In a very twisted way, this is so true.
Tag Archives | NZ
Driving in NZ – an exercise in frustration
If you live in NZ then none of this is news, however if you come to NZ on holiday and you plan to drive then this is very relevant. Driving in new Zealand is definitely an exercise in frustration. Firstly, the quality of the infrastructure. The main state highways are for all intent two lanes, [...]
Travel madness starts this week
6.00 am this Wednesday morning the next round of travel madness begins. I have to get out of the door to Schiphol and a flight to Paris at 8.00am. I am there on business through until Friday early evening when all being well I will get back home around 9.30pm. Up again next morning at [...]
Happy New Year for 2012
Admittedly this is just a little early, but one of the peculiarities of being in NZ is that you are one of the very first countries in the world to see in the new year and tomorrow I will be in a pressurised aluminium tube for 24 hours flying back to Amsterdam. So for everyone [...]
NZ de-populates at the rate of 1,000 per week.
Just over 1.1% of the NZ population – 50,115 left NZ permanently last year for Australia. Only 14,300 made the reverse trip. The primary motivation is economic with more jobs and higher pay. Over the last 8 years the net migration total is 203,654. Being one of those who voted with his feet I completely [...]
Tales from the Twilight Zone – 2011
Each time I come back to NZ I am shocked by the level of violence in this country. Talking to people there is acknowledgement and seeming acceptance. Alcohol is of course a significant factor, but it is more than that. I have my own personal views about the lack of cultural depth and the inability [...]
Tales from the twilight zone (2)
Yesterday was the official day of mourning for the 29 victims of the Pike River Mining disaster here in NZ. The news coverage on TV noted that after the official ceremonies everyone was off to contemplate the day over a “few quiet jugs”. I had forgotten that beer is purchased and consumed by the ‘jug’ [...]
Amsterdam to Auckland
I had honestly forgotten how hard it is to sit on your arse for 24 hours on an airplane seat. Yesterday I travelled from Amsterdam to Auckland with one 3 hour transit stop in Singapore. Fortunately Singapore Airlines provides the fastest connection, but it means that you sit on your butt for 24 hours. When [...]
