Apparently that's not too bad for Auckland. Pity for us was that it was right in the middle of re-roofing one of the twin houses. Nothing that the workmen couldn't handle though, especially seeing as though Chris went and bought them all beers - what a nice guy.
Today was orientation at AUT and the journos were spoiled by an official Maori welcome, called a "Powhiri." It involved us walking towards the hut "Whare" (Wh is pronounced like an F) while a lady sang a welcome song and then we removed our shoes to go inside for a ceremony. The men had to sit in the front row as we had to protect the women, of course. Then the Maori representatives welcomed us and after each speech there was a traditional song. Even we had to sing at some stage!
Of note was the Hongi - we lined up and met the
university staff with a traditional touching of noses. (this is an internet photo - not me) The approaching women have the option of going for the cheek kiss and I must say quite a few of our group wussed out and went for the kiss, instead of the awkward and somewhat risky nose-and-forehead-touch. The literal meaning of Hongi is "sharing of breath".
All in all a very novel way to begin Uni life again - quite different from my memories of standing in a line at the Sydney Uni Arts faculty for 3 hours a decade ago. The course looks like it will be intense but heaps of fun - look out for my name in the NZ Herald before long!
Here's my room with a view - mum tells me it's important for a mother to know where her son is sleeping and living, so here u go mum. Biggest room in the house and a nice view from the desk.
Below is the view from the window. Auckland Uni hall of residence in the way unfortunately. That's Rangitoto Island either side of the building, which partly blocks an otherwise perfect view of Auckland Harbour. OK, on a clear day it looks better.
Fellow residents that have just moved in are Jamie from Paraparaumu, north of Wellington, and Daniel from Wonganui. Jamie is studying construction at Massey Uni and Daniel is doing Engineering at Auckland Uni. Very nice guys - asking me how things work here, but I'm not exactly an expert having been here only a week! I'm in great company and start classes on Monday, at the beginning of the second sixth of the year. Time seems to fly quicker when you're closer to the international dateline!
