#New Zealand Travel Agent

[sarahtravelshappy]

Some of the World's Best Places to Visit

With a world full of fascinating destinations, choosing the perfect vacation spot can present a challenge. That’s why U.S. News used expert opinions, reader votes and current trends – and evaluated sights, cultures, scenic beauty, food options and more – to compile this list of the world’s best places to visit. Use these recommendations to craft your travel bucket list. While the top 4 are…

[ghumindiaghum]

Explore the breathtaking #landscapes and vibrant culture of #NewZealand with our meticulously crafted tour packages. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of lush green #valleys, majestic mountains, and pristine lakes.

[touris]

Qualities to look for in a travel agent you can rely on

You're in the right place if you want to book Maldives travel packages in Auckland. A travel agent is a person who has taken it upon himself to help people collect things such as travel documents, air tickets, Hotel reservations, tour packages, and many other services that travelers and holidaymakers need.

Travel agents set up travel agencies from where they render their Services to clients.

Resourcefulness

One of the good qualities of a travel agent is that he must be resourceful. In the travel sector, things could change at short notice. A flight can get canceled. A client can miss his flight or forget his luggage. The collection of a document may get delayed. The travel agent finds a fast and smart way to Get rid of any inconvenience that has been caused.

The best travel agent Auckland can also solve any problem that may have occurred in good time.

Honesty

A travel agent should be honest, and his integrity must be above board. for instance, if there is a delay in securing or getting something ready, the travel agent must be honest with the client in relaying the notification to them.

There is no need to lie to buy time because it can be too late, and the traveler can face more inconveniences.

A travel agent has marketing skills.

The travel agent also has some marketing skills. He can market what he is doing to attract clients. If not, the client will trickle. There is work all through the year, but people still travel. A travel agent can help you book the best cheap hotels Auckland New Zealand.

Meet the expectations of the travelers

Travelers expect that whatever they need, the travel agent can get it for them as long as the services get listed in their advertisement. A good travel agent can manage the expectations of the client. Even when there are hiccups, travelers can still manage the situation and get a solution before the date.

If a document gets ready in two weeks, as per the schedule at one embassy, the agent will tell the client that it will get ready in three weeks. If there is a delay, the agent can still have a week within which he can manage.

[13thdoctorposts]

Michelle Gomez Panel

Please note this IS NOT word for word, but so you can get a general gist of the panel. Both Michelle and Sacha were hilarious.

Whovians of all ages got to ask Michelle questions.

This post is just Michelle’s panel I’ll make separate posts for them together and Sacha’s panel soon!

How’s your New Zealand accent?

Bad I only have one and it’s Scottish I’ve been working on it my entire life… so 27 years. Lol

What was your favourite episode of Doctor Who to film?

I went to set and there was an army Daleks of every variety, and I stuck my 8 year old son in one and they started filming and I didn’t know were he was just that he in was in a Dalek.

Would you like to be in the new series of Doctor Who?

Hell yes, I’m just waiting for the call.

In Who and Sabrina you play a define feminine who was wronged by others what was your motivation to play these kind of villains?

With my face it’s hard not to plays witches and bitches and I long to play a character called Alison but Madam it is. I want to make sure I’m not just playing bad, I believe people are the way they are because of their experiences, so what makes them bad? That’s what interests me in the characters.

Did you like sitting on the throne of hell in Sabrina?

I loved sitting on it and wish I could have taken it home, I would have made room for it.

Did you Ad lib much in Doctor Who?

Steven Moffatt is a phenomenal writer so there’s not much you could add to it. But sometimes on the day something would fit. But Moffatt wrote to my strengths so I didn’t feel I needed to.

Why did you want to help the Doctor?

There’s a thing called a frenemy, keep your enemy’s close. They were originally friends and like all relationships they go through good times and bad times and sometimes they go their different ways. The master went to the dark side and the Doctor went to that other side. I was trying to bring in the nuance to that relationship

If you make it to the new series will you still help the Doctor?

No

If you put Missy and Lilith in a room together would they plot world domination or try to kill each other?

I think they would try each others costumes on. Once I wanted to bust of of Missy’s costume and it was hot so I took the top layer off and thought I’d just wear the petty coats in the scene, and Steven Moffatt was like… what are you doing? This is a children’s show, put your clothes back on. Lol. Lilith got lots of incredible costumes.

Being the last of the Timelords do you think the Master and the Doctor ever had a child?

Wow, I don’t know, I’m not sure the Doctor and the Master have those bits. They’re like Barbie and Ken. The first thing you do with a figurine of yourself is check.

What would you have changed about Missy’s costume?

I don’t think it could have been more Missy, it was a phenomenal image. It sent the message that Mary Poppin’s was the most evil woman in the Universe. There was a corset and after lunch I did hate the costume.

How did you get the role of Missy?

I was offered another part but I was doing psycho bitches at the time so I wrote to Steven Moffatt if you need a villainess I’m your man. Then a couple months later my agent called, said to sit down and that Steven was offering me the role of the Master, I was blown away. I might have planted the seed, I’d like to take credit for it.

If you could travel with any other Doctor and torment them who would it be?

Tom Baker

Do you like being the villain of Doctor Who?

I do. If anyone is listening I do, I would like to come back, stop fucking around, I’m available.

There’s episodes with multiple Doctors why can’t we have multiple Masters?

Because there’s only one! Although Sacha is quite good, I like Sacha.

Were you nervous the first time you were on TV?

Yeah, that was a long time ago on a show called The Bill and I played a ticket warden. The director said to do a banana around the car and slap a ticket on the window. I didn’t know what a ‘banana’ was so I acted like I was slipping on a banana, landed on the ground, the crew looked at me and I just jumped up and they told me what I actually needed to do.

What was your favourite part of being chaotic and fun with your Missy?

They let me piss about with focus, I could be physically free, I could dance and bounce a lot.

Can you share a funny moment on Doctor Who?

I was nervous, it was my first day, Peter and Jenna were there, when I get nervous I over compensate so I grabbed Peter, it’s like I go into some kind of black out, I threw him against the wall and snogged him, had my hand behind my back, because I knew that would make a nice visual, Jenna Coleman took my hand, that was my first 5 mins, it was weird.

What was it like being on set with Peter?

When I was younger I’d see Peter around and he was so cool like the David Bowie of paisley. And I looked up to him. When we started working together I felt like I already knew him, we had an instant short hand, so we crack each other up.

Shouting from the back…

Sacha: Oh so boring!

Michelle: SECURITY, SECURITY!

*Coming soon… there will be a part 2 with both of them and 3 with Sacha… I just don’t have time to post now.

[allwaswell16]

One Direction fics with similar vibes to the fic Beautiful War by itsmotivatingcara which is also listed below and as requested in this ask. If you enjoy the fics, please leave kudos and comments for the writers! You can find my other fic recs here. Happy reading!

Beautiful War by @itsmotivatingcara (M, 103k)

Five years ago, Louis was nearly the next victim in a string of murders plaguing Portland, Oregon. He managed to escape and the Angel Killer was apprehended and sent to prison. Now, Louis' a best-selling author that assists state police with minor cases. He still suffers from the events of the days he'd been held hostage, but he's found ways to cope.

That is, until the killings start up again. A body was found in the woods. A body that bared the same signature the media had dubbed: The Angel of Death.

Special Agent Harry Styles leads the case, and he doesn't buy into the clairvoyant bullshit that Louis spewed to save face five years ago. He's certain that Louis Tomlinson was involved.

Until they meet, and they're both left questioning everything they'd thought to be true.

Or An FBI-Clairvoyant AU

—Harry/Louis—

☽ If these walls could talk by louislittlesuns

(M, 94k, murder mystery) Harry and inspector Tomlinson get caught in a frantic race against time to solve the murder and stop rumours from spreading.

☽ Black with Autumn Rain by whimsicule

(T, 93k, magical realism) Harry is a journalist, Louis has lots of secrets and the moors aren't exactly the ideal place to rekindle a lost romance.

☽ technicolor by @creamcoffeelou

(E, 81k, serial murders) The slow-burn, hate-to-love, crime au where Harry is a psychic, Louis is a detective, and the world is against them.

☽ Baby, I think we might be too cold to float by @forreveries

(M, 81k, murder mystery) Harry is a journalist that goes to Lake Tekapo, New Zealand, to look into a girl’s disappearance after a year of no movement from police. 

☽Derail the Mind of Me by pleasinglouis / @pleasing-louis

(E, 77k, Criminal Minds au) The Behavioral Analysis Unit gets called in to help a small town police department find the killer leaving behind a string of victims with a particularly jarring signature. 

☽ knives don't have your back by @turnyourankle

(M, 51k, uni au) The lone survivor of an on campus massacre that claimed the lives of his four housemates, Harry is urged to take a sabbatical or transfer. Instead, he chooses to stay in school, move into the dorms, and overcome his fears.

☽ Close to Nowhere by angelichl / @loveletterharry

(E, 34k, paranormal investigators) Louis and Harry are psychics who kind of hate each other. They go to Tennessee to investigate a haunting.

☽ once upon a dream by thedeathchamber / @louehvolution

(E, 33k, Medium/Criminal Minds au) Louis is psychic and gets caught in the middle of a murder investigation led by FBI Special Agent Harry Styles.

☽ Red Sun Rises (Like an Early Warning) by JessHallvol6

(E, 32k, psychic Harry) Kingsbrew Hill has a lot of things. An old record shop, a library, and plenty of rain. It also has three unsolved missing persons cases.

☽ Etched in Salt (is a cathedral of the world) by @helloamhere

(E, 24k, crime solving) Louis asks for very few things in life, and they are: to solve cases, to keep bad people from doing their bad things, to get good coffee, to go home to a spacious apartment with nobody else in it, and to manage his stupid telempathy powers with minimal interference.

☽ my solitude ain't the same no more by cinemayougot

(M, 10k, historical) Louis is a traveling homicide detective who goes to the small town of Holmes Chapel to investigate the murder of a young woman.

—Rare Pairs—

☽ Be Still by thisonegoes

(E, 150k, Zayn/Harry) Detective Zayn AU.

☽ your crimes are quiet, my love by lightswoodmagic / @lightwoodsmagic

(E, 97k, Zayn/Liam) A darker Miss Congeniality AU that follows Zayn and Liam, MI5 agents, partners since training and best friends, as they race to stop a serial killer.

[ourdreamsareneon]

Piggy backing off my last post, if much like in 2016 you're going "I should just move to New Zealand" head my warning, little yanky

People are not going to like you. People will hear the accent and either think you're a Trump supporter or a stereotypical stoner valley dude with half a brain cell.

Learn a bit of Te Reo Maori. You don't have to learn a lot, just your basic greetings, but you should learn place names and pronunciation

There was a huge cover-up in 1948 when a group of American service men tried to stop Maori bar patrons from coming inside. Naturally, both white and Maori patrons beat the shit out of them. The fight involved hundreds of people. As far as we know, two people died in the Battle of Manners Street, both Americans. This was during an event called the American Invasion, where Aotearoa asked for British aid during the war and were sent Americans instead. Americans who were documented as mostly sitting around, being incredibly racist, and assaulting our wāhine. So maybe don't walk down Manners Street at night. It might be haunted, I dunno.

While you're looking at Te Reo, look a bit into Tapu and Noa. This is about things that are considered sacred, but it also just gives you good kiwi manners, like taking your shoes off when you go into someone's house and not sitting on tables.

Learn how to tō waha - shut up. All I hear from the Americans I've met living in Aotearoa is that the second they go home, they realise how loud Americans are. Take a deep breath, listen to nature, and lower your voice

Did you know ANZUS is no longer a mutual agreement of power because America got upset that Aotearoa is nuclear free and so didn't allow any US naval ships into port after 1984 because they had a policy of not confirming or denying if they have nuclear weapons on board? They're still kinda holding a grudge against us for it and disolved a whole allyship over it! All that to say, in 1987, we formalised our anti-nuclear stance, so whether travelling by air or by ocean, please keep all your W.M.Ds at home! (Bill Clinton reinstated our allyship in 1996 and gave us the status of "Major non-NATO ally" but that's the year my sister was born so I don't acknowledge it)

It's crazy that America is so anti-terrorism but when the French sunk the Rainbow Warrior in July 1985 and everyone, including their 'besties' Australia were like "yo bro the French just did a terrorism on New Zealand...that's like not cool right?" America refused to acknowledge it. Only in September, after France admitted guilt did America go "we hate terrorism grr" I don't know what my warning here is I kinda just remembered and went "huh." Don't do terrorism, but if you do it's okay because America will be chill with it?

While the two older halves of the ANZUS polycule were sending military forces into the Vietnam war, New Zealand just sent economic aid and medical aid. We're lovers, not fighters (#FreePalestine). We did, uhm... supply Agent Orange... but that was after America was like, "We'll kick you out of the polycule again," and that's just so much work. Peer pressure works on us. We're people pleasers.

There you go! Those are all my tips for relocating to the Better DownUnder! I could go on, but my therapist said I should avoid thinking about Bill Clinton and the Big Bad War on Terror if I want to make it to 30 ^_^ I hope this was helpful!!

[mhgrf]

Our country's regional visa-free policy for foreigners mainly includes:

Hong Kong and Macao foreign tour groups to enter Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy. Citizens of countries with diplomatic ties with China holding ordinary passports may visit the nine cities in the Greater Bay area and the Shantou Bay Area without the need for a visa after entering the region through a group of Hong Kong and macao-registered travel agents, activities will be held in the cities of Guangzhou, Foshan, Zhaoqing, Shenzhen, Dongguan, Huizhou, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Jiangmen and Shantou, group in and out, stay less than 144 hours.

Visa-free entry policy for tour groups from ASEAN countries to Guilin, Guangxi. Group tours (2 or more) from ASEAN countries (Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia) , with an ordinary passport, you can enter or leave the country visa-free through the Guilin Airport and travel agencies in Guilin, stay no longer than 144 hours.

Visa-free entry policy for foreign tour groups by cruise. Foreign tour groups (2 or more persons) on cruises and received by travel agencies in China, visa-free group visits are available from 13 cruise ports in Tianjin, Dalian, Shanghai, Lianyungang, Wenzhou and Zhoushan, Xiamen, Qingdao, Beihai, Haikou and Sanya, the tour group shall travel with the same cruise to the next port until the departure of this cruise, activities for Tianjin, Hebei, Liaoning, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, Shandong, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and other 11 coastal provinces (autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the central government) and Beijing, stay no longer than 15 days.

4th, 59 countries personnel entry Hainan 30 days visa-free policy. Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Monaco, Belarus and 59 other countries hold ordinary passports, for short-term reasons such as tourism, business, visit, family visit, medical treatment, convention and exhibition, sports competition, etc. (except for work and study reasons) , visa-free entry to Hainan may be granted, the scope of activities shall be within the administrative area of Hainan province, and the entry and exit ports shall be all open ports of Hainan province, and the stay time shall not exceed 30 days.

Visa-free 144-hour entry policy for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao. Citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with China who hold ordinary passports and visit Hong Kong and Macao may visit Hainan visa-free if they are in a group of two or more members of a travel agency legally registered in Hong Kong and Macao, activities for the administrative area of Hainan province, the entry and exit ports for all open ports in Hainan province, the use of group entry and exit mode, stay less than 144 hours.

[beardedmrbean]

Canada has long been a draw for people from India's Punjab province seeking new opportunities elsewhere. But has the Canadian dream soured?

It's hard to miss the ardour of Punjab's migrant ambitions when driving through its fertile rural plains.

Billboards promising easy immigration to Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK jut out through ample mustard fields.

Off the highways, consultancies offer English language coaching to eager youth.

Single-storey brick homes double up as canvasses for hand-painted mural advertisements promising quick visas. And in the town of Bathinda, hundreds of agents jostle for space on a single narrow street, pledging to speed up the youth's runaway dreams.

For over a century, this province in India's northwest has seen waves of overseas migration; from the Sikh soldiers inducted into the British Indian Army travelling to Canada, through to rural Punjabis settling in England post-independence.

But some, especially from Canada, are now choosing to come back home.

One of those is 28-year-old Balkar, who returned in early 2023 after just one year in Toronto. Citizenship was his ultimate goal when he left his little hamlet of Pitho in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. His family mortgaged their land to fund his education.

But his Canadian dream quickly lost its allure a few months into his life there.

"Everything was so expensive. I had to work 50 hours every week after college, just to survive," he told the BBC. "High inflation is making many students leave their studies."

Balkar now runs an embroidery business from a small room on one side of the expansive central courtyard in his typical Punjabi home. He also helps on his family's farm to supplement his income.

Opportunities for employment are few and far between in these rural areas, but technology has allowed entrepreneurs like him to conquer the tyranny of distance. Balkar gets the bulk of his business through Instagram.

"I have a good life here. Why should I face hardships there when I can live at home and make good money?" he asks.

The BBC spoke to at least half a dozen reverse migrants in Punjab who shared similar sentiments.

It was also a common refrain in the scores of videos on YouTube shared by Indians who had chosen to abandon their life in Canada and return home. There was a stark difference one young returnee told the BBC between the "rosy picture" immigration agents painted and the rough reality of immigrant life in Toronto and Vancouver.

The "Canada craze" has let up a bit - and especially so among well-off migrants who have a fallback option at home, says Raj Karan Brar, an immigration agent in Bathinda who helps hundreds of Punjabis get permanent residencies and student visas every year.

The desire for a Canadian citizenship remains as strong as ever though among middle- and lower middle-class clients in rural communities.

But viral YouTube videos of students talking about the difficulty in finding jobs and protests over a lack of housing and work opportunities has created an air of nervousness among these students, say immigration agents.

There was a 40% decline in applications from India for Canadian study permits in the second half of 2023, according to one estimate. This was, in part, also due to the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada over allegations Indian agents were involved in the murder of Canadian Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

There are also hints of deeper cultural factors at play, for a waning Canadian dream among an older generation of Indian migrants.

Karan Aulakh, who spent nearly 15 years in Edmonton and achieved career and financial success, left his managerial job for a comfortable rural life in Khane ki Daab, the village where he was born in 1985. He told the BBC he was upset by LGBT-inclusive education policies in Canada and its 2018 decision to legalise recreational cannabis. Incompatibility with the Western way of life, a struggling healthcare system, and better economic prospects in India were, he said, key reasons why many older Canadian Indians are preparing to leave the country.

"I started an online consultancy - Back to the Motherland - a month and a half ago, to help those who want to reverse migrate. I get at least two to three calls every day, mostly from people in Canada who want to know what job opportunities there are in Punjab and how they can come back," said Mr Aulakh.

For a country that places such a high value on immigration, these trends are "concerning" and are "being received with a bit of a sting politically", says Daniel Bernhard of the Institute of Canadian Citizenship, an immigration advocacy group.

A liberalised immigration regime has been Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's signature policy to counter slowing economic growth and a rapidly aging population.

According to Canada's statistics agency, immigration accounted for 90% of Canada's labour force growth and 75% of population growth in 2021.

International students contribute to over C$20bn ($14.7bn; £11.7bn) to Canada's economy each year, a bulk of them Indians who now make up one in five recent immigrants to the country.

India was also Canada's leading source for immigration in 2022.

The numbers of those leaving are still small in absolute terms with immigration levels at all-time highs in Canada - the country welcomed nearly half a million new migrants each year over the past few years.

But the rate of reverse migration hit a two decade high in 2019, signalling that migrants were "losing confidence" in the country said Mr Bernhard.

Country specific statistics for such emigrants, or reverse migrants, are not available.

But official data obtained by Reuters shows between 80,000 and 90,000 immigrants left Canada in 2021 and 2022 and either went back to their countries, or onward elsewhere.

Some 42,000 people departed in the first half of 2023.

Fewer permanent residents are also going on to become Canadian citizens, according to census data cited by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. In 2001, 75% of those eligible became citizens. Two decades later, it was 45%.

Canada needs to "restore the value of its citizenship," said Mr Bernhard.

It comes as Canada debates its aggressive immigration targets given country's struggle to absorb more people.

A recent report from National Bank of Canada economists cautioned that the population growth was putting pressure on its already tight housing supply and strained healthcare system.

Canada has seen a population surge - an increase of 1.2 million people in 2023 - driven mostly by newcomers.

The report argued that growth needed to be slowed to an annual increase of up to 500,000 people in order to preserve or increase the standard of living.

There appears to have been a tacit acceptance of this evaluation by policymakers.

Mr Trudeau's Liberal government recently introduced a cap on international student permits that would result in a temporary decrease of 35% in approved study visas.

It's a significant policy shift that some believe may end up further reducing Canada's appeal amid a wave of reverse migrations.

[lcblog121]

Media, politics, citizenship

Media, politics and citizenship.  

Counter Protesting: Julian Batchelor

This social media post created by Tamaki Anti-Fascist action shows a call for a counter-protest to Julian Batchelor’s ‘Anti co-governance' tour. I believe that the message in the social media post is the correct response to Batchelor’s actions and beliefs, here’s why.  

Anti – co-governance is a large issue in today's media and political sphere. Since the creation of the Three Waters Act, disinformation has led to a large and misinformed political movement. Historically anti-Māori and anti-treaty actors have reemerged as the leaders of this new movement with Julian Batchelor being at the forefront. Through uninformed rhetoric pushed by Aotearoa’s big right-wing parties (National, Act and New Zealand First) and the accompanying media outlets (Newstalk ZB and The Platform etc.) the public reaction has been skewed. Adding to the conspiratorial confusion in the wake of the COVID response, a movement of right-wing paranoia has emerged. Julian Batchelor organised a tour of the nation, travelling to all lengths of the country to spread his message. This message is calling for intervention in mild treaty support policies that he believes will turn New Zealand into an ‘apartheid, tribal rule state’.  

Julian Batchelor is a Kenyan born, New Zealand evangelist who has made a living from church donations and his large property portfolio amassed largely during his time as a real-estate agent. Batchelor, a born-again Christian, developed his theological model on the idea that humans either have a light or dark soul and are battling for power. His theological theories relate highly to his political platform based around anti co-governance. Batchelor has been campaigning on the idea that having Māori representation in the form of co-governance equates to apartheid that was seen in South Africa.  

Despite the tour's occasionally substantial support, the opposition to the tour has brought left-wing, anti-fascist and revolutionary socialist organisations together with the public masses to organise counter-protests. The social media post we are analysing comes from the recent counter-protest organised in coalition between ‘Tamaki Anti-Fascist Action (TAFA)’ and ‘Organise Aotearoa (OA)’. To round-up his tour, Batchelor decided to march up Queen St in Tamaki Makaurau where many organisations on the right joined up under his banner. Amongst these groups was NZ neo-Nazi's ‘Action Zealandia’ and Brian Tamaki’s ‘Freedoms coalition’.  

The social media post here was created by TAFA to organise and share the message that they were going to counter protest. This is an example of DIY citizenship as they are trying to create a grassroots event in reaction to an opposing political movement. On the day, counter-protesters from Auckland gathered in a noise protest designed to disrupt and drown out Batchelor’s speeches. At the front line of Batchelor’s protest were five Action Zealandia members shouting racial abuse at the more diverse group of counter-protesters including, “go home savages, go home”, as a part of their chant. After a couple of hours, they moved on and the counter-protesters were stopped by police from advancing further.  

This social media post aligns with my beliefs as I was there as a member of one of the organisations. I believe that DIY citizenship is important to create an opposition to racist movements and disseminate the disinformation that they share. In this example, we managed to get a small interview with newshub in which it was pointed out that there were neo-Nazis amongst their protest which shows where they truly stand. It was important to get some kind of media to cover the issue as without it you are only left with a public reaction which may be interpreted any way without context. On the opposing side they had their own internal media in the form of mana news. I reviewed the footage taken by mana news during the protest and it was evident that they had no idea what we represented or that they had Nazi’s on their front line. 

As an extension of grassroots movements, media is an important addition to DIY citizenship. The form of media taken to provide information about a movement against Batchelor’s anti co-governance tour is social media. Accessible to most people, grassroots movements have begun to rely on social media’s reach and accessibility to create effective movements. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook (events), Telegram and Discord are now key platforms for organising DIY citizenship events and movements. Although traditional media often takes interest at the peak of conflict through DIY movements, they often come in late, use little context and provide a bad take on what is happening and has been happening on the ground. Despite the positivity of getting to talk to mainstream media which sometimes does not happen, Newshub reduced the event to a ‘major shouting match’ without giving much time to explain the conflict or write a meaningful analysis. Without these more diverse forms of media, DIY citizenship would be far more challenging to practice. 

In conclusion, I believe that the social media post and action taken were a correct response to the issue we were facing. Anti co-governance is fundamentally a continuation of settler colonialism and racist policy that will only benefit wealthy settlers under the current capitalist system (like Julian Batchelor). In times where DIY citizenship is needed and required to hit the streets, social media can be very effective in assuring that people are informed and prepared to take part.  

Ariel Bogle. Far-right voice opponents Co-opt comments from controversial New Zealand speaker. (2023, August 22). the Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/23/who-is-julian-batchellor-stop-co-governance-new-zealand-far-right-speaker-indigenous-voice-to-parliament-referendum-no-campaign 

Julian Batchelor. (2023, October 25). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved October 27, 2023, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julian_Batchelor  

Jessica (no last name given). Where the parties stand on Co-governance. (9/9/2023). Democracy Action. https://www.democracyaction.org.nz/where_the_parties_stand_on_co_governance  

Perry Wilton. (23/9/2023). Newshub, https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2023/09/major-shouting-match-in-auckland-as-stop-co-governance-movement-clashes-with-counter-protesters.html 

Blog 2

This article published by New Zealand doctor describes the sacrifices that the National party will make to public services, in particular healthcare, in order to fund their tax cut policy. I believe that the argument made in this article is correct and here’s why.

The article published September 13, 2023, describes the worries held by healthcare professionals after an interview Christopher Luxon did with the morning report. The article follows the response from the Public Service Association in reaction to Luxon’s comments. What they are saying is that National’s fiscal policy looks to defund or refuse to increase funding of backstaff healthcare work as they do not see it as being important in comparison to frontline health work. The PSA argues that without funding for all of the other parts of healthcare, frontline workers will not have the necessary funds to do their job correctly or efficiently. They continue to say, “Mr Luxon is either ignorant of how health services are delivered, or he is deliberately misleading New Zealanders”. Added on to this, National’s healthcare policy shows that they still want to increase vaccination rates which is contradictory to their policy of defunding the public sector. 

National’s tax cut policy, as with dozens they’ve had before this election, always looks good on the outside. In reality, the National party needs to find $8 billion in order to fund the policy. Until as recently as the opening of voting, Luxon refused to answer (among other things) where they would get the money from. After some time of deflecting the question they finally said what everyone had expected, that the money would come from defunding the public sector. As a right-wing party, it is always going to be in the corporate interest to privitise public services in favour of private corporations and contractors so that they can make essential industries profitable. The obvious downside to this is that the only people who ever benefit are the extremely wealthy business owning class. Luxon’s career as a CEO in major international corporations only shows his further commitment to helping exclusively his rich friends, donors and those of the same class. Healthcare workers for as long as neoliberalism has existed have been the first to bare the brunt of neoliberal privitisation and destruction of the public sector. With Labour, few to no concessions were made in regards to helping healthcare workers, however, National’s plan will explicitly hurt their funding more. 

The article does a good job of showing healthcare professionals reaction to the issue. Many other workers in public industry are currently feeling the same about the immenent drop in quality of their working conditions and pay. As well as healthcare, National plans to cut public transport (including the Auckland light rail project) in favour of building roads, bring back prescription fees, destroy Fair Pay Agreements, bring back no-cause evictions, get rid of the maori health authority, clean car discount, funding for education and welfare. In contradistinction to their claim that they are ‘working for all New Zealanders’, National’s tax cut plan is specifically designed to get rid of any union power, concessions to the working class and accessible public services. 

This article shows the importance of having forms of industry related media. NZ Doctor focuses on industry related stories and information, providing good journalism written by people in the industry or who have worked in the industry. Mainstream media generally fails to capture industry perspectives on issues until union struggle or public outcry becomes vocal on an industry problem. In this particular case, National party is breaking the healthcare workers political citizenship by banning free pay agreements which remain one of the only measures that healthcare workers have been able to use to gain industry concessions. Free pay agreements were one of the surviving union and industry tools since unions were stripped of their power through neoliberalism. Essentially what they allow is industry wide union strikes and industry wide policies rather than making a union struggle that only caters for a single business. With National party’s imminent FPA ban coming, the strikes by healthcare workers, teacher etc. will be forced to stop on a legal basis. This ban gives much more power to corporations who strive to make profit at all costs over the welfare of their workers. The less a corporation has to pay to it’s workers and facilities in order to run, the more profit they will make - and that is exactly what National party and their capitalist donors want. 

This article aligns with my beliefs as I stand by workers in all industries and believe that corporations and capitalist politicians should not be in power of a functioning democracy. The history of the destruction of Unions and public sector industries is a travesty for the working class in NZ and world-wide. I believe it is important for industries to not only have strong unions, but also have their own media like the healthcare industry does. Ultimately I, as do the Public Service Association, think that the cutting of public sector funding as well as their ability to fight for conditions works only in the interest of the ruling minority of our country and against the interest of the working majority.

In conclusion, I agree with the sentiment of this article. They have done a good job of portraying the injustices done upon their rights as an industry and as citizens by National Party policies. It is important to have media that is industry focused and believes in doing the right thing for the public and for their workers. 

Media Release from the Public Service Association. (2023, September 13). Watch out New Zealand, cuts to health spending coming under a national-led government. New Zealand Doctor. https://www.nzdoctor.co.nz/article/undoctored/watch-out-new-zealand-cuts-health-spending-coming-under-national-led-government 

Michael Neilson. National's focus on benefit sanctions goes against evidence - expert. (2023, September 26). NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/election-2023-national-party-sanctions-benefit-policy-goes-against-evidence-expert-weag-says/DS552SZZURFCZK3IXKWK4MYZLY/

[migrationagentwa]

Bring Your Fiancé to Australia with Visa Subclass 300

Are you planning to marry your partner in Australia and start a life together? The Prospective Marriage Visa Subclass 300 is designed for individuals engaged to Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens. This temporary visa allows you to enter Australia, get married within 9 months, and apply for a partner visa afterward. With this visa, you can work, study, and travel in Australia while preparing for your wedding. Navigating the application process can be complex, but a professional migration agent in Perth can guide you through every step, ensuring your journey is smooth and stress-free.

[patrickpatrovichluxury]

POOL,BEER & FRIENDS.

My first overseas experience has been traveling New Zealand for 6 months finding rafting guides,my collegues in Italy 25 years before.I slept in hotels,local houses,by tent in the forest,in B&B and in backpackers hostels.

In New Zealand,living for six months as a native or with indigenous people,I have improved my skills as a rafting guide and as a rafting company owner driving dozens of new rivers at first sight and making thousands of images for my personal stock and that of my photographic agency.Currently New Zealand are one of the destinations of my adventure trips that I organize on 4 continents with about 90 destinations.I lived with the Kiwis,a common self-reference used by New Zealanders,though it is also used internationally.Its usage is not considered offensive.Traveling the country,I also slept in the hotels,by tent in the forest,in B&B and in backpackers hostels;this last one is one of the worst solution never tried where young guys from all over the world have nothing to do and wander around the countries without goals.

I started mine rafting career on one of the world's top 10 rivers for water activities,ranked CLASS V,the highest.

Big water,big experiences,big waves,high flow,great current,big rapids,a lot of trips.

More than 25 years into white water,into outdoors,into extreme,into tourism,into sports,into adventure,into nature,into adrenaline.

I covered most of the roles and today,my Rafting Company run:

Italian rafting season,gym for our journeys in 5 continents;

9 rafting destinations in the world for 21 days each;

9 rafting destinations in Europe for 3 days each,during all summer,combining simulated parachuting;

NEW - Patrick Rafting FRANCHISE;be your own BOSS;

Patrick Rafting 76 W I L D  C A R D S - 76 special destinations around the World,by rafting;

Patrick Rafting K A Y A K E R S - Safety,Photography,Videography.

Bookings,reservations,orders and quotations at: patrickcarafagroup@gmail.com www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

We are looking for rafting guides,junior and senior,tripleaders,hydrospeed guides,safety kayakers,safety managers,mountain guides,outdoor instructors,technicians,dealers/sellers,suppliers,travel agents/agencies available/interested for the sale of our tours,journeys,services and activities and any one expert in outdoor events,sports,nature,adventures;moreover,influencers and content creators with experience in rafting and outdoors,available as a freelance or other.

My rafting company run summer season,9 weekend destinations in Europe,9 montly journeys in the world and 76 countries/wild cards around 5 continents.If interested,send copy front/rear of two identification documents,the river/sport resume with life history without photo,where you explain also how many languages you speak,copies of the certifications,company profile if exist,the logbook,if used,and your photos in action.Will be requested,later,if in case,sporadic availability or long term collaboration,on weekends,seasonal basis or travels and journeys,to be determined by agreement between the parties.We are looking also for those interested in our rafting franchising

All about the CEO,here: www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

My AUTOBIODATAPHY,here: www.flickr.com/people/communitycation

ALL my Social channels,here: www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

That's why,I inspire,I'm copied,I'm imited,I'm envied,like here: www.pinterest.it/patrickrafting/we-inspire

EXCLUSIVE CONTENTS,OFFERS,DEALS AND EPICS,NEWS,CURRENT PHOTOS and VIDEOS,UNSEEN,UNHEARD,UNLOCKED,ULTIMATE AFFAIRS,BOOKINGS,RESERVATIONS,ORDERS and QUOTATIONS ONLY ON OUR PRIVATE CLOUD by the CARD,here:

patrickcarafagroup@gmail.com www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

Everything else I do: www.pinterest.it/patrickrafting/just-patrick

Thousands of real projects,in the most varied sectors,created so far,here: www.pinterest.it/patrickrafting/advs-story-of-patrick

For our FRANCHISING,contact us at: patrickcarafagroup@gmail.com www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

Become a rafting guide,contact us at: patrickcarafagroup@gmail.com www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

If you are already a guide,become one of us in the world,contact us at: patrickcarafagroup@gmail.com www.linktr.ee/patrick.carafa

[ghumindiaghum]

New Zealand Known for being the cleanest and greenest country in the world and it attract millions of tourist all around the World every year, It is blessed by natural beauty that is defined by its share of snow covered mountain ranges, beautiful lakes, landscapes and fertile plains. Besides, its cities are so diverse and unique see more at: https://bit.ly/3zkCEfI

[lorien1208]

Study in New Zealand

New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities, is also a rising star in the world of international education. With globally recognized universities, an emphasis on research and innovation, and a safe, inclusive environment, study in New Zealand offers a transformative experience for students from around the globe.

Why Choose New Zealand for Your Studies?

High-Quality EducationNew Zealand’s education system is among the best in the world, with all eight universities consistently ranked in international rankings like the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education. The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) ensures that institutions meet high standards, giving students confidence in the quality of their education.

Globally Recognized DegreesDegrees from New Zealand are recognized internationally, enabling graduates to pursue careers or further studies worldwide. The country’s focus on practical, hands-on learning prepares students for real-world challenges.

Innovative and Research-Oriented ProgramsNew Zealand is a hub for cutting-edge research in fields like environmental science, engineering, and digital technology. Students benefit from access to world-class facilities and opportunities to work on innovative projects.

Safe and Welcoming EnvironmentRanked as one of the safest countries in the world, New Zealand is an ideal destination for international students. The country’s friendly, multicultural communities ensure that students feel at home.

Work OpportunitiesInternational students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during holidays, offering financial support and valuable work experience. Post-study work visas allow graduates to gain experience in New Zealand after completing their education.

Top Universities in New Zealand

University of Auckland: Renowned for its diverse programs and research opportunities.

University of Otago: Known for its medical and health sciences.

Victoria University of Wellington: A leader in humanities, arts, and law.

University of Canterbury: Famous for engineering and natural sciences.

Massey University: Offers unique programs in aviation, veterinary science, and agriculture.

University of Waikato: Known for business and management studies.

Lincoln University: Specializes in agriculture and environmental studies.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT): Focused on innovation and practical learning.

Affordable Education and Scholarships

Studying in New Zealand is more affordable compared to other popular destinations like the USA, UK, or Australia. Tuition fees vary by program but are generally reasonable. Numerous scholarships are available for international students, including the New Zealand Scholarships, which cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

Life Beyond the Classroom

New Zealand offers a vibrant student life, with a range of extracurricular activities to enjoy. From hiking in the Southern Alps to surfing on pristine beaches, students can explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes. The thriving arts and cultural scene, combined with a love for sports, ensures there’s something for everyone.

How to Apply

Choose a Program: Research universities and courses that align with your career goals.

Check Entry Requirements: Ensure you meet academic and English language proficiency requirements.

Apply to Institutions: Submit applications directly or through authorized agents.

Apply for a Visa: Once accepted, apply for a student visa via Immigration New Zealand.

Prepare for Arrival: Arrange accommodation, insurance, and travel plans.

Conclusion

Studying in New Zealand is more than just earning a degree—it’s a journey of personal and professional growth. With its exceptional education system, diverse culture, and unparalleled natural beauty, New Zealand is a dream destination for students aiming to broaden their horizons and shape a successful future.

Whether you're pursuing undergraduate studies, a master's degree, or a Ph.D., New Zealand has the resources and opportunities to help you succeed. Begin your journey to this extraordinary land and experience an education that truly prepares you for the global stage.

[passportrenewal]

World’s Most and Least Expensive Passports in 2024: Where Does India Stand?

A passport is more than just a travel document — it symbolizes identity, nationality, and freedom to explore the world. However, the cost of obtaining a passport varies significantly across countries. Recent data from Compare The Market highlights the world’s most and least expensive passports in 2024, revealing some fascinating insights about affordability.

The World’s Most Expensive Passports

At the top of the list is Mexico, where a 10-year passport costs a staggering Rs 19,481.75. Mexico also features prominently with its 6-year and 3-year passports, which are among the top 10 most expensive globally.

Here are the top five most expensive passports:

Mexico (10-year validity): Rs 19,481.75

Australia (10-year validity): Rs 19,023

United States (10-year validity): Rs 13,899

Mexico (6-year validity): Rs 11,115

New Zealand (10-year validity): Rs 10,654

The Least Expensive Passports

In contrast, the United Arab Emirates offers the most affordable passport, costing only Rs 1,492 for a 5-year validity. Surprisingly, India is right behind, ranking as the second cheapest passport worldwide, with a 10-year passport costing Rs 1,523.

Here are the top five cheapest passports:

United Arab Emirates (5-year validity): Rs 1,492

India (10-year validity): Rs 1,523

Hungary (5-year validity): Rs 1,747

South Africa (10-year validity): Rs 2,664

Kenya (10-year validity): Rs 2,710

Why the Indian Passport is a Great Value

The Indian passport not only stands out for its affordability but also for its value in terms of ‘cost per year’. With a 10-year validity period and visa-free access to 58 countries, the Indian passport is a practical and economical option for its citizens.

Additionally, India ranks 82nd on the Henley Powerful Passport Index 2024, reflecting its growing global relevance.

Conclusion

While passport costs can differ significantly based on a country’s policies and services, it’s reassuring to see that the Indian passport offers exceptional value. For Indian citizens, this affordability is an added advantage to exploring the world without breaking the bank.

Ready to apply for your Indian passport? Let SmotPro Passport Agent assist you in navigating the process with ease!

Source: https://passportagentinbangalore.com/passports/worlds-most-and-least-expensive-passports-in-2024-where-does-india-stand/

[govindhtech]

Share Item Location AirTag & Find My Network in iOS 18.2

Share Item Location AirTag

In beta with iOS 18.2, users can share a secure link to an AirTag or Find My network accessory’s location with others and airlines.

A new iOS feature called Share Item Location was unveiled by Apple. It allows customers to simply and securely share the location of an AirTag or Find My network accessory with third parties, including airlines, to help them find and retrieve missing items.

In most parts of the world, Share Item Location is currently accessible as part of the public beta of iOS 18.2, which will soon be made available to all users as a free software upgrade for iPhone Xs and later. Safety and privacy are at the heart of Find My. Once a user is reunited with their item, the shared location will be disabled. The owner can stop it at any time, and it will automatically expire after seven days.

According to Eddy Cue, senior vice president of services at Apple, “Find My is a crucial tool for users worldwide to track and find their belongings.” Users have found that the Find My network and AirTag work well together when traveling, giving them crucial location data in the event that their luggage are misplaced or handled improperly. We’re thrilled to offer consumers a new, private method of freely sharing this data with outside parties, such as airlines, using Share Item Location Find My.

Using the Find My app on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, users can create a Share Item Location. When a link is sent, the recipient can access a website that displays the item’s position on an interactive map. The website will display the timestamp of the most recent update and automatically update whenever a new location becomes available.

Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Austrian, British, Brussels, Delta, Eurowings, Iberia, KLM Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Singapore, Swiss,, Turkish Airlines, United, Virgin Atlantic, and Vueling are among the more than 15 airlines that will make Find My item locations a part of their customer service procedure in the upcoming months. These airlines serve millions of passengers worldwide. With time, more airlines will be included.

Taking use of the hundreds of millions of Apple devices that many airlines currently use, Apple has worked closely with partner airlines to set up systems to covertly and securely accept Share Item Location. Each link will only be accessible to a select few, and recipients will need to verify using their partner email address or Apple Account to view the link.

“To integrate Share Item Location into its baggage recovery process, they have collaborated closely with Apple and are eager to make this feature accessible to customers shortly, “United CCO David Kinzelman said.

Since many customers already have AirTag in their checked bags, Apple is aware that this feature will soon make it simpler for them to securely and safely share location data with us, which will improve customer service agent productivity and provide its customers with additional peace of mind. Apple wants to launch the service systemwide in early 2025 after first accepting Find My Item locations in a few airports.

Share Item Location will also be integrated into WorldTracer, the baggage-tracing system utilized by more than 500 airlines and ground handlers at more than 2,800 airports worldwide, by SITA, a pioneer in air transport technology.

“As the top supplier of end-to-end baggage management solutions, apple confront significant difficulties as airports and airlines throughout the world prepare to double their passenger volume by 2040.

The Find My network a crowdsourced network of more than one billion Apple devices is the foundation of Share Item Location. It uses Bluetooth wireless technology to identify nearby missing gadgets or things and let the owner know where they are roughly located. No one else can see a device’s location or data because the entire process is anonymous and end-to-end encrypted, including Apple and Find My Network accessory manufacturers.

AirTags Price

When bought straight from Apple, AirTags cost $29 each unit or $99 per four-pack. Prices are often discounted, especially during sales. Amazon recently sold a four-pack of AirTags for $70, a $30 discount. Walmart and other retailers often offer AirTags in seasonal specials, lowering the price of a four-pack to $70 during sales.

Read more on Govindhtech.com