Just what is it ....
In less than 3 weeks I will be a pensioner. So, what shall I do with myself? I saw an ad on Neighbourly by an outfit called English Language Partners a few weeks ago. Asking for volunteers. Teaching English to new immigrants I expect. Now, I have a post-grad diploma in education (that's a bit more than an M.A. where I come from), I spent years teaching German as a Second Language to Vietnamese Boat People, I have specialist phonetics training. I am familiar with the Berlitz method.
I've taken people with no knowledge of the language through to university entrance level ....
I thought: I'll give these guys a ring. I might be able to help, I don't need extra pay ...
... well, I have barely started to introduce myself when the woman goes "Do you have a certificate in teaching English as a Second Language?"
No, I don't. (but I probably have better experience and teaching skills than many of the people working for you -- I didn't say that, though).
She just fobbed me off: "Well in that case I cannot employ you." Click.
I wasn't actually looking for EMPLOYMENT. I was offering to volunteer. This was a real Simpsons moment for me .... doh! Ah well. Sadly, I know I'd be no good at picking up trash by the roadside, my knees would not allow me. Ho hum. At times the ignorant arrogance of some Kiwis is just mind-boggling to me.
Poll: 🤖 What skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
The Reserve Bank has shared some pretty blunt advice: there’s no such thing as a “safe” job anymore 🛟😑
Robots are stepping into repetitive roles in factories, plants and warehouses. AI is taking care of the admin tasks that once filled many mid-level office jobs.
We want to know: As the world evolves, what skills do you think give a CV the ultimate edge in a robot-filled workplace?
Want to read more? The Press has you covered!
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52.1% Human-centred experience and communication
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15.2% Critical thinking
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30.1% Resilience and adaptability
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2.6% Other - I will share below!
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
Whangarei Aglow Meeting
Please join us for an inspiring massage from Pastor Geoff Wiklund, 7 pm Tikipunga Baptist Church, 25th of February!
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