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"There is so much bullshit being flung around
at the moment - higher taxes, genetic engineering is bad, the All Blacks lost, foreign
investment shouldn't be allowed etc etc. Its about time New Zealand grows up! We are not
going to always win, but I'd rather go down fighting than doing nothing at all. That is
the reason the NZEDGE concept is so refreshing. It cuts through the crap and does the
Merts thumbs up to all the knockers. The NZEDGE is all about being at the bleeding edge
and encouraging and motivating New Zealanders to be the next Ernest Rutherford or Edmond
Hillary or Peter Blake. It so simple yet so brilliant, roll on millennium, NZEDGE is here
to kick butt!"
Project Manager, Wellington, NZ
"Congratulations Kevin on jumping into the leadership
vacuum and inspiring your fellow Kiwis. I've come to the conclusion that, in the age of
the Internet, politicians will lose their leadership positions to private citizens unless
they forget about the risks of not being re-elected and create an inspiring vision that
will make many people uncomfortable. To excel, you need to get out of your comfort zone.
And, I think all New Zealanders would welcome the economic benefits of excellence on a
global stage. You're right about the brightest NZ future being based more on our brains
than on our livestock and plants. As always, we have the ability to choose that future.
I'm involved in helping innovative Kiwis crack the US market from the inside through
alliances, rather than the usual way of trying to do it from the outside, by export from
NZ. I find the level of innovation in NZ to be very high, but we will be a lot more
successful once we realize that major companies need our kind of innovation more and more,
as the pace of business increases, and they can't get products developed fast enough. We
have several NZ clients that are succeeding because they offer world-class design
capabilities at "50c on the dollar". NZ companies should also consider licensing
as a strategy that allows them to internationalize their products before the windows of
opportunity close in major markets. If you're interested in looking at another (probably
better) way for NZers to succeed in the US and other large markets, visit us at http://www.thinkusa.com and get in touch."
Innovation Marketer, Glendale, California, USA
"Kevin, thanks for the passion and positive vibes that
you put out in the cosmos. I have read all of your speeches and totally agree with your
way of thinking! Keep the turbining words in motion. I'm currently teaching Dance and
Drama at an International School in Singapore. One of my major missions is to make these
students a lot more passionate about life and the existence they are creating for
themselves through the choices they make in their day to day movements. I believe that
Drama and Dance is a good motivator for this way of thinking-creating ideas outside of the
spectrum. I'm back to Aotearoa for Xmas and the first thing I'm going to do is dig a hole
in the soil, jump in it and get re-earthed! Positive vibes."
Educator, Singapore
"Great to see your drive and enthusiasm - what
can I do to spread the word in New Plymouth?"
Consultant, New Plymouth, NZ
"See how stupid that idea to paint the three aircraft was now? Hundreds of
thousands of dollars wasted for nothing. Imagine what that could have been done for the
poverty - suffering kids in South Auckland who have the lowest health record in the
civilised world. Divert your focus to beneficial things - not a bunch of idiots fighting
over an oval ball. Then - and only then, will this country come right. By the way, the
same will happen in the America's Cup - Paul Cayard will win that - so don't make the same
mistake. And when it comes to pass - I'll visit you again."
Realist
"Wow! Since I moved from Canada 12 years ago to NZ I have been trying to find a
group of people who share the same vision and thoughts regarding New Zealand. I think the
fantastic thing about this site is it is allowing people to dare to be different, to
aspire to appear strange and to have passion that is motivated by making this country even
better than it already is in a global sense. Some New Zealanders say "But why?".
Others say "Why not!". Congratulations!"
Creator, Innovator, Promoter, Christchurch, NZ
"I was disappointed that the Air New Zealand plane wasn't
plain black with the Silver Fern to add the spark. Could this have to do with the
"chokin" of both The Ferns and The Blacks. Could this have to do with the image
of black, where black is not really a colour. Could deep blue/purple not be the true
representation of this country's quality, this colour adorned with the silver fern, a
representation of the natural resources and beauty of Godzone... As I see it NZ's EDGE is
in the receptivity of this colour (deep blue/purple) and the adjustment of the quality of
life to be brought into resonance with this colour... NZ's has it all and always had it,
this quality represented in the colour of the flag. NOW is the time for New Zealanders to
believe in what they have, show their appreciation for it, and beam it out to the world...
PS:The Celts and the Maori are not very unalike. I believe they are getting together in NZ
to live in union and show the world again the leadership quality of New Zealand and its
people. Which is providing purpose and vision to the world. Let's not choke on this one
please... a Celt with a Waitaha heart."
Teacher/Entrepreneur, Waiheke Island, NZ
"Hello, I get fired up
reading this stuff and don't understand why the majority of Kiwis opt for the status quo.
I was instrumental in the export drive following the oil shock/ECC shock and went on to
lead award winning companies Woolrest International Ltd and Regency Duty Free Stores Ltd.
Now I am semi retired but no less passionate. I will continue to follow your site with
interest. Good luck."
Auckland, NZ
"I love what you're saying and it's inspiring ... especially returning - I admit
reluctantly - to NZ after 2 years in the UK. What's going to happen to this thought in
marketing NZ? We've lost the edge out of the NZ Tourism proposition and all that stems
from it - the edge is much more than nice ads of great scenery and extreme
snowboarders."
Marketing Contractor, Wellington, NZ
"New Zealand is indeed a world leader... Here in Dunedin we have unique research
happening at the University of Otago allied with business and technological innovators
like Fisher and Paykel, Taylormade
Ltd and the Emmy Award winning Natural History New Zealand Ltd putting our wildlife and natural resources on the world map. In
three years of running the International Science Festival we have been constantly amazed
by the levels of achievement, commitment and vision among New Zealand's Science Community
and the visitors who bring our Festival to life each year. See some of the vibrancy and
innovation that New Zealand has to offer at the 2000 International Science Festival, 1-16
July, Dunedin, New Zealand!! See: http://www.scifest.org.nz"
Programme Manager, Dunedin, NZ
"Like many other NZers, I had a surge of pride in our country soon after arriving
in London to begin my OE. That was 4.5 years ago and have varied emotions about heading
home in 1-2 years to begin to, as I've dreamt for years, build my "empire" -
whatever that maybe. At the moment I am very much in my comfort zone but after attending a
speech by yourself, Kevin in London, meeting you briefly as we boarded the flight from
Edinburgh to London after the semi-final, tonight, reading your My Week article in The
Daily Telegraph and reading nzedge.com I have added enthusiasm for what lies ahead. Thank
You."
Systems Accountant, London, England
"For almost three years I've been working on a photographic book of famous and
inspiring New Zealanders. It is amazing to actually meet and photograph these people. So
often they are just ordinary Kiwis who have done extraordinary things. There's something
very valuable I've learnt through spending time with these people... "Go for your
dreams, because nothing is impossible!!" Kevin Roberts, you’re on the edge
buddy!! I begin producing the television series on the book in 2000."
Producer/Director/Photographer, Auckland, NZ
"Dear Kevin, I am a Kiwi who has been living and working in Australia for the past
twenty years and have recently decided to return to NZ to endeavour to use my
international skills back here for the positive benefit of other Kiwis. I am amazed and
saddened at the reaction I am getting such as "why would you come back here to
live?", "New Zealand is a dive" etc. I am also distressed at the number of
old friends who have simply become defeatist in their attitude to life! I am deeply
saddened by the negativity in the country and the inward looking that seems to be
prevalent amongst the population. Like you I believe we need a focus for Kiwis to feel
proud and look outwards; we need a vehicle with which to promote NZ and its uniqueness to
the world. I must apologize but up until recently I had not heard of you or NZEDGE (well
living in OZ you do not hear too much about Kiwis, only when Australia beats them!) I too
have a written concept on promoting NZ to the world - being from a commercial background,
mine is very much focussed on sales and marketing. I have recently begun to contact
investors with the concept as I believe its time has come. I believe that you and I should
join forces as strength in numbers is an integral part of my concept and obviously it is
of yours. I would like to send you my concept "commercial in confidence" to
discuss further as time is of the essence."
Australia
"I read about this site in a magazine interview with you
by North & South and when I got off the plane I rushed home and looked it up. I am
moved by your passion and energy for this country, it oozes through in your pages and your
speeches, I for one am proud to say I am from New Zealand and it moves to me to know there
are people like yourself out there wanting so much for this country. I have lived here
only six years, after leaving the UK and after being here only two weeks I had decided
this was my 'home'. The people, the opportunties, the beauty that abounds here has drawn
me in and kept me here, and I am glad. Thank you for your efforts, vision and persistence
in supporting this country and I look forward to one day having the pleasure of meeting
with you person. Until then, keep up the good work."
Director, Hibiscus Coast, NZ
"Have you ever thought about profiling young New
Zealanders whose achievements could be an inspiration for New Zealand teenagers? Although
sport provides enormous opportunity for young people, there are people who have forged
careers in the most varied of industries from a variety of NZ backgrounds. Sometimes all
the encouragement a young New Zealander needs to go for it is an example to follow. An
on-line NZ mentor site with contributions from young (18-30) New Zealanders living at home
and abroad would be a fantastic asset for people on the verge of making life changing
career decisions."
Project Manager, London, United Kingdom
"Enjoyed reading the
speeches and general informative and positive items in your site. Great stuff, keep it up.
PS All Blacks are still cool."
Self Employed Courier, Rotorua, NZ
"I'm a New Zealander who left on the Big OE 12 years ago and never made it back.
After initially losing touch with New Zealand I have become increasingly connected of
late. I thank the Internet for making this possible and now that a friend in Auckland has
pointed me to your site my connections are only strengthened. I'll visit often."
Financial Controller, Portland, Oregon, USA
"Just had a quick look at the website and I think it's great I will pass the word
to young entrepreneurs. Good to see people focusing on the positives."
Just Completed University, Hamilton, NZ
"Suggestion for the next step: Create a collaboration discussion part of your Web
site, that will allow people to participate and share ideas about different topics:
education, sport, etc. P.S. Kevin's phrase in December's North & South is great:
"Don't be frightened of dreams, ambitions, aspirations. Pursue them."
Lotus Domino Consultant, Auckland, NZ
"I'm all for a positive
attitude, love your speeches. Pity about the tall poppy syndrome. Looking forward to
exploring the site and making a contribution. We really struggle here in the Waikato to
make big things happen - mediocre seems to be acceptable."
Investment Adviser, Hamilton, NZ
"Kia ora Kevin, Just read the article on you in the December issue of North &
South magazine. We've just returned from the MDC Maori Sports Awards which were held in
Auckland last night. I'm still buzzing from the wealth of Maori talent recognised for all
New Zealanders - and the world to see. When I saw your photograph on the cover of North
& South I just had to read it. I was not disappointed. You just ooze confidence,
energy, optimism, enthusiasm and a vision of "anything - and everything - is
possible". I couldn't wait to access your web site as soon as I got home. Fantastic
Kevin. New Zealand needs you."
Business Consultant, Porirua, NZ
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"Just entered your clear, bright and easy to read site as if I entered NZ again after
our 8 months stay during 1994, in Dunedin mainly. Put NZ on the map again, good luck with
all your ideas etc bye, dutch 'groet', maarten."
Researcher, Wageningen, Netherlands"It's
time for us, individually and collectively, to awaken NZ and its people from this ghastly,
sleepy post-colonial hangover we've been wallowing in."
Tour Guide, Tauranga, NZ
"We need more of this! Our future will be created from
the character of our past."
Motivator, Christchurch, NZ
"The New Zealand Edge is a megaphone to the world communicating our values, our
aspirations and who we are. Whether you're in Toronto or Taihape, Birmingham or Blackball,
the shakers and movers of tomorrow are those with the 'edge'!"
Sales Representative, Wellington, NZ
"Congratulations on a superb project, which I truly hope will swell into a massive
momentum. The mainstream media is a frequent conduit for the hand wringers, cry babies and
moochers of our populous. This page and commentaries are refreshing. NZEDGE is a chance to
recharge the abundant talent that dwells here, to shift the mindset of enough people to
make this country achieve the greatness that it is actually capable of but few people have
thought of."
Marketing Manager, Christchurch, NZ
"Sensational initiative, good on you! We NEED to be
raving fans of our own country and it's so damn good why wouldn't we be. I wish you
lashings of success."
Director, Rakaia Gorge, Canterbury, NZ
"The NZEDGE campaign truly
projects the essence of our nation."
Brand Strategist, Wellington, NZ
"The plane looks cool man. Its kind of like a branded flying killer whale. I also
appreciate the weird juxtaposition of Jonah and Robin. You really are ace! Cheers. "
Web Guy
"I am hoping that more sites will offer coverage of the America's Cup races to web
tv viewers around the world."
City Bus Driver, Newark, Delaware, USA
"Keep the positive ideas coming."
Software Developer, Oxford, NZ
"Hi Kevin I have read your comments in several places recently - North &
South, NBR and Education Today and it all seems so much in line with the sorts of things
we are saying and doing that we had to come in to copy down a few of your speeches -
excellent stuff - we're glad to help any way we can."
Educational Publisher, New Plymouth, NZ
"Awesome site."
Sales & Operations Manager, Devonport Auckland, NZ
"I wish the
enthusiasm spread like a disease, we need more support for open minded people with good
ideas."
Student, Wellington, NZ
"Anything more we can do to spread the word on NZ, just ask."
Music Producer, Melbourne, Australia
"Great site, excellent concept - fully supportive - Go For It Kiwi!!"
Business Development Manager, Christchurch, NZ
"I'm just about to shoot back to London for 8 months for work, reading your site
makes me feel guilty for leaving! But rest assured I will be carring the flag high and
with pride!"
Marketing, Wellington, NZ
"I love the way you attack things.I have followed your
entry into NZ, the All Blacks etc. Love to meet you one day. Your mentoring of school kids
excites me. As a sports coach I do the same thing. Thanks Kevin."
Communicator, Rotorua, NZ
"Carpe Diem. Opportunities are seldom
labelled."
CEO, Auckland, NZ
"I really enjoyed the article on Mr Roberts in North & South Magazine.
Anything that will restore our country to the position it once held would be great."
Retired Executive Officer, Tauranga, NZ
"Brilliant idea."
Copywriter, Auckland, NZ
"I'll be back."
Really Useful Resource, Wellington, NZ
"I have just read the December 1999 North & South article "Is Kevin
Roberts God?" and YES Kevin is an ideas saviour! All the best."
Management Consultant, Christchurch, NZ
"The way we choose to see the world, is the way we choose to live in the world.
Arohanui for saying it. If you understand things, things are as they are. If you do not
understand things, things are as they are."
Thinker, Citizen, Student, Teacher, Auckland, NZ
"There's a new generation coming through, I can feel it, I have friends and collegues
who believe in the edge. Our company will lead by example proving The EDGE theory correct.
Kia Kaha indeed."
Company Director, Auckland, NZ "Thought-provoking ideas that we
should all abide to, in order to achieve the metamorphosis of NZ in the eyes of ourselves
and our neighbours both near and far."
Marketing, Wellington, NZ
"Good on ya, lets reverse the pessimism and negative
running down of this fantastic country. We need a positive voice in the media continually
talking this place up and focusing on the many positives that are out there, go for
it."
Student, Hamilton, NZ
"Great stuff - keep it up! I recently
returned from 15 years in the USA, and am equal parts excited about our opportunity, but
concerned about our direction and resolve. We need this kind of forum to keep people aware
of and passionate about the opportunities."
GM, Takapuna, Auckland, NZ
"Great concept, read about it in the North & South magazine...Keep up the good
work."
Company Manager, Christchurch, NZ
"Innovative site - the kick start Kiwis were looking for. This will grow like
wildfire because we are not natural sit back types looking to get rolled. We are just
poorly served by government and civic leaders. It's time we stopped waiting for others to
take the lead/provide the answers - let's all take responsibility in our own small micro
areas of life - the sum of which will be immeasurable with a momentum impossible to
stop."
Director Sales, Auckland, NZ
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