Show Us Your Santa-kini

Ali Mau is the equivalent of Ann Currey on the Today Show. She reads the news for the popular TVNZ show Breakfast. Also, she is married to the main anchor at night Simon Dallow.

This morning, the always persistent Paul Henry was begging her to show the Santa-kini she was wearing underneath her red jacket. She initially refused but then gave Paul and subsequent show. It made him speechless.

So, what does your Santa-kini look like?

Ali Flashes Paul

Paula Bennett

I love Paula Bennett, she is tough, she can be loud, and she is fun. I met her when I was in New Zealand on a very memorable New Years Eve Dinner. She had a big crowd of people and they were have the best time a the restaurant. I got to serve them hundreds of dollars of adult beverages. Well, she has made it through cuts to her cabinet portfolio, breaking up a fight, seeing her daughters partner in jail. She is now the third most effective cabinet minister in the New Zealand Parliament. Here is a story from the New Zealand Hearld

Paula Bennett Story

Orange Sydney

The "Red Center" of Australia has decided to move into Sydney and Brisbane. The dust storms are creating havoc amongst residents, tourists, airports and outdoor activities. The pictures are rather stunning, so I had to share.

Apparently, the dust is on its way to New Zealand, I hope all my friends will be safe!

Goodbye New Zealand!

In less than 24 hours I will be leaving the place I have called home for over seven months. I am having mixed emotions about leaving this great nation, but so glad I spent time here.

The way of life in New Zealand is wonderful. The people know how to work hard and smart, but like their personal time as well. Everyone spends their time outside, with friends and whanau, and love their sports.

Everyone is welcome in New Zealand, as they should be in the rest of the world.

A huge THANK YOU to all those who made my experience here perfect. Hopefully, our paths will cross again!

What I will miss about New Zealand…

- Burgerfuel
- Tamati Coffey
- Outrageous Fortune
- Diplomatic Immunity
- Shortland Street
- broTown
- Taupo sunrise and sunset
- Paw Paw Jam
- Grab-A-Seat
- Paul Henry
- No Ozone Sunshine
- Auckland International YHA
- Airbus
- Yummy lamb
- Feijoa
- Boy racers
- Sheep trains
- Huka Falls
- Internet bandwidth restrictions
- Tetrus on my phone
- Jip Jip Rock Shiraz
- Steinlager Pure
- Tui
- “Sweet As, Cool As, Cheap As, Kiwi As”
- Maori language
- IMAX Auckland
- Piha
- John Key
- People not wearing shoes or jandels in the summer

Here We Go...

And I am off, it is time to start traveling. Over the next 90-odd days I am going to be moving on around the world. First, of course, New Zealand. I will start with stops in Wellington, Nelson, and Golden Bay. I will go back to Auckland to pick up my parents. We will spend a night in Taupo and then fly off to the deep south and explore Dunedin, the Caitlins, Milford, Te Anau, and Queenstown before they fly back to the United States. I will be going up to Christchurch and then over to the West Coast via train before going back up to Auckland.

At the end of May I will be going to Niue in the middle of the South Pacific for a week. After Niue I am going to Australia to revisit my old stomping grounds in Sydney and to see the sun in the Northern Queenstown city of Cairns.

After, Australia I am leaving for Thailand and its stunning scenery. Then off to spiritual India and the Taj Mahal. The heat will continue in Egypt where I will hopefully see the Pyramids. After Egypt, I move on to Europe and see the idyllic beaches of Croatia. Then it is on to the Mediterrean where I will work on my tan, eat beautiful bread, and hopefully drink some astonishing wine.

Finally, my last stop, a couple of nights in London to catch up with friends and party a bit.

I am ready to get this part of my journey started. It should be a great three months.

Rotorua...A Bad Smell or Place for Playboy?

'Aphrodisiac' smell sees Playboy mansion plans for Rotorua
April 1, 2009 - 12:36PM

The rotten egg smell emanating from New Zealand's popular tourist town, Rotorua, is such a powerful aphrodisiac that Hugh Hefner wants to build his next playboy mansion there.

Well, that's what the city's savvy tourism board would have you believe on April Fool's Day.

The board has issued doctored photographs of Hefner in town and a racy media release quoting the Playboy magazine founder as saying: "There's definitely something in the air in Rotorua."

"At my age it's great to get up in the morning without relying on any form of medication."

There is a nugget of truth in the seasonal tomfoolery, with Kiwi tourism executives keen to capitalise on research by Italy's University of Naples showing a link between the city's pongy hydrogen sulphide smell and male sexual arousal.

The research, published this month in the prestigious Journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, goes so far as to claim sulphide could be used to restore sexual function in men.

The city has used the claims to bat away recent criticism from a cheeky Australian expat who wrote on his blog site, fushnchups.co.nz, that Rotorua "smells like the whole town let rip at once".

The media release claims Hefner was jet bound for Rotorua as soon as he heard the sex claims and brokered a deal to convert the city's museum, which incidentally resembles his Los Angeles mansion, into a Playboy holiday mansion.

"While I thought the research findings would attract a lot of international interest from men looking to improve their sexual performance, I never expected a call from the man responsible for the sexual revolution of the sixties," Lyall Thurston from Rotorua Centennial Trust said in the release.

Destination Rotorua Tourism marketing manager Don Gunn admitted the launch, which included doctored audio of Hefner apparently answering questions about how much Rotorua had improved his virility, was "just a bit of fun".

He said he hoped Hefner wouldn't take issue with it.

"We thought about getting in touch with him but decided we'd just wait and offer him a free trip to check it out if he hears about it."

Guess Where I Am???

Do you have any clue where I am at right now...Please be specific!!! Here is a hint.

Haere Ra John!!!

The past 2 weeks have been crazy busy. Why? My dear friend John has been in New Zealand on his first international trip. We started the journey immediately after he arrived in the country and went to Great Barrier Island. Then we went down to Taupo, he spent some time in Wellington. And we finished the trip with Rotorua, Gisborne, Napier, Auckland. We have been in the water, watched the rain pour, climbed up several mountains, took 3 minute showers, drove around a Mazda 121, and had a few BurgerFuels. I think we both made a few memories on his trip. For me, it was great to see someone from home. For him, driving on the left side of the road and seeing clear water was the best (at least I think)

While tonight is John's last night in New Zealand, I have 2 more visitors arriving in the morning. Andy and Mindy Laubenthal arrive here on their honeymoon in less than 10 hours. I am very excited to see them, but sad to see John leave.

Have a great flight John!

W.O.F.

WOF is the sound a dog makes, but is also an interesting system in New Zealand to keep quality vehicles on the road. Some consider it bureaucratic, while others see it as a safety mechanism.

I went out to the Automobile Association website to find out more:

What is a Warrant of Fitness (WoF)?

It's a regular check to ensure your car is safe to drive on the road. A Warrant of Fitness is compulsory for light vehicles (cars, station wagons, vans, 4WDs, SUVs, light trucks). It's also required for trailers and motorcycles.

How often do I need to have this safety inspection?

If your car was first registered:

* Less than six years ago
o You're required to complete a WoF every 12 months
* Over six years ago
o You're required to complete a WoF every 6 months

Who can carry out the WoF safety check?

Only approved testing stations and garages. As a WoF agent, we're required to follow the car inspection requirements manual (VIRM). These requirements are defined and monitored by Land Transport New Zealand.

What's checked during a WoF inspection?

This is a general safety check and includes:

* Tyre condition
* Brake operation
* Structural condition
* Lights, doors and windows
* Windscreen washers and wipers
* Safety belts and airbags
* Speedometer, steering and suspension
* Exhaust and fuel system

Once your car passes the Warrant of Fitness inspection, you're required to keep it in this condition.

What do I do if my car fails the inspection?

If your car fails the inspection, you're not allowed to drive it on the road. There is one exception to this rule. And that's if you're in the process of bringing the car into compliance or obtaining a new WoF. But the car must be safe to drive for that purpose. Otherwise, stick to the golden rule: stay off the road until you have a valid Warrant of Fitness!

When you've fixed all the required areas, we'll check it again. If you bring it back to us within 28 days of the first inspection, then we'll complete the second inspection at no charge. After this date, however, we'll have to start from scratch.

What about other safety factors? How can I get these checked?

A WoF is not a pre-purchase inspection. So there are a number of areas that won't be checked. These include:

* Engine, clutch, gearbox and differential
* Lubricant levels and condition
* Brake pad thickness or life expectancy
* Paint work condition and rust in non-structural areas
* Interior condition
* Road test

If you'd like these areas checked, we can help. We provide AA Pre-Purchase Inspections. We can come to you. Or you can visit one of our AA Inspection Centres.

Where do I display the WoF label?

This label must be displayed on your car at all times. Attach it to the inside of the windscreen. Display it on the driver's side (the same side as the steering wheel). Affix it to far-right of the glass (or the left side, if your car is a left-hand drive vehicle).

How do know when my WoF expires?

Take a look at the label. You'll see that there is one circle for each month of the year. The circle showing the month your WoF expires has been removed. This will give you an indication of the month it needs to be re-inspected.

There is also an expiry date written on the label. You must have your car inspected and warranted before this expiry date.

Homesickness

Homesickness

Every moment of travel isn’t ‘hunky dory.’ When you are away from everything of comfort there will be periods of ‘ homesickness.’ This trip I have felt a few days of homesickness.

The day I arrived was probably the worst. I arrived in Auckland, and my nerves got the best of me. There were a couple of tearful moments when I was able to get in touch with Kevin. It was so difficult leaving him and the rest of my family the previous day, but I knew this trip was necessary.

The holidays brought another round of homesickness. This year I worked a lot of hours between Christmas, Boxing Day and New Years, which made the holiday even worse. There were too many ‘bah-humbugs’ in the workplace, and too many fun family activities happening back in the States. It was most difficult using Skype during my grandfather’s 80th birthday and Christmas celebration. My family was having such a great time huddled around the fire during the winter storm happening outside.

What is the best way to rid yourself of homesickness? Well, first I think there would be a major problem if you weren’t feeling some homesickness. Admitting, you are feeling alone, or missing your family is the initial step to feeling better. Second, talking to the person you miss. I probably wouldn’t be there without Kevin or my family if modern technology weren’t available. Skype has helped me still feel part of life back home, while being able to live life here. Plus, it is better to have a face-to-face conversation opposed to a telephone call any day. Third, doing something a bit out of the ordinary with the people you are missing. I usually send a heartfelt letter or email to whomever I am missing, it helps me and helps the other party understand your feelings towards them.

There isn’t a cure or medication to help with homesickness, but it can be dealt with to reduce possible issues. It is part of long-term travel to miss everything familiar. I am sure my issues with it will get better with all the upcoming visitors I have, they start rolling in next month!

Scattered Thoughts...

- Mrs. Copeland is from Taupo and taking a break at the hotel from nursing her ailing husband. He has been sick for sometime. Very sad.

- The morning air has been chilly, I have seen my breath. I think anyone from the midwest might kill me for saying that.

- The lake is stunning first thing in the morning, often very placid.

- Sometimes I think the hotel I work in should be a reality show, there is always so much drama.

- I have 5 DAYS OFF...I am not kidding, but heading up to Auckland later today for my first weekend out of Taupo.

- Taupo has been very busy. You can tell it is summer.

- I saw a story a week ago about how nobody has died because of an accident on a commercial airline jet. I guess that statistic stays the same today after the flight from NYC.

Death Near the Hotel...

I saw this happen yesterday...

A Maritime Safety official will on Wednesday begin investigating the death of a nine-year-old girl on Lake Taupo.

The child fell off water skis off Two Mile Bay when she was run over by a boat.

Police are also investigating the death, but say it is too early to know whether any charges will be laid.

The boat's driver gave immediate assistance to the girl and her family, but she died before she could be taken to hospital by ambulance.

The boat has been seized and will be examined by engineers and police.

The death has raised some concerns about staying safe while boating.

Lake Taupo harbourmaster Philip King says there are easy ways for people to stay safe on the water.

He says they need to educate themselves on the speed limit, know the laws, and be aware of what's happening around them.

King says the speed limit on Lake Taupo is five knots within 200 metres of the shore.

King wouldn't comment on the incident while investigations are underway, but says he often deals with people speeding.

Happy New Year!

I know most of my blog readers are in the Northern Hemisphere, so I thought I would share a beautiful photo from a few years ago of a sunset on Caye Caulker, Belize. Since, I am in the first time zone that will cross 2009, so Happy New Year!

Naked People at the Door...

I am currently recovering from a bit of shock. I guess it was my last Christmas gift. I got a call to bring some ice and lotion to one of the guest rooms at the hotel. It isn't an unusual request. I prepared the necessary items and then went to the room.

I knocked, and it took some time for the people to come to the door. It was dark in the room. When they opened the door, it was two 20-something women, stark NAKED. I kept my composure. I did look at the goods, and from and anatomical perspective, they were proportial. Meaning, they were attractive women.

They giggled, asked for more ice and lotion. I didn't smile, laugh, or even cry. However, I did run and tell everyone I work with.

As it turns out they know one of my work-mates and were hoping he anwered the door. I sent him to the room for more ice, and we timed it to make sure he returned. Oh, they are strippers...

Merry Christmas...Happy Holidays!

I hope everyone has a great holiday, in whatever you celebrate. I will be spending a rainy Christmas and Boxing Day working, but I am sure it will be a great time!

Scattered Thoughts...

- It is really funny seeing my parents trying to learn how to use their new Mac and Skype.

- I have been laughing about a comedy sketch I saw. Can you imagine a big Maori guy saying "Sweet As Bro" in a high pitched voice.

- I have only seen 4 Christmas trees since I have arrived, and no lights on the outside of homes. Strange.

- Work has been playing a lot of Christmas music. I am so tired of hearing WAM singing "Last Christmas."

- I went out last night, way, way, way too much booze.

- I am not liking the exchange rate, it isn't doing me any favors.

- United is pissing me off. They still haven't posted an Air New Zealand flight that will put me back in the Premiere status.

- The Iowa family that was on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition will be on TV here on Monday night.

- I love the song they use on Telecom NZ commercials, it is catchy.

- I booked a weekend trip to Auckland in January. The flight up was almost as cheap as going on the bus and about 4 hours less time.

- I have been doing a lot of travel research. My friend Livio in Italy has been really helpful with Europe, India, and Croatia stuff.

- I almost bought a car, but petrol wasn't in my budget

Sunburn

Kevin Gooch is the sunscreen police. He has seen me endure (and complain) about the pain it has caused so many parts of my body. Well, I was proud to say I have taken his advice and bought a big tube of SPF 30+ sunscreen. I bought it because I wanted to spend some time out on the beach (which is only 500m) near my flat. Last Friday, the weather was stunning, so I went out with 2 books, the sunscreen, and my towel.

When I arrived and found a good spot, I carefully put the cream on my body, hoping not to miss any spots. As I have said before, it is easier to burn here than any other part of the world. I was planning to spend 2 hours at the beach, and I did.

Later that evening at work, I was in some pain behind my knees. I took a look, and they were so red, and in a spot that sees so much movement. I thought, crap, the one spot that has so much use, is causing me so much pain. It was a deep red and incredibly burnt.

Well, it is feeling much better, the pain is gone, the redness has left, and I have beautiful brown tans behind my knees.

I won’t again forget that part of my body.

Mountain Biking

I have biked hundreds if not thousands of miles. You might catch me on a warm evening or weekend on the Neil Smith or Great Western trail poking along on my bike. I have had a few near misses with cars, been scared by a tree branch on the road, and even misjudged by other bikers, but last week was tough.

My new mate Emma thought it would be fun to get out and do some mountain biking. I am using a mountain bike to get around, why not use some of the trails around the area. We arrived at the Craters of the Moon to check out the Grade 2 and 3 trails. I was almost immediately scared. We started down the trails, and the pine needles were very slippery. I thought my feet were strapped in like my road bike back in Iowa, but they weren’t. I was so scared to be going down the meter wide trail with steep hills, turns, and a few obstructions. I would be at the top of a hill and look down, stopped. Emma would go, and I would walk (or run) the bike down.

By the time we were on our third trail, I was doing much better. My anxiety was waning, albeit slightly, and I was ready for new challenges. But, I was wiped out and ready to get back into town.

I have promised Emma more rides once my busy work schedule calms down, but it still makes my heart beat so much faster.

WOW...Look at the Sun

I now have a bike, actually I am borrowing it from Braden because he doesn’t us it and sometimes I need to get around a bit faster. It has been such a blessing for not only my fitness but also for cutting my 20-minute commutes down to 5 minutes each way. Enough about the bike.

Just a few minutes ago I was on my way home, via the bike and noticing how peaceful the evening was. I couldn’t feel too much of a lake wind, but there were a few waves clapping below the cliff. The sky was clear after two days of rain, it was really nice.

Off in the distance I could see what looked like remnants of the sun. I was thinking, could this sun stay up this long all summer long? I looked at my watch and saw that it was about 10:45 p.m. Wow, the sun is still out.

When I arrived back at home, the flat mate was about ready to go to bed. I told him to look outside; I could still see some of the sunrays. He went outside, and said, “Look, there is the nearly full moon.” It was the moon rays that were bright, the summer sky twinkling. I must have spent entirely too much time at the bar last night.

Happy Thanksgiving

I wanted to wish everyone a very nice Thanksgiving. I was able to chat with my family on the phone and they were all completely stuffed, which is great. I am so THANKFUL to have such a great group of family, friends, and blog buddies. You all are wonderful!