Accents are funny. The way we say mobile, Zebra, and Vitamins in the US are different than the way they say them in Britain or New Zealand. Here’s why 16 zebras on your New Zealand mobile is better than eating vitamins.
Spring has sprung in New Zealand
A great feeling of spring in New Zealand after a cold, wet winter. Most wonderful is the return of the sun. We’ve lived now for 5 months in New Zealand.
Ode On A “Selfish” Cloud
A rumination and poem on a selfish cloud. Clouds blocking the New Zealand spring sun when all I wanted was the cloud to bugger off so I could get some sun.
x-pleening the nu zeelun ix-sent
Want to understand the history of the New Zealand accent, and learn how to speak like a New Zealander (Kiwi) yourself?
Are You Moving to New Zealand… Like Permanently?
I don’t know if I’ve explained this very well. No, we’re not moving to New Zealand. But I think the confusion I’ve heard from people this week (in the USA) comes from their knowing that we’ve gotten jobs here in…
You Are The Voice (Try to Understand It)
One of the best parts for me of travel is hearing the music of different countries. One night this past week, Keith and Carol were watching “The X Factor Australia”. The X Factor is a show like American Idol. I…
Video: How Many Carries Equal Kauri Tane Mahuta?
Carrie and I got to visit Tane Mahuta, the largest (by volume) Kauri tree in New Zealand, and in the world. It’s 40 feet ACROSS! (Not around, across.) Walking among these giants is like walking through a set of a…
My Sunny Birthday in Auckland, New Zealand
Spring has sprung here in Auckland, New Zealand. Spring… and my birthday. How weird! Most years I’m celebrating my birthday in fall, with Halloween decorations in the stores Leaves turning golden Family/friends all around. This year, I’m celebrating with warmth…
Floundering Around: Flounder From Ocean To Stomach in 5 Minutes
We went out and caught flounder in Whangaroa Harbor. We did this over two days, and actually caught the flounder in nets, before gutting it, and frying it up in a pan. Catching flounder and eating it gave me a…
Ian’s Garden in Northland, New Zealand
Because we stayed at The J Taitokerau, we got the opportunity to go with Mark (the owner of the J Taitokerau) to visit Ian’s garden. Ian is a local guy, 81 years old, who has an absolutely magnificent garden. Here…