KIWI Ingenuity

December 6, 2012

It never ceases to amaze me the inventiveness and ‘can do’ attitude of New Zealand people. There is very little a Kiwi can’t build or fix with a bit of heavy gauge wire and some cloth tape.

The passion for exploring and enjoying this beautiful country has led to some world recognised inventions such as William Hamilton’s jet (jet boat) and the first successful snow landing in a plane by Harry Wigley in 1955. Lest we forget commercial bungy jumping courtesy of AJ Hackett and the crazy Zorb ball inverted by the Akers brothers.
Other people who have left an indelible mark on the world are Sir Edmond Hilary for his remarkable mountaineering achievements and Nobel Prize winner, Ernest Rutherford who was the first to split the atom back in 1919! The list goes on.

In the seven years that I have lived in New Zealand I have had much first-hand experience of the can do attitude that has propelled these remarkable people forward. Although I have not tried to re-invent the wheel, I have taken on many ambitious projects that have been greeted with only enthusiasm and positive/constructive criticism.
The setup of our office in New Zealand has not been an exception. I am overwhelmed with the support and ideas that have flowed nonstop from friends, family and new contacts and clients.

For this I give you my heartfelt thanks.

Dirk van Walt