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Michael, Designer, Christchurch, New Zealand
 
Here is something for the kiwi newsmakers section - ‘Swarovski Mouse' designed by Jeremy Doherty, Simon Doherty and Dareen Doherty, from New Zealand have won an international Designboom and Swarovski competition called 'Crystal Vision.' http://www.designboom.com/contest/view.php?contest_pk=22&
item_pk=20976&p=1
 
Wed Sep 3 16:56:24 2008

Debbie, Bradford, Great Britain 
I am looking for Tracey Louise Smith - D.O.B 8/10/1970 and Anthony Smith who left the UK in the early 1970's to live in New Zealand with their Mum. They are my half sister and half brother, their Dad is Stephen Michael Smith. I would love to hear from them. About 20 years ago they lived at Lillington Road, Remuera, Auckland. If you read this please get in touch. contact@nzedge.com 
Sat Aug 23 4:42:02 2008

Sunessa, Homemaker, Independence, Unites States of America 
I enjoy reading NZEdge! Keep up the good work! 
Fri Aug 22 7:30:15 2008

Thomas, Duvall, Washington, USA 
Thank you very much for your fine piece on Joseph Sinel. I never had the pleasure of meeting him but he knew both my grandfather and my father. My father (Robert Matthiesen) was a well known art director and designer in the Seattle area and Jo Sinel was considered iconic and much admired in our family as I grew up in the 1950's. Your piece filled in some gaps of information and provided excellent source material. 

Tue, 19 August 2008 8:07 a.m.

Ian and Marie Lucus, busdrivers, Sydney, Australia 
Always interested in what is happening with fellow Kiwis at home as well as abroad. 
Sun Aug 10 19:08:35 2008

Mike, Los Angeles, USA 
My Dad was on the 1957 trip to the Antarctic with Dr Fuchs and Sir Edmund Hillary, as was the father of a classmate of mine. He had a super 8 movie of the expedition, which I converted to VHS years ago, and recently to DVD which I have now uploaded. If you are interested, you can search on "Sir Edmund Hillary Antarctic 1957" on Google Video or Youtube and you will find it. If you want information on the trip my Dad is a walking encyclopedia and he would probably love to talk to you if you are interested contact@nzedge.com. I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Fuchs in 1987 and have a cool picture of him and his penguin hedge in Cambridge! 
Tue Jul 29 17:13:56 2008

Craig, Sales manager, Aschaffenburg, Germany
Hi, Greetings from Germany. It would be great to hear from any Kiwis who know me! Hope you are well.
Wed Jul 23 21:50:50 2008

Jon, Director of sales and marketing, Auckland, New Zealand 
Terrace Downs was taken over late last year by a couple of Kiwis that have spent the last 20 years in Japan. Tim and Jonny. Tim is still in Japan; Jonny came home last year with his family to set up back here in NZ and to run Terrace Downs as the hands on CEO. We plan on making Terrace Downs the ultimate destination resort - besides the championship golf course, we have added a jet boat operation, horse safaris, Blokarting, and a few other activities and we are only just getting started. www.terracedowns.co.nz.
Mon Jul 21 6:56:45 2008

Bridgid
I thought you might like to highlight the work of a London based kiwi jewellery designer Jessica McCormack (http://www.jessicamccormack.com/). She recently opened a studio in Clerkenwell, central London and is featured in the August Vanity Fair's Plus Jewellery magazine.
Sun Jul 20 21:54:43 2008

Mark, Melbourne, Australia
I am watching New Zealand with interest. I was brought up in Cannons Creek, but I find New Zealand a scary place. The word that comes to mind is 'respect'. Cannons Creek was a tough neighborhood but, there was respect. In my mind true leadership from the Prime Minister down will see respect return. The road will be long, it will be full of pain, but it will happen. I don't know John Key; however he seems to be a person who will strive to take the people with him on the right path.
Sun Jul 20 21:54:43 2008

Shelley, Structures Maintainer, Greymouth, New Zealand 
Hi, I am looking for a long lost mate, His name is Dennis Redmond. The last I heard he was living in Australia. Can anybody help me find him? contact@nzedge.com.
Mon Jul 14 6:54:26 2008

Tigilau Saili, London, Great Britain 
I am a Kiwi on a Highly Skilled Migrant Visa who has recently arrived in London. I am looking for environmental consulting and/or management consulting work in a leading corporate, consultancy, or organisation in London. I am open to entry-level roles and commuting up to an hour plus from London. Does anyone have any Kiwi or Kiwi-friendly business contacts or recruiters in London who I can be put in contact with? contact@nzedge.com.
Fri Jul 4 21:17:04 2008

Sue, Apiarist/Farmer/Author/Artist/Administrator, Sligo, Ireland
I love the photo at the bottom of the features page. I am an artist, and find the picture fascinating - the way the Moko takes the shape and expression in the face.
Wed Jun 4 9:31:40 2008

Robert, Student, Frostburg University, Oakland, USA 
My friends and I are about to embark on a journey through a television series called 'Roadtrip Nation' this coming August. The goal of this series is for college students like me all over the world to discover what it means to be successful in life by exploring and interviewing people who are actually excited about and love what they do. We are traveling to New Zealand to film the documentary and would love any help in finding interesting people to interview. The documentary is extremely informal, just a couple students on a roadtrip trying to chat with as many people as we can. It doesn't matter what the occupation, we are only looking to find people who have passion for what they do. If anyone in New Zealand who would be willing to sit down and share their life experience, we would LOVE the help contact@nzedge.com.
Wed May 21 2:52:17 2008

Lynette, Housewife, Westport, New Zealand 
I am looking for my son. Born 24/08/1979. Nicholas Hart. Albany, Australia. contact@nzedge.com
Sat May 10 22:48:29 2008

Roger, Mechaincal Supervisor for EROC, Adelaide 
An outstanding site. After 6 years in China, 6 years in Singapore and 1 year in Indonesia, the Kiwi blood only runs stronger. I am now in Australia. I have realised that the only word that Australians can't seem to handle is "Kiwi." Keep up the good work and grow this site.
Sat May 10 0:09:45 2008

Lynn, Fitness Instructor, Nelson 
My husband and I read about your website in the Sunday Service. We are really impressed with what you are doing - promoting New Zealand. My husband has an iconic seagull comic strip (called Gully) that is based on the language of New Zealanders and their philosophies and is set on a New Zealand coast.
Thur May 1 12:44:02 2008

Lisa, Development Manager 
As a new subscriber, my first NZEdge message (#97) arrived today. WOW! Already I have on sent several key stories of interest to people in the business and NFP sectors. What an inspiring read - thanks for making my workday and fuelling my soul, I remember how I just LOVE being a Kiwi. 
Wed Apr 16 11:10 2008

Chris, TV Senior Promo Producer, Sydney 
I Love Home. Love it. Love it. 
Sun Apr 13 22:23:02 2008

Peta, Financial Consultant/Owner and Designer of Koru Designz, New York 
I currently live in New York. I am starting up a company that will be NZ Inspired Jewelry and Clothing. Eventually I would like to sell other NZ artists' work here. I believe NZ has some amazing talent that needs to be seen all over the world. 
Thu Apr 3 13:46:02 2008

Sharon, School teacher, St. Petersburg, Florida 
Hello down there! Do you happen to have an address where I can write the wonderful Dame Kiri Te Kanawa? Does she live in New Zealand when not on tour? I took my daughter to hear her sing in Tampa, Florida, and she was remarkable! At the request of the theatre management, she graciously signed a poster for her namesake. I would so love to send her a Thank you. Thanks for reading this, even if you do not have an address. Double thanks if you do! contact@nzedge.co.nz 
Wed Apr 2 16:19:41 2008

John, Kiwi Newspaper Editor, Brisbane 
I am starting a Kiwi Newspaper here in SE Queensland. I would like to teach our people about our country's heroes. 
Wed Apr 2 14:07:55 2008

Rob, Traveller, New Zealand
My name is Rob Thomson, and I am the 'Canterbury University Alum' mentioned on the 19th of January this year on this website regarding my Guinness World Record Longest Journey by Skateboard. I just thought I'd drop a line and thank you for posting the details of my journey on NZEdge. You guys are doing a great job on the website, and it has come a long way since I first discovered it three years ago when I was still working in Japan.
Tue Apr 1 3:47:53 2008

Richard, Retired, Picton, Ontario
Thank you for posting this wonderful description of "The Great Morton". In 1953, in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, Dr Morton hypnotized my sister and presented her as "The Sleeping Beauty", in a demonstration of his many talents, which he dazzled his audience with that evening. There are not many people today, that could be cut from such humble cloth, and go on to "pick himself up by the boot-straps", and give so much of himself, to so many people. He was truly a man of the people.

Sun Mar 30 7:53:31 2008

Stephen, Teacher, Auckland
I have visited your site on a number of occasions (usually in my capacity as a teacher, but not always). It is a great site with much positive and interesting material. I was intrigued to see that the only Adventurer you have is Sir Edmund Hillary. Could I make a plea for you to add the name of Frank Worsley to that?

Frank was born in Akaroa, and became a sea captain. His real claim to fame was as the captain of Shackleton's expedition to cross the Antarctic continent. As is well known the expedition met with disaster when their ship, the Endurance was crushed and they were left stranded with no way of rescue. The men set off on the most remarkable journey of survival known to history. After many trials and tribulations the party reached Elephant Island, a lonely uninhabited bit of rock in the Southern Ocean. Here they would die unless further help was found. Shackleton and Worsley set of in the only seawothry craft to sail countless miles across the ocean to South Georgia where there was a whaling station. With three other men they succeeded in doing this through Worsley's extraordinary powers of navigation. On reaching South Georgia they found themselves on the wrong side and had to cross the high range of intervening mountains - or die. Worsley, Shackleton and another man managed this. Eventually all members of the expedition were rescued with NO loss of life. Worsley's contribution to this is second to none (although he would modestly give all the credit to the more famous Shackleton).

Unbelievably the story continues... On reaching civilisation they found the world was in the middle of the Great War. Worsley joined up, working on Q ships and leading convoys into Russia. Peace saw him trading with Iceland and other locations and when WWII started he enlisted again! My paragraphs do not do the man any justice whatsoever but further information can be found in the NZ Geographic magazine, and Worsley's own autobiography - Shackleton's Boat Journey
Sat Mar 29 12:52:48 2008

Vivvy, Mental Health Community Worker, Auckland
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story of our own Nancy Wake (The White Mouse), I read her Autobiography entitled The White Mouse many years ago and was so enthralled by her heroics that I have been so in awe of this remarkable woman ever since. I remenber when I did my mental health training, all of us students were asked a question - it was if we had a chance to have dinner with any one dead of alive who would it be, well even though I am an avid Elvis fan, I answered Nancy Wake.
Wed Mar 26 20:39:32 2008

Jacqueline, USA
I am so impressed with your site and your people. It really says something about the culture that so much wonderful creative energy and accomplishment comes out of a relatively small part of the globe.
Tue Mar 25 9:54:32 2008

Malcolm, Publisher, Nelson
I would like to know of any NZ gift or craft shops operating in other cities and countries besides Kiwifruits NZ Shop in London. I would be grateful if anyone could give me this info or a site to go to. contact@nzedge.com
Sun Mar 23 16:43:39 2008

Greg, Hong Kong
I am trying to find a listing of the people NZ considered as "treasures" during the centenary. Do you have a list or know a URL where I can obtain a list from?
contact@nzedge.com
Sat Mar 22 21:47:47 2008

Diane, Dental Hygienist, Gainesville, Florida
I plan to move to NZ in the near future. I have never been to the South Pacific, and I do not know anyone there to communicate with, which would be nice. I'm going through all the necessary applications to satisfy all the Dental Hygiene requirements. I'm enamored by your culture and beautiful country!
Thu Mar 20 15:35:08 2008

Roger, Freelance Professional Businessperson, Ankara, Turkey
Thank you for this site - it's sane in an insane world!
Sun Mar 9 2:34:56 2008

Isaac, Vancouver/Auckland
Love the website. It shows some of the stuff that I believe everyone in the world should know. Am I being too cheeky? :-) Damn those Wright brothers. Richard Pearse all the way!

Over here in Canada I keep seeing 100% Pure NZ ads. How about suggesting to them that they put a link to your website on their one. It might educate a few people into learning about NZ. Also I hope that this website is right at the top of the list for when people are googling/yahooing/etc about NZ!
Fri Mar 7 11:46:04 2008

Xavier, Unix Systems Engineer, New Zealand
I like where you guys are going with this, so I thought I'd buy a ticket and get on the train ;)
Hope to use this online network/community to bring back fresh stories of kiwi ingenuity and success (and a few laughs) from the UK and Europe in the very near future. Malo le galue.
Tue Mar 4 13:52:42 2008

John, New Zealand
What an informative article! I did a search for Richard Pearse for my son's homework, and didn't need to go anywhere else; everything was here that he needed. Thank you for the article.
Fri Feb 29 17:34:56 2008

Wayne, School Teacher, Wollongong, Australia
Thoroughly enjoy the Edge. It keeps me fully informed and proud to be a kiwi. Keep up the good work.
Fri Feb 29 17:33:33 2008

Mishi, Singer/Song writer/Actress/Public speaker, Edmonton, Alberta
I would like feedback or connections to come to New Zealand and share in our traditional culture and share with you Aboriginal people as well. They have visited us about five years ago and an elder was lost upon his return a short time later. I am internationally recognized and would like the opportunity to visit with you all. contact@nzedge.com
Fri Feb 29 5:30:46 2008

Lawrence, Leadership Development Specialist, Wellington
The development in this site since I last viewed it has been amazing. It is a great resource.
Thu Feb 14 9:54:41 2008

Tim, New Zealand
I am putting together a hero album for my young son and would like to write to Nancy Wake in London to request a signed photograph of herself for this album. Do you happen to have her contact information? contact@nzedge.com
Tue Feb 12 2:14:55 2008

Jessica, Hamilton, New Zealand
You guys are very inspirational. Thank you.
Mon Feb 11 2:02:03 2008

Pat, Whangarei, New Zealand
Is Peter Jackson still making films about hobbits and giant gorillas? I'd like to see the man with his talents come back to his own country and make a film that would knock the arse out of world, a film about journeys, Captain Cook, Hone Heke, the Maori, the Pakeha settlers, the wars, the missionaries, the great chiefs of both sides, the battle at Kororareka and the Waitangi treaty...This is all actual history. I suppose it's too much. Alright to dream that someone someday might make something real out of what's real though? Noho ora mai.. Tena koutou katoa.
Wed Feb 6 19:28:59 2008

Diane, Global Volunteer, New Zealand
Thank you so much for this fascinating and informative website. I so love learning what is happening in New Zealand! I don't watch TV, don't listen to radio, don't read newspapers or magazines, so this is perfect for me.
Mon Feb 4 19:57:25 2008

Cristalyn, Special Education Teacher, Santa Rosa City, Philippines
The site is very nice.
Thu Jan 31 22:06:57 2008

Josephine, Auckland
I had four wishes in my life and one was to meet Sir Edmund Hillary but alas.
Anyway with a very heavy heart I wish to say farewell, God Bless and my only consolation is that I will meet you in the next life. My sympathy to Lady Hillary.
Tue Jan 22 9:17:45 2008

VV, Iceland
Hello and greetings from another part of the globe. I just made a very short video about a remarkable correspondence between the lifetime of Sir Edmund and the height of Mount Everest. (It's a bit like Bobby Fischer dying at the age of 64 and there being 64 squares on the chess board.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdZH6LMH3Rk
Sun Jan 20 15:04:38 2008

Brad, Producer, Queenstown
NZEdge is not only inspirational, it echoes and solidifies the heartfelt love of my adopted land, Aotearoa. Good on ya.
Fri Jan 18 17:49:38 2008

Allan, Struggling Artist, Wellington
I have done my own form of Tribute to Sir Ed. Someone suggested I share it with organizations such as yours. www.alleycatsgarden.com. RIP to our hero.
Fri Jan 18 11:25:16 2008

Simon, Great Britain
I'm a kiwi living in London, and following on from what I hear at home, I have set up a tribute page on facebook.com which I am hoping to get many people commenting on. What I would ultimately like to do is pass this on to the Sir Ed's family to add to the many millions of people who no doubt have already passed on condolences. It is important that we all recognise the scale of impact the man had on not only New Zealanders (not overtly, but I believe he was the pioneer of the kiwi OE!) but others around the world as well. The direct link is: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=8880296999&ref=mf
If you can help with ideas on who to contact to pass this through to Sir Ed's family or any representatives then that would be great. contact@nzedge.com
Sun Jan 13 3:34:06 2008



Roger, Champion Bay, Australia
I have known the Hillary family for over 40 years as my father John O'Keefe was commissioned to sculpture Sir Ed's bust when I was only 6 or 7 years old. The reason for this text is to offer condolences to the Hillary family on their loss of Sir Ed, a fine man and a fine father-figure of a man. I will never ever forget, may God be with you Sir Ed.

Fri Jan 11 17:30:00 2008

Adele, Historian Researcher for early settlers to Carterton, Carterton, New Zealand
Thank you Sir Edmund Hillary, a great man. Very sorry to learn he died today. He achieved so much in his life time, conquering the world's highest mountain.
I enjoy learning all about New Zealanders, what they achieved..

I am down at Clareville, where we have a special lady buried at our cemetery, where I am researching, and hard to believe that she was No. 1 Registered Nurse in the World, Ellen Dougherty. Her anniversary yesterday of her Registration, 106 years ago. I met a gentleman up there on Wednesday he said he could hardly believe what he read on her grave on his last visit to Clareville, I said it was true, she was No.1. UK did not start until 1919, the year Ellen died..
Fri Jan 11 14:54:46 2008

Leile Sims, Solicitor, Palmerston North, New Zealand
Absolutely wonderful to read your heroes section. I have just bought the White Mouse (Nancy Wake) biography from Trademe while sitting here.
Fri Jan 4 10:12:11 2008

Viv, Registered Nurse, Levin, New Zealand
I have just started looking around this website and there is heaps to read. I will pass it on to all I know - thank you.
Thu Dec 27 12:32:39 2007

Wayne, School Teacher, Wollongong, Australia
I have thoroughly enjoyed the editions of the Edge and how they allow me to keep my Kiwi pride.
Tue Dec 25 10:49:15 2007

Eddie, Retired, Shifnal, Great Britain
I have visited NZ and have happy memories. We hope to visit again.
Sun Dec 23 2:25:43 2007

Fitri, University Student, Makassar, Indonesia
I want to go there but I don't have much money! I only want you to know, that I love New Zealand.
Sun Dec 16 21:41:19 2007

David, Great Britain
Our family has recently discovered that we may be related to Sid Millar. We have noticed that you have pictures and comments about him on your website.
Fri Dec 7 10:14:23 2007

Beth, New Zealand
I am hoping that you can assist me! I am trying to locate what is called the Pennywell miniature pig. I am hoping to locate a breeder in your area, as I understand they originated in New Zealand. I would appreciate any info that you have regarding this. contact@nzedge.com
Wed Nov 28 13:33:13 2007

Sandy Lee, Product Support Specialist, USA
I fondly remember 21 years ago when Mr. and Mrs. Bowen opened their home to me for a visit right around this same time of year. Being a California native, I was far from home traveling with a family I was working for as a nanny. I knew Mr. Bowen was a champion sheep shearer, but at the time did not realize what a truly amazing man he was. I came across your wonderful article today and wanted to say thank you.
Thu Nov 22 09:31:22 2007

Peter, Retired Builder, Blue Ridge, Georgia
I am a keen stamp collector of New Zealand and the South Pacific areas. I have been away a long time but the old country is still on my mind.

Thu Nov 15 3:54:20 2007

Sally, Pharmacy, Melbourne
I was born in Tauranga but came over to Australia with my father's work. My great uncle is Joseph Sinel whom I loved dearly. Very, very eccentric fellow but a gem all the same. My son and I march with the Kiwis every Anzac day in Melbourne. He proudly wears my Uncles' and Grandfathers' medals. All our family is from New Zealand - Bay of Plenty, Auckland and the Bay of Islands. Love reading about NZ, very passionate about my roots. I recently got a tattoo of a Koru on my foot when my Dad passed away and get great pleasure in explaining its meaning when asked. Looking forward to a trip back home soon.
Thu Nov 15 0:10:02 2007

Nicholas, Property Finance, Hamilton
Looking to contact Kiwis living in the UAE or Dubai specifically. contact@nzedge.com
Wed Nov 14 19:46:20 2007

Tuesday, Student, Invercargill, New Zealand
Wilbur and Orville Wright were the first to fly a plane and we know this because we are related to them. I may only be 13 but I think our family knows a lot more than most people do. That story about Pearse has been twisted so many times by the media.
Sat Nov 10 16:37:37 2007

Catherine, New Zealand
I have a question I hope some Kiwis can help me with. New Zealand's entrepreneurial spirit is legendary. However, I have tried to find out where this legend comes from and just how this reputation originated, but so far, no cigar. True, there are a good few heroes of the New Zealand culture; your brilliant site tells me so, and I don't dispute it but are New Zealand's achievements really that extraordinary relative to the country's size and population? Maybe they are, maybe they're not. No one can seem to give me an answer. Open to the floor. contact@nzedge.com
Fri Nov 9 14:55:48 2007

Sharon, School Teacher, Tampa, Florida
My only child, a daughter, is named for Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, because I love to hearing Dame Kiri sing. My daughter is adopted as is Dame Te Kanawa as well as her children, so it seemed to be an appropriate name. My Kiri is a delight, and is actually studying classical voice in high school, and singing quite well. She could not have a name that fits her better! I will be taking my daughter and her voice teacher to the Tampa, Florida concert of Dame Te Kanawa.
Tue Nov 6 14:21:15 2007

Dave, Musician, Frankfurt
Any Kiwi expats around London who wish to see a South Auckland resident playing a gig at the Marquee Club on the 25th November - just follow the link below. Should be a fun afternoon. http://www.procolharum.com/007/hes-db-07.htm 
Thu Nov 1 20:54:06 2007



Christina, Primatologist, Los Angeles

I am a primatologist originally from Christchurch now living in LA. I completed my B.Sc (1st class hons) at Canterbury and went on to do my Ph.D. at The University of California, Berkeley where I spent 15 months living in Panama studying the sexual behavior and endocrinology of wild spider monkeys. I now spend every summer in Panama studing wild spider monkeys and conducting archaeological field digs with my husband.
Thu Nov 1 18:44:19 2007

Mary, Mortgage Broker, Sydney 
Very interesting news on your website. 
Sun Oct 28 16:38:56 2007

Bronwen, Humanitarian Worker, Kandahar, Afghanistan
Thank goodness I've found this site. The rest of the world, in particular New Zealand, is still out there. 
Sun Oct 21 2:50:23 2007

Richard, IT, Bristol
Apologies for this rant in advance but when I noticed your entry on Alan MacDiarmid it just made me so angry. All kudos to him, he is a great scientist. Shame on New Zealand for ever letting him go. Almost his entire professional career has been in the USA. All of the patents and intellectual property he has developed are held in the USA. All future revenue and jobs from his work will go to the USA. This is not a triumph for New Zealand - it is an unmitigated failure to hold on to talent and to turn it in to real advantages for Kiwis at home.

As an expat working with the largest IT company in the world I am on an R&D site where Kiwi's are over-represented in the workforce. One day when sitting down chatting with a mate (a world leader in his field) and talking about returning home I was surprised to hear him say "You and I will never go home (except to retire) - New Zealand doesn't want people like us." You know, the more I thought about it, the more I realised it was true.

There is more spent on welfare in NZ each week than is spent on R&D each year. The kind of science and R&D that goes on to produce new industries and new jobs. There are no tax-breaks for R&D or new start-ups and almost zero venture-capital or investors in a country that is so risk-averse that all anyone wants lock up their money in housing instead. (Kiwis are quite happy to jump off a bridge with a rubber-band around their ankles, but god forbid they should invest in a struggling start-up).

Whenever a Kiwi company does do well (like Ghost or 42Below) what happens? They get bought by a richer foreign company. Why aren't there Kiwi companies the size of Nokia (from Finland, with only 6 million people, not much bigger than NZ and where education is free, for all, for life). I desperately want to go home and do the kind of work we do here, but there is no chance of ever being able to build a company or earn a living doing what we do. It breaks my heart every time I have to get on a plane and fly back here.

Stop trumpeting the successes of smart New Zealanders for other countries and start poking the government and the people into changing their ways so that success can stay at home. Otherwise NZ's only future is as the largest retirement village in the world. This claiming of other nation's successes as our own is just embarrassing, stop it. 
Tue Oct 9 23:45:45 2007

Harold, Coach, South Point, Ohio 
I am the track and field (athletics) coach at South Point High School in southern Ohio, USA. For many years I had a list of all the places in the world I wanted to visit. New Zealand was not one of the places. I traveled quite a bit, through Europe, some South America, marking off those places on my list as I went. On a return trip from Australia, I was aboard an Air New Zealand flight and struck up a conversation with a flight attendant. They asked if I like Australia and I told them I did, they then said if I liked it there then I should visit New Zealand, because it was much better. To make a long story short, I did take their advice, and after visiting I threw away my list. I no longer felt the need to visit elsewhere; I had found all I was looking for.

That was in the year 2000, and I have been back every year, sometimes twice a year. During those years I have traveled all over your country and made friends with many Kiwis, including the late Arthur Lydiard, and Peter Snell. The reason I am writing is to ask for some help and advice. My school recently built a new track and field facility and stadium. This May, we will be hosting a large track invitational at the meet. I am calling the meet the Kiwi Classic, and I want to use the meet to highlight New Zealand as a travel destination, its culture, people and businesses. When I return to New Zealand this December, I am purchasing some Maori handicrafts as awards for the winning athletes and teams. We want to feature Kiwi food and music. I am working to bring in some famous Kiwis to help promote the meet. I have Anne Audain confirmed and we are working to bring in Peter Snell. To make all of this happen, we are looking for sponsors, and I am trying to use New Zealand companies who have a connection to the United States. So far Kumfs shoes and Sealord Seafood have joined us. I was writing to see if you might have any suggestions on things we could do at the meet to promote New Zealand and if you know of any New Zealand companies we could contact. contact@nzedge.com 
Tue Oct 9 5:22:37 2007

Tim, Haka instructor and Tee Cotton Bowl Founder, Louisiana 
All Black World Cup Fever has even spread here! 
Sun Oct 7 06:52:15 2007

Brent, Author, Australia 
I am an expatriate NZer living in Australia and was delighted to find your site. 
Fri Oct 5 18:57:04 2007

Muriel, Auckland 
Your web site is great. 
Thu Oct 4 10:47:15 2007

Anna, Events, Tauranga, New Zealand 
I am organising an event called the New Zealand Corporate games in November. We will be having a themed Kiwiana party and require a slideshow of kiwiana images and icons to show. contact@nzedge.com 
Wed Oct 3 13:21:35 2007


 


Don, Canada 

I read in the paper today about your 'battle' for a new flag. Speaking as a Canadian who was around during those challenging days I feel I must comment. We made the right decision and have never looked back. Everyone in the world knows what the Canadian flag looks like! As for losing your link to the Crown and losing your history - we are still in the Commonwealth and our coins and $20's still have the Queen's portrait, but the money now has portraits of our prime ministers. History every time we use the bills! Don't hesitate to make your country unique. The Union Jack on Commonwealth flags is outdated and still reeks of Imperialism. Go NZ Go! 
Wed Oct 3 8:21:39 2007

Kate, Motueka, New Zealand 
A voice from the provinces! I host a website called Motueka News Freestyle. The site is a quirky local take on issues of interest to the Motueka community and expats alike. It is a popular site and aims to capture the unique culture of our small iconic town. I am enjoying looking around your site. 
Mon Oct 1 12:06:10 2007

Mike, Juggler, Tokyo  
I am a professional juggler from Auckland who makes his living by travelling the world and performing at various entertainment venues. Last year I trained in Berlin with the leading juggler from Cirque du Soleil. I am currently performing weekly at the Hilton Tokyo Bay, where I have been since April this year. I have just had my contract extended for another 5 months. I am based in Tokyo, but travel often. This is the 4th Hilton hotel that I have performed at around the world. I intend to perform in Dubai (where I visited 2 years ago) in the near future. Jugglers in NZ are very few compared to other countries. Professional jugglers are even less. 
Wed Sep 26 02:27:43 2007

Paul, Aviation, Melbourne 
As an ex-kiwi, I am trying to convince a good friend that some years ago there was a tragic death off the waterfront pier in Auckland of a well known Rugby league coach who fell and never surfaced between the pylons. I can't find any news item on this and am now starting to wonder if this is true? contact@nzedge.com 
Tue Sep 25 18:16:12 2007

Paul, Professional Speaker, Novato, USA 
I am a kiwi, residing now in the US, and am a friend of Andrew Thomson's parents, David and Carol. I knew Andrew also and am trying to reconnect with his parents. I have read the features on him that you carry on your site, great NZ site by the way - congrats. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Sep 23 16:28:15 2007

Neville, Retired, New Zealand 
My wife and I are travelling around the world at present. I would love to hear more about fellow kiwis. 
Sat Sep 22 22:21:43 2007

Geoff, Retired Aviation Engineer, Auckland 
Your article is the most informed and accurate of all the items I have read. At this moment I have proposed that archived material from my collection, relative to the Pearse story, is deposited at Timaru Museum alongside Gordon Ogilvie's material. This is linked to the new airport museum and Brian Blanchard's Pleasant Point Railway Museum which already hold important relics. 
Fri Sep 21 15:46:56 2007

Linda, Great Britain 
I am trying to get information about Mr Stan Wemyss who was a WW2 Cinematographer with the New Zealand National Film Unit. He was awarded an MBE by the Queen in 1947 for bravery shown while filming on the front line.
I am aware that he is the Grandfather of Russell Crowe, but I am trying to get a history of Stan Wemyss. I am finding it virtually impossible. I feel that he is a person in his own right who deserves recognition not just the Grandfather of Russell Crowe. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Sep 16 9:30:09 2007

Len, Woodend, New Zealand 
I am trying to locate some very old music performed by a group called the Plains Men from Timaru, New Zealand. All the music, as far as I am concerned, was good but there were 3 which I liked: 
1. About the Waitaki River and the Ben more hydro dam 
2. Bullocky Bill from Timaru 
3. The Mackenzie country about the sheep rustler 
This is a very old piece and goes back about 50 years so I might be hoping for a dream. contact@nzedge.com 
Wed Sep 12 10:27:27 2007

Simon, Tyre, Lebanon 
Thanks for the website, it reminds and grounds us. 

Tue Sep 11 9:11:27 2007

Louise, Designer, New Zealand 
We have just stumbled upon your site... Very cool! 
Wed Sep 5 12:12:15 2007


 


Jeffrey, Physician, Lancaster, USA 
Where can I find a NZ black running singlet which is similar or the same as Jack Lovelock is often seen wearing? As an avid runner and late-in-life fan of this amazing man, I would love to obtain one somehow, somewhere. contact@nzedge.com 
Tue Sep 4 11:35:06 2007

Sophie 
I am currently doing a report on Beatrice Tinsley; your article is my main source. Thank you, I think it is made very well. 
Tues Sep 4 04:09:37 2007

Steve, Paramedic/Nurse, Coongulla, Australia 
I am always looking to correspond with others and love travelling.
Mon Sep 3 19:47:41 2007

Sandra, Receptionist, Melbourne 
I was wondering if you could help me with any organisations for ex-pat Kiwis living in Melbourne that get together for socialising. contact@nzedge.com
Mon Aug 27 15:38:51 2007

Lea-Ann, Customer Co-ordinator, Palmerston North, New Zealand 
I have loved this site since I first saw it back in December 2003 and I love everything Aotearoa - New Zealand gives us. I love its "cross-pollination". It makes you feel unique - like a "hybrid" in the truest sense of the word. This site really brings it all together. In fact, I love you guys for bringing it home in so many ways. Arohanui!!! 
Sat Aug 25 17:05:56 2007

Nardia, Sales Rep, Monroeville, USA 
Man I miss meat pies! 
Thu Aug 23 13:55:01 2007

Wayne, School Teacher, Wollongong, Australia 
What a great site. I especially enjoy the Heroes segment. I have never heard of many of these people who have made their mark on the world stage with courage and conviction. It makes one proud to be a Kiwi and I hope all expats (myself included) never forget our roots and what New Zealanders have achieved. 
Thu Aug 23 8:36:48 2007

John, Engineering Manager, Prince Edward Island, Canada 
I'm living on a small island located off the east coast of Canada and would like to comment on Mr. Williams' 10 Strategies. I work as an engineering manager for a company that repairs and overhauls aircraft gas turbine engines. Our customers are located in all parts of the world so you could say we are part of the global market place. Dr David Skilling of the NZI has written a number of reports stating that New Zealand is headed for major economic problems if it doesn't improve its export performance. I have also read this from other sources repeating what Dr. Skilling has said. New Zealand's problem is lack of exporting capability. New Zealanders must find the root cause of this problem and then come up with solutions. We call it the "5 why's" problem solving. Mr. Williams' 10 strategies do not address finding the root cause or solving this problem. The words "world class" and innovative are to the 21st century what hi-tech was to the 20th. Totally meaningless. 
Thu Aug 23 7:45:04 2007

Cary, Business Development Manager, Frankfurt 
Have just moved to Frankfurt on 1 August 2007. Was wondering if you could help me find some other Kiwis living here to talk and socialize with. Are you able to point me in the direction of where I may be able to find some? contact@nzedge.com 
Thu Aug 23 4:09:05 2007

Elisabeth, Executive Director, Auckland, New Zealand 
Thank you for your terrific effort over the years to connect us to the very best of what Aotearoa New Zealand is and can be. 
Tue Aug 21 11:02:46 2007

Glenda, Lab Tech, Bush Mills, Great Britain 
I am at present putting up a permanent memorial to a New Zealand pilot, Wilson Twentyman who died while on a training mission in Northern Ireland. Do you have any details about him and is his name commemorated anywhere in New Zealand? contact@nzedge.com
Tue Aug 21 4:12:47 2007

Anne-Marie, Transportation, USA 
I have some interesting news to offer. My uncle Geoffrey Guenole, and a team known as the Centennial Raiders just completed a 15,000 mile race across Europe, Beijing to Paris, reenacting the "Road Rally Race" of 1907. There is a website where you can read their blog from start to finish. I hope you find it as interesting as I did. I am a history buff anyway but I was so proud of my uncle. Here is the address for the blog: http://www.centennialraiders.org.nz/
Mon Aug 20 12:08:11 2007

Marcus, Northants, UK 
I was looking with interest at the Jean Batten reference on your website. My father was a pilot and, in 1979, was with British Aerospace at a small air show at Cranfield, England. That year Jean Batten's book "Alone in the sky" was published. My father was demonstrating a HS 125.700 executive jet at the show and when British Aerospace heard that Jean Batten was at the show, they offered her a flight in the cockpit with my father, which she accepted. Afterwards she gave my father a copy of her new book with the following written inside "To Captain Trow, best wishes and many thanks for the flight in the HS.125.700, Jean Batten, Cranfield, Sept 79". My father recently gave me the book. I am yet to read it but I wondered if there was any Museum in New Zealand that might be interested in, perhaps, borrowing it. I appreciate that there may be little interest in her all these years later, but it seems to me that this is a precious and unique copy of the book. Any feedback would be appreciated, especially from any of her relatives. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Aug 19 10:14:35 2007

John, Semi-retired and internet radio DJ, Australia
I am trying to get a list of Tex Morton's songs one in particular "One Golden Curl". contact@nzedge.com 
Wed Aug 15 23:38:41 2007

Kiri, Casino Marketing, Tinian Island, Northern Mariana Islands 
I've been living on a tiny island of Tinian for three years now, previously residing in Melbourne, Australia. One thing I've noticed about life here in the middle of the Pacific: there's no shortage of kiwis who are keen to get out and about! There are around 20 other kiwis living on Tinian - not bad for a population of around 1,500 people!!

Fri Aug 10 13:57:09 2007

Teri, Educational Business, Suwon, Korea 
So nice to see a website like this where information can be shared amongst us! Thanks, great idea! We have an education business in Korea (been dong business here for 7 years) and are looking to expand to Dubai. I have business contacts there, but keen to hear from any Kiwis who might be working there. Always good to hear about another country from "our own" point of view!
contact@nzedge.com 

Sun Aug 5 21:59:32 2007

Glenys, Retired Teacher, New Zealand 
Sir Sydney Smith is a member of our family. He was my grandfather's brother (Horace Herbert Smith). It is an excellent article. 

Thu Aug 2 23:16:58 2007

John, Wellington 
I was talking with some friends about the role which New Zealanders have played in the past in leading the world and overcoming barriers. One mentioned your web site - which is fantastic! I note that you have not yet listed Archibald McIndoe - whom I consider was another astounding NZer who embodied this leadership and special characteristic. Nice work. 

Tue Jul 31 16:58:59 2007

Fiona, Geraldine 
Just a comment that according to Peg Hamilton's book he [Bill Hamilton] actually broke the Australasian speed record on the same day he won the NZ cup (Murawai 1925) and broke it for the second time three years later. 
Mon Jul 30 11:55:36 2007

John, Director, Auckland 
All good. 
Sat Jul 28 11:43:36 2007

Tracey, Fisherwoman, Orsta, Norway 
Nice to know that there's other Kiwi's out there doing it ;) 
Sat Jul 28 1:49:40 2007

Maxine, Registered Nurse, Opotiki 
I will be travelling to Inverness (Scotland) in 2 months time. I would like to connect with Kiwis there prior to leaving if I can. I will be in that area for approx 6 months. The last time I travelled was at the end of the 80's when I did my OE. I came home via East Africa, the most amazing travelling I ever did. I would appreciate some communication to find out a bit more about the Inverness area. contact@nzedge.com 
Tue Jul 24 22:49:52 2007

New Zealand 

New Zealand has no space program. No launch vehicles. Amateurs are doing a better job. Wonder if Pickering called himself a Kiwi or not. 
Fri Jul 20 15:52:24 2007

Olwen, Fashion/Costume Designer, Las Vegas 
I LOVE this website!!! 
Fri Jul 20 11:39:31 2007

Sally, Sales Assistant, Melbourne 
I am researching my family, and Jo [Joseph Sinel] is my great uncle who I knew well. Oh what a colourful character he was and he would have a laugh at what has been written. So true all of it. I remember his caravan well when he visited us in NZ. Our family relocated to Australia in 1970 but never lost touch. Thank you for your article and I now know where my children get their visual art skills from, one of which excels in the area of design. Glad to see talent has resurfaced. He would be proud. Thanks again for a most enjoyable read. 
Wed Jul 18 23:56:28 2007

Govind, Engineering Consultant, Bangalore 
I was browsing your website and became interested mainly because when Sir Edmund Hillary came to India and visited Calcutta. I was an apprentice at Gresham & Craven and they were manufacturing aluminum fabricated houses. Sir Hillary had come to Gresham & Craven to have a look at the portable houses designed by our director Mr Longly OBE. I was also present at the meeting and took an autograph of Mr Hillary and my father Mr Shamanna (Director) took some photographs with Mr Hillary and also with his wife. 
Wed Jul 18 14:18:34 2007


 


Sandra, Journalist, Ireland 
I'm an Irish journalist just finishing off writing a book entitled To the Limits of Endurance. It's the true story of a 16 year old Irish boy, Johnny Harte, who ran away from home and joined the British Army in search of adventure. He found it in Palestine & Malta pre-WW2 and later was in the Siege of Malta in WW2. He joined the fledgling SAS/SBS and one of his instructors was a New Zealander, Stud Stellin, who was on Manoel Island in Malta. They went on covert undercover missions into enemy territory, dropped off by submarine and rowing in aboard folboats - small kayaks. Johnny was on the Greek Island of Leros when he was finally captured by the Germans, forced marched to Athens and put aboard a cattle train with little food or water for fourteen days and night, as it travelled across Europe, in sub-zero temperatures. Many died on that journey. Eventually he arrived at a POW camp near Belsen in Germany, where he endured harrowing experiences until his release at the end of WW2. While this is a story of hardship and endurance, it is also a tale of the scams, and schemes he got up to along the way and there are numerous funny stories of his experiences - such as his 'seduction' by a lady of the night aged 17.

The book is due out in September and I am anxious to try and contact anyone who remembers Stud Stellin, as efforts to track him or his relations in Ireland and the UK have failed. I'm not sure if he survived the war, returned to NZ or what. Any help would be appreciated. Johnny - or Jack as he became known - went on to become a Senator in the Irish Government, where he served for 22 years. He's 86, hail and hearty and looking forward to meeting up with old comrades, family and friends at the launh in the Irish Dail - our house of parliament. It will be an historic occasion as never before have the Irish Parliament allowed a book to be launched there. It would be wonderful to have some NZ input to this occasion. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Jul 15 4:31:56 2007

David, New Zealand 
I need to contact a relation last known address Cambridge, South Island, New Zealand. His last known occupation was painter and decorator. His name is Tommy Reading and he used to live in Cheltenham, UK. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Jul 15 2:28:01 2007

Christchurch 
Kiwi doc 'Sand Dancer' by NZ director Valerie Reid received an honourable mention at Tribeca Film Fest in NYC and was picked 'best five shorts' to screen at the top of the Rockefeller Centre. Sand Dancer screens at the Sacramento Film and Music Festival in August. 
Sat Jul 14 12:55:29 2007

Russel, London 
Hi, "The Church" has got together with "Renaissance Rooms" in Vauxhall and is putting together the greatest place in London to watch the Rugby World Cup. The Church is going to show all the big games as well as provide plenty of music, beer and snacks from your country of origin. Every person will get a free souvenir program and the chance to win some great prizes. Check out www.thechurch.co.uk
Wed Jul 4 5:34:48 2007

Ra'Bia, Writer/Cosmetologist, Seattle 
I have done some internet research recently for my boyfriend who is considering marriage. We both feel a deep respect and interest in the Maori culture and would like our wedding to have a strong Maori theme (i.e. blessed jade stone, the Haka or other appropriate performances, tattooing family legacy or personal history, etc.). However, we live in Seattle, and do not have the income required to go to New Zealand. He has mentioned to me that there is a notable Maori population in parts of Utah, where he also grew up. If possible, I would greatly appreciate some leads as to how we may contact any civic and tribal communities in either Seattle or Utah to aide in our search. contact@nzedge.com
 
Sat Jul 7 10:28:21 2007

Faith 
It is so nice to be able to keep up with our country and people, as being away sometimes you have no choice. After many years I still get home sick. Been to a lot of places and have never seen anything that comes close to New Zealand. Hope to make our way back home within the next two years. I have e-mailed your website to several Kiwis. Thank you for taking the time to keep us informed. You are the best. 
Sat Jul 02 05:27:53 2007

Andrew, Marketer, Wellington 
Kia ora. I have been watching the audio tour space now for well over a year and it's great to see how this medium has taken off. Hardly surprising when people love their MP3 players sometimes more than they love their partner. As people who come to New Zealand are often in search of information the idea of a download audio tour for New Zealand was logical.

It's been a labor of love getting a website up but the interest from people in NZ and elsewhere vindicates that people want to use this medium. So if you are feeling a little homesick and want to hear some kiwi voices, want to recall some Maori legends or want to let others in on the secrets of your home town, may I recommend www.guide2newzealand.co.nz for a download (including a free Auckland track), or info on buying the CD. 
Fri Jun 29 16:27:53 2007

Martyn, Melbourne 
I am a kiwi living in Melbourne. Since leaving NZ, I have never been so proud of being a kiwi. It's funny the old saying of "you don't know what you've got until it's gone".

I wanted to share this with my fellow kiwis; I have come across a company called ACN which is a telecommunications company which is providing free calls to NZ for customers on their service. Since joining I have saved up to $70 on my bill, which is a lot over a whole year. I really see this as a way of keeping kiwi connected. If there are any people interested in finding out more information they can email me through contact@nzedge.com
Wed Jun 27 18:50:28 2007

Joy, Rheinfelden, Germany 
Ever recalled how difficult it can be to leave NZ in pursuit of larger dreams and goals? In the last few months I have followed the trials and tribulations of two young men who are trying to obtain their goal of being New Zealand's Cycle Couriers representatives at the 15th Annual Cycle Messenger World Championship, to be held in Dublin this year on the 3rd to 7th of August. Around 800 cycle couriers (messenger boys) from around the globe are competing. Australia has managed to enroll 3 entrants; will New Zealand be represented there? Auckland has two cycle couriers trying desperately to raise funds in order to attend. So far they have booked and paid for their own fares to Dublin (around NZ $2,500 each)...they intend going despite having: no sponsorship or funds to provide for their basic requirements, food, accommodation, cycle carriers; no earnings for the period they are away; mounting debts due to tickets being purchased; the normal costs associated with young men in flatting situations; rent while absent. 

Despite these hardships they are determined NZ should be represented. Cycle Couriers provide a much needed service to grid locked city businesses...they are considered an annoying but necessary part of central city life. Couriers themselves are a 'special breed' of people who are not afraid to live on the edge, take risks and rely on their own physical ability to earn their bread and butter…there is little jam on the meager commissions given in return for putting their lives at risk daily, and they are generally despised by motorists and pedestrians alike and tolerated as an evil necessity in grid locked city traffic; why do they do it? 

Like all professional sports people it is the adrenaline obtained through their performance which keeps them hooked and eager to improve their personal bests. They derive satisfaction from providing a quick efficient service to inner city businesses. While working the central city region 5 to 6 days per week the two couriers mentioned have beaten a track to all possible sponsors around their city and have failed to attract any real sponsorship...so should they stay home? No way - they say they will go even if they can't afford it.
Tue Jun 19 0:56:40 2007

Derrek, Project Manager, Guayaquil, Ecuador 
For the next year and half I am living in Ecuador setting up a branch of the Company that I work for here in Guayaquil. 
Wed Jun 13 9:21:22 2007

Kiwi, France 
I am a kiwi living in France and just spent an enjoyable hour reading your site. It is fantastic. Thank you! I was visiting your site because I am about to deliver a presentation to a global audience and am telling them about me, as a kiwi. I wanted to show off about NZ and was thinking sports, as we do, but started looking for other ideas. How clever are we in NZ? From your site I get the feeling we must have the highest proportion of people who have been great contributors to the world per capital. Made me very proud and made me cry. I knew John Britten he was such an amazing man and your write up on him very much captures the spirit of the man and how he lived his life. Just great. I am telling the audience about another clever kiwi invention (it is not mine I just worked with it in NZ), so was looking for great things that have come out of NZ and I discovered your wonderful site. 
Sun Jun 3 10:20:37 2007

Gavin, Contractor, Brisbane 
NZ is still one of the low key relaxing places left globally. Thank goodness we are relatively isolated. 
Thu May 31 8:04:46 2007

Phil, Flight Lieutenant, Fording Bridge, Hampshire 
I am trying to trace the surviving next of kin of Sir Keith Park to inform him/her that my Air Cadet unit is naming a new IT/Computer Flight Suite in Sir Keith's honor which will serve up to 20 Air Cadets aged 13-20 as they learn about aviation from computer simulation. I believe that Sir Keith is one of the unsung heroes of the Royal Air Force and we are proud to be honoring his memory in this way. My father also served at 11 Group - RAF Uxbridge during WWII. Any assistance would be much appreciated. contact@nzedge.com 
Wed May 30 5:04:24 2007

Trevor, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex 
Many thanks for such a well written article on Nancy Wake. Our family will never forget her outstanding courage and the great service she did during the war for all freedom loving peoples. We salute her and thank her most sincerely. 
Sat May 26 05:11:00 2007

Bethany, Melbourne 
Hey guys I just moved to Melbourne from Wellington two months ago, and I'm missing home like crazy! It's so hard to get news about NZ over here, so you guys are great! 
Tue May 22 11:26:32 2007

Brechon, Exercise Scientist/Personal Trainer, Dunedin 
Heya! What a fabulous site and a wonderful way for kiwis everywhere to create a network. I'm just coming to the end of my Uni degree in exercise science and found this site while looking for New Zealanders living in Dubai. I am currently on the lookout for Jobs in Dubai in the fitness and sport and recreation industries. Have always wanted to live and work in Dubai for a couple of years and would seriously appreciate any news, info, contacts, or advice anyone may have for me. Cheers Dudes!! contact@nzedge.com 
Fri May 18 16:43:25 2007

Garry, Accountant/Company Secretary, Tustin, California 
Glad to get on board with fellow Kiwis. 
Sun May 13 13:18:37 2007

Cathy, Senior Research Professor 
Response for Kim, Researcher (24 April) on Latest Edge Mail: You say your research is about NZ and what is unique about it in the modern world, and refer to what we are supposedly known for - natural life, sheep, bungy jumping and rugby, and wonder whether innovations in film, fashion, technology etc are creating a new image for NZ globally. 

I would suggest you are taking a limited perspective on what defines a New Zealander and New Zealand globally in two senses. First, I am a New Zealander who lives and works in the US, and here where anything is known about New Zealanders at all its very vague and American football means that most Americans don't even know what rugby is, don't know that bungy jumping is a New Zealand export, don't even know where New Zealand is geographically located; may have seen Lord of the Rings and some reference to it being filmed in NZ. An aging and decreasing Second World War generation remembers New Zealand fondly as the staging point of the Southern hemisphere for island hoping operations through to Japan. 

So the things you note that we are known for, it's not necessarily that we are known everywhere for these things. 

Second, I would suggest that New Zealanders are more known for a set of qualities than for a set of things (sheep, bungy jumping rugby). Many of these results reflect the qualities. I would suggest that New Zealanders are viewed as the "little country that doesn't know it" - how do we win at rugby - not because we have the biggest, brawniest, muscle-bound two-hundred-fifity-pound giants on the field, but because our rugby players and coaches are fast, fleet, able to think of their feet, innovate continuously, so that every time our tactics are perfected by another team, we don't those tactics and move to something new that no-one has thought of. 

Whether it is film, fashion, technology, rugby, bungy jumping there is a constant theme of novelness, innovation, of being small enough not to be bound by the inertia of bigger, larger, organizations and countries. 

And yet, this is a country with nearly a sixth of its population not living in New Zealand. How much of New Zealand's image in the world is influenced by these Kiwis, or the Kiwis who work and live at home? If you ask a lot of ex-pats why they left, its because they felt their creativity, innovation, get-up-and-go, can-do, want-to-make-things-happen, stop-standing-in-my-way passion was frustrated, damped-down, locked into mediocre-levelling, chop-the-tall-poppy, can't-do-anything-but-the -status-quo, type individuals who hold onto many leadership positions and are allowed to do so. 

Clearly, my own prejudices creep in here, but just some observations and opinions for you. 
Fri May 11 23:31:00 2007

Adrienne, Language Teacher/Writer, Morocco 
While I will always be immensely proud of being a New Zealander, I have found "mon paradis" here in Morocco. I adore the robustness, the colour, the adventure, the people, the spontaneity of the moment in this amazing country, Morocco. And talk about "edge", Maroc is on the cusp of enormous change right now. The economy has been kick-started by a building frenzy, Europe has suddenly decided we are only a 15 km boat ride away, we have cheap labour and plenty of it. Unlike European countries, the mean age of population is 19 years. Congratulations on this new venture. It looks incredible and I'm loving it. Thank you. 
Fri May 11 21:08:22 2007

Richard, Film Editor, Masterton 
So, here I am, a stranger in a strange land, reconnecting. My turf is the East Coast of the North Island, Palliser to East Cape, filming, interviewing, photographing, reconnecting to Maori, and reconnecting to myself. Powerful forces are at work in New Zealand and if not careful Pakeha will be left behind. I see great things happening with the traditional owners, I sort of envy their connection to the Spirit that is Mama and Papa. I have a similar but different connection that I found in the American West. There are great similarities; great people pulled down and now lifting themselves up. I would love to see Aotearoa New Zealand become some sort of republic, letting go of "Mother" England, we have fed from that nipple far too long. The Maori King needs to be King of all Aotearoa New Zealand, all New Zealanders. Until that time there will be continued separation, division, them and us. We are all one people united. The indigenous language needs to be taught alongside English. We need a totally new system of justice. We need a constitution, desperately. We need to be honest, prepared for and embrace change. It is the one truly guaranteed thing in life. Unity. 
Fri May 11 20:28:47 2007


 


Anna, Actress/Producer, USA 
Kia Ora. I have only now learned of Don Selwyn's passing. I wish to convey my sincere condolences to his whanau, his staff at He Taonga Films Ltd and to all that came to know Don. I hope that those projects he believed in breathe and give life. Having been but one of many who had occasion to work closely with him, as recently as two-three years ago, I am truly sorry to learn of his passing. His soul has passed on. Kia kaha. 
Fri May 11 18:07:00 2007

Peter, Retired, Wellington 
I would love to contact ex-kiwi Patrick Winston Lindsay or any member of his family. Originally from Palmerston, he took off to North America in the '60's, I met up with him in Canada in '63 and have lost touch since. 
Thu May 10 22:14:12 2007

Sarah, Phd Candidate, Chicago
Wow, an international community of kiwis, this rocks! As much as I know I am not going to be going home for a long long time, I miss NZ so much ... the sun glinting off Wellington Harbour, fish and chips snagged on the way home, rugby, fresh bluff oysters, the smell of the Pacific ...
Tue Feb 27 12:25:54 2007

Philip, Business Manager, Singapore
I am a New Zealander who has lived and worked outside the country for the last 20 years. I have 20 years experience in the Oil & Gas industry having worked for Schlumberger for many years.
Tue Feb 27 1:45:58 2007

Ric, Recreation Consultant, Forst Grove, USA
Planning the move back to the place I know is home...
Mon Feb 26 7:36:42 2007

Paula, Child Carer, Hamilton
I am seeking funding for my new poetry project? I want to produce a CD and DVD and slide show of New Zealand scenery, a different scene for each poem set to back ground music. All my poems are original, and I have never had any funding before. I paid for my first poetry book, to be published in Hamilton by myself. Is there someone who can help me launch my project that would be great. contact@nzedge.com
Fri Feb 23 11:09:52 2007

Paul, Designer/Creative, Auckland
Keen to talk to/meet people who are as passionate about New Zealand design as I am. contact@nzedge.com 
Wed Feb 7 15:51:36 2007

Kevin, Self Funded Retiree, Australia
I would like to purchase a video/DVD/CD of Tex Morton that includes the "Gundawindi Grey". contact@nzedge.com 
Tue Feb 6 0:32:05 2007

Warwick, Australia
Looking for my brother, Stephen Smith who left for Australia years ago, please if you see this contact me. contact@nzedge.com 
Sun Feb 4 15:28:17 2007

Grant, Operations Manager, Bangkok
The more countries I live and work in, the more I realize that as a nation we are some of the most adept and adaptable people around. The Lonestar Café t-shirt I wear says it all: Be Staunch - Stand Tall - New Zealand.
Wed Jan 31 18:01:18 2007

Sandra, Salt Lake City
Are there any Kiwi clubs or social organizations in Salt Lake City? I was born in Christchurch then moved to Auckland as a teenager now in US. contact@nzedge.com 
Sat Jan 27 15:49:54 2007

Simon, Director, Auckland
New Zealand is a nation of immigrants for whom living at or near the margin has always been a defining presence. Great job edgies, nzedge.com captures this very well. I agree with absolute confidence that such qualities can be applied very usefully in the international arena. More power to your intentions.

Wed Jan 17 9:46:32 2007

Kathy, Steilacoom, USA
I have a friend who has terminal cancer, with a dream of visiting some relatives in New Zealand which due to health reasons is unattainable. A few of us thought we would bring New Zealand to him for a couple of hours and I am looking for someone who can spend an hour or two with him sharing their knowledge of New Zealand. Hopefully, they could do this for little or no compensation. If you are in the Tacoma, Washington area and might be able to help you can e-mail me. contact@nzedge.com
Wed Jan 17 7:02:34 2007

Rachel, Mum, Christchurch
All these rich people in New Zealand and there are families like mine struggling with ill children. We don't want handouts, we need people to hold our jobs open and pay coming in to make ends meet while away from our families and cities. My daughter is 6 and has had 15 heart operations because of a condition called tetralogy of fallott. Makes me wonder why people buy league teams, while families suffer and loose their independence and rely on welfare. Take care, may your money grow and try to think of the less fortunate.
Tue Jan 16 23:34:01 2007

David, Retired, Paeroa
The beginning of 2007 has been a period of elation for me. I believe that I can take the credit at long last for the recently proven fact that planets cannot form and survive in the 'rough' environment of a collapsing nebula. I have no credentials, am useless at maths, have only stepped into one university and that was its library. 
For more, see http://homepages.xnet.co.nz/~hardy/rough.html
Fri Jan 12 9:06:38 2007

Ric, Outdoor Recreation Consultant, Oregon
Making the big move home in 2007 after nearly 20 years in the USA. Looking for any tips on surviving re-entry with family in tow. contact@nzedge.com
Tue Jan 9 19:50:19 2007

Kelly, Onewhero, Tuakau
I love getting your email updates. Thank you so much for producing such a passionate, professional and invigorating site. I am extremely proud to be a Kiwi and your site continually reminds me of the many reasons I have for being so proud. I am Pakeha and gladly embrace the Maori heritage of this country - that is what makes this country uniquely what it is. Thank you for your efforts to promote many views of New Zealand, Aotearoa, for encouraging understanding, for celebrating our successes and struggles, and for keeping Kiwi's connected. Kia kaha!
Tue Jan 9 10:07:49 2007


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