#Private Tour Auckland

[asp1990]

Day 13: Wednesday 2nd October, 2024 [Wellington]

Breakfast: A buffet breakfast! Poached eggs, bacon, hash brown, coffee, juice, muesli, pastries! Lunch: NA Dinner: Asian Street Food from Master Kong

Today was our last full day in Aotearoa NZ and we had a half day tour booked. We went down to breakfast at 8.30am in the hotel restaurant and enjoyed the buffet. Our guide, Brian, picked us up at 9.20am and our fellow passengers Tony & Tina, from Adelaide, were already in the van. We stopped one more time to pick up Joy and Dawn, from Christchurch, in the city but Brian side-swiped a taxi as he was parking, so it was a frazzled start to the day. 

Our first stop was the top of Mt Victoria, which was incredibly windy but very beautiful. Brian told us on the drive up that the cable car industry was actually quite lucrative in Wellington as lots of the properties on Mt Victoria had their own private cable cars from the road to their property. Wild! We could see Wellington airport from the peak and found out that pilots had to be specially trained to land into Wellington due to the extreme winds and shortened landing strip. This means that only domestic and Australian flights land in Wellington and all other flights land in Auckland. 

Next we wound our way back down the mountain to the other side of the city that we hadn’t visited yet. We drove past Lyall Bay surf beach and the back end of the airport before stopping briefly to see Breaker Bay where NZ’s biggest maritime disaster occurred in 1968 when a ferry hit the rocks and 52 people died. Brian told us about the tsunami ‘higher ground’ signs and that when earthquakes and flooding happen that all the beachfront properties get damaged and are no longer eligible for home insurance due to their location. Beautiful but risky properties. 

We made our way back inland to Miramar where NZ’s movie district and all the production companies are. We stopped briefly at the Weta workshop but could only visit the gift shop and bathrooms, which was a shame. Brian was a great guide, but everything felt a wee bit rushed. Despite this, I bought some more LOTR souvenirs that I’d passed up in Hobbiton but had been regretting not purchasing. We then visited the Wellington Cable Car (which Amara and I had been to a few days before) where Brian dropped us off at the base and drove to meet us at the top. We all stopped to get a coffee at the cafe before getting back in the van. Again, we were a bit rushed. Each drive to a new location was a great excuse to chat to our tour buddies who were really lovely. Tony was a school principal in Adelaide, Tina was a retired aged care nurse and Joy & Dawn were in their 70’s and were friends because their daughters made friends in dance school when they were five. 

Back in the city we visited the National War Memorial where the tomb of the unknown soldier was kept. We didn’t get out of the car, but it was also very windy and cold, so we just observed through the window. We then visited Parliament House, coloquially known as ‘The Beehive’ and the archive library. Brian told us that Parliament House was originally a wooden building and the library was stone so the documents didn’t burn down but then Parliament House burnt down so they rebuilt in stone and this was some kind of architectural breakthrough. Sounds like something that 3 Little Pigs had figured out though..

Our final stop was Old St Paul’s Church: a non-denominational church built in 1866. It was decommissioned when the new church was built, but it’s now owned by the government so anyone can marry there. Queer, any faith etc. The American Navy have a connection with this church as they used it during the war. They have their flags hanging inside and the American embassy hold their Memorial Day service there each year, which a lot of American tourists love to hear.  

After we left the church, Brian dropped us all back at our respective hotels and Amara and I spent the afternoon in our room: her napping, me reading. We went down to Chocolate Hour at 4pm then came back up to our room to get ready for our last outing in the city.

At 5.30pm, in our nice dresses and heels that we’d packed and not yet had a reason to wear, we got an Uber into town to have dinner at Master Kong with Jo, who was also attending the World of Wearable Art (WOW) performance. We enjoyed a delicious feast of edamame, king pao chicken, green salad, corn ribs & popcorn prawns. Everything was cooked and seasoned perfectly. At 6.45pm we walked over to the TSB Arena for the show. 

The World of Wearable Art was absolutely iconic. Our friend had described it as “a fashion show mixed with Cirque Du Soleil” and she couldn’t have been more accurate. The performance showcased extravagant fashion outfits made out of any material that were submitted by a range of fashion designers from around the world. The costumes, lighting, soundtrack, staging and production value were breathtaking. I am so glad that Amara booked us tickets at the last minute as it was the perfect way to end our trip. The overall winner was an American artist who had made everything out of roadwork materials - orange honeycomb fencing, traffic cones and hi-vis. It was gorgeous! My favourite piece though was what I named ‘the sexy prawn’. 

After the show we walked up the street, away from the crowds, and a group of older women started talking to us about the show and gave us there programme when they found out it was our first time seeing WoW, which was lovely. We then booked an Uber as we couldn’t face walking up the steep hill in heels and our Uber driver laughed at us when we said this. 

Back in the hotel Amara showered, I wrote my diary and then we packed a wee bit before hitting the hay. One more sleep until I get to see Morgan and MJ!

[expressshuttle]

Auckland Airport Private Transfers: Exclusive, Comfortable & Stress-Free Travel

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[shuttle2home]

The Ultimate Guide to Airport Shuttle Services in Auckland

Whether you're a frequent flyer or planning a special trip, getting to and from the airport smoothly is crucial. For many travelers, the hustle and bustle of arranging transport can be a stressful start or end to their journey. Fortunately, Shuttle2Home offers a reliable and comfortable solution with its airport shuttle services in Auckland. Let's explore how this service can enhance your travel experience, whether you're headed to Auckland or traveling from Auckland to Hamilton.

Why Choose an Airport Shuttle Service in Auckland?

When it comes to traveling, convenience and reliability are key. Shuttle2Home's airport shuttle service in Auckland ensures you get to your destination without the hassle of public transport or the expense of a taxi. Here are some compelling reasons to choose an airport shuttle:

Punctuality and Reliability: Shuttle2Home guarantees timely pickups and drop-offs, ensuring you never miss a flight or arrive late to your destination.

Comfort and Convenience: Enjoy a stress-free ride in comfortable vehicles equipped with modern amenities.

Cost-Effective: Shared shuttle services offer a budget-friendly alternative to taxis or private cars, without compromising on comfort.

Professional Drivers: Trained and courteous drivers ensure a safe and pleasant journey.

Services Offered by Shuttle2Home

Shuttle2Home provides a range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers:

Airport Shuttle Auckland: Whether you're arriving in Auckland or heading out, Shuttle2Home offers reliable airport transfers. This service is ideal for both individuals and groups, ensuring everyone gets to their destination on time.

Shuttle Service Auckland to Hamilton: Traveling to Hamilton? Shuttle2Home provides a convenient shuttle service from Auckland to Hamilton, perfect for business travelers, tourists, or anyone needing a comfortable ride between these cities.

Airport Shuttle Auckland: A Detailed Look

When you choose Shuttle2Home's airport shuttle service in Auckland, you can expect:

Easy Booking Process: Booking your shuttle is straightforward. You can make a reservation online through the Shuttle2Home website, ensuring your travel plans are set well in advance.

Meet and Greet Service: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a friendly Shuttle2Home representative will meet you, assist with your luggage, and guide you to your shuttle.

Flexible Schedules: Whether your flight is early in the morning or late at night, Shuttle2Home operates around the clock to accommodate your schedule.

Shuttle Service Auckland to Hamilton

The shuttle service from Auckland to Hamilton is a standout offering from Shuttle2Home, providing a seamless travel experience between these two key locations. Here’s why this service is highly recommended:

Regular Departures: Frequent shuttle departures ensure you can find a time that fits your itinerary.

Scenic Route: Enjoy the beautiful New Zealand landscape as you travel comfortably from Auckland to Hamilton.

Group Travel: Ideal for group bookings, the shuttle can accommodate larger parties, making it perfect for corporate events, family trips, or group tours.

Booking Your Shuttle with Shuttle2Home

Booking your shuttle with Shuttle2Home is simple and efficient. Here’s how to do it:

Visit the Website: Go to shuttle2home.co.nz to access the booking platform.

Choose Your Service: Select either the airport shuttle service in Auckland or the shuttle service from Auckland to Hamilton.

Enter Your Details: Provide the necessary information, including your pickup and drop-off locations, travel dates, and the number of passengers.

Confirm Your Booking: Review your details and confirm your booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary information.

Why Shuttle2Home Stands Out

Several features make Shuttle2Home the preferred choice for many travelers:

Customer Satisfaction: With a strong focus on customer service, Shuttle2Home has earned a reputation for reliability and professionalism.

Safety First: Safety is a top priority, with regular vehicle maintenance and experienced drivers.

Affordable Rates: Competitive pricing ensures you get great value for your money without compromising on quality.

Testimonials

Many satisfied customers have shared their positive experiences with Shuttle2Home:

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Conclusion

Traveling to and from the airport doesn’t have to be a hassle. With Shuttle2Home, you can enjoy a reliable, comfortable, and cost-effective airport shuttle service in Auckland. Whether you're heading to the airport or traveling from Auckland to Hamilton, Shuttle2Home ensures a smooth journey. Visit shuttle2home to book your shuttle today and experience the difference for yourself.

Shuttle2Home is dedicated to making your travel experience as seamless as possible, so next time you’re planning a trip, remember to book your shuttle with Shuttle2Home – your trusted partner in airport transfers and shuttle services.

[classicbuildernz]

The Art of Presentation: Show Homes and Their Impact on Real Estate

Show homes, also known as model homes or display homes, are meticulously designed and decorated properties that serve as a showcase for potential buyers. These homes are strategically staged to highlight a property's best features and create an emotional connection with prospective buyers.

In this blog, we will explore the definition and purpose of display homes auckland, their importance in the real estate industry, and delve into various aspects of their design, marketing, and future trends.

The Power of Presentation

A. Visual Appeal and First Impressions

The saying "first impressions matter" holds particularly true in the real estate industry. Show homes play a crucial role in creating a visually appealing environment that captivates potential buyers from the moment they step through the door. The layout, decor, and overall ambiance of a show home contribute to its initial impact on visitors.

B. Creating an Emotional Connection with Potential Buyers

Beyond aesthetics, show homes Auckland are designed to evoke emotions and aspirations in potential buyers. These properties aim to make visitors envision themselves living in the space through carefully curated design elements and thoughtful touches. This emotional connection often proves to be a decisive factor in the purchasing decision.

C. Utilising Show Homes to Maximise Property Value

Show homes not only enhance the desirability of a property but also have the potential to increase its market value. When presented effectively, these properties can command higher prices and attract a broader range of interested buyers, ultimately benefiting the sellers and real estate developers.

Design and Décor Techniques for Show Homes

A. Furniture Arrangement and Space Optimisation

Show homes are expertly staged to showcase the functionality and versatility of the living spaces. Furniture arrangement is carefully considered to maximise the perceived space and flow of the home. By optimising the layout, potential buyers can envision the potential uses of each room.

B. Colour Schemes and Lighting Considerations

The choice of color schemes and lighting can significantly impact the ambiance and mood of a show home. Neutral tones are often favoured for their versatility and ability to appeal to a wide range of tastes. At the same time, strategic lighting arrangements accentuate the architectural features and create an inviting atmosphere.

C. Incorporating Trendy Yet Timeless Elements

Show homes strike a balance between incorporating current design trends and timeless elements that ensure longevity. This fusion allows the property to appeal to contemporary tastes while retaining a sense of enduring sophistication, appealing to a broad spectrum of potential buyers.

Marketing Strategies for Show Homes

A. Leveraging Digital Platforms for Showcasing Properties

In the digital age, showcasing show homes extends beyond physical visits. Real estate professionals can use professional photography, virtual tours, and social media platforms to reach a wider audience and generate interest in the properties they represent.

B. Hosting Open Houses and Private Viewing

Open houses and private viewings provide an opportunity for potential buyers to experience the show home firsthand. These events allow for personal interactions and provide a platform for real estate agents to highlight the unique selling points of the property.

C. Collaborating with Real Estate Agents for Maximum Exposure

Collaborating with experienced real estate agents who understand the nuances of show home marketing can significantly impact the visibility and success of a property. Their expertise in targeted marketing and client engagement can amplify the reach of show homes in the competitive real estate market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the art of presentation through show homes profoundly impacts the real estate industry. From creating captivating visual experiences to leveraging effective marketing strategies, show homes play a pivotal role in influencing purchasing decisions and maximiing the value of properties. As the real estate landscape evolves, embracing the art of presentation will remain an integral aspect of successful real estate endeavours.

In conclusion, the art of presentation through show homes profoundly impacts the real estate industry. From creating captivating visual experiences to leveraging effective marketing strategies, show homes play a pivotal role in influencing purchasing decisions and maximising the value of properties. As the real estate landscape evolves, embracing the art of presentation will remain integral to successful real estate endeavours.

Whether you are a homebuyer, real estate developer, or industry professional, understanding the significance of show homes Auckland and their influence on the market can provide valuable insights and opportunities for success in the dynamic world of real estate. Embracing the art of presentation and staying attuned to future trends will undoubtedly position individuals and businesses for continued growth and achievement in the real estate arena.

[theyourstruly]

Prince Alexander George Philip of Wales. Born in 1984 (Diana and Charles Married in 1983 instead of 1981) 2nd in line to the british throne. After his father HRH The Prince of Wales b. 1948 and grandmother Her Majesty The Queen b. 1926.

He is the eldest son of Prince Charles and Diana, Princess Of Wales (Passed away in 2000)

He has two siblings Prince William b. 1985 and Prince Henry b. 1987. (Harry)

Alexander was born during the reign of his paternal grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. He was educated at Wetherby School, Ludgrove School and Eton College. He earned a Master of Science degree in Engineering at the University of Cambridge in 2007.

After university, Alexander trained at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst prior to serving with the Blues and Royals. In 2009 Alexander graduated from the Royal Air Force College Cranwell, joining the RAF Search and Rescue Force in early 2010.

Alexander performs official duties and engagements on behalf of the monarch since 2007 even though he’s not a full-time working royal yet.

He holds patronage with over 10 charitable and military organisations, including

- Tusk Trust: An African conservation charity, based in UK.

- NHS Charities Together: NHS Charities Together is the membership organisation for more than 240 of the NHS charities across the U.K. It provides a forum for nationwide campaigns; specialist advice and guidance; bespoke events and training opportunities.

- London International Youth Science Forum: To empower young people from all backgrounds to pursue their potential in science and engineering.

- Practical Action: Helps rural people in developing countries to help themselves through skills and technology.

- RedR UK: Charity providing trained engineers to relief agencies after humanitarian disasters.

- Institute of Advanced Motorists: An independent organisation working for responsible motoring and road safety research.

- Aerospace Bristol: Aerospace Bristol will be a new, £18.6m, nine-acre museum at Bristol Filton Airfield which will trace the pioneering stories of innovation over the last century to include the future of air and space travel.

- Ambition: Voluntary organistaion providing sporting, creative and training opportunities for young people.

- Care for Veterans: Provides residential nursing care, rehabilitation, respite and end of life care to physically disabled ex-Service personnel and their families.

- Welsh Rugby Union: Sporting association for rugby in Wales.

At the age of 21, Alexander was appointed a Counsellor of State; he first served in that capacity when the Queen attended the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the same year. In July 2007, he embarked on his first solo public engagements on an overseas tour of New Zealand, travelling to participate in World War II commemorations. According to author Tina Brown, he had, like his father, expressed a desire to become Governor-General of Australia. In 2011, the Queen set up a private office for Alexander, William and Harry with David Manning as their adviser. Manning accompanied Alexander on his first official tour in January 2011 as he toured Auckland and Wellington; Alexander opened the new building of the Supreme Court of New Zealand and was welcomed by a Māori chief. The visit spurred crowds of "many thousands", with positive public reception compared to that of his mother's 1985 tour.

Upon graduation from university, Alexander interned in land management at Chatsworth House and in banking at HSBC. To prepare for his eventual management of the Duchy of Cornwall.

He’s been very private about his relationships and has been linked to multiple woman countless of times even if there’s been zero evidence. He’s a very private person and has a tight knit group of friends. If he hears that you may have been talking, he will cut you off. He definitely doesn’t like the fact that his business is out there for everyone to see.

[shuttlenz-blog]

Devonport, New Zealand, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Auckland Domain Winter gardens, Parnell Rose Garden – Auckland Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park, Mission Bay, One Tree Hill Eden Park Cricket & Rugby Stadium, Sky City Auckland (entry fees not Included) , SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium (entry fees not Included), Auckland Zoo (entry fees not Included), Auckland Museum (entry fees not Included)

[seekerstours-blog]

Seekers Tours offers exclusive, tailor-made Auckland private tours to tourists who visit New Zealand. With us, you can visit Auckland city and the most attractive tourist spots in the North Island with modern and comfortable vehicles. Visit us today!

[privatenztrip-blog]

Do you want to see and experience the best of Auckland and New Zealand Holidays? PrivateNZTrip Tours offers experienced and reliable guides that enable you to enjoy trips to any of the wonderful attractions in Auckland City. We know about the activities, best places and fun things to do in Auckland. We provide pick up and drop off at cruise ships and airports at competitive additional charges as well as free transport to and from all city centre hotels.

[bforbetterthanyou]

Anne Boleyn on Stage and Screen

Giuditta Pasta in the Teatro Carcano‘s production of the opera Anna Bolena (this was the original production of this opera and the title role was written specifically for her voice) — 1830

Apollonia Bertucca in the New York premiere of Anna Bolena — 1850

Violet Vanbrugh in the Lyecum Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 1892

Clara Kimball Young in a short film about Cardinal Wolsey — 1912

Henny Porten in the film Anna Boleyn — 1920

Merle Oberon in the film The Private Life of Henry VIII — 1933

Vivien Leigh in the Open Air Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 1936

Sara Scuderi in Gran Teatre del Liceu‘s production of Anna Bolena — 1947

Joyce Redman in the Broadway production of Anne of the Thousand Days — 1949

Elaine Stewart in the film Young Bess — 1953

Maria Callas in La Scala’s production of Anna Bolena — 1957

Gloria Davy in the American Opera Society’s production of Anna Bolena — 1957

Leyla Gencer in Anna Bolena — 1965

Vanessa Redgrave in the film A Man For All Seasons — 1966

Genevieve Bujold in the film Anne of the Thousand Days — 196

Dorothy Tutin in the BBC miniseries The Six Wives of Henry VIII — 19

Charlotte Rampling in the film Henry VIII and His Six Wives — 197

Beverly Sills in the New York City Opera’s production of Anna Bolena - 1973

Marisa Galvany in the New York City Opera’s production of Anna Bolena — 1974

Barbara Kellerman in the BBC production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 1979

Joan Sutherland in the San Francisco Opera’s production of Anna Bolena — 1984

Oona Kirsch in the film God’s Outlaw — 1986

Edita Gruberová in Anna Bolena — 1994

Jean Marsh in the film Monarch —2000 (this is not a depiction of Anne Boleyn, specifically, but rather an amalgamation of all six wives)

Julia Marsen in the documentary The Six Wives of Henry VIII — 200

Jodhi May in the BBC TV movie The Other Boleyn Girl — 2003

Helena Bonham Carter in the ITV TV movie Henry VIII — 2003

An uncredited actress (as young Anne) in the documentary Kingdom of Scandal — 2003

An uncredited actress (as adult Anne) in the documentary Kingdom of Scandal — 2003

An uncredited actress in the History Happened Here segment Henry VIII & Anne Boleyn — 2007

Mariella Devia in Anna Bolena — 2007

Natalie Dormer in the Showtime series The Tudors — 2007-2008, 2010

Natalie Portman in the film The Other Boleyn Girl — 2008

Karen Peakes in the Folger Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 2010

Miranda Raison in Howard Brenton’s play Anne Boleyn — 2010

Hasmik Papian in the Dallas Opera’s production of Anna Bolena — 2010

Miranda Raison in the Globe Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 2010

Anna Netrebko in the Vienna State Opera’s and Metropolitan Opera’s productions of Anna Bolena — 2011

Emma Connell in the documentary Henry & Anne: The Lovers Who Changed History — 2011

Keri Alkema in the Minnesota Opera’s production of Anna Bolena — 2012

Jo Herbert in the UK tour of Howard Brenton’s Anne Boleyn — 2012

Rochelle Hart in the Opera Seria UK’s production of Anna Bolena — 2012

Anna Jullienne in the Auckland Theatre Company’s production of Howard Brenton’s Anne Boleyn — 2013

Serena Farncocchia in the Welsh National Opera’s production of Anna Bolena — 2013

Fleur Keith in the play Fallen in Love: The Secret Heart of Anne Boleyn performed at the Tower of London — 2013

Tara Breathnach in the documentary The Last Days of Anne Boleyn — 2013

Kathryn Myles in the Actors Shakespeare Project’s production of Shakespeare’s Henry VIII — 2013-2014

Miou Kazune in the Japanese musical Lady Bess — 2014-2017

Sondra Radvanovsky in several productions of Anna Bolena including at The Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Metropolitan Opera, among others — 2014-2015

Claire Foy in the BBC miniseries Wolf Hall — 2015

Harriet Green in the documentary Inside the Court of Henry VIII — 2015

Lydia Leonard in both the West End and Broadway productions of Wolf Hall Parts One & Two — 2015

An unknown actress in the Spanish TV series Carlos, rey emperador — 2015

Claire Cooper in the documentary Six Wives with Lucy Worsley (also known as Secrets of the Six Wives) — 2016

Fleur Keith in the short film I Am Henry — 2016

Harriet Green in the documentary The Six Queens of Henry VIII (also known as Henry VIII and His Six Wives) — 2016; Archive footage of Green in this documentary was also featured in the documentary series Elizabeth I — 2017

Krystin Pellerin in the CW series Reign, season 3 episode “To the Death” — 2016

Anastasia Drew in the documentary The Private Lives of the Tudors — 2016

Gemma Whalen in an episode of the CBBC series Horrible Histories — 2017

Ashleigh Weir in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival production of the musical Six — 2017

Christina Modestou in the Off-West End production of Six — 2017

Millie O’Connell in the original West End production of Six — 2018-2019

Angela Meade in several productions of Anna Bolena throughout the years, most recently in ABAO Bilbao’s production — 2019

Hazel Karooma-Brooker in the Norwegian Cruise Line production of Six — 2019

An uncredited actress in the Starz series The Spanish Princess, season 1 episode “All Is Lost” — 2019

Andrea Macasaet in the North American tour and original Broadway productions of Six — 2019-2020

Courtney Bowman in the West End production of Six — 2019-202

Maddison Bulleyment in the UK tour of Six — 2019-2020

Kala Gare in the Australian tour of Six — 2020

Alice Nokes in The Spanish Princess part 2 — 2020

Jodie Turner-Smith in the Channel 5 miniseries Anne Boleyn — 2021

Rafaelle Cohen in the BBC docuseries The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family — 2021

Amy Manson in the film Spencer — 2021

Amy James-Kelly in the Netflix docudrama Blood, Sex and Royalty — 2022

[brn1029]

What went down on this date in music…

February 25th

1956 - Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley had his first national hit when 'I Forgot To Remember To Forget' went to No.1 on the Billboard Country & Western chart. The Beatles covered this song once for the BBC radio show, From Us To You, on 1 May 1964, with George Harrison on lead vocals.

1957 - Buddy Holly

Buddy Holly recorded a new version of 'That'll Be The Day', at Norman Petty Recording Studio in Clovis, New Mexico. The title being taken from a phrase used by John Wayne in the film 'The Searchers.'

1972 - Paul McCartney

Written after the 'Bloody Sunday Massacre', in Northern Ireland Paul McCartney and Wings released 'Give Ireland Back To The Irish.' The song was banned by the BBC and the IBA. It peaked at No.16 in the UK and No.21 in the US.

1972 - Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin appeared in front of over 25,000 fans at the Western Springs Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand, the group's first ever gig in New Zealand, (and the largest crowd ever to attend a concert on the island). A special train was chartered from Wellington to bring fans to the concert. News reviews the next day reported the band could be heard over five miles from the Stadium.

1984 - Van Halen

'Jump', by Van Halen started a five-week run at No.1 on the US singles chart, (a No.7 hit in the UK). Singer David Lee Roth wrote the lyrics after seeing a television news report about a man who was threatening to commit suicide by jumping off a high building. Roth thought that one of the onlookers of such a scene would probably shout "go ahead and jump".

1995 - Frank Sinatra

At a private party for 1,200 select guests on the closing night of the Frank Sinatra Desert Classic golf tournament, Frank Sinatra sang before a live audience for the very last time. His closing song was 'The Best is Yet to Come'.

2004 - Bruce Springsteen

The Rolling Stones topped a US Rich List of music's biggest money makers. The list was based on earnings during 2003 when the band played their 'Forty Licks' tour, which made them $212 million, (£124.7m) in ticket, CD, DVD and merchandise sales. The three million fans who went to the shows spent an average of $11 (£6.47) each on merchandise. Bruce Springsteen was listed in second place and the Eagles in third.

2009 - Stevie Wonder

President Obama honoured Stevie Wonder his musical hero, with America's highest award for pop music, the Library of Congress' Gershwin prize at a ceremony at the White House. The president said the Motown legend had been the soundtrack to his youth and he doubted that his wife would have married him if he hadn't been a fan. Wonder's song 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered' had been the theme song during Obama's presidential campaign.

2011 - Susan 'Suze' Rotolo

Susan 'Suze' Rotolo, died from lung cancer. She was the one time girlfriend of Bob Dylan, and the inspiration of some of his early songs. Susan appeared in one of the decade's signature images, walking with Dylan arm-in-arm for the cover photo of his breakthrough album Freewheelin Bob Dylan.

2015 - George Harrison

On what would have been George Harrison's 72nd birthday, a new tree was planted in his memory in Griffith Park Los Angeles to replace one that was earlier killed by a beetle infestation. This new yew tree had been chosen to replace the original, as it was far less susceptible to insects.

[tinytourist]

Great Barrier Oasis

On Thursday morning we woke up early and rushed to Wynyard Quarter to catch our ferry to Great Barrier Island. We chose the ferry instead of flights so we could bring our camping gear and food for the whole trip. The ferry was nothing like we envisioned. The majority of the open space was taken up by the carpark, with a single row of seats lining the port and starboard decks. We put on our sweaters and sat on the deck where we were able to enjoy the fresh air and get a tour of the Hauraki Gulf.

We arrived on Great Barrier Island just before 1 PM and picked up our rental car right from the port. From there, we went into the town of Tryphena to rent an additional fishing rod. The mulleted shopkeeper gave us a few tips of things to see on island and we quickly followed his advice. We went straight to the mermaid pools to check them out, but the tides weren’t right so we decided to drive the rest of the way to our campground. 

For the first two nights of our adventure we were staying towards the North end of the Island, near Port Fitzroy, at a place called Orama Oasis. The word oasis is often used as hyperbole, but this was the most accurate depiction of the word that I’ve ever experienced. Our campground was located on a patch of grass overlooking Karaka Bay. The grounds were filled with little villas, a rec center, a big shared kitchen, and private bathrooms with flushable toilets and hot showers. I could’ve stayed there for weeks.

After we toured the grounds, it started pouring. Greg and I unpacked the chilly bin and food in the kitchen while Aidan and David went rock fishing. There were several “work-ups” which is a swarm of birds eating small fish on the surface of the water. This is usually a good sign for fishing, as it means that there are likely a bunch of larger fish feeding below. We saw one of the locals urgently pull his tinney into the water and catch a fish within 4 minutes of getting into the water, on his first cast. 

Aidan and David had similar luck. They came back with three snappers that were big enough to keep! We watched them show off their filleting skills and then quickly set up the tents while there was a break in the rain. Greg fired up the grill and made us some fresh fish burgers for dinner.

We came back to the campsite to find a puddle in my tent! After about twenty minutes of sopping up water, wringing out the towel, and wiping stuff down, the tent was finally habitable again. We were all tired from the long day and passed out pretty early.

On Friday we slept in a bit and went for a hunt along the grounds for kayaks we could rent. There were plenty of kayaks but, to our frustration, none of them were for hire. We decided to go into Port Fitzroy to explore, where we found a lonely port and a burger shop that sold coffee. Up the hill was a general store where the entertainment for the cashier and guests was a brand new Roomba. If the main islands of NZ are a decade behind the US, then GBI is at least 3 decades in the past.

From the store we spotted a sign for a trek with a waterfall and decided to have a go at it. Warrens Loop Track consisted of a path through the bush, canopied by kānuka trees filled in with silver ferns. We made it to a waterfall that was bigger than anticipated, followed the path down to a road, and then to a campground by Rarohara Bay. Greg ran into one of his frisbee friends from Auckland who we continued to encounter throughout the trip. We ate our lunches at the campsite and explored the coast and then went to Whangapoua Beach. The guys embraced their inner child and had a blast bodysurfing in the waves. We walked the length of the quiet beach and found a pool of mini hermit crabs and snails to observe.

Back at camp, the guys went rock fishing while I stayed back to read and relax. I watched a surreal picturesque sunset over the bay and then started to get nervous that the guys weren’t back yet. They had to climb over oyster-lined rocks to get back and the tide was rising. I donned my headlamp and went out to search for them. I didn’t have to go too far before I found them. Luckily they were all fine, but so much for my relaxation! At least they got a few keepers. We were able to make fish tacos with the fresh snapper that were delightful enough to change my mood.

David made us all G&Ts with his fancy new gin and we played too many rounds of President to count. There was much debate over the Kiwi vs. American rules of the game with some negotiation and a little compromise.

[hlupdate]

Harry Styles is lucky I think he's utterly adorable. He's an hour late and I'm guilt-ridden, missing my puppy's first day at puppy school because of it.

Is this what it's like to be a working mum? Maybe. Styles would be horrified if he knew, I'm certain. He is a man of the people, a self-proclaimed feminist, who could surely sympathise with this working (dog) mum's plight.

They say never meet your heroes in case they turn out to be a disappointment, but maybe they should also say never meet your favourite pop stars in case they turn out to be truly terrible at time management.

I first met Styles alongside four of his teenage friends in 2012. It was just a few years since they'd formed One Direction on The X Factor, and this was their first world tour. They were lined up on chintzy armchairs in the private lounge of a stuffy Auckland hotel. That day, a bit like this one, I spent more time sitting in the hallway waiting for my turn than I did interviewing them.

Barely 18, Styles was clearly the charming one, the one with the floppy hair. Some of his bandmates refused to even say hello but he was warm and quick with a cheeky quip.

It suddenly made sense to me why a young girl, from deep inside the throng of screaming fans camped outside, had begged me to slip him a handwritten note simply saying, "I love you."

Those early days are a lifetime ago, and what happened next is now the stuff of legend. One Direction went on to redefine the term "boy band" for an entire generation. They made five albums in four years, won more than 200 awards, toured the world four times and were ranked as the second-highest earning celebrities in the world by Forbes in 2016, the year after the wheels famously fell off. Zayn Malik left the band in 2015 and eventually One Direction went on a break, the kind with no obvious end date.

It hasn't hurt Styles' rise to fame in the slightest. No, he is the 1D member it's cool for grown-ups to like. He's the 20-something love child of Mick Jagger, David Bowie and Stevie Nicks, pushing the envelope through perfect good pop songs and that cheeky smile.

He has dated famous women (think Kardashian-adjacent Kendall Jenner, and Taylor Swift famously wrote songs about their short-lived relationship), toured the world alone and buddied up with Anna Wintour to host the Met Gala.

Styles' first solo, self-titled album was released in 2017, he's taken up acting, appearing in Christopher Nolan's World War II epic Dunkirk, and co-written songs for the likes of Michael Buble and Ariana Grande.

The shackles of being part of a commercially savvy behemoth are gone, and now his personality is coming to the fore. Maybe his stint in the cookiecutter pop group proved enough self-censorship to last a lifetime, or maybe it's just what happens when you get older – Styles just turned 26 – but these days, the young man from Cheshire can't be bothered to people please any more. Instead, he's simply living.

"I had a dream day recently – well, it was in summer," he says from a chilly New York City.

"I was with some friends and we took bikes down to this little lake and we went swimming and had some food and listened to music and we were in the countryside, and then we biked back from the lake and had dinner, I read a little and went to bed. The times I'm happiest are when I'm surrounded by friends and people I care about, talking."

It was during his last world tour, his first without his former bandmates, that he decided being happy is what was  most important, not doing what he thought people – fans, record labels, bandmates – expected of him.

"The best way of describing it was just realising people wanted me to be myself and that's what they came to the show for," he says.

"The last album wasn't necessarily a radio record, but they were still coming to the shows and singing along. It showed they wanted me to be making what I wanted to make – and they wanted to come and join in with that, I guess.

"It's probably more important to be real, I guess, than to be making stuff so people like it. Realising that was a big moment for me."

For Styles that liberation has shown itself in many ways, from openly talking about discovering magic mushrooms (he bit off the tip of his tongue during one session), to embracing a type of gender fluidity in the clothes he wears and the fashion choices he makes. Yes, there are Pinterest boards dedicated to every time he has worn nail polish and no, he doesn't like talking about his own sexual identity, previously telling The Guardian: "It's, who cares? Does that make sense? It's just, who cares?"

Would any of that have been a topic of conversation during his One Direction days? Probably not. But through it all, by tabloid  standards, he's remained relatively well-adjusted and scandal-free. Not bad for a kid who, 10 years ago this April, stumbled on to a TV singing show stage aged just 16, and months later was part of the biggest phenomenon to hit pop music in years.

There have been things he has had to learn the hard way, of course, including just how much of himself he really shares with fans. Being a teenager, and suddenly famous, meant there was a time he felt he had to give almost everything – it was simply part of the job.

"When I moved to London and started in music, I was so young, first of all. It wasn't like I knew what was going to happen," he says.

"You are just encouraged to give so much of yourself, and through experiencing different things, I learnt what I liked and what I was comfortable with, and what I didn't like and wasn't comfortable with.

"For me, as things have happened, I go, 'OK, if I give a bit too much of myself away, I don't like it that much.' So, I did it a little bit less and I guess I'm just a lot happier doing it that way.

"And I don't really talk about personal stuff in interviews and stuff, I try and keep that side of my life pretty private. Music, I find it really therapeutic to write that way, it's my outlet for saying how I feel about stuff."

It's a fairly meta experience to have someone you are interviewing tell you, without any aggression or agenda, that they just don't really talk about themselves in interviews, but there it is.

It's not that he's a closed book – he's right, the songs on his latest album, Fine Line, are full of raw emotion about breakups, sex and self-reflection, much more so than other writing he's done. He doesn't want to be that upbeat kid whose job it was to make everyone else comfortable, but equally, he says performing these songs and this side of him will be a special, powerful moment when his Fine Line world tour begins – including a return trip to New Zealand in November.

"I try not to think about the 'putting out' part of the music while I'm making it, and that plays a part in how personal I can get while making it, I guess. I write as if it's for me, and I'm lucky enough to work with a group of people who create an environment where I can be honest and vulnerable when I'm writing.

"And by the time it comes to putting it out, that's when I go, 'Oh, is this too personal?'" he says. "And usually the answer is no, because that's the kind of music I want to make."

[poopgif]

New Zealand Tours: Plan your individual trip

book a trip to new zealandWith its extension of more than 12,500 square metres, Fjordland National Park is the largest in New Zealand - and it offers unique nature experiences. January, February and March are considered to be the warmest months and best time to travel, then it is high season in New Zealand and many travellers are on the road. July is considered the coldest month, in winter it rains more often.

During this time, travellers are requested to follow the instructions regarding hurricanes abroad. Rail transport in New Zealand is operated by both state and private companies. The largest New Zealand railway company isKiwi Rail. There are regular bus services throughout the city of Auckland. Trains from Transdev Auckland serve the city and suburbs, while ferries link the city centre, the north shore and the east, and serve the islands around Auckland.

Distances in New Zealand

Read more about campervan hire New Zealand here.

if you don't find the points you mentioned interesting, it's actually difficult everywhere.

These are the cheapest offers travellers have found on Tripadvisor in the last few weeks.

Violations of the import regulations will be relentlessly met with money- (usually at least 400,- NZ Dollar) and possiblyZealand has definitely got two new crass fans with us, we love this country! especially in the summer months there can be bush and forest fires and as a result of this the infrastructure in tourist areas can be impaired. The Crown Hotel is located just 13 minutes from the beach in Napier. Besides the view of the coast, the original listed building in which the hotel is housed is fascinating. With your partner you will enjoy the Art Deco style furnishings. The places were called Whataroa, Hari Hari, Ross, Ruatapo, Hokitika, Greymouth, Westport where we turned back inland to stay in St Arnaud. The prices are per person for a return trip with hotel stay. These are the cheapest offers that travellers have found on Tripadvisor in the last few weeks. erlebenbe-neuseeland.de is one of over 40 travel websites of erleben-fernreisen GmbH. Founded in 2005 by Mark Lindner and Johannes van Stephaudt with first trips to Thailand and New Zealand, we are now a team of approx.

New Zealand Travel - By train through New Zealand

and Munich, Swiss (LX) from Zurich and Austrian (OS) from Vienna via Hong Kong to Auckland. Air New Zealand (NZ) and Singapore Airlines (SQ) offer codeshare flights from Frankfurt/M., Düsseldorf, Munich and Zurich via Singapore to Auckland and Christchurch.

[calvin-af-crone]

Someone needs to file a missing report on Calvin? When do you think he will leave for his festivals? Tuesday of next week? He will have to come out of his cave then, How are those beautiful babies of yours we have t had an update in awhile. Are they crawling yet?

If I were them, I would have already left for New Zealand to get in some quality sightseeing before the show in Auckland on the 28th. Maybe they’ll share Latergrams when they’re done. I hope, I hope, I hope...

Or maybe they don’t care about visiting Hobbiton or the Mountains of Mordor. If so, they might sprint thru LAX next Tuesday or Wednesday at the latest.  

Our Jet Tracker won’t do us much good on this tour. Calvin will either hire a larger private jet or travel commercial then hire a smaller jet to make the trips between the Australian festivals & on to Thailand & Jakarta w/ layovers at exotic resorts in between. 

At 5 months, my Grand Babies aren’t crawling yet. But Baby Girl now has brown eyes while Baby Boy has kept his blue. And they are developing personalities as different as their eye colors. 

[shuttlenz-blog]

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[cyberneticpeoplespolis]

Stop all “Blood Phosphate” imports! Saharawi resistance figure kicks off speaking tour of Aotearoa

Originally posted on the Organise Aotearoa blog on 07/10/19. Tecber’s tour has already ended but I’m saving all blog posts for posterity. Saharawi resistance figure, Tecber Ahmed Saleh, has begun a tour across New Zealand to talk about life under Moroccan occupation and the role New Zealand’s fertiliser companies have had in prolonging this occupation through importing phosphates from the region.

Morocco invaded Western Sahara in the “Green March” of 1975. Before then, the territory was ruled by Generalissimo Franco’s fascist Spain, but as the despot lay on his deathbed, he signed a secret agreement to split Western Sahara between Morocco in the North and Mauritania in the South. Franco knew that Spain’s colonies wouldn’t be held after his death, and he feared that an independent Western Sahara would join his enemies in the growing decolonial and communist movements in Africa. Rather than allow this, he signed over the territory, and 74,000 Saharawi with it, to nations whom he knew would suppress any communist or decolonial sentiment.

Many Saharawi fled the region at this time, travelling across the desert into Algeria. Others fought a war against Morocco and Mauritania, forcing the latter to withdraw in 1979. Those who remained were bombed repeatedly by Moroccan aircraft carrying napalm, a flammable gasoline jelly which causes horrific burns. The ruling Islamic-nationalist government of Algeria was just as anti-socialist as the Moroccans, but made an exception to the Saharawi resistance fighters due to their own hostility towards Morocco. They granted a swathe of southern Algeria to the refugees, who administer the harsh desert region autonomously.

The exiled population in the camps has now reached 173,600. This was the place where Ahmed Saleh was born. The Saharawi have been waiting for a referendum for self-determination, agreed to by Morocco in a United Nations peace plan, since 1991, but it has not yet been put on the table by the Moroccan government.

Phosphate, used as a high-grade fertiliser, has historically been the only significant resource in the region. The Spanish ran large mining colonies in the territory, and these were later taken over by the Moroccans, who now have a near-monopoly on the world’s supply. The state-owned OCP corporation accounts for a significant portion of Morocco’s economy, and funds the lifestyle of the “progressive” monarch, Mohammed VI, whose 12 palaces cost $1 million per-day to operate.

New Zealand is the only country in which private companies still import the “blood phosphate” from the conflict zone, where human rights abuses are common. Western Sahara accounts for around a sixth of the Maghrebi phosphate industry, and even though open warfare has been over for nearly 3 decades, the situation in the territory is one of brutal occupation. The Saharawi people still see no benefit from the exploitation of their only natural resource.

Human rights violations include widely corroborated reports of torture, police brutality, and the repeated arrest and sentencing of members of human rights NGOs. Journalists are also frequently targeted with “assaults, arrests and harassment.”

“New Zealand fertiliser companies, Ravensdown and Ballance Agri-Nutrients, have been buying phosphate from The OCP Group, controlled by the Moroccan Royal Family,” says spokesperson for the Western Sahara Solidarity campaign, Mike Barton. “There’s profit to be made by extracting phosphate from Western Sahara, and our trade is undermining Saharawi human rights.”

“New Zealand needs to stop importing blood phosphate from Western Sahara.”

Ravensdown maintains that it is confident the practice is still legal under international law, despite the mounting weight of international resolutions and even legal blockades of ships carrying phosphate to NZ. The ship Cherry Blossom was detained in South Africa in 2017 with a 54,000 tonne cargo of phosphate worth $5 million destined for Ballance in Tauranga. South African legal teams took a stand against New Zealand and determined that the rock belonged to the Saharawi people.

However Morocco has applied its own campaign on international pressure, using its diplomatic staff and lobbyists to silence discussion of Saharawi self-determination wherever possible. Ahmed Saleh’s sold-out tour of Australia was cut short when she was prevented from speaking at the University of Sydney due to pressure from the Morroccan embassy.

Ahmed Saleh kicked off her New Zealand tour with a visit to the land occupation site at Ihumātao, and spoke in Auckland the following night. She has a speaking appointment in Hamilton tonight, before moving on to Christchurch, Dunedin Wellington, and Lower Hutt.

Hamilton: October 7, 6:30pm at the Meteor.

Christchurch: October 9, 7pm at WEA Canterbury Workers’ Educational Association.

Dunedin: October 10, 6pm at University of Otago Castle 1 Theatre.

Wellington: October 14, 7pm at Thistle Hall.

Lower Hutt: October 15, 7:30pm at Waiwhetu Uniting Church.