Are we really going to swallow Bill's 'Dead Rat' budget?
Can we accept that English's definition of 'nice to have' matches our own?
Will we be willing to suspend our disbelief that Key and English are sitting pretty, packed to the chops with cash they've awarded themselves since coming into power?
Have false claims like those of Key that he 'won't raise GST' be ignored by the greater bulk of New Zealanders who can see their spending power diminish day by day?
Will we just ignore the cavalier attitude of the Government and in particular John Key over the extravagant purchase of a fleet of uber-comfortable, very expensive limousines for National MP's to jam themselves into, rather than walk the chewing-gum blotched streets of the Capital?
Nope. I don't reckon we will. I think there will be an almighty stink arise as the result of English reading this 'budget for the well-off'. And that stink will cling to English and Key no matter how often they launder their beautifully tailored suits and rub vaseline on their teeth.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Interesting fact #1
I travel into town on council days, with a woman who wears a moko on her chin.
Bi-cultural car-pooling!
Bi-cultural car-pooling!
Indoor growing
As I was biking down to the town this morning, I looked up as I passed the Aparima Hotel, which overlooks the estuary, facing north into the blazing Southland sun, to see a second-storey window filled with leaves! I know what you're thinkng and yes, they were tomatoes!
I took this shot, checked with the delightful publicans that it was fine to publish and to mention how well the tomatoes had grown in that sunny room, heated from below by the warmth of the hospitality and bonhomie in the pool bar beneath.
Good use of space!
I took this shot, checked with the delightful publicans that it was fine to publish and to mention how well the tomatoes had grown in that sunny room, heated from below by the warmth of the hospitality and bonhomie in the pool bar beneath.
Good use of space!
We're all boof-heads now!
Ah! The stupification of New Zealanders is complete. Rugby has at last taken its rightful place alongside of English Maths and Science in our school curriculum.
Rejoice with us as we sit at our desks, mouth-guards in place, reeking of liniment and grunting out by rote the only phrases we need to know to make our education complete - 'it was a game of two halves' and 'the boys dug deep and came up with the win'. It won't be long until exercise books are removed from the classroom equation and replaced with cardboard Lion Brown beer-coasters.
It's a very happy day for us all!
Rejoice with us as we sit at our desks, mouth-guards in place, reeking of liniment and grunting out by rote the only phrases we need to know to make our education complete - 'it was a game of two halves' and 'the boys dug deep and came up with the win'. It won't be long until exercise books are removed from the classroom equation and replaced with cardboard Lion Brown beer-coasters.
It's a very happy day for us all!
Green blogger in Tory territory
Dave Kennedy's blogging for good in the south. His blog Local Bodies was begun a while ago in response to local body issues but has expanded in its scope with Dave adopting the mantle of Green Party candidate for Invercargill, charged with removing Eric Roy from his plum position as National Party trougher in the south.
Dave has every chance of doing it too. He's bright and alert - typical Greenie I suppose, and has wide support across agencies, especially Education, where he would slay Anne Tolley in any discussion (mind you, who couldn't?).
Dave posted on an issue close to my own heart recently, titling it 'Real Men Have Big Gardens' How right he is! Those of you with tiny plots or none at all would be well advised not to visit Local Bodies, for fear of feeling inadequate!
Dave has every chance of doing it too. He's bright and alert - typical Greenie I suppose, and has wide support across agencies, especially Education, where he would slay Anne Tolley in any discussion (mind you, who couldn't?).
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| Dave's big garden |
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
How Tom beat Captain Najork and his Hired Sportsmen
Some reviews:
Captain Najork has been a favourite in our house since my 16 year old son Tom enjoyed 'fooling around'. It is one of the funniest children's books ever and if you enjoy a bit of quirkiness in the style of Quentin Blake then this book is for you. Parts of this book have become standard conversation in our house, 'eat your mutton and your cabbage and potato sog'and 'She fancies you, I can tell by the way she looks sideways from underneath her iron hat.'
Having lost our copy several years ago, we were so pleased to buy this and share it with Martha aged 4 and laugh over and over again.
Wonderful.
If you want a David and Goliath story about the triumph of a lad with laid-back play skills over a quasi-military villain with his disciplined team of competitors, this one is for you. Tom totally befuddles Captain Najork and his team of sportsmen and, into the bargain, marries off his steely maiden aunt with her Iron Hat and gains a sweet, collegial replacement whom he hires. I read it to my kids a zillion years ago and it never palls even now. Magnificent and heart warming.
The first time our family set eyes on this book was when we borrowed it from our mobile library. It became a classic when the kids were young, and we went on the borrow it a number of times. Phrases from it became part of our everyday language, such as lets do some "high up fooling around and low down fooling around", lets play "womble, muck, and sneedball", and I think I'll go and "learn the nautical almanac". When our younger son reached 18 years of age we decided to buy him a copy as a joke present. We wrapped it and presented it to him at our local pub where we were having a celebratory drink on his birthday. It was a present to be savoured. We ended up having a ceremonial reading, much to our great amusement. All the other customers wondered what all the laughter was about. Had they known they would have been as hysterical as we were. Whenever the family recalls great examples of children's books this is always at the top of the list. Its a cracking read for grown ups as well. I defy anybody not to laugh. We still have the book and still refer to it.
Dwile flonking
Shane Pleasance left a comment on my 'Maypole' post that has rocked my world!
Shane says:
I used to watch many a maypole dance from my dads shop window in Shrewsbury of a Saturday morning.
How about following up with a little dwile flonking, the occasional pastime of my birthplace?
It took me seconds to employ Wikipedia to fill the gaping hole in my education:
A 'dull witted person' is chosen as the referee or 'jobanowl' and the two teams decide who flonks first by tossing a sugar beet. The game begins when the jobanowl shouts "Here y'go t'gither!"
The non-flonking team joins hands and dances in a circle around a member of the flonking team, a practice known as 'girting'. The flonker dips his dwile-tipped 'driveller' (a pole 2–3 ft long and made from hazel or yew) into a bucket of beer, then spins around in the opposite direction to the girters and flonks his dwile at them.
If the dwile misses completely it is known as a 'swadger' or a 'swage'. When this happens the flonker must drink the contents of an ale-filled 'gazunder' (chamber pot ('goes-under' the bed)) before the wet dwile has passed from hand to hand along the line of now non-girting girters chanting the ancient ceremonial mantra of "pot pot pot".
A full game comprises four 'snurds', each snurd being one team taking a turn at girting. The jobanowl adds interest and difficulty to the game by randomly switching the direction of rotation, and will levy drinking penalties on any player found not taking the game seriously enough.
Points are awarded as follows:
I'm not sure I believe all that, but am nevertheless planning to gather the bits and bobs needed for a hearty round of dwile flonking, and with some real-time guidance from Shane, play til I/we drop!
Care to join us?
Shane says:
I used to watch many a maypole dance from my dads shop window in Shrewsbury of a Saturday morning.
How about following up with a little dwile flonking, the occasional pastime of my birthplace?
It took me seconds to employ Wikipedia to fill the gaping hole in my education:
A 'dull witted person' is chosen as the referee or 'jobanowl' and the two teams decide who flonks first by tossing a sugar beet. The game begins when the jobanowl shouts "Here y'go t'gither!"
The non-flonking team joins hands and dances in a circle around a member of the flonking team, a practice known as 'girting'. The flonker dips his dwile-tipped 'driveller' (a pole 2–3 ft long and made from hazel or yew) into a bucket of beer, then spins around in the opposite direction to the girters and flonks his dwile at them.
If the dwile misses completely it is known as a 'swadger' or a 'swage'. When this happens the flonker must drink the contents of an ale-filled 'gazunder' (chamber pot ('goes-under' the bed)) before the wet dwile has passed from hand to hand along the line of now non-girting girters chanting the ancient ceremonial mantra of "pot pot pot".
A full game comprises four 'snurds', each snurd being one team taking a turn at girting. The jobanowl adds interest and difficulty to the game by randomly switching the direction of rotation, and will levy drinking penalties on any player found not taking the game seriously enough.
Points are awarded as follows:
- +3: a 'wanton'- a direct hit on a girter's head
- +2: a 'morther' or 'marther'- a body hit
- +1: a 'ripple' or 'ripper'- a leg hit
- -1 per sober person at the end of the game
I'm not sure I believe all that, but am nevertheless planning to gather the bits and bobs needed for a hearty round of dwile flonking, and with some real-time guidance from Shane, play til I/we drop!
Care to join us?
Go the spurs!
Driving home this evening I was amazed to see a parliament of ... starlings, up and down the power wires alongside of the road, strung out like black pearls on a necklace ... nah, they didn't look at all like pearls, more hunched 'rabbits of the sky' as some farmers call them, roosting after a day stealing grain from the fields and I was reminded of a great time I'd had years and years ago on the farm in front of which the bird-encrusted wires hung heavily (whew!).
There were wild roosters ruling the then-abandoned farm, strutting about during the day, hammering their hens mercilessly and creating merry hell for any humans that wandered onto the ramshackle farm for a nose-about. The local Lions club (Roar!) decided to do the township a service by capturing the flint-eyed cocks and, as a then-member of the club (Roar!) I signed up for the cockerel-clean-up. We struck at dusk, as the roosters settled onto the branches of the overgrown macrocarpa. My task, as youngest and most nimble Lion (Roar!) was to scramble up the trees (they chose high perches!), slip my fingers over their feet as they clutched the branch, and drag them, screeching (I thought, bellowing, they were big birds. 'Bellowing' is a bit much though, screeching will do) down to the waiting Lions-men below. I had to take care not to get stuck with the enormous spurs that sprouted from the back of each cocky-leg, or shredded by the beaks at the other end.
I caught a dozen birds, all black, or so my memory tells me. I had a lot of fun doing it but was a little saddened that the reign of the roosters ended, at my hand, simply because they were 'getting out of control'. Now-a-days, I'd leave them be and enjoy their waywardness, perhaps even egg them on as they cocked-a-snook at all and sundry. Etc.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Estuary care
Our estuary care group met this evening (I'm the chairman). We mainly talked about how enjoyable it is to belong to the group - we know each other well and our meetings are very convivial. We've managed our investments very well over the years and don't have to ask for funding for any projects we might want to take on and that's an enabling thing! We decided tonight, to hold a 4th Estuary Festival along the lines of the first three and will have the Mudman Race as the drawcard and a variety of water, sand and mud activities to support the popular race. In the past we've had hovercraft, jet boats, street parades and a ball as part of the festival but this time there's a hunger for new things, exciting and creative things. We've six months to plan and I know we'll put on something memorable when summer comes.
Watch this salty space!
Watch this salty space!
Maypole
I'm making a maypole from a long, straight holly trunk I cut recently. The pole is about 12 feet long (maypoles are measured in feet) and strong enough to support a dozen dancers. I debarked it today using the draw-knife I bought last week. I've lain the pole down flat, with plenty of air circulating, out of doors, under some trees and have covered it with oat stooks left over from the harvest festival, to keep it from drying out too fast. While I'm waiting for it to cure, I'll seek out enough ribbon for the purpose and come next spring, there'll be some dancing on the village green! (I'll have to also organize a village green and enough dancers but that's easily done). For now, progress is good!
Environmental idiots!
“They’re just environmental idiots who will have disappeared again soon,” said Former German Chancellor Helmut Schmid, badly miscalculating the power of Green in Germany.
Metiria Turei, our own Green leader, explores the excellent news that the Green Party in Germany is to lead (that's LEAD for those of you who are short-sighted and/or from the Right :-) the coalition government, with the traditional left party, the Social Democrats, taking the minor party role, as described by Metiria on Frogblog.
I won't go on, you can nip over and check it out yourself but rest assured, I'm pretty happy and hugely encouraged by the development. Labour may be languishing a little at the moment, but that just gives us Greens the opportunity to also lead the coalition from the Left, after the coming election.
Metiria Turei, our own Green leader, explores the excellent news that the Green Party in Germany is to lead (that's LEAD for those of you who are short-sighted and/or from the Right :-) the coalition government, with the traditional left party, the Social Democrats, taking the minor party role, as described by Metiria on Frogblog.
I won't go on, you can nip over and check it out yourself but rest assured, I'm pretty happy and hugely encouraged by the development. Labour may be languishing a little at the moment, but that just gives us Greens the opportunity to also lead the coalition from the Left, after the coming election.
Dehydrating
Poke your apple onto the prongs of the peeler, corer, slicer and turn the handle for 5 seconds. Pull apple spiral free, run a knife blade through the centre then arrange 'moons' on cane frame. Place into dehyrator cabinet and turn fan heater on (low, cool setting) Leave running for 2 hours.
Here they are.
Practically effortless and able to produce dried apple by the bucket-load!
Here they are.
Practically effortless and able to produce dried apple by the bucket-load!
Hairy giants
Last weeks on-line NZ Gardener published some advice I had written a couple of years ago, about growing your own Supertom tomatoes. I learned the trick from an old chap who was revelling in the discovery that he could by-pass the expensive 'buy one from a garden centre' option by growing and grafting his own. I have since had a lot of feed back from the story and was interested to see it surface again.
Here's the article and a link to the on-line Gardener, which you can sign up for, free, and receive every week, if you so desire.
Q. Could you please tell me how or where I could get some seed of the tomatoes that are used for grafting to make Supertoms? I am keen to try to graft my own next year. I hope you or some of your readers may be able to help me. Bill Harrison, Geraldine
A. Here's some advice from Homegrown Tomatoes (though you'll have to wait to try this until next year, as you need to grow the plants on for a season to get the seed). Supertoms have been a big hit since their introduction. These grafted plants promise huge crops – and deliver them by the bucketful. If you’ve ever bought one of these extra-vigorous wonder tomatoes you’ll have noticed evidence of tampering on the lower stem. They’ve been grafted, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Grafting isn’t about genetic modification or other scientific tricks – it’s simply strapping the head of a top-fruiting type to the vigorous roots of a workhorse. Grafted tomatoes don’t come cheap, but canny gardeners can grow their own grafted plants. This is a two-year process but it’s well worth giving it a go. You need to start by buying a Supertom. Then – and this is the hard part – lop off its head. Chop off the ‘Moneymaker’ or ‘Kakanui 2000’ and let the rootstock grow into a wild, hairy looking beast. At the end of the season, let its small, hard, hairy fruit ripen and save the seeds. Sow these next year and – voila! – you have your own rampant rootstock on which to graft your favourite varieties. To graft two tomatoes, slice off a little section of the outer layer of the stem of both, then bind gently with tape. The two plants quickly become one as the wounds heal together. Once this has been achieved, cut the top off the wild tomato, leaving only the desirable fruiter to grow. It’s no great art and a lot of fun. Robert Guyton
Here's the article and a link to the on-line Gardener, which you can sign up for, free, and receive every week, if you so desire.
Q. Could you please tell me how or where I could get some seed of the tomatoes that are used for grafting to make Supertoms? I am keen to try to graft my own next year. I hope you or some of your readers may be able to help me. Bill Harrison, Geraldine
A. Here's some advice from Homegrown Tomatoes (though you'll have to wait to try this until next year, as you need to grow the plants on for a season to get the seed). Supertoms have been a big hit since their introduction. These grafted plants promise huge crops – and deliver them by the bucketful. If you’ve ever bought one of these extra-vigorous wonder tomatoes you’ll have noticed evidence of tampering on the lower stem. They’ve been grafted, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Grafting isn’t about genetic modification or other scientific tricks – it’s simply strapping the head of a top-fruiting type to the vigorous roots of a workhorse. Grafted tomatoes don’t come cheap, but canny gardeners can grow their own grafted plants. This is a two-year process but it’s well worth giving it a go. You need to start by buying a Supertom. Then – and this is the hard part – lop off its head. Chop off the ‘Moneymaker’ or ‘Kakanui 2000’ and let the rootstock grow into a wild, hairy looking beast. At the end of the season, let its small, hard, hairy fruit ripen and save the seeds. Sow these next year and – voila! – you have your own rampant rootstock on which to graft your favourite varieties. To graft two tomatoes, slice off a little section of the outer layer of the stem of both, then bind gently with tape. The two plants quickly become one as the wounds heal together. Once this has been achieved, cut the top off the wild tomato, leaving only the desirable fruiter to grow. It’s no great art and a lot of fun. Robert Guyton
Monday, March 28, 2011
Saw point
Here's the saw I'll be using this coming pruning season. It's a very, very sharp Japanese number and comes with this handy-dandy wooden scabbard. I'll be very upset if ever I leave it out in the rain, the fate of many pruning saws I have known.
Royal priorities
What a contrast shown in tonight's news!
Prince Charles, attending the memorial for Christchurch at Westminster Abbey, while New Zealand's darling, William Windsor, is reported to be having a secret stag party!
Where's the 'love for New Zealand' that Key claimed William had a week ago?
Good on ya Charles!
Prince Charles, attending the memorial for Christchurch at Westminster Abbey, while New Zealand's darling, William Windsor, is reported to be having a secret stag party!
Where's the 'love for New Zealand' that Key claimed William had a week ago?
Good on ya Charles!
Bully for Key
Prime Minister John Key is taking a hard line in response to recent youtube video showing bullying in schools. He's instructed Anne Tolley to write to school Boards of Trustees, asking .... oh ... that's it? That's the hard line from Key?
Inspirational!
Inspirational!
Bronze Bryan
Bryan sells bronze garden tools and has a great grin. The hooked tool is called a 'hog's tusk', though it's said in German. I couldn't remember how it went. Bryan doesn't sharpen the tools with a file (would you - they're expensive!) - he peens them with a peening hammer and a peening something or other. An anvil perhaps. There was a lot going on yesterday and I wasn't as attentive to detail as usual. I didn't buy any of these but I did get a beautiful Japanese pruning saw which nests in a wooden scabbard. I'll be strapping that on come mid-winter and apple pruning time.
Grace's dibber, Grace's gypsy rose
Grace was the tutor for woodland crafts at the Harvest festival and produced these as part of her workshop. The dibber is for...dibbing, making holes for planting into, and the gypsy rose is just for decoration. Both are made from hazel wands and shaped with a draw-knife while being held in a vice.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Earth Hour Squared
Turning out your lights for an hour seems a simple enough statement of support for sustainable living and surely wouldn't attract criticism from anyone other than the power company representatives, but it surely does!
It's usual for some hard-bitten conservative commentators to deride the practice, labling the practitioners 'luddites', claiming that it does 'no good' and crowing how they'll negate the actions of the 'light-savers' by 'turning on every light in the house' etc. How amusing they are and how we laugh at their witty ways!
Naturally enough, the Luddites of Riverton (there's a lot of us!) celebrated Earth Hour with not one, but two hours with the electricity turned off. That'll show the Oncelers! There were around 40 of us, celebrating the harvest with a feast at the (old, country) town hall. We did burn candles though (It's not easy being green - sometimes you just have to do the best you can.) We had music to get us through the dark hours - unplugged acoustic of course, and singing. Even a dancing girl. It was a merry time indeed. The right-wing naysayers who loathe such merriment would have been infuriated by the fun we had. There was wine, beer and cider, punch too and acres of food.
When I got back home I found I'd left the bathroom light on, don't tell anyone (there were more moths on the ceiling than I've seen all year - I guess with all of Riverton's lights turned off, they came like moths to a ...)
It's usual for some hard-bitten conservative commentators to deride the practice, labling the practitioners 'luddites', claiming that it does 'no good' and crowing how they'll negate the actions of the 'light-savers' by 'turning on every light in the house' etc. How amusing they are and how we laugh at their witty ways!
Naturally enough, the Luddites of Riverton (there's a lot of us!) celebrated Earth Hour with not one, but two hours with the electricity turned off. That'll show the Oncelers! There were around 40 of us, celebrating the harvest with a feast at the (old, country) town hall. We did burn candles though (It's not easy being green - sometimes you just have to do the best you can.) We had music to get us through the dark hours - unplugged acoustic of course, and singing. Even a dancing girl. It was a merry time indeed. The right-wing naysayers who loathe such merriment would have been infuriated by the fun we had. There was wine, beer and cider, punch too and acres of food.
When I got back home I found I'd left the bathroom light on, don't tell anyone (there were more moths on the ceiling than I've seen all year - I guess with all of Riverton's lights turned off, they came like moths to a ...)
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Very difficult mystery photo challenge
If you can guess what this is, you are the possessor of some very specialist knowledge!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Everything's in place...
The hall is filled with fruit and vegetables. There are banners and balloons. The stooks are standing waiting, the apple-peelers poised. Pumpkins and marrows, scallopino and kumikumi stacked on trestles, kowiniwini and la ratte arranged on burlap sacks. Crunchy apples swing on strings, waiting for the teeth of hungry children to close around them, the cider presses sit, dry for now but come morning ...
I'm hoping for a good article in tomorrow's paper - the interview went well and the photos I sent through looked very festive and bounteous.
We've been a very busy team of festival organisers and now it's time to get some shut-eye (with the fragrance of apple pies emanating from the kitchen and the sound of light rain on the roof.)
Po marie.
I'm hoping for a good article in tomorrow's paper - the interview went well and the photos I sent through looked very festive and bounteous.
We've been a very busy team of festival organisers and now it's time to get some shut-eye (with the fragrance of apple pies emanating from the kitchen and the sound of light rain on the roof.)
Po marie.
From the festival
This morning I went down to the school to collect the vegetable creatures made by the kids. These two are fun - the first, a duck, has great sweet pepper webbed feet and the second, the rear end of a cabbage elephant, has a marvelous tail, a chive flower I think.
Busy, busy day
Today will be a flurry of activity for the Riverton crew. We are making preparations for the weekend's harvest festival and there is much to do. First up this morning is a trip to the school to collect the vegetable models. Last year, there were dozens of potato dinosaurs, carrot cars and horses made from marrows waiting for me when I arrived to transport them back to the 'harvest hall' - this year I expect there'll be as many if not more. Kids like making things out of vegetables and their creativity knows no bounds. Then I'll be gathering up produce from all over: strings of shallots, trays of garlic, sacks of corn, bins of pumpkins - anything and everything that says 'autumn harvest'. We've apples galore, all sorted into their varieties and ready to be displayed and tasted, the cider presses to be lugged down to the hall and set up ready for pressing - all manner of things to move about. I'll be making an extra large plate of oatmeal and stewed peasegood this morning! Our 'Harvets Festival' t-shirts arrived last night and they're looking great - we'll be colourful walking advertisements for the festival where ever we go. The Times didn't do themselves proud at all this year by advertising us the way they did last year so we'll have to wait and see how our visitor numbers look but at this late stage we don't care at all and have friends from all over coming to take part in the workshops, the Saturday night feast and the general weekend of standing around talking and eating, sampling ciders and pressing apples, catching up with each other and having a go at learning something new.
If you are in the vicinity, come along too. The festival is at the Aparima college hall, Riverton, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00am to 4:oo pm both days.
I'll be up-dating here as events unfold, for the record, and posting photos of the best vegetables and so on.
If you are in the vicinity, come along too. The festival is at the Aparima college hall, Riverton, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00am to 4:oo pm both days.
I'll be up-dating here as events unfold, for the record, and posting photos of the best vegetables and so on.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Just hopeless
A lot of New Zealanders must have given their support to the National Party, John Key and Bill English at the last election because of their perceived abilities with handling financial issues but now it has become obvious that the belief in those politicians was misplaced. Key and English have not lived up to expectations. They've failed to apply their much lauded skills with growing our pile of money and in fact have 'managed' us into a flat-line, not what New Zealanders wanted and certainly not what they expected. If there was to be any measure of success that Key was expected to meet, it was one involving the blossoming of the country's finances. We've all been bitterly disappointed by their performance. It's usual these days to cite the earthquake as the reason for the hopeless performance but the great hope with Key and National was that they'd make the economy hum, no matter what. Well, they've failed to do the simplest of the things expected of them, in fact, they've done worse than even cynical Left-wingers might have expected and it's not funny. Ordinary New Zealanders are not saying, 'oh well, John'll step it up soon, he's just been playing the markets in an extra-clever way that's beyond the understanding of us ordinary folk', they know he's not coping, that English has failed to manage us through difficult times, that they've succumbed to the pressures and failed to 'grow the pie' or 'make the step change'. The suggestion that we will 'catch up with Australia' has long since been consigned to the bin of history and won't be mentioned by Key or English again, ever, so far short of that target have they fallen.
It's all a huge disappointment to all New Zealanders and very, very revealing of the quality of the two National money men.
It's all a huge disappointment to all New Zealanders and very, very revealing of the quality of the two National money men.
Fledgling Commissioner
That's me on the far left, beside the Chairman and his brass bell.
It was a very interesting experience and I had a lot of questions for the applicants and submitters alike.
I think we reached the right conclusion, made good decisions and looked pretty sharp all at the same time.
I've had to Photoshop myself and my fellow commissioners out of the shot for legal reasons, but you could imagine-in some responsible looking characters (or some monkeys, depending upon your point of view) to complete the scene.
Royal rip-off
A mistake made with the new royal stamp has the House of Windsor right-royally red-faced.
In an embarrassing over-sight, the Queen has failed to pick up the blunder at the time she signed-off the new stamp, featuring her son and his bride to be. The usually beady-eyed Liz over-looked the mis-titling of William, missing the words "Willy Wonka" below his image. She is understood to be mortified by her mistake and has described it as worse than any annus horribilus she's ever known.
Willy was not available for comment but it's understood he'll continue with his production of the world's best chocolate, despite the incident.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Winston's winning ways
Winston Peters is infuriating. I don't like his political manouverings at all, except where his strategies disadvantage those I oppose as well. I wouldn't trust him one iota, should he be in a position to decide the fate of the political party I support, but his recent speech has all the elements of a serious upset for the Government and I'm revelling in it's directness.
In it he says many things and scores many hits - bull's-eyes in fact and ones that will have Mr Key and his strategists scrambling. The Standard has the whole speech and the link is here. I especially liked this section, where Winston confirms my suspicion that he'll play the 'sitting on the cross-benches' card,
" If we have to, and if that is what NZ First decides, we will be pleased to sit on the cross benches guarding the interests of ALL New Zealanders."
and this, where he makes it clear that he understands and opposes Key's plans to sell our most valuable assets,
"You are being softened up for cuts in social spending in the next Budget.
Every day the Prime Minister and senior cabinet ministers tell the nation how bad things are.
And every day a new figure of ten, fifteen, twenty billion is thrown about as the amount of extra money the government will need.
This is a clear signal that more state assets will be sold than the government is letting on.
Surely someone, somewhere in this government knows the folly of selling state assets.
For example, the state companies that generate electricity are going to be partially privatised.
Now why would anyone of sane mind sell off its only renewable sources of energy.
Make no mistake.
If our power stations are part of a public share float they will end up owned overseas.
Probably by China because China is one of the few countries that are in the black."
I've commented on my old friend Inv2's blog, where he and I enjoy ragging each other but as he so often sends me back here to post at 'home' rather than sully his with my 'revolutionary' comments, I've added that to this post, for the record :-)
If we have to, and if that is what NZ First decides, we will be pleased to sit on the cross benches guarding the interests of ALL New Zealanders."
Tomorrow, when you have put the sad things behind you Inv2, it'll be time to read this speech by Winston Peters and, like so many others on the Right, quake in your boots!
National's in trouble when there are speeches like this one of Winston's out there - people will flock to those ideas.
Holding up a pissy little 'no' sign at the back of the hall when Winston is delivering this kind of thing to the many, many New Zealanders who recognise this message as a true one, will earn Farrar a crack on his thick head with a stick.
In it he says many things and scores many hits - bull's-eyes in fact and ones that will have Mr Key and his strategists scrambling. The Standard has the whole speech and the link is here. I especially liked this section, where Winston confirms my suspicion that he'll play the 'sitting on the cross-benches' card,
" If we have to, and if that is what NZ First decides, we will be pleased to sit on the cross benches guarding the interests of ALL New Zealanders."
and this, where he makes it clear that he understands and opposes Key's plans to sell our most valuable assets,
"You are being softened up for cuts in social spending in the next Budget.
Every day the Prime Minister and senior cabinet ministers tell the nation how bad things are.
And every day a new figure of ten, fifteen, twenty billion is thrown about as the amount of extra money the government will need.
This is a clear signal that more state assets will be sold than the government is letting on.
Surely someone, somewhere in this government knows the folly of selling state assets.
For example, the state companies that generate electricity are going to be partially privatised.
Now why would anyone of sane mind sell off its only renewable sources of energy.
Make no mistake.
If our power stations are part of a public share float they will end up owned overseas.
Probably by China because China is one of the few countries that are in the black."
I've commented on my old friend Inv2's blog, where he and I enjoy ragging each other but as he so often sends me back here to post at 'home' rather than sully his with my 'revolutionary' comments, I've added that to this post, for the record :-)
If we have to, and if that is what NZ First decides, we will be pleased to sit on the cross benches guarding the interests of ALL New Zealanders."
Tomorrow, when you have put the sad things behind you Inv2, it'll be time to read this speech by Winston Peters and, like so many others on the Right, quake in your boots!
National's in trouble when there are speeches like this one of Winston's out there - people will flock to those ideas.
Holding up a pissy little 'no' sign at the back of the hall when Winston is delivering this kind of thing to the many, many New Zealanders who recognise this message as a true one, will earn Farrar a crack on his thick head with a stick.
Nonsuch and Hips
 |
| Skinny hips |
Harvesting Rokewoods
The ordinary-sized ones are Rokewoods, the big'uns, Peasegoods. This photo was taken half-way through this morning's picking from two Rokewood trees. Hazel and Grace picked, I lugged full baskets.
Pak N Save - dirty little sneaks!
From Scoop:
Pak N Save “Farmers’ Market” campaign under fire
The current advertising campaign by Pak N Save, comparing themselves to “a Farmers’ Market, except indoors” is grossly misleading and little more than an attempt to leverage off the good name and continuing growth and success of Authentic Farmers’ Markets.
A Farmers’ Market is a community of independent growers and artisan food producers who meet regularly to sell their food products directly to the public. That food is produced in a defined local region. There are no middle men, no supply contracts, no bulk buying agreements, just independent producers selling their food products at fair prices.
Pak N Save supermarkets do not resemble Farmers’ Markets in any way; they do not sell only food, the people who produce the food do not sell it and the food is not grown or made only in a defined local region.
A complaint has been laid with the Commerce Commission under the fair-trading act in regards to misleading the shopping consumers of New Zealand.
The focus of the Pak N Save, an Australian owned food chain, is “New Zealand’s lowest food prices” whereas the focus of Farmers’ Markets is to provide access for the public to high quality, seasonal, locally produced food, thereby supporting the local economy and social fabric of New Zealand.
Farmers’ Markets New Zealand urges shoppers not to be fooled by this advertising campaign and see for themselves by visiting a Farmers' Market near them."
We have a Farmers' Market here in Riverton, perhaps the country's smallest and probably the only 100% organic farmers market in the land. I feel quite confident in saying that Pak N Save is about as far as you could possibly get from being a farmers' market, as they are claiming to be. The arrogant cheek of the clumsy oafs! Dirty little sneaks!
Pak N Save “Farmers’ Market” campaign under fire
Pak N Save “Farmers’ Market” campaign under fire
The current advertising campaign by Pak N Save, comparing themselves to “a Farmers’ Market, except indoors” is grossly misleading and little more than an attempt to leverage off the good name and continuing growth and success of Authentic Farmers’ Markets.
A Farmers’ Market is a community of independent growers and artisan food producers who meet regularly to sell their food products directly to the public. That food is produced in a defined local region. There are no middle men, no supply contracts, no bulk buying agreements, just independent producers selling their food products at fair prices.
A complaint has been laid with the Commerce Commission under the fair-trading act in regards to misleading the shopping consumers of New Zealand.
The focus of the Pak N Save, an Australian owned food chain, is “New Zealand’s lowest food prices” whereas the focus of Farmers’ Markets is to provide access for the public to high quality, seasonal, locally produced food, thereby supporting the local economy and social fabric of New Zealand.
Farmers’ Markets New Zealand urges shoppers not to be fooled by this advertising campaign and see for themselves by visiting a Farmers' Market near them."
We have a Farmers' Market here in Riverton, perhaps the country's smallest and probably the only 100% organic farmers market in the land. I feel quite confident in saying that Pak N Save is about as far as you could possibly get from being a farmers' market, as they are claiming to be. The arrogant cheek of the clumsy oafs! Dirty little sneaks!
Taking back what's given.
In what seems to me to be a serious sign of trouble for the Maori Party, gifts of goodwill given to them by Kaipara and Tamaki Makaurau Maori will be uplifted and removed by those who originally offered them, as a sign of the retraction of confidence in the party because of the position they've taken over the Takutai Moana bill.
Marty Mars blogs on this strange turn of events here.
He quotes:
"A contingent of Kaumatua, Kuia, Pakeke,& Rangatahi from the Kaipara & Tamaki Makaurau will be arriving at Parliament tomorrow between 1-2 with the express purpose of uplifting, retrieving, and returning a 6ft hook (Matau) and anchor (punga) which was gifted to celebrate the Maori Party’s 1st year in parliament, and express support for their mangai MP Hone Harawira. The group has asked that the taonga be placed below the steps of Parliament so that they may ensure the easy return of these taonga."
I hope the television cameras are there to record this event which seems to me striking in its symbolism and a serious turn of fortune for the Maori Party. I'd like to witness that interaction.
Marty Mars blogs on this strange turn of events here.
He quotes:
"A contingent of Kaumatua, Kuia, Pakeke,& Rangatahi from the Kaipara & Tamaki Makaurau will be arriving at Parliament tomorrow between 1-2 with the express purpose of uplifting, retrieving, and returning a 6ft hook (Matau) and anchor (punga) which was gifted to celebrate the Maori Party’s 1st year in parliament, and express support for their mangai MP Hone Harawira. The group has asked that the taonga be placed below the steps of Parliament so that they may ensure the easy return of these taonga."
I hope the television cameras are there to record this event which seems to me striking in its symbolism and a serious turn of fortune for the Maori Party. I'd like to witness that interaction.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Shadbolt gets cold feet
"Invercargill mayor Tim Shadbolt believes Southland and Otago may be run by a single southern council if the current National-led government is re-elected this year."
"If the present Government remains in office we could all become 'super cities'" Mayor Shadbolt said in his 'mayor's comment' segement of the ICC's draft annual plan,
"There will be forced large-scale amalgamations", he opines, summing up what he learned at the latest 'zone6 ' meeting for local body politicians.
Well Tim, if that prospect is causing you concern, it might pay to reflect on your behaviour prior to the last election when you worked vigorously to spoil Labour's chances here in the South. Your comments then doubtless contributed to the situation you as mayor, find yourself in now. Time to dub John Key 'Mugabe' now perhaps?
"If the present Government remains in office we could all become 'super cities'" Mayor Shadbolt said in his 'mayor's comment' segement of the ICC's draft annual plan,
"There will be forced large-scale amalgamations", he opines, summing up what he learned at the latest 'zone6 ' meeting for local body politicians.
Well Tim, if that prospect is causing you concern, it might pay to reflect on your behaviour prior to the last election when you worked vigorously to spoil Labour's chances here in the South. Your comments then doubtless contributed to the situation you as mayor, find yourself in now. Time to dub John Key 'Mugabe' now perhaps?
Ciderliscious!
Our new cider press is a magnificent beast! Just look at her, all poised ready to press - wood oiled, steel work gleaming. This morning's pressing was a complete success, with apple juice streaming into the stainless steel bucket like a waterfall with barely any effort from the operator. Magic, and the juice was the best ever - fresh, invigorating and plentiful. She's sitting outside of the shop in this photo, attracting comment and advertising the harvest festival to boot.
I predict very happy times ahead for all concerned.
I predict very happy times ahead for all concerned.
Calling the Feds!
There are many people in the community who find the tactics used by the Federated Farmers 'blunt' and 'simplistic' to put it politely. 'Bull-at-a-gate' seems to be a common summation of the approach taken by the Feds to many issues.
The comment below was made by a visitor to this blog earlier today and resulted from a post that described the Southern Branch of the Feds calling for a peer review of the science thus far collected re Waituna Lagoon. With the author's kind permission, I've dragged it out into 'front of house' to see if it resonates with other readers. If it does, or if you disagree with Piwakawaka's view, you are very welcome to put in your two cents worth.
The comment below was made by a visitor to this blog earlier today and resulted from a post that described the Southern Branch of the Feds calling for a peer review of the science thus far collected re Waituna Lagoon. With the author's kind permission, I've dragged it out into 'front of house' to see if it resonates with other readers. If it does, or if you disagree with Piwakawaka's view, you are very welcome to put in your two cents worth.
The refusal to accept science, and to challenge it is a tactic long-used by NZ's commercial fishing industry - and this is no different from the Feds.
I have worked alongside the feds for many years through a variety of issues and topics, and the constant vitriol, attacks, lies and aggression have staggered me, and frankly, no longer surprise me. I also have many farmer friends who refuse to join them, because of their dinosaur-like attitudes to the environment. It's no wonder their membership is dropping.
So tell me, how come the Feds, with a mere 20 000 members get so much airplay and 'power', when an outfit like Forest & Bird with 70 000 members has to push hard to even be heard?
I have worked alongside the feds for many years through a variety of issues and topics, and the constant vitriol, attacks, lies and aggression have staggered me, and frankly, no longer surprise me. I also have many farmer friends who refuse to join them, because of their dinosaur-like attitudes to the environment. It's no wonder their membership is dropping.
So tell me, how come the Feds, with a mere 20 000 members get so much airplay and 'power', when an outfit like Forest & Bird with 70 000 members has to push hard to even be heard?
Low tide
The big moon's causing all sorts of anguish around the country, you can put a ring around that, but here in Riverton, it's creating beautiful scenes like this.
The 'islands' are the remains of the old road-rail bridge, long gone, revealed by the very low tide and made mysterious by the fog.
The 'islands' are the remains of the old road-rail bridge, long gone, revealed by the very low tide and made mysterious by the fog.
Jesus on toast
Those amazing manifestations: the Virgin Mary carpet-stain, Christ's image on a slice of burnt bread, really make the news world-wide when they are uncovered by believers and released to the media.
I'm wondering if I should set this one free on the internet - perhaps it'll cause a stampede of devotees, a thousand comments to the post ;-), tears of joy throughout the land.
Anyway, here it is. Please excuse the cross-posting.
I'm wondering if I should set this one free on the internet - perhaps it'll cause a stampede of devotees, a thousand comments to the post ;-), tears of joy throughout the land.
Anyway, here it is. Please excuse the cross-posting.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
La-di-da
The blogosphere's an odd place at times and those who frequent it often odder. Comments too, found throughout the maze of blogs can amaze and puzzle, reflecting their maker's world-views. I stumbled across one tonight, from a commenter who calls himself 'Dutchie Down South'. Dutchie seems not to enjoy the way I describe my views on one of the blogs he reads and had this delightful comment to make:
@Fred,
didn’t you know that RG is the cuckoo under the bloggers?
Like a true cuckoo he keeps his own blog squeaky clean with la di da photos of a dandelion and crocuses but hijacks everybody else their blog.
Feeling a little flattered and quite a bit generous, I'd like to dedicate the photo that accompanies this post to Dutchie Down South.
Cheers Dutchie!
@Fred,
didn’t you know that RG is the cuckoo under the bloggers?
Like a true cuckoo he keeps his own blog squeaky clean with la di da photos of a dandelion and crocuses but hijacks everybody else their blog.
Feeling a little flattered and quite a bit generous, I'd like to dedicate the photo that accompanies this post to Dutchie Down South.
Cheers Dutchie!
Deborah's dilemma
Well, not really. Deborah dealt to my botanical puzzle too easily, so I'm challenging her to 'name the variety' but identifying this hip's made more difficult by the damage done by birds. I didn't know they ate rosehips (but now I do!)
Another botanical puzzle
Guesses as to what these fruits are?
I took this photo while walking through Marshwood Gardens earlier today, on the way to checking our youngest apple trees.
They were fine.
Shagged!
This little guy was lost - standing looking vacant on the side of Highway 99 and at risk of losing his birdy life, so I photographed and rescued him. When I picked him up, he honked softly honk and gave me mites. When I got back in the car, my wife told me I smelt like shag.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Lily
Encouraged by a kindly comment from an unexpected source I've gone all thoughtful and want to share the photograph of which I'm most proud. I've posted it once before, elsewhere on the internet, but it retains its clarity, I think.
It's of a water lily that floated on a small pond in the backyard of an ex-school house that is now the home of a friend.
It's of a water lily that floated on a small pond in the backyard of an ex-school house that is now the home of a friend.
Federated Farmers threatens lagoon's future
Who could have predicted the response from the Federated Farmers to news that the Waituna lagoon was under immediate threat from the effects of farming in the catchment?
Who would have expected the Federation to say, hang on, let's not be hasty, taihoa?
Who could have seen that they'd challenge the science that's saying that the lagoon is on the brink of flipping and requires immediate intervention to save the internationally recognised lagoon from system collapse?
Who in Southland, would have expected to read in today's newspaper that Federated Farmers 'co-spokesperson for water and the Resource Management Act' David Rose wants the science that describes the state of the estuary peer-reviewed.
No-one I imagine, least of all me.
I expected the Feds to be as anxious as the rest of us, to quickly solve the looming issue of the endangered lagoon, swing in behind efforts to make changes to ensure it didn't flip and become a stinking, muddy wasteland. But no, it seems, we should challenge the science instead, delay actions to arrest the decline, procrastinate instead of activate, fiddle while Rome burns.
This is a block-headed, self-serving response from Federated Farmers that endangers a very precious eco-system and the reputation, such as it was, of the Federated Farmers in Southland.
Who would have expected the Federation to say, hang on, let's not be hasty, taihoa?
Who could have seen that they'd challenge the science that's saying that the lagoon is on the brink of flipping and requires immediate intervention to save the internationally recognised lagoon from system collapse?
Who in Southland, would have expected to read in today's newspaper that Federated Farmers 'co-spokesperson for water and the Resource Management Act' David Rose wants the science that describes the state of the estuary peer-reviewed.
No-one I imagine, least of all me.
I expected the Feds to be as anxious as the rest of us, to quickly solve the looming issue of the endangered lagoon, swing in behind efforts to make changes to ensure it didn't flip and become a stinking, muddy wasteland. But no, it seems, we should challenge the science instead, delay actions to arrest the decline, procrastinate instead of activate, fiddle while Rome burns.
This is a block-headed, self-serving response from Federated Farmers that endangers a very precious eco-system and the reputation, such as it was, of the Federated Farmers in Southland.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Regenerate!
They swept into our town like a herd of heifers, all young and frisky and set about teaching us old'uns how to suck eggs and sure enough they knew plenty about it!
The Regeneration Aotearoa crew are young, bright and mobile. They're travelling the country, showing films they've made themselves, meeting local 'changemakers' and getting to know what's happening in the boonies - hence their stop-over in Riverton. We hosted the group at the Environment Centre and here at home, where they wandered through the garden - food-forest, armed with cameras of all sorts, capturing insects, flowers, vistas and goodness knows what else on film. In the evening, they showed three of their films to an audience of locals - 'Without Rain' 'a simple story about a rural community in Nepal, that comes together to confront the challenges of climate change', 'In Your Hands', a journey with Tiki Tane, Warren Maxwell and Sean Donnelly to explore the joys of being a dad', and 'ReGeneration', a short filmic exploration of some of the awesome projects around the country.
It was great, they were fun and we were lucky to have been visited by them.
Tonight, they go onto Te Takutai o te Titi marae ki Oraka for a weekend wananga and have invited my daughter to go with them. Lucky her! (Lucky us!).
The ReGeneration project has a website: www.regeneration.org.nz
The Regeneration Aotearoa crew are young, bright and mobile. They're travelling the country, showing films they've made themselves, meeting local 'changemakers' and getting to know what's happening in the boonies - hence their stop-over in Riverton. We hosted the group at the Environment Centre and here at home, where they wandered through the garden - food-forest, armed with cameras of all sorts, capturing insects, flowers, vistas and goodness knows what else on film. In the evening, they showed three of their films to an audience of locals - 'Without Rain' 'a simple story about a rural community in Nepal, that comes together to confront the challenges of climate change', 'In Your Hands', a journey with Tiki Tane, Warren Maxwell and Sean Donnelly to explore the joys of being a dad', and 'ReGeneration', a short filmic exploration of some of the awesome projects around the country.
It was great, they were fun and we were lucky to have been visited by them.
Tonight, they go onto Te Takutai o te Titi marae ki Oraka for a weekend wananga and have invited my daughter to go with them. Lucky her! (Lucky us!).
The ReGeneration project has a website: www.regeneration.org.nz
Blackadder in Gore
Sonia Gerkin writes in today's Southland Times Arts/Entertainments section:
"For all those wanting a fix of Blackadder humour, and who wouldn't, Gore's Little Theatre is the place to be on Sunday afternoon."
That set me thinking about how I could arrange my timetable so that I could go up, settle into one of the comfy seats of the Little Theatre and have some laughs, but reading on ...
"The Gore Repertory Society will hold auditions ..." and there I stopped. I don't see myself as any of the Blackadder characters (others may disagree), so I'm going to have to wait some time before I get my 'fix'.
Something to look forward to though.
"The show will run from May 11 to 15."
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Seuss (the good doctor)
My shoe is off, my foot is cold.
I have a bird I like to hold.
My hat is old, my teeth are gold.
And now my story is all told.
I have a bird I like to hold.
My hat is old, my teeth are gold.
And now my story is all told.
My fellow councillors!
Look what's being said outside of the chamber!
"Its time the government stopped pussyfooting around on this issue. We have environmental standards, and they should be enforced. Farmers who fail to comply should be fined and prosecuted until they do. Repeated non-compliance should be punished with the review and cancellation of resource consents (a power now available thanks to the government's RMA reforms). Anything less is tolerating serious criminal behaviour."
Read more here.
(Idiot/Savant pulls no punches - this post he calls 'Spinning on dirty dairying - be warned!)
"Its time the government stopped pussyfooting around on this issue. We have environmental standards, and they should be enforced. Farmers who fail to comply should be fined and prosecuted until they do. Repeated non-compliance should be punished with the review and cancellation of resource consents (a power now available thanks to the government's RMA reforms). Anything less is tolerating serious criminal behaviour."
Read more here.
(Idiot/Savant pulls no punches - this post he calls 'Spinning on dirty dairying - be warned!)
For Japan
This tiny white Autumn crocus brings to mind a furled white flag and peacefulness - Japan in my own garden. It also reminds me of snow and the silent threat that it's bringing to the battered islands right now.
The rising sun
Our driftwood artist built a memorial to the victims of the Christchurch earthquake and set it in the estuary where the early morning sun could light up the red and black arms of the art-work and remind us all of how lucky we have been to be on safe ground here in the south.
Then Japan experienced its terrible series of disasters.
Now, the Canterbury figure bears a flag - red circle overlaid with the international nuclear symbol, on a white field, tattered and burned at the fringe.
When the sun comes up later this morning, I'll take a photograph and post it here.
Then Japan experienced its terrible series of disasters.
Now, the Canterbury figure bears a flag - red circle overlaid with the international nuclear symbol, on a white field, tattered and burned at the fringe.
When the sun comes up later this morning, I'll take a photograph and post it here.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Act crazy
Was there ever a more ludicrous figure in New Zealand politics than Hillary Calvert of the Act Party.
Not since David Garrett anyway.
What a sad, sad situation.
Not since David Garrett anyway.
What a sad, sad situation.
Talking crap
Spent the day indoors, hearing about sludges, slurries and foul water.
I suppose it serves me right - I stood for council of my own free will!
I suppose it serves me right - I stood for council of my own free will!
Police slam quake crims
'While-driving' cell-phone usage is soaring in Christchurch since the earthquake. Psychologists say this kind of disregard for rules and laws in situations where major traumatic events have occured is well documented and to be expected.
Police, on the other hand, say they will show zero tolerence for lawless behaviour from Christchurch people, including those who talk on their phones while driving.
Get better work stories!
Police, on the other hand, say they will show zero tolerence for lawless behaviour from Christchurch people, including those who talk on their phones while driving.
Get better work stories!
Nuclear radiation threatens Key's Hawaiian home
This is serious! The Pacific island get-way, under threat from fall-out from Japan's nuclear meltdowns!
What can John do?
Suggestions that Gerry Brownlee be installed in the $5 million 'bach' to serve as 'radiation mass' to absorb the fall-out in the same way that bales of wool absorb spilt oil have been greeted by Key as 'a good idea'. Bill English too, is being considered for the purpose - wood having similar absorptive properties to Brownlee's bulk.
Key said, "While I feel for the people of Japan, I have to prioritise. Charity begins at home and Hawaii is my home away from home, so my ministers will be deployed where they are most needed."
"I expect that once my nuclear crisis is resolved, I'll turn my attention to the Land of No-Ordinary Sun', he quipped.
What can John do?
Suggestions that Gerry Brownlee be installed in the $5 million 'bach' to serve as 'radiation mass' to absorb the fall-out in the same way that bales of wool absorb spilt oil have been greeted by Key as 'a good idea'. Bill English too, is being considered for the purpose - wood having similar absorptive properties to Brownlee's bulk.
Key said, "While I feel for the people of Japan, I have to prioritise. Charity begins at home and Hawaii is my home away from home, so my ministers will be deployed where they are most needed."
"I expect that once my nuclear crisis is resolved, I'll turn my attention to the Land of No-Ordinary Sun', he quipped.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Up in the air
Good fortune saw me up in the air over the Waituna lagoon earlier today, getting a God's-eye view of the splendor of the lagoon, wetland and stream system and a chance to look for signs of deterioration in the shallow waters. Sadly, some were visible. Traces of algae showed from the height we helicoptered at and the extent of the siltation could be plainly seen. The reasons for it were obvious too, as we swept out over the dairy farms that press up against the fences that keep the cows out of the lagoon. Plain as the green velvet on a billiard table, it was to me. Monocultural thinking and wildly unimaginative land use conspired to create a contrast that could hardly be more marked. The misuse of the peatlands that border the wetland and lagoon, the draining and ploughing, sowing of urea-sucking grass and hammering of hooves on soils that should only bear the weight of birds has ruined the balance that once existed here, throwing the system into crisis. It just seemed so infantile - the squared paddocks, the straight-line drains gouged through the peaty soils and into the gravels beneath, the cows crawling over the green sward like lice...I was not moved romantically by this bucolic scene, more moved to despair.
It got worse when we landed, pulled on waders and got into the waters of the Waituna lagoon. Or rather, the stinking muds. Reeking of sulphides, the bed of the lagoon was more mud-mattress and sign of a sickening eco-system. The seagrasses that should be waving to and fro in the warm waters were thinning dramatically and losing the fight for light to the algae.
The scientists on hand to explain the situation made us feel the slimes, dig into the muck with our hands to get a feel for what was going on and it wasn't a good thing.
*more on the lagoon visit tomorrow
It got worse when we landed, pulled on waders and got into the waters of the Waituna lagoon. Or rather, the stinking muds. Reeking of sulphides, the bed of the lagoon was more mud-mattress and sign of a sickening eco-system. The seagrasses that should be waving to and fro in the warm waters were thinning dramatically and losing the fight for light to the algae.
The scientists on hand to explain the situation made us feel the slimes, dig into the muck with our hands to get a feel for what was going on and it wasn't a good thing.
*more on the lagoon visit tomorrow
Mine, mine, all mine!
Solid Energy's angling to buy Pike River Mine and re-start mining there, no doubt encouraged by the National Government's plans to 'partially sell' the S.O.E. that would give them the capital they'd need to start digging out the fateful mine.
Solid Energy and National have their cheerleaders, but fortunately, the renewed call to mine, using the internationally admired and environmentally sensitive 'open cut' method is coming from a couple of clowns - Rodney Hide and Tony Kockshorn.
Doubtless Key (remember the Pierrot suit?) will be in on the act too. I see the three of them in a funny little car with a squeeze-bulb horn 'honk honk' trying to jam chunks of coal into the petrol tank but that wee clown-car's going nowhere!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Thinning
It was a morning for reducing the apple load on the poor over-laden trees, especially the long-suffering Peasegood Nonsuch.
Economic clarity
You won't find any of it here, or in the report from the business page either.
"The economy may just have gone through a double-dip recession, and the Christchurch earthquake will hit businesses again, with growth just 1.3 percent forcast...but next years growth should rebound and top 4 percent!
Hoorah!
But wait, there's more. The article below, covering the Japanese earthquake says,
"Fears the fledgling global economic recovery could be derailed are growing after the giant earthquake and tsunami in Japan ..."
Seems like something you'd pay a gold coin for in a gaudy tent at a fair.
"The economy may just have gone through a double-dip recession, and the Christchurch earthquake will hit businesses again, with growth just 1.3 percent forcast...but next years growth should rebound and top 4 percent!
Hoorah!
But wait, there's more. The article below, covering the Japanese earthquake says,
"Fears the fledgling global economic recovery could be derailed are growing after the giant earthquake and tsunami in Japan ..."
Seems like something you'd pay a gold coin for in a gaudy tent at a fair.
Key grins like loon as Japan suffers.
The sight of New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key hamming it up on a cricket pitch, rubbing shoulders with such luminaries as that model of piety Shane Warne and looking for all the world like the reincarnation of Stan Laurel, seemed quite incongruous in light of the disaster that Japan finds itself central to right now.
Gravitas, Mr Key. And timing. Not on the cat walk and not in a basin.
Gravitas, Mr Key. And timing. Not on the cat walk and not in a basin.
Meltdown
Is it possible to have anything more than a vague idea of what's really happening with the stricken nuclear plants in Japan?
It seems par for the course these days, for official reporting to be so sanitised that you might consider them untrue. I read in today's paper that an American nuclear expert believes that the pumping of seawater into the Fukushima plant was a 'desperate measure' - "It's a Hail Mary pass." he said.
The Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary, on the other hand said the cooling operation at Unit one was going smoothly after the seawater was pumped in.
Both may be correct, but I'm deeply suspicious that spin is being employed furiously.
As an aside, I was puzzled by the response by America, in flying coolant to Japan at the first hint of trouble at the nuclear plants. Coolant? In an aircraft? How could any small amount of coolant help the situation of a potential meltdown?
I read today that boron, which I take to be the substance in question, 'disrupts nuclear chain reactions'.
I hope it disrupts it real good!
It seems par for the course these days, for official reporting to be so sanitised that you might consider them untrue. I read in today's paper that an American nuclear expert believes that the pumping of seawater into the Fukushima plant was a 'desperate measure' - "It's a Hail Mary pass." he said.
The Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary, on the other hand said the cooling operation at Unit one was going smoothly after the seawater was pumped in.
Both may be correct, but I'm deeply suspicious that spin is being employed furiously.
As an aside, I was puzzled by the response by America, in flying coolant to Japan at the first hint of trouble at the nuclear plants. Coolant? In an aircraft? How could any small amount of coolant help the situation of a potential meltdown?
I read today that boron, which I take to be the substance in question, 'disrupts nuclear chain reactions'.
I hope it disrupts it real good!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Who's Howie?
This is he. He's a huhu and a lucky one at that. Howie was resident in a length of firewood, going under the axe wielded by a compassionate fellow who goes by the name of Anonymous Big-Hearted Cobber. It was Howie's great fortune to be discovered, still whole and entirely intact, by ABHC and gently lifted from his soft woody home and relocated to a saucepan, replete with sawdust of the kind Howie fancies, gastronomically. And there Howie reclines, safe and sound with good prospects along the lines of 'becoming a beetle'.
Howie looks enormous in this photo provided by his Saviour, but is in fact a mere 5cm in length.
It makes me happy to hear stories where the quality of mercy applies even to the tiny creatures of the world and this story is one.
On its way!
Autumn that is. There's not much in this photo that says 'Autumn', bar the condition of the grape and actinidia leaves, but it's a shot that couldn't be taken in any other season. If I was living in here (it's our 'garage' though there hasn't been a car in there for years) I'd be clearing those vines away to let the light in.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Calling all commenters
I've had some requests from people who would like to comment here but can't make their way through the required maze. These two images might help. In them I've shown how it is easy to click the Name/Url button, then write in any name you want to be known by. Then, write your message in the white message box. Then copy the odd looking word the system provides to check that you are not spam.
Once you've done that, click 'publish your comment. Easy!
Try it on this post and show how e-capable you are!
Clear as mud!
Tan me Hide when I'm died, Clyde.
Our very own Councilor Jackie Kruger has announced that Rodney Hide's recent speech to local government representatives revealed that he's given up the ghost and accepted that he's history (or words to that effect). She's been rounded-upon for letting that slip though and 'corrected' for her 'misinterpretation' by a fellow councilor from the Invercargill City Council. He didn't say that at all, we read in our own Southland Times, Rodney's hale and hearty!
No he ain't. Cr Kruger is right. Rodney's biltong!
Well spotted Jackie, and thanks for the heads-up!
No he ain't. Cr Kruger is right. Rodney's biltong!
Well spotted Jackie, and thanks for the heads-up!
Unfolding the mystery of the stone
I saw one of these at a fair and just for fun tried to make one. It is roughly based on some pictures of one in a British museum dating back at least 1000 years. I acquired a piece of black Italian granite 100mm thick and cut it into a wheel about 420mm diameter, then drilled a 40mm hole 100mm through the centre with a concrete breaker then set about roughing and shaping it to what you see in the photo. Then drilled the handle hole and ground the feed spirals in the under side of it. I sourced a piece of 30mm bench top granite. This is thin but lighter than original for transport, and cut it to shape drilled a 35mm diametre hole in the middle then shaped the core from the 40mm hole into an axle then ground feed spirals in that too. The feed spirals (my idea) are designed to move the flour towards the outside and grind it at the same time . With a bit of fine tuning of the feed hole around the axle it all seems to work, you need to put the wheat through a few times then sift it out and what is left in the sift is put back into the feed hole. Hope this has been of interest to you .
Yours Terry
Well Terry, it is of enormous interest to me and I suspect, others.
Thanks for providing the photos and description.
Canterbury tribute
Mr of-the-Hill has installed a driftwood piece in red and black in the sands of the estuary - very poignant it is too.
I defy anyone to chop that one down!
(My photo doesn't do it justice - the red is deep and the black, charred. It would be better photographed when the tide is in, but I had to take the opportunity when I could.)
I defy anyone to chop that one down!
(My photo doesn't do it justice - the red is deep and the black, charred. It would be better photographed when the tide is in, but I had to take the opportunity when I could.)
You okay?
We have Japanese friends who have stayed with us in Riverton but are back living in Japan now: Keichi, Kazu, Keiko, Yuso, Yuka, Yokoshima, Yoshi, Wataro, Junko, Kaori, Shizuko.
Hope you are alright.
Hope you are alright.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Old age
From a distance, it was difficult to see what Mr Hill was saying.
Up-close, the old fellow and his crutch became apparent.
Up-close, the old fellow and his crutch became apparent.
Grassroots action
The Waituna lagoon is threatened with destruction due to the effects of development of the surrounding peat-lands over the years. Accusations are flying from all quarters toward the dairy industry, farmers in general and Environment Southland who is charged with managing those developments. To say that the regional council has become galvanised by the situation with the wetland would be an understatement. The Waituna Landcare Group, a force of locals who have worked for years on the various challenges of the fragile area, have a plan and it was presented to the Council on Wednesday. They'd like to trial a new system of drain management. Doesn't sound very sexy Gerry, but it's a graceful proposal in my view. They'd like to alter the constructed drain to give fish shelter and protection from the diggers that clean the drains and they'd like to change the manner in which that cleaning is done, by 'sectioning' the scooping-out regime and leaving un-cleared segments in weed and grass to serve as sediment traps to catch the material stirred up and released by the diggers bucket. This 'fine tuning' looks to me to be exactly the kind of thing that's needed and I commend the Landcare group for their work - in fact I did, as you can read in the Southland Times report from the meeting.
As an aside, I took great pleasure in reading the proposal as it appeared in our Consents Committee document, because of the descriptions and words the group used. I like words, especially those that are evocative and couldn't help but enjoy reading this paragraph:
"We want to explore methods of improving drain structure for fish habitat. We propose digging 'alcoves'' into the sides of drain channels, filling these with two alternative 'snag' structures(fish 'condos' and bog-wood snags)"
I'd like to make some of those myself and install them in my own creek.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Arie Smith
I don't post on crime or the police but the story of Arie Smith interests me a great deal. I worked with a young man with Asperger's syndrome and that's given me some insight into what may have contributed to the fate Arie suffered at the hands of some 'law keepers' during the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake. Arie suffers, we are told, from a compulsion to 'collect' light-fittings. That doesn't sound at all extraordinary to me, in light of the activities of my Asperger's friend. What was odd though, was the extensive bruising that was evident on Arie's head after he was apprehended by persons-as-yet-unnamed during their operations on the streets of quake shattered Christchurch. They were thought to be the New Zealand Police when Arie's state of dishevellment was first noted by the media, but now there is speculation that it may have been our military who inflicted the severe bruising to Arie's head, or perhaps the Australian police who were active in the area.
We shall see.
I can pass no judgement on the case but will be following news of the situation as it comes to light. I'll not post a picture of Arie's injuries, though they are easy enough to find on the newsinternet.
We shall see.
I can pass no judgement on the case but will be following news of the situation as it comes to light. I'll not post a picture of Arie's injuries, though they are easy enough to find on the newsinternet.
Waste not
"As a nation we need to really start thinking about the potential for bioenergy crops as they can be a stimulus for the economic growth that the government is seeking."
Bioenergy Association of NZ Executive Director Brian Cox describes the potentials for the production of bioenergy from various crops that are grown in New Zealand under the title,
"Land and forest owners should look beyond the log"
Mr Cox describes the 'soft' approach to fuels that seems to have far greater potential and integrity than proposals from 'sexy coal' Brownlee and his extraction-fixated National Party 'fans of mining' MPs.
He talks about wood gasifying and the need to grasp the science behind it, then use the process to its best potential. That is, don't waste the opportunity for waste.
The article is worth reading and for those who are looking to develop their own renewable, independent sources of energy, following up on a scale that suits.
Bioenergy Association of NZ Executive Director Brian Cox describes the potentials for the production of bioenergy from various crops that are grown in New Zealand under the title,
"Land and forest owners should look beyond the log"
Mr Cox describes the 'soft' approach to fuels that seems to have far greater potential and integrity than proposals from 'sexy coal' Brownlee and his extraction-fixated National Party 'fans of mining' MPs.
He talks about wood gasifying and the need to grasp the science behind it, then use the process to its best potential. That is, don't waste the opportunity for waste.
The article is worth reading and for those who are looking to develop their own renewable, independent sources of energy, following up on a scale that suits.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Hone in the House
Yes I did very much enjoy the harsh words from Hone Harawira in the House today, decrying the Takutai Moana 2nd reading.
Hone said he was glad that he's not a member of the Maori Party caucus.
Over and over, Hone described 'this racist piece of legislation'.
I'm glad I caught it.
Now the Maori Party is going to catch it.
Shane Jones is calling this reading the poroporoaki for the Maori Party. Goodbye, he bids Tariana. Defacating, he says, that's what they are doing. Crikey!
Treachery. Hiding under the cloak of Ruaumoko, the earthquake, sneaking it in. Now he's thrashing Peter Dunne, ties him to the Coastal Coalition. Says he'll be gone at the coming election. Tau Henare yowled and bellowed from the other side of the House but Jones kept up the unrelenting criticism of the Bill. Calls Dunne a jellyfish. Why not? He's right!
Tau Henare gets his chance ... but he's a pill. Talks about Hone Harawira's 'five or six friends'. Like Dunne, rabbits on about Winston Peters. Says Boscawen has been 'lying through his teeth'. Maybe there's some good in him after all.
62 to 56, the 'ayes' have it.
Eric Roy shuffles in.
I'm off.
Oh wait, Charles Cheval congratulates Simon Power and wishes him well in his retirement. Very gracious. Says the House will be diminished.
Hone said he was glad that he's not a member of the Maori Party caucus.
Over and over, Hone described 'this racist piece of legislation'.
I'm glad I caught it.
Now the Maori Party is going to catch it.
Shane Jones is calling this reading the poroporoaki for the Maori Party. Goodbye, he bids Tariana. Defacating, he says, that's what they are doing. Crikey!
Treachery. Hiding under the cloak of Ruaumoko, the earthquake, sneaking it in. Now he's thrashing Peter Dunne, ties him to the Coastal Coalition. Says he'll be gone at the coming election. Tau Henare yowled and bellowed from the other side of the House but Jones kept up the unrelenting criticism of the Bill. Calls Dunne a jellyfish. Why not? He's right!
Tau Henare gets his chance ... but he's a pill. Talks about Hone Harawira's 'five or six friends'. Like Dunne, rabbits on about Winston Peters. Says Boscawen has been 'lying through his teeth'. Maybe there's some good in him after all.
62 to 56, the 'ayes' have it.
Eric Roy shuffles in.
I'm off.
Oh wait, Charles Cheval congratulates Simon Power and wishes him well in his retirement. Very gracious. Says the House will be diminished.
Marbles in a tin can
What's it like around the table in the chamber?
Lots of spectacles, of the bi-focal kind! Hair, where there is any, is grey. Ish.
No-one has carved their names on the tables and I can't see a single cigarette burn in the wood. It's not an Arthurian round table, but a horseshoe - lucky I guess and perfect for making decisions on the hoof :-)
The carpet's been chosen for its colour, I'm guessing. Being red, it'd keep its counsel if and when there was blood on the floor. I understand there has been some but the present council has acted in a very civilized manner.
The ear-less walls boast art-works and maps - a watched clock and carefully draped flag - New Zealand's but in the style of Old Glory in an American courtroom. Amusingly, there's an 'exit' sign on the door-less rear wall. Beside it is an arrow pointing to the opposite wall which sports a door suitable for exiting.
There's some natural light, filtered through white net curtains. Those opposite where I sit are high and narrow, like the slots through which medieval archers let fly their arrows, only horizontal. I watch for passing birds, clouds and other signs of the real world.
Sounds are muted, by the carpet and the bodies of plump bureaucrats (joke!).
The acoustics are good however and our mumblings can be heard. There's a microphone for softly-spoken applicants and other guests.
Fans in the ceiling (I ask mine to wait outside). Sprinklers too, which I hope will never be activated.
That's about it. Bar the pit, about which I am not free to speak.
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