Sorry – I can’t leave it there. Not without giving you an insight into the South Island, gained from that estimable publication The Otago Daily Times. (We were also told of Pig Hunter magazine, but didn’t manage to see a copy). However, two items in the ODT caught my eye, and I’ve got the cuttings to prove it.
One was an example of the greater linguistic freedom of New Zealand. It’s notable that advertising, for instance, is much looser in its approach to language than the UK, which has given me some interesting material for my language classes. One of my favourites was a radio ad overheard in a shop, advertising slimming cakes which have “very little sugar, and bugger all fat”. In the ODT, though, we have the Wanaka Community Board Chairman, their version of the mayor, reacting with justifiable shock to the vandalism of the Earth From The Air Exhibition: “Bugger the anti-smacking bill. I think these people should be caught and publicly flogged… these vermin came along and destroyed some of it. They don’t even have the brains of a louse.” Clearly he should be in the diplomatic service.
My other cherished cutting is accompanied by a live action photo – it’s a shame I don’t have access to a scanner. The headline is: World Records Fly at Possum-Tossing Championship. The magnificently-named Darren Tuna won the event with a throw of 31.1m, beating the previous record by 10cm. Raewyn Waller retained her women’s title with a throw of 24.85m. It all depends on your choice of throwing technique, apparently, combined with your choice of possum: “Some of the throwers may have had a distinct advantage because the possums they chose from the pile have been aerodynamically shaped into a diving position by rigor mortis. The fat ones roll well and some bounce better than others.”
Only in New Zealand, as they say!
And just before we go, probably for the last time, it’s time for the blog birthdays. Happy Birthday Clare, and also to Deborah’s Dad!
Farewell but congratulations on your dedication to achieving as much as possible while in our wonderful country of New Zealand. In such a short time, you have all seen much more than a lot of New Zealanders will see in their lifetime and to think you have also been working! As a teacher of nearly 40 years I am also delighted to see how you have enriched your children’s lives in so many ways – experiences they will never forget. I shall miss your writings and opinions! See you next door July 7 – I shall bring a bottle of NZ wine over to remind you of your travels. Bon Voyage to you all and enjoy tour trip home.
Comment by Joy Fraser — April 7, 2007 @ 8:41 am |
Thanks Joy! We’ve certainly enjoyed the experience. Looking forward to seeing you in July. N.
Comment by cassidynz — April 8, 2007 @ 6:27 am |