MANAGEMENT AND MEDIA TRAINER, WELS, AUSTRIA
ANYONE OUT THERE SMARTING ABOUT US EXPATS/DIASPORA BEING DENIED A VOTE IN ENZED!! Dear Kiwis, This year it will be 22 years away and 20 years in Austria for me.  If there is anything I seriously miss it's this: NOT BEING ABLE TO VOTE - ANYWHERE!! Been too long away from Enzed and not being able to have double citizenship here. The last time I crossed a voting form was in 1984 - an absentee vote from Canada. The global village with its global communications means we can keep ourselves informed.  (Hands up who goes to the Herald website daily). Denying us the vote is ON THE NOSE big time.  It feels like a week-old railways pie.  It should be stopped. There needs to be a grassroots movement to give us diaspora (all 1 million of us) our democratic rights back.  Means something to us expats living close to where democracy does not exist. Anyone out there shares my view. Let’s hear you. NZEdge, here’s a cause for you.
Yours, David Baigent, Wels, Austria 
baigent@eunet.at (the ONLY kiwi living in this city - and that’s official)

COPYWRITING & PHOTOGRAPHY, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
I was reading the NZ Herald online and found a reference to your web site. When I read people's accounts and memories of New Zealand it put a lump in my throat. Those of you who come from East Auckland will know what I'm talking about when you have been away for a while and that drive home from the airport that seems so long, then you come along Bleakhouse Road in Howick and all of sudden you are at the top of Macleans Road and the whole sweeping view of the peninsula and out over the Hauraki Gulf just unfolds before you. It absolutely takes my breath away and I wonder all over again how I ever could have left home. You truly have to leave a place to appreciate the beauty in it and realise just how much of your identity is formed by its culture and little idiosyncrasies.

RADIO BROADCAST TRAINER, GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA
I know little of NZEDGE but as a Kiwi who left his loved land in the dark days of too many upheavals I have come to miss my homeland and look for any way I can of keeping in touch. In my career in RNZ broadcasting I touched New Zealand's very soul and drew ever closer to my Maori cousins and their culture with whom I grew up in Mangere. I now consider myself a Pakeha on the outside but Maori inside. We have a strong community here in Brisbane and I am working to make it stronger and more relevant in whatever way I can but particularly through radio. New Zealanders need recognition for their efforts overseas and so many give their all for Aotearoa even though they seldom see it.

COMPANY DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND
Returned to NZ after 17 years in Canada. Children beware! the school playground in NZ is a violent place. School sports are very physical and individual sports people have a difficult time finding support. Kiwi children are cruel to those with accents and not at all welcoming unlike their overseas counterparts. Non travelling Kiwis are very insular and not open to new ideas. NZ Newspapers and media are terrible, inaccurate and lack overseas news. The kiwi culture of bad service makes it very easy for an immigrant to succeed in business - there is no competition.

Salaries are appalling therefore returning kiwis should start a business with the ideas they have learned overseas. Child care is difficult and expensive so returning women find it challenging to focus on careers with the lack of support systems despite being encouraged to succeed here. The outdoor life is unsurpassed so we are not leaving again. We travel overseas every year which confirms that this is home. Business is booming and our lifestyle surpasses the one we left behind.  The kids were trying to lose their Canadian accents but as adults find it useful to sound foreign and they no longer want to flee NZ.

SALES, BRISBANE AUSTRALIA
How easy to leave nz. how non-remorseful that no romantic notions of such an advanced country come to mind.  how good it is not to have to digest to my children the illusions of nz. Sadness is not even primary. The gorging non-phallactic mongrel mob entrenching fear in citizens with their subhumane escapades suckin from the weak, utilising legal solicitors in remote places with just a phone call or bank deposit (suck his soul in), the education and racial protocols hidden by a pretending and acknowledging society leave me grateful.  Grateful that other parts of the world have places and education way outstanding for a family life. 

CEO, AUCKLAND
Love the site, love the country, and love what you're doing. I've just taken a CEO role in New Zealand after 20 years playing at the corporate edge in Australia, to transition a fine if somewhat dowdy 83 yr old institution into an incubator of entrepreneurs of grace and freedom. The world will be coming to Aotearoa to learn the arts of leading wisely with grace that we might all live well.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE, WELLINGTON
I frequently recommend NZEdge.com to our staff working in Embassies and High Commissions overseas. It such is an awesome site - congratulations.

TEACHER AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
I wish I had known of this site earlier, while living in London. I will def pass it on to mates still there. Big ups to Ngati Ranana in London, who share a similar philosophy, and is made up of Iwi from all over NZ and the world, talented, motivated, risk-takers. Through groups like that and ideas like yours, the potential and possibilities are unlimited. Good on ya.

RURAL/LIFESTYLE REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT, COROMANDEL PENINSULA
Nothing could be more awe inspiring than the job I have got, after travelling around the globe, I now have the opportunity to share my home, one of the most beautiful places on earth with others, so we may all experience our own Turangawaewae (heart place).

ACTOR/TVC PRODUCER, AUCKLAND
Back home under the Southern Cross after 17 years overseas. I often sought out the night sky and that constellation for an emotional connection with home.

CARER/CLEANER MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Just found the Edge. What a good idea. Always knew there was something good about us all out there on the edge of it all. My family background is one of inventions, aircraft and buildings among other things. New Zealand seems to have spawned a lot of inventive types. There’s a good story to share sometime.

GRAPHICS/DESIGN/PLANNING, MONTCLAIR, NEW JERSEY, USA
In my up-to-now 10 minute initial visit, one of the more interesting sites for exploration I've seen. Do a lot of surfing by the by. Will have more time when not at work. Thanks for being at the edge and grounded at the same time.

DIRECTOR, AUSTIN, USA
Read about this site on line in the NZ Herald. Wonderful site. Love to contribute if possible. Lived in the USA 1981-1997, back to NZ for 7 years raising our boys now back in Austin 2004. I want to keep our boys connected to New Zealand.

EVENTS ASSISTANT, SYDNEY
I first discovered your site when was living in Wellington and found it an inspiration then. Having recently moved to Sydney have found myself craving some NZ inspiration and remembered your site. Look forward to some updates and checking in from time to time.

LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEER SOUTH HEDLAND, AUSTRALIA
The iron ore industry here in Australia's northwest employs many Kiwis and amongst them are many loco drivers who began their driving days on the old NZR, it is a lifestyle here in the Pilbara, hot in the summer, beautiful in the winter, been here off and on for 32 years! Started with the NZR in Palmerston North in 1961!

ARTIST, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
I just got back from 10 fantastic days in Auckland visiting friends and relatives and felt this incredible surge of optimism in the community. Seemed to me New Zealand is very 'up' right now, the local music is great, so many interesting designers and artists that are supported by the community and appreciated for what they bring.....I had a wonderful time and Rangitoto in its stately splendor always makes me feel at home. I log onto this website whenever I feel homesick. Thanks.

CONSULTANT, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Kia ora Brother. Came across your news and website absolutely by chance - (as if there is any such thing as chance in these matters) - more I was guided to you by the Greater. Inspirational stuff - I will continue to visit and keep in touch with the Whanau. HUGE blessings to you and the family - you have never been (nor ever will be) forgotten. Arohanui.

TITANIUM CARD EMBOSSER, BRIGHTON, UNITED KINGDOM
Hi, I live in the UK in Brighton and have been in the UK for the last 9 years but was born and breed in New Plymouth, New Zealand. It is a great site, keep up the good work.

WRITER, ROCHELLE, ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES
Great Site! Thanks for getting it up and running. I miss home. It's funny, sometimes we don't realise what a rich culture NZ has until we leave it behind. It is only now, far from home, that I begin to understand what a strong identity I have as a NZ'er, and how deeply I cling it. Thanks again

RETIRED, PARAPARAUMU, NEW ZEALAND
As a "new" browser of your web-site, I am most impressed - I feel you have a truly open approach to topics I have scanned. Congratulations - we need more approaches like this to cement New Zealand's mark on our world.

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR, CHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM
Have just stumbled across this site and it looks fascinating. Haven't had the chance to read through everything, but at first glance it seems to be challenging, provocative, and very interesting. I look forward to joining the NZEDGE community!

INFORMATION RISK MANAGEMENT, BMU
This looks like an interesting web page, and I fully support the idea of linking all the kiwis off island. It is important to ensure kiwis are both in touch with home, and excelling internationally.

AUSTRALIA
Hi. I wrote to Helen Clark asking her why NZ had never honoured Nancy Wake, your most decorated female war hero and all I got in return was a form letter explaining that your Prime minister gets a lot of mail and it is impossible to answer it all etc. Australia awarded Nancy the Companion of the Order of Australia which is our greatest honour. Of course the French, British and even the Americans have honoured her and recognized her efforts but NZ never has. Even though Nancy has Maori blood they appear to have ignored her so I'm going to send their unconcerned reply to the Sydney Morning Herald and making a story of it.  The great lady is 93 years old and is now quite frail and if she passes on without having received due recognition a great opportunity would have been lost for ever. Surely NZ has a national decoration that is equal to our Order of Australia.  

MARKET DEVELOPMENT (AGRICULTURE), SINGAPORE
Hi NZ Edge. Just read the Heroes section and was very impressed; didn't know we had so many NZ heroes (other than the sporting ones). Looking forward to spending more time reading from your site and receiving the email updates with new stories. Thanks for your work so far in promoting New Zealand and New Zealanders.

MUSIC AND DRAMA TEACHER, MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA
I think that this is an excellent informative site for ex-patriots. I was brought up in New Zealand in Christchurch and Wanganui and appreciate the news of my country of birth

DIRECTOR, AUSTIN TEXAS
Read about this site on line in the NZ Herald. Wonderful site. Love to contribute if possible. Lived in the USA 1981-1997, back to NZ for 7 years raising our boys now back in Austin 2004. I want to keep our boys connected to New Zealand. Thanks Mike Finch

DESIGNER, CHRISTCHURCH
We have this odd fascination with being missed, overlooked or falling off the edge of the world's collective consciousness. But look at this: www.theworld.ae and follow the links to the master plan some one is building a collection of islands in the Dubai Harbour, as exclusive real estate. You can buy the South Island (with Stewart Island thrown in) plot A1, or the North Island plot A13.

ARTIST MACHINIST, ADAMSTOWN MARYLAND
i wear a bold face tattoo, designed by me, just completed a week ago. i find that getting tattooed on the face is a profound and awesome experience. exquisitely painful, too. with exception of reinforced eyebrows, i find that there are almost no tattooed faces in this part of the world. i respect the sacredness of the moko design. i hope to sometime meet another with atrwork on the face. for fifty years i thought about it/dreamed about too/for fifty years i coundn't do it/now it has come true. wygelia@erols.com john shining bear/aho/uhuru

SCHOOL STUDENT, GOODNA, QUEENSLAND AUSTRLIA
hey! im currently doing an assignment on the black power and i decided to do one on them because well i cant really be aginst them b'cos i do actually have family members involved in this typical gang ive new they were in this gang b'cos ive been around them im not aginst them but im aginst what they belive so i tkink your stories are fantastic and cool any way gota go

HORTICULTRALIST, LEVIN
Thanks for a great positive web site! Something lacking in the primetime news. I’m looking into staring my own small business over the next couple of years and having a read of your pages every now and then gives me more wind. Cheers

FILM TECHNICIAN, AUCKLAND
Kia ora All. Great site. I'm wanting to find any Kiwis living in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam or surrounding regions. And if possible to meet and interview for documentary. Hope to hear from anyone soon. Kia ora. Na Gavin McLean wairuaora@xtra.co.nz

SUBCONTRACTOR, SYDNEY
Hi just hooked to the net still feeling my way around, came across your site if it's about nz or new zealanders it's got to be good. Curious, more input later. Les Poa.

PERSONAL ASSISTANT, SYDNEY
I currently live in Sydney Australia, I live in Surrey Hills.  I am a personal assistant with a property company.  I enjoy going out, going to the beach and having dinner with friends.  I have lived in London for 4 1/2yrs and have been here for 6.  I travelled through Canada, France, England, Bali, Ireland, Turkey, Venezuela, Cambodia and Thailand. 

GLASGOW, UNITED KINGDOM
Hi all, been in Glasgow only 15 months and miss home very much. Even though Scotland is a lot like back home and the people are ever so friendly, my heart still yearns for good old New Zealand.

BUFFALO, NEW YORK, USA
I am from the Northeastern portion of the USA and have become aware of New Zealand via Peter Jackson's LOTR Trilogy. I stumbled upon this site doing research for a Power Point project in computer class, through a Google search. I would like to commend the creators of this site, I found their rich illustrations of New Zealand history, very poignant and interesting. I would love to one day visit Wellington and surrounding areas. With my last bit of feedback, I would like to thank New Zealand for one James William Robertson Napier, a young Kiwi actor from such children’s shows as The Tribe (Techno Jay) and Power Rangers Dino Thunder (Red Ranger Conner McKnight). Thanks ever so much and I will definitely be back here again soon.

TEACHER, TAUPO, NEW ZEALAND
I just got back from 2 years in London teaching. I loved the travel, the adventures, motivated and inspirational people, and I learnt more about being a New Zealander and being Maori in those 2 years, than I ever had. Last year I had a real urge to come home. When I thought of New Zealand lots of beautiful images would come to mind, and the idea of returning to the arms of the land and whanau was strong. When I came back it was as I had hoped. It is truly beautiful, from the ancient Pohutukawa on Orere beach, to the cow in the paddock in Waikato. But there was a feeling of unease too. Race relations seemed strained to put it mildly. No one wanted to talk about the foreshore or Maori politics. I felt like I had missed something crucial by being in London, despite our discussions, debates and awareness in the New Zealand community about these issues, it was not the same as experiencing it. As a traveler you tend to want to discuss what you saw and felt. I have found Kiwis to be really bad listeners. They either cannot relate at all, so their face closes and eyes glaze and you know they aren't taking anything in. Or, they connect your experience to something they saw or did, and launch into a big korero about their OE, as if to stop feeling like "I wish I was still there/young/free". At times it has been an isolating feeling returning. I look forward to our little reunions with ex-Londoners. We often talk about how close we became with our friends in London, in such a short time, sometimes closer than we are with old friends from school or family members even. It is such a tight-knit community in London for kiwis, and you miss that feeling of unity and identity back here. Hei aha, it’s good to be home, for we should truly give thanks we are Kiwis. Enough for now!! Kia Ora, Janie.

PUBLISHER, POINT ARENA, USA
Our family of five (myself, my husband, and our three teen and pre-teen sons) is actively planning a move from Northern California to New Zealand in 2005. We are self-employed magazine publishers (world market) so no need to stress on "can we get a job" but am surprised how little NZ (with the exception of much of your excellent site) seems to understand its strengths.

Want crime? Drugs? Gangs? Even our tiny (300 people) enclave in coastal California three hours from the nearest mall now has rules that our kids can't wear certain colors of clothes to school for fear of violence. Want unaffordable housing? Homes in every place in California worth living are massively over-inflated to the point that I believe a serious real estate crash is only a matter of time. And if you think having Helen Clark for PM is rough, try having a complete raving lunatic like G.W. Bush as President.

Yes, NZ tax rates are high on the middle class; but they are no higher than what I pay in California. I find the complaints about the high cost of schooling in NZ ironic. Kids graduate $10,000 in debt and can pay back as a percentage of income? Here, anyone in the middle class can expect to spend $20-30,000 a year *US* and graduate $40,000 in debt or more. I have friends in the 50's who are still paying off college debt, even with *good* jobs and still can't afford to buy a house.

And to the person who complained that NZ media concentrates on the mundane instead of world news, believe me, it will be a genuine relief from the "all war, all the time" that we get here, punctuated by occasional multi-fruited terrorism up-and-downgrades.

Perhaps I'm a pie-in-the-sky Yank, but I can't *wait* to become a Kiwi. NZ to us looks a lot like the land of milk and honey.

COUNCIL WORKER & WAITRESS, MACKAY, AUSTRALIA
Hi, our family wants to move to New Zealand, my husband is home sick, & after 8 years in Australia, is ready to return. I love New Zealand and I am sick of the heat and dust of this country, so I’m ready to go also. However all we have heard is bad reports; wages are low, education is terrible, houses twice the price, food very expensive. Are there any Aussies out there that can tell us how they are getting on in New Zealand???

RAW MATERIAL IMPORT MANAGER, MILWAUKEE, USA
Just found your site connecting from oldfriends.co.nz. Interested to find more about your site and is it possible to make contact with any other New Zealanders living in the USA? Have lived here now for 15 years with my kiwi wife and children very closely marketing and procuring New Zealand beef.

RECRUITMENT CONSULTANT, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM
I am a New Zealander living in London, with four months left until my visa runs out and plan to head home. I am really looking forward to coming home but also aware of the huge adjustment period, which will be hard with most of my friends still in the UK. Being overseas has really broadened my horizons, both personally and professionally after being stuck in a bit of a rut in New Zealand. It's a bit daunting to think about, but look forward to the challenge ahead for a country I am so very proud to be from.

HAMILTON, NEW ZEALAND
Just read the following passage on Kevin Roberts rugby postcard."From Cardiff on Sunday Jimmy and I left a little bedraggled and worse for wear for Heathrow for a three-day stint in Sao Paolo and Rio de Janeiro. Whilst rugby, of course, is very important in neighbouring Argentina (who were flying high after their fourth successive victory over France) no one in Brazil has any interest in the game. They are devotees of soccer." I suspect Kevin didn’t find Sao Paulo's touch of New Zealand. Sao Paulo has South America's only Kiwi style bar with a huge screen for watching rugby games on. Check out www.kiaora.com.br to read a little more about Brazil’s little piece of Aotearoa.

MINERAL CONSULTANT (NON-METALLICS), SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Good to see the NZ Edge site. Interesting to read details of Edmund Hillary, etc. Although I moved to Australia in 1980, I still feel very much a Kiwi at heart and am always pleased to see the All Blacks, etc, doing well on the world stage.

CALGARY, CANADA
Here are several others that you can look at adding to the Heroes list. Sir William Hamilton invented the jet boat engine in the 1950s to get upstream in shallow waters. In 1956, Timaru's Colin Murdoch wanted an easier way to vaccinate his farm animals, so he invented the disposable syringe. Wellington's Robert Dickie introduced the stamp vending machine to the world, and Hamilton's Bill Gallagher invented the electric fence.

STUDENT, SYDNEY
I am doing a school assignment on New Zealand and this website has been good for my project but you should add the traditional foods, dress and stuff like that.

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE, MEXICO
I was born and grew up in Fielding near Palmerston North. My family still lives there and I built a website for my sister who has a hair salon there http://www.thedgehair.com. After I left New Zealand I just seemed to keep going and now I am fortunate enough to live in San Miguel. It is a 14ht centaury village in the mountains 4 hours drive from Mexico City; it is an historical site and so very little has changed for hundreds of years. Here are some photographs http://www.sanmiguelnow.com/church/church.htm. I love your web-site it is really nice, your pictures really got me to reminiscing - thank you so much! Please include me in your mailing list...Robin

PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS, CHRISTCHURCH
Fulltime artists living in the best country in the world...with 18 galleries in NZ and 2 in Australia representing us..this gives us the excuse to travel and tell people about our artwork.. NYC is the next stop...check out www.nakedart.co.nz for NakedArt - sculptures from live models...

LIFE COACH, ZURICH, SWITZERLAND
I am life-coach, and specialize in coaching people to live in the now, but at the same time to reach for the stars. Although I'm based in Switzerland, my coaching practice is global. This means that I'm available for face-to-face coaching in the Zurich, Luzern and Zug areas, but most of my coaching is done over the phone, working with clients in many different parts of the world. Much of my work involves working with expatriate women who are having difficulty coping with the realities of living in a foreign country. My mission: To help people to live full happy lives where ever they are in the world.

INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE, MONARCH BEACH, CALIFORNIA RIVIERA, USA
Born Gore; Lincoln; Lands & Survey, Canterbury; Reid Farmers, Otago; 25yr overseas in rural development & humanitarian relief aid, Asia, Africa, Europe. Now investment rep in California. Wonderful kiwi wife, Pamela - Exec Dir of assisted living community & 2 daughters, Rachel - human resource specialist & Vanessa – teacher

MAC-FIELDS, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Another important man, Jim Richards: Australian sports car champion for 8 or so years, Bathurst winner about 8 times, nick name 'gentleman Jim' on and off the track. He is in his 60's now and is still champion in several classes. Kevin Gormley: Aussie speed way champion in the 60's /70's for a number of years (his first Kiwi speed car has been restored and is in a museum around Auckland I believe). There are a number of very successful motor racing Kiwis with Greg Murphy, Steven Richards in the young up and coming list. They also say that Jim Richards is a master at wining a race in the slowest possible time! He also has a marvelous ability to change types or classes of car and still beat them all each time. Some of the Maori legends may be a very interesting addition such as the tale of why the Kiwi doesn't fly and why the ocean at Cape Reinga "boils" for as far as you can see! And Hone Heke's feats of destruction at Paihia? [cutting down a guarded pommy flag pole!].I think that "cheese spread" was invented at the Waimana cheese factory too. AAAAAHHHHHH the luxuries of food so fresh and diverse found nowhere else!!! Wool; the envy of the entire world. Chinese gooseberries:- the Kiwi version of Eve's apple!! Kauri trees and their gum [carved]. It might just be a rumor, but Kiwis are the best at everything!!

RAF, OXFORDSHIRE, UK
I am planning to leave the RAF and return to NZ in two years time.  Leaving the forces is difficult for most, but I’m going for the double-whammy of returning to NZ as well.  I know it won’t be easy and that I will often question whether I’m doing the right thing. But, if I don’t try it, I shall never know if it was right, shall I?

What have been your motivations/reasons for returning to New Zealand?

Basically I want to return because it is my home and it is where most of my immediate family and friends are (having made a concerted effort over the years to keep in touch and visit them, each and every time I go back on holiday). 

Also, though I will have been away for over 15 years and I was born in the UK (to British parents), I grew up in NZ from the age of seven and that influence has been very strong. It formed my identity.

I have to admit, though, that there have been times when I’ve felt very confused.  In England I am English, but with a Kiwi accent; in NZ I’m a Kiwi with a British accent.  My sister even once told me I sounded like one of the Spice Girls!  Please God, no!!!

And then there are the times when people gleefully ask who I’m gonna be cheering for when a rugby match looms: the Brits or the Kiwis?  Well, in the end I always have to say “Both!” 

The team that plays the best is the one that deserves to win, but surely the one that loses, on the day, deserves some support and encouragement too?!

What are the things that get you going and the things that get you down? Getting me going: Thinking of having that wonderful scenery and weather and food and wine on my doorstep once again!

Getting me down: Thinking of how difficult it might be to find a decent job!  Tho’ I have to say that as long as I can afford to eat and switch on the lights, I don’t really care what I end up doing, because I’ll be home!

Is the song of cicadas, squinting at the sheer blue sky and smell of snapper on the barbie enough? No, it probably isn’t enough, my friends and family are very important too.  But hell, I am sure looking forward to those things too!  Plus don’t forget the sounds of the myhnas too…I really miss them, for some reason.

Have you found your memories of paradise in the South Seas to be more myth than magic? I’ll let you know, but on the times that I have returned (roughly every two years) I would say I have seen both good and bad things. 

I try not to see everything through rose-coloured specs and I advise the same approach to those who rave on about how they’d emigrate to NZ or Aus’ (or wherever, as long as it’s not the UK) at the drop of a hat! 

While I love NZ and it means a lot to me, it isn’t ‘paradise on earth’ and wherever we are on this planet most of us are faced with the same realities.  We have to have a place to live and a job, we still have to pay tax and sort out the MOT and insurance for the car, the house will still need work doing on it and we will still worry about our health and that of our loved ones.  That’s life.

Have you been welcomed back with open arms or have people struggled to understand where you're coming from? Once again, I’ll let you know.  But the times that I’ve been back I’ve been welcomed.  Though I have to say that I’ve had to be the one to make the effort to contact them and go and visit, fitting in with their routine. 

The thing is that people lead busy lives and we can’t expect that, just because we swan back into their lives, they’ll drop everything for us.  Yes, they’ll be happy to see us but, as with all things, sooner or later the novelty is gonna wear off.

As for people struggling to understand where I’m coming from, I’ve always found my friends to be very supportive.  Mind you, I’ve always tried to remain modest and play-down my exploits a little (nobody likes having their nose rubbed in it, do they?).

And I make a point of showing how much I’m interested in their lives and kids, and what they’re achieving, because obviously that is what matters most to them.  And, quite frankly, I am very interested anyway…because it is a different existence from mine, it fascinates me and I admire the fact that they are successful in their careers, and as parents and wives/husbands.

Are you confident or anxious about finding work as interesting or challenging as you have had overseas? Well, I’m the sort of person that can find any new job challenging and/or interesting…at least until I’ve got it sussed…and then maybe my attention wanders.  But then I’ve always been like that and it would be the same wherever I was in the world!  For me it’s not about the work, it’s about the potential lifestyle.

What are the sounds, sights, tastes and moments that move you?

Far too many of them to list and I’ve already read many of the same sentiments, expressed very eloquently, on this site. 

All I will say, though, is that I’m very familiar with the “huge lump in the throat” feeling.  At every commonplace sight, at every vista, at every takeoff and landing, at every hug hello and hug farewell…it hardly ever leaves me and, when I return to the UK, my heart is heavy with the knowledge of what I’ve left behind me…yet again! dee_perdix@yahoo.co.uk

MAILING CENTRE, AUSTRALIA
Kia ora, I’m always interested in anything to do with Aotearoa, Land of the long white cloud. My beautiful home land and what our people are doing at home and abroad.

EDUCATION MANAGER, HASTINGS
Excellent site, thought provoking, good discussion of issues and ideas - nga mihi

TECH, CANBERRA
Hi to my Triple Star, will see you again soon.

COMMUNITY GROUP LEADER CLEARWATER, UNITED STATES
Since moving to the States am missing the sound of Kiwi voices. Great site.

ADVERTISING - CREATIVE SERVICES, UNITED KINGDOM
I'd like to hear more please..... Am curious as am currently trying to emigrate to New Zealand.

NOT SURE - AM LOOKING, CANTON OHIO, UNITED STATES
Great Site. I hope fellow Kiwis in the US have words of wisdom for me.

ANALYST, NEW YORK
All good! Thanks, Dame.

MARKETER, NEW ZEALAND
Positivity coupled with action - inspiring to see. Nice work.

INTERNET CONSULTANT, ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA
A wonderful idea and a fantastic site.

SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES
Great to have found you!

BOOKKEEPER MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
LUVIN IT.

ADVERTISING, KIEV, UKRAINE
Brought here by saatchikevin.com - will stay here as much as possible.

SHOP ATTENDANT, GOLD COAST
From what I’ve seen of this site so far it’s tops, good work guys, keep it up.

RETIRED, COROMANDEL, NEW ZEALAND
Have no comments at the moment, looking for information about new flag proposals and options so far suggested.

DRIVER, SEAFORD AUSTRALIA
Going to check things out. Thanks for the opportunity.

STUDENT-ATHLETE, BEAUMONT, UNITED KINGDOM
Love your site guys, you are marketing NZ exactly how I reckon it should be. I'm a Hamiltonian on an athletic scholarship to Lamar University in Texas.

WRITER, SYDNEY
Great site, congratulations

SINGING TEACHER, MALENY, AUSTRALIA
Just discovered this site thru www.oldfriends.co.nz. Looking forward to belonging to this community!!

CHEF, UNITED STATES
Kiwis are becoming more known as people from New Zealand rather than the "Fruit" in the USA. Love the site.

SCHOOL STUDENT, HAMILTON
I think that Aotearoa is an Ataahua Country to live in...

IT MARKETING AND SALES, DALLAS, TEXAS, USA
How delightful to have a way to "check in". Although I have been gone since 85... I still feel and bleed my Kiwi heritage... I miss New Zealand terribly!

ROAD SWEEPER, HARLOW UK
Hello do you have any photos of Maori tattoos ,this is for my son’s home work?

SALES/MARKETING BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
I look forward to being a part of NZEdge, thank you.

STATE MANAGER – SALES, BRISBANE AUSTRALIA
What a great idea. While we are only a few hours by plane, milliseconds by phone/email from our families, we still miss the day to day contact.

TEACHER, SANDEFJORD NORWAY
Really enjoy fossicking around your site.

ENGLISH TEACHER, POITIERS, FRANCE
I love this site. You give plenty of precious information. Thanks.

YESHIVA STUDENT/SEMINARY, JERUSALEM, ISRAEL
Great photos on the site!! Makes me Homesick. Shalom Chaverim (Peace my Friends).

FINE ART AND VISUAL CULTURE STUDENT, BRISTOL, UK
Thank goodness for this website! Helps me feel less isolated as a Kiwi on the other side of the globe.

WRITER, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Great site, congratulations.

RETIRED, GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA
Love to contact Kiwis and friends.

DERMATOLOGIST, FULBOURN, CAMBRIDGE, UNITED KINGDOM
Fantastic way to communicate with the NZ diaspora. Keep it up.

COMPANY DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND
Fantastic! NZEDGE is a real asset to our country, thanks!

STOREMAN, MELBOURNE
Very impressed.

FASHION RETALIER/MARKETER. HONG KONG
I definitely have a local heart but a global soul. Love it!!! Thank you.

TRUCK DRIVER, REDCLIFFE, AUSTRALIA
Gidday, great site,

SALESMAN, SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA, USA
I think that this is a great site, makes me wonder why I have not returned home.

FASHION RETAILER/MARKETER, HONG KONG
I definitely have a local heart but a global soul. Love it!!! Thank you.

STOREMAN, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Very impressed.

SELF EMPLOYED, PERTH
Look forward to hearing from you shortly.

TEAM LEADER, AUCKLAND
Inspirational Site...Just awesome

STUDENT, BEIJING
I think this is a great place because it shows that New Zealand does have great people and it shows this to the world.

PRODUCT ENGINEER, HUNTERSVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA, USA
Another Proud Kiwi flying the NZ flag overseas - Kia Kaha.

LONDON
Just discovered your site.  Really interesting for a Kiwi of 14 years standing.

SEMI RETIRED, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
Thanks for the opportunity to be on this site, I get a lot of enjoyment from www.oldfriends.co.nz, keep up the good work.

TEAM LEADER CS ONLINE SHOPPING, LONDON
Really well set out website, everything is easy to access.
And it's nice for us to have a bit more kiwi info than the usual websites.....

CUSTOMER SERVICE, SYDNEY
Being able to order NZ food - heaven on earth!!!!

PRODUCT ENGINEER, HUNTERSVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA, USAAnother proud Kiwi flying the NZ flag overseas - Kia Kaha.

PR ADVISER, AUCKLAND
This is a great site that just keeps getting better and better. I used to be registered when I lived in London and now I'm home and settled again it’s great to be part of the NZEDGE whanau again.

SALERNES FRANCE
I've only briefly looked at your site last night but the idea of it looks good. Some of its content is what I've often wondered about, so it's good to see that you have put the site together.

INFORMATION SPECIALIST, BERN SWITZERLAND
A great site! Interesting and stimulating. Your language is often a bit puzzling, though! Have to stop and think what you mean in the razzle-dazzle.  Graham

BURLINGTON, USA
I have only just found 'The Edge' after living in the States for nearly five years… It's great! I am very homesick, haven't been home in nearly five years. Thanks

DERMATOLOGIST, FULBOURN, CAMBRIDGE, UK
Fantastic way to communicate with the NZ diaspora.  Keep it up.

PUBLISHER, SINGAPORE
During the tough times, I always come to nzedge to get that little piece of inspiration from all those great fellow Kiwis all around the world to keep me going. Thank you!

SENIOR MANAGER, INFORMATION RISK MANAGEMENT, BELGUIM
This looks like an interesting web page, and I fully support the idea of linking all the kiwis off island. It is important to ensure kiwis are both in touch with home, and excelling internationally.

BUSINESS DIRECTOR, AUCKLAND
I wish more people raved about this country like you do.  I am a Pom and moved here 12 years ago and I cannot say enough about it.  I love this country and have more loyalty to here than I ever had in the UK.
Thumbs up guys keep it going! Craig

SAFETY EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING, SOUTH BOSTON, VIRGINIA, USA
Great way to connect with Kiwis, I rarely come across expats though I did meet Bruce and Gail Farr recently.