#A/C Cleaning Christchurch

[hvacclean]

Everything You Have To Know About Air Conditioner Cleaning & Maintenance: Expert Guide

As your area starts receiving scorching hot weather during summer, your air conditioner starts working overtime, especially when you are staying indoors. Neglecting anAir Conditioner Cleaning Services Christchurch can cause various issues including high energy bills, poor indoor air quality, and decreased efficiency.

In short, your air conditioner needs proper maintenance during the summer season. Let’s explore the best ways to maintain your AC and the benefits of hiring Hvac Cleaning Services Christchurch.

Why Does Your AC Need Maintenance?

Why should you choose an Hvac Cleaning Company in Christchurch for AC maintenance? If you are confused about this, you have to know the common issues that can be faced due to neglecting air conditioner maintenance:

Poor Indoor Air Quality: When your air conditioner’s coils and filter are clogged, it can result in circulating pollutants in your house. As a result, it will affect your house’s indoor air quality.

Decreased Efficiency: Lack of maintenance and cleaning can force your AC to work harder to cool your home. This results in increased utility bills due to energy consumption.

High Repairing Cost: Neglecting maintenance can lead to higher repair costs.

Considerations of Air Conditioner Maintenance

There are some crucial areas that you have to focus on while cleaning your air conditioner. Whether you hire professionals or do it yourself, take care of these considerations:

?     AC units have filters that remove dust from the air. Filters force an air conditioner unit to work harder to cool the area. That means it needs more energy to work.

?     Each AC unit has coils that move cold and hot air so they aren’t clogged with dust and dirt.

Benefits Of Air Conditioner Cleaning in Christchurch

If you are having second thoughts about hiring an Air Conditioner Cleaning Services in Christchurch

, You have to know some benefits: 

Energy Savings — When you are maintaining your air conditioner regularly, it will operate efficiently. Regular maintenance and filter cleaning lowers energy consumption and reduces monthly utility bills.

Boost Indoor Air Quality — Clean coils and filters capture your home's pollutants, dust, and allergens. But it’s impossible when the AC filter is clogged.

Cost Efficient — Regular AC maintenance by A/C Cleaning Services in Christchurch will help reduce energy costs. On the other hand, you can avoid costly repair or replacement.

Decreased Environmental Impact — An efficient air conditioner unit consumes less energy and contributes to a greener environment.

Extended AC Unit’s Lifespan — Regular maintenance and cleaning can increase an AC unit’s lifespan. In short, it can protect your investment by preventing high risks.

Best Air Conditioner Air Filter Maintenance Tips

Besides regular AC cleaning by professionals, you can implement some effective maintenance tips to improve your unit’s lifespan. Let’s find out how to maintain your air conditioner unit by following some easy steps:

Change Filters:

If you have a central AC unit, checking filters every 30-60 days is essential. A clogged filter can reduce the work efficiency of the unit. In fact, it can decrease your house’s indoor air quality. If you have kids, changing the filter is necessary every month.

On the other hand, if you don’t have kids or pets or don’t welcome too many guests, you can change the filters every three to four months depending on weather conditions.

Clean the Condenser Unit:

Cleaning the condenser unit regularly is essential for all central AC unit owners. However, the good part is it can be done once a year. Still, it depends on your area’s weather conditions and your house’s environment. As per many home improvement experts, cleaning the condenser unit is necessary to keep your home surrounding debris-free.

Blockage Removing:

As mentioned above, an AC unit can face issues due to uncertain blockage. In this case, checking these minor issues is essential to improve the system’s lifespan. Make sure nothing is blocking the cooling system as it will hinder the airflow.

Know When to Call an Expert:

Sure, you can maintain your AC unit by following some easy steps. However, some critical issues can be only solved by an expert. Keep checking the minor issues and get help from the best Hvac Cleaning Specialist Christchurch. While some basic tasks can be done at home, an air conditioner cleaning technician has the proper equipment to ensure the cooling system’s health.

How to Clean AC Air Filter at Home [For Reusable Filter]

As noted before, your AC unit’s filter can be maintained at home. In this case, you have to follow a step-by-step guide to get the best outcome. Keep reading to learn more about the filter cleaning process:

?     First, turn off the power button of your AC unit.

?     Once you turn off the power, locate the air filter which can be found between the return duct and the air handler.

?     Carefully remove the filter from the unit and check its condition.

?     If it’s a reusable filter, gently clean it with water and mild detergent. You can also follow the instructions from the manufacturers for a better outcome.

?     Once you are done with the cleaning, allow the air filter to dry completely before reinstalling it.

Make sure you are following the proper instructions while reinstalling the air filter. If you don’t have a reusable filter, you have to replace it with a new one.

Why Hire an HVAC Cleaning Company in Christchurch?

Even though your air conditioner is working properly, an annual A/C cleaning Christchurch service is necessary to expand the unit’s lifespan. On the other hand, there are some incredible benefits of hiring a professional team including reduced utility bills, preventing total breakdown, and more. Plus, an HVAC cleaning Christchurch service team has proper knowledge and equipment.

Conclusion

Regular AC maintenance is more than important for homeowners. Besides hiring an Air Conditioner Cleaning Christchurch Company, you can do basic maintenance by following some easy procedures. Keep checking all the small issues to increase the unit’s work efficiency. If you find something serious, it’s better to get help from professionals.

[tunnelwash]

Revitalise Your Ride: The Benefits of Professional Car Detailing

Hey there, car enthusiasts! Are you tired of driving around in a dull and dirty car? Well, it's time to revitalise your ride! In this blog post, we'll be discussing the importance of maintaining a clean and well-maintained car and how Professional car detailing service Christchurch can help you achieve just that.

So buckle up and get ready to learn all about the amazing benefits that professional detailing can bring to your beloved vehicle.

I. What is Professional Car Detailing?

Before we dive into the benefits, let's first understand what professional interior car cleaning entails. Unlike regular car washing, which focuses mainly on removing dirt and grime, professional car detailing takes interior car cleaning care to a whole new level. It involves a meticulous and comprehensive cleaning and restoration process that aims to bring your vehicle back to its showroom-like condition.

Professional detailers possess the expertise, knowledge, and specialised tools necessary to go beyond the surface and tackle the hidden dirt, scratches, and imperfections that may be diminishing the overall appearance of your car.

II. The Top Benefits of Professional Car Detailing

A. Enhanced Exterior Appearance

Detailers have a range of techniques at their disposal to bring out the shine and lustre of your car's paint. From using a clay bar treatment to remove contaminants to polishing away scratches and imperfections and, finally, applying a protective wax coating, professionals can transform your car's exterior into a head-turning masterpiece.

B. Protection against Environmental Elements

Your car faces a constant battle against the elements - UV rays, acid rain, bird droppings, and more. Professional detailers understand the importance of protecting your car's paint from these harsh elements. They apply specialised protective coatings, such as paint sealants or ceramic coatings, that act as a shield against UV rays and contaminants.

C. Interior Deep Cleaning

While the exterior of your car is what catches everyone's eye, the interior is where you spend most of your time. Professional detailers understand the importance of a clean and fresh interior. They go above and beyond a simple vacuum and wipe down, using techniques like steam cleaning, shampooing, and leather conditioning to ensure that every nook and cranny of your car's interior is thoroughly cleaned.

 D. Improved Driving Experience

A clean and fresh interior not only looks great but also enhances your overall driving experience. By eliminating odours, allergens, and bacteria, professional detailers create a healthier and more pleasant environment for you and your passengers.

III. Time-Saving Convenience

We live in a fast-paced world where time is a precious commodity. When it comes to car maintenance, professional detailers offer a time-saving convenience that is hard to beat. Instead of spending your weekends washing and cleaning your car, you can leave it in the capable hands of professionals who will handle all aspects of car detailing Christchurch efficiently and effectively.

IV. Increased Resale Value

Are you planning on selling your car in the future? Regular professional detailing can help maintain your vehicle's value over time. Potential buyers are more likely to be attracted to a car that has been well-maintained and has a detailed service history.

Final Thoughts

So, if you're ready to give your car the care it deserves, consider investing in professional car detailing Christchurch and beyond. Your vehicle will thank you for it, and you'll be driving in style and comfort once again. Don't wait any longer - schedule an appointment with a professional detailer today. And don't forget to share this blog with your fellow car enthusiasts who might find it helpful. Happy driving!

Source:https://cardetailingservicechristchurch.blogspot.com/2023/12/revitalise-your-ride-benefits-of.html

[mclcontracting]

Choosing the Right Materials: A Guide to Driveway Construction

Welcome readers to our comprehensive guide on choosing the right materials for driveway construction. A well-constructed driveway Christchurch not only serves practical purposes but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your property. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of understanding your needs, evaluating key factors, considering design and aesthetic appeal, assessing environmental impact, and seeking professional guidance. By the end, you will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision and create a driveway that meets your requirements and exceeds your expectations.

Understanding Your Needs

A. Assessing your requirements:

Before diving into the material options, it is essential to assess your needs and determine the purpose of your driveway. Are you primarily looking for parking space or are you also concerned about the visual impact? Additionally, consider factors such as climate, traffic volume, and budget that may influence your decision.

B. Analyzing material options:

Now that you have a clear understanding of your requirements, let's explore the different material options available for driveway construction.

1. Asphalt:

Asphalt is a popular choice due to its affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements. It provides a smooth and comfortable surface for driving, making it ideal for high traffic areas. However, it may require periodic sealing to maintain its appearance and prevent cracks.

2. Concrete:

Concrete driveways are known for their longevity and versatility. They can withstand heavy loads and are less prone to damage from oil or chemicals. Additionally, concrete offers a wide range of design options, allowing you to create a driveway Christchurch that complements your property's aesthetic appeal.

3. Gravel:

Gravel driveways are cost-effective and relatively easy to install. They provide excellent drainage, which is beneficial in areas with heavy rainfall. However, they may require regular maintenance to ensure proper leveling and prevent the formation of potholes.

4. Pavers:

Pavers add a touch of elegance to your driveway with their attractiveness and variety of designs. They are available in various materials such as concrete, clay, or natural stone. The interlocking system of pavers ensures durability and easy replacement if any individual unit gets damaged.

Evaluating Key Factors

A. Durability and Maintenance:

When considering driveway materials, it is essential to evaluate their durability and maintenance needs. Asphalt driveways typically last around 15-20 years, while concrete driveways can last up to 30 years or more with proper care. Regular upkeep, such as sealing cracks and cleaning stains, can significantly extend the life of your driveway regardless of the material chosen.

B. Climate Suitability:

The climate in your region plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of different driveway materials. For areas with freezing temperatures, materials like asphalt or concrete with good freeze-thaw resistance are recommended. In regions with extreme heat, lighter-colored materials such as concrete or pavers can help reduce heat absorption.

C. Cost Considerations:

The cost of driveway construction encompasses both initial installation expenses and long-term maintenance costs. Asphalt driveways are generally the most affordable option, followed by gravel and concrete. However, it is essential to consider long-term expenses such as repairs and maintenance, as these can vary significantly depending on the material chosen.

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

A. Enhancing curb appeal:

Your driveway is an essential element of your home's exterior, and its design should complement the overall aesthetics. Consider incorporating elements such as patterned concrete or decorative pavers to add visual interest and enhance curb appeal. By choosing the right material and design, you can create a driveway that becomes an attractive feature of your property.

B. Color options:

Both asphalt and concrete driveways offer a range of color choices to match your preferences or property aesthetics. Asphalt driveways can be dyed to achieve various shades, while concrete driveways can be stained or stamped to create unique patterns and colors.

Environmental Impact

A. Sustainability considerations:

In today's environmentally conscious world, it is important to consider the ecological impact of driveway materials. Permeable pavers, for example, allow rainwater to penetrate the surface, promoting water drainage and reducing runoff. Additionally, certain materials may be recyclable or have a lower carbon footprint, making them more sustainable choices.

Seeking Professional Guidance

A. Importance of expert advice:

While this guide provides valuable information, seeking professional advice is crucial for successful driveway construction. Experienced contractors can assess your specific needs, recommend the most suitable materials, and ensure proper installation.

B. References and testimonials:

Before finalizing your decision, it is advisable to gather references or read online reviews of contractors. This will help you choose reputable professionals who have a track record of delivering quality work.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right materials for driveway construction is a crucial step towards creating a functional and visually appealing space. By assessing your needs, evaluating key factors, considering design and aesthetics, assessing environmental impact, and seeking professional guidance, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision. 

Remember, a well-constructed driveway Christchurch not only adds value to your property but also enhances your everyday experience. Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments section below - we would love to hear from you!

Source By - https://tinyurl.com/23upyh6m 

[timothystillopf1]

Fundamentals Week 5 - Homework task

This week for fundamentals we were given the simple task of taking a Subject and placing it onto a background using the skills we were taught during our last session in Photoshop. For my background, I have chosen this image of my own I had taken in the streets of Christchurch.

My goal for this image is to insert my subject onto the sidewalk of this image and adjust it in a way that it appears to fit in as if it was there when I took the photo. For my subject, I have chosen this image of R2D2.

I have various other images of my subject as a backup in the event this one ends up not working the way I want it to, but for now, I chose this image as it fits with the vision I had when brainstorming an idea for this homework task, the angle of which he is facing in this image I think will definitely help sell the overall final product as my goal, again, is to have him blend into the environment as if it were just rolling through when the photo was taken. Another reason this picture was chosen was the fact that it had a solid coloured background which makes it easier for me to select and mask my subject.

I started by using the object select tool which (thanks to the solid background) selected my entire subject almost perfectly. Almost. Because of this, I then used the 'Magnetic Lasso' tool while holding down the Alt key (PC) to tidy up the selection area toward the bottom right of my subject.

After making my clipping mask I then compared my subject to my background in order to ascertain what adjustments I may need to make before taking it over and placing it into my background image. Given my background image is already edited, I wanted to edit my subject in a way that I would have when I did my initial edit. I first pulled up the Curves palette and boosted the contrast and a little bit of the brightness to have it appear as if they were edited together as one image. I applied my layer mask and put my image over into my background.

Straight away there are a few issues I am noticing, A) there is no shadow, B) it may be just slightly too bright, and C) it sits over the sign within my background image. So first I went back to my subject image and reapplied my layer mask (Ctrl + Z and readjusted my curves

To make a shadow, I went back to my subject layer mask, and using the exposure palette, I created a silhouette. From there I took the eraser tool, decreased opacity by -40%, and put the hardness to 0. Gently going around the edges of my subject I, I softened the outline of what would become my shadow.

I then re-applied my layer mask and placed my silhouette into my background image.

After placing it into the image, I then rotated it on an angle that matched the pre-existing shadows within the image, This was important as, given the time of day, If I wanted to sell the idea of R2D2 actually being in my image when this was taken, the angle and length of the shadow had to match. This was accomplished by Holding down the shift key and then clicking and dragging one of the corners of my image to elongate my shadow. I then flipped the shadow horizontally to create a complete shadow effect of my subject on the ground. Using the eraser tool, I cleaned up the parts that did not line up with my subject.

I then decreased the opacity to a point that matched up with the shadows on the ground in order to blend in. I was then faced with a new problem. The colours of the shadows did not match. To fix this, Selecting my Shadow layer, I used the Object Selection tool again to select my entire shadow. I then used the pipette tool to sample the colour of the shadow on the ground and used the brush tool (with my sampled colour and opacity at 61%) to colour in my selection area leaving me with this result.

to deal with the issue of the overlapping of my subject with the sign, I want it to be behind he sign to add depth to the image and give it more of a feeling that R2D2 was present.

I hid my subject and shadow and again used the Lasso tool to select the corner of the foot of the sign and created a copy (Ctl+C, Ctl+V) to layer over top of my layer.

After tidying up This was my final result. Taking into account that my subject still sticks out a little too much for my liking, I then went back in with the object selection tool with my subject layer selected and used the Burn tool to make my subject darker and boost the shadows. This felt necessary as the sun is placed behind my subject and as such should appear a bit darker with the already existing shadows on my subject also being darker.

Finished! It's not perfect, but I am overall happy with the outcome. I thoroughly enjoyed this task as with the way I approached it, I was faced with a lot of trial and error and problem-solving which was super satisfying to play around and fix! I am enjoying sharpening my Photoshop skills and look forward to only getting better with these tools and applying them in the future.

[kitchenlegrecords]

“Blind Spot” from Adrie now available on Boomkat

Killer DIY/C86 avant-janglers for guitar, drums & vox somewhere on the spectrum between classic Sarah Records x Flying Nun, The Breeders’ ‘Pod’ and the Slint/Moin thing. Tipped!

Adrie’s sound is an angular but sweet ruckus that veers from fuzzed dreampop to lo-fi, countrified punk and garage, reminding us in places of everything from The Field Mice to Slint and The Breeders. The production is baked-in and oversaturated, recorded to 8-track Tascam portastudio, and capturing that specific late 80’s era without submitting to the trappings of nostalgia. What made that wave of lo-fi indie so creative and pure was more than just jangly chords and lackadaisical vocals, it was the blown-out self-guided production that stood in contrast to progressively more sterile releases from major studios at the time - a thing that Adrie nails perfectly on these 8 tunes.

It’s a sound that’s absorbingly mulched in a way that's completely at odds with contemporary engineering logic, and that's what makes it so addictive. 'Crucial Speculations' is almost revolutionary in its rejection of modern recording methodology - there's no autotune, no gridded drum patterns, no plasticky direct-injected digi-crunch guitar. It immediately reminds us of ramshackle US hardcore recordings and the charismatic run of Sarah Records, the Bristol-based indie imprint that released music from influential artists like Heavenly, The Field Mice and Boyracer. Elsewhere, 'You Don't Try' captures the wind-tunnel punkishness of Christchurch's Flying Nun, home to The Clean and The Dead C.

Our favourite moments come when Adrie strips things back to a whisper; on 'Stunned' her voice is pulled into sharp Nico-esque focus, echoing loudly over a faint rhythm, minuscule organ blasts and staccato guitar plucks. There's a theatrical grandeur to this one that separates it from Adrie's more maximalist material, and gives the album its unique character; 'Rocky Road' approaches a similar atmosphere, sounding almost like Beach House with its flimsy farfisa phrases, reverberating beat and disaffected vocals.

‘Blind Spot’ is an addictive, multi-layered listen - and one we just keep on going back to.

https://boomkat.com/products/adrie-blind-spot

[sosplumbingdrainage]

When it comes to unblocking drains, we are the name you need to remember, as we have all the expertise and equipment necessary to solve all drain blockage issues. If you suspect your home might be in need of having a drain unblocked, or you can see signs of water damage as a result of a blocked drain, give Easy Flow Drainage Christchurch a call for a free consultation.

[chickensarentcheap]

Sanctuary - Chapter 58

Warnings: none

Tagging: @innerpaperexpertcloud​, @c-a-v-a-l-r-y​, @alievans007​, @thunderintheshadows​, @valkyrie-of-the-light​

The team meeting/breakfast is scheduled for nine am; out on the roof top patio of Tyler's hotel.  He's the last to arrive, hair still messy from sleep, laces of his boots undone, sunglasses covering his tired eyes.  He'd finally managed to fall asleep shortly before three am, only to wake up every hour on the hour in a panic, body drenched in a cold sweat because of the nightmarish images that his brain just couldn't shake.  He'd been dying for a drink; tempted by the unlocked mini bar in the corner of the room. The irrational side of his mind telling him that he'd be okay with just one or two. That he'd be able to just put the bottle down and walk away when he got even the smallest bit of buzz going on. Only to be talked out of it by the more mature and rational part; that he wouldn't be able to stop, that he'd drink until he was fall down drunk and then all of his progress, even in such a short period of time, would be for nothing. Instead he texted his wife and been brutally honest. That he was having a hard time and so close to slipping. That the situation in Christchurch was way worse than it originally seemed and he was legitimately scared; that he wasn't going to make it home to her and his kids. And she'd called him right away to talk him down. Never scolding or nagging. Just quiet and supportive. Strong.

It was six in the morning when they'd finally hung up. And he'd managed to fall into a somewhat restful sleep;  successfully talked down off the ledge,  both mind and body ready to let him rest. Then the phone had gone off at eight thirty and he'd immediately panicked; thinking that something had happened and he'd be needed to get home as soon as possible. Only to discover that it was the kids. They'd just gotten home and after an excited and joyful reunion with their mother, had wanted to call him.  Excitedly blabbering about all of the fun things they'd done with Ovi and Chloe while they were on 'vacation', all the cool new foods they got to try,  the trips to the zoo.  But they'd been sad too; they'd missed home and everything that came with it. All the toys and their own beds and their backyard and even the chickens and the goats.  Most of all, they'd missed their mom. Her kisses and her hugs and the way she cuts the crust off their sandwiches.  And they'd been hopeful when they'd seen her that it had meant he was home too.  Only to be heartbroken and disappointed when they found out he was still working.

So now he's late. By a mere five minutes. But he sees the way Mark glares at him as he approaches. There's no love lost between them. And Tyler seriously considers what Yaz had said the day before; about waiting until the job was over and then just dragging Mark out into the street and laying the beating of a lifetime on him.  

“All good?” Yaz asks, as Tyler takes a seat beside him, then slides a cup of steaming black coffee towards him.

“All good.”

“Things are okay at home? With...well you know...”

He nods. “Things are fine with that. She's fine. Kids finally got back. They called wanting to talk to me, so...”

Across the table, Mark gives a derisive snort, shaking his head as he pretends to be immersed in his menu.

“What the fuck now?” Tyler asks. “You have an issue with me talking to my kids?”

“We don't have time for you to be dealing your personal shit, Rake.”

“They're his kids,” Yaz forcefully reminds Mark. “Who he isn't seen in almost a month. He's not supposed to talk to his kids now? Get out of here with that shit. They wanted to talk to their dad. What is wrong with you?”

“You either leave your shit back home or you don't show up,” Mark reasons.

“They're kids,” Nathan pipes up.  “Little kids. They're not allowed to talk to their father?”

“We don't have time to be dealing with wives and girlfriends and kids and whatever the hell else.  Are we not here to work? How are we supposed to get any shit done when some of you are too busy dealing with personal crap? Stow that shit and get on with business.”

“Sounds like someone is just bitter they don't have a personal life to worry about,” Yaz remarks, as he goes back to his own menu.  “Because my sister was smart enough to move on to someone else.”

“There was never anything between me and your sister,” Mark informs him. “It was just...a thing...”

Tyler smirks.  “A thing, huh? So that's what the kids are calling phone sex these days.  Don't be mad, Mark. That some of us are actually having real sex while you're resorting to handling things on your own. We won't hold it against you. Just don't expect me to shake your hand though. I don't want to be touching something that's been attached to your dick.”

Yaz smirks and coughs noisily beside him.

“And I'll talk to my kids whenever the fuck I feel like it,” Tyler adds. “When I talk to my kids or my wife has nothing to do with you. Or is that what the real issue is? The fact that she's my wife and not yours. You fucked that up, buddy. That was over long before I came around. I'm just the one that cleaned up your goddamn mess.”

“Hey, if you like someone else's sloppy seconds, that's your business,” Mark retorts. “You two are made for each other. You're both fucking train wrecks.”

“Just admit you're pissed off that your ex moved on to bigger and better,” Yaz says. “That you screwed things up and now you've got to live with that and he gets to live with her. Not his fault you're a cheating, wife abusing bastard.”

“Cheating, narcissistic, wife abusing bastard,” Tyler corrects. “You left out narcissistic.  Just let it go, Mark. I'm not in the mood for your shit. I'm never in the mood for your shit. But especially not now. I haven't seen my kids in almost a month, my wife isn't doing well and just got out of the hospital, and I'm here putting up with your crap. So how about you just sit there and shut the fuck up.”

Mark frowns. “She was in the hospital? Why?”

“Oh now he's worried about her,”  Yaz scoffs. “Not when he was beating the shit out of her. But now. Now that she's with a guy that doesn't do that kind of shit.  Why was she in the hospital? How about it's none of your goddamn business.”

“She hasn't been feeling well and thought maybe there was a problems with the baby,” Tyler casually explains, sipping his coffee.

Mark's frown deepens. “Baby? What baby?”

“The one that I put inside of her almost four months ago. That baby.”

“Say what you want about the man, but he's got seriously talented sperm,” Yaz digs a playful elbow into his friend's ribs. “And lots to spare, apparently.”

Congratulations go up around the table; followed by his personal cell phone being passed around in order to proudly show off the ultrasound photos that his wife had sent to him. It isn't his first rodeo; he's been this round four times now. But each time feels just as amazing as the last; seeing the pictures, watching her grow bigger with their child, his child, thinking about how incredible it is that despite all of their issues, they managed to create another human being together.  And it's bittersweet in a way. That this will be the last one.  The last chance that he has to go through the experience with her yet he here is, thousands of miles away.

A waitress comes to take their orders and talk eventually turns to the job at hand. Most specifically, his talk with Heather McMann the day before.

“Think she's trust worthy?” Yaz inquires. “Did she seem on the up and up?”

“Seemed that way,” Tyler replies. “But then so did her husband and look at how that ended up.”

“Definitely not your brightest moment,” Mark snidely comments.

Tyler chooses to ignore it.  “Unless she's a really good actress, there is no way she was lying. It was too real; the emotion on her face, in her voice.”

He realizes how much he sounds like Esme; when she's going on about how there's times where he communicates more effectively with his facial expressions and his body language than with actual words. She always knows what he's feeling...what he's thinking...long before he ever verbally expresses them.   That is how it had been with Heather McMann.  It wasn't what he'd heard. It was what he'd seen. And everything told him that it was very, very real.

“And the kids are in there?” Mark asks. “In that shop?”

“In the basement. She says it's like an underground bunker down there. Just like the one back home. It would look like this...” he snatches the pen that Yaz has tucked in the breast pocket of his short sleeved button down, and then grabs the unused napkin underneath his own cutlery. “One long hallway...” he speaks as he hastily draws the layout. “...there's a room immediately to the left of the stairs. Small. Five by six, if that. Another room about four feet down the hall, to the right. Slightly bigger. I'm saying about seven by eight, maybe. Five more rooms after that. Directly across from one another. The first three are the same size; eight by nine. Last two are bigger. The one where Esme found the chair was eleven by twelve. The one where I found Erin Ferguson was large. Thirteen by fifteen. There's a door, at the end of the hall; just leads to a small cold storage area. No other entrance or exit. Just the main one. Hallway is three hundred and fifty feet. Give or take a couple of inches.”

“And you were able to know all of this...all these measurements...even though it was dark down there?” Mark smirks. “How?”

“Because I have two fucking feet and I know how to count without having to use my fingers. That's how. I walked that entire place. We walked it. I know exactly how many feet there were.”

Just like he'd known exactly how many it took to get as far as he did on the Sultana Kamal Bridge. Because he'd counted down every single one; each step taking him not only closer to freedom and safety, but to her. A number that...as soon as he'd been healthy enough...he'd had tattooed on the inside of his right bicep. Along with each of the kids' first and middle initials and their dates of birth.

“And I never once mentioned that it was dark down there,” he adds. “How did you know that?”

“So maybe it wasn't completely dark,” Mark corrects himself. “Just the rooms. The hallway had light.”

Tyler scowls. “But I never mentioned that. To any of you. This is the first time I've talked about what it was like down there since it happened. How'd you know that the only light was in the hallway?”

“I guess I just assumed,” Mark shrugs. “I mean, there's only so many options when you're underground, right?”

“You absolute motherfucker,” Tyler's eyes darken, his voice becoming menacing as the reality sinks in.  “It was you. You're the one that told McMann we were going there. When Esme asked you to distract him so we could go there and poke around.”

Mark gives a dry laugh. “Okay, that's really reaching, Rake. Your brain really is messed up if you can jump to shitty ass conclusions like that so fast.”

“She trusted you. I trusted you. You told him as soon as you met him up with him, didn't you. That's how he was able to get things together so quickly. He knew exactly how long it would take us to get there. It gave him enough time to get his people there and have someone fuck up the comms. Or was that you, too? FBI would know how to do shit like that, right?”

“You're crazy,” Mark declares. “You've officially gone right off the deep end. Snapped that last shred of sanity you've been hanging onto. I told Esme this would happen you know.  That one day you'd just lose it all together. I'm glad it didn't happen when you were at home. You'd probably be one of those guy's that would go completely psycho and kill his entire family...”

“Listen you little fuck...”  there's a loud clatter of silverware and china as he leans across the table, a fist snatching Mark by the front of his golf shirt.  Around them, conversations and laughter all come to a stand still as every eye on the place zeros in on the altercation taking place before them.  “...for the last time, leave my family out of this. Don't talk about them, don't even think about them.”

“Okay...okay...” Yaz once again resorts to playing peacemaker. “...I get you want to kill him, but we're in a public place and the last thing we need to do is draw attention to ourselves. So please calm the fuck down.”

Tyler releases his grip on Mark's shirt, but roughly shoves him back into his chair. “I trusted you. I took her word for it that you wouldn't totally fuck us and you did. You knew she was going with me. You knew she'd be there. And you told him. Do you know what could have happened to her? If I hadn't have told her to leave? Do you have any idea the sick shit they would have done to her? Or didn't that matter to you. As long as you got rid of me, you didn't give a shit what happened to her.”

“Is this true?” Yaz asks. “What he's saying? Were you the one that told McMann about Tyler and Esme going there?”

“I never said a goddamn word. He's crazy. Certifiably crazy. We all know his issues. How fucked up in the head he is. Doesn't this prove that?”

“I'm fucked up in the head?” Tyler retorts. “You're calling me fucked up in the head yet you're the one that knew what would happen to her if they got a hold of her? You hate me that much that you'd let that happen? You'd let them do that her? To my wife?”

“Is it true?” Yaz presses. “Just tell us that. Were you the one who told McMann that they'd be at the house? Yes or no.”

Mark sighs heavily. “Yes.”

“Jesus...fuck...” Yaz mutters, as Nathan throws his hands up in surrender of the whole screwed up situation and walks away from the table. “...you can't be serious. Why the hell?”

“Money,” Mark simply replies. “He offered me a lot of money.”

“Holy shit,” Zak shakes his head in disbelief and gets up from the table as well. “This is fucked. You're fucked, Mark. We're supposed to be a fucking team! You brought us here to help and you're going around doing shit like this? For money?”

“He needed help,” Mark says. “He'd already screwed up once when it came to killing you. He thought for the second time would work.”

“And it didn't matter that she was with me,” Tyler states. “It didn't matter what they do to her. None of that mattered to you.”

Mark shrugs. “Collateral damage.”

“You didn't care if my kids were left without their father or their mother?”

“Whatever had to be done to take you out. If that meant she went too...” he shrugs once more.

Sighing heavily, Tyler shakes his head and leans back in his chair, elbow on the arm rest; palm pressed against his forehead as he closes his eyes.

“Guess things were really fucked once we grabbed McMann, huh?” Yaz inquires. “Guess that's why you were hell bent on getting Tyler to change his mind about wanting to torture his ass. You didn't want anything to happen to your boss. In case there was a chance to make more money.”

“Are you kidding?” Mark laughs. “I was glad when we got rid of him. Means I didn't have to worry about him anymore.”

“You mean you didn't have to worry about him ratting you out,” Yaz concludes. “You realize that we're going to have to cut you loose, right? That this goes way beyond fucking things up. You were going to kill one of your own teammates. Or have someone else kill them. Like what the hell man? For what? Money? Or did this go beyond that? Was this a more personal thing? All because you didn't like the fact that your ex moved on?”

“I gotta get out of here,” Tyler pushes his chair away from the table, taking money from his wallet and tossing it down.

The anxiety is too far out of control; chest tightening, sweat beginning to gather at the small of his back and the nape of his back,  the faint quell of nausea as bile sits in his throat. And he's vaguely aware of the sarcastic, cutting comment Mark makes at expense as he leaves; strides long and purposeful as they take him across  the busy roof top patio and through the restaurant. Needing to get the hell away...away from the noise...away from the bright lights...away from all the people.  Jamming his finger repeatedly against the down button for the elevator; muttering curses and wiping sweat from his forehead with his forearm and trying to force himself to breathe.

“You okay?” Yaz is suddenly at his side, a concerned look on his face. “What's up? Talk to me?”

“I can't...it's like I can't fucking breathe....”

“Just take it easy.  That was a lot to fucking hear.  You got meds on you or....?”

“I don't need meds. I just need to get out of here. Where there's less noise and less people and...”

Yaz frowns as he glances around the empty hallway. “There's no one even out there. You want me to go with you? You don't look so good.”

He shakes his head. “I'll be fine. I just need to go...I don't know where I need to go...I just know I can't be here...”

“You're not going to do anything stupid are you? I mean, you've got all those guns in your room and...”

“I'm not going to fucking kill myself. I might kill him,” he nods in the direction of the restaurant. “But I'm not going to kill myself.”

“You should call home,” Yaz suggests. “Talk to Esme. She'll know how to talk you down.”

“I don't need to call home. I don't want her fucking worrying about this shit. She's got four kids to take care of and a baby to worry about...”

“And you're the father of those kids and that baby and she deserves to know when you're feeling like this.  Call home. Or I'll do it for you.”

“Stay out of it, Yaz. I know you're trying to help. But stay out of it. I'm trying to keep shit from falling apart. And the more I put on her, the more I'm going to push her away and the more it is going to fall apart.”

“That's bullshit and you know it. Go back to your room, call home, talk to your wife.”

The elevator finally arrives; allowing several people off before stepping into the empty cab.

“Call her!” Yaz orders.

“Stay out of it,” he shoots back, and slams his finger against the close door button.

****

By the time he returns to his room, the photos from Heather McMann have arrived; tucked in a brown paper envelope and stuck between the door and the frame. He'd expected an email or images sent through a text message, so he's surprised -albeit pleasantly- to find that she'd through such efforts to make sure he got exactly what he needed. Once inside he takes half a dozen anti anxiety pills and two Prozac instead of the normal one. And he feels no guilt or shame when he swallows them down with half a bottle of whisky from the bar, leaving the rest on the nightstand as he dumps the contents of the envelope onto the bed. Some of the photos have sticky notes on the back of the them; pointing out small details that he may not notice at first but she felt he needed to know about.  And while the photographs are promising and should be leaving him with more answers than questions, they just aren't enough. They don't put his frantic mind to rest; the conversation with Mark replaying in his mind, the feelings of rage and betrayal, the sense of doom that hangs over him like an ominous dark cloud.

He considers just packing it up and going home. Handing everything off to Yaz and telling him that he's done. Get someone else. That he's not feeling confident enough to get the job done. That his brain is too fucked up to fully focus on what needs to be done. That would be more dangerous than anything else; if he couldn't get his head on straight and commit himself one hundred percent, both he and those kids would die. There was no question about.  It would be best for everyone if he just left; if he accepted defeat just this once and admitted that he wasn't in any shape to carry this job out.

His private cell phone vibrates against his leg and he slips it from the side pocket of his cargos. At first he considers not answering; he's almost done the bottle of the booze and he's considering opening another and once he starts talking to her, he'll confess all his shortcomings and admit to all his bullshit and then it will cause a big old thing between them. She'll be pissed off. Disappointed. Not meaning to call him a failure but making him feel like one nonetheless.  He reminds himself that that's just bullshit; his brain trying to convince him that everyone...even her...is out to get him. She's never...even in the midst of his biggest fuck ups...made him feel like he was a complete and utter disaster.

So he answers it; catching it on the last ring before it goes to voice mail.

“Everything okay?” he asks in way of greeting. “You and the kids okay?”

“What the hell is going on, Tyler?” her response is straight to the point. Yet it's not anger in her voice. It's hurt. Confusion.  “Yaz just called. What is going on over there?”

“What did he tell you?”

“Something about Mark being involved with McMann and being the one that told McMann that we'd be at the house that day. That McMann offered him money for information? What the fuck, Tyler?”

“Okay, I'm going to need you to calm down. Less stress, remember? So just take it easy...”

“How the hell am I supposed to take it easy? You're thousands of miles away, getting ready to walk into some pretty dangerous shit with no proper help and no proper back up and...”

“Esme,” his tone is firm. “Calm down. We shouldn't even be talking about this. The kids...”

“The kids are outside with Ovi and Kyle. They can't hear a thing I'm saying. You need to start talking. You need to tell me what the fuck is happening before I get on the next plane to New Zealand. Because you damn well know I'll do it and I know it's the last thing you want. So you either start telling me what the hell is happening or I swear to God. Tyler, I will show up on your doorstep and there won't be a goddamn thing you can do stop me.”

“Are you going to calm down?” he inquires. “Because I'm not saying shit until you do. So you either calm down or you hang up and call me back when you have your shit together.”

“Don't fucking talk to me like that. I'm not one of your soldiers from your military days that you can boss around. I'm your wife. So don't be a condescending asshole and...”

“Esme!” he snaps. “Calm down or I'll hang up and I won't answer when you call back, understand me?”

“Don't..”

“Understand me?” he presses, and it's then that she takes a long, deep inhale, followed by a shaky, uneven exhale. “Are you good? Are you done flipping your shit on me? I need you stay calm. And that baby needs you stay calm. Do you want something happening? Because I don't”

“Of course I don't. But I also don't want anything happening to you. And if what Yaz said is true...”

“McMann gave Mark money...or at least offered him money...to tell him that we were going to be at the house.”

“But why? For what purpose? To kill you? So McMann wouldn't have to get his own hands dirty?”

“Apparently. And he told him even though Mark knew you'd be with me. Meaning if they'd gotten a hold of you...”

“And that's what really set you off. Yaz said you had a panic attack.”

“He should have kept his mouth shut.”

“No. He shouldn't have. You should stop assuming that I'm some weak and fragile little girl that can't handle these things. I've been handling them for five and a half years, Tyler. I spent months sleeping in a chair in a hospital, dealing with a lot worse than this. Having people constantly telling me that you weren't going to survive or that if you did you'd be brain damaged and I'd spend the rest of my life taking care of you. You think this is bad? This isn't half as bad as the things I heard and the things I was prepared to do. You always go on and on about how strong I am. Well start treating me like I am!”

He's surprised by the forcefulness in her voice.  

“You get so caught up thinking you constantly need to protect me. And I understand why you're like that. I do. We've been through a lot of together. We've been through some terribly shitty and scary things. But you don't need to be this way. It's frustrating and it's annoying and it's suffocating. And I don't know why you can't see that. You need to stop. More importantly, I need you to stop.  Stop protecting me and start trusting me that I can handle things.”

'You're right,” he reluctantly admits. “I know how much you hate it. The whole overprotective thing. And I don't mean to be that way. But I also can't help it. I can't stop wanting to keep you safe.”

“I'm not saying you need to stop. I'm saying you need to tone it down a bit. I'm not one of the people you get hired to get out of shitty situations.  Dhaka was five and a half years ago. You did what you needed to do. I survived. Now you need to start acting like we're not still stuck back there and you're still trying to find a way to get me out of there. You always tell me I need to let it go. Maybe there's parts of it you still need to let go too.”

He sighs heavily, then reaches for the bottle of whisky and drains it.

“What's going to happen now?” she asks. “With Mark??”

“I don't know. Nik can take care of that. She brought him into this, she can take him out of it.”

“I never should have asked him for help. If I'd never asked him...”

“Don't do that. This isn't your fault. You didn't know he was going to turn around and do something like this.”

“Still, if I hadn't have asked him...”

“Esme...stop. This isn't on you. You didn't know he was going to turn out like this. Let Nik take care of it. There's nothing either of us can do about him.”

“You could always kick the shit out of him.”

“I'm tempted. Believe me. Beyond tempted, even.”

“But you're okay, right? Because that's all that matters to me. That you've calmed down and you're okay.”

“Yeah,” he glances over at the empty whisky bottle. “I'm okay.”

“Is there any good news? Are you any closer to getting those kids and getting the fuck home? Because we kind of miss you here.”

“I miss you guys too. And I'd come home right now if I could. And maybe I should. Maybe I should just say 'fuck this' and tell Nik to find someone else. Because I'm so sick of this shit. I'm tired and I'm sore and I just want to see you and the kids. I've had enough. I can't do this anymore. This life. I just can't.”

“Tyler....”

“I can't...” he insists, and his voice finally cracks under the weight of the emotion that he's been carrying around. Is it weeks? Months? Years even? He doesn't know for sure. But the burden has been huge and heavy, and despite his best attempts, he just can't carry it any longer.  “...I can't do this...mentally...I just can't...I need to come home.  I'm no good to those kids if I stay. I can't get them out of there. Not when I'm like this.”

“Tyler...”

“It'll just make things worse,” he continues, letting both the words and the tears flow. “I can't get past it. What's going on in my head. There's so much going on and it won't leave me alone. It never leaves me alone. It's never quiet up there anymore and I can't take it.  I need it to be quiet. I need it to leave me alone and it won't if I stay here. It'll never leave me alone. And I can't live like this any longer. I just can't.”

“Come home,” she says. Simple. Straight to the point. “You need to come home.”

He nods in agreement, using the back of his hand to clear the tears off his face.  

“You've done enough. For other people. Now you need to come home and get better.”

“I can't do it by myself,” he admits.  “I know I can't.”

“You don't have to. You know that. You're not alone in this.  I'll help you.  And I wish I was there right now. I'd do anything to be there with you. You know that, right?”

“I do. I do know that.”

“Just come home, Tyler,” she says. “It's time to come home.”

[noisymiagy]

15 Smart Ways to Avoid Getting Sick When You Travel

Assume getting ill while you journey is inevitable? Think once more.

Extra than 2.5 million passengers board a plane within the united states alone each and each day. And whilst many are looking forward to sitting on a beach somewhere getting a sun-kissed glow, limitless others will experience a much less-exceptional holiday side impact: getting unwell.

Among recycled air, questionable food, and jet lag, vacationers regularly locate that their immune systems are down for the remember, making their trip depressing within the manner. And while hand-washing can assist restriction a number of the germs you stumble upon on your travels, there's only a lot a sink and some soap can do. However,  just due to the fact you've got continued sidelining tour illness before would not imply you need to once more.

We've got rounded up 28 clever ways to avoid getting unwell while you travel. So examine on, and live happier and more healthy in your subsequent adventure.

1-Sanitize Surfaces—Starting on the Plane

At the same time as cleaning crews do their first-class to preserve the plane easily, they can't tackle each germ. If you need to avoid getting ill from the germs left at the back of by means of different passengers, there is an easy answer: sanitize.

"while journeying, your palms turn out to be 'fomites,' which can be gadgets that switch germs picked up from touching surfaces," says dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, m.D., founder of dr. Bailey pores and skincare. Her concept? "travel with hand sanitizer wipes! Constantly wipe down the arms, far-flung, seat belt clip, and all tough buttons or systems you contact in your seat. Then discard the wipe. Use a brand new one for your palms." and while you want to live secure at some stage in your travels

2-Stay Hydrated on the Plane

That stale airplane air can quickly depart someone feeling dehydrated and commonly worse for put on. Fortuitously, consuming the proper ingredients can help fight this very quickly.

"I advocate ingesting mild and water-crammed foods, inclusive of a small salad and a chunk of fruit, and drinking lots of water on the aircraft because the air humidity is lots lower than our normal surroundings and it is so clean to end up dehydrated," says Dr. Tara Nayak, nd, a Philadelphia-based naturopathic doctor. And in case you need to hydrate extra healthily, high-tail it to one of the 25 US Towns with the fine ingesting water.

3-Get Your Shots

Earlier than you even e book your journey, ensure you are up to date on your shots. If you're visiting to a place where you're at danger for selecting up an illness like malaria, you is probably prescribed preventative medicine, as properly. "humans should use the cdc internet site for advocated vaccines with travel or see a travel health facility," recommends dr. Christina bowen, a board-certified integrative own family medication medical doctor.

4-Avoid Ice

In case you're going to a place wherein you have the motive to be concerned approximately the water quality, ensure to order your liquids with out ice. Even after freezing, tons of the micro organism and different contaminants inside the water, along with lead, will nonetheless remain. "do no longer order ice if the water's in question," says Dr. Bowen. "and most effective drink bottled drinks."

5-Get Up Periodically Throughout Your Flight

In case you're in for a protracted flight before you reach your vacation spot, ensure you get up periodically to stretch your legs.

"it's far critical to break up long plane rides or long vehicle rides via getting up often to move round and stretch. This could assist decrease your danger of blood clots. It could also save you again from aching after you have been slouching for hours within the equal role in a tiny seat," says Dr. Jasmine Marcus, DPT.

6-Load Up On the Right Vitamins

Want to reduce your risk of getting sick even before you touch down? The right supplements can help. "I always take a bit of vitamin A and vitamin D before boarding a plane to improve my immune function," says Dr. Nayak. 

7-Add Some Probiotics to Your Routine

While you can't always control the number of illness-causing bacteria in your environment while you travel, you can control how your body responds. "While on vacation, I always up my dose of probiotics to make my body less friendly to invading bacteria!" says Dr. Nayak.

8-Skip the Booze on Your Flight

While having a cocktail to ease the stress of your flight may seem appealing, if you want to avoid getting sick, it's best to abstain. "I advise strongly against drinking alcohol while aboard a plane! I know it's tempting to get your vacation started but it only contributes to dehydration," says Dr. Nayak. Worse yet, alcohol can contribute to jet lag, leaving you sleep-deprived and at greater risk for illness.

9-Get Plenty of Sleep

While it may be tempting to stay up and explore, getting a good night's rest when you arrive at your destination will reduce your likelihood of getting sick in the long run. Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered a link between sleep deprivation and a suppressed immune system, so make sure to catch those Zs whenever you can.

10-Stick to Your Exercise Routine

Suppose you can skimp on exercising simply due to the fact you are on excursion? Assume once more. Researchers at the college of illinois, urbana-champaign have located that exercising can lessen the chance of developing breathing tract infections and shorten their duration, so ensure you're not skipping the gym.

11-Bring Mosquito Netting

If you're traveling to an area with a high risk of mosquito-borne illness, make sure you pack mosquito netting, recommends Dr. Bowen. Not only will this help you reduce your risk of these potentially-deadly illnesses, knowing you have an extra layer of protection may also improve your sleep.

12-Load Up on Vitamin C-Rich Foods

The proper snack can make all the difference in how wholesome you are—and stay—while journeying. Flip to nutrition c-wealthy foods, like citrus fruit and bell peppers, to maintain that immune machine going robust. Researchers at the University of Otago in Christchurch, New Zealand have located that nutrition c now not simplest boosts immune function, assisting folks who load up on it lessen their threat of turning into unwell but also enables shorten the period of positive breathing ailments.

13-Cover Up

Preserving your pores and skin covered while you're on a  journey permits you to avoid serious sunburns that could in any other case sideline you. "put on defensive apparel, like long sleeves and pants which have a breathable cloth, in hot regions," suggests Dr. Bowen.

14-Increase Your Fiber Intake

One clean way to hold yourself healthy while you journey? "get masses of fiber!" says dr. Nayak. "I suggest eating as plenty of clean fruit and vegetables as you may even as on holiday unless you are involved approximately infection! A breakfast of clean fruit with a chunk of protein is first-rate as you may be imparting your body with diet c and other minerals and vitamins that useful resource immunity."

15-Stick to a Nutritious Diet

Maintaining good health while you travel starts somewhere surprising: your gut. "Proper nutrition with a focus on good gut health will help our immune systems," says Dr. Bowen. Fiber-rich foods, as well as ones rich in probiotics, like yogurt, pickles, and kimchi, will all help feed your healthy gut bacteria, boosting your immune system in the process. 

“ Vacation is all about relaxing, but for many people, travel is a stressful experience in and of itself. Unfortunately, if you find yourself stressed out on your trip, you may be at greater risk for illness.“ so relax and enjoy your moment.

[scarletheart333-blog]

people: Maori

In the 1980s, the independent label Flying Nun Records had a lasting influence on the rock sector. While groups such as The Chills, The Clean, The Verlaines and Tall Dwarfs shaped the so-called Dunedin Sound, Bailter Space from Christchurch are still among the best-known representatives of New Zealand's noise rock today. Since 2000 there is also a free trade agreement with Singapore. This was extended to Chile and Brunei in 2005 and is now known as the P4 Agreement.

What is Kapa Haka?

The area of New Zealand is almost as large as that of Germany, but with about 4.5 million inhabitants it is much less populated (Germany has about 82 million). The country is divided into two similar large and elongated islands, which are connected by a ferry.

Perhaps New Zealand's most beautiful bird was almost extinct before conservation programmes stabilised its species. The white egret with its snow-white plumage and turquoise circles around the eyes is found throughout the South Pacific, but it only breeds in Whataroa, north of Franz Josef Glacier. There are not only traditional sandwiches with ham, sausages, cheese and salad, but also wraps. Their filling is often a mixture of European and Asian ingredients and spices. Read more about campervan hire New Zealand here.

Although the beginnings of rugby actually come from the state schools of England, rugby in New Zealand is the national sport of the "average Kiwi".performing arts - or Kapa Haka- of Māori includes songs, rhythmic dances and the wild Haka (war dance). The new Haka is said to have been developed over more than a year and in cooperation with many experts in the culture of Māori. and called it "Aotearoa" - the land of the long white cloud. Valuable jewellery and traditional weapons can be viewed and in some cases purchased in museums, galleries and artists' studios throughout the country. Many of the techniques used in carving and weaving have hardly changed for centuries and can be seen in numerous demonstrations. By the way, if you find a piece of jewellery made of Pounamu (New Zealand jade) that you like, have someone else buy it for you - according to legend, New Zealand jade brings luck to the wearer when it is given away. The wild landscape has not yet been tamed in every respect, dangerous places are

Māori Culture

To visit a marae, you must be part of a tour. In the countryside there are fewer or, apart from the rare Katipo spider, hardly any dangerous animal species. In New Zealand more than 1100 spider species live from the worldwide known ca spider species. The puffer fish is not only found under water. A Japanese dish called "Fugu" consists of parts of the pufferfish. If it is not cleanly cut up, it can happen that people die. Ask your health insurance company or book travel insurance online. Fees may vary depending on deductible, age, nationality and other travel destinations. {

What dangerous animals are there in New Zealand?

Dangerous animals in New Zealand In the countryside there are fewer or, apart from the rare Katipo spider, hardly any dangerous animal species. In New Zealand more than 1100 spider species live from the c

[hvacclean]

Experienced HVAC CLEANERS Christchurch & Surrounds

We offer various solutions to make sure your air conditioner works well. Our specialists focus on keeping commercial air conditioners in top shape. We're a fully trained team of experts who can assist with all kinds of HVAC systems.

[persona-evo-blog]

neuseeland essen einführen (1)

What New Zealand driving licence required?

Dangerous animals in New Zealand In the countryside there are fewer or, apart from the rare Katipo spider, hardly any dangerous animal species. In New Zealand more than 1100 spider species live from the 40 000 spider species known worldwide so far. Only a few are weakly poisonous.

Around the free-standing volcano there is a wide rainforest belt, which is protected by the Egmont National Park. The region is very fertile and a centre of New Zealand's milk production. The 113,729 km² North Island is the more densely populated island of New Zealand.

6th The right first aid kit for Australia and New Zealand

Please check with your health insurance company or health insurance provider whether there is adequate health insurance cover for your trip abroad, which also covers the costs of an emergency flight to Germany. The risk of falling victim to an attack is still comparatively low compared to other risks involved in travelling abroad, such as accidents, illness or ordinary crime. Nevertheless, travellers should be aware of the danger. Import bans or restrictions apply to weapons, including certain types of knives. Monthly Overview The national women's team has already taken part in four football world championships. In the 1980s, the independent label Flying Nun Records had a lasting influence on the rock sector. While groups such as The Chills, The Clean, The Verlaines and Tall Dwarfs shaped the so-called Dunedin Sound, Bailter Space from Christchurch are still among the best-known representatives of New Zealand's noise rock. At night the thermometer already drops below the 10°C mark. A thick jacket is the right choice, as the temperatures can sometimes be much lower. It rains on average seven days. Read more about campervan hire New Zealand here. At the same time, you should carry the medication in its original packaging, which should have your name on it. The rule is that if you are not sure about anything, you should declare it and discuss it with the biosecurity staff. They are already used to it and will ask you routine questions, you don't have to be afraid. If the liquid is needed during the flight for medical or dietary reasons or if it is baby food, it may be taken on board. {

[inactivvvvvvve]

Germany » New Zealand distance, distance, distance, kilometres

The entire road network covered about 93,870 km in 2013, of which 75,754 km are asphalted. [15] New Zealand's traffic rules are regulated in the New Zealand Road Code. According to this code, left-hand traffic applies, a maximum speed of 50 km/h in urban areas and usually 100 km/h outside towns. In 1861 large gold deposits were discovered on the South Island, which led to the gold rush in Otago.

climate and best travel time for the North Island of New Zealand

What vaccination is required for New Zealand?

Dangerous animals in New Zealand In the country there are fewer or, apart from the rare Katipo spider, hardly any dangerous animal species. In New Zealand more than 1100 spider species live from the 40 000 spider species known worldwide so far. Only a few are weakly poisonous.

Brisbane, a city of over a million inhabitants, is located around 70 kilometres north of the "Gold Coast", a coastal region popular with beach holidaymakers and surfers. The famous Great Barrier Reef extends in front of the coastline. He was voted Oceania's Footballer of the Century by Werder Bremen in the German Bundesliga and has been involved in national and international successes.

A bath in the sea is still a little fresh at an average of 17°C. In any case, thick jackets and long trousers belong to the luggage. Many of the "Great Walks" in the south of the South Island are not yet open in November due to too much snow in the mountains. July is the coolest month of the year with daytime temperatures around 13°C. Also at night the values are around six degrees.

The city offers its visitors pleasant temperatures almost all year round, but slightly higher rainfall than in Central Europe.

>The flights are easier to handle and we can spend a few more days in the beautiful SOA.best time to travel to New Zealand depends on what you want to do.

This has nothing to do with the residence permit in New Zealand for tourists, sorry if I misunderstood.

How long does the flight from Hannover to the Maldives take?

How much does the Australia flight cost From Europe there are many airlines flying to Australia. On average, a flight to Australia in economy class costs about 1000 Euro. In the months from July to August it can cost up to 1500 Euro. the navigation and safety of the region's ports and marine pollution. New Zealand currently welcomes around 45,000 immigrants per year. The country's immigration system operates according to a scoring system, which refers not only to a candidate's education but also to previous employment. The men's national team, known as the All Whites, qualified for the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa after the 1982 World Cup, where they finished unbeaten in third place in their group ahead of defending champions Italy. In the 1980s, the independent label Flying Nun Records had a lasting influence on the rock sector. While groups such as The Chills, The Clean, The Verlaines and Tall Dwarfs shaped the so-called Dunedin Sound, Bailter Space from Christchurch still count among the most important bands in the world today.

[icedcoffeetrees]

Navigating the Ocean of Crowdsourcing and Social Capital in a Crisis

Back in 2006, Jeff Howe wrote a story about some outsourced images and used the term crowdsourcing to describe how organisations used the internet to source goods and services. Crowdsourcing is described by Wilson, Bhakoo and Samson as an organisation taking a task and outsourcing it to a network of providers, usually large crowds (2018, pp.1467-1468). Howe revisits his initial article in 2013 to demonstrate the success story of Japan’s Muji and describe an oncoming trend, as big jobs are converted to many smaller ones to be crowdsourced.

Hossain & Kauranen (2015, pp.2-3) explain well-known projects of the past have used crowdsourcing principles. An example of this was the Longitude Prize during the eighteenth century, with the realisation of the advantage of successful and accurate navigation of the oceans.

Not all modern examples are a roaring success, though. Cappuccino flavoured chips by Frito Lay are a pretty good example of the crowd taking the Michael.

Crowdsourcing in the 21st century generates game-changing platforms like GE’s Fuse, which has been used to pool innovations that tackle technical problems like data collection from machinery around the world (Kloberdanz 2017). Equally impressive is the Ushahidi platform, which has become an acclaimed platform helping people gain a voice or assistance(Ford 2012, pp.34-35). During the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, volunteers in New Zealand and abroad used Ushahidi to help with information on road conditions, supplies and services in conjunction with Twitter hashtags. #eqnz or #helpme (McMurren, Verhulst & Young 2016, pp.7-8).

In an article for the Australian Journal of Emergency Management, the potential for refining crowdsourcing and microtasking in emergency management was explored. Previous successes utilising mobile telephony and social media to better harness crowdsourced information from the public were explained. However, the authors expressed the need of good digital citizenship in the fair treatment of paid overseas contributors (Poblet, Fitzpatrick & Chhetri 2017, pp.48-52).

Having previously been an active member of the SES for many years, I’ve seen the importance of trust and community resilience during challenging times when people fear they’ve lost everything. Tapping and combining the social capital existing as a result of social media and emergency preparedness can reverse some of the capital lost through technology use and discussed here. 

An article regarding Victoria’s Community Fireguard showed how the program developed a sense of preparedness and strong social bonds within communities (MacDougall, Gibbs & Clarke 2014, p.264). Social capital developed within programs where the community works together using social media helps to build upon bonding and bridging types of social capital (Siapera 2012, pp.203-204). 

Crowdsourcing, whether it be paid assistance or free, is a brand new ocean for organisations to navigate and seek advantage. It has applications across business and essential services, including emergency services. In some instances, it can contribute to the trust and resilience within communities, whether large or small, real world or digital.   

Have you used crowdsourcing before?

References

Daniel Szesniak 2011, Christchurch Earthquake - Live 2011/02/22, 6 April, viewed 31 January 2019, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMAT7jaEYEg>.

CFA 2019, Community Fireguard, Country Fire Authority, viewed 31 January 2019, <https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/community-fireguard>.

Ford, H 2012 ‘Crowd wisdom’, Index on Censorship, vol.41, no.4, pp.33-39.

Hossain, M & Kauranen, I 2015 ‘Crowdsourcing: a comprehensive literature review’, Strategic Outsourcing: An International Journal, vol. 8, no.1, pp.2-22.

Howe, J 2006, The Rise of Crowdsourcing, Wired, viewed 29 January 2019, < https://www.wired.com/2006/06/crowds/>.

Howe J 2013, Crowdsourcing-Now at a store near you, Wired, viewed 29 January 2019, <https://www.wired.com/2013/04/crowdsourcing/>.

Kawamoto, K & KIM, K 2019, ‘Efficiencies of bonding, bridging and linking social capital: Cleaning up after disasters in Japan’, International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, Volume 33, February 2019, Pages 64-73

Kloberdanz, K 2017, Working The Crowd: This Fuse Will Set The Collective Brain On Fire, GE Reports, viewed 31 January 2019, < https://www.ge.com/reports/working-crowd-fuse-will-set-collective-brain-fire/>.

MacDougall, C, Gibbs, l & Clark, R 2014, ‘Community‐based preparedness programmes and the 2009 Australian bushfires: policy implications derived from applying theory’, Disasters, vol.38, no.2, pp. 249-266.

McMurren, J, Verhulst, S & Young, A 2016, Open data’s use after Christchurch earthquakes, Govlab, Omidyar Network, viewed 29 January 2019, <http://odimpact.org/files/case-studies-new-zealand.pdf>.

Poblet, M, Fitzpatrick, M & Chhetri, P 2017, ‘Microtasking: redefining crowdsourcing practices in emergency management’, Australian Journal of Emergency Management, vol 32, no. 2, pp. 47-53.

Siapera, E 2012, ‘Socialities and Social Media’, in Understanding New Media, Sage, London, pp. 191-208.

Wilson, KB, Bhakoo, V & Samson, D 2018 ‘Crowdsourcing: A contemporary form of project management with linkages to open innovation and novel operations’, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 38, no. 6, pp.1467-1494.

Zetlin, M 2016, The 5 Worst Crowdsourced Ideas of All Time, Inc, viewed 1 February 2019, <https://www.inc.com/minda-zetlin/the-5-biggest-crowdsourcing-fails-of-all-time-.html>.

[toxoiddiamond]

T H E B A S I C S Given Name: Manaia Ngatoko Nicknames: Mana, Manny (but only Nick is allowed to call him that) Age: 45 Birthday: December 2nd Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius Birthplace: Christchurch, New Zealand Current Location: Auckland, New Zealand Speaks: Te Reo Maori, English Dominant Hand: Right Education: Graduated from the University of Auckland with a degree in Early Childhood Development, then went on to get his Master’s degree in Teaching. Occupation: He teaches kids in year one and two (5-7 year olds) at Newmarket Primary School, and also teaches an Early Childhood Development class at the Imperial College of New Zealand. Vehicle: 2002 Kia Sportage in silver Worldly Possessions: Things They Own Pet(s): Two cats– one a Russian Blue named Ozzy, and the other a Bombay Cat named Zeppelin.

A P P E A R A N C E Height: Just over 6’ Hair: Thick and wavy/curly, mostly gray with some dark hair mixed in. Facial Hair: Yes, but he keeps it pretty short and well-maintained. It’s very salt-and-peppery, though his beard has stayed darker than his hair. Eye Colour: Dark brown Skin Tone: Definitely brown, with olive undertones. He tends to get much darker in the summer since he spends much more time outdoors. Clothing: He dresses casually the vast majority of the time, but he always looks pulled-together. He’s a fan of jeans and t-shirts (he has a large collection of band tees), and when he’s at work, he’ll usually throw on a button-up or a nice sweater so he looks more professional. Distinguishing Marks: Some scars here and there from various childhood injuries. A more noticeable/distinctive scar on his abdomen from having his appendix out as a teenager. Face Claim: Taika Waititi

H E A L T H Physical Health: Pretty dang good. He’s not a health fanatic or anything, but he does take decent care of himself. He exercises on a regular basis, generally eats well, and doesn’t get sick very often. He does have some issues with high blood pressure, which he now takes medication for– but other than that, he’s in good health. Physical Abilities/Limitations: He can play the guitar, and often makes up songs for his students either to help them learn or make them laugh. He’s a strong swimmer and goes swimming whenever he gets the opportunity. Addictions: None Allergies: Lucky for him, none. Mental Health: Not bad. Mana is, for the most part, an optimist, and always tries to see the best in any given situation. He has experienced depression in the past, especially after his divorce and after his younger sister’s death, but his mental health is very stable in general.

H I S T O R Y Summary: Long or Short Job History: His first job was at a commercial cleaning company, during college– it fit with his schedule well since he could go to his classes during the day and work at night. When he looks back on it, he’s not sure how he managed to get by with so little sleep. His next job was at a daycare center, which helped him build some experience working with children. He did enjoy the work and liked being around the kids, but he didn’t stay for very long, since he was soon hired by Newmarket Primary School, where he has now taught for about 20 years. Fondest Memories: Going to summer camp every year as a kid and getting to see his best friend Nick. Volunteering as a counselor at that same camp, along with Nick, once they were too old to actually be campers. Various trips to visit Nick, or times when Nick was able to come and visit him. His wedding day (though that memory is bittersweet now). The births of his children. All the fun visits/trips with Nick and the kids. Basically any memory with Nick, honestly~ Worst Experiences: His appendix bursting when he was thirteen and landing him in the hospital for nearly two weeks (though he had a lot of fun recounting the story, and all the grizzly details, to all his friends later). His mother dying of an aneurysm when Mana was twenty. His divorce from his wife (although it wasn’t an ugly divorce by any means, it was still hard on them, especially the kids). His younger sister dying in a car accident.

C O M M U N I C A T I O N Speech Pace/Style: Smooth Talker Accent: Perhaps British.. or Southern Favorite Phrases or Words: Like ‘Jiminy Christmas!’ Usual Curse Words: F U U U U U U C K

P E R S O N A L I T Y, M I N D S E T, A N D B E L I E F S Personality Type: Myer Briggs Sense of Humor: Funny or Lame Habits: Nail Bitter or Something Quirks: Something Fears/Phobias: Something Strengths: Something Flaws: Something Hopes/Desires: Something Wildest Fantasy: Something Self-Esteem: Something Religion: Something

R A N D O M Sleeping Position: Something Boxers or Briefs?: Something Day or Night?: Something Top or Bottom?: Something Partying or Relaxing?: Something

R E L A T I O N S H I P S Closest Friend: Something Relationship History: Something Sexual Partners: Something Thoughts About Sex: Something

P A R E N T S Name(s): Tamati Ngatoko, Mila Ngatoko Age(s): His father is 70. His mother passed away at the age of 43. Social Standing: Blue collar, white collar, whatever Occupation(s): What they do Religion: What do they believe Quality of Relationship With His Children: Is good or bad? Living/Deceased: Maybe they dead

S I B L I N G (S) Name(s): Kora King, Hana Ngatoko Age(s): Kora is 47, and Hana passed away at the age of 32. Social Standing: Blue collar, white collar, whatever Occupation(s): What they do Religion: What do they believe Quality of Relationship with Character: Is good or bad? Living/Deceased: Maybe they dead

C H I L D R E N Name(s): Aria Ngatoko, Kauri Ngatoko, Willow Ngatoko Age(s): Aria is 17, Kauri is 12, and Willow is nearly 3. Interests: Aria is a pretty average 17-year-old– she’s very outgoing, she likes to hang out with her friends, go shopping, she’s very boy-crazy and has a new boyfriend every few weeks, etc. She took an interest in coding as a young teen and now plans to major in computer science and hopefully find work in video game development. Kauri has been in dance classes since he was about three years old, and has now tried out many different styles of dance. His favorites are contemporary and ballet. He’s a lot more shy and reserved than Aria and doesn’t tend to make friends as easily. Willow is technically Mana’s niece, but he adopted her after his younger sister passed away, leaving a three-month-old Willow with no one to care for her. She is now a toddler who enjoys splashing in mud puddles, randomly screaming, climbing on anyone who stands still long enough, and launching herself off of furniture in order to give Mana a heart attack. Quality of Relationship with Character: Mana absolutely adores all of his children and is immensely proud of them. They love Mana as well, though Aria is definitely in the middle of her “oh-my-god-my-dad-is-so-embarrassing” phase.

D A I L Y L I F E Living Arrangements: Where they live

[hvacclean]

Our team at HVAC Clean provides a dependable air conditioner cleaning service for commercial customers across Auckland. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or to arrange an appointment.

[urbancare2021]

We offer move-out cleaning services with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee and Bond Back Guarantee (Please T&C). We are known to perform spotless cleaning on any kind of property.

Book a service now!

p: 092420740

w: www.urbancare.co.nz

e: hello@urbancare.co.nz

a: Auckland|Wellington|Christchurch