Paper aeroplanes

Starting my weekend off from work by making a paper aeroplane for my two sons.  I used to know how to make them with paper, sticks, bamboos, gum and thread.  But I guess I haven't utilised the skill and been out of practise for more than 50 years!  Just look at what my nearly 7-year-old son has made---a futuristic type of aircraft.  I see some similarities with the ones he's watched on video like Star Wars, etc. But the ones I used to make were simple and I particularly remember this one wherein I just folded the side of the paper and put a string on it, to make it fly like a kite.

Modern technology has allowed my sons to visualise what they want to make or build by looking/watching at YouTube, follow the instructions and voila create their own.  It's gratifying for my family to see that my sons are not enslaved by technology.  They are creative enough to make new things out of what they've seen.  And when the technology is not working, they can still create the old fashioned way of using their minds and imagination.

Lessons learned: its not the design but the time spent making the paper aeroplane that's important---it's family bonding time through paper aeroplanes. The paper planes I made may and did not fly, but the time and love we've shared will fly forever!

World No-Tobacco Day

May 31 has been declared by the United Nations as World No-Tobacco Day.  I've quit smoking 14 years ago after going from cigarettes to cigar and ending with pipe tobacco for nearly 15 years.  This year's theme is Raise Tobacco Tax, Lower Death and Disease.

Although 'smokes' are quite expensive here in NZ, it has not deterred people from getting into the habit.  I see very young people, even kids, puffing away.  Age and gender doesn't matter when it comes to smoking.  And it goes for the sickness and disease too.  Young and old, male and female gets sick and die from smoking.  I read somewhere that even those who are not smoking, gets sick and may die from what is known as 'second-hand smoking.'  It may only be me, but as a former smoker, I really get irritated with people who don't give a care whether their smoke invades my space.

I think this country is trying to be 'smoke-free' by 2020, which is a just a mere 6 years away.  Can we do it?  Is it possible?  We'll have to test the 'if there's a will there's a way' concept to the limit.

It's nearly the end of May 2014

Without you knowing it, the month of May is just about to end.  And officially it will be winter here in New Zealand.  The days and nights are getting colder and wetter.  Warm clothing is a must---the more layers the better. But there are still things and events that you can do even with this kind of weather.

I met two Kiwis today, a father (60s) and son (mid 30s) who were out in the shed cleaning the various kinds of fish that they caught.  They started out on a boat at the crack of dawn and were able to catch a sizable number of fish.  They had snapper with the correct size and number as required by law, kahwai and some other species.  They had filleted them and kept the fish heads too.  I remember in the past when Kiwis didn't really like fish heads.  But with the influx of other cultures who are found of fish heads, they are now sold in supermarkets.

Asked why they ventured out to sea on a cold nearly wintry day, both were affirmative that it was their way of bonding with each other.  With their very busy lives they haven't seen and been with each other for quite sometime.  And that was my wow moment for today!

National Pet Month

The UK is celebrating National Pet Month.  Kiwis being known as pet lovers and with most people feeling a close affinity with the UK, this celebration should be observed here too.

I am truly amazed by the amount of space that supermarkets devote to pet supplies.  There is a huge variety of products, supplies and services available.  I grew up in a house filled with all kinds of pets: we had 5-8 dogs, 3 cats, chickens, rabbits, pigs, as well as fish together with turtles and seahorse in an aquarium.  I also grew up not knowing any better about pet health.  Here in NZ, I would like to take care of a dog or two.  I've always been partial to dogs.  However, I feel that having a dog is just like having another child in the family.  It will also entail the same costs of feeding, clothing and going to the vet.

Blessie Gotingco

Media is all over the case of the missing and now murdered Filipino woman Blessie Gotingco.  She is the news.  From the moment it was discovered that she was missing, the police and media had been on top of her case.  In NZ, cases like this are rare, maybe that's why it has attracted a lot of attention not only from media but ordinary people.

She came from a country where incidents like this are common.  But for this to happen in a safe haven like NZ, one has to think, is NZ really safe now?  In the past my Kiwi friends would regale me with stories about leaving their doors unlocked and nothing would be missing or happening to them or their belongings.  It is laudable however, that the efficiency of the police has lead to the swift capture of the perpetrator of Blessie's death.

I do hope that those people who are fond of equating anything negative to migrants and migration will not use this unfortunate event for their own personal advancement.  For now, we offer our prayers and condolences to all the loved ones that are left to carry on.

Mark Twain's Quote on Politicians

I really don't know the context behind what Mark Twain was quoted as saying that "politicians and diapers must be changed often, and for the same reason."  Did he have a terrible time dealing with politicians?  I've been trying to do a bit of research about this but I just couldn't find any affirmation on this quote.  It is a great quote for people aspiring for public office, and a cheeky way to get the attention of voters.

It is a great quote though, that speaks volumes!  I've seen on the web certain personalities and politicians using this quote in their speeches.  It does make for a good conversation piece and with the media landscape nowadays, media handlers for politicians can use this to make for a good sound bite.

Q&A - Nikki Kaye, MP (National)

It's always refreshing to see Nikki Kaye the MP for Auckland Central.  I don't know her personally but she was gracious enough to answer my Q&A.  Thank you for that Nikki.  She walks the talk as the Youth Affairs Minister.  She could be the poster girl for the youth of this country.

With parliamentary elections coming up in September 20, this lady has a proven track record under her from 2008 when she was first elected and again in 2011 when she was reelected.  Her focus on digital literacy is a welcome one if New Zealand wants to excel in the digital landscape.

Q: What's your proudest achievement up to this moment?
A: Taking through Cabinet a package of funding of over $200 million to enable every state school in New Zealand offered uncapped fast crown funded Internet connections.

Q: Name 3 people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with and why?
A: Hillary Clinton - to try and understand one of the most competent, female, political leaders.  My Uncle Hamish who died before I was born - so I could meet the man that died so young, did so much and continues to be adored by everyone in my family.  Forever loved.  Elvis - it would be a great fun dinner with wonderful soul music and good Southern food.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: Cat person - it's in the genes.  My mum and grandmother love cats too.

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: Great Barrier Island - because the people and land have no pretence, it is just untapped raw beauty.  It is breathtakingly rugged, beautiful and very peaceful.  One Barrier sleep is worth at least a week.

Q: Something not many people know about you?
A: I love gherkin and cheese sandwiches.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where/when would it be, and why?
A: Ancient Athens for many reasons - because they established the first democracy, and further developed legal systems.  I would love to meet Shakespeare and JFK too.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: To make the greatest difference I can and help the most people.  I think that will lead me to many different places.

Hamilton Press

The Hamilton Press is delivered for free in most homes in Hamilton city.  This popular and well read community newspaper comes out every Wednesday and is a perfect venue to reach your local target market.  It has an audited circulation of 58,091.  It's compact size is quite handy for carrying and reading.

When I was still supporting youth with intellectual disabilities in the city, I used to accompany several boys in doing their paper run.  They placed them inside the mailbox together with circulars and other flyers.  I also helped them doing this and they were quick to point out to me the mailboxes that says "Please No Circulars" when they missed out in placing a paper there.  I had to always remind them that the Hamilton Press is a newspaper and not a circular, and that is was OK to put them in the mail boxes.

So the next time you get a copy of the Hamilton Press, please give a thought to the young boys who go out every Wednesday in rain, sun and sleet to put it in your mail boxes.

Weak mobile phone signal

I was recently assigned to a new house just outside Hamilton city, probably less than 10 minutes drive going towards Morrinsville and Cambridge.  Our role is to support youth with intellectual disabilities, 24/7.  There are times when I'm assigned to do a sleepover.  And when I'm inside the house there's no signal from my mobile phone.  I have to go outside to get a clear signal from my service provider.  I don't mind if it's during the day but at night it's such a great hassle to get up and go out, and it's practically freezing this time of the year.  And it's not even winter yet!

Winter is just 'round the corner

The nights and days are getting from colder to chillier.  The workplace where I'm presently assigned at is in a farm just outside the city of Hamilton, going towards Cambridge.  In the late afternoons, I can see the fog slowly creeping in from the Kaimai Ranges and by the time I finish work at around 9pm, the fog is thick as!  When I do my sleepovers, I can feel the cold getting through my thermal wear.  And one time I was up and about by 6am, I went outside and the fog was so thick I could hardly see the farmer's wife with her dogs going through the strawberry and blueberry farm right in front of the house. Life in the farm, is so much easier and to think we're only less than 10 minutes away from the city.

We're All The Same

I have this funny hobby or habit of collecting quotations and/or sayings, specially better if it's graphic or there's a picture that goes with it. From this posting onwards, I will share with you what I have discovered or collected. These things have intrigued, fascinated, attracted, challenged and moved me. Some of them are quite simple and universal in nature, that makes me wonder "why haven't I thought of that?"  Here is the very first one: at the very essence of ourselves, we are all the same.

Road Safety Awareness Week

This week is NZ Road Safety Awareness Week.  The picture I chose is a 1964 stamp promoting the idea of safety on our roads.  However, the idea doesn't seem to resonate with present day Kiwis.  50 years on and road safety related death toll keeps on rising.  What's going on?  I guess the government isn't remiss in reminding people about the need for road safety.  I still am horrified to hear of people who figure in road accidents and not wearing seat belts.  For me, putting on a seat belt should be automatic, like looking at the mirror to see if you're pretty or handsome.  You do that everyday and every time right?  Why not carry on and do that too with your seat belt?  Please don't be a pain, by joining the statistics of road safety deaths.  You're capable of doing better!

Look who's back!

I woke up to a chilly morning.  Went outside to warm-up the car and saw that it was going to be a foggy morning!  I had a feeling it was going to be like this when I was driving home from work around 9pm.  We're on the last few days of Autumn and Winter is just 'round the corner.  Have you had your flu jabs and all the other necessary medical precautions in anticipation of the cold and whatever else winter brings?  I know of some people who don't get these flu jabs, letting their natural immunity and resistance combat these winter-related sickness.  Well, good on them!  I'm still a bit ambivalent about the flu jabs, and have had an on and off relationship with it.

Rugby, Warriors vs. Bulldogs

After nearly 6 years in NZ, I finally got the chance to watch live, my first rugby game.  A perk in this job of supporting youth with intellectual disability is the opportunity to be with them wherever they are.  I've been inside a classroom, movie house, restaurant, the zoo, gymnasium, swimming pool, and today the rugby field at the Waikato Stadium.  I was one of the more than 17,673 fans of the game between the Vodafone Warriors and the Canterbury Bulldogs.  It was a very informative and educational afternoon for me.

At times I felt more excited than the boys I was supporting.  It was worth the $37 ticket that the company paid for.  In the air was the natural friendly banter between Kiwis (Warriors) and Aussies (Bulldogs).  The blue and white clad supporters of the Bulldogs were as animated and boisterous as the variously-hued supporters of the Warriors.  The atmosphere that afternoon reminded me of the gladiators and coliseums of ancient Rome.  Roaring for an attack and moaning when deflected.

Now I understand why Kiwis are so passionate about rugby.  All the elements are present: huge and supportive crowd, flashy plays by the players (some of them even looked like moviestar-material, flamboyant and physically brute), a massive stadium, and the spectators came from all sectors of society, young, old, couples, singles, foreigners, children and even babies.  Watching a game was, is and will always be a family outing, specially on a nippy May afternoon.

Pokeno Market

This is a country market held every Sunday from 8am to around 1-2pm in a large paddock in Pokeno.  It is known by many names Pokeno Country Market, Pokeno Market, and Franklin Country Market @ Pokeno.  The number of times I've been there has always been chock-full of people from Auckland, Hamilton and all the nearby environs.

The goods, products and services found in Pokeno is no different from those found in other farmers/country markets.  I guess it is the ambiance that attracts people to this part of the country.  Its not too far from the big city, Auckland, at the same it is far enough to retain its own rural character.  A must-do when you're here is to savour the only-in-Pokeno flavours of TipTop ice cream.  In truth, I've seen families just drive-in for that and didn't even go to the market.

I won't go into the different flavours because you have to visually see them in anticipation of that satisfying feeling of having an ice cream even on a cold nearly winter day.

Te Awa The Base

I was at Hamilton's largest mall today in support of my youth with intellectual disability who wanted to buy a suit for the school ball.  The Te Awa Retail Shopping Centre area used to be a military camp, hence the term The Base.  This covered shopping centre has a large selection of fashion and major brands like Farmers, Witchery, Wild Pair, Michael Hill, Dunkin' Donuts and many more, plus Hoyts Flagship Cinema featuring the largest silver screen in NZ.  The architectural design took into consideration Waikato Tainui's rich cultural history.

One selling factor of the place is the over 3,000 FREE parking space that easily attracts a sizable crowd specially on weekends.  In any shopping centre there is always a food court that is always packed with people eating, talking and bonding with the family.  There are other amenities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible: an outdoor children's playground, baby changing facilities, free wheelchairs and prams.  There is even free shopping shuttle to take you and your bags back to your car.

I guess the rent for places like this must be high because the suit we wanted was well out of the price range of my high school student.  At the end of the day, we decided to go further down the road to a place called SaveMart where we got all that was needed at an affordable price.  Te Awa will still be the place to go to for quality and durability.

Kiwi 3x3 Basketball Challenge

The Kiwi 3x3 Basketball Challenge is kicking off with the Founder's Cup on 31 May 2014 at the YMCA-Hamilton gym from 10am-2pm.  The 3x3 style of playing basketball is a growing sport worldwide.  In the beginning it was played mainly as a leisure game, with no specific rules, the players making the rules to play.  It is also directly linked to urban culture which is very popular among younger players.  I believe this sport is really great for younger players 9-15 years old.  With this style of basketball, you get to hold the ball more often and that gives you more chances in trying to shoot the ball into the hoop.

Our primary purpose in coming up with this league is to nurture, promote and develop character building through 3x3 basketball.  There are 4 categories this year: U11, U13, U15, and a girl's team.  This is the start of a series of tournaments every month with the monthly winners going for the overall championship in December 2014.  Trophies and valuable prizes are at stake.

According to the New Zealand Institute of Sport, basketball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country.  And this will only increase in popularity from now on with the glowing performance of Steven Adams in the NBA and the forthcoming World Basketball Cup in Barcelona when the New Zealand Tall Blacks will play in the group with Team USA.

Good luck to all the players, coaches, managers, supporters, friends, and most of all the parents.  Let the games begin!

Q&A - Tim MacIndoe, MP (National)

Tim MacIndoe is the MP of Hamilton West.  We both share something in common, we're both from Hamilton and last year I moved over to the West side of the city.  That means I'm his constituent.  I've met him a couple of times in community gatherings and has always been impressed by his quiet ways.

I see him as a person with a solid foundation, good family background, a good husband to Anne and a good father to two girls, in fact whenever I see him in person or on TV, he's the poster boy for Mister Parenthood!  Hands down he will also win as Father of the Year!  Come to think of it, I'm beginning to equate with Steve Martin from one of my favourite movie, the 1991 classic Father of the Bride.

Q: What's your proudest achievement up to this moment?
A: Personally: With my wife, raising two well-rounded, intelligent, lovely daughters.  I am very proud of them both (and I'm a besotted dad!).  Professionally: Helping some of my constituents to gain positive outcomes in issues that were causing them major challenges, grief or anxiety.  For confidentiality reasons, I can't name them, but gaining good results for them has been hugely rewarding.

Q: Name 3 people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: Mahatma Gandhi---his personal life, experiences and example have always moved me.  My paternal grandmother.  She died before I was born and I'd love to have known her and to ask about my father as a child, etc.  C.S. Lewis---a humble, intelligent and faithful man.  His books are always worth reading.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: Dog---because I grew up with them and always enjoyed having them around.  (But we had a lovely cat a few years ago and I still miss her).

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: My home in Hamilton.  Especially when all my family are there and I have a moment to relax, or when I am able to spend some time in the garden with my wife.  I also love anywhere near the sea with great views, few people and plenty of wildlife.

Q: Something not many people know about you.
A: I used to teach night classes in Christchurch Women's Prison.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: Jerusalem when Jesus was alive and teaching.  I think that would be an amazing experience---and would help to answer lots of questions that arise in today's society!

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: To retain my seat on 20 September 2014!  After that, to be a diligent and effective MP, to aim for further promotion and to try to get some balance in my professional and private life as my family will always be the most important part of my life---and I want to be able to enjoy them long after my political career is over.

I really don't know yet if I'll vote for him this coming elections.  But I'm beginning to see a clearer picture of him.  Good luck Tim!

NZ Music Month

May is celebrated as New Zealand Music Month.  It is around this time that we get to hear specially on radio playing more tunes created by Kiwi artists.  The playlists have more local artists and even features on new and upcoming acts.  It is a great month to be a Kiwi on radio!  It is also a good feeling to have before the biting cold of winter gets to us.  In my radio show on Free FM 89.0 Waikato, although it only comes out once a week, I still try to play a tune or two in support of NZ Music Month.

I've always loved radio, listening to it and working in it.  It is a passion that I've had since I was a young boy who witnessed the birth of a radio station, from the ground up, right beside our house.  Those were AM radio times then that needed a tall steel tower to radiate power and reach.  I've seen how the tower was slowly put up, the old-fashioned way, manually.

Some quarters believe that radio is dead or dying.  I don't think so, as long as songwriters create music and the singers interpret them, radio will live on.  And isn't it that "music is a universal language?"  It's universality will keep it alive.  Long live NZ Music Month or much better long live NZ Music!

Filipino Migrant News

The Festival a new show on TV 3 will showcase a little bit of the Philippines airing on May 17 at 10:25am.  This will be the 2nd episode in this 10-part series taking an authentic look of NZ's different ethnic communities.

Tune in on that day as Filipino Migrant News brings the beauty, pageantry and taste of the Philippines!  Mel Fernandez (publisher) and Sheila Mariano (editor) are the dynamic duo behind this amazing project.  For a number of years now they have been responsible for documenting and reporting on the news, issues, features events and personalities of the Filipino communities in NZ.  With this new development, they have set the pace for mainstream NZ media to finally recognise that the Filipinos in NZ have a wonderful, colourful and fantastic culture ready to share with all Kiwis.

Special Olympics - Basketball

Yesterday, the Special Olympics Waikato held its first basketball tournament at the YMCA-Hamilton gym.  The nearly 150 players came from seven cities.  These players were young people and adults with an intellectual disability.

It was so heartwarming to see the players give their all.  I know some of them and I've seem them practise for one hour every Wednesday night since the start of this year.  Not only were they playing hard ball, they were also enjoying every minute of the sport.  At the end of the day, that is what we should see happen to these kids and adults---enjoying the company of their peers and friends, savouring the camaraderie that goes with the sport, and able to feel the pain of a lost game and the joy of a winning game!

Everyone who participated went home with multicoloured ribbons as their prize for the tournament.  yesterday was only the beginning of a year-long tournament in different cities of the North Island.  Next stop on May 25, will be at Howick-Pakuranga.  For sure, I will be there too.

Happy Mother's Day

She has many names: mother, nanay, mama, mommy, inang, mum, madre, mother dear, matka, mere, mader, mudra, mor, mater, nanang, mujka, mom, mutter, mamang, moeder, inay, and supermom.  They all mean the same: God's greatest gift to humanity!

Today is the 2nd Sunday of May and it's Mother's Day! It is a day of celebration for all mothers, motherhood and maternal bonds.  There is always something deeper when it comes to women.  We even call our planet Mother Earth.  This honouring and celebration has been ongoing for thousands of years.  The importance of our mothers is of great importance across many cultures.

However, it is the modern 20th century creation that is more commonly observed now.  Of course, the commercial undertones of this day has not been lost to advertisers, sellers and marketers of goods and services.  Just look at the endless promos and sales offered on this day, and even days prior and after.

Amidst all the celebrations, activities, festivities, shopping, and eating---let's not the forget the true essence of this day.  Happy Mother's Day!

It's Not Even Winter Yet

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We who live in the Southern Hemisphere are starting to feel the cold of the coming winter.  And it's not even winter yet.  Our NZ autumn stretches from March to May.  We're supposed to have cooler and settled weather but it isn't so.  Cooler yes, however we're experiencing extremes in terms of rain.  We've had places specially in the South Island with massive flooding because of the heavy rainfall.  Looking at the images on the news I'm reminded of scenes back home.

One thing I like about autumn is the vibrant colours of red, gold, orange, and the array of seasonal fruits apples, avocado, grapes, kiwifruit, mandarins, nashi, oranges, passion fruit, pears, and plums.  But the best fruit for me right now are the feijoas.  They remind me so much of the guavas of my youth!

This is also a great time to get out and visit the countryside to experience NZ's many cycling and walking trails, visit vineyards and taste the best produce at numerous farmers market.  I've started on the last bit and hopefully get to do the first and second too before autumn is over.  This country is like a great canvas of beauty and nature.  Right now is the best time to go out there and add to that canvas!

Building a house

They say a house is our castle.  It really doesn't matter whether it's built of stone, wood, grass, palm, steel or any other material suitable for building.  It still will be something that will be treasured for a long time.  It is every migrant's dream to eventually own a house.  Real estate is a long-term investment and the value of the land normally goes up.  You're never wrong when you invest in a house and lot.  ConsumerBuild is a good website if you're thinking of building a house in NZ.


Building a house makes me think of singing the song by Dionne Warwick's "A House is Not a Home."  My financial status right now is not yet up to par in building a house.  I need at least a 20% down payment as well as some cash equity for the bank to even take an interest in me.


For now, I'm happy accompanying my wife who has to make weekly visits to construction sites in line with her Interior Design studies.  In this way I can get as much information as I can until the time comes for me to build my own castle.  At least, I have a home!

Q&A - Phil Goff, MP (Labour)

In my quest to present as much information about our MPs, I've sent emails to many of them. But only a few were gracious enough to answer.  Phil Goff from the Labour Party is one of them.  I haven't met him personally, I only know him from what I see on TV.

I almost always count on my gut feel in most things, people included.  That's just me.  I know it's not scientific but hey, it's my opinion, it's my perception, it's how I visualise people and things.  When I see someone there is always that inner feeling that guides me to either believe or not the person.  So far, with Phil Goff, I see no reason not to believe him.  Here's my Q&A with him:

Q: What's your proudest achievement up to this moment?
A: In political terms the negotiation and signing of the China Free Trade Agreement, which has contributed to New Zealand exports to China going from $2.5 billion to $10 billion in just six years.

Q: Name three people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi and Ed Hillary because they were all people with great achievements but real humility who worked hard to make life better for other people.  Actually I did have dinner several times with Ed Hillary when we were together on a visit to Antarctica in 2007.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: A dog person.  I have two --- a Jack Russell and a Huntaway.  They are good companions, loyal, you can take them for walks, use them to help round up farm animals and they have a lot of character.

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: We have a humble old fashioned bach, a holiday home at Orere Point on the Hauraki Gulf.  It has a beautiful view over the Gulf to the Coromandels, is peaceful, simple, unpretentious and I can catch fish and gather shellfish.

Q: Something not many people know about you?
A: I ride horses and like gardening.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: The mid 1930s in New Zealand when the First Labour Government had just been elected and set about transforming New Zealand to lift people out of poverty, give them security and started to build a better New Zealand at home and take an independent stance in the world.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: To keep working 80 hour weeks to get a Labour Government elected on September 20, 2014.

Thank you Mr. Phil Goff for agreeing to this Q&A interview.  Good luck in the  forthcoming elections.

Julie Hardaker, Mayor

Today as I was dropping-off my wife and daughter in the Hamilton CBD, who should I see, walking all by herself, lugging a big bag and hugging a pile of folders, but Hamilton City's Mayor, Julie Hardaker.  Looking at her photo which I liberally lifted from her website, what an infectious smile!


I've met her personally several times---a couple of official functions and one I can distinctly remember being up-close-and-personal in a community gathering.  I can still remember her taking a photo of us in her mobile phone.  Was it a selfie?  I don't know because there were several of us with her in the photo.  How I wish I could ask the mayor for a copy of our group photo in her mobile phone.  Does she delete photos or saves them for posterity?  That would be interesting to know!


This beautiful, tall, dynamic, remarkable and extraordinary Mayor is now on her second term.  I'll not talk about her being a politician, her track record or anything that's already publicly available if you just search the Internet.  All I can say is that she will listen to you intently, as I witnessed her doing in one of those break-out sessions conducted by the Hamilton City Council.  I was that person talking about entrepreneurship and education for migrants.


The few times I've seen her she dresses simply but elegantly---power dressing, that's the word, so 1980s.  She was a lawyer before entering politics, that might explain the power dressing part.  I'd love to someday see her in jeans or something more casual.  And I'd love to do a Q&A with her too.


I so admire a person who wields power but does not show it, nor flaunt it.  What no bodyguards or security detail?  And what was she doing walking towards her office?  Not even a parking space specially reserved for the mayor?  Now that's power!


That's how politics is in NZ.  I've seen councillors, mayors, ministers, and MPs driving their own cars, moving without fanfare and the usual caboodle.  I grew up in a country where even the lowliest local politician has his/her own coterie of security people and cabal of supporters.


I might even run for public office.  I heard Kim Dotcom's Internet party is looking for candidates in the coming elections this September.  Now that's an interesting thought!

Illegal Highs

Legal highs will be illegal in New Zealand as of Thursday, 8 May 2014.  Parliament has just passed the Psychoactive Substances Amendment Act.  The Act is expected to receive Royal assent on Wednesday, 7 May and become law the following day.  This was a quick response to a popular clamour from people all over NZ.  I've come from far and wide to get away from the problems caused by drugs.  I'm very glad that the Government has seen the light of day and for a change has listened to the voice of the people.

Q&A - Maricel Weischede (NZ Immigration Help Service Ltd.)

Maricel Weischede is the Founder and Managing Director of the NZ Immigration Help Service Limited (NZIHS), a professional immigration consultancy company, with its head office in Auckland and branches in key cities in the Philippines. Immigration consultants/agents have to be licensed in order for them to practise.  This guarantees that potential migrants will not be duped.  Maricel is in the unique position of adding and contributing to the country's economy by facilitating the entry of skilled migrants and international students.

Q: What's the inspiration behind your business?
A: When I started NZIHS, there was no business intent but rather the noble desire to help.  I found myself helping a few people with their queries, doubts and uncertainty in 2004, which morphed into being a full time desire to make significance in other people's lives.  I am inspired to do good and make a difference in other people's lives.  When I see people succeed, I am triumphant.

Q: What has been a challenge while building your business and how did you manage it?
A: I started 10 years ago, it is the same period when I was building my young family so the challenges are trying to manage the demands of family life with domestic concerns, with building the business and career.  I managed it with having a good support system, like my parents and siblings who allowed to travel overseas, spend significant time working and assurance that they're behind me; My husband who have given me the space to study further qualifications in immigration, law and the like, and supported me directly by joining me after a few years.  He has provided the business the solid operations and organisational support and more importantly, by being blessed with people.  My NZIHS team who have helped me through achieve what I have built through the years.

Q: Name three people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: I want to have dinner with Bo Sanchez and just spend significant time listening and praying with me.  I listen to him almost every night and it would be an honour to have an exclusive dinner with him.  I also want to have dinner with my Grandma, who passed away when I was 9 years old.  I feel the urge to have an adult conversation with her and tell her how in my young age (before she died), she influenced me to do exceptionally good in whatever I desire.  Lastly and more importantly, I want to have the opportunity to have a meal with God casually and thank him for all that He has given me.  I want to be able to embrace Him afterwards and tell Him how grateful I am for everything.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: I love cats but not as a pet.  Thus, I confine my fancy to Hello Kitty.  I have three dogs: one choco-brown Labrador named Daisy and two Chihuahua's named Jack 'n Jill.  In the Philippines, I have an askal called Muning.  I love dogs because I love loyalty, I love stability and they are like families.

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: I go to Bombay Convent to have a silent retreat for a day or two.  I do this every year, twice if I needed to.  This makes me sane.  The opportunity of being away from the buzz gives me time to step back, look things from afar, reflect, pray and just sit still and let inspiration and plans flow.

Q: Something not many people know about you?
A: I am shy.  I love seeing other people succeed.  I rejoice with happy endings.  I am a cry baby.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: I love the medieval time.  I love to be able to walk through that era.  I want to see how it was before and make a significant contribution that people (now) would look back now.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: Finish my law degree.  Do corporate/commercial/family law.  Train future immigration advisers who would like to help genuinely.

The contact details of NZ Immigration Help Service Ltd. are:
20 Highfields Terrace, Henderson Heights, Auckland, NZ 0612
Phone: +64 9 8364935 and +64 9 8364940
Fax: +64 9 8364932
Toll Free within NZ: 0800 NZ1 HELP
Email: newzealand@nzimmigrationhelpservice.com

Back to school for Term Two

I was back inside the classroom today, as Support Staff for youth with intellectual disabilities.  It's back to school for primary, intermediate and secondary students in NZ.  Term Two will be shorter just nine weeks compared to the 12 weeks of Term One.  The 25-minute drive back and forth to Hamilton was a refreshing one, made more so by the constant rain.  I can almost hear the parched earth welcoming the rain.

Star Wars Day

Today, May 4, is an unofficial holiday created by Star Wars fans to honour the franchise created by George Lucas for films, books and culture.  It seems that this date was chosen because it sounds similar to the famous phrase "May the force be with you" to sound like "May the fourth be with you."

If I only knew about this earlier, I would have dressed my kids and myself into Star Wars-themed costumes.  Unfortunately, I only found out about it when I flicked on the TV news, and I'm out now working.  Well, now I know, and will definitely prepare for next year's Star Wars Days!

World Press Freedom Day

The United Nations has declared that May 3 be celebrated as World Press Freedom Day.  The theme for 2014 is "Media Freedom for a Better Future: Shaping the Post-2015 Development Agenda."  But how free is the press really?  Yes, we're free here in NZ but in other parts of the world, specially in the developing countries, journalists are killed, tortured, imprisoned, harassed, intimidated and silenced.  A case in point are the three journalists of the Al-Jazeera Network kept in prison in an Egyptian jail for more than 100 days now.  No amount of pressure from anyone could budge the Egyptian authorities to free these journalists.  And if it can be done to those working for a reputable media organisation like Al-Jazeera, what more to the lesser known journalists and media companies.

Yes, we're free here in NZ.  In the 2014 World Press Freedom Index, we're at #9 out of 180 countries.  The top 10 are: Finland, Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Denmark, Iceland, New Zealand, and Sweden.  This is a good indicator of New Zealand's media outfits enjoying their press freedom.  It was Spiderman who said that "with great power, comes great responsibilities."  The recent exposes from high government officials is just one more indicator that in NZ, journalists are not afraid to follow thru with their investigations and reports even if it involves these types of officials.


For an ordinary citizen like me, this is of great comfort for us, knowing that the truth will always set us free."

Bananas appeal to Kiwis

On any given day, in a veggie shop, dairy or the supermarket, you will find heaps of people buying bananas.  The ones we find in NZ usually come from the Philippines (71%) or Ecuador (29%).  Unlike Australia, we can't grow bananas in our backyards, so hence the importation of this tropical fruit.  It's quite interesting to note that Kiwis really love bananas.  According to the 2009/10 Household Economic Survey, an average of $88 per year was spent for bananas, while the closest rival apples was only $61 per year.  Please click on Statistics New Zealand to know more about this. 

I was raised in a country with a diet heavy on bananas: boiled, fried, sweetened, cooked, fresh, banana flour, banana cakes, as well as eating the other parts of the banana: flowers and stalks.  I even got to know of someone who has started making "vegemeat" out of banana peelings, calling it banana burger patties.  Alas, I didn't get the chance to taste it.

The kind of bananas we get here in NZ are limited in terms of variety.  I think they're the Cavendish-type.  I miss the ones that I grew up with.  I can still recall the days spent on the farm carrying the banana trunks for replanting up the hill.  After nine months they begin to show flowers and fruits.  There is even a red-skinned colour banana, the one my grandmother used to make into sweet cakes.  Another variety is really very sweet and very small too, just over the size of a thumb.

The next time you meet a banana, just think and remember where it came from.  And that it took a very long journey just to be with you!

Q&A - Jacinda Ardern, MP (Labour)

Jacinda is your Labour List MP based in Auckland Central.  Young, dynamic, positive and may I say very pretty, although I haven't met her personally, Jacinda is what the future of New Zealand should be.  Her current parliamentary roles are:
Member, Law & Order Committee
Spokesperson for Arts, Culture & Heritage
Spokesperson Children
Spokesperson Corrections
Spokesperson Police.

Jacinda took time from her busy schedule to kindly answer my Q&A.  She is one of the shining lights in Parliament.  New Zealand's future is in safe hands with Jacinda in the House.

Q: What is your proudest achievement up to this moment?
A: I am proud to be a member of the Labour Party, but being elected to Parliament represent a movement with such a long proud history was a real honour.  I do still wish my Nana was alive to share the moment.  She was a staunch Labour lady!

Q: Name 3 people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: Earnest Shackleton, the Antarctic explorer and one of my heroes!  His story of survival during the Endurance expedition is amazing and I would love to hear it in person.  Nelson Mandela.  I was lucky enough to meet him a few years ago.  What an amazing man.  And finally, Wislawa Szymborska.  She is a Polish poet.  She lived through World War Two, and went  on to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.  Her writing is amazing, but I would love to hear her stories in person!

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: I have always loved dogs but was never allowed one, so I grew up with cats and love them too.  Can I be both?  Right now, I would be a better cat owner than a dog owner.  I am never home!

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: Morrinsville.  It's where I grew up and my mum and dad still have a home there.  It's a lovely quiet place to go and recharge, and see my mum!

Q: Something not many people know about you.
A: The first thing I ever learned to drive was a bright red Massey Ferguson tractor.  Which I crashed.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: Can I have two?  The 60s and 70s to witness Beatle mania, and the era of the first Labour government.  Savage is every Labour MPs hero, and I love the legacy that government left behind.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: To be a good MP, daughter and friend.

There you have have it ladies and gentlemen, our very own Jacinda Ardern MP "Standing up not only for Auckland Central but more for New Zealand."

Steve Adams

Photo courtesy of TVNZ.co.nz

Steven Funaki Adams from Rotorua, New Zealand and playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder is 213 cm (7 ft) tall.  This 21-year-old Kiwi is slowly making his huge presence felt in the NBA. I've been watching Steve on YouTube, and I've noticed that he gets the brunt of elbows, knees, and all other physical contacts thrown his way.  He is a marked man on the court. Maybe it is his height or his being a Kiwi or a combination of both, that he gets tested to the extreme.  What I admire most about him is his coolness and composure under pressure.  I do hope he will be given the opportunity to play for the Tall Blacks at the World Basketball Championship in Barcelona, Spain, this coming August.

This is just my observation, from a small guy like me, who truly loves basketball---playing, watching and coaching.

Q&A - Cez Tan of Island Joe's BBQ

Cez Tan is the owner of Island Joe's a special restaurant in Onehunga, Auckland.  She kindly accepted my Q&A.  This is another instance of a migrant getting into business and adding diversity to the Kiwi palate.  I've never been to Island Joe's but the people who've been there have glowing praises and recommendations.  You'll notice that barbeque is spelt with a "q" just like how it's written in the American language.  Whether it's a c or q it is still a tasty meal.  I'll definitely make this a must-stop next time I'm in Auckland.

Q: What's the inspiration behind your business?
A: My favourite hobby is cooking and I've always wanted to try my hand at setting up a restaurant.  When the opportunity rose, I had to grab it.  Filipino food has always been the underdog in the international food scene when compared to Chinese, Thai, Japanese and other Asian cuisines but I know that our barbeque is far superior if only people can taste it.  The popularity of Hawaiian Barbeque in America gave me the idea to set-up a similar concept given that the original Hawaiian BBQ chain was co-founded by a Filipino thereby accounting for the Filipino influence.  Hawaiian cuisine is a mix of Asian, Polynesian and American food and our menu reflects this.

Q: What has been a challenge while building your business and how did you manage it?
A: The challenge has been to introduce our food, which is quite new to the Kiwi palate, to the general populace and not only to Filipinos.  We are slowly building up our non-Filipino customer base by word-of-mouth and participating in events like Pasifika.  Unfortunately, we don't have the resources to do a marketing blitz.  So we rely largely on people trying our food and loving it and inviting others to try.

Q: Name three people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: Simon Gault - I'd like to get his input as to how to get people to try our food.  Kim Dotcom - he would be an interesting person to talk to and also I might be able to convince him to invest in the restaurant business, ha ha ha.  Richie McCaw - I would love for him to try our food and endorse it.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: Probably a cat, I'm not as sociable as a dog.  Although I like meeting people, I prefer one-on-one interactions rather than crowds.

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: My house, where else would you feel relaxed and free?  When you get home from work, you can just sit in your deck and listen to bird songs.

Q: Something not many people know about you?
A: I'm very loyal to true friends.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: Nowhere.  If I change a thing in the past, I might not end up in NZ, and I don't want to be anywhere else at this point in time.

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: Have a chain of Island Joe's here and abroad.

There you have it ladies and gentlemen.  It's definitely a place to check out in Onehunga, Auckland.  With technology, the present world is now smaller, with almost all parts discovered.  It's time to explore and discover the next world, Food From Many Nations.

First of May

Today is May 1.  How time flies!  We've used four months of 2014 already.  How is it so fast for you?  Everything alright?  You're still in the doldrums?  Or you're slowly getting there?  I'm a bit ambivalent about this but I would like to believe that I'm slowly getting there, not quite there yet but taking one step at a time.

This day is also a traditional spring holiday in many cultures, specially in the Northern Hemisphere.  It also coincides with the celebration of International Workers Day.  I can recall back home in the Philippines, when this day was the official start of a month-long celebration of feasts in honour of patron saints.  This was also the month when young girls would come up to the alter of the church and also approach the pedestal of the Blessed Mother Mary, to lay flowers at her feet.  At the end of the month was the grand celebration of Flores de Mayo (the Flowers of May).

For me, I was a young lad then singing along to the song by the Bee Gees First of May (1969) made more memorable when it became one of the songs in the movie Melody Fair (1971).  That's how I always remember May 1 because it resonated with my "puppy love."  Ah, to be young and free, and hopelessly in love.  But that is another story.