New Zealand
11.Nov.09
The first time I came to New Zealand, 20 odd years ago, I landed in Auckland and at the airport was greeted by a Maori welcome. The people who had arranged the honour didn't tell me it was going to happen. They shoved me through a door with the warning 'Whatever happens next, don't move'. What happened was a Maori bloke about the size of a large wardrobe advancing towards me in warrior mode, as part of an ancient ritual, ending in a welcome of friendship.
This time we were invited to the Mayor's parlour for a cup of tea. The Mayor, John Banks, is up for re-election next year. I had seen one or two posters around town about the election featuring the headline: ' One Auckland for All'. I congratulated him in what I thought might be the winning campaign. 'That's not my poster. That's the Opposition's' he said. Still, sell out audience, good reviews.
Martin Crowe came to the show. He is one of New Zealand's greatest batsmen, a cricketer of real style and class. He is also a cousin of Russell Crowe. They were brought up together and Martin sits on the board of Souths, Russell's Sydney rugby league club. We agree that one of Russell's best films is 'Cinderella Man' the story of James Braddock, the American boxer.
Next stop, Wellington. A short flight, straight up and down to a beautiful city, fringed by mountains. Lovely Art Deco and Victorian buildings around the harbour and in the hills above old wooden framed houses looking like they'd been designed for a Disney movie.
To Christchurch, over the Southern Alps, the Lord of the Rings landscape. A neat, precise city. Cold with a central square dominated by a statue of Queen Victoria. Made me homesick. Stayed at The George, a boutique hotel and a very good one. Fine food, caring, smiley service. Lovely old theatre built in 1902, now restored and cared for by a Trust. A gem. Great audience, standing ovation. A crowd at the stage door. Made me feel like Michael Buble