In Unison#11, The Rugby World Cup Issue by USU Students' Association at Unitec

ISSUE #11

YOUR MAG. YOUR VOICE.

usu Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Association at Unitec

USU PRESENTS:

INTERNATIONAL

FOOD DAY

& STUDENT EXCHANGE

Thursday 6 October

10am - 2pm

i n t h e H u b (bldg 180) Want to travel? Visit the se li ta n ta d n a g n lo a e m Co Student Exchange stall e th h it w s d O r to find out how you can your tastebu variety of food on offer complete part of your d n u ro a ll from countries a degree overseas while paying Unitec fees! the world usu Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Association at Unitec

WWW.USU.CO.NZ

MONDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2011

PARTY CENTRA L GUIDE

RWC CAM PAIGN THEN VS . NOW

QUIZ: WHICH ALL BLACK ARE YOU?

: MEET YOUR LINE UP E STUDENT EXECUTIV

EDITORIAL 5 PETE’S TIRADE 7 NEWS 8 FOR THE LOVE OF BALLS 22 STUDENT PROFILE 23 STUDENT INTERVIEW: TE PUNA AKO 24 FOOD FOR THOUGHT 25 MUSICAL NOTES: PIETER T 26 SECOND TIME AROUND 27 SHORT STORY: PART 3 28 DEAR BARBIE 28 WHAT’S ON 30 CAPTION COMPETITION 31

EDITORIAL INQUIRES ph. (09) 815 4321

ext 7927 inunison@unitec.ac.nz

EDITOR: Ashley Smith GRAPHIC DESIGN: Mark Lovatt

ADVERTISING INQUIRES ph. (09) 815

SUB EDITOR: Nathan Calis

4321 ext 7384 usuadvertising@unitec. ac.nz

COVER MODEL: Craig Larnder

COVER PHOTO: Sanji Karu

Disclaimer Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Submissions and contributors are welcome, but the publisher reserves the right to select and edit the material submitted. Materials submitted will remain property of the publisher unless alternative arrangements are made.

CONTRIBUTORS: Nathan Calis, Pete Hodkinson, Claudia Innes, Dayna Carter, Sedo Afenya, Claire Edwards, Britany Dyke, Jenaya Johnston, Bruce Lightfoot, Eseniya L, Melody Greene, Kristine Aitchison

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IN UNISON

EDITORIAL

I’LL BE THE FIRST TO ADMIT IT, BEING AMERICAN, I AM TOTALLY RUGBY IGNORANT. Let’s face it, the USA team

doesn’t hold a candle to the World Cup, they just show up for good looks and party potential. One would assume that part of the cultural immersion into New Zealand includes a complete break down of the game of Rugby. I personally wish that someone at the Customs border HAD stopped me for five minutes and briefed me on the basics. Either way, all of the recent Rugby thrill has definitely sparked something inside of me. I’ve discovered the beauty of thirty jacked brawny men running around in tight jerseys and…ermm…achieving epic athletic heights and “scoring mean tries!” Honestly though, hasn’t the buzz around Auckland grabbed everyone by the heart and turned us all into crazed All Blacks fanatics? A “bandwagon fan” is defined as “anyone who claims they are a "fan" of a particular sports team, even though they had no prior support for/interest in the team until that team started winning. These types of fans only show playoff interest, have probably never watched a regular season game, don't own any type of team merchandise, nor would they buy any” (Thanks Urban Dictionary). This is exactly the type of All Blacks fan I am. To be quite honest, I’m a bandwagon rugby fan…but come on, where would we be without our bandwagon fans? There’s certainly something to be said for the tried and true; the ones who still have the 1987 Rugby World Cup jerseys hanging above their beds, but the bandwagon fans are who make everything so exciting! We may not have an archive of Rugby statistics stored in our knowledge vault,

LETTERS

TO THE EDITOR

“WE MAY NOT HAVE AN ARCHIVE OF RUGBY STATISTICS STORED IN OUR KNOWLEDGE VAULT, BUT WE SURE AS HECK KNOW HOW TO YELL AND CHEER WHEN OUR PRECIOUS ALL BLACKS SCORE A TRY! WITH ALL OF THE DIE HARD FANS PACKING THE RUGBY STADIUMS, WHO WOULD KEEP THE STREETS AND BARS BUZZING? THAT’S RIGHT—BANDWAGON FANS” but we sure as heck know how to yell and cheer when our precious All Blacks score a try! With all of the die hard fans packing the Rugby stadiums, who would keep the streets and bars buzzing? That’s right—bandwagon fans. I am proud to be a bandwagon All Blacks fan! Hell, it beats cheering for the Wallabies doesn’t it? This issue is chalk full of Rugby fun! Whether you’re down to party, or brush up on some of your Rugby facts, we’ve got it all! This is an exciting time for New Zealand, so soak up the thrill!! GO ALL BLACKS!! In celebration of the All Blacks and Rugby World Cup we’ve “Blacked Out” the entire issue! This is just another way of displaying our undying love for the boys in black! To join in on the Black Out hype, come dressed in all black to the USU BBQ this Wednesday in the HUB. There will be face painting, games, photo walls, and competitions! See you there! Ashley Smith 2011 Editor

Letters should be 250 words or less. You MUST include your real name, phone number and address so we don’t get sued (we won’t print them if you don’t want us to). We won’t spell-check it, but we might edit, abridge, or decline it without explanation.Send letters to: inunison@unitec.ac.nz or, USU Students’ Association, Builing 180, 139 Carrington Road Auckland

IN UNISON

EXECUTIVE

THE TIME IS UPON US! Traffic is becoming devious in Mt Eden, excitement is mounting everywhere and the sale of small furry kiwi key-rings is going through the roof as the Rugby World Cup begins to kick our tourism industry and our sense of national pride into gear. Flags are sticking out of car windows left right and centre and flash mobs are performing the Haka all over Auckland in brilliant form. Everyone from Grandma to new-born is out in black to support our boys, whether they’re not old enough to understand, too old to remember their own name, or anything in between There’s no doubt that we’re gunning for the top. So, as you meander from game to bar to home to game to class to bar to bed, try and book some time in for the books and keep yourself match-fit, a world cup victory isn’t quite the same if you fail your courses at the same time. Just the same, go hard people! Let’s make this a world cup that we can be proud to remember and say, “I was there”. Now, rugby aside, what’s been going on?

internal and external community transport as well as parking. What are your thoughts? Would you be willing to pay for use of the shuttle? Did you have any idea that Unitec is the only institution which provides it for free? If you want more of it, are you willing to pay? Do you think you should have to? What are your biggest issues when it comes to transport and parking? Talk to your Student Reps. or flick us an email.

TRANSPORT: We have a bus service being put under increasing amounts of pressure with numbers being increased beyond capacity every year since its introduction. We have substantial parking at Mt Albert but is it enough? Parking remains pretty limited out in Waitakere but what can be done? And pubic transport? Well it remains relatively bollocks everywhere. Unitec are going to be entering into a transport review soon which will cover

MICROWAVES: On a lighter note, friends at Waitakere, we got word that you don’t have access to enough microwaves to heat up your lunch. No worries, we had the job passed on and there should be a couple more heading your way soon. Enjoy ;-)

SECURITY: Keeping you all safe is priority number one, and recently there have been a couple of concerning security issues (students being attacked in public near campus or robbed of belongings) and I just need to stress how important it is that if anything like this happens to you, make sure you inform Unitec Security so the team knows what’s happening at all times. Not in a “big brother is watching” sense, just in a “man I’m glad I’m not in danger” sense. Contact email: security@unitec.ac.nz.

See ya round, Pete.

MAD PROPS: To the boys in Black, 23,000 students are behind you, Kia Kaha! ALL ABOARD THE FAIL-BOAT:“What do you call 15 guys sitting around a TV set watching the World Cup Final?” …”The Wallabies”. FAIL !

Shaun Overton General Executive Member Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Natasha Donaldson General Executive Member Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Seyed Ali Derhamy General Executive Member Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Chantelle Francis General Executive Member Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Karan Jatakia International Representative Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Johnny “Hoani’”Hettig Maori Representative Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Umar Ayub Postgraduate Representative Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usu@unitec.ac.nz

Marcelle Rayner Waitakere Representative Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: marcelle.unitec@gmail.com

Jenine Kendale Finance Officer Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 8600 Email: usufinanceofficer@unitec.ac.nz

Shannon Pennefather Vice President Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 7929 Email: usuvp@unitec.ac.nz

Pete Hodkinson Student President Phone: (09) 815 4321 ext 7929 Email: usupresident@unitec.ac.nz

S N O I T C E L E STUDENT

N E P O

MBER E T P E S 6 2 M O N D AY

S E T O V O H W E V E RY O N E DRAW TO WIN AN

! 2 D i PA

THE WILL GO IN

BS! P FOR GRA U S E IZ R P AV E S P O T WE ALSO H

FOR INFORMATION ON HOW TO ELECT REPRESENTATIVES FOR STUDENT EXECUTIVE 2012 CHECK YOUR EMAIL OR VISIT THE USU WEBSITE

VOTING CLOSES TUESDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2011

usu Students’Association at Unitec

WWW.USU.CO.NZ

IN UNISON

NEWS Dunne Continues Loan Repayment Crackdown By Nathan Calis REVENUE MINISTER PETER DUNNE

Auckland Goes Wild for Wi-Fi By Ashley Smith

THE AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL has teamed up with Tomizone hotspot in order to create a major metropolis wireless network. This new Wi-Fi internet initiative kicked off at the beginning of September, just in time for Rugby World Cup. The mission is to allow tourists and residents the opportunity for free or cheap internet access around town and while commuting to and from work. The Council has set up agreements with the Link Bus system and a few train routes to provide free wireless internet to it’s public transportation users. In doing so, the Council hopes to encourage public transportation commuting by allowing workers to make more efficient time out of their daily commute. “Being able to access the internet via this new Wi-Fi service means our customers and our visitors to the city can make more

effective use of their commute time,” says Mark Lambert, Auckland Transport’s Public Transport Operations Manager Along with the free Wi-Fi zones, the Council and Tomizone have arranged for cheaper, discounted internet zones that expand from Britomart to parts of Parnell Mt. Eden and Ponsonby. Certain “tourism and RWC informational sites” are accessible for free in order to provide easy quick tourism information to visitors in Auckland. “Auckland Transport will evaluate the success of the Wi-Fi service prior to making it more widely available across the public transport network,” says Lambert. The expansion of the Wi-Fi network is being assessed over the next six weeks. Decisions about permanent internet access around Auckland will be made following the World Cup.

has continued his crackdown on New Zealand’s growing student loan debt problem, tabling new legislation in parliament earlier this month. The new legislation will make it mandatory for borrowers to provide a New Zealand-based contact person when applying for repayment holidays. “When Inland Revenue has a contact person for a borrower – probably in most cases a close relative – there can be a useful reminder from home that this debt is still there and needs to be met, and there are some pretty clear ramifications if you do not,” Mr. Dunne said. On top of this, the new legislation cuts the repayment holiday period from three years to just one year. According to Mr. Dunne, the current three-year repayment holiday is overly generous; a reflection of a generous student loan system when compared to international standards. “By years two and three of their travels it is reasonable to assume people are earning income somewhere around the world, so it is equally reasonable to expect that they can resume their loan obligations,” Mr. Dunne said. The other major feature of the bill is the removal of the borrower’s ability to offset losses against a their net income in order to reduce repayment obligation. These latest legislation changes come on the back of the Student Loan Scheme Amendment Bill that was passed through parliament in August, as part of a strategy to tidy up the whole loan repayment process. “Essentially, we are cleaning up the whole area around defaulting on student loans and addressing the overall size of student loan debt,” Mr. Dunne said.

USU AND UNITEC

BLACK

OUT monday 19th september

“

in unison’s rugby world Cup issue drops

wednesday 21st september

“

Come show your rugby pride by dressing in all blaCk (or your countries colours) for the usu & uniteC blaCk out party!

there will be free sausages and faCe painting. Come along and snap a photo in front of the blaCk out wall to be in to win your very own all blaCks jersey in our faCebook photo Competition!

Saturday 24th september 7:30pm

“

watCh nZ vs franCe at Carrington’s.

rwC Carrington’s speCial piZZa + a beer for only $10

www.usu.co.nz/whats-on

usu Students’Association at Unitec

IN UNISON

FEATURE

THE QUEEN’S WHARF BY THE VIADUCT IS THE OFFICIAL “FAN ZONE” FOR 2011 RUGBY WORLD CUP. All of the excitement and events in the past week have caused quite a stir around Auckland. It’s hard to sort out what is happening where, and which is your best fit for Rugby festivities. So whether you’re keen to get involved in some downtown fun, or discover a low key alternative to enjoy the Rugby, In Unison has got you covered.

The Festival Fanzone Sites If your main priority is to be in among the Rugby World Cup Fanzone extravaganzas, then you will enjoy the number of fan sites Auckland has arranged .

QUEEN’S WHARF

IN BEING THE OFFICIAL SITE FOR RUGBY FANS, the Queen’s Wharf has got a lot to offer. There are four separate venues within the Queen’s Wharf madness. The Cloud has been the talk of the town, as it recently opened just in time for World Cup. It can fit nearly six thousand people for large events and covers 3,400 square meters of ground floor. The cloud will host some of “The best of New Zealand” festivals in the next month including Taste of New Zealand. The Cloud is also the hub for RWC concerts and performances. Shed 10 down on the wharf has undergone a major makeover to provide more entertainment in the Party Central area. If you like live music then Shed 10 is your place to party. There are live cover bands playing each night of the tournament. Each Friday and Saturday, there will be live music directly after the matches. Also—if you missed an important match, Shed 10 plays daily match replays from 12:30-2:30 PM!! The Forecourt is a great place for families to go enjoy the Rugby excitement! The Forecourt has a carnival feel each weekend which makes for a great place to bring the kids along as you watch some Rugby. The Forecourt is also the home to the Giant Rugby Ball, a domed venue that allows visitors a full audiovisual experience of the Kiwi culture and experience. The Rugby Ball has been travelling the world for the past 3 years gaining some exposure for New Zealand. After visiting Tokyo, Paris, London and many other major cities, the Rugby Ball is now back in Auckland where it belongs!

NORTHERN LIGHTS

NO NEED TO BATTLE THE NIGHTMARE TRAFFIC SCENE OVER THE HARBOUR BRIDGE, there’s plenty of Rugby excitement to be had on the North Shore. Northern Lights is the home of the North Shore RWC festival fanzone, and is located at Albany Lakes, near the North Harbour stadium. There are two massive screens that live stream the rugby matches for your viewing pleasure. The venue can accommodate up to ten thousand people at a time! There is a serious party scene within the venue that features DJs, live music performances, and interactive gaming zones. Northern Lights is also perfectly accommodating if you are looking to bring the family along for the match. The venue has been separated into two areas, one licensed (for the party scene) and one that is totally family friendly. This area has it’s own big screen to watch the match so you don’t have to chare with the rowdy partiers. This venue will be opened on the following days: 8,9,15,16,21 & 23 of October

IN UNISON FEATURE

OUTRAGEOUSLY WEST HENDERSON’S TRUST STADIUM ARENA HAS SET UP A FULL PROGRAMME OF ENTERTAINMENT FOR WEST AUCKLAND. From the quarter finals and on Trust Stadium will be open to the public for free to come and watch the Rugby match together. Similar to the Northern Lights scene, Outrageously West has arranged for a family friendly section of the party scene. Each night of RWC madness, Trust Stadium has arranged for a live band performance to kick off the excitement before the live match. Some of the performances include Anika Moa and Stan Walker. The Black Seeds will be performing at 5 pm on the World Cup final night! So plan accordingly!! This venue will be opened on the following days: 8, 9,15,16,21 & 23 of October

SOUTHERN SEAS SOUTHERN SEAS IS ANOTHER GREAT OPTION FOR RUGBY MATCH NIGHTS. Located at Mangere Town centre, the venue can accommodate thousands. Southern Seas will feature a bit more of a Polynesian/Maori flair in its Rugby celebration. The Rugby World Cup fanzone home to South Auckland will feature a lot more community celebration. Flava FM is holding the “Southern Seas Rising Stars” competition which will select a top band and top dance group to perform and compete for a large cash prize on the night of RWC finals. Elimination competitions will be held on the nights of the quarter finals and semi finals matches. Entries for the competitions close 30 September so enter now!! This venue will be opened on the following days: 8, 9,15,16,21 & 23 of October

MAYBE THE CROWDS AND MADNESS AREN’T YOUR SCENE. There are plenty of bars around Auckland that are serving up a great menu and place to watch the match in peace. If your priority is to surround yourself with fans, but on a much smaller scale than Britomart is a great neighbourhood to grab a drink and enjoy the Rugby. Heaps of bars in the area offer big screen match action. If you want to stick around the fan zone area without being in the thick of it, here are some great options: BREW ON QUAY This Bar has 3 HDTVs and 2 big screens to watch the matches. They also offer hiring private rooms for groups of 20. This would be a great place to get mates together for a small private Rugby party. TYLER STREET GARAGE The Tyler Street Garage is located on Quay Street, and offers a rooftop terrace option for watching matches. There is an outdoor fireplace, large outdoor screen, and retractable roof! This rooftop venue is also available for hire. KEEPING IT LOW KEY If a low key local is more your scene, here are some fantastic options in outer suburb bars. They all offer Rugby match coverage and (cheaper) drinks than inside the Fanzone pandemonium! THE BOG IRISH BAR (PARNELL) has live music lined up for post-match celebrations most Friday and Saturday nights. MAC’S BREW BAR (TAKAPUNA) is a relaxed atmosphere for those in the North Shore to enjoy the match on big screens. THE KINGSLANDER (KINGSLAND) is located right next to Eden Park. So although you might not be in amongst the sweat on blood on the field, this is as close as you’re gong to get! CARDRONA SPEIGHTS ALE HOUSE (MT. EDEN) is a foolproof local to enjoy the Rugby. With all of your Speights favourites on tap, and tasty food on the menu, how can you not feel at home?

IN UNISON

FEATURE A NICE COLD BEER WHICH PUMP UP SONG REALLY GETS YOU EXCITED?

“EYE OF THE TIGER”

A MATCH IS BEST WATCHED AT… HOME WITH LOTS OF RUGBY DAY HOME COOKIN’!

A PUB WITH LOTS OF MATES AND BEERS

THE COMEDY CLUB

A MATE IS STUCK IN AN EMBARRASSING STICKY SITUATION. NATURALLY, YOU…

QUICKLY JUMP IN AS THE RELIABLE WINGMAN THAT SUAVELY SAVES THE DAY

ARE YOU A TOTAL MAN’S MAN, ALWAYS THE PROBLEM SOLVER AND QUICK ON HIS FEET LIKE A REGULAR RICHIE MCCAW? OR MAYBE YOU’RE MORE OF THE PARTY BOY TYPE LIKE SONNYBILL WILLIAMS! THEN AGAIN, THAT FAMILY MAN SIDE OF YOU COULD BRING OUT YOUR PIRI WEEPU TENDENCIES…FIND OUT WHICH ALL BLACK YOU ARE MOST LIKE IN OUR IN UNISON ALL BLACKS QUIZ!!!

RICHIE MCCAW

GIVE HIM SHIT FOR THE NEXT WEEK’S TIME, AND DON’T LET HIM LIVE IT DOWN! HAHA!

MA'A NONU

IN UNISON FEATURE K OF CHOICE? WHAT’S YOUR DRIN

WHISKEY AND COKE

BOXERS OR BRIEFS?

“I LIKE TO MOVE IT MOVE IT” BRIEFS

BOXERS

YOU COULD BE DESCRIBED AS…

A NIGHT OUT ON THE TOWN MIGHT END AT…

“THE PARTY MAN”

“THE CHILLED OUT AND FUN FRIEND”

YOU JUST WON A DREAM VACATION OF YOUR CHOICE. WITHIN THE WEEK YOU COULD BE FOUND IN…

THE STRIP CLUB

ACAPULCO, SOAKING UP THE RAYS BY DAY AND CLUBBING IT BY NIGHT

DISNEY WORLD WITH THE FAMILY FOR A WEEK!!

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION ON TATTOOS?

THE MORE THE MERRIER

SONNY BILL WILLIAMS

NAH, I ROCK THE “SO FRESH AND SO CLEAN” LOOK

DANIEL CARTER

PIRI WEEPU

IN UNISON

FEATURE

THE 2007 RUGBY WORLD CUP (RWC) IS ONE MOST KIWIS WOULD PROBABLY LIKE TO FORGET. THE HEART-BREAKING LOSS TO THE FRENCH IN CARDIFF HIGHLIGHTED YET ANOTHER WORLD CUP FAILURE FOR THE ALL BLACKS. NATHAN CALIS NOW REFLECTS ON THAT FAILED CAMPAIGN, AND COMPARES IT TO THE CURRENT CRUSADE TOWARDS HOLDING THE WEB ELLIS CUP.

IN UNISON FEATURE

TRI-NATIONS For those of you who are superstitious, you may be buoyed by the fact that the team holding the Tri-Nations trophy has never gone on to win the world cup in the same year. In fact, since the TriNations tournament began back in the 1996, New Zealand has won it in World Cup year all three times, and as well all know, they haven’t been able to win the big one. However, after the recent loss to Australia, that hoodoo now lies with them…hopefully.

SQUAD CHANGES The 2011 RWC squad features just ten of the same players that played in France in 2007. Doug Howlett, Jerry Collins,

and Carl Hayman are just a few of the many All Blacks who have since left to play rugby overseas. Others have missed selection, such as Brendon Leonard, or simply retired, such as Keith Robinson. It is debatable whether our current All Black team is better than the one that competed in France. Where we did have a scarce supply of centres in 2007, we now have plenty of options in the form of Williams, Kahui, and Toeava. On the other hand, in France we had a good supply of first-fives such as Carter, Evans, and McAllister. This year, besides Carter the alternatives have been limited to the extent that Tony Brown’s name was floated at one point. One thing is for certain—the makeup of the team is completely different.

COACHES For the first time ever, the All Blacks coach will be coaching in his second world cup. In the past, All Blacks coaches have resigned or been axed because of failed

winners—South Africa—came from the ‘pool of death’, featuring England, Samoa, and Tonga? This time around does not appear to be too different. Evidently we do have a hard game against France, and a typically bruising encounter with Tonga. However, Japan and Canada will be mere speed bumps for the All Blacks. Once again the South Africans appear to be in the hardest pool, with tough games against Wales, Samoa, and Fiji, as well as an easy game against Namibia.

RULE CHANGES Since the last RWC, there have been a whole lot of changes to rugby union’s rules. In 2008-9 the IRB trialed the Experimental Law Variations program, better known as the ELVs. Several of these were eventually ditched, though many remain for the upcoming world cup. The ability to take quick lineouts, the five meter scrum offside line, and new corner post regulations are just some of the rules

HENRY, HOWEVER, IS DIFFERENT. “NOGRAHAM DOUBT WE ALL REMEMBER THE AFTERMATH OF THE 2007 RWC WHEN THERE WAS DIVIDE WITHIN THE COUNTRY OVER WHO SHOULD TAKE THE COACHING JOB — BACK WHEN YOU WERE EITHER TEAM HENRY OR TEAM ROBBIE, BEFORE ALL THIS EDWARD AND JACOB NONSENSE.

World Cup campaigns. Just think about the likes of John Mitchell, Laurie Mains, and John Hart. Graham Henry, however, is different. No doubt we all remember the aftermath of the 2007 RWC when there was divide within the country over who should take the coaching job—back when you were either team Henry or team Robbie, before all this Edward and Jacob nonsense.

POOL One thing that the All Blacks struggled with in the 2007 RWC was being in a weak pool. Although they were guaranteed to top their pool, with games against rugby minnows Italy, Portugal, Romania, and Scotland, the easy run didn’t do them any favours when they finally came up against a worthy opponent—France. Was it coincidence that the eventual

“

REST AND ROTATION One of the biggest hoo-has in the aftermath of the All Black’s dismal 2007 RWC campaign was the coaches’ use of rest and rotation policies. The ploys were used by Graham Henry to develop depth within the team, whilst keeping players fresh for the big knockout matches later in the tournament. The theories behind Henry’s policies were plausible, to the extent that Henry initially denied that they had been a failure. However, whilst player rotation succeeded in creating greater player depth, the negative repercussions of rest and rotation were obvious. Henry never appeared to figure out what his ‘best 15’ was. Even if he had, they wouldn’t have had enough game time together to establish effective combinations. Furthermore, several of the players complained about not getting enough rugby leading into the tournament and were therefore rusty. These failed policies took most of the blame for the early exit from the cup. In the All Black’s 2011 RWC campaign, the words rest and rotation have been understandably taboo. Henry has appeared to have ditched the idea of rotating his players, but has continued to rest individuals on occassion. Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, and Owen Franks are among those who had limited game time during the Tri-Nations due to said rest periods. Henry’s decision to rest these players was justified, however, given the extra travel burdens faced by the Crusaders earlier in the year. What is most important is that the majority of the ‘best 15’ picks itself—something that could not have been said four years ago.

that were not in play at the last world cup. This is of particular relevance to the All Blacks as it promotes the open running rugby that they are notorious for—the type of rugby that isn’t considered to be World Cup winning rugby.

LOCATION Obviously the biggest advantage that the All Blacks will benefit from in contrast to 2007 RWC is their home ground advantage. The only time New Zealand has ever won the Web Ellis Cup was in New Zealand back in 1987. Since then, the Cup has been contested in Australia, South Africa, and throughout Europe. However, with the whole rugby-crazy nation behind them, hopefully the results will be different.

IN UNISON

FEATURE

TE STUDEN

LECTIO

STUDENT EL

ECTIONS

Y O T U E R E M STUDENT ELECTIONS

STUDENT ELECTIONS

LINE UP: STUDENT

EXECUTIVE

STUDENT EXECUTIVE ELECTIONS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER! You’ve surely noticed all of the campaigning around campus over the past two weeks, but here is your chance to hear what each candidate has to say. Read the following blurbs carefully to help you to select the most suitable candidate for each position. Note that a few candidates are running for more than one position! HERE’S A BREAKDOWN OF HOW ELECTIONS WILL WORK: When you vote online, you will be given the option of voting for one candidate in each of the positions (except for General Executive, in which case you may vote for up to four candidates). Along with the candidates, you also have the option of selecting ‘No confidence’ or ‘No vote’. If you select ‘No confidence’, you are indicating that you do not think any of the candidates should be elected to the position. ‘No confidence’ is treated like a separate candidate, and if it gains the most number of votes for a position it will force a re-election for that particular position. Similarly, if ‘No confidence’ is one of the top four candidates in the General Executive race, then only the

candidates (if any) who poll higher will be elected. If you feel that you do not know enough about any of the candidates, but do not want to specifically vote against them, you can select ‘No vote’. All this means is that you do not want your vote to count in the particular position. Unlike ‘No confidence’, if ‘No vote’ has a higher number of votes than any candidate, it will not prevent him or her from winning the election, nor will it force a re-election. *The following blurbs were directly submitted to In Unison for Executive campaigns. They have been printed in their originally submitted format and have remained unchanged by the editorial staff:

IN UNISON FEATURE

SHANNON

PENNEFATHER

PRESIDENT "

CANDIDATES

SHAUN OVERTON

IVAN MANDIP SHARMA R: RU NN IN G FO

PRESIDENT RUNNING FOR:

PRESIDENT KIA ORA UNITEC! For those who don't

know me I am the USU vise President. For the last year I have worked along side the President to represent you on many important student issues. The biggest changes I have helped make on your behalf are: -Making the student rep system better -Making the clubs grant system easier -Making scholarships at Unitec easier The relationships I have built with students and staff, the experience I have gained in bringing real change for students and my understanding of student needs make me more than ready to step into the Presidents shoes at the end of the year. So, what ill I do for you? The USU is going through a period of major change because of law changes. My promise to you is that I will keep the USU student focused and not compromise our values in this new environment. I will work hard to gain more student study/common areas including parent friendly study areas. Most of all I will listen and respond to your needs. With your support and with the help of my Vice President-Marcelle Rayner- we can make a positive change at Unitec. Thanks for your vote

GENERAL EXECUTIVE

FOR THOSE THAT DON’T KNOW ME,

my name’s Shaun and I’m running for USU President. Last year, I had a simple campaign – the students said they wanted onions at our free barbeques. I listened to that feedback, and I delivered on it. I’m not going to spin you guys a whole bunch of generic campaign lines that are used time and time again. What I am going to do is be realistic, innovative, creative and If elected I’ll get the job done. This year, I have risen above the limitations of my position to get the student voice heard at all levels offered to me. I’m an active member on several Unitec committees, adding my 2 cents on the student’s behalf. As President, I want to make real world changes that you want us to. Making student life better at Unitec is what I want to do, and I want you along for the ride. =D Keep an eye out for me and my cocandidates during the campaign weeks. Please feel free to come and talk to me. I’m really interested in what you all have to say, and look forward to meeting you throughout the coming weeks.

RUN NING FOR:

PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT GENERAL EXECUTIVE MY NAME IS IVAN MANDIP SHARMA. I was born in Auckland, Henderson. I am 20 years of age. I am currently studying electrical engineering level 4 and I am also a class representative for C.A.T electrical level 3 and 4. The position I have applied for is president, vice president, and general executive. I enjoy working with people of all cultures and beliefs. I am passionate about working at Unitec and dealing with students’ needs and implement changes where necessary. If elected in one of these positions I will work hard towards to see that Unitec has a bright future. At the moment my agenda is to provide Halal, vegan, vegetarian sausages for the free BBQS (food for everyone) and make all student car parks around Unitec free.

IN UNISON FEATURE

ENTS IDDID VICE PRESCAN ATE WILL EDSER

MARCELLE RAYNER

FINANCE OFFICER CANDIDATE

CHANTELLE FRANCIS

RUNN ING FOR:

RUN NIN G FOR:

VICE PRESIDENT WAITAKERE REPRESENT

ATIVE

GENERAL EXECUTIVE

VICE PRESIDENT FINANCE OFFICER GENERAL EXECUTIVE WHAT’S HAPPENING UNITEC?

KIA ORA

For those who don’t know me, I am the Waitakere rep. For the last couple of months I have represented the students at Waitakere campus on the USU executive. I feel that in the last few months I have really addressed some campus issues regarding safety and security on campus and the creation of a better environment for our students to learn. I have represented our students on the campus committee and developed strategies with them to make the campus a more family friendly environment. Whilst I am new to the position, I feel that I have hit the ground running so to speak and picked up the role quickly, as well as being more available to my fellow students to address any problems they may have and will continue to do so. I feel that as a result of the experience I have gained so far this year, I am confident and ready to take on the role of Vice President working with my fellow candidate Shannon Pennefather as President to ensure that students have a positive experience and have more say in how they study. Thanks for your vote

My names Will; I’m running for V-Prez. To be blunt, things need to change a bit. North End, Albany & Waitakere student engagement with the USU is minimal... if not even existent, despite Pennefathers promises last year (maybe because of the lack of events, BBQ’s, student representation or even an office?). Village residents are still unhappy with their leaky homes, south end students still hate the 180 student central (which misplaces all your paperwork)... the list goes on. During my time at Unitec, I have been a student of three separate academic departments (Sport, Nursing, and Foundation Studies) and a Unitec employee of another two… I have also participated in casual employment with the USU (as well as voluntary), so I have a great rapport with Unitec & USU staff, and know how things work and what has to be done to get the ball rolling. On a usual day you might see Shaun & I out and about, like on the BBQ’s, around building 1 engaging students or at tertiary challenge managing the event (Unitec won the shield btw). Vote for myself & Overton if you want a reliable, honest and hardworking exec..

RUN NIN G FOR:

FINANCE OFFICER GENERAL EXECUTIVE

MY NAME IS CHANTELLE FRANCIS

and I am running for the Finance officer for the USU, as I am currently studying accounting. We all as students want to come to Unitec and have a happy learning environment. Just a little about my past at Unitec and my involvement with the USU.I have been a student representative for the business school and really did enjoy dealing with some of the issues that some of the students may have faced in our lectures. I am currently the student program representative for the NZ Diploma in Business and general executive for the USU. I find it every interesting and enjoy representation for students. I now know a lot of our rules at Unitec and try to bring up as many issues that students may face, both current and in the future, and take it to the representative meetings. I would just like to have the opportunity to learn more about the union and Unitec, and get more involved with students.

MOHIT VYAS

IN UNISON COLUMNS

INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE CANDIDATES MARINA BECK

MAORI

REPRESENTATIVE CANDIDATE

RUNNING FOR:

INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE GENERAL EXECUTIVE NO BLURB SUBMITTED

BHARAT ODEDRA

JESSICA-ANN HOLES

RUNNING FOR:

INTERNATIONAL REPRESENTATIVE

RU NN ING FO R:

INTERNATIONAL RE

PRESENTATIVE

RUN NIN G FOR:

MAORI REPRESENTATIVE

KIA ORA,

Ko Jessica-Ann Holes toku ingoa No Nga Puhi me Ngai te Rangi nga iwi. Hey everyone my name is Jessica-Ann Holes, Im currently in my first year of Business Management studies. I wish to be the maori representative for USU because I believe that I have alot of experience to bring this role, and also have a voice for maori in the USU forum. In addition to develop and form relationships with other students not of Maori decent. My wish is that within this role I am able to help ALL students succeed in their particular path of study and beyond. When one succeeds we all succeed.

HELLO EVERYONE, My name is Bharat odedra and I come from India. I am studying civil engineering and this is my first year at Unitec and in this beautiful country New Zealand! I am willing to serve you all as the International representative. Being one, I completely understand the problems and difficulties that come in the way of all international students, which directly or indirectly throw a huge impact on the sole purpose we all are here for i.e Academics! As your voice I would try to serve you to the best of my capabilities and would help you to solve your issues, like my own. I wish you all the best for your decison. Thank you, have a great year ahead. " Many thanks

NEW TO NEW ZEALAND? Studying in New Zealand? Or native to New Zealand? I am Marina Beck, from Black Forest, Germany, here to represent all International Students of Unitec (current estimation of around 2,500!!!). Trouble with Visas, Immigration or Health insurance? Confused about “foreign” policies? Looking to broaden your cultural horizons and meet new people? Whether, an international or domestic student, if you can answer yes to at least one of my questions, then I am here for you. Since my kick off at Unitec over 1 ½ years ago, (studying Bachelor of Communications) I have personally experienced just about every policy, process and paperwork. Representing you in 2012, I will share my knowledge, give advice and listen to any of your student issues. It can be hard communicating with another culture, even though we speak the same language, it is very important to me as International Rep, to break down these barriers and help create new cultural relationships. I will ask questions. I will increase our communication. I will provide you with a student voice. Beck for the Better! Vote for Marina Beck.

IN UNISON FEATURE

KERE WAITAREPRESENTATIVE

GENER

CANDIDATES MIRA EL HADDAD

BENJAMIN CONDER

KAT DIMES

RU NN ING FO R: RU NN ING FO R:

ESEN WAITAKERE REPR

WAITAKERE REPRES

TATIVE

I AM A YEAR ONE STUDENT IN THE BACHELOR OF NURSING PROGRAMME

based at Waitakere Campus. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Unitec so far and feel that a position on the USU student exec team would be a good opportunity to give a little back. Some of the things I will be addressing are the need for more lockers, further improving safety on our wonderful campus and making it a friendlier environment. I would like to increase the USU presence with more events, including family friendly ones. I am keen to help the Waitakere campus and Unitec as a whole offer the absolute best opportunities in learning and student services. With many changes happening around Unitec at the moment I am hoping that I will be able to be a part of this. I offer a new and fresh perspective to the USU team. I am approachable, willing to listen, friendly and open to just having a chat. Vote for Benjamin Conder if you want a great advocate for Waitakere Campus and Unitec as a whole.” Hope you have a great day. Regards

ENTATIVE RUNNING FOR:

GENERAL EXECUTIVE

INSPIRED BY THE PEOPLE WHO BROUGHT YOU MUSTARD AND ONIONS ON YOUR SAUSAGES, its my pleasure to

introduce to you.... Mira!!!!! (loud roar from crowd)... As seen above, I am Mira.... & I’m going to get your vote in less than 200 words! The dream to be part of USU all started when I was but a young child.... Justice and fairness (and a crap load of free stuff) for all was just part of the dream. Living the dream life as a poor uni student has enlightened me to the pain and suffering of my fellow students... the issues and deprevation that we all at times have had to face (noodles for EVERY meal, BORROWING toilet paper from uni.... sound familiar?). I want, nay, NEED to be your voice! Your pain is my pain, but mostly yours.... Let me be your shining star amongst the dark clouds that impinge on your study, let me be the voice in your head... oh wait sorry... I want the best and so should you, vote Mira for Waitakere Rep. See, woman of my word, under 200 words. PS: I put the Mira in Miracle..... enough said.

GENERAL EXECUTIVE

HEY GUYS!

My name is Kat and I’m one of the two girls studying Engineering Level 4 starting this semester. I’m a Student Rep for my programme and running for the position of General Executive on the USU Student Executive for 2012. I’m a small town girl who has come to the big little city to make a difference and to attempt to change the world one small step at a time. I’ve had the awesome opportunity of being involved on a Student Executive board before and absolutely loved it. It inspired me to do everything I could to make sure we get everything we came here for! I’m hard core; I don’t stop until a solution is found and everyone is happy with the outcome. I enjoy being a student voice and representing my class, department, faculty and the entire student body. I believe in getting the most out of my student experience and making every moment count - if you're too slow you miss out! “If someone or something is worth fighting for, you’ll fight with your entire heart”.

RAL

EXECUTIVE CANDIDATES RYAN ALDRICH

IN UNISON COLUMNS

o n e c n e d confi NO CONFIDENCE

RUN NIN G FOR:

GENERAL EXECUTIVE

HELLO I’M RYAN ALDRICH. I want to be one of the USU general executives to make student life at Unitec fair, enjoyable and manageable. A time we will reflect back on as important and irreplaceable. Moving into my fourth year of studying Landscape Architecture at Unitec and by living on campus I understand the desires, needs and views of Unitec students. Students need • Better Copy and Print Services. Prices are too high! Another copy centre at the north end of campus. • Improved Food and Drink Outlets on campus. There should be a greater range and healthier options! • Student Job Search is a service that is poor. Better facilities need to be offered on campus. Students want a service that finds relevant jobs and work experience. • Unity throughout Unitec. Students require better Communication Between the Campuses. All campuses should have at least the same services and facilities found at Mt Albert. There needs to be more events at the north end of campus. • Students want more Common Space all over campus! This is particularly desired for at the North end of campus and at Waitakere. Vote Ryan Aldrich for USU general executive!

HI UNITEC!!! I’M NO CONFIDENCE AND I STAND FOR NO INTEREST. I don’t mean

No Interest on your personal loan and hire purchase items, LOL – no, I mean I have absolutely No interest in you, your welfare, or your stupid problems that have No consequences whatsoever for me or my own political ambitions. Lecturers hassling you? Pfft, whatever. Can’t pay for food? Don’t have time for you, sorry – I have to be home for when my pool cleaner arrives, and make sure he doesn’t dump the leaves on my rose garden like he does EVERY SINGLE TIME. What a jerk. Mo’ money mo’ problems, etc. etc.. Anyway, if you vote for me, I promise to turn this campus into the soulless, bleak environment you deserve. L@@k to the future. If it looks as bland and uninspiring as I think it should be, then I’m your guy. Vote for nothing. Vote for a non-existent student body. Vote for meh.

IN UNISON

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For The Love

Of Balls

FORWARDS: PROPS John Afoa – Afoa maintains his place in the All Blacks off the back of a great campaign with the Blues. He is unlikely to get much game time, acting as a backup to the other props. Ben Franks – Despite playing second fiddle to the in-form Wyatt Crockett in the Crusader’s pack, the All Blacks clearly still see Ben Franks as the better prop. Owen Franks – Coming off an excellent season with the Crusaders, there were no doubts the stoic prop would make the team. Tony Woodcock – Has been one of several All Blacks who have had long injury lay-offs. Woodcock is back up to full health, but questions remain over his form and match fitness. HOOKERS Corey Flynn – Flynn has been in and out of the national team since 2003, only playing 14 games since his debut eight years ago. Despite being ravaged in the social media circles after a poor performance in the Super 15 final, the hooker makes the cut. Andrew Hore – Hore retains his place in the All Blacks in spite of the troubles he has had both on and off the field at the Hurricanes. Keven Mealamu – Veteran hooker Kev Mealamu had a sensational season leading the blues and reasserted himself as the best hooker in New Zealand rugby. LOCKS Samuel Whitelock – With Boric returning from injury after the Tri-Nations, someone had to go. Fortunately for Whitelock, it was Hoeata. Ali Williams – The comeback is nearly complete for Williams after being out of the All Black scene since 2008 due to injuries. Williams’ performances just keep getting better, and he’s been to two World Cups already, so has a lot of experience. Anthony Boric – Returning from a foot injury, Boric hasn’t had much game time. However, he has proved to be a brilliant lock over the past few seasons. Brad Thorn – Recently compared to Chuck Norris. Enough said. LOOSE FORWARDS Kieran Read – As stand-in captain for the best part of the Crusader’s campaign, Read showed he has what it takes to captain the All Blacks once McCaw moves on. But will he recover from his injury in time to warrant selection? Adam Thomson – Thomson was arguably the best scavenger of the loose forwards in the Super 15. Couple that with his brilliant running game and you have justification for his selection. Jerome Kaino – The hardworking blindside flanker was a dead set certainty to make the squad. Richie McCaw – Captain courageous. Victor Vito – Vito took the last loose forward spot that Messam held during the recent Tri Nations. Evidently some good performances for a struggling Wellington earned him a promotion.

WITH NATHAN CALIS BACKS: HALFBACKS Jimmy Cowan – Jimmy will be battling with Piri Weepu and Andy Ellis for game time this year with Alby Mathewson missing out on selection. Piri Weepu – He has lost his Willie Apiata beard, and the tire from around his waist, so retakes his spot. Andy Ellis – The halfback selections were always going to be an interesting with Ellis taking Alby Mathewson’s spot off the back of some good form with the Crusaders. I still think he’s flakey. FIRST FIVE-EIGHTHS Daniel Carter – The best number 10 in the world. Colin Slade – A strong ITM Cup from Aaron Cruden couldn’t see him change the selectors mind about Dan Carter’s backup. Clearly Slade is their man. MIDFIELDERS Sonny Bill Williams – The offloading superstar has All Blacks written all over him and was destructive in the midfield with Robbie Fruean for the Crusaders. Conrad Smith – The reliable Hurricane is virtually an automatic selection if he is fit. Ma’a Nonu – Had a terrible season with the Hurricanes, but Henry has dubbed him the best number 12 in the world. Richard Kahui – Kahui’s strength and speed make him a genuine game breaker, however current concerns over his hamstring highlight his fragility OUTSIDE BACKS Isaia Toeava – The Blues’ superstar has finally matured into a real class player. Despite being injured for the latter half of the Super 15, the All Blacks’ selectors know he has the ability to change a game. Mils Muliaina – He’s been there twice before, and as England showed in 2003, experience is priceless when it comes to World Cups. Zac Guilford – Guilford provided the biggest talking point of the selection by taking Hosea Gear’s spot in the team. The Selectors prefer Guilford’s work rate. However, he was terrible in the loss to the Wallabies and will need to redeem himself. Cory Jane – Jane forced himself back into the All Blacks after missing out on selection for the Tri Nations. His ability to play fullback gives him the edge over Gear. Israel Dagg – Another player who will be coming into the Tri-Nations without much game time due to injury. However, he was brilliant against the Boks in South Africa.

IN UNISON

STUDENT PROFILE

G TILL GROWIN S D N A G E MAKIN EARS IN TH Y 1 2 I: L A JAVEED

Student JAVEED IS A 21 YEAR OLD ENTREPRENEUR, UNITEC STUDENT, PART TIME WORKER, RUGBY REFEREE, PREMIER RESERVE CRICKETER AND YOUTH GRADE COACH.

Javeed Ali has grown up on the same property in Blockhouse Bay for the duration of his life. Javeed attended Blockhouse Bay Primary, Blockhouse Bay Intermediate and Lynfield College. During younger years, in 2004 Javeed was part of a championship winning Rugby Team at Suburbs Rugby Football Club. That year he also achieved most improved player for the Under 15 team.With his playing career over, Javeed took it upon himself to help coach his younger brother’s rugby team at Suburbs RFC, for which he won supporter of the year for his commitment towards the team and its players. During his high school years at Lynfield College he achieved Islamic Sportsman of the Year in 2007. Also in 2007 whilst still coaching at Suburbs Rugby Football club Javeed took up refereeing. In 2010 he refereed his first final which was Under 13 Open. Waking up in the early hours of Saturday mornings did not put Javeed off refereeing and he has now progressed to referee senior games, most recently U85kgs and U19. In 2009 he began Best Promotions, in which he created the brand Cyclona Sportswear fuelled by his love of sport. Best Promotions focuses on supplying corporate uniforms and promo items for giveaways and promotions. He has supplied many local small businesses with corporate uniforms. Javeed built up Cyclona Sportswear himself and runs the business from the property he was brought up on. While running his business, Javeed also juggles a job, since completing Year 13 at Lynfield College. In the 2009/10 cricket season Javeed joined Birkenhead City Cricket Club playing in the Senior C grade, despite the long commute the club provided him with support of his business. In the 2010/11 season Javeed got the call up to fill in for the Birkenhead City Cricket Club Premier Reserves, as the season progressed he cemented his position in the starting XI. Since the 2010/11 season Javeed has also been the coach of the U18 Premier team who finished second in the Auckland Cricket Association competition.

“

BY DAYNA CARTER

“

Profile

Javeed came into the sportswear industry with very little experience apart from the retail knowledge he gained at his job. He has taught himself all the necessary skills required to make the business both effective and efficient in such a competitive industry dominated by long standing companies. The skills he has learnt enable him to be the sales and marketing manager, graphic designer and admin clerk. Throughout the past two years Javeed has been building up his business through his associations with local sports clubs and teams, namely Suburbs Rugby Football Club, and Lynfield College. In addition, Javeed has supplied sportswear to numerous clubs and sports affiliated associations. In July 2011, he completed the 'Coach a Cricket Team Course' run by Auckland Cricket. He will build on this by taking the Level 1 course before the 2011/12 season begins. At the beginning of August 2011 Javeed added studying, a Bachelor of Sport at Unitec, to his long list of responsibilities. Over the years Javeed Ali has become a well-respected rugby referee, an excellent striving cricket player and a proactive businessman. He continues to develop his business whilst juggling all his commitments to the sports he loves and is passionate about.

IN UNISON

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Student Interviews

WITH SEDO & CLAIRE

SEDO AND CLAIRE ARE TWO STUDENTS AT UNITEC WHO HAVE RECENTLY USED THE TE PUNA AKO LEARNING CENTRE AS A HELPFUL RESOURCE ON CAMPUS. The

Learning Centre is located in Bldg. 180 in Mt. Albert, Bldg. 510 in Waitakere and room 1034 in Albany. Sedo studies Civil Engineering and Claire is a Post-graduate student studying for her Masters in Educational Leadership and Management. Here are their stories: SEDO AFENYA

CLAIRE EDWARDS

What do you study at Unitec? I study foundation studies. I have a background in Civil Engineering without all of the academic requirements. I was accepted into the Civil engineering programme and found out that mathematically, I was pretty far behind.

What made you turn to Te Puna Ako Learning Centre when you were seeking some academic help? I was at a point in my essay writing where I knew I could use some assistance. Someone suggested that I go and see the Learning Centre for some help.

How did you hear about the Learning Centre? After my interview at the engineering department, I let them know that I wasn’t comfortable with maths, and I knew I would need a lot of help. They suggested a paper, and I was still in over my head. I took a test through the foundation studies department to test my math levels, and that’s when another student who had had the same sort of hiccup mentioned the learning centre and recommended someone named Lance to help me with my specific difficulty.

What academic issue did you approach the Learning Centre with? The step up in academic writing that’s required for a Masters from a post-grad is a big step up. I had had a year out in between, so I hadn’t been doing any academic writing for a year. It’s hard to get your head around serious academic writing after a year off. I went to the Learning Centre because it’s quite a daunting higher level of writing.

What issue did you approach the Learning Centre with, and how did they help you with that issue? I go there for just about every math question. At the moment, it’s all algebra, by next semester, it will be all calculus. Do you go to see someone in particular? I go to see Lance. He seems to understand the way that I think and the way that I learn. Whenever I go in with a question, he has me write it up on the board, so he can figure out what type of “learner” I am. Now, I put the problems up on the board, and we stand on either side, and work on the problem together until it’s solved. How would you describe your overall experience with Te Puna Ako? They are really nice people and they don’t make you feel dumb. A lot of students don’t want to speak up and admit that they’re having academic trouble. They’ve got coffee and biscuits which is cool. The entire experience overall was really nice and helpful.

What steps did they take in helping you? I met with Katherine about once a week or fortnight. I would take my completed writing with me and sometimes we would have a professional discussion to order the logic of what I’d like to write about, and sometimes we’d look at the essay from a grammatical or logical perspective. It’s nice to have someone who reads it and looks at it from the perspective of academic writing. Often when you’re doing your masters, you don’t have people to talk to apart from your supervisor, so it’s nice to have someone else to give you a second opinion. How would you describe your overall experience at Te Puna Ako? Very positive. And they’re all so welcoming. They’re very accommodating in terms of ringing up and making an appointment. Everyone is really lovely. They always offer you a cup of tea or coffee when you What advice would you give to another student having academic difficulty? To ring up the Learning Centre and give them a try. It’s not a critique on you, it’s a critique on your work. It’s always a big step to bring your work to someone else, but they are there to help.

IN UNISON

COLUMN

Food For Thought

A LOT OF US HAVE MORE THAN JUST THE USUAL WORKLOAD OF UNIVERSITY ON OUR MINDS, and when the due date for assignments creep closer, it’s time to focus your mind. But is there a way to knuckle down, stay focused and turn your brain into a whiz machine you never knew you had? Of course there is, it can be found in the food you eat! DID YOU KNOW??? Although a standard energy drink is delicious and great for power boosting, but they aren’t as superior as they seem! If you drink a V or a Red bull for added mind power, you most definitely will feel a boost of energy, but the boost only lasts a little while. The come down of an energy drink will actually make you more tired than you were before! Plus, consider the amount of sugar in those things! There are far better ways to receive your energy, send it straight to your brain and keep it there. Here is a list made up of what to eat to keep you pushing right through to those A+’s 1. TOMATOES – The lycopene found in tomatoes protect the cells which play a part in the development of Alzheimer’s therefore, insuring your cells are healthy and alert! 2 BERRIES BERRIES BERRIES – Berries help slow your decline of learning! So they keep your brain extremely observant! 3. WHOLEGRAIN FOOD – This is good for your blood flow, so when you’re studying your blood is flowing freely to the brain making sure it is working at it’s best!. 4. PUMPKIN SEEDS – These are must haves for enhancing memory and thinking skills. 5. WATER – There is nothing better than a perfectly hydrated brain! 6. BREAKFAST – Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and helps with short term memory and a good attention for detail. 7. FISH – Fish is essential for brain function! It helps develop your brain and also enhances memory with aging. 8. COFFEE BEANS – Did you know coffee consumption has been shown to reduce the risk of mental decline and diseases such as Alzheimer’s? ...Don’t forget it!

WITH BRITANY DYKE Add some of these delectable goodies to your supermarket trolley next week and let your brain turn into the master of knowledge and memory – it really is magic! Then treat yourself to some home brain food baking with this scrumptious health loaf! HEALTH LOAF 1/2 cup plain baking flour 1/2 cup baking bran 1/2 cup wholemeal flour 1/2 cup chopped dates 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 egg 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 cup golden syrup, warmed 1 tablespoon melted butter 1/4 cup milk 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 cup hot water Sift flour into a bowl. Add bran, wholemeal flour, dates, walnuts and salt. In a separate bowl beat egg and sugar together. Add syrup, butter and milk. Mix into dry ingredients. Dissolve baking soda in hot water and add. Mix well. Pour into a greased 18 cm loaf tin. Bake at 190°C for 45 minutes or until loaf springs back when lightly touched. Leave in tin for 10 minutes before turning out onto a cooling rack. – Bliss!

IN UNISON COLUMNS

Short Story

Ishma the Wonder - Part 3 So he drives to his mother’s house. “Do you think it’s best she’s not here” Larry asks “I’m not sure how she would react to me bringing you along, I mean being a dog psychic and all” “I’m not sure Larry, it is up to you, I am only here to give guidance and to speak for your pet” “Ok” Larry decided he doesn’t care about what mother thinks. It’s important to solve this issue otherwise Ishma won’t let him sleep. They jump out of the car and Ishma is right on her way to the house. The house is open. Larry makes his way in following Ishma. Ishma is on her way into the house without even so much as to care about Larry or Michelle anymore. She finds a door on top of the stairs and start thumping on it. “What is it” Larry wonders and tried the door. He looks through the keyhole and sees her. His heart beats fast. How can this be? He thinks to himself. Could she really be such a monster? My own mother? Larry tries the door “Grandma, I’ll get you out of here just wait”! Larry runs back down the stairs, Michelle is nowhere to be seen. “Stop!” She yells “I know Im your mother but I will shoot you, you wont stop me!” She yells at him. It’s Lorraine, she is standing at the bottom of the stairs to the side where he didn’t see her, pointing a harpoon arrow at him. “I can’t believe you!” Larry yells, and as he steps another step she shoots him in the chest. Larry is pinned down with blood now flowing fast from the wound and the pain almost instantaneously thumping with his pulse. It’s excruciating. His brain is going a thousand miles an hour. Ishma gave out a series of doggy cries as she ran down and out, quickly past Lorraine and out the door. “You didn’t think I could did you? But I needed that money, she will never die on her own, she’s like a weed, she needs to be weeded out, and Im going to do it, I should have done it sooner. I’m tired of taking care of her. I am tired of her and her judgment on me and her stupidity. Don’t you see she’s senile she should not live now!” Larry could not believe his own mother who has cared for Grandma Bella for the past 7 years. But through the pain he could hardly concentrate on her words as he gripped the area around the steel, clenching his teeth and unsure of how long he will survive at this rate and what she would do next. He should have seen this coming. Small sings but significant signs. And what happened of her late husband. He was now unsure of the real deal behind the events. She has been on several drugs for various reasons, sleep and others, and she loved the lavish lifestyle. She did not have friends as such, only few lovers who had

By Eseniya L.

come and gone. She must have been a lonely woman. But living in this house provided her with everything she needed, it was secluded enough so the privacy was good. A person, a stranger walks in and sees Larry. He has followed Ishma inside. He gasp with Horror and runs up to him. “Get help” Larry mutters through his pain. The stranger calls emergency. Lorraine is gone. Several police cars as well as ambulance arrive at 12 Woodville Ave not long afterwards. Funny enough, the police officer who has given Larry the fine, was called to this duty as he was nearby. Michelle was found in the wardrobe of her mother’s closet. Larry still cannot understand how his mother on her own could have dragged her into there as Michelle must have been much heavier than her. It was all right, she woke a few hours later in a hospital, being drugged asleep. Apparently Lorraine came up behind her and grabbed her from the back with a handkerchief of the stuff put to her nose and Michelle does not remember anything after that. Grandmother Bella is doing well, she is recovering. After all, her nutrition was very poor although she thinks ‘she doesn’t need to do counseling at her age’ after such a traumatizing experience. Larry woke up the next day at the hospital, suffering from blood loss and tissue damage in the wound, although Larry did well with getting well again. As for Lorraine, Lorraine. The poor woman needed psychiatric treatment. Who could ask of her for more. She lived a good life and was still reasonably young, she was 48 and could still do well although it is unclear as to when she will be out again. She can’t stop talking about the dog and how that screwed her whole plan. The caretakers cannot understand her, she talks of “Ishma who brought the stranger to the house”, “She showed him the way”, “She ruined my life cause now I am here, she is just a dog, no really, she is a real dog, not a person.” Caretakers say she talks in riddles. Such is the ability of the precious cocker spaniel who played dead on the road to capture the stranger’s attention for help. How she knew about grandmother Bella is another story. Truth is, we are able to communicate with animals, and they with us. If only we so much as to love them so much and give them enough attention, we might just hear what they are trying to tell us .

Dear Barbie Barbie Dear Barbie, Spring is definitely here…something I’ve been looking forward to AND dreading all winter. You see, I’ve indulged in some winter comforts just a little TOO much over the bitter months. I’m absolutely dreading stepping into my summer wardrobe. I can’t stand the site of my exposed arms and legs. AGH!!! What do I do? Jen Dear Jen, I’ll tell you what you do: you start walking to class!! Enough of this shuttle bus bullshit, the Mt. Albert campus is NOT THAT BIG! (And if you’re writing from Waitakere or Albany—try walking to and from class five times before settling at a desktop) I’m sure the couple extra kilometres of walking each day will do that cellulite some good. Get movin’ sista!! XX Barbie

Dear Barbie, I recently started dating a guy that doesn’t really like to have sex. This might sound like the worst thing ever, but it’s wonderful, as I don’t like sex that much either! Do we really need “happy endings” to live happily ever after? Proudly Prude Dear Proudly Prude, Wow, you’d fit in well to the doll world! Can we switch bodies? It’s not fair that the girl blessed with perfectly functionable orifices is wasting them away! Now, your “new man” is sounding a little bit suspicious… If I were you, I’d stalk his @$$ to make sure he’s not finding his “happy ending” elsewhere! XX Barbie

Student

exellence

AwArd

STUDENT

2011

REPS representing students at the

‘grassroots level’.

elect your nominate and 2012 student rep for monday 26th september -tuesday 4th october 2011

ts right leadership star ! here, right now for more information contact the student rep. co-ordinator

USU iS giving away an “EXCELLEnCE” award of $300 wEStfiELd voUChErS to a hard working student who has overcome significant odds or achieved excellence recently in their studies. nominatE yoUr friEnd or fELLow StUdEnt simply post a blurb and photo on the usu excellence award fb event before friday 14th october!!

U StUdEntS SimpLy SEarCh US fB. aSSoCiation on

on usueducation@unitec.ac.nz or 8154321 ext 7380

usu Students’Association at Unitec

Your new LINK around town

IN UNISON

COLUMN

The easy way to get around the City

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“ONLY TWO THINGS KEPT ME OUT OF THE ALL BLACK SQUAD. LACK OF TALENT, AND TRAINING.” We all had our chance at rugby fame and fortune. Some peaked in high school, scoring tries in big games, between one rival high school or another. I peaked much earlier. In primary school to be exact. Well, I was in primary school, and played for a local club, as all boys did in the 1960’s in the Waikato. There were only two sports to play, rugby for the boys and netball for the girls. Still, we got our exercise. I was a stocky lad, so was put in the forwards, prop or lock. I preferred prop, since your ears didn’t get rubbed off as they did as a lock. And I wasn’t particularly fast off the side of the scrum, so they boys ruled me out of loose forward. Anyway, bare feet, frosty grounds, every Saturday, we all played footy. My claim to fame came one weekend when I went to stay at a mate’s place for the weekend, and they were off to a scout jamboree. So I was chucked in the back of the car with the rest of the kids and off we went. I watched all the goings on, as they tied knots and climbed ropes and generally hung out having fun. Then one of the fathers ran up and said, “Can you play rugby? We have a game about to start and we are one short.” I never gave up a chance to play footy, or bull rush for that matter. “Sure, I can play. I play prop.” (I didn’t want to get stuck at lock again.) “We got plenty of forwards; we will put you on the wing. Come on.” Well, I had never played on the wing, but I knew the position well enough. Regardless, I was nervous. Still, I wasn’t about to miss a chance to play, so off we went. I spent nearly the whole game out on that cold lonely wing, as the forwards rumbled around the park fighting for the ball. It came out a couple of times, but I was crunched pretty quickly, and had to endure two sets of forward packs kicking their way overtop my body looking for the ball. Anyway, fast forward to the near end of the game, and we were on attack, near their goal line. The ball came out, passed between the backs, and finally…to me. For some reason, there was no one marking me so I started running as fast as I could to the try line, holding the ball under my arm tightly. It was probably luck, but the cover defence didn’t get to me until I hit the line. About three of them, plus the rest of the forwards came late thinking it would be a ruck. No Jeff Wilson mistake for me, I held on tightly to the ball until the referee started pulling bodies off me to see who was at the bottom of the pile. He saw me, saw the ball, and blew his whistle. I had scored. Next thing I knew, people were patting me on the back, and then lifting me up. The game was over, we won. I had scored the winning try. I was the hero. I couldn’t wait to tell my club mates the following weekend and put in my case to be our normal winger. But they didn’t believe me, and put me back on the forwards. My glory days were over, I was only about ten years old, but I have never forgotten them.

A Y NY

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WITH BRUCE LIGHTFOOT

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Around

Second Time

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ALL BLACK VE BEEN AN I COULD HA

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T E K R A M W E N

For further information on LINK bus routes, timetables and prices, visit www.maxx.co.nz/LINK

maxx.co.nz/LINK 09 366 6400 SERVICE BROUGHT TO YOU BY AUCKLAND TRANSPORT & NZ BUS

IN UNISON

COLUMN RT WITH PIETE W IE V R E T IN

Musical

Notes

WITH JEY JOHNSTON

WITH HIS SERENADING VOCALS AND LAID BACK DEMEANOUR, R&B sensation Pieter T has all the right things to make the girls love him and the guys want to be like him. Currently one of the biggest names in New Zealand music, he has come a long way from being the small time Hamilton teenager he was when he first arrived in Auckland in 2009, with a dream to become famous. That dream became a reality in 2010, when he released his first studio album “Life, Love & Lessons” which catapulted him in to the spotlight.

“

One girl in Whangarei tried pulling my clothes off while I was on stage. She pulled my boots off and I was in the middle of performing so I couldn't exactly stop. Next minute she's tugging on my jeans and I'm trying to stay dressed! She's not the only fan to try and tear my clothes off though haha.

middle of performing so I couldn’t exactly stop. Next minute she’s tugging on my jeans and I’m trying to stay dressed! She’s not the only fan to try and tear my clothes off though haha. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? I want to be as big as I can in NZ, whether it’s as an R&B artist or in other genres. I used to be a real fan of all styles of music, but once you focus on one genre you tend to you get comfortable. So for me it’s all about breaking those boundaries and thinking outside of the box. MOST PEOPLE ASSUME THAT IF YOU’RE ON TV AND RADIO THAT YOU MUST LIVE IN A MANSION AND DRIVE A LAMBORGHINI. SO DO YOU? Shatter that misconception right now! Everything I have, I have earned from working. It’s something that’s only particular to NZ there’s nowhere else in the world where you would have to hold down a full time job as well as doing music and it’s purely down to our population. If you focus on creating music internationally and it’s a hit, Kiwi’s are going to love it anyway. But if you focus solely on music for NZ you will never make enough money from music to survive. Money made from music is okay but it won’t last forever and there’s always going to be bills. So when you see me on TV and think I’m paid millions, just remember that everything I do, I earn and pay for on my own!

“

TELL US HOW IT ALL BEGAN... I had the dream of doing music when I was about 13, but it wasn’t until I was 18 that I realised people who were making the dream a reality were all living in Auckland. So I moved up from Hamilton and my career kicked off from there. You debut album “Life, Love & Lessons” is a journey about past love and relationships. DO YOU FIND IT HARD TO SHARE SO MANY OF YOUR PERSONAL STORIES WITH THE WORLD? There’s a heavy amount of personal in the album but at the end of the day, nobody but me is going to know exactly what came from my own experiences and what came from other things, like a movie or a situation a friend was in that I’ve written about. When you’re in the spotlight people invest in you, not just your music. They want to know what makes you tick and what goes on behind the scenes in your relationships. I like to share a piece of myself with the fans but at the same time I don’t want to give too much away. WHAT HAS BEEN THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR? The realisation that I’d made it. I kept telling myself I wasn’t that famous or that successful, then one day it hit me – actually bro I am! My songs are on radio, I’m on TV, my name is dropped in to conversations about R&B singers and I’ve achieved so much. I must be doing something right! IF YOU WEREN’T A SINGER, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING? Making money, business has always been in my veins. WHERE IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO GIG AND WHY? I love performing in Australia because the support is crazy! All of the Kiwi’s living there want to be a part of home so much, whether you miss a note or whatever they don’t care – they are just happy that you’re there! WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST THING A FAN HAS EVER SAID OR DONE? Ooh snap! One girl in Whangarei tried pulling my clothes off while I was on stage. She pulled my boots off and I was in the

IN UNISON WHATS ON

FEATURED EVENT Black Out BBQ 21 September, FREE, Bldg. 180 Mt. Albert Campus

Staff & students come dressed in all of your black gear (or the colours of the team your supporting in the RWC). 12:30pm in The HUB there will be a free BBQ, free face painting, a Black Out photo wall and a RWC inspired game where you can participate and win prizes!!

MONDAY 19TH SEP Meditation Group

1 6:30 PM, FREE, Unitec Chapel This workshop introduces a range of simple and powerful techniques to beat stress and experience the deep satisfaction of inner peace. You are encouraged to attend all sessions to get maximum benefit from the course. Please kindly do not join after the first week. Contact Tom McGuire 021 528 177 (Auckland Sri Chinmoy Centre)

SATURDAY 24TH SEP Rugby Match NZ vs. France

24 September 7:30 PM, FREE, Carrington’s Carrington’s is catching the Rugby World Cup Fever and holding an event night for students to catch the NZ vs. France match. There is a food a drink special (Beer and Pizza for $10!!) So head down with your rugby pride for some cheap eats!!

THURSDAY 29TH SEP Blood drive for NZ Blood

10 AM, Unitec Sports Centre Mt. Albert Come along to the blood drive run by NZ Blood for a chance to save someone’s life. It only takes a few minutes to donate, but you can change someone’s life forever!

WEDNESDAY 28TH SEP Toil and Trouble

7:30PM, 28 September, $19 Student Ticket, Titirangi Theatre During the month of August, if you are a resident of central Auckland, a proof of address at entry will grant you FREE ADMISSION to MOTAT. Visit www.motat. org.nz for the list of qualifying central suburbs.

FRIDAY 30TH SEP Football World Cup

10 AM, $45 per team, Unitec Fields Get some friends together and choose a Country name and be part of a wonderful day competing against other nations, students and staff. Registration is at USU Reception and closes on Wednesday the 28th of September.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.USU.CO.NZ OR SEARCH USU AT UNITEC ON FACEBOOK

IN UNISON

CAPTION COMP

SEND YOUR CAPTIONS TO INUNISON@UNITEC.AC.NZ OR TXT TO 022 095 1455 THE TOP 3 FAVOURITE SUBMISSIONS FOR THIS WEEKS CAPTION CONTEST WILL RECEIVE A DOUBLE PASS TO THE THREE MUSKETEERS. THE THREE MUSKETEERS is coming to cinemas on the 13th October, and In Unison is giving you the chance to WIN one of 3 double passes to THE THREE MUSKETEERS!

SYNOPSIS Based on Alexandre Dumas classic novel comes a bigscreen action adventure update of THE THREE MUSKETEERS, conceived and shot in state-of-the-art 3D. They are known as Porthos, Athos, and Aramis, three elite warriors who serve the King of France as his best Musketeers. After discovering an evil conspiracy to overthrow the King, the Musketeers come across a young, aspiring hero, D Artagnan, and take him under their wing. Together, the four embark on a dangerous mission to foil the plot that not only threatens the Crown, but the future of Europe itself.

This Week's Pic Last Weeks winner:

ekend carnival were in “Rodeo riders for the we uurman short supply” -Rachel Sch

Reserved by Constantin Film Verleih GmbH.

SQUASH

Come collect your double pass to “Tree of Life” from the USU office!

There is just no game like it

Finishing your sports-related degree – but need to strengthen your practical skills to get your dream job working with elite-level athletes?

National Squash Centre **NEW MANAGEMENT SPECIAL** Come down to the Squash Centre, bring some friends and get FREE hire of Squash Racquets & Balls and only pay $4.50 per person for a 45 minute game.

You can – and best of all you can study by distance, and work at the same time!

The Complex is Open: 9.00am to 9.00pm Monday to Friday Saturday and Sunday 9.00am to 5.00pm Come along and meet Trevor Colyer (former World Masters Champion) Ask him nicely and he will give you a free squash lesson for you and 3 friends. 834 Unison 09.11

0800 762 786 www.op.ac.nz

Our Graduate Diploma in Physical Conditioning (Level 7) will give you the practical skills to design and implement effective physical conditioning programmes that work in the professional sporting environment. Study full-time or part-time by distance. For more information on our 2012 programme, contact the Otago Institute of Sport and Adventure.

National Squash Centre: •Building 201 Unitec Mt Albert Campus• Phone: (09) 815 8602 •Email: play@natsquash.co.nz•

WHO WILL BE

THE NEXT UNI

TEC FOOTBALL

CHAMPIONS?

FOOTBALL

WORLD CUP FridAy 13Th MAy fROm 11.00am UniTec SPOrTS FieLdS

GeT yOUr STAr FiLLed TeAM TOGeTher (wiTh 7-10 PLAyerS) Pick A cOUnTry And reGiSTer AT USU recePTiOn (BLdG 180) GreAT PrizeS TO Be wOn, LOTS OF FUn And A Free BBQ LUnch! reGiSTrATiOnS cLOSe wedneSdAy 11Th MAy $45 Per TeAM iS PAyABLe AT The TiMe OF reGiSTrATiOn. usu Students’Association at Unitec

ww.USU.cO.nz