a reply to:
lostgirl
I'm an Aussie, but have been resident in New Zealand for more than a decade.
As for alternative and conspiracy stuff here, there are many grass roots people who are wholly entrenched in it, but I am fairly skeptical in
approach, so I can't really offer that much.
I have been closely associated to government here, and have seen some entrenched corruption, but it is mostly boring stuff like a candidate defacing
their opponents signage, or being too liberal with their entertainment budget.
NZ has a small population and, despite big tie-in to the "five eyes" networks, is more like a small town or single state's government, rather than a
big federated alliance with deep hidden cadres.
Generally, it's a safe place to travel and has lots of 'tourist traps'. It's a group of volcanic Pacific Islands and so has scenery and a lot of
geologic interest. Most of the population are fairly friendly and are aware of the necessity of our tourist industry. The Maori culture here puts up a
fierce exterior (it is part of their warrior background), but they are great and friendly people when you really get to know them.
You have to attend a Hangi at a traditional Marae while you are here. Basically, it is a traditional feast, with the food slow-cooked in cooking pits
under the ground. A Marae is like a community center for the Maori, it is part fort, part tribal governing place, part religious, and part cultural
get-together place. Also, there are strong protocols as to how people are to interact while at a Marae, but you can usually intuit things, and they
will explain things if you don't get it at first.
Also, be aware that there has been recent heavy rains, earthquakes, and storms which has caused road damage and washouts in some areas, so its a good
idea to look out for signage and stick to speed limits.
edit on 5/6/2023 by chr0naut because: (no reason given)