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130
messages
Messages about inspiration, attitude and attraction, about impressive
New Zealanders, about our new flag, about living away from New Zealand –
and coming home.
Edge
Mail
Coming Home/Being Away
New Zealand Heroes
NZ Visual Language
E D
G E M A I L
HOLLAND, MI, USA
I just wanted to say that
I am a Yank who is married to a very proud Kiwi girl from Chch. We've been
here just over a year and while things are great between us and she is
enjoying seeing different aspects of American life and culture, she truly
misses and loves her native country. I just found this site today and knew
immediately that my wife would want to be a part of it. I'm doing my best
to learn about her culture as well, so I've learned to support Crusaders
and of course, the All Blacks. When I've learned the haka, I'll know I'm
getting closer!
STUDENT - HIGH
SCHOOL, PALMERSTON NORTH
Fantastic website - makes
you extremely proud to be a kiwi. REally really well done guys. As a 17
y/o its given me a much greater understanding of the people that make up
our great country. What lucky people we are to live here!!
MUSICIAN -
JOURNALIST, HAVELOCK NORTH
Huge congrats for the
positive celebration of NZers uniqueness in the world. I only hope to be
able to contribute significantly to the cause!
COMPUTER ANALYST,
BLOOMING PRAIRIE, MS, USA
I feel that New
Zealanders are friends I haven't met yet. I don't know why I feel that
way. I've never met a New Zealander. I've never been there and I'm not
sure I'll ever get the chance. I just want to thank all New Zealanders for
the good impression.
STUDENT, OXFORD,
ENGLAND
This is categorically the
most intelligent and thoughtful NZ website I have found. I am impressed. I
fully support what you are trying to do, and am so pleased to have found a
network that believes in what I feel very strongly, namely that leaving
New Zealand and staying outside of New Zealand for whatever reason (I
think you are calling it being "off-island", which I like the
sound of) does not mean that you are lost to New Zealand for good and
cannot contribute something worthwhile in the meantime. This is exactly
the category that I fall into, so your website "speaks to me"
very strongly. I have only just begun to look around here, but I will do
more exploring and you can expect more specific feedback in due course. In
the meantime though, thank you, and keep up the good work. This is
exciting and moving stuff.
CASH MANAGER, THE
NETHERLANDS
Awesome, great to see a
site that highlights the achievements of Kiwis both past and present, and
that puts a positive spin on things and encourages us all to keep pushing
the envelope. Keep up the news, views, reports and images!
STUDENT, STEVENS,
ENGLAND
Wow! I have goose
pimples. What a wonderful site! I stumbled across it quite by accident
while looking for something else entirely. As someone who has been away
from New Zealand for nearly five years and is likely to be away for a fair
while yet, it is so nice to find a site like this. Hats off to you! I will
be spending plenty more time here. Thanks a lot, you have made my day.
DESIGNER, NZ
Hello people on the edge!
Great site ... and great photos!!! We're currently working on a project to
promote New Zealand overseas. We're looking at building a collection of
photos from photographers and image libraries, based around the theme:
"The essence of New Zealand lifestyle". You've nailed it.
EARLY CHILDHOOD
TEACHER, UPPER HUTT,
NZ
What an amazing
inspirational site you have created. I looked out of interest to see if it
would be a good research tool for my children but found so much more for
myself. I could only leave knowing I will revisit soon.
ACCOUNTANT,
LOUISVILLE, KY, USA
Fantastic web site. I
have lived in Louisville, Kentucky for the last 25 years, but will always
be 100% KIWI in my heart. The few times I have been back to NZ have been a
reality check as to the clear blue skies, green grass, and beauty of our
home land. I love reading the comments from other folks who have found
themselves overseas.
EDUCATOR, TOKOROA,
NEW ZEALAND
I applaud the concept of
NZ at the edge. Have you ever considered that within NZ that there are
some places that are even more at the "edge". Take Tokoroa, a
town with a difficult economic past - our ethnic mix of people has been
living the world of the future for the last 50 years. From such a mix
fascinating possibilities emerge - e.g. Dan Buckley and Huffer. This
"edginess" is certainly true of other communities as well but
not enough people pick up the economic advantage of it.
LOGISTICS
ADMINISTRATOR, LONDON, ENGLAND
I went along to the
Waitangi Day haka celebrations in London, and felt a real buzz being
surrounded by so many happy bright young New Zealanders in London. But I
was saddened to hear about the protests at home that seem so much part of
Waitangi Day year after year. I would like to put it out there that there
is another day when we can celebrate New Zealand - September 26. This is
the day that New Zealand became independent from the UK in 1907 (while
Waitangi Day, in short, commemorates British sovereignty being established
over New Zealand). Let's have a day when all NZers can unite and celebrate
what makes us a great country and gives us the "NZEDGE". Praise
our heroes, remember our achievements, celebrate our cultural mix with
fireworks, parades and great NZ food & drink! I want to celebrate and
look to the future. Join me on 26 September for a more positive New
Zealand Day!!!
CEO, TRIESTE, ITALY
I live in Trieste -
another EDGE place - on the Edge of Europe - the Italians would say
"confine" confeenè - which is sad as it sounds like confine,
whereas in actual fact Trieste is a window on the world. Thank you for the
inspiration.
ENTREPRENEUR,
SHAANXI, CHINA
Great site, only found it
by chance. I work with Chinese women in rural towns helping them to start
their own businesses and providing support for their first year. If you
are familiar with Chinese culture you would understand the lack of
confidence these women have. Seeing the spark in their eyes when they have
created something to call their own is amazing. Thanks NZEDGE for the wise
words. I hope it is not long before we get a kiwi with attitude kicking
corporate butt in every continent ... just because we can ;-)
SALES DIRECTOR,
EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
Very interesting site - I
seem to remember that NZ honours
one individual each year - is it possible to add a section profiling them?
This will allow us 'international' types to keep up to date regarding the
major contributors of our time. If this site is intended to link the 5M
Kiwis globally - do you intend to add a section which identifies the
skills or capabilities that will benefit from 'linking'. Cheers, Wendy
STUDENT,
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND
I commend the creators of
this site, I am a passionate kiwi myself, who has an undeniable love for
our people and our land. It is heartening to see such creative people like
yourself use your talents to powerfully touch the lives of us kiwis by
guiding us in a modern and dynamic way to re-connect with our roots.
TEACHER, BEIJING,
CHINA
The Kiwi Club is run by
the New Zealand Embassy here in Beijing on the last Friday of every month
except December (when it's changed to another night, perhaps the second
Friday of the month). Starts at 6pm, finishes when the last person leaves
in search of food. Serves Steinlager at 10 kuai a bottle, and reasonably
priced Kiwi wines. Contact the embassy for details. It's a bloody good
time, too.
UNEMPLOYED,
GIBRALTAR
I have a facial tattoo,
but its not copied from ta moko. its my design. i am very found of da
Maori way but i would by no means invade their heritage. i've had 2
tattoos since i was 16 and i must say dat the 1 on my face although not
yet finished is da best 1 of dem all. i woz wondering if by any chance you
could with the permission granted 4rom da maori if it could be possible 4
u guy to let me have my last bit which is half my forehead done with a
proper maori design, if you could send me some pictures if possible i'll
be very grateful. do not want 2 copy any ta moko style this is why I'm
asking, which holds a meaning with much respect El Chicano.
MULTI MEDIA,
CLARKDALE, USA
Would love to visit New
Zealand. My father and mother have already visited twice, including during
WWII when my father was stationed there. Read many of your speeches; found
them enlightening; Go New Zealand! Jeff
PROMOTER, AUCKLAND,
NZ
As I embark on a journey
that is vaguely described by my occupation, I can only say "thank
you" for sharing your inspirational thoughts and all you are
endeavoring to do to make the world a better place. Good on ya mate! All
The Best!
STUDENT, SYDNEY,
AUSTRALIA
What a wonderful concept!
I am a very proud kiwi and look forward to the day I come back to
Aotearoa. My dad has developed a new technology which will revolutionise
quite a few different industries in the world, including aviation, so
maybe one day we will see him on the pages of your site!
CEO, KEITH,
SCOTLAND
Great site, I keep coming
back and reading a bit more. Planning a month's holiday in NZ to remind my
kids where they came from, before they all move out of the family home.
Current plan is for about Sept/Oct 04. Interested to meet up with any
friends who want to do so. Will be touring whole country, North and South.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE,
CHRISTCHURCH, NZ
We are a new company
based in Lincoln, Canterbury with a vision to produce and market novel
biomaterials produced from New Zealand's primary sector. We currently
produce novel proteins extracted in an intact form from wool fibre for use
as highly functional ingredients in cosmetics. We distribute these
globally through our strategic partner Croda International Plc.
MARKETING
MANAGER, LONDON, ENGLAND
I was wondering how we
might be able to get listed in your UK section. We are a Kiwi founded
Immigration Consultancy and help many New Zealanders to enter the UK or
extend on their time here. I would be more than happy to provide you with
any information you might need. Please take a look at our website www.globalvisas.com.
PRINCIPAL
CONSULTANT, SAN FRANCISCO, USA
Love the internet site,
makes you realise what an amazing country we have. Every week I look
forward to the site to give me update tidbits of information.
NURSING ASSISTANT,
LAKES ENTRANCE, AUSTRALIA
Have lived in Australia
for 16 years, and am feeling my homeland New Zealand (Dunedin) is becoming
a fading memory. Don't want this to happen. Thought joining this website
might restore that Kiwi feeling!! Denise
JOB SEARCHER,
CHRISTCHURCH
With your 'edge' notion
you've mimicked an idea of mine! This was my first attempt at a
webpage, written in html in 2000, it proposed "News and debate, at
the pacific edge of the Indian plate" - and that was meant to base
the idea scientifically and emotionally in a serious reality but linking
us to the world; here it is: Slices - News and debate, at the Pacific edge
of the Indian plate: An e-zine of letters, reviews, and investigative
reports on topical items in the fields of culture, arts and science, from
Edgeware, Christchurch, New Zealand. Keywords" culture, cultural
trends, news, letters, essays, ideas, investigation, language, art, arts,
science, debates, urban myths, history.
CUSTOMER SERVICE,
CARDIFF, UK
What a fantastic website - congratulations. I spent about 7 months in New
Zealand over the millennium period. I couldn't believe the beauty of the
country and the hospitality and lust for life that I encountered in
everyone I met. The people of NZ are certainly an inspiration. Not only
did I visit some fantastic locations, but I make some really good friends.
One of them I see has sent a message to this website, Clementine Fraser.
Clem, if you read this I've lost your e-mail address, don't know how else
to get in touch with you!
STUDENT, HIGH
SCHOOL, PALMERSTON NORTH
Fantastic website - makes you extremely proud to be a Kiwi. Really, really
well done guys. As a 17y/o its given me a much greater understanding of
the people that make up our great country. What a lucky people we are to
live here!!
DIRECTOR, LOS
ANGELES, USA
Went to the KEA kiwi meeting last night in LA and heard about this site. I
am a proud Kiwi woman who has felt a lack of true connection to NZ having
lived away from her shores for 11 years. I am so impressed with the heart
that this wed site has. Having read parts of this site I have new fire in
me to be more actively involved with New Zealand based business and
awareness of the treasures the NZ people have to offer this world.
C O M I N
G H O M
E B E I N G A
W A Y
WEB DESIGNER,
DALMERY, AUSTRALIA
Although I have lived in
Australia most of my life, I have never stopped being a New Zealander. One
day, perhaps soon, NZ will draw me back home. Keep up the good work with
your website in providing a link between NZ and the rest of the world.
SAVANNAH, USA
Hi ALL, I'm originally
from NEW ZEALAND. I've only been here for 6 months. I moved here to be
with my hubby who is stationed in Savannah. Life here is an experience.
And I miss home very much. There is no place like New Zealand. But, daily
I keep up to date with what's happening in New Zealand. I am still yet to
meet any kiwi's here. What I miss most is the beautiful beaches and real
quality kiwi food, also the countryside. GO KIWI's!!!!!!
ARTIST, BERLIN,
GERMANY
It's great stimulation
for a kiwi who's suddenly a stranger at home in Auckland, to discover that
we ain't alone when we live on the edge of the world map no matter where
we are. I pakeha live in Berlin for the while with my African husband from
the Caribbean and our 2 kids who are born in Barbados, and speak German
and English with kiwi accents. I was curious about any Barbadians or
Rastas from the Caribbean who might be living in NZ and discovered this
website showing where everyone else like me is living...wow cool stuff.
TARANAKI, NEW
ZEALAND
I met Maori Tane in Perth
and we made a baby. She was born there, and is an Aussie on her birth
certificate. We wanted our baby to be bought up 'kiwi'. She has New
Zealand in her blood. New Zealanders are a special type of people. Being
in Oz you see the difference between us and Aussies. We sacrificed
everything to come home. We sold and gave away all we had, came back with
nothing and had to start again. We were shocked at how people in NZ
struggle. Poverty is widespread and not questioned. People do not get paid
enough and pay too much for all the basics of life. It's not what you know
it's who you know.
And if people don't
know you they don't trust you and don't want to know you. Closed minds and
very protective and guarded. It has been very hard meeting people open to
giving love and not being scared. It has been almost 2 years since we have
been back. We came back with dreams and goals and living here quickly
tries to dampen your dreams. Discourage you from changing things and
reaching higher that what feels safe to others. Our dreams seemed lost and
only now after 2 years of trying to establish ourselves I am feeling like
our dreams can come back to light and be reached for. Why is it so hard?
New Zealand has so much to offer and people are worth so much more. It is
good to be here though. This land is sacred and to breathe it every day is
a homecoming. What we are about as people. Enjoy Aotearoa.
Occupation: Needs
to Change,
Auckland/Taneatua/Opotiki
Thank you fellow Kiwis for developing 'nzedge' to keep us all connected! I
have travelled and 'felt NZ hug me upon return!' I am proud to be a Kiwi,
proud as Pakeha to be connected to Maori through being a New Zealander. To
those of you not at home, keep us informed, share your knowledge and we
will do what we can back here to keep it safe and clean and positive for
your return.
HEAD OF BUSINESS
& IT, WHYALLA, AUSTRALIA
I love NZ and am proud to
be a Kiwi. I want to contribute in taking the NZ brand to its rightful
place in the world. Though I am presently compelled to be out of NZ
because of my job, you can not take NZ (in particular the South Island)
out of me. Cheers, Mas-Kamal
RECEPTIONIST,
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND
This is the first time I
have logged onto this site. I have lived in Glasgow for the past 3 years.
Before that I was in Nottingham for 2 years. I originate from the Hamilton
area in NZ. I love Scotland because it is very similar to the NZ landscape
and the peoples here are very friendly and have made me feel very welcome.
MELBOURNE,
AUSTRALIA
Thanks for the great
article on the brain drain. I have just discovered this website and am
relieved to find a cyber connection from here to there. I am conscious of
being another kiwi who decided to leave, and often feel I would like to be
contributing in a real and positive way to the NZ community, in fact I
have been working on an idea of a very real and supportive trans-Tasman
artist alliance, engaging in dialogue and collaborative exhibitions
between individual artists and institutions. I am currently looking for
opportunities to engage with interested people/groups. Finally a positive
recognition of the diversity and experience that the Kiwi Diaspora can
offer, I have often been made to feel somewhat guilty for my decision to
leave, but that does not mean that I have any less respect and gratitude
to the land and the languages that informed and moulded my life, ideology,
political awareness, cultural understanding and a very exotic perspective
of the world. The possibilities are endless, and that's exciting! Thanks.
Melissa.
CHRISTCHURCH
I'm an American that has recently settled with my Kiwi husband in
Christchurch. NZ Edge is a great website to help me learn about the best
NZ has to offer. Thanks for the inspiration for a Kiwi wannabe!
HOLLAND, MI, USA
I just wanted to say that I am a Yank who is married to a very proud Kiwi
girl from Chch. We've been here just over a year and while things are
great between us and she is enjoying seeing different aspects of America
life and culture, she truly misses and loves her native country. I just
found this site today and knew immediately that my wife would want to be
part of it. I'm doing my best to learn about her culture as well, so I've
learned to support Crusaders and of course, the All Blacks. When I've
learnt the haka, I'll know I'm getting closer!
N E
W Z E A L A N
D H E
R O E S
DIRECTOR,
NZ
I missed (maybe
overlooked) in your Heroes section mention of Bill Phillips, an economist
but also an innovator and an inventor. He built, in the 50's, a
mechanical/hydraulic computer that could model the flow of money in a
nation's economy. There's a good history of Phillips in New Scientist, 9
December 2000, Pg 46-47. Cheers Alec
PUBLICIST, NEW
YORK, USA
Are you aware of New
Zealand artist Tama Waipara who has just released his debut album
"Triumph of Time" in the US this month to much critical acclaim.
He will be performing at New York Summerstage, June 20th 3pm in Central
Park opening for jazz legends Olu Dara and Dave Murray. For further
information on this artist, contact: triumphobliq@yahoo.com
SALES/LOGISTICS
ADMINISTRATOR, LONDON
I found another kiwi hero
in my research into greener fuels, who is making waves in Europe. Richard
Gapes is leading a team of innovators in Austria, researching ways to
improve production of fuel from biomass and vegetable oil. Austria has
been using biodiesel for over 10 years, and now Richard is helping to
improve on some of the most advanced technology in this field anywhere.
His title is Head of Process Engineering, Technical University of Vienna,
Institute of Process Engineering. He studied Chem. & Matls at from
Auckland Engineering School, then Biotechnology at Massey University.
Richard, here's to you, and a more environmentally friendly future for all
of us!
STUDENT,NEW ZEALAND
I am 12 years old and I
am doing a study on Kate Shepard and I thorght that your article was great
because it helped me a lot. From Emily
STUDENT,
HERTFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND
What fantastic insight
into Katherine Mansfield's life. I am currently taking a BEd degree at
University of Hertfordshire and have been given an assignment to do which
I am researching. It is The Voyage and I would love to get a more deeper
understanding of what she was trying to say about herself through this
story. Please could you send me information on The Voyage.
You have given me a great perspective of her work and life through this
website. I am most definitely going to read more of her stories. Many
thanks, Mrs J Slome. tonylynwood@aol.com
NZ
Richard Pearse article
was very informative. I'd love to see a movie made of his life story. I've
only seen the TV1 version which I managed to get from the library.
MATHEMATICIAN,
LONDON, ENGLAND
I like your Kiwi heroes'
page, it is a great history. You list a
mathematician I have never heard of, but you fail to mention NZ's greatest
mathematician. His name is Vaughan Jones and he is professor at UC
Berkeley and Auckland. He was awarded a Fields Medal, which is more or
less equivalent to a Nobel Prize, which makes him among the top 100
mathematicians of the 20th century. He is still alive (he's about 50).
IT CONSULTANT,
PERTH, AUSTRALIA
Hello ... Thought you
might be interested in updating your excellent biographical page on Nancy
Wake given that the Australian government has finally recognised her
incredible achievements in France during WWII. On March 3rd, 2004 at
Australia House in London, the Australian Governor-General presented Nancy
Wake with Australia's highest honour when she was made a Companion
in the Order of Australia. The Australian government's long-standing
view that Nancy Wake was not entitled to an Australian honour as she was
born in New Zealand was too-long in being overturned. Considering the fact
that the United States and Great Britain also presented her with post-war
medals despite the fact that she was neither American nor British also
shows how petty and vindictive the official Australian stance was. Perhaps
now that Australia has corrected its error, her native New Zealand will
also recognise her incredible life and present her a well deserved honour.
Regards, Justin Wigg, justinwigg@yahoo.com
AUCTIONEER, PACIFIC
PALMS, AUSTRALIA
Congratulations on your
web site and concept. I discovered it by accident when searching for
articles on Nancy Wake. Your articles on both Nancy Wake and Charles Upham
are excellent. However, it is shameful that Nancy lies dying, destitute
and alone while our governments are sending the next lot of cannon fodder
off to war zones. Your site is one of the very few that have reported her
old age and condition. Congratulations.
FORKLIFT DRIVER,
NEW ZEALAND
The Britten is and still
is to me the most amazing looking bike that I have ever seen and still is
today. John was a legend in his own right and if he was still alive today,
well, God only knows what the Britten motorbike would look like now.
PHOTOGRAPHER,
PORTLAND, USA
I was quite intrigued by
your Peter Jackson biography, and of course I'm an enormous fan of his
work.
PROGRAMMER, KELLER,
TX, USA
You might consider
including Kiri Te Kanawa in this section..... She certainly deserves it!!
STUDENT, DENVER,
USA
I'm doing a school
project about Everest and your article about Sir Edmund Hillary was really
helpful and interesting. I had no idea how much he did besides climbing!
EDITOR, PORIRUA, NZ
Hi guys. I'm registered
and already get the email newsletter. Just thought I'd let you know that
your home page now features as a link on one of my hobby pages called
"New
Zealand's Many World-Beaters" I add a few world champions now and
again, maybe occasionally one that you haven't featured.
MANUKAU, NZ
Your heroes section is
too historical. How about profiles of contemporary NZers making
"waves" now, e.g. filmmakers, sportspeople?
ARTIST, NEW YORK,
USA
Where are our visual
artist heroes? Come on! Frances Hodgkins, Colin McCahon, Len Lye. For
starters! Come on! NZEDGE is the coming into consciousness of our
Diaspora. This is a moment to relish. Our unrequited love for our beloved
country is no longer. We are now Whole and at ONE wherever we are for this
consciousness exits, in us, in every one of us.
N
Z V I
S U A L L A N G
U A G E
RETIRED, TE AWAMUTU
Love your idea of the new flag with the Silver fern. Needs the red
band at the bottom to set it off.
HAMILTON, ENGLAND
Why is the silver fern the symbol of New Zealand?
EDUCATOR,
WELLINGTON
Great site. Good place for those kiwis around the world to debate the flag
issue. In the great debate of a new flag we need to realize that we cant
just pick a symbol and a colour, willy nilly, because from time immemorial
flags, their shapes, symbols and colours have had international meaning,
recognition and emotive context. However, if we are to dispense with such
rules and go our own way there are still both international and internal
sensitivities to consider:
Do we want a flag
which represents the dominance of white over black?
Do we want a flag
which suggests the aggression of an assegai (the spear of a
Berber/Moor/Muslim Warrior?)
Do we want a flag
which suggests the white feather of cowardice?
Do we want a flag
which suggests the black of piracy?
Do we want a flag
which suggests the flagrant insecurities of a third world nation?
For those who need to
reflect the British heritage of our national origins I like the suggestion
that we adopt that chosen by early Maori -the white ensign - but with the
southern cross mounted over the juncture of the cross.
But for those who need
to reflect a british heritage I say we should remember that if it weren't
for the British the new world countries wouldn't exist. It is the millions
fleeing the injustices, repressions and inequities of Britain to build a
better world that we have to thank. In memory of whom I say dump the Union
Jack. We are NOT British subjects and haven't been since, as Commonwealth
citizens 1983, but as New Zealand citizens since formal independence in
1947.
We have lived,
prospered, fought and won under the stars unique to our part of the world.
They do identify us and our place in the world. Lets be proud of them as
our own, on a background of Pacific Blue. That would get my vote.
Lets do it NOW before
Oz beats us to it, again.
V Cooper
EIGHT REASONS FOR A NEW NEW ZEALND FLAG
A chef from Sydney
sent us this message, which is from the http://www.nzflag.com
website:
1. A flag is meant
to be flown
Flags should be highly visible symbols of a nation’s presence. Because
the current Union Jack-based flag does not resonate with New Zealanders,
it is comparatively infrequently flown. Its uses are mainly confined to
official buildings and occasions. A visit to any town in America or
Switzerland, for example, shows what happens when a flag is a potent
emotional symbol. The New Zealand flag needs to have emotional and
symbolic potency in order for it to be embraced and used by New
Zealanders.
2. A flag needs to
be instantly recognisable
Test after test shows that the current New Zealand flag is immediately
confused with flags of other countries, especially Australia. In many
instances, a flag is used in an international context. There is no
question that the Silver Fern is the most recognised symbol of New
Zealand. For over a century the Silver Fern has been the emblem of our
sports men and women. The Silver Fern is used extensively as a symbol by
Government, tourism, trade organisations and commercial brands. The Silver
Fern says "New Zealand".
3. A flag is an
international symbol
New Zealand competes with other countries, cities, and commercial brands.
Countries with the strongest, simplest flags tend to have the most
cut-through impact. Today, commercial brands command greater recognition
than most flags. As an export country competing on the world stage, we
need our flag to be strongly competitive from a brand/ symbol/icon point
of view.
4. A flag needs to
connect emotionally
The heart needs to beat faster on sighting of our country’s flag. The
Silver Fern is etched in the memory of great victories by the All Blacks,
our runners Jack Lovelock, Peter Snell and John Walker, the rowing eight
from Munich. The Silver Fern conjures up emotions of grit, guts and
genius. It says, "take on the world and beat it". These are
emotions we need to encourage.
5. A flag should
represent great design
The Government is committed to best practice design through the Design
Industry Task Force. Great design is a feature of New Zealand’s
creativity. From the founder of modern industry design practice, Joseph
Sinel, through to Lord Of The Rings, our design standards have been
world-leading. Our flag needs to match this standard. In today’s
environment the current Union Jack-based flag is simply bad design, poorly
composed, a muddle of ideas, thematically derivative and unoriginal. Some
leading newspaper editorials have called the current flag "an
absurdity."
6. A new flag can
honour our past
The Silver Fern has been a feature of our iconography for well over a
century. The All Blacks made it their official emblem in 1893. It first
appeared on an official New Zealand flag in 1908. The Silver Fern was the
predominant badge of our army in World War I, and the official insignia of
the 2nd New Zealand Division in World War II. Changing from the Union
Jack-based flag does not depreciate the sacrifice of men and women
soldiers who fought in two world wars. Their efforts are recognised
through permanent memorials in every New Zealand town, and through the
commemoration of Anzac Day each year.
7. A new flag
should say one thing
The job of a flag is to instantly signal the country of origin in the
simplest, quickest, most potent manner. This means utilising a single
powerful image rather than several elements and thereby diluting the
potency of the symbol. There are many mediums for embroidering the layers
and textures of our story from a Coat of Arms through to art and music.
The job of the flag is visibility, instant recognition and emotional
cut-through. Our belief is that the stylised Silver Fern does the
strongest job of satisfying the greatest number of New Zealanders at any
one time.
8. The times they
are a changin’
Symbolic change has been a feature of the governmental environment, with
the scrapping of the Privy Council, the establishment of a New Zealand
Supreme Court and the abolition of knighthoods. A new flag is not advocacy
for New Zealand to become a republic (many commonwealth countries do not
have the Union Jack in their flag). A Silver Fern-based flag blends our
past, our present and our future into one emotional symbol. A new flag
gives energy and a sense of independence and self determination in this
new millennium.
We need a new flag that stirs the heart and focuses the mind. It’s
time to move!
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We welcome new friends to
the New Zealand Edge who have registered this month from around the world:
Aarhus,
Denmark
Adelaide, Australia
Apia, Samoa
Athens, Greece
Atlanta,
USA
Baden, Germany
Bangkok, Thailand
Barcelona, Spain
Beijing, China
Bellingham, WA, USA
Beltsville, USA
Berlin, Germany
Birmingham, Alabama USA
Blooming Prairie, MS, USA
Bolzano, Italy
Bournemouth, England
Brisbane, Australia
Buckinghamshire, England
Budapest, Hungary
Buderim,
Australia
Busselton, Austria
Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Calistoga, CA, USA
Calgary, Canada
Cambeley, England
Canberra, Australia
Cape Town, South Africa
Chevreuse, France
Chicago, USA
Christianburg, USA
Clarkdale, USA
Coker, AL, USA
Coogee, Australia
Cooya Beach, Australia
Crestline, CA, USA
Dallas, TX, USA
Dalmeny, Australia
Denver, CO, USA
Doha, Qatar
Dublin, Ireland
Dundee, England
Edinburgh, Scotland
Emu Park, Australia
Eugene, OG, USA
Feng Yuan, Taiwan
Fochabers, England
Funchal, Portugal
Geraldton, Australia
Gibraltar
Glasgow, Scotland
Gold Coast, Australia
Hamilton, England
Hartford, CT, USA
Hong Kong, China
Hot Springs, AS, USA
Houston, TX, USA
Huntington Beach, CA, USA
Hurricane, WV, USA
Innisfail, Canada
Ipswich, MA, USA
Lake Cowichan, Canada
Lagos, Nigeria
Las Vegas, NV, USA
Logan City, Australia
London, USA
Long Beach, CA, USA
Longmeadow, MA, USA
Louisville, KY, USA
Kamakura City, Japan
Karachi, Pakistan
Kashan, Iran
Keith, Scotland
Keller, TX, USA
Kilmore, Australia
Kirkcaldy, England
Kowloon, Hong Kong
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Lafayette, USA
Laguna Woods, USA
Lahore, Pakistan
London, England
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Louisville, KY, USA
Mackay, Australia
Manchester, England
Madrid, Spain
Malabon City, Philippines
Manhattan Beach, LA, USA
Massachusetts, USA
McLachlan, USA
Melbourne, Australia
Mondragon, Spain
Morganville, USA
Mount Forest, Ontario, Canada
Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea
Mount Tamborine, Australia
Multan, Pakistan
New York, USA
Oakridge, USA
Oslo, Norway
Ossipee, NH, USA
Oxford, England
Over Alderley, England
Pacific Palms, Australia
Palmdale, USA
Paris, France
Pergamino, Argentina
Perth, Australia
Portland, USA
Portsmouth, England
Quebec, Canada
Rensselaer, NY, USA
Rochester, USA
Sahiwal, Pakistan
Salisbury, England
San Francisco, USA
Santiago, Chile
Savannah, USA
Seattle, USA
Sennelager, Germany
Shaanxi, China
Singapore
Spokane, USA
St Louis, USA
Stevens, England
Surathani, Thailand
Surfers Paradise, Australia
Swanney, USA
Sydney, Australia
Tokyo, Japan
Toronto, Canada
Treungen, Norway
Trieste, Italy
Tweed Heads, Australia
Vancouver, Canada
Viechtach, Germany
Vientane, Laos
Washington, USA
Whyalla, Australia
Young, Australia
And from The Edge:
Auckland
Akaroa
Ashburton
Blenheim
Cambridge
Christchurch
Dunedin
Golden Bay
Hamilton
Havelock North
Hunterville
Huntly
Invercargill
Kaitaia
Kapiti Coast
Knippers
Keirkeri
Manukau
Napier
Nelson
New Plymouth
Northland
Oamaru
Ohope
Opotiki
Palmerston North
Porirua
Rotorua
Rotterdam
Taneatua
Taranaki
Taumarunui
Te Awamutu
Te Puke
Temuka
Tokoroa
Upper Hutt
Waiuku
Wanganui
Waitakere
Wellington
Whakatane
Whangarei
S H O R T S
SPECULATIVE INVESTOR,
BRB
I like what I have seen so far.
MOUNT FOREST, ONTARIO,
CANADA
Kiwis, really can fly.
ART DIRECTOR, MAKATI,
PHILIPPINES
As it's still a very new concept, the NZEDGE concept should be propagated in
the Philippines as well.
STUDENT, KARACHI,
PAKISTAN
GOD bless New Zealand.
RETIRED, LAGUNA WOODS,
USA
Looking forward to your news. I would like to see your country, and enjoyed
what I have read.
EDITOR, CANBERRA,
AUSTRALIA
Always looking for kiwi science and technology stories.
BUSINESSMAN, BANGKOK,
THAILAND
Just to let you know ... I'm already registered, but have relocated from
Singapore to Bangkok. Keep up the good work.
EXCAVATOR OPERATOR,
GERALDTON, AUSTRALIA
Hi my name is Doug. I still own a dairy farm in Western Southland, but now I
own a home in Geraldton, Western Australia.
MACHINE OPERATOR,
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
Well at the moment I'm kinda new to this area, but sounds all good to me ...
cheers ... Shande.
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER,
CHRISTIANBURG, USA
I am looking for contact information on bodypaint artist Joanne Gair. My
fiancé and I are looking for elope in NZ and would love to gain any
information as to beautiful locations, etc.
STUDENT, TOKYO, JAPAN
Hi, I am interested in Peter Jackson and the nature of NZ. I'd like to work
there right away! Because people have to be able to co-exist with Nature. I
know I must go to NZ! Thank you. Aiko
S H O R T S
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Love the site, very informative, it brings a sense of identity and
togetherness for many of us expats living abroad. Keep up the good work.
CARER, EMUKA, NZ
The New Zealand Edge is BRILLIANTLY fresh and clean, bright, young and
refreshing website of New Zealand, providing essential fluid for a thirsty
land. Wonderful work!
PERTH, AUSTRALIA
I have NZEDGE in my "favorites" list, and visit whenever I can. This
is "lump in the throat" stuff. I get back as often as I can. Keep it
up!
OVER ALDERLEY, ENGLAND
Excellent site, thought provoking, positive and uplifting.
JOURNALIST, CALGARY,
CANADA
Fantastic website, brilliant. Makes me want to come home, yet makes me proud
to be a Kiwi even though I'm away. Kia Kaha!
LAWYER, LONDON, ENGLAND
Congratulations. I love this site - it's refreshing to be a New Zealander and
have that celebrated - and for acknowledging that you can love NZ without
living there. Fantastic!
PHILOSOPHER AND
ENTREPRENEUR, CHRISTCHURCH, NZ
After 3 years of loving this site, I have finally signed up!
DESIGNER, NEW PLYMOUTH,
NZ
Fantastic! Can't believe I only just found this now. I completely support
these ideas! Fantastic!
ZOOKEEPER, MELBOURNE,
AUSTRALIA
Kia ora! Stumbled upon this website and it totally made my day! I miss home
heaps and this site is like a photo album for me but more!! Good on you!! Ka
kite, Sam
PRESIDENT, CALISTOGA,
CA, USA
Great site and enjoyed reading your ideas on promoting New Zealand - you're
right on target.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
OFFICER, WELLINGTON, NZ
I found your website purely by accident while researching. It makes me feel
proud to be a 'kiwi' ... beautiful pictures and inspiring stories ...
Thanks!..:-)
ARCHITECT, LONDON,
ENGLAND
What a great site - NZ does so many things really well it's fantastic to be
able to read about some of them.
EXECUTIVE COACH,
WELLINGTON, NZ
I've only just found out about this great website by reading an article about
Kevin Roberts. I will be an enthusiastic visitor to a site which promotes the
essence of New Zealand and New Zealanders.
NORTH VANCOUVER, CANADA
What an awesome site, thank you.
PR, WELLINGTON, NZ
Great website! Love the transmit link.
CONSULTANT, AUCKLAND,
NZ
Brilliant website - needs more exposure and marketing to become fully
effective.
WELLINGTON, NZ
Great website! Extremely useful for looking up New Zealanders!
DRIVER, KILMORE,
AUSTRALIA
Great site. Keep up the good work. Hopefully I can come home for a visit this
year ... fingers crossed.
PROGRAMME MANAGER,
LONDON, ENGLAND
Great site - about time someone started putting NZ up there and stop all the
mumbling about how good NZers really are.
STUDENT, AUCKLAND, NZ
Excellent, informative site.
IT DEVELOPER, LONDON,
ENGLAND
Just another proud Kiwi
MARKETING MANAGER,
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
I am intrigued from a recommendation from another Sydney based Kiwi who is a
big fan of the site and the idea behind it.
AUCKLAND, NZ
Very interesting site. I notice a lot of New Zealanders live overseas but
always have New Zealand in their hearts no matter how far away they are. Cool.
PHARMACEUTICAL SALES,
MULTAN, PAKISTAN
NZ is surely a great country - the people seem to be loving, kind and
progressive. Progressive nations are the ones worth mentioning.
ENGLISH TEACHER,
BERLIN, GERMANY
Your site is refreshing proof that the old 'cultural cringe' is thankfully in
its final death throes. GOOD TO SEE!
PROJECT MANAGER
BOURNEMOUTH, UK
Sounds interesting - I concur with your sentiments - local heart, global soul.
I'm an expat Cantabrian, been in the UK 10 yrs, coming out of decade of tunnel
vision, starting to look out again....
PRESIDENT AND CEO,
LONDON, ENGLAND
Thanks for the email letters - I really appreciate it.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER,
NELSON, NEW ZEALAND
Interesting site, just stumbled across it, have spent over an hour here now!!
Keep up the good work...
HOUSEWIFE, LONGMEADOW,
MA, USA
Great to see a site for Homesick Kiwis. I miss old NZ but the experience here
is worth while, especially since the kids are getting great schooling.
URBAN DESIGNER,
WELLINGTON, NZ
Great website to find and I will send it on to some of my overseas friends.
Yours, Yvonne
WELLINGTON, NZ
Great website! Extremely useful for looking up New Zealanders!
INVESTMENT ADVISOR,
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND
This site is a great idea!!!
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND
Great website to find and I will send it on to some of my overseas friends.
NZ
Very interesting. Have book marked it for further reference.
LAS VEGAS, USA
This is a great site!
ARTIST, BARCELONA,
SPAIN
Looking to make contact with any other NZers living in Spain.
CO-DIRECTOR
ENGINEERING, BUDERIM, AUSTRALIA
Kia ora. I was introduced to this site via the old friends' site. I am
fortunate to get back to NZ, staying three months catching up with the whanau.
Keep up the good work.
MIDWIFE, EMU PARK,
AUSTRALIA
Interesting concept. Good luck.
TELECOM ENGINEER,
DALLAS, USA
Great articles. Makes me proud to be a kiwi!
MOTHER AND MODERATOR OF
WEBSITE HAMILTON, NZ
First time I have found this place and yes I will be spreading the message on
to a few people, so don't be surprised if you receive a lot of registrations
soon.
DISABILITY PENSIONER,
GERALDTON, AUSTRALIA
Well we are all from the same place, but live in other countries. But hey LOVE
the LAND OF THE LONG WHITE CLOUD!!
COORDINATOR, SYDNEY,
AUSTRALIA
Great and innovative idea, at least now Australia won't be able to claim this
one hmmm then again LOL.
RETIRED, WHANGAREI, NZ
Thanks!
LAWYER, WELLINGTON, NZ
I have returned from 5 years in Indonesia during the late 1990s and am keen to
assist New Zealand interests progress in that region.
RESEARCHER, WELLINGTON,
NZ
Eagerly keeping abreast of my way of thinking...
GLOBAL E MARKETER,
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA
Very nice and useful website!!! :)
UNIVERSITY ASSISTANT,
SAN JOSE, USA
I have registered my daughter as she is soooo homesick for NZ!
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SAN
FRANCISCO, USA
I have registered my son. I hope he enjoys your site.
GRADUATE STUDENT,
MCLACHLAN, USA
I am a grad student in Chicago, and I'd love to get in touch with any other
NZers here.
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE,
WELLINGTON, NZ
A fantastic site, a melting pot of artistic splendor!
YOUTH WORKER, PERTH,
AUSTRALIA
Fantastic site, brings back pride to be a KIWI and links me back with home.
Great stuff, keep it up!
DOCUMENT CONTROLLER,
PERTH, AUSTRALIA
Glad I found a website that features kiwi sounds. Ordered one thru this
website.
LAWYER, LONDON, ENGLAND
Congratulations. I love this site - it's refreshing to be a NEONZ and have
that celebrated - and for acknowledging that you can love NZ without living
there. Fantastic!
SELF EMPLOYED, TWEED
HEADS, AUSTRALIA
Look forward to keeping up with what is happening to our people all over the
world.
DAD / HUBBIE / TALL
PUNGA, GISBORNE, NZ
Thank you for opening my emotional eyes!
ADVISER, WASHINGTON DC,
USA
I have only just stumbled on the website, thru the Washington Embassy site. It
is a great site. I am sure I will spend much more time browsing it in the
months ahead.
STUDENT, CHRISTCHURCH,
NZ
Brilliant guys, have just come back from 3 years overseas and wish I knew
about this site before now. How about letting TNT Magazine and NZ News UK know
about your site ... good way to spread the word.
STUDENT, AARHUS,
DENMARK
For me as a student this is a very interesting website. I work a lot with
branding of places at the moment and to see how you do it in your wonderful
country is a very interesting pinpoint in my studies.
TRUCK DRIVER,
ST LOUIS, USA
Anyone who wants to meet up out on the road drop me a line, cheers Andy
neckchop@hotmail.com
CANADA
Hi: I just found your website and would like to know why I can't get into the
kiwis living in Canada and Australia. Just wondering if I know anyone else in
Canada. Thank you. Anne Chamberlain
TEACHER, CRESTLINE,
CA, USA
I look forward to more information about New Zealand. Thank you for your site.
PUBLIC SERVANT,
WELLINGTON
Fantastic website. Look forward to exploring it more.
SINGAPORE
i like the all blacks of New Zealand. they have all the power and the haka
MAIL SORTER,
AUCKLAND NZ
I like to think your site will help me locate family and friends in Australia
and vice/versa. An excellent idea.
PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT
& MANAGEMENT, SURFERS PARADISE
Proud to be Kiwi. Keep it up.
DIRECTOR, MELBOURNE
Great to join the greater online expat community. On the edge always
DESIGNER, AUCKLAND
Great resource, straight to the point and pure New Zealand
AOTEAROA ARTIST,
SANDWICH, UK
It's awesome to see a little bit of home on your fabulous website. It made me
real homesick!!
LONDON, UK
About to return to the UK after 8 months back in NZ. Will be very interested
to keep an eye on this site now I have found it! Looks great!!
AUCKLAND
Wonderful - 'tall pungas' what a great concept.
STUDENT, WELLINGTON
What an incredible incubator for national pride, I am so glad I found this
site.
MAKE ARTIST &
TEACHERS AIDE, CHRISTCHURCH
Keep up the good work!!
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