He may have been the ultimate one hit wonder, and David Bowie may have sued him for knicking the famous Ice Ice Baby dun, dun, dun, de, de, dun, dun from Under Pressure - but he's back on the mic baby.
Vanilla Ice is touring Australia apparently - only question is why isn't he coming here?? There is still such a large fan base here too! (I just joined the Facebook group)
As the man himself would say - WORD TO YOUR MUTHA.
Check out the Vanilla Ice Downunder Site
PS his westside-esque 'V' hand signal thingy is bad ass!
Friday, December 28, 2007
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Christmas Cards
In general Im not a big fan of greeting cards. Although I did particularly like the card my aunty sent to my old man. It was a fairly non-descript card - but her message was priceless - "I hope you have a reasonable day". We think she was referring to the weather - but I like to think she isnt. Im going to make cards for 08 with that inspiring message.
Anyway, ex-LRUer Diana has a great article on awful family Christmas cards. Very funny.
Also who knew - but she also does stand up now!?!
Anyway, ex-LRUer Diana has a great article on awful family Christmas cards. Very funny.
Also who knew - but she also does stand up now!?!
Review of 07 part one
I see in the Sunday Star Times in an interview with our Helen, that her favourite film of the year was The History Boys - so I thought I should come up with my own little list.
Although before I go on, I am interested to know what others thought of that film. Obviously I liked it, but it's treatment of what was essentially kiddy-fiddling irked me a bit - or am I being a little over dramatic?
Its been a long and winding year for film - so many good ones kicked it off, but to be fair it did slow a bit.
Notes on a Scandal was great, as was the Last King of Scotland. The Queen was way better than expected, and For Your Consideration was the opposite. Shortbus was fantastic (I still laugh when I think of the old lady who litterally fell out of seat) and Pans Labyrinth was amazing. Also I shouldnt forget Transformers - it was more than meets the eye and 300.
I should also mention a couple of NZ efforts - Black Sheep was hilarious, as was Eagle vs Shark and The Devil Dared Me To from the Back of the Y guys was pretty good. At the other end of the scale, Out of the Blue, was incredibly well done - especially given the risky nature of the material.
On the doco front there was Michael Moore's Sicko which was ok, and the excellent but scary Jesus Camp.
But I actually think that while it may not fit the usual mould - By the power of Greyskull, my film of 2007 is Hot Fuzz. Now of course this is as much about attending the premiere and what not, as it is about being a kick ass film. I don't care - I think it ruled. To borrow from Spaced - Hot Fuzz was TFU (The Fuckest Uppest).
Although before I go on, I am interested to know what others thought of that film. Obviously I liked it, but it's treatment of what was essentially kiddy-fiddling irked me a bit - or am I being a little over dramatic?
Its been a long and winding year for film - so many good ones kicked it off, but to be fair it did slow a bit.
Notes on a Scandal was great, as was the Last King of Scotland. The Queen was way better than expected, and For Your Consideration was the opposite. Shortbus was fantastic (I still laugh when I think of the old lady who litterally fell out of seat) and Pans Labyrinth was amazing. Also I shouldnt forget Transformers - it was more than meets the eye and 300.
I should also mention a couple of NZ efforts - Black Sheep was hilarious, as was Eagle vs Shark and The Devil Dared Me To from the Back of the Y guys was pretty good. At the other end of the scale, Out of the Blue, was incredibly well done - especially given the risky nature of the material.
On the doco front there was Michael Moore's Sicko which was ok, and the excellent but scary Jesus Camp.
But I actually think that while it may not fit the usual mould - By the power of Greyskull, my film of 2007 is Hot Fuzz. Now of course this is as much about attending the premiere and what not, as it is about being a kick ass film. I don't care - I think it ruled. To borrow from Spaced - Hot Fuzz was TFU (The Fuckest Uppest).
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Dude, we can see you
This is almost too hilarious to be true (big ups to the journalist for some of those classic sentences too)
From the Manawatu Standard -
From the Manawatu Standard -
Sex act blamed on exam stress
A student masturbated in changing rooms in Kmart because he was under exam stress, a Palmerston North court heard yesterday.
But a judge said he doubted this was the whole story because he had a report that suggested the 24-year- old was sexually aroused by trying on new trousers.
However, Judge Gregory Ross in the end decided not to convict the masturbator, who admitted offensive behaviour in the store, and banned publication of his name. He ordered a $100 payment toward the cost of prosecution.
It happened in the middle of the day on December 5, Sergeant Chris Whitmore told the hushed court.
The student went into the changing rooms with two pairs of trousers, pulled down his own trousers, sat on the floor of one of the rooms, and began his venture into onanism.
But there was a metre gap between door and floor and two people saw what he was doing.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Rodents of Unusual Size
It turns out The Princess Bride was right! Rodents of Unusual Size do exist!
They have been discovered in the form of giant rats in the remote jungles of Indonesia - five times the size of those found in cities!
They are calling them 'Mega Rats' - badass
Stuff story here
They have been discovered in the form of giant rats in the remote jungles of Indonesia - five times the size of those found in cities!
They are calling them 'Mega Rats' - badass
Stuff story here
Monday, December 17, 2007
With great Gusto
On the weekend I checked out Craft 2.0 over in the Hutt. I almost bought a pair of cufflinks - but credit-card guilt set in and I though better of it.
However, while over there we discovered a new (11 days old) brunch option - Gusto Bistro on Jackson St. I don't normally do the whole cafe review thing - but this was outstanding.
The coffee was fantastic - which for Petone is a big deal - I had the damn fine Eggs Benerizo with a Rosti, which was basically Eggs Benedict but with chorizo instead of ham, and a hash brown. The chorizo will blow your mind, and by all accounts the french toast was a taste sensation!
Its in an old dental chambers, but it looks more like an old bank, with wood panelled interiors. It seemed like a place that would be great for an evening meal too.
If I had a top 5 brunch spots (watch this space) this would make it. Check it out.
However, while over there we discovered a new (11 days old) brunch option - Gusto Bistro on Jackson St. I don't normally do the whole cafe review thing - but this was outstanding.
The coffee was fantastic - which for Petone is a big deal - I had the damn fine Eggs Benerizo with a Rosti, which was basically Eggs Benedict but with chorizo instead of ham, and a hash brown. The chorizo will blow your mind, and by all accounts the french toast was a taste sensation!
Its in an old dental chambers, but it looks more like an old bank, with wood panelled interiors. It seemed like a place that would be great for an evening meal too.
If I had a top 5 brunch spots (watch this space) this would make it. Check it out.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
100 000 strong for the Phoenix
The Herald has a good article on how the Phoenix have gone. It covers how, for the first time, a NZ team's crowd figures have passed 100 000 for the season (excluding the Beckham game and training - another 47 000).
In drawing on Friday night, the Phoenix can no longer qualify for the play-offs (it was a long shot anyway), and I was worried that our dopey media organisations would stand back and moan that this is just like the Knights. It clearly isnt. The Phoenix had not much more than two months to pull a competitive side together - and they managed it. The crowd numbers have bettered what the Wellington Lions were getting for Air NZ Cup games, and have been, on average, ten times greater than what the Knights achieved.
What is most interesting in the article is that 14 December (the date the Phoenix passed the 100k mark) was the date in 2006 when the Knights had their League Licence revoked. Which captures the stark contrast perfectly.
So it was nice to see some recognition of what has been achieved - especially from the Auckland paper!
In drawing on Friday night, the Phoenix can no longer qualify for the play-offs (it was a long shot anyway), and I was worried that our dopey media organisations would stand back and moan that this is just like the Knights. It clearly isnt. The Phoenix had not much more than two months to pull a competitive side together - and they managed it. The crowd numbers have bettered what the Wellington Lions were getting for Air NZ Cup games, and have been, on average, ten times greater than what the Knights achieved.
What is most interesting in the article is that 14 December (the date the Phoenix passed the 100k mark) was the date in 2006 when the Knights had their League Licence revoked. Which captures the stark contrast perfectly.
So it was nice to see some recognition of what has been achieved - especially from the Auckland paper!
Huckabee's first family
How disturbing is this? Its new Republican front runner, Mike Huckabee's Christmas Card... this time next year - that could be the new first family.
Suddenly the Mormon and the adulterer aren't looking so bad!
Suddenly the Mormon and the adulterer aren't looking so bad!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Quality innit
There are a couple of great new shows on UKTV for the summer.
Jam and Jerusalem is Jennifer Saunders new show, and it features a who's-who of British Comedy in the cast - Joana Lumley, Dawn French (obviously), Sue Johnston, and Sally Phillips. Its about the Womens Guild in a small british town - Clatterford St Mary - and its crazy characters - French is outstanding as a sorta-slow-semi-retarded-but-well-meaning local. Its kind of like League of Gentlemen in many ways - but not anywhere near as dark.
Another outstanding pick is Steve Coogan's excellent show Saxondale, about his new character Tommy Saxondale - an ex-roadie who now runs a pest control company called "Simply the Pest". It screens Thursday nights at 9ish and is worth giving a shot - even though its nothing like Partridge. Plus after you've watched that hang around for the fantastic repeats of british drama/comedy Shameless at 11.
Also its good to note that Catherine Tate has hit the mainstream here with her excellent show screening on TV2, Friday nights.
And another thing - if you get bored - for those who remember the game show Shooting Stars on TV4 (Matt Lucas' first tv gig) check out their online games here on the BBC site. Uvavu!
Jam and Jerusalem is Jennifer Saunders new show, and it features a who's-who of British Comedy in the cast - Joana Lumley, Dawn French (obviously), Sue Johnston, and Sally Phillips. Its about the Womens Guild in a small british town - Clatterford St Mary - and its crazy characters - French is outstanding as a sorta-slow-semi-retarded-but-well-meaning local. Its kind of like League of Gentlemen in many ways - but not anywhere near as dark.
Another outstanding pick is Steve Coogan's excellent show Saxondale, about his new character Tommy Saxondale - an ex-roadie who now runs a pest control company called "Simply the Pest". It screens Thursday nights at 9ish and is worth giving a shot - even though its nothing like Partridge. Plus after you've watched that hang around for the fantastic repeats of british drama/comedy Shameless at 11.
Also its good to note that Catherine Tate has hit the mainstream here with her excellent show screening on TV2, Friday nights.
And another thing - if you get bored - for those who remember the game show Shooting Stars on TV4 (Matt Lucas' first tv gig) check out their online games here on the BBC site. Uvavu!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The Obama/Oprah show
Ok I promise this is my last post this week on the US Elections!
But I had to mention the Obama/Oprah roadshow and what looks like a surge in support for Obama. Obama is a Bobby Kennedy style figure - gift of the gab, talks about 'hope' a lot and is the sort of person you would be proud to have as a leader.
However, till recently he has been well behind the Clinton machine - so he called in the big guns - namely Oprah. Oprah is able to make a book a best seller just by giving it some profile - and it may well be that her endorsement is a crucial moment in the Dem campaign.
In South Carolina, they had booked out an 18 000 seat indoor arena for their roadshow - it was too small, so they moved to a baseball stadium - and 29 000 people came to hear Obama and Oprah. In key battleground state of Iowa - 18 500 came out. Huge numbers in anyones language.
Below is a video of the "highlights" - if you want to watch their whole speeches go here
But I had to mention the Obama/Oprah roadshow and what looks like a surge in support for Obama. Obama is a Bobby Kennedy style figure - gift of the gab, talks about 'hope' a lot and is the sort of person you would be proud to have as a leader.
However, till recently he has been well behind the Clinton machine - so he called in the big guns - namely Oprah. Oprah is able to make a book a best seller just by giving it some profile - and it may well be that her endorsement is a crucial moment in the Dem campaign.
In South Carolina, they had booked out an 18 000 seat indoor arena for their roadshow - it was too small, so they moved to a baseball stadium - and 29 000 people came to hear Obama and Oprah. In key battleground state of Iowa - 18 500 came out. Huge numbers in anyones language.
Below is a video of the "highlights" - if you want to watch their whole speeches go here
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Bush Makes Surprise Visit To Work
In a fantastic piss-take, The Onion, has done a parody of Bush's visit to Iraq - with a piece on him making a surprise visit to the White House to do some work.
The article says that opponents have claimed that the trip was staged as a "media ploy" intended to convince the public that the administration's occupation of Washington, D.C. was not a lost cause.
"President Bush wants us to believe that he is in touch with the Bush administration," political analyst Garry Wills said.
Some of the best bits below -
and
Read the article here
The article says that opponents have claimed that the trip was staged as a "media ploy" intended to convince the public that the administration's occupation of Washington, D.C. was not a lost cause.
"President Bush wants us to believe that he is in touch with the Bush administration," political analyst Garry Wills said.
Some of the best bits below -
"Am I late?" Bush joked to the group of approximately 200, who were led to believe they would be attending a ceremony to honor Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters. Bush's entrance received a standing ovation.
"It is incredible to see firsthand what you brave men and women do every day," Bush said to rousing applause. "You are all heroes."
Telling the group he wished he had the time to work alongside each and every one of them, Bush made general inquiries about conditions at the executive mansion, recruitment of new personnel, and where everyone was eating for lunch.
According to sources close to the president, Bush barely had time to rest during the four-hour visit. He first met face-to-face with several high-ranking U.S. officials, who briefed him on the situation in Washington. Bush then signed a number of documents, took a guided tour of the facilities, and in a symbolic show of support for the current administration, shook hands with the vice president.
and
"For most members of the White House staff, it was their first chance to meet the president. Many said they were "overcome" with excitement.
"When I was getting ready for work this morning, the last person I ever thought I'd see was the president of the United States," said Alexander Mistri, special assistant to the president for legislative affairs.
"I actually got to shake hands with the president," Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao said. "He seems like a very nice man in person.".
Read the article here
Haven't we had enough?
The Huffington Post has launched a series of great posters/billboards attacking the Republicans.
They list either people (Bush, Cheney, Libby, Rove etc), events (Abu Ghraib, Katrina etc) or the Bush Administration's slogans (pictured). I think they're a great way of capturing everything that people are sick of and framing the debate. The Huff Post are also calling for peoples ideas for future editions.
They list either people (Bush, Cheney, Libby, Rove etc), events (Abu Ghraib, Katrina etc) or the Bush Administration's slogans (pictured). I think they're a great way of capturing everything that people are sick of and framing the debate. The Huff Post are also calling for peoples ideas for future editions.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Stormin Morman
Republican Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, made his big "don't fear me because im morman" speech recently, replicating Kennedy's catholic speech. But unlike Kennedy, who by talking about his faith - shut the issue down, Romney appears to have made matters worse.
While in most countries I don't think it would matter too much that you were Morman, it does in the US - with some states taking a particularly dim view of it. However, Romney had been competitive in most polls till uber-Christian, Mike Huckabee stormed ahead of Romney and the morally liberal, Giuliani. Hence, Romney is trying reach across all faiths in attempting to court the religous vote.
In this very good article, Matthew Yglesias rips into Romney following the speech -
However, my main issue with Romney is actually his flip-flopping. When he ran for Governor of the liberal state of Massachusetts he was pro-choice and pro-gay rights. Now he is running for President and trying to get the red-neck vote - he's pro-life and anti gay rights. Be one thing or the other and stick to it.
What is most pleasing is that while he may be polling well within the Republicans, he trails the leading Democrats in head-to-head polling according to the latest Curia newsletter.
Romney v Clinton (Clinton by 11 per cent)
Romney v Obama (Obama by 13 per cent)
Romney v Edwards (Edwards by 15 per cent)
While in most countries I don't think it would matter too much that you were Morman, it does in the US - with some states taking a particularly dim view of it. However, Romney had been competitive in most polls till uber-Christian, Mike Huckabee stormed ahead of Romney and the morally liberal, Giuliani. Hence, Romney is trying reach across all faiths in attempting to court the religous vote.
In this very good article, Matthew Yglesias rips into Romney following the speech -
It's hard to see this as anything other than an effort to trick people; the Mormon emphasis on Gethsemane rather than the crucification is not a trivial theological difference, nor is the fact that Mormons believe in "another," more important, Testament of Jesus Christ in addition to the Christian Bible. I don't personally have a stake in that quarrel but I paid enough attention in Bible class at Grace Church School to know that this isn't some nothing to be papered over.
However, my main issue with Romney is actually his flip-flopping. When he ran for Governor of the liberal state of Massachusetts he was pro-choice and pro-gay rights. Now he is running for President and trying to get the red-neck vote - he's pro-life and anti gay rights. Be one thing or the other and stick to it.
What is most pleasing is that while he may be polling well within the Republicans, he trails the leading Democrats in head-to-head polling according to the latest Curia newsletter.
Romney v Clinton (Clinton by 11 per cent)
Romney v Obama (Obama by 13 per cent)
Romney v Edwards (Edwards by 15 per cent)
Friday, December 07, 2007
Is this wrong
Im kind of comforted that im not the only person who wants to pash their new Mac!
Yes people it is official - after the whole Noel Leemings debacle, I have gone out and bought a new Mac (from Dick Smith - I am honouring the Noel Leemings Trade Embargo). I have flirted with the idea of getting a Mac for years, but always thought changing OS would be more trouble than its worth - its not - I love it, its ridiculously easy and I will never buy another PC again.
I even have the whole Skype whatsit downloaded! (or whatever you call it)
I guess this is one small step for man, one giant leap for Blackbird Singing.
Yes people it is official - after the whole Noel Leemings debacle, I have gone out and bought a new Mac (from Dick Smith - I am honouring the Noel Leemings Trade Embargo). I have flirted with the idea of getting a Mac for years, but always thought changing OS would be more trouble than its worth - its not - I love it, its ridiculously easy and I will never buy another PC again.
I even have the whole Skype whatsit downloaded! (or whatever you call it)
I guess this is one small step for man, one giant leap for Blackbird Singing.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
My god I agree with Kerry!?!?!
Mayor Kerry has said we need to build a second Terrace Tunnel and a second Mt Victoria Tunnel. I have been harping on about this for ages!
We shouldnt be encouraging more cars into Wellington via Transmission Gully till the bottle necks have been dealt with! The Mt Vic tunnel especially is diabolical at peak times - as is the single southbound lane in the Terrace. We have major roading issues within the city - and encouraging more cars in without fixing existing problems is daft. (Also where will they all park?!?! There aren't enough parks now!)
While also actually finishing highway one by duplicating the tunnels, we should also improve public transport - so people don't feel they have to drive from areas like Paraparaumu and Waikanae. If we had fast, reliable rail (say a 20-25 minute trip) to the Kapiti Coast - then the need for Transmission Gully in the immediate future would greatly reduce. There is quite a good argument that the Gully would provide an alternative route out of Wellington - which is currently at risk of being cut off in a major disaster (if there are slips along Centennial Highway or Paekakariki or on highway 2 in the Rimutaka's).
What I would also love to see would be the revitalisation of the Railway Station - with a light-rail service link to the Airport - and why not have check-in kiosks at the Railway Station if you only have carry-on?
I just think spending a billion dollars on Transmission Gully before doing these things is stupid.
We shouldnt be encouraging more cars into Wellington via Transmission Gully till the bottle necks have been dealt with! The Mt Vic tunnel especially is diabolical at peak times - as is the single southbound lane in the Terrace. We have major roading issues within the city - and encouraging more cars in without fixing existing problems is daft. (Also where will they all park?!?! There aren't enough parks now!)
While also actually finishing highway one by duplicating the tunnels, we should also improve public transport - so people don't feel they have to drive from areas like Paraparaumu and Waikanae. If we had fast, reliable rail (say a 20-25 minute trip) to the Kapiti Coast - then the need for Transmission Gully in the immediate future would greatly reduce. There is quite a good argument that the Gully would provide an alternative route out of Wellington - which is currently at risk of being cut off in a major disaster (if there are slips along Centennial Highway or Paekakariki or on highway 2 in the Rimutaka's).
What I would also love to see would be the revitalisation of the Railway Station - with a light-rail service link to the Airport - and why not have check-in kiosks at the Railway Station if you only have carry-on?
I just think spending a billion dollars on Transmission Gully before doing these things is stupid.
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Beckham for sale.... well his leftovers
There's a really odd story on Stuff today about how Beckham's half finished glass of cola, half eaten corn-cob and the cuttlery he used during his now famous visits to Nandos are available to buy on Trade Me.
Apparently the waitress heard cash-registers ringing in her head and nicked off with it all to sell. The manager is in full support of this too.
In a sign that there is some sanity in the world - there havent been any bids yet. If you're nuts (or a stalker - not pointing any fingers... Gus) the starting bids for the cuttlery is $50 and $100 for the fucking corn cob.
I just hate think what else would be for sale if he used the bathroom!
Apparently the waitress heard cash-registers ringing in her head and nicked off with it all to sell. The manager is in full support of this too.
In a sign that there is some sanity in the world - there havent been any bids yet. If you're nuts (or a stalker - not pointing any fingers... Gus) the starting bids for the cuttlery is $50 and $100 for the fucking corn cob.
I just hate think what else would be for sale if he used the bathroom!
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
NZ's actual best soul singer
I bought Whirimako Black's new album, the imaginatively titled 'Whirimako Black Sings' as a Christmas present for my old man (along with a pair of Man Pants screenprinted with a weta from the very excellent Wanda Harland store in Petone - he said "he always needs new underwear" when I asked him what he wanted."). So I gave it the obligatory listen - and I absolutely love it.
Black beats the pants off the highly touted Holly Smith. Smith is young and great and funky and all that - but for absolute cool factor, Black is fantastic. She comfortably pulls off a traditional soul style - while dropping in phrases of Te Reo. If you dig soul music at all (or think Holly Smith is great) - check it out, you're bound to dig it (or buy it for your parents and take a listen).
Monday, December 03, 2007
Nando's??
Well Beckham came and conquered the Phoenix in their friendly kick about on Saturday night. We did manage to see some fantastic passes and cross balls - and of course his goal (well penalty - which was a dubious call (the guy tripped himself) - fairly sure since he hadnt had a free kick they decided he needed to score a goal).
The other stuff he did was interesting - dinner at Monsoon Poon on Thursday night - but it was his lunch at Nando's that really surprised me - all that money and he still goes for the fried chicken sandwich!
Regardless of what people think of the guy - no one else could have got a crowd of 32 000 along to a football game in New Zealand.
When you add on the 15 000 strong crowd for the public training the Galaxy did on Friday and the nearly 19 000 at the Phoenix/Adelaide A-League game on Friday night - around 66 000 people attended football events at the stadium on Friday and Saturday. Only Rugby could normally attract a crowd like that here - so IMO it was definitely worth bringing Beckham and the LA Galaxy to Wellington.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Don't shop at Noel Leemings
Below is the text of my complaint email I sent off yesterday to Noel Leemings Head Office, and which I cc'd to Erin Brockovich. (she is currently front NL's campaign telling everyone how they are 'the real deal' and act with such wonderful 'corporate responsibility')
Full credit to Brockovich also - she actually replied - and not just a generic reply - she said she would take it up with NL. Noel Leemings have not replied.
To whom it may concern at the Noel Leemings Group NZ Ltd,
I wish to register a complaint regarding the after-sales service provided by Noel Leemings.
Around two years ago I bought a Sony Vaio lap-top computer from Noel Leemings in Wellington - and till a couple of months back - it worked fine.
However, it recently lost power and stopped working. So I took it in to your 'Technology' branch in Wellington for repair. It was outside its warranty period, so I expected a cost would be involved.
After a month or so, it was returned to me 'fixed' and I paid out around NZ$300. But, a month and a half later the same thing happened again - so I took it in, again. I was told that "If it was the same problem, it would be fixed under a three-month service warranty". I said 'great', to which your staff member replied "hehe but they normally find something else wrong and charge you for that, hehe." Naturally, to which, I raised my eyebrows. He then said - Oh only joking I'm sure they're really honest - in a slightly sarcastic tone. I dismissed this assuming he was joking.
Turns out he wasn't. I received a call yesterday telling me that it would cost an additional NZ$400 to have it repaired - as it was, you guessed it - "a different issue". I said well I'm not throwing 'good money after bad' I would sooner buy a new one. And now - just to get the thing back I have to pay what is essentially a NZ$95 ransom/service fee!
My complaint - is that I paid NZ$300 for a repair - that did not work. Now Noel Leemings want another NZ$400 to fix what is essentially the same problem - or NZ$95 just to get my unfixed computer back. Either way I am going to be at least $395 (or at worst NZ$700!) out of pocket with a computer that does not work!
For a company that has just launched a series of TV adverts endorsing their 'good corporate practices' and "doing the right thing" by customers - personally, I think this is shameful customer service.
Over the years I have spent literally thousands of dollars at Noel Leemings and Bond & Bond stores on TVs, stereos, white ware - fridges, washing machines etc, 2 computers and all sorts of other stuff. And yet when I actually tried to get some sort of reasonable standard of after sales service - I basically got shafted.
By contrast, a friend of mine had trouble with his Apple iBook - not only did the Apple outlet, Magnum-Mac, actually fix the problem, they also lent him a laptop for two weeks while his machine was being repaired. That is 'the real deal' - that is what I consider good customer service.
I intend to raise this with your store manager at Noel Leemings Technology - fully realising that it is likely to be a futile act (much like this email). But I want it known that I do not take being ripped off lightly - especially by a company that preaches that it does the right thing by customers, and is 'the real deal'.
Regards
Im waiting for them to call to say its ready for me to pick up (and pay their ransom). It will be all on like donkey kong that day.
Full credit to Brockovich also - she actually replied - and not just a generic reply - she said she would take it up with NL. Noel Leemings have not replied.
To whom it may concern at the Noel Leemings Group NZ Ltd,
I wish to register a complaint regarding the after-sales service provided by Noel Leemings.
Around two years ago I bought a Sony Vaio lap-top computer from Noel Leemings in Wellington - and till a couple of months back - it worked fine.
However, it recently lost power and stopped working. So I took it in to your 'Technology' branch in Wellington for repair. It was outside its warranty period, so I expected a cost would be involved.
After a month or so, it was returned to me 'fixed' and I paid out around NZ$300. But, a month and a half later the same thing happened again - so I took it in, again. I was told that "If it was the same problem, it would be fixed under a three-month service warranty". I said 'great', to which your staff member replied "hehe but they normally find something else wrong and charge you for that, hehe." Naturally, to which, I raised my eyebrows. He then said - Oh only joking I'm sure they're really honest - in a slightly sarcastic tone. I dismissed this assuming he was joking.
Turns out he wasn't. I received a call yesterday telling me that it would cost an additional NZ$400 to have it repaired - as it was, you guessed it - "a different issue". I said well I'm not throwing 'good money after bad' I would sooner buy a new one. And now - just to get the thing back I have to pay what is essentially a NZ$95 ransom/service fee!
My complaint - is that I paid NZ$300 for a repair - that did not work. Now Noel Leemings want another NZ$400 to fix what is essentially the same problem - or NZ$95 just to get my unfixed computer back. Either way I am going to be at least $395 (or at worst NZ$700!) out of pocket with a computer that does not work!
For a company that has just launched a series of TV adverts endorsing their 'good corporate practices' and "doing the right thing" by customers - personally, I think this is shameful customer service.
Over the years I have spent literally thousands of dollars at Noel Leemings and Bond & Bond stores on TVs, stereos, white ware - fridges, washing machines etc, 2 computers and all sorts of other stuff. And yet when I actually tried to get some sort of reasonable standard of after sales service - I basically got shafted.
By contrast, a friend of mine had trouble with his Apple iBook - not only did the Apple outlet, Magnum-Mac, actually fix the problem, they also lent him a laptop for two weeks while his machine was being repaired. That is 'the real deal' - that is what I consider good customer service.
I intend to raise this with your store manager at Noel Leemings Technology - fully realising that it is likely to be a futile act (much like this email). But I want it known that I do not take being ripped off lightly - especially by a company that preaches that it does the right thing by customers, and is 'the real deal'.
Regards
Im waiting for them to call to say its ready for me to pick up (and pay their ransom). It will be all on like donkey kong that day.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
From the Campaign Trail
As we count down to a possible change of government across the tasman, I thought I would share this gem from the campaign trail.
Australian Labor leader, Kevin Rudd, has been busy appearing on Rove and student radio etc - to appear to be down with kids. But unfortunately it turns out that Rudd is still just a 50 year old conservative Christian at heart - and like Rowan Atkinson in Four Weddings and Funeral can't bring himself to say 'condom'.
Asked on youth radio network 'Triple J' whether he supported condom use as a safe sex message for young people he broke out an absolute corker example of bureaucratise.
"In terms of effective aids prevention mechanisms, contraception along the lines you described are appropriate," said Rudd before doing a silly giggle.
Good grief. Wouldnt "Yeah absolutely" have been a better answer?
Still, it should be all on for young and old this weekend. Labor are well ahead, but my only fear is that they will over-capitalise in their safe seats, and not pick up enough votes in the marginals. I guess we will see on Saturday night (well the early hours of Sunday morning).
Australian Labor leader, Kevin Rudd, has been busy appearing on Rove and student radio etc - to appear to be down with kids. But unfortunately it turns out that Rudd is still just a 50 year old conservative Christian at heart - and like Rowan Atkinson in Four Weddings and Funeral can't bring himself to say 'condom'.
Asked on youth radio network 'Triple J' whether he supported condom use as a safe sex message for young people he broke out an absolute corker example of bureaucratise.
"In terms of effective aids prevention mechanisms, contraception along the lines you described are appropriate," said Rudd before doing a silly giggle.
Good grief. Wouldnt "Yeah absolutely" have been a better answer?
Still, it should be all on for young and old this weekend. Labor are well ahead, but my only fear is that they will over-capitalise in their safe seats, and not pick up enough votes in the marginals. I guess we will see on Saturday night (well the early hours of Sunday morning).
It's a Sony
Just a couple of weeks away from Beckham touching down in Wellington now, and the Phoenix have announced their new main sponsor - Sony.
Sony are relative newcomers to sponsorship in New Zealand - we're more accustomed to Banks, Beers, Phones and Fridges. Also means that everyone will have to go and buy the playing strip again!! lol
In other news Stuff had a dumb article on one of their 'blogs' on how we are witnessing the "death of the suit". Rubbish. Im all for suits and ties and I would go as far as to say we should ban casual Fridays. Hardly anyone does business casual - we just do casual. It can't be good for productivity.
Maybe as a compromise we could "Phoenix Fridays" and all wear our Sony Phoenix strips??
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Couple of things
Well the Melbourne Cup was a bit of a dud from my amateur punters point of view - all the horses I was backing finished mid-field - bugger. I did go through a run of picking the winner four years in a row - 2002, Media Puzzle and then 2003, 04, and 05, Makybe Diva. I did pull out the big guns for our Melbourne Cup event though - making a huge comeback was my old Ozwald Boateng tie for one last dash!
Also big ups to One Moment Caller - with One Moment Caller junior set to join the team next year!
And to finish, I have an oddspot. Prince, (who has been mentioned on my blog before) is actually crazier than we all first thought. The Seventh Day Adventist (I love saying that) has apparently threatened the people who run fan websites - dedicated to him! - with legal action, unless they remove images they have of him on their sites. You would have thought his bizarro actions in the last few years would have put them off already - but this may be the last straw?? I guess this is what it sounds like when doves cry?
Also big ups to One Moment Caller - with One Moment Caller junior set to join the team next year!
And to finish, I have an oddspot. Prince, (who has been mentioned on my blog before) is actually crazier than we all first thought. The Seventh Day Adventist (I love saying that) has apparently threatened the people who run fan websites - dedicated to him! - with legal action, unless they remove images they have of him on their sites. You would have thought his bizarro actions in the last few years would have put them off already - but this may be the last straw?? I guess this is what it sounds like when doves cry?
Monday, November 05, 2007
Festivas for the rest of us
The Documentary Film Festival has just got under way. The standout in the line up has to be Spike Lee's four hour epic When the Levees Broke. The film was originally shown on HBO in the states in four parts. Lee goes around interviewing residents of New Orleans post-Katrina. By all accounts it is an incredibly moving picture.
Also, the International Festival of the Arts has launched their programme. The free projection show (Body Moves) on the city-side of Te Papa looks great, and I hope it works as well as the Waitangi Park outdoor exhibition at the last festival.
Composer Philip Glass', new work, Book of Longing, based on the 'poetry and images' of Leonard Cohen looks great. Giselle, the dance work by the 'Fabulous Beast Dance Company' of Ireland looks so crazy that it must be fun to watch!
Of course Blackbird will attract a lot of attention as a result of being directed by Cate Blanchett, but the blurb does make it look interesting. Might be hard to get tickets though given Blanchett's involvement (and the fact that its name is similar to my blog!)
If the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain are half as good as Wellington's International Ukulele Orchestra - then this show is an absolute must-see. Apparently they play songs by Tchaikovsky, Nirvana, Kate Bush, The Sex Pistols, Otis Redding and many others - sounds like a great night. Also good to see that they are taking performances out to the provinces, with shows in Masterton and Pram.
Finishing it off, the excellent David (possibly the funniest man in NZ) Fane probably makes going to the Bro'Town live stage show worthwhile.
Check it out - its festivals like these that make Wellington great.
Also, the International Festival of the Arts has launched their programme. The free projection show (Body Moves) on the city-side of Te Papa looks great, and I hope it works as well as the Waitangi Park outdoor exhibition at the last festival.
Composer Philip Glass', new work, Book of Longing, based on the 'poetry and images' of Leonard Cohen looks great. Giselle, the dance work by the 'Fabulous Beast Dance Company' of Ireland looks so crazy that it must be fun to watch!
Of course Blackbird will attract a lot of attention as a result of being directed by Cate Blanchett, but the blurb does make it look interesting. Might be hard to get tickets though given Blanchett's involvement (and the fact that its name is similar to my blog!)
If the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain are half as good as Wellington's International Ukulele Orchestra - then this show is an absolute must-see. Apparently they play songs by Tchaikovsky, Nirvana, Kate Bush, The Sex Pistols, Otis Redding and many others - sounds like a great night. Also good to see that they are taking performances out to the provinces, with shows in Masterton and Pram.
Finishing it off, the excellent David (possibly the funniest man in NZ) Fane probably makes going to the Bro'Town live stage show worthwhile.
Check it out - its festivals like these that make Wellington great.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Meh
Meh - is my reaction to this week's Cabinet reshuffle. One of the commentators (Espiner?) were close to the mark when they said the reshuffle was like painting the walls and cupboards and replacing the taps without doing anything else to the kitchen - fundamentally its still the same beast.
For all his previous great work, Finance Minister Cullen now appears arrogant and seems to have come down with what Jane Clifton called i-know-best-itis. I think at the very least he should have been shifted to a shared Treasurer/Minister of Finance role with the popular and very electable Phil Goff.
In saying that, I didn't really expect that to happen anyway. I only hope Labour hasn't missed yet another opportunity this year. Rightly or wrongly, people in New Zealand and Australia have been attracted to their respective fresh and enthusiastic opposition leaders. I think the reshuffle was a chance to neutralise that in the NZ case by promoting someone like Goff to the pivotal Finance role.
Anyway, you will remember that earlier in the year I gave my suggestion for a reshuffle - now I was almost entirely wrong - but I was saying what I wanted rather than what I thought would happen. Regardless, of the five people I suggested be promoted to the Ministry (Jones, Street, Chadwick, Chauvel and Hughes), only Chauvel missed out. I guess four out of five ain't bad. Although I'm still not sure why Chauvel didn't get in - at least to a role outside the Cabinet? He is clearly as capable as Hughes or Chadwick.
Its good to see new blood all the same though. I was also happy with how Law and Order has been shut down - King/Goff vs Power will be a much better contest than Burton/O'Connor vs Power ever was. Cunliffe has performed well in Immigration and Comms and IT, and although he will be outside his comfort-zone, I think the Health portfolio could make him. I worry about Carter in Education - he was controversial in the junior Housing and Conservation portfolios - I hope he gets it together now. King running Electoral Finance (EFB) could be something to watch too. She failed to get any sort of cross-party consensus on the ANZTPA (Therapeutics) - which is what is needed now on the EFB. I really hope she can turn that Bill into something that at least upholds Labour's values.
So on the whole, there are some great bits, and well, some 'other' bits - hence my reaction: meh.
For all his previous great work, Finance Minister Cullen now appears arrogant and seems to have come down with what Jane Clifton called i-know-best-itis. I think at the very least he should have been shifted to a shared Treasurer/Minister of Finance role with the popular and very electable Phil Goff.
In saying that, I didn't really expect that to happen anyway. I only hope Labour hasn't missed yet another opportunity this year. Rightly or wrongly, people in New Zealand and Australia have been attracted to their respective fresh and enthusiastic opposition leaders. I think the reshuffle was a chance to neutralise that in the NZ case by promoting someone like Goff to the pivotal Finance role.
Anyway, you will remember that earlier in the year I gave my suggestion for a reshuffle - now I was almost entirely wrong - but I was saying what I wanted rather than what I thought would happen. Regardless, of the five people I suggested be promoted to the Ministry (Jones, Street, Chadwick, Chauvel and Hughes), only Chauvel missed out. I guess four out of five ain't bad. Although I'm still not sure why Chauvel didn't get in - at least to a role outside the Cabinet? He is clearly as capable as Hughes or Chadwick.
Its good to see new blood all the same though. I was also happy with how Law and Order has been shut down - King/Goff vs Power will be a much better contest than Burton/O'Connor vs Power ever was. Cunliffe has performed well in Immigration and Comms and IT, and although he will be outside his comfort-zone, I think the Health portfolio could make him. I worry about Carter in Education - he was controversial in the junior Housing and Conservation portfolios - I hope he gets it together now. King running Electoral Finance (EFB) could be something to watch too. She failed to get any sort of cross-party consensus on the ANZTPA (Therapeutics) - which is what is needed now on the EFB. I really hope she can turn that Bill into something that at least upholds Labour's values.
So on the whole, there are some great bits, and well, some 'other' bits - hence my reaction: meh.
Radiohead - In Rainbows
Last couple of days Ive been listening to Radiohead's seventh album - In Rainbows. Its a little hard to review as I have no idea what the track names are and the computer shat itself, so my burnt copy doesnt have the last two tracks.
Before youre outraged at me owning a burnt copy - this is of course the album that they released via their website for "however much you want to pay". In my case that meant nothing.... shut it, Ive spent more than enough over the years on EPs, Singles etc by Radiohead to make up for it - and frankly giving, like a buck, would be insulting. Thats my line and im sticking to it.
Anyway the album follows on nicely from Hail to the Thief. I always thought that Hail was the album that should have come out after OK Computer, before Kid A. I think that may have provided a nice link for those who felt Kid A and Amnesiac (which of course features my favourite Radiohead track - Pyramid Song) were a bridge too far.
In Rainbows, while still pushing the boundaries, is again along the lines of Hail to the Thief. Tracks 2, 5 and 6 are all outstanding and Im really loving Track 4 - toe tapping goodness! Despite missing the last couple of tracks, I think this is a fantastic album.
Like Hail to the Thief, this could bring a lot of the OK Computer crowd back to, arguably, the most important band in the last 15 years.
Download a copy here (feel free to make a donation in lieu of my download).
You can read about all the background etc etc and even see a track listing here
Before youre outraged at me owning a burnt copy - this is of course the album that they released via their website for "however much you want to pay". In my case that meant nothing.... shut it, Ive spent more than enough over the years on EPs, Singles etc by Radiohead to make up for it - and frankly giving, like a buck, would be insulting. Thats my line and im sticking to it.
Anyway the album follows on nicely from Hail to the Thief. I always thought that Hail was the album that should have come out after OK Computer, before Kid A. I think that may have provided a nice link for those who felt Kid A and Amnesiac (which of course features my favourite Radiohead track - Pyramid Song) were a bridge too far.
In Rainbows, while still pushing the boundaries, is again along the lines of Hail to the Thief. Tracks 2, 5 and 6 are all outstanding and Im really loving Track 4 - toe tapping goodness! Despite missing the last couple of tracks, I think this is a fantastic album.
Like Hail to the Thief, this could bring a lot of the OK Computer crowd back to, arguably, the most important band in the last 15 years.
Download a copy here (feel free to make a donation in lieu of my download).
You can read about all the background etc etc and even see a track listing here
Monday, October 29, 2007
iWant an iPad
I spotted this in the latest Urbis - Auckland architect Andre Hodgskin has developed the iPad - a flat-pack kitset bach.
They retail from NZD125 000 and are delivered to your section ready to be assembled.
You can get them in one or two bedroom or one bedroom plus guesthouse (lay out pictured).
They are made to be a bach or second home - but I wouldnt mind one as my main home! I just love the simplicity of them and their temporary nature (you can pack them up and put them on another section.... in saying 'you can' I really mean you can get people to do it!).
They remind me of that rather odd looking townhouse development down Boulcott St - the one built on stilts above a carpark. Now that is actually the site for the 20-plus-storey Willis Tower, and while the developer gets the dosh together he had those townhouses put above the carpark to optimise the space in the interim. The townhouses will be moved to a permanent home later and sold off to make way for the development.
Anyway, I need to go and find a section (and a couple of hundred grand) for an iPad.
More information on the iPad here
They retail from NZD125 000 and are delivered to your section ready to be assembled.
You can get them in one or two bedroom or one bedroom plus guesthouse (lay out pictured).
They are made to be a bach or second home - but I wouldnt mind one as my main home! I just love the simplicity of them and their temporary nature (you can pack them up and put them on another section.... in saying 'you can' I really mean you can get people to do it!).
They remind me of that rather odd looking townhouse development down Boulcott St - the one built on stilts above a carpark. Now that is actually the site for the 20-plus-storey Willis Tower, and while the developer gets the dosh together he had those townhouses put above the carpark to optimise the space in the interim. The townhouses will be moved to a permanent home later and sold off to make way for the development.
Anyway, I need to go and find a section (and a couple of hundred grand) for an iPad.
More information on the iPad here
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Greatest all time soundtrack
Vanity Fair has come up with a list of the top 50 movie soundtracks, not sure I entirely agree with them - but its not bad in any case
Vanity Fair's Top 10
1. Purple Rain (Prince's film - VF called the soundtrack - a combination of "funk, R&B, pop, metal, and even psychedelia into a sound that defined the '80s", but described the film itself as "perhaps the most badly-acted ever".)
2. A Hard Day's Night (The Beatles... in case you didn't know)
3. The Harder They Come (1972 film - never heard of it - starred Jimmy Cliff... apparently)
4. Pulp Fiction
5. The Graduate
6. Trainspotting
7. Saturday Night Fever
8. Superfly
9. American Graffiti and
10. The Big Chill
My top 5 (granted I haven't put too much thought into it)
1. Magnolia (The movie was BOLLOCKS (don't lie, you know it really is) but the soundtrack is fantastic - well the Aimee Mann tracks - which is most of them)
2. Pulp Fiction
3. Trainspotting
4. Almost Famous
5. High Fidelity
Highly commended would be the Velvet Goldmine, Standing in the Shadows of Mowtown, I am Sam and probably even Eagle vs Shark (but that's just because its in my car stereo at the moment).
I didn't count the numerous Beatles 'soundtracks' as the 'movies' they were linked to were actually more extended music videos. Also I didn't count films like the Johnny Cash biopic - Walk the Line nor Edith Piaf's La Vie En Rose (which is worth seeing - the lead should win best actress) as I think they were more 'best of' collections.
Vanity Fair's Top 10
1. Purple Rain (Prince's film - VF called the soundtrack - a combination of "funk, R&B, pop, metal, and even psychedelia into a sound that defined the '80s", but described the film itself as "perhaps the most badly-acted ever".)
2. A Hard Day's Night (The Beatles... in case you didn't know)
3. The Harder They Come (1972 film - never heard of it - starred Jimmy Cliff... apparently)
4. Pulp Fiction
5. The Graduate
6. Trainspotting
7. Saturday Night Fever
8. Superfly
9. American Graffiti and
10. The Big Chill
My top 5 (granted I haven't put too much thought into it)
1. Magnolia (The movie was BOLLOCKS (don't lie, you know it really is) but the soundtrack is fantastic - well the Aimee Mann tracks - which is most of them)
2. Pulp Fiction
3. Trainspotting
4. Almost Famous
5. High Fidelity
Highly commended would be the Velvet Goldmine, Standing in the Shadows of Mowtown, I am Sam and probably even Eagle vs Shark (but that's just because its in my car stereo at the moment).
I didn't count the numerous Beatles 'soundtracks' as the 'movies' they were linked to were actually more extended music videos. Also I didn't count films like the Johnny Cash biopic - Walk the Line nor Edith Piaf's La Vie En Rose (which is worth seeing - the lead should win best actress) as I think they were more 'best of' collections.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Making a tough task harder
Like most other Wellington sports teams the Phoenix seem to be going out of their way to frustrate their addicted fans!
Going into injury time at the end of the fixture with the table-topping Central Coast Mariners at 1-1, and after having the better of the second half, it looked like the Nix would leave the capital with 1 point. But no, some how our defenders gifted the Mariners striker an absolute lolly - which he duly guided into the goal for a 2-1 Mariners win. (video of the goals below)
This leaves the Nix in an uncomfortable position - seventh. Since our 4-1 win over Perth three weeks ago, we have lost three on the trot. We now have three away games. Which is why it was vital to get at least a point out of the Mariners clash.
Phoenix will need to pick up points in all three games now to avoid falling off the pace.
Granted, this is nothing like the Knights and the Nix are still in the running. But the honeymoon is well and truly over and its time to start putting things together out on the pitch.
On a high note - what about marquee signing, Ahmed Elrich's, strike from 30 metres out to equalise!?!?!
Next up are Adelaide, Perth (the new Knights), and Queensland.
Going into injury time at the end of the fixture with the table-topping Central Coast Mariners at 1-1, and after having the better of the second half, it looked like the Nix would leave the capital with 1 point. But no, some how our defenders gifted the Mariners striker an absolute lolly - which he duly guided into the goal for a 2-1 Mariners win. (video of the goals below)
This leaves the Nix in an uncomfortable position - seventh. Since our 4-1 win over Perth three weeks ago, we have lost three on the trot. We now have three away games. Which is why it was vital to get at least a point out of the Mariners clash.
Phoenix will need to pick up points in all three games now to avoid falling off the pace.
Granted, this is nothing like the Knights and the Nix are still in the running. But the honeymoon is well and truly over and its time to start putting things together out on the pitch.
On a high note - what about marquee signing, Ahmed Elrich's, strike from 30 metres out to equalise!?!?!
Next up are Adelaide, Perth (the new Knights), and Queensland.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The Hillary and Kevin show
Given Howard has called the Australian Federal election for 24 November, and the US primaries are beginning to heat up, I thought it was worth floating the question that would ALP and Democrat governments at a federal level be good for NZ?
I'm not so sure, in fact I would actually lead towards 'not really'.
Howard and Clark, despite being from opposite ends of the spectrum, have actually worked really well together. In fact the last eight years are referred to as a "golden-period" in the relationship. Howard, despite his conservative flaws, has actually been very good towards NZ, primarily because he gets on with Clark.
But, just because ALP leader, Kevin Rudd, comes from the same political family as Clark, doesn't mean they will get on. Take Whitlam/Kirk or Lange/Hawke as examples - all 'labour' prime ministers, but they did not get along. Or on the other side, Muldoon/Fraser didn't really get on either, and even when we have had a left/right mix in the past - Keating/Bolger, it hasn't worked. But Clark/Howard has, because they have both had the relationship as a top foreign policy priority.
So far Rudd has mostly seemed interested in China, which is fine, and it is clearly a strength of his (he's fluent in mandarin), but I would love to see some sort of nod towards his neighbours.
On the US I have similar sentiments. Don't get me wrong, the Republicans have to go - but don't forget that the Democrats were more than willing to give us the cold-shoulder for the best part of the 1990s.
Now I'm not saying I would vote for Howard or the Republicans, but we do have to recognise that for our own nationalistic interests, a Rudd Government is not necessarily a great thing. I think New Zealand is going to have to work very hard in the next few years to ensure we aren't shut out again.
I'm not so sure, in fact I would actually lead towards 'not really'.
Howard and Clark, despite being from opposite ends of the spectrum, have actually worked really well together. In fact the last eight years are referred to as a "golden-period" in the relationship. Howard, despite his conservative flaws, has actually been very good towards NZ, primarily because he gets on with Clark.
But, just because ALP leader, Kevin Rudd, comes from the same political family as Clark, doesn't mean they will get on. Take Whitlam/Kirk or Lange/Hawke as examples - all 'labour' prime ministers, but they did not get along. Or on the other side, Muldoon/Fraser didn't really get on either, and even when we have had a left/right mix in the past - Keating/Bolger, it hasn't worked. But Clark/Howard has, because they have both had the relationship as a top foreign policy priority.
So far Rudd has mostly seemed interested in China, which is fine, and it is clearly a strength of his (he's fluent in mandarin), but I would love to see some sort of nod towards his neighbours.
On the US I have similar sentiments. Don't get me wrong, the Republicans have to go - but don't forget that the Democrats were more than willing to give us the cold-shoulder for the best part of the 1990s.
Now I'm not saying I would vote for Howard or the Republicans, but we do have to recognise that for our own nationalistic interests, a Rudd Government is not necessarily a great thing. I think New Zealand is going to have to work very hard in the next few years to ensure we aren't shut out again.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Standards and censorship
I read a great interview with Chief Censor, Bill Hastings, in the Weekend Herald's 'Canvas' magazine pull out yesterday. Now im not much of a fan of censorship, but reading some of the things he has had to sit through - Im glad the role exists.
What made me laugh though, was good old David (i cant help but complain about film festivals) Lane and the Society for the Protection of Community Standards. His quotes were hillarious -
My only question is - what the fuck is David Lane watching to have that level of detail?? And if he is really so offended by it - dont go into the little room at the video store and hire it in the first place!!!
They hardly stock this content under comedy or drama! (maybe 'action' i guess?)
What made me laugh though, was good old David (i cant help but complain about film festivals) Lane and the Society for the Protection of Community Standards. His quotes were hillarious -
The society's executive director, David Lane, believes all hard-core pornography should be banned under the act's provision against "degrading, dehumanising, or demeaning" content.
"Let's take the example of oral sex, where males penetrate a woman right to the depths of her throat.... where the woman chokes with the guy's private part right [there]," says Lane. "Is that degrading or demeaning? We're not talking about a nice gentle caress, we're talking about a woman, so orally penetrated that she has gagged."
"There are other videos which Hastings regularly passes which involves multiple sexual penetration. There might be two men going at it flat-out anally with a woman, and one from the 'front-entry' and another from the 'oral entry' and away you go."
My only question is - what the fuck is David Lane watching to have that level of detail?? And if he is really so offended by it - dont go into the little room at the video store and hire it in the first place!!!
They hardly stock this content under comedy or drama! (maybe 'action' i guess?)
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Who would have thought?
My initial reaction to the news that the Police had raided alleged terrorist training camps in the Bay of Plenty and other related properties throughout the country - was that, surely they are over reacting here.
But, when you read about their haul of firearms, you can't help but think - fucking hell! I mean napalm FFS!
The 'pacifists' from Abel Smith St in Wellington were hillarious - they were apparently "mystified" as to why the Police would raid their house..... the "large semi-automatic weapons, molotov cocktails, shotguns and rifles" that were confiscated might be a clue. Id love to hear their definition of pacifism.
The Police seem to be suggesting that this was Maori seperatist groups working with envionmental and other likeminded activists. This could do untold damage to the credibility of legitimate community and political lobby groups.
Crazy stuff.
But, when you read about their haul of firearms, you can't help but think - fucking hell! I mean napalm FFS!
The 'pacifists' from Abel Smith St in Wellington were hillarious - they were apparently "mystified" as to why the Police would raid their house..... the "large semi-automatic weapons, molotov cocktails, shotguns and rifles" that were confiscated might be a clue. Id love to hear their definition of pacifism.
The Police seem to be suggesting that this was Maori seperatist groups working with envionmental and other likeminded activists. This could do untold damage to the credibility of legitimate community and political lobby groups.
Crazy stuff.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Wii + Lightsabers = EEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On Nov 6 the dream comes true!
The new Star Wars game on the Wii will feature Wiimote-Lightsaber dueling.
How cool is that??????????
This is gonna kick sooooooooooo much arse its not funny!
Once again the Wii proves that it is TFU! (The Fuckest Uppest)
Also in other news, Apple is opening a three level Apple Store in Australia - I only hope this means the iPhone will actually get released here.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Bend it like... Felipe!
I just bought tickets for the Phoenix vs LA Galaxy clash at the 'Ring of Fire' in December. Stoked.
Great marketing again by the Phoenix - great idea to include the A-League game against Adelaide in the Galaxy ticket (buy one get one free type deal).
Wellington has been a stunning football success with, on average, ten times more people at Phoenix home games, than there were for the Auckland Knights.
The atmosphere is completely different to Rugby, with no stupid pumping music - the crowd makes the noise. In many ways it reminds of the good old days (pre-Police-pressence) at a One Day Cricket International at the Basin Reserve.
My favourite chant has to be the "what the fucking, what the fucking, what the fucking hell was that? What the fucking hell was that?" In response to Perth's pathetic attempts on Goal. Although the "We're not Auckland, we're not Auckland, we're not Auckland any more! We're not Auckland any more!" is also quality.
Now I wonder - has Angus got tickets? Maybe he doesnt need them as he's seen Beckham play before? He is supposedly Beckham's biggest fan, and owns all sorts of homoerotic biographies and posters... Oh no, thats right he isnt in NZ so misses out... ohhhh... nevermind
Great marketing again by the Phoenix - great idea to include the A-League game against Adelaide in the Galaxy ticket (buy one get one free type deal).
Wellington has been a stunning football success with, on average, ten times more people at Phoenix home games, than there were for the Auckland Knights.
The atmosphere is completely different to Rugby, with no stupid pumping music - the crowd makes the noise. In many ways it reminds of the good old days (pre-Police-pressence) at a One Day Cricket International at the Basin Reserve.
My favourite chant has to be the "what the fucking, what the fucking, what the fucking hell was that? What the fucking hell was that?" In response to Perth's pathetic attempts on Goal. Although the "We're not Auckland, we're not Auckland, we're not Auckland any more! We're not Auckland any more!" is also quality.
Now I wonder - has Angus got tickets? Maybe he doesnt need them as he's seen Beckham play before? He is supposedly Beckham's biggest fan, and owns all sorts of homoerotic biographies and posters... Oh no, thats right he isnt in NZ so misses out... ohhhh... nevermind
Monday, October 08, 2007
What happened? Why? How?
This morning I don't know what to say. I feel exactly like one does when someone they know dies. There is nothing to be done, you really just have to get on. There's not a lot of point discussing the whys, the hows, the who can we blame theories, none of it will change anything and its not like you will suddenly discover some magical switch that could help.
Now I'm sure some of you are thinking - get over it, its only rugby, (or worse) its only a game. If you are thinking that, then you will never understand.
My favourite book is Nick Hornby's Fever Pitch, while many think it is about football, to me it isnt. Its about being a fan. Hornby describes what it means to devote your entire being to the performance of 'your' team. The euphoria of the highs and yes the utter despair of the lows.
Needless to say - yesterday was the latter. It was like a car crash. One minute you're on a high, everything is going along fine, then all of a sudden - bam. When you set off, you know it would be disastrous if you cross the centre line - the risk levels are high. No matter how well you prepare, one lapse in concentration and whack youre gone. You can't undo it, you can't go back. There is no point thinking, if only I did this... or if I did that. That's what the latest world cup loss feels like. We knew - all to well - that it could happen, but its gutting all the same and thats it... the end. You're left shocked, dazed and not sure what to do next.
The worst bit though, is knowing full well, that in four years, you will again give everything to that team again. You will again think - this year is different, this is our year... even though the shadow of previous failures remain.
So that's it. I'm not interested in the media telling me what was wrong with the campaign, why Henry should be sacked etc, why 'they knew all along' that we would lose and so on. There's no point its done. See you in four years.
Now I'm sure some of you are thinking - get over it, its only rugby, (or worse) its only a game. If you are thinking that, then you will never understand.
My favourite book is Nick Hornby's Fever Pitch, while many think it is about football, to me it isnt. Its about being a fan. Hornby describes what it means to devote your entire being to the performance of 'your' team. The euphoria of the highs and yes the utter despair of the lows.
Needless to say - yesterday was the latter. It was like a car crash. One minute you're on a high, everything is going along fine, then all of a sudden - bam. When you set off, you know it would be disastrous if you cross the centre line - the risk levels are high. No matter how well you prepare, one lapse in concentration and whack youre gone. You can't undo it, you can't go back. There is no point thinking, if only I did this... or if I did that. That's what the latest world cup loss feels like. We knew - all to well - that it could happen, but its gutting all the same and thats it... the end. You're left shocked, dazed and not sure what to do next.
The worst bit though, is knowing full well, that in four years, you will again give everything to that team again. You will again think - this year is different, this is our year... even though the shadow of previous failures remain.
So that's it. I'm not interested in the media telling me what was wrong with the campaign, why Henry should be sacked etc, why 'they knew all along' that we would lose and so on. There's no point its done. See you in four years.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Question
Why would you release your foreign policy discussion document on the same day that the Prime Minister (your opponent!) is speaking at the Oxford Union, visiting a war hero's grave, and meeting the Prime Minister of Britain????
Good on ya! Why not draw attention to your comparative inexperience?
Im not sure you could find a much worse day to release it? On a day like this - Clark couldnt look more prime ministerial and on top of foreign policy if she tried - so what the hell were National thinking??
Good grief.
Campaign tips from Timaru
There is a lot of talk about people standing in different electorates in 2008. As a guide to all these aspirants the current local body elections have provided a wonderful example of what to do on the campaign trail.
This from the Timaru Herald...
I don't know about you, but I can't wait for more campaigning lessons from Timaru!
This from the Timaru Herald...
Council candidate charged after urinating in gutter
The Timaru Herald | Tuesday, 2 October 2007
A Timaru district council candidate has been charged with offensive behaviour, following an incident in Dunedin last week.
The Timaru Herald was able to confirm yesterday that Karen Collings, who is standing for the Timaru ward on the council, was charged with offensive behaviour after allegedly being seen urinating in the gutter outside a Dunedin hotel.
I don't know about you, but I can't wait for more campaigning lessons from Timaru!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Computer recycling day tomorrow
Just a reminder that tomorrow is Wellington Computer Recycling day at Westpac Stadium.
If you have any old computers or mobile phones that youre looking dump - take them along to the Ring of Fire and get rid of them!
If you have any old computers or mobile phones that youre looking dump - take them along to the Ring of Fire and get rid of them!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Murder House
I went to the dentist for my annual check up yesterday. Passed with flying colours naturally... the dentist noted that I have "very, very good teeth" hell yeah!
So while on this high I caved in to the pressure to go to the "Dental Hygenist" as well. What a rock solid waste of time (and money!) that was.
If you are unfamiliar with the role of the Dental Hygenist, they basically do the work that dentists once did with the orbital sander/polisher hoobly device etc etc. But clearly they are also in the pocket of Colgate and other such multinationals! Throughout the whole experience she tried pushing their products on me - you should try COLGATE mouthwash (apparently Listerine isnt as good as "COLGATE brand"), and COLGATE electric toothbrushes and COLGATE floss.
She didnt seem to get my joke when I asked if she was getting kick-backs from Colgate - so maybe this means she is??
What really made me laugh though, is that she did nothing other than what dentists used to do to your teeth before they created this position. Which made me think, did the Dental Hygenist role come about during the Nat Govts 1990s work-for-the-dole scheme? Was this just a 'make-work' exercise?
Whatever the background is to this role - I should write MUG on my forehead. Afterall it was me who shelled out $65 to be told after a barely five minute consultation that my teeth were "very, very good" and then paid out another $150 to the Hygenist for her Colgate sales pitch.
So a word of advice - Next time your dentist suggests a visit to the Dental Hygentist, say thanks, but no thanks and just pick up the Colgate brochure instead.
So while on this high I caved in to the pressure to go to the "Dental Hygenist" as well. What a rock solid waste of time (and money!) that was.
If you are unfamiliar with the role of the Dental Hygenist, they basically do the work that dentists once did with the orbital sander/polisher hoobly device etc etc. But clearly they are also in the pocket of Colgate and other such multinationals! Throughout the whole experience she tried pushing their products on me - you should try COLGATE mouthwash (apparently Listerine isnt as good as "COLGATE brand"), and COLGATE electric toothbrushes and COLGATE floss.
She didnt seem to get my joke when I asked if she was getting kick-backs from Colgate - so maybe this means she is??
What really made me laugh though, is that she did nothing other than what dentists used to do to your teeth before they created this position. Which made me think, did the Dental Hygenist role come about during the Nat Govts 1990s work-for-the-dole scheme? Was this just a 'make-work' exercise?
Whatever the background is to this role - I should write MUG on my forehead. Afterall it was me who shelled out $65 to be told after a barely five minute consultation that my teeth were "very, very good" and then paid out another $150 to the Hygenist for her Colgate sales pitch.
So a word of advice - Next time your dentist suggests a visit to the Dental Hygentist, say thanks, but no thanks and just pick up the Colgate brochure instead.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Talk like a Pirate day
Arrrr
Today is of course international talk like a Pirate day me hearties.
One of my colleagues noted that he is probably the only person in Wellington to have captained a 'pirate' vessel - the HMAS Buccaneer. What a great name for a ship!
I have a quiz night tonight so im heading to Toyworld at lunchtime to get a Pirate hat (would be rude not to!).
Wikipedia have quite a good article on it here but what it drew my attention to was a new 'religion' Pastafarianism. The followers believe in the Flying Spaghetti Monster or the Spaghedeity.
Today is of course international talk like a Pirate day me hearties.
One of my colleagues noted that he is probably the only person in Wellington to have captained a 'pirate' vessel - the HMAS Buccaneer. What a great name for a ship!
I have a quiz night tonight so im heading to Toyworld at lunchtime to get a Pirate hat (would be rude not to!).
Wikipedia have quite a good article on it here but what it drew my attention to was a new 'religion' Pastafarianism. The followers believe in the Flying Spaghetti Monster or the Spaghedeity.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Nix vs Becks
Its official - on Sunday 2 December, David Beckham and the LA Galaxy will play Wellington Phoenix FC at the Ring of Fire (stadium).
Beckham is contracted to play at least 55 minutes. Kick ass!
Of course the Phoenix also notched up their first win over the weekend (should have been their second but never mind). Below is video of the goals - the second goal (Wellington's first) by Felipe was stunning. Check it out.
And if youre in Wellington - get along and support the team against Adelaide on Sunday and/or Perth Glory the following week.
Beckham is contracted to play at least 55 minutes. Kick ass!
Of course the Phoenix also notched up their first win over the weekend (should have been their second but never mind). Below is video of the goals - the second goal (Wellington's first) by Felipe was stunning. Check it out.
And if youre in Wellington - get along and support the team against Adelaide on Sunday and/or Perth Glory the following week.
Sun protection without looking silly
Granted, creams, lotions and cosmetics arent a common topic here, but this is possibly the greatest innovation since the roll-on. Just go with me on it...
The shiney nature of sunscreen has always been one of my many annoyances - you want to cover up and avoid sunburn, but do you really need to look like you just completed an ironman?
Well no longer! Yesterday one of my colleagues (who had clearly heard my rant on this topic) forwarded me the good news.
Neutrogena have released a 'matte' finish sunscreen, and you can get it at the supermarket. Oh happy day - no more shiney greasy summers.
Bask in the glorious emancipation from shiney summer skin!
Read all about it here
Monday, September 17, 2007
Cashback
The very efficient IRD have repaid me $1600 as I had over paid my loan when I made the final repayment in 2002.
It's hillarious, they have sent through my Loan statement as though it is in reference to recent events. It reads, 19/03/02 Repayment received - thank you, and then on 01/04/02 Interest write-off - 1655.05.
So it has only taken IRD five and a half years to update me on my 'current' Student Loan account - but better late than never.
I would like to say that the Milky Bars are on me and that it will be my shout - but my Credit Card has first dibs!
It's hillarious, they have sent through my Loan statement as though it is in reference to recent events. It reads, 19/03/02 Repayment received - thank you, and then on 01/04/02 Interest write-off - 1655.05.
So it has only taken IRD five and a half years to update me on my 'current' Student Loan account - but better late than never.
I would like to say that the Milky Bars are on me and that it will be my shout - but my Credit Card has first dibs!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
She came third too!
After yesterdays rants its time for something lighter. This is probably in my all time top 5 You Tube vids... Miss South Carolina take it away. Such as...
Monday, September 03, 2007
A new career?
I spent most of Thursday and Friday at Victoria University's annual NZ Political Science Association conference and after that I've decided I want to be an academic.
I figure all you need to be able to do is;
1. Never hold a job in the real world, but always act as though you have.
2. Say really really obvious things over and over.
3. Speak for 20 minutes longer than you are supposed to.
4. Throw in a few sarcastic comments about 'politicians' everytime you speak, and of course
5. Always present yourself as an "expert" despite never having ever worked in a job related to your field of 'expertise'.
Simple.
I figure all you need to be able to do is;
1. Never hold a job in the real world, but always act as though you have.
2. Say really really obvious things over and over.
3. Speak for 20 minutes longer than you are supposed to.
4. Throw in a few sarcastic comments about 'politicians' everytime you speak, and of course
5. Always present yourself as an "expert" despite never having ever worked in a job related to your field of 'expertise'.
Simple.
Idiot media
Ive just read an article from yesterday's Herald on Sunday about the 'outrageous' prices Ricky Gervais is charging for his Edinburgh Fringe Festival "Fame" performance. This is the second thing ive heard about complaints, after Radio NZ had something similar saying all the usual - he's too big for his boots type of crap. God the media are pathetic, they scavenge about for any sniff of controversy and then can't help but beat it up out of any proportion.
Gervais is charging GBP37.50 per ticket - just over NZD100. Granted this is head an shoulders above other ticket prices.... but it's also completely sold out. Also, after the initial fuss Gervais said he will donate the profits to MacMillan Cancer Care - which the HoS greet as some sort of machiavellian conspiracy saying - "It is not clear how much of the GBP300 000 takings the charity will eventually receive." What the fuck else does he need to do??
The article also suggests Gervais hasn't earned his position as "King of Comedy" - which of course is a reference to Gervais appearing on a throne with a crown at the beginning of the show. Look at the name of the show - Fame - it's clearly tongue in cheek!
I agree with Gervais' manager who said on RNZ - What's the big deal? If the ticket price was too much, people wouldn't go. The Fringe Festival season is sold out. End of story.
Exactly.
Gervais is charging GBP37.50 per ticket - just over NZD100. Granted this is head an shoulders above other ticket prices.... but it's also completely sold out. Also, after the initial fuss Gervais said he will donate the profits to MacMillan Cancer Care - which the HoS greet as some sort of machiavellian conspiracy saying - "It is not clear how much of the GBP300 000 takings the charity will eventually receive." What the fuck else does he need to do??
The article also suggests Gervais hasn't earned his position as "King of Comedy" - which of course is a reference to Gervais appearing on a throne with a crown at the beginning of the show. Look at the name of the show - Fame - it's clearly tongue in cheek!
I agree with Gervais' manager who said on RNZ - What's the big deal? If the ticket price was too much, people wouldn't go. The Fringe Festival season is sold out. End of story.
Exactly.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Seven Mary Three to base
Finally! The greatest show in television history is coming to DVD on 12 September!! That's right baby - "CHiPs" series one with Jon and Ponch laying the smack down on Californian criminals.... well those on the highway at least. Issuing traffic infringement notices has never been more exciting.
I am literally buzzing with excitement to see the opening credits again. (Yes I know they are on You Tube, but its not the same). I had a "CHiPs" bike when I was a kid, it had a clip-on plastic 'petrol tank' to make it look pretty much exactly like a California Highway Patrol issue motorbike. Well I thought so anyway.
So exciting!
Oh and for the amateurs amongst you, 'Seven Mary Three' was of course Jon's call sign.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Where's a good protocol droid when you need one?
I have (against my better judgement) joined the Face Book "phenomenon". I still don't really get it. I guess since I have a blog, I feel that my self-indulgent-web-quota has been filled and that I don't really need a Face Book profile - but after much encouragement I joined anyway.
However, since joining I have been vexed by the protocols surrounding the whole thing. Today's copy of the Bulletin has an article on 'poking' people and asking people to be 'friends'. It suggests that just because someone was next to you in the queue at your supermarket, it doesn't mean you should be Face Book buddies. Quite right. But what point is the cut off? At what point do you approach people? Do you make like a wallflower and wait for people to approach you? Or do you go nuts and just start sending off invitations to your intermediate school classmates?
And if you see people you know, you then ask yourself - well why haven't they added me themselves? Did I piss them off? Has my mind deleted some 'incident' where I 'wronged' this person? Or was it them, who crossed me? Do I actually hate this person? Have I simply forgotten my deep-seated hatred for their existence? I can't remember - I haven't seen them in nearly 8 years!
This has just added another complex layer to the lives of the socially awkward.
However, since joining I have been vexed by the protocols surrounding the whole thing. Today's copy of the Bulletin has an article on 'poking' people and asking people to be 'friends'. It suggests that just because someone was next to you in the queue at your supermarket, it doesn't mean you should be Face Book buddies. Quite right. But what point is the cut off? At what point do you approach people? Do you make like a wallflower and wait for people to approach you? Or do you go nuts and just start sending off invitations to your intermediate school classmates?
And if you see people you know, you then ask yourself - well why haven't they added me themselves? Did I piss them off? Has my mind deleted some 'incident' where I 'wronged' this person? Or was it them, who crossed me? Do I actually hate this person? Have I simply forgotten my deep-seated hatred for their existence? I can't remember - I haven't seen them in nearly 8 years!
This has just added another complex layer to the lives of the socially awkward.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Those Crafty Hutt people
Yesterday I popped over to the glorious Hutt Valley to check out Craft 2.0 at the Dowse and I was mighty impressed.Showcasing local crafters, is a fantastic idea and its fair to say I spent some moolah. Now before I go on, these weren't crafts of the drift-wood-coat-rack-come-shoe-rack variety... no no this was much cooler.
There were loads of great stalls, but for me one stood out - Trixie Delicious and their Vandalised Vintage range. Pictured is the one I bought - theyre old school plates that they have 'vandalised' with words like Fuckface, R16, Pervert, Marnus and so on - but I couldnt go past 'Retard'.
I was thinking about putting it up in my office, but im not sure my co-workers could handle it!
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Peter Kay's Universal Truths
Just got forwarded this on 'the email', too good not to share. It's UK comedian Peter Kay (Phoenix Nights) Seinfeld-esque universal truths. enjoy
PETER KAY'S 35 UNIVERSAL TRUTHS:
1) Triangular sandwiches taste better than square ones.
2) At the end of every party there is always a girl crying.
3) One of the most awkward things that can happen in a pub is when your pint-to-toilet cycle gets synchronised with a complete stranger.
4) You've never quite sure whether it's ok to eat green crisps.
5) Everyone who grew up in the 80's has entered the digits 55378008 into a calculator.
6) Reading when you're drunk is horrible.
7) Sharpening a pencil with a knife makes you feel really manly.
8) You're never quite sure whether it's against the law or not to have a fire in your back garden.
10) Nobody ever dares make cup-a-soup in a bowl.
11) You never know where to look when eating a banana.
12) Its impossible to describe the smell of a wet cat.
13) Prodding a fire with a stick makes you feel manly.
14) Rummaging in an overgrown garden will always turn up a bouncy ball.
15) You always feel a bit scared when stroking horses.
16) Everyone always remembers the day a dog ran into your school.
17) The most embarrassing thing you can do as schoolchild is to call your teacher mum or dad.
18) The smaller the monkey the more it looks like it would kill you at the first given opportunity.
19) Some days you see lots of people on crutches.
20) Every bloke has at some stage while taking a pee flushed half way through and then raced against the flush.
21) Old women with mobile phones look wrong!
22) Its impossible to look cool whilst picking up a Frisbee.
23) Driving through a tunnel makes you feel excited.
24) You never ever run out of salt.
25) Old ladies can eat more than you think.
26) You can't respect a man who carries a dog.
27) There's no panic like the panic you momentarily feel when you've got your hand or head stuck in something.
28) No one knows the origins of their metal coat hangers.
29) Despite constant warning, you have never met anybody who has had their arm broken by a swan.
30) The most painful household incident is wearing socks and stepping on an upturned plug.
31) People who don't drive slam car doors too hard
32) You've turned into your dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with.
33) Everyone had an uncle who tried to steal their nose.
34) Bricks are horrible to carry.
35) In every plate of chips there is a bad chip.
PETER KAY'S 35 UNIVERSAL TRUTHS:
1) Triangular sandwiches taste better than square ones.
2) At the end of every party there is always a girl crying.
3) One of the most awkward things that can happen in a pub is when your pint-to-toilet cycle gets synchronised with a complete stranger.
4) You've never quite sure whether it's ok to eat green crisps.
5) Everyone who grew up in the 80's has entered the digits 55378008 into a calculator.
6) Reading when you're drunk is horrible.
7) Sharpening a pencil with a knife makes you feel really manly.
8) You're never quite sure whether it's against the law or not to have a fire in your back garden.
10) Nobody ever dares make cup-a-soup in a bowl.
11) You never know where to look when eating a banana.
12) Its impossible to describe the smell of a wet cat.
13) Prodding a fire with a stick makes you feel manly.
14) Rummaging in an overgrown garden will always turn up a bouncy ball.
15) You always feel a bit scared when stroking horses.
16) Everyone always remembers the day a dog ran into your school.
17) The most embarrassing thing you can do as schoolchild is to call your teacher mum or dad.
18) The smaller the monkey the more it looks like it would kill you at the first given opportunity.
19) Some days you see lots of people on crutches.
20) Every bloke has at some stage while taking a pee flushed half way through and then raced against the flush.
21) Old women with mobile phones look wrong!
22) Its impossible to look cool whilst picking up a Frisbee.
23) Driving through a tunnel makes you feel excited.
24) You never ever run out of salt.
25) Old ladies can eat more than you think.
26) You can't respect a man who carries a dog.
27) There's no panic like the panic you momentarily feel when you've got your hand or head stuck in something.
28) No one knows the origins of their metal coat hangers.
29) Despite constant warning, you have never met anybody who has had their arm broken by a swan.
30) The most painful household incident is wearing socks and stepping on an upturned plug.
31) People who don't drive slam car doors too hard
32) You've turned into your dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with.
33) Everyone had an uncle who tried to steal their nose.
34) Bricks are horrible to carry.
35) In every plate of chips there is a bad chip.
How good is the Phoenix?
Yet to even play a proper A-League match, the Phoenix has (according to todays Dominion) booked David Beckham and the LA Galaxy to play an exhibition match in Wellington in November.
After spending stupid amounts of money on getting Beckham, the Galaxy are taking him on a world tour playing exhibition matches to make some dosh. One of their first stops is Sydney, to play A-League side, Sydney FC, and apparently Wellington legend Terry Serepisos has jumped on this and is in talks to chuck in a Wellington leg. By "in talks" I mean theyre determining how much cash the Phoenix will have to stump up.
What better way to promote football and the Wellington Phoenix, than getting David Beckham to town? Fantastic. This is great for football and great for Wellington.
This is all the more better as the biggest Beckham fan that I know, wont actually be in New Zealand. As Cartman would say - Oh your tears, they taste so good!
After spending stupid amounts of money on getting Beckham, the Galaxy are taking him on a world tour playing exhibition matches to make some dosh. One of their first stops is Sydney, to play A-League side, Sydney FC, and apparently Wellington legend Terry Serepisos has jumped on this and is in talks to chuck in a Wellington leg. By "in talks" I mean theyre determining how much cash the Phoenix will have to stump up.
What better way to promote football and the Wellington Phoenix, than getting David Beckham to town? Fantastic. This is great for football and great for Wellington.
This is all the more better as the biggest Beckham fan that I know, wont actually be in New Zealand. As Cartman would say - Oh your tears, they taste so good!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Chekhov's Seagull
I went and saw the Royal Shakespeare Company's version of Chekhov's The Seagull last night at the St James Theatre.
Of course the 'star' of the show (and reason most people were there) was Sir Ian McKellen, as the old man Sorin. It was a masterful performance by Gandalf, who appeared to be having the time of his life playing with the character. But out of the 20-30 strong ensemble cast it was Madame Arkadina (Sorin's sister) that stood out for me. She was hilarious and even sounded a little like Dame Judy Dench at times.
Wasn't all daisys though - there were six cell phone rings (three were from one person), and an annoying woman in front of me who leaned forward so far that she actually covered half my view of the stage - not to mention her slugging back water in a pump bottle (with full sucking and bottle scrunching sounds). Heathens.
Not too worry though as the RSC performance was so good that it didnt really matter.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Tony Wilson
It needs to be noted that Tony Wilson passed away last Friday.
Wilson was a revolutionary figure in the music industry, he arguably discovered the Sex Pistols in 1976, after seeing them at a small gig in Manchester he invited them on his TV show - which basically launched them.
He set up Factory Records and managed several acts that changed the face music including Joy Division, the Happy Mondays and of course New Order. He also co-owned the infamous Hacienda night club in Manchester - "where the white man learnt to dance". You could argue that through his exploits, Wilson invented the rave and club culture as we know it. The club has has been demolished and replaced by appartments. I still remember the bemused looks on the faces of Chris and Bridget when I stayed with them in Manchester, after I took a photo of the very plain looking block of appartments!
The movie 24hr Party People is all about his career - you should check it out.
Wilson was a revolutionary figure in the music industry, he arguably discovered the Sex Pistols in 1976, after seeing them at a small gig in Manchester he invited them on his TV show - which basically launched them.
He set up Factory Records and managed several acts that changed the face music including Joy Division, the Happy Mondays and of course New Order. He also co-owned the infamous Hacienda night club in Manchester - "where the white man learnt to dance". You could argue that through his exploits, Wilson invented the rave and club culture as we know it. The club has has been demolished and replaced by appartments. I still remember the bemused looks on the faces of Chris and Bridget when I stayed with them in Manchester, after I took a photo of the very plain looking block of appartments!
The movie 24hr Party People is all about his career - you should check it out.
Little bit apples and oranges
I went and saw a preview screening of Michael Moore's new doco - Sicko. Its all about health services in the US and how crap they are. It made me think of a couple of things.
Moore really annoys me at times through his generalisations and see-no-evil approach to European countries - and Canada. Yes the NHS is great, and is held in very high regard in Britain - but its not perfect. Same with Canada, in fact they have they much the same issues we have here - long waiting lists etc, staff retention issues, but yes it is a pretty good system.
Then there is France, one of the most subsidised countries in the world. Economically, France has underperformed in the last 20-30 years - arguably because of the heavy state involvement in the economy (their farmers are still subsidised at pre 1980s NZ levels). The French are now largely reliant on Govt subsidies. So its apples and oranges to compare the US health system with these countries, they are all structured differently and all have their own issues.
In saying that, the US system is an absolute disgrace. It is based on the good old Tory myth that there is no such thing as bad luck - if something goes wrong in your life, its because you fucked up (hence no need for a safety net - you should have worked harder).
At the very least the state should provide free emergency health services. What kind of country bills someone for ambulatory and emergency department care related to a car accident??
I was pleased that Moore chose to travel to Cuba as well. The most maligned country in the world, just happens to have the some of the best health and education services in the world. In fact for the large part NZ's Primary Health care Strategy and PHOs are based on Cuba's approach. Essentially its about cheap/free primary care (doctors/nurses visits) - catching illnesses early rather than putting prohibitive costs between patients and care (meaning illnesses get worse/need surgery etc etc).
But the policies of the US were the model for the Bolger National government in the 1990s - user pays. Which is the second thought I had. Tony Ryall has made no secret of National's plans to re-privatise ACC (despite it being a failure the first time). So who will be surprised if ACC providers start denying people coverage on the basis of some fine-print clause in your agreement?
While we may not always get it right with health care, there are fundamentals that need to be upheld. As the US shows us, most people will choose to make their basic ends meet (power bills/mortgages/food for your kids) before putting money into health insurance on the off chance they will one day need it. This is why the state MUST provide coverage.
I don't believe for a second that National has changed their spots on health care, and Sicko, for all its flaws is a timely reminder of what will be at stake in 2008. Go and see Sicko, take Moore's comparisons with other countries for what they are, but reflect on what sort of country we want here. National, like the US, will use health as a revenue gathering machine to make up for their cuts to taxation. Health should be solely about making people better, not making a buck. Unfortunately this is again the choice we will be facing in 2008.
Moore really annoys me at times through his generalisations and see-no-evil approach to European countries - and Canada. Yes the NHS is great, and is held in very high regard in Britain - but its not perfect. Same with Canada, in fact they have they much the same issues we have here - long waiting lists etc, staff retention issues, but yes it is a pretty good system.
Then there is France, one of the most subsidised countries in the world. Economically, France has underperformed in the last 20-30 years - arguably because of the heavy state involvement in the economy (their farmers are still subsidised at pre 1980s NZ levels). The French are now largely reliant on Govt subsidies. So its apples and oranges to compare the US health system with these countries, they are all structured differently and all have their own issues.
In saying that, the US system is an absolute disgrace. It is based on the good old Tory myth that there is no such thing as bad luck - if something goes wrong in your life, its because you fucked up (hence no need for a safety net - you should have worked harder).
At the very least the state should provide free emergency health services. What kind of country bills someone for ambulatory and emergency department care related to a car accident??
I was pleased that Moore chose to travel to Cuba as well. The most maligned country in the world, just happens to have the some of the best health and education services in the world. In fact for the large part NZ's Primary Health care Strategy and PHOs are based on Cuba's approach. Essentially its about cheap/free primary care (doctors/nurses visits) - catching illnesses early rather than putting prohibitive costs between patients and care (meaning illnesses get worse/need surgery etc etc).
But the policies of the US were the model for the Bolger National government in the 1990s - user pays. Which is the second thought I had. Tony Ryall has made no secret of National's plans to re-privatise ACC (despite it being a failure the first time). So who will be surprised if ACC providers start denying people coverage on the basis of some fine-print clause in your agreement?
While we may not always get it right with health care, there are fundamentals that need to be upheld. As the US shows us, most people will choose to make their basic ends meet (power bills/mortgages/food for your kids) before putting money into health insurance on the off chance they will one day need it. This is why the state MUST provide coverage.
I don't believe for a second that National has changed their spots on health care, and Sicko, for all its flaws is a timely reminder of what will be at stake in 2008. Go and see Sicko, take Moore's comparisons with other countries for what they are, but reflect on what sort of country we want here. National, like the US, will use health as a revenue gathering machine to make up for their cuts to taxation. Health should be solely about making people better, not making a buck. Unfortunately this is again the choice we will be facing in 2008.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Blowin in the Wind
Given todays weather I think the title is very appropriate!
Last night was Bob Dylan at Queens Wharf, pretty much kicked ass. Before the concert I had read a Chch Press review of his Christchurch gig, which highlighted how Bob doesnt really interact with his audience.... turns out thats true, although he did introduce the band at the end.... well kinda - "Meeh neh meh he from tennessee" sorta thing.
Anyway it was a great concert. His backing band ruled - the dude on lead guitar was fantastic - as Wayne and Garth would say - he could wail! It was kinda like five or six old dudes jamming the blues.
Lay Lady Lay was a highlight, as was My Back Pages and Highway 61 - but of course it was the very appropriate closing - Blowin in the Wind that stole the show for me.
Bob is still the epitome of cool!
Last night was Bob Dylan at Queens Wharf, pretty much kicked ass. Before the concert I had read a Chch Press review of his Christchurch gig, which highlighted how Bob doesnt really interact with his audience.... turns out thats true, although he did introduce the band at the end.... well kinda - "Meeh neh meh he from tennessee" sorta thing.
Anyway it was a great concert. His backing band ruled - the dude on lead guitar was fantastic - as Wayne and Garth would say - he could wail! It was kinda like five or six old dudes jamming the blues.
Lay Lady Lay was a highlight, as was My Back Pages and Highway 61 - but of course it was the very appropriate closing - Blowin in the Wind that stole the show for me.
Bob is still the epitome of cool!
Friday, August 10, 2007
A Question
Im a fan of the redevelopment of our major sporting facilities ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup and the 2015 Cricket World Cup, but I have a question.
Auckland's Eden Park is getting a big flash new Buck-Rogers-Stand and will be the main stadium during the Rugby, and the newly named AMI Stadium (Previously Jade/Lancaster Park) is also getting an Athfield designed new eastern stand (pictured).
The budget for Eden Park is approx NZD190 million. The budget for AMI Stadium is NZD60 million. Now granted the Eden Park stand is about 7000 seats bigger (24000 compared to 17000), but surely there can't be that much difference??
Why is there a NZD130 m difference between a Christchurch project and an Auckland one? This of course begs the question - why not get more bang for your buck and spend your NZD190m between Wellington and Christchurch? - you would get a hell of a lot more.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Clear choices
The chart below is taken from the 2decide.com site and covers the positions of the various candidates for the Presidency on several key issues including, abortion, Iraq etc etc.
The candidates to look out for are - Clinton, Obama and Edwards for the Dems and Giuliani, Thompson, and Romney for the GOP - the others will likely fade.
Click on it to make it bigger etc
The candidates to look out for are - Clinton, Obama and Edwards for the Dems and Giuliani, Thompson, and Romney for the GOP - the others will likely fade.
Click on it to make it bigger etc
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Luggage
Ive been meaning to put this down since the weekend, but hadnt got around to it - What is wrong with people?
Why do people insist on taking so much carry-on luggage on flights? Any flight you go on, I guarantee that half of those on board will have those small bags with the extendable handle and two wheels that they then have to force into the overhead locker - why not just check it on? What could you not possibly do without during the flight? They never seem get anything down mid flight - so why do you need it?
There's always that person too, who tries to roll their bag down the aisle - and it generally takes them till the fifth row before they realise the 30cm aisle gap isnt really wide enough for what they are trying to do.
Carry on luggage - its up there with comic-sans font for sheer annoyance factor
Why do people insist on taking so much carry-on luggage on flights? Any flight you go on, I guarantee that half of those on board will have those small bags with the extendable handle and two wheels that they then have to force into the overhead locker - why not just check it on? What could you not possibly do without during the flight? They never seem get anything down mid flight - so why do you need it?
There's always that person too, who tries to roll their bag down the aisle - and it generally takes them till the fifth row before they realise the 30cm aisle gap isnt really wide enough for what they are trying to do.
Carry on luggage - its up there with comic-sans font for sheer annoyance factor
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Money, money, money
Of late a few people "in the know" had talked up former Tennessee Senator and Law and Order TV star, Fred Thompson, as a real contender for the GOP presidential nomination, going so far as to say he could actually beat Clinton or Obama.
So I raised this with a few people including a friend of mine who is based in New York and works for a polling company - he put it bluntly - "he hasnt formally announced, and he doesnt have the cash. At the moment he has nothing." My initial thought was that, well once he announces, the cash will come - its not like there is a shortage of cash in the Republicans.
Last night Thompson's "exploratory committee" (its what you set up to lay the foundations for tilt at the nomination) announced what they had raised over their first two months - USD3 million. Now by our standards that would be enormous... but when Clinton has raised USD46m and Obama is in the 40s as well, Thompson is soooo far behind that it isnt funny. This is at a time when previous GOP favourite, Senator McCain's team is falling apart having only raised USD12m!
And while time is on Thompson's side - he's going to be pushing it up hill from here and will need to quickly build momentum.
I guess this leaves one huge problem for the Republicans - who else? Giuliani is too liberal (pro-choice, anti gun, pro gay) and allegedly has soo much crap in his closet he is going to have to do extensions. Mitt Romney is a hypocrite (pro choice while running for Governor in the liberal leaning state of Massachusetts/pro life now he is trying to woo the red necks) also (with due respect to certain readers) he is a mormon which doesnt go down well with many given its minority status (he also wears the underwear). John McCain is bleeding senior staff, who seem to be jumping ship, and he is strugling to raise money.
So it may be that Thompson comes through as the best of a bad bunch, but with the huge funding headstart that the Dems have, the GOP are going to have to really pick it up and unite behind a candidate to stay in the game. As an indication of how huge the Dem war chests are - USD20m was considered a "large" campaign in the 90s and early 2000s - as I said, both Clinton and Obama are plus 40m.
So I raised this with a few people including a friend of mine who is based in New York and works for a polling company - he put it bluntly - "he hasnt formally announced, and he doesnt have the cash. At the moment he has nothing." My initial thought was that, well once he announces, the cash will come - its not like there is a shortage of cash in the Republicans.
Last night Thompson's "exploratory committee" (its what you set up to lay the foundations for tilt at the nomination) announced what they had raised over their first two months - USD3 million. Now by our standards that would be enormous... but when Clinton has raised USD46m and Obama is in the 40s as well, Thompson is soooo far behind that it isnt funny. This is at a time when previous GOP favourite, Senator McCain's team is falling apart having only raised USD12m!
And while time is on Thompson's side - he's going to be pushing it up hill from here and will need to quickly build momentum.
I guess this leaves one huge problem for the Republicans - who else? Giuliani is too liberal (pro-choice, anti gun, pro gay) and allegedly has soo much crap in his closet he is going to have to do extensions. Mitt Romney is a hypocrite (pro choice while running for Governor in the liberal leaning state of Massachusetts/pro life now he is trying to woo the red necks) also (with due respect to certain readers) he is a mormon which doesnt go down well with many given its minority status (he also wears the underwear). John McCain is bleeding senior staff, who seem to be jumping ship, and he is strugling to raise money.
So it may be that Thompson comes through as the best of a bad bunch, but with the huge funding headstart that the Dems have, the GOP are going to have to really pick it up and unite behind a candidate to stay in the game. As an indication of how huge the Dem war chests are - USD20m was considered a "large" campaign in the 90s and early 2000s - as I said, both Clinton and Obama are plus 40m.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Unlikely but would be great
With all the speculation around what the Cabinet reshuffle will hold - here's my twopence. It isnt so much a prediction but more about what Id like to see!
Cabinet
1. Helen Clark - Prime Minister, Arts Culture and Heritage
2. Phil Goff - Deputy Prime Minister, Finance
3. Annette King - Education, State Services, Transport
4. Trevor Mallard - Leader of the House, Justice, Treaty Negotiations, Sport and Rec
5. David Cunliffe - Economic Development, Auckland Issues, Communications/IT
6. Ruth Dyson - Health
7. Pete Hodgson - Labour, SOEs, ACC, Broadcasting, Building Issues
8. Jim Anderton - Trade Negotiations
9. Clayton Cosgrove - Police, Defence, Corrections
10. Lianne Dalziel - Social Development and Employment
11. David Parker - Conservation, Environment, Energy
12. Damien O’Connor - Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry
13. Nanaia Mahuta - Maori Affairs, Youth Affairs, Customs
14. Chris Carter - Immigration, Ethnic Affairs, Senior Citizens, Disabilities
15. Shane Jones - Commerce, Tourism, Small Business
16. Steve Chadwick - Housing, Internal Affairs, Local Government
17. Maryan Street - Tertiary Education, Research Science & Technology, Food Safety, Archives, National Library
18. Charles Chauvel - Attorney General, Pacific Island Affairs, Land Information, Statistics
Outside Cabinet
19. Luamanuvao Winnie Laban - Community and Voluntary Sector, Women’s Affairs, Consumer Affairs, Associate PI Affairs
20. Harry Duynhoven - Transport Safety
21. Darren Hughes - Associate Economic and Regional Development, Associate Transport
22. Mahara Okeroa - Associate Arts, Associate Maori Affairs
What becomes of the broken hearted?
Steve Maharey - Chief Strategist, Labour Party President
Michael Cullen - Speaker of the House
Goneburgers
Wilson, Horomia, Burton, Barker, Benson-Pope, Tizard, Samuels, Ririnui
Of course this is purely fun and about what I would do - I would be hugely surprised if the reshuffle looked anything like this!
Cabinet
1. Helen Clark - Prime Minister, Arts Culture and Heritage
2. Phil Goff - Deputy Prime Minister, Finance
3. Annette King - Education, State Services, Transport
4. Trevor Mallard - Leader of the House, Justice, Treaty Negotiations, Sport and Rec
5. David Cunliffe - Economic Development, Auckland Issues, Communications/IT
6. Ruth Dyson - Health
7. Pete Hodgson - Labour, SOEs, ACC, Broadcasting, Building Issues
8. Jim Anderton - Trade Negotiations
9. Clayton Cosgrove - Police, Defence, Corrections
10. Lianne Dalziel - Social Development and Employment
11. David Parker - Conservation, Environment, Energy
12. Damien O’Connor - Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry
13. Nanaia Mahuta - Maori Affairs, Youth Affairs, Customs
14. Chris Carter - Immigration, Ethnic Affairs, Senior Citizens, Disabilities
15. Shane Jones - Commerce, Tourism, Small Business
16. Steve Chadwick - Housing, Internal Affairs, Local Government
17. Maryan Street - Tertiary Education, Research Science & Technology, Food Safety, Archives, National Library
18. Charles Chauvel - Attorney General, Pacific Island Affairs, Land Information, Statistics
Outside Cabinet
19. Luamanuvao Winnie Laban - Community and Voluntary Sector, Women’s Affairs, Consumer Affairs, Associate PI Affairs
20. Harry Duynhoven - Transport Safety
21. Darren Hughes - Associate Economic and Regional Development, Associate Transport
22. Mahara Okeroa - Associate Arts, Associate Maori Affairs
What becomes of the broken hearted?
Steve Maharey - Chief Strategist, Labour Party President
Michael Cullen - Speaker of the House
Goneburgers
Wilson, Horomia, Burton, Barker, Benson-Pope, Tizard, Samuels, Ririnui
Of course this is purely fun and about what I would do - I would be hugely surprised if the reshuffle looked anything like this!
Monday, July 30, 2007
Wellington Computer recycling day
On Saturday 29 September between 9am and 3pm you will be able to safely dump all your old computer/mobile phone gear.
The 2020 Communications Trust are running their annual recycling day at the Westpac Stadium carpark - so be a tidy kiwi!
The 2020 Communications Trust are running their annual recycling day at the Westpac Stadium carpark - so be a tidy kiwi!
Better late than never
I had a week off blogging last week - it wasnt intentional, just usual laziness but anyway, The film festival is of course on at the moment, and Ive seen three films (plus another non-festival film - unacceptable infidelity I know).
Last week I went and saw Wellington (represent yo) director, Taika Waititi's (of Two Cars/One Night fame) new film - Eagle vs Shark and god it was good. Granted, it is basically a NZ Napolean Dynamite - but fantastic all the same. Some of the Velvet paintings of Tigers, Sharks and Unicorns are definitely from the Rhodes school of design.... (i know the whole minimalism is really a cover for the velvet wall hangings). One of the best bits has to be the video game where there is a Maori warrior firing lasers from a Taiaha, or the "best computer hacker in town" who uses Windows 95 (with full YNANG YNANG warming up grinding and porn site pop ups) -"Theres porn on your computer bro".
Yesterday I did a back-to-back double feature - starting off with the disturbing Jesus Camp which was all about kids going off to be indoctrinated into fundamentalist christianity. Pretty scary stuff (Harry Potter = evil, Abortion = evil, Gays = evil and so on - you get the idea). On the whole it was pretty good, but at times the movie also tells you what to think - there is a radio interviewer rambling in parts providing bridging clips, telling us how fundys and bad, and George Bush is bad (they pray over a life size carboard cut out of him btw) etc etc. This was unecessary though - you couldnt help but arrive at those conclusions anyway - so why force it down peoples throats?
Watch the trailer
And lastly the second part of the double feature was Severance which has been billed as The Office meets Deliverance. Its about a group of seven or so office workers who go on a team-building exercise in the Hungarian wilderness. Obviously things go awry with people getting killed etc but its also pretty damn funny too. The best bit has to be when one of them gets caught in a gin trap - and they try unsuccessfully to free him by pulling it open, only for it to slam shut again..... five times.
Trailer here
On the whole three pretty good films out of three. Next up is Manufacturing Dissent on Wednesday which started off as a positive piece about Michael Moore - only to turn into quite a negative piece about him, the holes in his films etc etc. Im sure its as biased as well.... a Moore film but should be a good watch all the same!
Last week I went and saw Wellington (represent yo) director, Taika Waititi's (of Two Cars/One Night fame) new film - Eagle vs Shark and god it was good. Granted, it is basically a NZ Napolean Dynamite - but fantastic all the same. Some of the Velvet paintings of Tigers, Sharks and Unicorns are definitely from the Rhodes school of design.... (i know the whole minimalism is really a cover for the velvet wall hangings). One of the best bits has to be the video game where there is a Maori warrior firing lasers from a Taiaha, or the "best computer hacker in town" who uses Windows 95 (with full YNANG YNANG warming up grinding and porn site pop ups) -"Theres porn on your computer bro".
Yesterday I did a back-to-back double feature - starting off with the disturbing Jesus Camp which was all about kids going off to be indoctrinated into fundamentalist christianity. Pretty scary stuff (Harry Potter = evil, Abortion = evil, Gays = evil and so on - you get the idea). On the whole it was pretty good, but at times the movie also tells you what to think - there is a radio interviewer rambling in parts providing bridging clips, telling us how fundys and bad, and George Bush is bad (they pray over a life size carboard cut out of him btw) etc etc. This was unecessary though - you couldnt help but arrive at those conclusions anyway - so why force it down peoples throats?
Watch the trailer
And lastly the second part of the double feature was Severance which has been billed as The Office meets Deliverance. Its about a group of seven or so office workers who go on a team-building exercise in the Hungarian wilderness. Obviously things go awry with people getting killed etc but its also pretty damn funny too. The best bit has to be when one of them gets caught in a gin trap - and they try unsuccessfully to free him by pulling it open, only for it to slam shut again..... five times.
Trailer here
On the whole three pretty good films out of three. Next up is Manufacturing Dissent on Wednesday which started off as a positive piece about Michael Moore - only to turn into quite a negative piece about him, the holes in his films etc etc. Im sure its as biased as well.... a Moore film but should be a good watch all the same!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
George Martin
Ive been watching the Beatles Anthology and it reminded me of a skit on Big Train about George Martin going on and on and on about the Beatles. here goes.. very funny
This has to be a joke
China is to fire rockets into the sky to disperse rain clouds during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Apparently the Chinese Government guaranteed good weather.... and this is how theyre going to do it.
It reminds me of an episode of The Games when John Clarke offered to move the hole in the ozone layer for the duration of the Sydney Olympics ("out to sea or something") to appease European concerns over skin cancer and exposure to the sun.
Story on Stuff here about the Chinese. The headline is - China to zap rainclouds with rockets. Fantastic!
Apparently the Chinese Government guaranteed good weather.... and this is how theyre going to do it.
It reminds me of an episode of The Games when John Clarke offered to move the hole in the ozone layer for the duration of the Sydney Olympics ("out to sea or something") to appease European concerns over skin cancer and exposure to the sun.
Story on Stuff here about the Chinese. The headline is - China to zap rainclouds with rockets. Fantastic!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Further anniversary weekend goodness
Today we have a new anniversary weekend feature... albums of year*
This year we only have three that have made the cut as follows
Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare
Jarvis Cocker - The Jarvis Cocker Record
*To be eligible the album has to have been released between 16 July 2006 and 2007.
This year we only have three that have made the cut as follows
Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare
Jarvis Cocker - The Jarvis Cocker Record
*To be eligible the album has to have been released between 16 July 2006 and 2007.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Anniversary Weekend Top 50
As this weekend is of course Anniversary Weekend, its time for the annual Top 50 tracks!
50. Pulp, This is Hardcore
49. Belle and Sebastian, Act of the Apostle
48. Badly Drawn Boy, Once Around the Block
47. Beta Band, Dry the Rain
46. Elastica, Stutter
45. Ocean Colour Scene, Travellers Tune
44. Ben Harper, By My Side
43. Ocean Colour Scene, You've Got it Bad
42. Radiohead, High and Dry
41. Oasis, Do You Know What I Mean?
40. Smashing Pumpkins, 1979
39. Mazzy Star, Fade into You
38. Radiohead, Climbing Up the Walls
37. Belle and Sebastian, Boy with the Arab Strap
36. Ryan Adams, The End
35. Oasis, Songbird
34. The Smiths, This Charming Man
33. Ocean Colour Scene, The Day We Caught the Train
32. Blondie, Atomic
31. Ben Harper, Where Could I Go?
30. Aimee Mann, Save Me
29. The Beatles, Sexy Sadie
28. Johnny Cash, Hurt
27. The Beatles, Here Comes the Sun
26. Skunk Anansie, Hedonism
25. The Smiths, There is a Light that Never Goes Out
24. Arctic Monkeys, A Certain Romance
23. Ben Harper, Forgiven
22. Fleetwood Mac, Landslide
21. Ryan Adams, Blue Sky Blues
20. Pulp, Common People
19. The Flaming Lips, Do You Realise?
18. The Beatles, Blackbird
17. Radiohead, Street Spirit (Fade Out)
16. The Smiths, How Soon is Now
15. Marvin Gaye, Lets Get it On
14. Radiohead, Air Bag
13. Oasis, Live Forever
12. Nirvana, All Apologies
11. Radiohead, Creep
10. The Byrds, The Ballad of Easy Rider
9. Badly Drawn Boy, A Minor Incident
8. Oasis, Cigarettes and Alcohol
7. Marvin Gaye, What's Goin On
6. The Beatles, Two of Us
5. The Byrds, Eight Miles High
4. Aimee Mann, Wise Up
3. Radiohead, Pyramid Song
2. Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit
1. Oasis, Supersonic
50. Pulp, This is Hardcore
49. Belle and Sebastian, Act of the Apostle
48. Badly Drawn Boy, Once Around the Block
47. Beta Band, Dry the Rain
46. Elastica, Stutter
45. Ocean Colour Scene, Travellers Tune
44. Ben Harper, By My Side
43. Ocean Colour Scene, You've Got it Bad
42. Radiohead, High and Dry
41. Oasis, Do You Know What I Mean?
40. Smashing Pumpkins, 1979
39. Mazzy Star, Fade into You
38. Radiohead, Climbing Up the Walls
37. Belle and Sebastian, Boy with the Arab Strap
36. Ryan Adams, The End
35. Oasis, Songbird
34. The Smiths, This Charming Man
33. Ocean Colour Scene, The Day We Caught the Train
32. Blondie, Atomic
31. Ben Harper, Where Could I Go?
30. Aimee Mann, Save Me
29. The Beatles, Sexy Sadie
28. Johnny Cash, Hurt
27. The Beatles, Here Comes the Sun
26. Skunk Anansie, Hedonism
25. The Smiths, There is a Light that Never Goes Out
24. Arctic Monkeys, A Certain Romance
23. Ben Harper, Forgiven
22. Fleetwood Mac, Landslide
21. Ryan Adams, Blue Sky Blues
20. Pulp, Common People
19. The Flaming Lips, Do You Realise?
18. The Beatles, Blackbird
17. Radiohead, Street Spirit (Fade Out)
16. The Smiths, How Soon is Now
15. Marvin Gaye, Lets Get it On
14. Radiohead, Air Bag
13. Oasis, Live Forever
12. Nirvana, All Apologies
11. Radiohead, Creep
10. The Byrds, The Ballad of Easy Rider
9. Badly Drawn Boy, A Minor Incident
8. Oasis, Cigarettes and Alcohol
7. Marvin Gaye, What's Goin On
6. The Beatles, Two of Us
5. The Byrds, Eight Miles High
4. Aimee Mann, Wise Up
3. Radiohead, Pyramid Song
2. Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit
1. Oasis, Supersonic
Thursday, July 12, 2007
A bold prediction
Right so we're about 12-14 months out from the next election and currently the Nats are unquestionably in pole position with a good 15 point lead. However its my feeling that their lead will only hold up until they start releasing their fundamental policy positions ie will we have cash registers back in hospitals? will they scrap the KiwiSaver tax credits? what state assets will they sell off? will we have widespread roadtolls? (in Sydney for example average car users can pay around A$100 a week in tolls - so will the Nats reduce taxes but slap on new ones in the form of tolls? will that make anyone better off?) what happens with interest free student loans? and so on and so forth. At some point they will have to release policy.
I think in all likelihood National will be the largest party, but there is an element of over-inflation in their polling.
So what will happen? Here's my prediction for the election night result in 2008
National 43 per cent (51 seats)
Labour 38 per cent (46 seats)
Greens 8 per cent (10 seats)
NZ First 5 per cent (6 seats)
Maori Party 2.5 per cent (5 seats - they will win Te Tai Tonga as well as their current 4)
ACT 1.5 per cent (2 seats)
United Future 1 per cent (1 seat)
Progressive 0.8 per cent (1 seat)
So this is how it will line up (total seats 122)
LEFT
Labour (46) + Greens (10) + Progressive (1) = 57 seats
RIGHT
National (51) + ACT (2) = 53 seats
CENTRE
NZ First (6) + Maori (5) + United Future (1) = 12 seats
The simplest government would be Labour + Greens + NZ First + Progressive (63 seats).
The key thing for the remainder of the year and early next year is Labour staying competitive. For me 35 per cent is the crunch point. If they are below it - theyre goneburger. If they are above it and in the late 30s, its game on.
I think in all likelihood National will be the largest party, but there is an element of over-inflation in their polling.
So what will happen? Here's my prediction for the election night result in 2008
National 43 per cent (51 seats)
Labour 38 per cent (46 seats)
Greens 8 per cent (10 seats)
NZ First 5 per cent (6 seats)
Maori Party 2.5 per cent (5 seats - they will win Te Tai Tonga as well as their current 4)
ACT 1.5 per cent (2 seats)
United Future 1 per cent (1 seat)
Progressive 0.8 per cent (1 seat)
So this is how it will line up (total seats 122)
LEFT
Labour (46) + Greens (10) + Progressive (1) = 57 seats
RIGHT
National (51) + ACT (2) = 53 seats
CENTRE
NZ First (6) + Maori (5) + United Future (1) = 12 seats
The simplest government would be Labour + Greens + NZ First + Progressive (63 seats).
The key thing for the remainder of the year and early next year is Labour staying competitive. For me 35 per cent is the crunch point. If they are below it - theyre goneburger. If they are above it and in the late 30s, its game on.
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