their achievements against all the odds.
They have hauled in on a lot of inner strengths and Maori tradition to
relaunch themselves - perhaps you may like to add them to your site
somewhere. A number of volunteers at AUT and elsewhere have worked with them
to capture their transformation process as the Tipu Ake lifecycle which is
now shared with the world. It is attracting a lot of interest. Many students
at AUT and other young people are helping promote it. Check out the website
www.tipuake.org.nz Regards, Peter Goldsbury.
PLUMBER,
MIDDLESBROUGH, ENGLAND
As a British national, from an outside point of view if you like, I believe
that New Zealand should stay the way it is. I think you have a beautiful
country and some wonderful culture but I'm proud to say that you as a nation
are a part of us and I'd like to think most kiwis feel the same way. Who are
we to argue with history? it wasn't decided by us, yes we may disagree with
certain elements of our past but this still doesn't stop us from moving
forward. How would changing the NZ flag develop your individualism any more?
I believe that the Union Jack in the flag lets people know who you are and
the Southern Cross shows that you're an independent nation in your own
right. We cannot take that away from you nor do we want to.
I for one am proud knowing I can travel to NZ and not
require a visa, knowing it's part of who we are - it's almost home - the
same as Australia. I truly feel you need to embrace us as a nation and not
run away from us. Look at where our influence has got NZ. The crown,
parliament, prime ministers … the list is endless, can you honestly ask
yourself where NZ would be without our influence? No you can't because we
are just as much as part of you as you are of us. When people see your
national flag they know you're part of our commonwealth. Embrace this. What
are the alternative choices? Become a republic like America? No offence USA
but I like NZ and Britain just the way they are. I want to retain my
heritage and stay British just as you want to stay New Zealanders. So what
I'm saying is change is good, but ignoring your heritage and the union jack
flag is a crime. It is who WE ARE. Thank you.
DIRECTOR AND
CONSULTANT, WELLINGTON, NZ
It is a privilege to be born in New Zealand as its isolation bestows its own
form of education and self-reliance most people from other more populous
countries never get to experience. We think of ourselves as positive
achievers until we read the deeds of other New Zealanders and realise as a
nation we are gifted with a natural wealth we have never really fully
utilised. New Zealanders are not natural team players. If this forum can
cause New Zealanders from all around the world to work together for the
betterment of our country then it will have achieved something truly
remarkable. It is a step in the right direction and while I have a chance to
comment also urge us to celebrate our country's achievements rather than
always feign modesty.
WOULD BE SECRETARY,
HAMILTON, NZ
I returned in June from almost 9 years away and expected to find it very
easy to find a top-paying job as a P.A. I'd had some very good jobs in
London and felt they would stand me in good stead for getting a job back
here. Wow, have I had the wind knocked out of my sails! From being very
confident in my abilities, I am now feeling I'm just not good enough any
more. Not a particularly nice feeling. I'm even considering waitressing at
night to pay the bills. I am told that I should take my age (young 51) off
my CV and dye my hair ('losing' those becoming sparkly white bits in the
front which I like). Age was a plus rather than a minus in Britain as age
meant responsible, reliable, conscientious, hard working etc. etc. It seems
here back in AOTEAROA it just means "too old - put her in the round
file". Sad!! It feels so much worse because whilst travelling around
the world I've always proudly told people I've met how 'forward thinking'
New Zealand is, and without prejudice people are. Huh!! It's good to have a
site where one can vent these feelings. Thank you nzedge.com. Ling@heathermitchel.com
WEB RETAILER,
AUCKLAND, NZ
As an individual with a passion to see New Zealanders succeed, I welcome
your attempt to stir the grey matter. The internet is not about what you can
and cannot do. It is a platform that affords everyone the same
opportunities, without fear or favour - a very level playing field. I look
forward to learning more about what you do and how you do it. Best regards
Ian Miller NUTSHELL ian@nutshell.cc
www.nutshell.cc
RETIRED, TAURANGA, NZ
I love my country and long for it to be the best there it can be. My
pioneering forefathers have been here since 1842 and would be amazed at how
well we have all done, both Maori and Pakeha. The things I dislike are
perpetual griping and Maori bashing. It's so unnecessary we can all do well
and achieve and build on past achievements. This is a great site and so
inspirational. Best of luck and warm wishes to everyone.
CERTIFIED NURSING
ASSISTANT, BREMERTON, WASHINGTON, USA
I moved from NZ in 1990 to the USofA with my husband and two daughters, who
were then 9 and 4. We moved to a little town in Illinois, called Paris, with
a population of 9000. That was a big move and quite a challenge, as I had
lived in Auckland most of my life. My husband is an American, and the kids
have dual citizenship. Schooling here is very different than in NZ, and kids
have to stay until they graduate 12th grade (Form 7). My eldest daughter is
now 21 and is starting nursing school in the fall, she is also in the Army
National Guard. My youngest will be in 12th grade starting in the fall. I
have since moved from Illinois, and live in Washington State. (For those of
you who don't know where that is, it's two states north of California), and
I live in Bremerton, which is a Navy town. Seattle is just across the water.
Keep up the good work on the website!! ... Jenny Brandt jkiwi41@msn.com
BUSINESS WOMAN,
WARKWORTH, NZ
We have a web site selling New Zealand art and craft, specialising in art
that captures the colours, ambience and character of the cultures,
landscapes and people of New Zealand and elsewhere in the South Pacific. We
represent about eighty different artists, many of whom are well-recognised
in their field.
http://www.kiwiartz.co.nz
COMPANY MANAGER,
HAWKE'S BAY, NZ
This website is of interest to me as I have an expatriate son married and
living in Europe. Recently I canvassed all NZ MP's regarding some little
known factors regarding NZ citizenship and rights of re-entry to NZ, with a
view to getting a law change. This information could be critical to NZ
ex-pats living in countries which do not allow for dual nationality.
Officials have drafted our law and MP's don't always know what is the effect
of the law they have passed, especially an amendment snuck through last
December. I would be happy to supply this information for circulation.
Regards Richard Proctor. rproctor@clear.net.nz.
CREATIVE, AUCKLAND,
NZ
What an intelligent, comprehensive letter. ('A
new brand for New Zealand or a New Zealand visual language?' By Turi
Park, 18 February 2002) What an important discussion. Based on my work
in design and advertising, locally and globally, I'd like to suggest a
different take to this letter on the term 'brand'. I believe branding is a
lot more than 'distilling and empowering a trade mark'. Brands live in
people's minds - grey matter - not CMYK or RGB, as trade marks do. New
Zealand already is a brand. It exists as the sum of many individuals'
experience of our country. It is made up of the visual and non-visual icons
that move us. The stories we have heard. The people we have met. The food
and wine we have tasted. The sport, culture, geography and history we have
experienced in a myriad of ways. Our brand exists. What we need to do is
focus it, then grow it. I agree entirely 'we need to strengthen our national
identity and to unite currently disparate elements to form a strategic and
empowering proposition'. But I think we need more than a 'visual language'.
Our country is a lot
more than visual. The taste of our sauvignon blanc, the feel of volcanic
rock, the smell of just caught snapper on the grill, the sound of moreporks
at night. The creative expression of our nation is more than visual too.
What's a list of national icons without pokarekare ana? Our brand should be
big enough to encapsulate every form of experience and expression of our
country. I acknowledge 'brand' is an overused, misunderstood term, but it is
the correct one. People buy brands. Ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire, the
United States of America. Seriously successful brands. A full communication
audit is necessary prior to the further development and formalisation of our
national brand. I am positive this audit will reveal two major creative
decisions which have already been made by New Zealanders. The silver fern is
our icon. Black is our colour. But what next? How radical are we going to be
with this development? And will we and the world embrace it?
I see two options based
on the reality of what we are, or are to become, as a nation. In other words
the 'product' we are selling. If the product stays the same, the market
won't swallow a radical brand change. If the product develops radically, so
can the brand. Option A - The Dominion of New Zealand: It's the same product
so don't change the name. 'God Defend New Zealand' still rings true for the
majority. The flag is confusing and we're no longer a sub-brand, so there's
good reason to change. Canada showed us how to escape the British parent
brand with their maple leaf icon and red colour. The design challenge is to
put our silver fern on black so it doesn't look like a pirate flag. The
monarchy remains relevant, but perhaps every coin is overkill. Option B -
The Republic of Aotearoa: The crown has gone, so can the replacement name it
imposed. Time for a new national anthem to celebrate our official
independence. Our flag - see above. If the monarchy goes, surely so to will
the treaty. A lot changes about the product. A lot can change about the
brand. Either way, once we know what the product is, we need the best
strategic and creative minds in the country to develop our brand's identity
and communication. The designs and stories we take to our world need to be
singing from the same waiata sheet. Whether it's a stamp in a passport, an
olympic medal ceremony on the BBC, or an ad in cyber space - the expressions
that recreate our country's brand must be honest, intelligent, inspiring and
consistent. Our brand needs more than 'knowledge' too. It needs 'ideas'.
Some of the best ideas I've heard are contained in two of Kevin Roberts'
speeches - 'NZ on the Edge', 28 August 1998, and
'At the Edge', 6 October
2000. I'm no Kevin Roberts groupie - I found Turi Park's letter in ProDesign
- but I recommend you read them if you haven't. E James Bowman, bowpoms@hotmail.com.
PS 'bowpoms' because even though I'm proud to be a fifth generation Kiwi,
I'm also proud of my British citizenship that I received last year.
STUDENT, DUNEDIN, NZ
Dear Kevin, I have just read your speech and I thought I would write you
some personal feedback from the speech. You say that NZ should focus on
export and increasing the population but this would not help New Zealand's
long-term sustainability........... The food in New Zealand shops it such a
low grade compared to exports as all our top quality produce it exported to
the EU and US. New Zealand people should be getting the cream of crop first.
So what if we get more money for it aboard the race for money is nothing....
we don't need it..... we have every thing we need right here.
I'm so proud
that you are standing up for organic farming as there is no doubt in my mind
that it is the future. Our soils are being poisoned as at present farmers
are only turning to these methods of farming to increase yields to increase
there profits, money causes people to cut so many corners, it's sad that
there is not a collective vision to make our country as great! at as it can
be.
I agree about technology being a prime focus for our country helping
with education and communication..... as long as environmental sound
practices are used for producing and using the equipment. This whole deal
almost sounds Celestine Prophecy to me.... New Zealand could lead the way
for the rest of the world it has a unique position to do so. Learning about
energy in nature and people should be a focus of education. Also motivation
I wander what is the motivation behind alot of multi national presidents....
do they just want to make money and if so there prepared to rip people and
the world off......... if so what do they feel that this money would bring
them happiness??? Why are people driven this way? Are they stuck in a dense
vibration? Can the world evolve out of this state is it possible or does
there always have to have to have a negative side to the world as well as a
positive. Could we create New Zealand as the sliver lining to the cloud of
the world.... Is this what you're suggesting ? [YES - ED]
Pouring money into
tourism marketing would only increase visitor impacts on the environment
more people = more resources needed There is a fine balance that needs to be
struck regarding carrying capacity for our country. New Zealand should
withdraw from international competition we have every thing we need right
here... we need to focus internally before we even begin to branch out
international...... Being drawn into the unsustainable resource exploiting
American dream is a nightmare..... not the way forth for our country it is
far to short sighted and offers no long-term happiness... Population
exploitation would put so much strain on New Zealand's infrastructure.....
so you say you can create more infrastructure roads....more industrial crap
that our country does not need... Stripping it back to the roots is where
it's at..... natural living and sustainable living practices....money is not
important in our plan! et is.... Keep population low increase native bush
that grows naturally here grass and forest does not.... reduce visitor
numbers......... Queenstown is a mess such a naturally beautiful area
scarred by mankind forever.... irreversible damage is being done.... what is
happing to all the waste and rubbish that place is producing ......... no
recycling ....... it's being put in a valley that is adjoining a lake.......
nice one! To me there is nothing clean and green in that..... but people are
still clambering over each other to get there regardless. Government aren't
concerned their just looking at the increasing multi million dollars that
are being pumped into the economy every year. These are the sort of problem
are what happens when a balance is tipped over and this is what needs to
corrected and understood.
Sorry about all the
spelling mistakes, I couldn't get spell check to work. I just want to
genuinely help New Zealand in the best way I can. I'm studying Tourism at
Otago University, I would love to help you in your mission to create an
organic New Zealand. If however GE is allowed into New Zealand it puts this
entire dream at risk. The government is close to letting this happen New
Zealand needs your help to avoid GE. If you need any helpers to do any
action I am most willing. I'm still learning a developing my own opinions on
issues. Thank you taking the time to read my letter. Yours Sincerely,
Rebecca Bloomer
H E R O
E S M A I L
MANAGER, OAMARU, NZ
Excellent site. I wanted to suggest some other heroes for you to consider,
as I look after Totara Estate, the birthplace of the NZ export meat
industry. Our innovators were William Davidson and Thomas Brydone, who
together overcame great obstacles to begin our $4 billion industry back in
1882. Regards, Lesley Whitteker.
Editor: Check out
Lesley's piece on the Brydone and Davidson story in 'Chilly Bij Pioneers',
our latest addition to the NZEDGE Heroes series by clicking here.
FUND RAISING,
AUCKLAND, NZ
Hi, we are a dynamic, young medical charity founded by Dr Dave Jenkins, a
kiwi hero that we would love to see up here on your web site. Surf Aid
International is attracting a lot of attention on the world charity stage
due to its no-nonsense, no-frills approach to saving lives in the Mentawai
Islands, where 50% of all children die. Our charter is to encourage &
coordinate the support of the global surfing community and we enjoy close
relationships with many of the world's top surfers including our own Maz
& Jay Quinn, whose father Gary is on our Executive Committee. I have
much more information I could send but felt that exposure for Dr Jenkins
here on your marvelous web site may help raise public awareness in NZ. Dr
Jenkins' full story is www.surfaidinternational.org.
Please let me how we
can help facilitate this. Thank you and kind regards. Michele Cahill
Volunteer Fund Raising
Surf Aid International, Auckland
WRITER, OTTAWA,
CANADA
I read with interest you article on Rewi
Alley. I have two questions about
Alley which you may be able to help me with. The questions may seem odd, but
they are motivated by research I am doing on China in the 1930s and after,
and within the context of that research they make perfect sense. First
question: Did Rewi Alley ever fall in love? If so when and where? In New
Zealand? In World War I? In China? Second Question: What did Alley's nose
look like? In "Journey To A War", Christopher Isherwood devotes 8
pages to Alley. Isherwood describes Alley's nose as "short and
rugged", but none of the photos I've seen of Alley suggest that his
nose was thus; to the contrary it looks big, strong, and sharp. Do you know
of any place where there is a description of Alley's nose which contradicts
Isherwood's? This may seem like a ridiculous question, but it's not. I think
that Isherwood deliberately misrepresents Alley for reasons that it would be
to complex to go into here. Any help you can provide with respect to these
questions will be greatly appreciated. Yours sincerely, Geoff Simas
Editor: A great deal has been surmised about Rewi's 'love-life' and
sexuality. Most likely he was gay, though never outwardly - this may have
been one of the further reasons why he was viewed as an outcast by a
conservative 1950s/60s New Zealand. Anne-Marie Brady's MA thesis, "Man
to Myth: Rewi Alley of China", MA thesis, The University of Auckland
(1994) deals in some part with his sexuality.
We
chose not to emphasise this part of Alley's life, and his biographer Geoff
Chapple choses the same approach in his authoritative biography of Rewi.
VANCOUVER, CANADA
Dr. John Money is a diabolical and dangerous fraud.... The secret to his
"pet's" "female" minds is in short due to mind
control...Homosexuals are an unwanted byproduct of modern technology and
forced inception. Thank you... And it is true folks.... Dr. John Money is
friends with the Boogey Man.
TRAVEL AGENT,
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Hello, I am an expat currently resident in Melbourne and operate a special
interest travel business selling to the world www.travelcentre.com.au.- including NZ! An interest of mine is early
aviation and consequently I am promoting a travel package for aircraft
enthusiasts to visit the Timaru region for the anniversary celebrations next
March relating to Richard Pearse.
I am not sure if you are aware of the events planned for the weekend of
29/30/03 2003, and in particular 31/03 when there will be an attempt to fly
an actual replica (inc a replica engine made to original specifications). Later the same year I hope to enthuse some flight
fanatics to visit 'Kittyhawk' for the Wright Brothers 100th anniversary. We
intend to be there, on the beach, wearing 'Richard Pearse' T-shirts!
I enjoyed your site and
in particular the biographies. On a personal note I am currently involved in
researching a friend of my fathers, who to me represents one of the many
'heroes' of the WW2 period, who performed amazing feats under stress. Pte
Bruce Morrison received the BEM for driving an abandoned steam train of 400
wounded during the retreat from Northern Greece. Although never having
'driven' a train before he got it going and took it through 36 hours of air
raids to reach Athens in safety. He then went on to Crete where he was
captured, escaped, lived wild for 5 months, surrendered and after a
harrowing journey on starvation rations entered captivity in Eastern
Germany. Many escapes later (inc one where he dressed in a German Officers
uniform and drove a German staff car) he was placed in the infamous Colditz
where upon entering the gates he saw Charles Upham, a friend from Crete.
Charles Upham and Bruce Morrison were to remain friends thereafter bound I
am sure by both Crete and Colditz. I have just discovered that before he
even got to the front he pulled a young officer from entanglement in weeds
at the bottom of a lake in England prior to movement to Greece - took him 3
dives - a sign of his character for the future exploits. I guess there are
many unwritten stories, but this is one where there is a reasonable amount
of written data and a suitcase of his memorabilia, plus I was brought up on
the stories - some of them. Bruce passed away a few years back. I intend to
present this research to the Colditz Society in England and the Colditz
museum at Colditz. I visited the museum and castle earlier this year and
will be attending the society meeting with surviving veterans this coming
November in London. They know nothing about Pte Bruce Morrison other than
that the records show he was there. I think the British Officer/NCO class
system may have had some influence at the time! Upham, of course is well
known in the Society. Supposedly Colditz was an Officers camp, but 'bad
boys', such as Bruce were placed there as well. I have just posted off
copies of Upham's biography to both the society secretary and the museum
(for their exhibition as they have a portrait of Upham).
Although Pte Morrison's
story has some remarkable aspects that read like an old 'Boys Own' annual we
all should not loose sight of the fact that he was one of many who excelled
and perhaps did not receive the recognition they deserved. Most of them did
not crave this 'limelight' as was Bruce's trait, but in older life did
welcome some recognition. An example would be another friend of my fathers
who was a Lancaster Pilot. I chatted to him about things as my interest in
aviation found a willing participant. Through these discussions I learnt he
did 'two tours'! Knowing the survival statistics for one tour I asked why.
He said he volunteered because they needed experienced pilots!! One's mind
boggles with the shear 'guts' required to make this decision! And he
survived! He never bought a 'Golden Kiwi' ticket as he thought his luck had
been used up! Again, he was one of the many.Anyway enough on
that - hope this rambling might be of interest to someone who has conceived
a site such as yours. Cheers, Brent McCunn, Proprietor.
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ABOUT YOU
The New Zealand Edge community is located in 619 locations across the planet.
Recent
registrations at NZEDGE.COM
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S H O R
T S
FINANCIAL ANALYST,
LONDON, UK
Hi, The best NZ site I have been to. Forward looking, proactive, positive!
I am currently residing in London and am looking forward to returning to NZ
next year to be one of the negative brain-drainers. Looking forward to
returning to where we call home! Thanks for fueling my home-sickness! Loving
the speeches and photos. Cheers. Andrew
GORDON DRYDEN
Incredible article on Peter
Jackson. Had the pleasure yesterday of a two-hour tour of the equally
incredible Evans Bay "models" production and filming center for Lord
of the Rings. Bloody breath-taking. Gordon Dryden.
ELECTRICAL FITTER,
THUMRAIT, SULTANATE OF OMAN
At last, a website that has style and accuracy to it. I have been looking for
something like this for quite a while now. With your excellent links, I will
be coming back to do more research to emphasise how great "SMALL"
can be, to my American and Australian co-workers. Keep up the great work.
Vaughan Ferrow
MANAGER, AUCKLAND, NZ
Many thanks for providing such a detailed account of Ed
Hillary, you have helped my 9 year old finish a homework project and your
homepage has been entered onto our family reference list.
DOCUMENTARY PRODUCER,
SINGAPORE
Hi, Great site - makes my heart beat proud!
ADVERTISING, LONDON, UK
Good idea, nice tone, very
Kiwi! It's nice to see some doers rather than
just talkers - well done.
WELLINGTON, NZ
I have only read the intro, yet my mind is floating in the space of
expectation for some new kind of unfathomable mind walk. I like the way you
write. I confess I'm here for the pleasure.
DIPLOMAT, NEW YORK, USA
This is a great initiative. I'm all behind it!
COMPANY DIRECTOR,
AUCKLAND, NZ
I'll echo the sentiments on the mailbox pages and say this is a terrific site
and valuable resource. I wish NZEDGE the best in continuing to foster
innovation, information exchange, and integration for Kiwis around the world.
Hankins Parichabutr
MARKETING, PERTH,
AUSTRALIA
I've just discovered this wonderful website, and have emailed the URL to
all my Kiwi friends around the world in order to spread the word. This find
has made my day.
HIGH TOUCH - WELLNESS
PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTOR, LINDENHURST NY, USA
I have only just glanced through this site. I am enjoying reading through some
of our history. Awesome idea, keep it up. Sharon_nealis@hotmail.com
EDUCATION CONSULTANT,
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
At the heart of creativity lies connections, connections, and connections.
This site is doing this brilliantly. Go for it.
MUSEUM DIRECTOR, PATEA,
NZ
Kia Ora Edge dwellers. So much info on your site, am feeling pretty pleased
with myself, love the hero bios, inspirational. Life in Patea, South Taranaki,
is on the edge too. Am glad to have made the connection with you all out
there. Patea Proud.
TEACHER, NORTHAMPTON,
ENGLAND
I am a past member of the Ngati Ranana Maori Club. I was one of the originals
back in the 60's London Maori Club. I am of the Ngati Porou. My families are
the Kaika, Puha, Rangihuna, Mcdonald, Wanoa. At present, I am refreshing my
knowledge of the REO. I am also writing a historical short poem of my growth
through infancy to teacher qualification.
BUSINESS CONSULTANT,
LONDON, ENGLAND
Wow - I've just read one speech and I understand where you're coming from and
what you want NZ to become. I have sent it onto my English partner who I hope
to get to immigrate to NZ one day. It will be interesting to hear how he feels
about your vision. I shall be keeping an eye on this website.
BANK OFFICER,
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
First time I have visited this site....got it from The New
Zealander ...quite impressed with my initial visit.....
LEGAL COUNSEL,
AUCKLAND, NZ
Love the site. Thanks for taking time to inspire others & celebrate
the Kiwi-way.
PA, LONDON, ENGLAND
Thanks for this website. I was feeling homesick this morning and this site
really cheered me up! Thanks!
STOREMAN, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA
Excellent website.
LAWYER (PRIVATE
EQUITY), LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
This site is an
inspiration.
MARKETING
EXECUTIVE, KENT, UK
Fantastic website!!!
FORKLIFT DRIVER,
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
This is a great site for us expat kiwis to read about HOME.
SPORTS COACH,
BERRIDALE, AUSTRALIA
I left NZ 32 years ago but I have always held dear my true nationality and
would never surrender it. I like your website and encourage you in your quest
- it is an excellent project.
SALES, MACON, GEORGIA,
USA
Interesting site, will comment later regarding the departure of
New Zealanders for other parts of the world.
CO-DIRECTOR,
CHRISTCHURCH, NZ
Well done. About time. This country needs to shout about its heroes, not
hide them. Thanks folks, Steve Flynn.
LIQUOR PURCHASING
OFFICER, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Very impressed after my first visit to this site. Love the attitude &
am looking forward to checking in often. I'm still shattered by the All Blacks
latest last-gasp loss to the Wallabies, but the feature on John Clarke cheered
me up. We don't know how lucky we are!..& he's a legend. Yours in Kiwi
spirit, Steven Read.
TOURISM ACCOMMODATION,
HOKITIKA, NZ
Thank you for your site, having family overseas means they can keep in
touch with NZ and from their own Kiwi perspective. We are unique in how we see
ourselves and our place in the world, never more so than those from the edge
of the civilised world here on the West Coast. Keep up the good work.
JUMPMASTER, CAIRNS,
AUSTRALIA
100% Aotearoa, Kia Kaha. Go the All Blacks!
RETIRED, PICTON,
AUSTRALIA
Great page. I'd like the world to know more about NZ heroes.
ARTIST/ILLUSTRATOR,
FRESNO, CA, USA
Smashing stuff! New Zealand has some of the best & most outstanding
qualities! Great web site. Susan.
DESIGNER, AUCKLAND, NZ
Great work guys, lets get over that "Kiwi cringe".
BUSINESS CONSULTANT,
WELLINGTON, NZ
Great Site!
CHEF, AUSTRALIA
Kia ora, been in Aust. 5 years now. starting to miss
Aotearoa badly,
especially the bush, the people and the flagons. Things I hate about Aus are
racism, the heat and whinging Aussies.
SELF-EMPLOYED,
MANAWATU, NZ
I think your site is awesome. It is time NZers reflected a more positive
view of themselves. In traveling I have seen many cultures so I have a lot to
compare our attitude to. NZers need to start seeing how wonderful they are and
how much they have to offer their country and the world.
STUDMASTER, HAMILTON,
NZ
We have placed a link to your site on our new web page.
REGIONAL MANAGEMENT
ACCOUNTANT, SINGAPORE
Kia Ora! An excellent site to keep track of local news and comments from
Kiwis abroad. Keep up the good work!
JOURNALIST, WELLINGTON,
NZ
Great site. An inspiring find for me.
GLOBAL ALLIANCE
MANAGER, BELLEVUE, WA, USA
Interesting site, good resource.
STUDENT, DUBAI, SAUDI
ARABIA
OK I like this site and accept it …
ASSISTANT WINEMAKER, ST
HELENA, CA USA
HI! I'm loving your site, I am an expat who refuses to believe she is an
expat. I have lived here 4 years, and no doubt, will live here much longer.
People always ask me if I miss NZ and I always say yes. So this site is a
godsend, keeps me informed of all the stuff I miss out on... Thanks
EVENT MANAGER,
ENTREPRENEUR, HAMILTON. NZ
How many Kiwis passionately want to see NZ's flag changed to the silver
fern? I know I do. I would love to hear from other like-minded individuals who
see the silver fern as our true national symbol, the symbol that we should
carry with us into the global marketplace. Gary Boyd, Hamilton NZ riverpro@wave.co.nz
CAFÉ ASSISTANT
MANAGER, MALIA, GREECE
Just stumbled across this while looking for sites on my home town,
Waipukurau, why not give it a whirl?
BAR MANAGER, DUNEDIN,
NZ
Like what I'm seeing so far…
JOURNALIST, WOLLONGONG,
AUSTRALIA
I moved to Australia six months ago and checking out your website reminded me
that for a small nation, we are achievers on a global scale. It's great to
hear about the Land of the Long White Cloud when you are feeling homesick.
Keep up the good work. PS. Do you know of any Kiwi expat groups in the Sydney
or Illawarra area I could get in contact with?
CROUPIER, PERTH,
AUSTRALIA
First time on the website but love the idea of fostering unity among the
international as well as the local NZ community. Look forward to the e-mails.
REAL ESTATE
CONSULTANT, NELSON, NEW ZEALAND
The philosophy of this site appeals. The recognition and celebration of New
Zealanders achievements and successes world-wide has to be a step in the right
direction to provide an example and inspiration to the next generation. dianeneil@xtra.co.nz
FARMER/TOUR OPERATOR,
GISBORNE, NZ
Excellent website - an educational resource!
LAWYER, LONDON, UK
Very interesting comment on the supposed 'brain drain'. As a kiwi
currently debating whether or not to return home I found it useful. Dan
GRAPHIC
DESIGNER, AUCKLAND, NZ
it would just be fantastic if I could register to learn more about
remarkable Kiwis doing stuff... I've never felt so alive... keep on rockin in
the free world...
CONSULTANT,
WELLINGTON, NZ New Zealand
for me was the land of John Britten
(myself having been a motorcycle enthusiast since my teens) and 'The Piano'.
That was before I came here 10 years ago..(I am on Indian-born
"rubber-stamped" Kiwi). To me it is now a community of homely folk
who really are modest and at the same time exceptionally gifted. Having
travelled and lived in several parts of the world, I feel more strongly than
ever that New Zealand must retain its essence - the Kiwi spirit.
VITICULTURALIST, ST
HELENA, CA, USA
Very interesting site especially pertaining to new developments in
agriculture and organic developments.
STUDENT, WHANGAREI, NZ
Great site! i only just found it today with a link from Theonering.Net
being a KIWI myself, I love New Zealand sites with info about Peter
Jackson,
and your one was awesome!
MARKET ANALYST MANAGER,
PALMERSTON NORTH, NZ
Cool site - I'm a Brit, new(ish) to NZ and this is a really useful source
of information for me.
MINER (COAL), TIERI,
AUSTRALIA
Just found in the New Zealander thought i'd have a look, good to see a peice
of home again.
CREATIVE, WELLINGTON,
NZ
I agree Turi, investigation into the very fabric of WHO WE ARE must be the
only way forward. And even if we could lock this down for a moment, and stamp
it quickly, it will change before we know it. The depth of a NZ cultural
identity, its meaning and significance is not static but fluid.
CONSULTANT, LONDON,
ENGLAND
Best moment: seeing the pohutukawas in bloom. Worst moment: sneezing my
guts out after getting too close to the flowers. My constitution is less
fantail-like and more pigeon-like, so I'm afraid it's back to the
non-allergenic pollution and dirt of London for me...
VOCATIONAL COUNSELOR,
COBOURG, CANADA
I found your site today doing a search for "Kiwis in
Canada", as
after sixteen years in Canada I still get homesick. I'll visit often. Your
site is great - thanks.
SALES, GEORGIA, USA
Interesting site, will comment later regarding the departure of
New Zealanders for other parts of the world.
STONEMASON, BRISBANE,
AUSTRALIA
This site is a really good idea to link NZ up again.
LABOURER, ADELAIDE,
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
My wife and myself are from
NZ and we enjoy looking up NZ stuff on the internet.
PR, LONDON, UK
I love
this site and have been checking back religiously since registering....
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