Thats a big 10-4 buddy. Another riverting day at HP. Counting the hours, before i'm off. This pic directly from phone.
And i'm spent!, originally uploaded by duchats.
Friday, December 23, 2005
And i'm spent!
Thats a big 10-4 buddy. Another riverting day at HP. Counting the hours, before i'm off. This pic directly from phone.
And i'm spent!, originally uploaded by duchats.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
2005 what a year!
Well people its been a fantastic year overall. We've all laughed, cried and partied, some might say too hard but where all still here!!
I thought I would put together a little slide show of the best photos of the year from my collection. I couldn't get it below 70 odd photos...but its worth it.
I hope every one has had a great year; it has defiantly been the most jam-packed one for me. It's hard to think we are about to arrive at another new years, when the last seemed so close. A year that has seen its fair share of parting, new jobs, travel, new friends and new Places.
But I do have some high/Low lights:
Big Day Out 2005 - From what I remember it was one hell of a show. And I'm sure the random girl I gave my phone to at the end of the night appreciated it! Also the duChateau blessings (Hand on head) I was doing all night, which Troll and Harbott found very amusing, while the large skinhead did not.
Senior Reserves return (Rugby)- After making a bigger come back since Jesus, I was happy to actually make it through the season, even though our team couldn't muster enough players to start a game of Chess. Some say it was my leadership style, but I didn't realise I was in charge. On top of playing, it was also nice to get invited to some messy 21st again, which we all know are a fringe benefit of the local game.
Joe Ward - Not so much the man, but the call. The immortal quote "What would you know Joe Ward...." Has transcended culture and borders. Nothing warms the heart more than to imagine the fateful scene playing out between Joe and AD. Although Harbott and myself have taken this gem to the masses, lets not forget who got the ball rolling. Also special mention for starting the "Kamikaze Mock" defence, when ever a person senses a piss take coming their way, they actually launch into themselves, and thus using all the best lines before the attackers get there blows in. Works a charm for those with, Big Noses, Bad Feet, Cheesy Smiles, Large Eyebrows, Massive Jaws, A Freakish tooth, Bald spots, and Small Claves.
Tri-Nations Cricket- Every year this event becomes bigger than it's self. And this year was no exception. With more piss than a Woodstock concert, and less skill than a ball of Wool. The Annual cricket tournament played between Westlake, Rosmini and the All Stars is perhaps the sporting highlight of the year. The Lads put on a spectacular show, with Pretty gaining special mention. I can't really remember who won the game, but I do remember the amount of kegs drunk. Standing at 6 + 3-4 creates. Special times. I'll miss this year something awful.
Wellington Sevens - Need I mention the controlled shambles which is the 7's. Once again Ghostbusters was the theme, 2nd time around. The lads even made it on TV and radio. Our 15min people. The other lads came as Firemen, and caused absolute havoc. AD being kicked out within 10min. Dorkman swearing on live radio, classic. Dancing in Courtney place with Proton packs on, priceless.
The Globetrotter - Buchanan, Harbott and the duChats would say this was a highlight, but in reality moving out of that place was a fuckin nightmare. 3 Days worth of physical labour (First in my life), 3 tons of rubbish. Unhappy parents. Strange smells. Finding lost flatmates and socks. Holes in the wall. Scrubbing for an hour, with no reward. Dumping most of the bar in Harbotts garage. The guy at the tip taking most of our trash before it hit the ground. It might have been dirty, it might have been ugly, but we'll miss her.
Parties - Engagements, 21st, 30th, Dress up, opening and closing. This year had it all. Doc and Nurse’s party with Jacko, Myer and Richards being high on the list. Medddddiiiiiiic. Why did we need the bottle of port? The final Globetrotter party will go down as one of the best, how to close an institution. Well Veale and Troll know.....trash the place. Funny then, and to be honest fuckin funny now. Bash it and set fire to it, why not! Actually catching someone crying during the presentation was equally as moving. Gunny, Bullshit, Davies and the Pyjama Party, absolutely funniest shit ever. Watching the Wilson clan in action at Dun'c 30th, and I thought the du Chateau's were a special lot. Dalton, Harbott and My going away dig, proving we actually had friends...always an important moment in ones life. I could go on, but in all fairness I can't remember to many more......blame the drink.
Takapuna - Getting balls drunk in takapuna was perhaps one of my more enjoyable experiences. Now this may seem a sad revelation, but let me explain. A place where you never queue, always know someone inside and....well that’s all the reasons I need. Some say it's Towns younger cousin, well we like them young! The added bonus of Dunny being banned from the entire strip also adds to its appeal! Watching the bouncer from the Sin Bin deny entry to Conrad Smith and Richie Macaw, has to be the single most stupid incident witnessed all year. The teasing of this goon that followed was brilliant! Seeing Troll get booted out of the Cooper room on 2 separate occasions, then walking back in with the owner...Wanker. Maybe he should give tips to Dunny. Also worth a mention is the DB lads, when ever they get with in 50 ft of the Cougar room they turn into madmen!! all Class.
The Breweries - This year has seen some of the finest doughnut yet. There is no other feeling like downing free pint after free pint, it just make the pain the next day all worth it. I have been the fortunate situation to know a few brewery reps, indeed flatting with 2 also helps. Having the bar stocked was always taken for granted, and boy do I miss it now. Between DB and Lion, I must have visited every event in Auckland, I even had to turn some things down, but no one likes state house rugby. I am not the only one who can lay claim to the Doughnut throne, I believe Jacko still sits atop. Getting invited to various work events was also special, I almost felt part of the team. Turning up to sporting events with Brewery clothing on, and one of the staff commenting that they can't even get that one! Opps. So thanks lads, and thanks to you credit cards and expenditure accounts.
Travelling- Basically China gets big rap for just being so darn entertaining. The amount of ammo Harbott and myself have gained out of the place is amazing, as described in this very blog. Where else can you bet on a chicken shitting on a certain square, then watch as a homeless guy runs off with the star of the game (Dinner). Fireworks that make a scud look small, and cheap beer. Travelling at its best. And Dublin for having more bars than my little mind can comprehend.
I could potentially write a novel on this year, the more I type the more I remember. Frankly I’d be surprised if you had read this far. It's been great fun this year, and no doubt 2006 will bring many more stories and experiences. We are all off to Belfast then Scotland for New Years, staying at Jimmy Saunders place. So should be a good weekend. Will have plenty of yarns for the blog on our safe return.
But until then people, Merry Xmas and have a Great New Years.
duChats
Send me you Best Yearns of the 2005, and I'll post them on the blog!
I thought I would put together a little slide show of the best photos of the year from my collection. I couldn't get it below 70 odd photos...but its worth it.
I hope every one has had a great year; it has defiantly been the most jam-packed one for me. It's hard to think we are about to arrive at another new years, when the last seemed so close. A year that has seen its fair share of parting, new jobs, travel, new friends and new Places.
But I do have some high/Low lights:
Big Day Out 2005 - From what I remember it was one hell of a show. And I'm sure the random girl I gave my phone to at the end of the night appreciated it! Also the duChateau blessings (Hand on head) I was doing all night, which Troll and Harbott found very amusing, while the large skinhead did not.
Senior Reserves return (Rugby)- After making a bigger come back since Jesus, I was happy to actually make it through the season, even though our team couldn't muster enough players to start a game of Chess. Some say it was my leadership style, but I didn't realise I was in charge. On top of playing, it was also nice to get invited to some messy 21st again, which we all know are a fringe benefit of the local game.
Joe Ward - Not so much the man, but the call. The immortal quote "What would you know Joe Ward...." Has transcended culture and borders. Nothing warms the heart more than to imagine the fateful scene playing out between Joe and AD. Although Harbott and myself have taken this gem to the masses, lets not forget who got the ball rolling. Also special mention for starting the "Kamikaze Mock" defence, when ever a person senses a piss take coming their way, they actually launch into themselves, and thus using all the best lines before the attackers get there blows in. Works a charm for those with, Big Noses, Bad Feet, Cheesy Smiles, Large Eyebrows, Massive Jaws, A Freakish tooth, Bald spots, and Small Claves.
Tri-Nations Cricket- Every year this event becomes bigger than it's self. And this year was no exception. With more piss than a Woodstock concert, and less skill than a ball of Wool. The Annual cricket tournament played between Westlake, Rosmini and the All Stars is perhaps the sporting highlight of the year. The Lads put on a spectacular show, with Pretty gaining special mention. I can't really remember who won the game, but I do remember the amount of kegs drunk. Standing at 6 + 3-4 creates. Special times. I'll miss this year something awful.
Wellington Sevens - Need I mention the controlled shambles which is the 7's. Once again Ghostbusters was the theme, 2nd time around. The lads even made it on TV and radio. Our 15min people. The other lads came as Firemen, and caused absolute havoc. AD being kicked out within 10min. Dorkman swearing on live radio, classic. Dancing in Courtney place with Proton packs on, priceless.
The Globetrotter - Buchanan, Harbott and the duChats would say this was a highlight, but in reality moving out of that place was a fuckin nightmare. 3 Days worth of physical labour (First in my life), 3 tons of rubbish. Unhappy parents. Strange smells. Finding lost flatmates and socks. Holes in the wall. Scrubbing for an hour, with no reward. Dumping most of the bar in Harbotts garage. The guy at the tip taking most of our trash before it hit the ground. It might have been dirty, it might have been ugly, but we'll miss her.
Parties - Engagements, 21st, 30th, Dress up, opening and closing. This year had it all. Doc and Nurse’s party with Jacko, Myer and Richards being high on the list. Medddddiiiiiiic. Why did we need the bottle of port? The final Globetrotter party will go down as one of the best, how to close an institution. Well Veale and Troll know.....trash the place. Funny then, and to be honest fuckin funny now. Bash it and set fire to it, why not! Actually catching someone crying during the presentation was equally as moving. Gunny, Bullshit, Davies and the Pyjama Party, absolutely funniest shit ever. Watching the Wilson clan in action at Dun'c 30th, and I thought the du Chateau's were a special lot. Dalton, Harbott and My going away dig, proving we actually had friends...always an important moment in ones life. I could go on, but in all fairness I can't remember to many more......blame the drink.
Takapuna - Getting balls drunk in takapuna was perhaps one of my more enjoyable experiences. Now this may seem a sad revelation, but let me explain. A place where you never queue, always know someone inside and....well that’s all the reasons I need. Some say it's Towns younger cousin, well we like them young! The added bonus of Dunny being banned from the entire strip also adds to its appeal! Watching the bouncer from the Sin Bin deny entry to Conrad Smith and Richie Macaw, has to be the single most stupid incident witnessed all year. The teasing of this goon that followed was brilliant! Seeing Troll get booted out of the Cooper room on 2 separate occasions, then walking back in with the owner...Wanker. Maybe he should give tips to Dunny. Also worth a mention is the DB lads, when ever they get with in 50 ft of the Cougar room they turn into madmen!! all Class.
The Breweries - This year has seen some of the finest doughnut yet. There is no other feeling like downing free pint after free pint, it just make the pain the next day all worth it. I have been the fortunate situation to know a few brewery reps, indeed flatting with 2 also helps. Having the bar stocked was always taken for granted, and boy do I miss it now. Between DB and Lion, I must have visited every event in Auckland, I even had to turn some things down, but no one likes state house rugby. I am not the only one who can lay claim to the Doughnut throne, I believe Jacko still sits atop. Getting invited to various work events was also special, I almost felt part of the team. Turning up to sporting events with Brewery clothing on, and one of the staff commenting that they can't even get that one! Opps. So thanks lads, and thanks to you credit cards and expenditure accounts.
Travelling- Basically China gets big rap for just being so darn entertaining. The amount of ammo Harbott and myself have gained out of the place is amazing, as described in this very blog. Where else can you bet on a chicken shitting on a certain square, then watch as a homeless guy runs off with the star of the game (Dinner). Fireworks that make a scud look small, and cheap beer. Travelling at its best. And Dublin for having more bars than my little mind can comprehend.
I could potentially write a novel on this year, the more I type the more I remember. Frankly I’d be surprised if you had read this far. It's been great fun this year, and no doubt 2006 will bring many more stories and experiences. We are all off to Belfast then Scotland for New Years, staying at Jimmy Saunders place. So should be a good weekend. Will have plenty of yarns for the blog on our safe return.
But until then people, Merry Xmas and have a Great New Years.
duChats
Send me you Best Yearns of the 2005, and I'll post them on the blog!
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Summer ....Any one heard of Cricket!!!
Well Folks,
I think a few blogs ago I mentioned how good it is to be able to watch NZ teams tour the UK and watch the games unfold at a comfy time, like 2.30pm. Now after 5 weeks of these 2.30p kickoffs, I am glad to be able to resume normal drinking hours, a la 7ish. Why is it we have to drink when watching the All Blacks, come to think of it, I don't remember the last game I watched sober!!!! Brilliant
So after yet another 2.30 kick off, and predictable All Black victory followed by a rather surprising Kiwi's triumph... You can imagine the state we were all in. Not to mention our friend Sean supplying all the refreshments, care of Hieneken! Being the gracious guests, we filled our boots. Carnage ensued at the Bar, couch diving and poor dancing being the main culprits. A great day to be a Kiwi, and shit house to be an Aussie within 10 feet of me! I sure made up for the past 10yrs of sporting misery.
So Our rugby season has finished, now for theirs to kick off. I need cricket!!!! I see many an argument arising in the bars around Dublin, as a drunkin duChats tries to get any game of cricket put on the TV. It's about as popular over here as a Ham sandwich in a synagogue, I'll have to start watching bloody soccer eventually. We might have to bit the bullet and order Sky!!
duChats
p.s. The next few weeks blogs will have a festive theme......what ever that is!!!! HoHoHo
I think a few blogs ago I mentioned how good it is to be able to watch NZ teams tour the UK and watch the games unfold at a comfy time, like 2.30pm. Now after 5 weeks of these 2.30p kickoffs, I am glad to be able to resume normal drinking hours, a la 7ish. Why is it we have to drink when watching the All Blacks, come to think of it, I don't remember the last game I watched sober!!!! Brilliant
So after yet another 2.30 kick off, and predictable All Black victory followed by a rather surprising Kiwi's triumph... You can imagine the state we were all in. Not to mention our friend Sean supplying all the refreshments, care of Hieneken! Being the gracious guests, we filled our boots. Carnage ensued at the Bar, couch diving and poor dancing being the main culprits. A great day to be a Kiwi, and shit house to be an Aussie within 10 feet of me! I sure made up for the past 10yrs of sporting misery.
So Our rugby season has finished, now for theirs to kick off. I need cricket!!!! I see many an argument arising in the bars around Dublin, as a drunkin duChats tries to get any game of cricket put on the TV. It's about as popular over here as a Ham sandwich in a synagogue, I'll have to start watching bloody soccer eventually. We might have to bit the bullet and order Sky!!
duChats
p.s. The next few weeks blogs will have a festive theme......what ever that is!!!! HoHoHo
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Rant
Brilliant win against the poms. Now can we please stop hearing about:
- How they don't like the Haka. Please shut up. Oh "It's very intimidating"...no shit, I believe that's the idea. These English dip shits have no concept of it, and therefore should not voice there opinion at all. It's a fuckin joke.
- How brilliant and gallant the English are, heads held high. Arse. They got beaten fair and bloody square. Even with 14 men on the field they didn't look close. Brilliant.
- How we don't deserve to host the World Cup. Wankers. Every person over hear is complaining that the japs didn't get it. Some twat said we will not even full the stadiums, because a few on the Lions Tour were not full! NZ bashing is well and alive my friends!
I'm sure I had more to complain about, but with large hangover clouding my thought's will save for later. Lets just smash the Scot's, and piss of home. Love the Irish, but over anything to do with English sport!
Had a great night on the gas though. Loving the 2.30pm kick off's, really sets up the night. Right, rant over.
duChats
Friday, November 18, 2005
Get off the couch you lazy sod!
For those of you who have been tracking our job progress, I am pleased to inform that we are at least one job closer to our ultimate goal!
I managed to pick a job up this week, via an amazing ability to steer at the phone till it rings, and then get employed thru what can only be described as sheer desperation and a mild case of cabin fever. A Lovely little seat has been reserved at HP (Hewlett Packard) on their service desk for me. 3 Month contract, which suits all parties down to the ground.
Have had 2 exhausting days at the coal face, and Friday night came with much enthusiasm indeed. It's really hard to describe going back to work after 2 months of late starts (sleep ins) and much viewing of Oprah and Discovery channel (American Chooper and Mythbusters are my favs). Having witnessed some of the levels of work ethic so far, it seems not to be to far removed from my work levels in the past 2 months. But no doubt it will pick up! Was extremely disappointed re: the dress standard, looks like the 2 Suits purchased on recent trip to the Orient with be gathering a bit of dust for the time being. Might have to initiate formal Fridays.....Beezer.
So big Steveo has a few offers on the table and will be adding his little story very shortly.
P.s. Its really good to be surrounded by Geeks again, its like a home coming of sorts...but with out the StarTrek uniforms...maybe thats Wednesdays getup!
I managed to pick a job up this week, via an amazing ability to steer at the phone till it rings, and then get employed thru what can only be described as sheer desperation and a mild case of cabin fever. A Lovely little seat has been reserved at HP (Hewlett Packard) on their service desk for me. 3 Month contract, which suits all parties down to the ground.
Have had 2 exhausting days at the coal face, and Friday night came with much enthusiasm indeed. It's really hard to describe going back to work after 2 months of late starts (sleep ins) and much viewing of Oprah and Discovery channel (American Chooper and Mythbusters are my favs). Having witnessed some of the levels of work ethic so far, it seems not to be to far removed from my work levels in the past 2 months. But no doubt it will pick up! Was extremely disappointed re: the dress standard, looks like the 2 Suits purchased on recent trip to the Orient with be gathering a bit of dust for the time being. Might have to initiate formal Fridays.....Beezer.
So big Steveo has a few offers on the table and will be adding his little story very shortly.
P.s. Its really good to be surrounded by Geeks again, its like a home coming of sorts...but with out the StarTrek uniforms...maybe thats Wednesdays getup!
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
All Blacks, MacKay and O'Driscoll
So then came Saturday, Test day. We had hoped to maybe get tickets for this huge game, but in lieu of the Fire, we really had no hope. Because of the location of Lansdowne Rd being very close to town, Test match days seem to turn into one big Pub crawl down to the game. So when in Dublin... 
We had a few more visitors as well, Emma and her two friends, Naomi and Ali were all down
from Belfast, so we thought being the locals we would show them around. Off to Searsons on Baggott st. This place is located only down the rd, so as you can imagine it was packed tighter than the North Stand would have been...but wasn't because they were all in this bar!!! Even managed to meet up with Buzz and a few others from back home before the match. So it all made for a great atmosphere, plenty of Kiwis and Irish all loving it. Every time Umaga was on screen the Irish booed, and we cheered, all in good fun though.
We had a few more visitors as well, Emma and her two friends, Naomi and Ali were all down
from Belfast, so we thought being the locals we would show them around. Off to Searsons on Baggott st. This place is located only down the rd, so as you can imagine it was packed tighter than the North Stand would have been...but wasn't because they were all in this bar!!! Even managed to meet up with Buzz and a few others from back home before the match. So it all made for a great atmosphere, plenty of Kiwis and Irish all loving it. Every time Umaga was on screen the Irish booed, and we cheered, all in good fun though.
Little did I know that a tour highlight was just around the corner, in Burger King of all places. Celebrity stalking has become our game people, not A celebs, or even B,
but our very own class of them. So after the Jordan Luck incident, I was happy and a little shocked to see my old Nemesis Hamish MacKay (TV3) right in the queue behind us. It was all Bad Mews for MacKay, as duChats lined him up from 20 out, bumping punters off left, right and center. Whopper firmly in hand, and managed to not spill a drop of drink, sensational. Camera please. He even managed to do a runing commentry while the photos was being snapped, classic.
After this we went into town, and headed to a few more hotspots, ending up at a bar which the name of escapes me, or I never knew...no matter. Was a fav of Emma's, Great place. We also happened to run into another local, Mr Brian O'Driscoll. Who was at the bar having a few drinks, 
so after a quick breakdown of the game I whipped out the trusty camera and got a photo of him with Steveo, lovely shot, right before I Speared him into his pint of Guinness....Priceless...send that to MasterCard! The bar security camera was inconclusive, but Mr Campbell said members of the public are welcome to come forward with incriminating footage...dam camera phones!!
This bar had a split personality, downstairs to the right a really cool dance bar and to the left Goth bar...guess which one we ended up in for a few painful minutes. Now at 2am it takes time to know ones surroundings, and this was no different. After making friends with Marilyn and his pin cushion girlfriend, it must have been due to my Black garb or just being a really nice guy. I'm sure the pin Cushion was eying my metal free face up, like an unplowed field to a farmer. It was exit stage right.
After watching an especially drunk Irishman (See Photo) try to dance on the bar stools once to often, the bouncer asked him to cut it out, but as a drunk man so often does he just kept on trying to dance on that stool, shirt off..the little Irishman that could. With the crowd anticipating some kind of stage dive, it was heading for disaster, now back home this guy would have been knuckled and turfed out quicker than a Samoan in Christchurch. But no, not in Dublin, the solution for the bouncer was to Remove the Chair, problem solved.
Kinda sums up the place for mine, brilliant end to the night. Off home for some Veda and Cheese!!
duChats
Londons Calling - Pre Test
After a great night with the Exponets, it would have been hard to top that kind of night, but luckily this is Dublin...City of bars... Lots of them.
We were expecting quite a few visitors for the weekend, and by Friday night the London rifraf had floated in on seedy tide. Duncan Wilson , Leyton Perris, Darryl (Doggy), Grant ( Grunta) and Mark Wells. Now I tell you there full names, because on the Elderstatemen Blog we have no secrets and hide behind no nicknames, unless I do not actually know the persons real name, then the 'Nick' will surface.
So after meeting a few of them at the Guinness factory for the obligatory Pint, I meet them all later on at a lovely little Italian, table for six anyone...tradgic start to the night. It was then off to Cafe in Sinne, very impressive bar, infact the best in Dublin. But tonight was not their night, and tequila ruined any 'chances' in this place. So off to what can only be described as Dublins "Poedium", what more can you say of a bar that goes from being 'Tumble Weed" empty, to can't swing a freckin cat in 30min. Rio's had been found, and a new home for the duChats in the process.
The lads were in full swing, rounds of White sambuca and something with ice in it....Shit I don't know, this while offending all in sundry, and keeping the bouncers on their toes at the same time.
Every convo would inevitably revole round Us whipping the Irish the next day, or how old we all were, which on reflection was quite evident, even with the impressive lighting. It was time to leave. You know your ready to call ita night when you ask the Cabbie to recommend another Venue, and he replies with 'Home'....Shit I hope he wasn't hitting on me!
We were expecting quite a few visitors for the weekend, and by Friday night the London rifraf had floated in on seedy tide. Duncan Wilson , Leyton Perris, Darryl (Doggy), Grant ( Grunta) and Mark Wells. Now I tell you there full names, because on the Elderstatemen Blog we have no secrets and hide behind no nicknames, unless I do not actually know the persons real name, then the 'Nick' will surface.
So after meeting a few of them at the Guinness factory for the obligatory Pint, I meet them all later on at a lovely little Italian, table for six anyone...tradgic start to the night. It was then off to Cafe in Sinne, very impressive bar, infact the best in Dublin. But tonight was not their night, and tequila ruined any 'chances' in this place. So off to what can only be described as Dublins "Poedium", what more can you say of a bar that goes from being 'Tumble Weed" empty, to can't swing a freckin cat in 30min. Rio's had been found, and a new home for the duChats in the process.
The lads were in full swing, rounds of White sambuca and something with ice in it....Shit I don't know, this while offending all in sundry, and keeping the bouncers on their toes at the same time.
Every convo would inevitably revole round Us whipping the Irish the next day, or how old we all were, which on reflection was quite evident, even with the impressive lighting. It was time to leave. You know your ready to call ita night when you ask the Cabbie to recommend another Venue, and he replies with 'Home'....Shit I hope he wasn't hitting on me!
Friday, November 11, 2005
The Exponents
Well folks,
I have decided to create a special, one off, pre-weekend posting of grand proportions. The setting for last night, was the famed Woolshed. This place is a veritable magnet for Kiwi and Aussies travelers and expats, but last night it resembled downtown Hamilton, but without the undesirable aspects of Hamilton.
It's funny that we have only been here for 1 month, and traveling for 2 all up, but seeing a poster for the Exponents was quite an exciting feeling. The old rockers from NZ, still touring the world, in Dublin. Apparently this is there last tour, but they said that 2 years ago.
We all met Jordan Luck (lead singer) outside, and after sharing our views on the world, music and politics it was a round of photos to remember the occasion. Jordan thinks Steve and myself should create our own travel show, I'm not sure if it was the heady mix of booze and cold Irish air, but he was clearly talking shit now. He failed to realise that we used all our best jokes within the 5min conversation with him...
While taking to Jordan, his wife told us that people in Dublin keep confusing him with Rod Stewart. Gutted, no one deserves that.
The Exponents were brilliant, just like all those nights listening to them a few years ago. Had mint spot to watch from, right above and behind the band. All the classics were played, which is what we all wanted. Best night yet in Dublin, not the authentic Irish experience I must admit. The bouncer next to me asked who these guys were, I said they were like U2 to Irish people, but just not famous outside of NZ.
Great night had by all. They are playing again tonight, we might take along all the lads who have come over for the testmatch. Should be a massive day tomorrow. No doubt another blog to follow.
duChats
Thursday, November 10, 2005
China Post Below
Steveo has added the China post from earlier on the tour, for those who have not read.
Click here for Super Asian Adventure - China
Click here for Super Asian Adventure - China
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Cone-an
Well team
After a couple of weeks on the job market the tourist have a 50% strike rate. Lisa managed to pick up a nannying job in about 2 days of looking, Dan just landed an advertising sales role in a new publication called metro whilst myself & duChats well.........we are still all dressed up with no where to go. But fear not concerned citizens these two aging wallflowers have had some very promising interviews and it would be a hugely surprising if a flood of employment offers wasn't forthcoming within the next 7 days.......we hope!!!
So what have we been doing with our time you might ask. Well, we managed to inflict NZ's one day cricket capitulation on a confused bunch of Irish punters in our local pub Traders bar. We have celebrated league and rugby success with our country men at the kiwi & Aussie bar in Dublin the Wool shed and we have also secured our first drunken trophy. A 4 foot ice cream affectionately named Cone-an. Not to mention we have started work on getting around all of Dublin's 800 odd pubs (so far we are right on track). Next week promises to be huge with the Exponents playing on Thursday night (we couldn't believe they were still touring either), as well as a bunch of lads coming over from the UK to see the AB's play the Irish on Saturday at Landsdown road. It should be good times.
Steveo
Thursday, October 20, 2005
House Party
After a tedious search through papers, websites and other inconvenient methods, we have finally found ourselves an abode. So fret not my friends, we now have shelter. No more sleeping under park benches, in halfway houses or at friendly locals places.
Mission 1 has been completed, now for the Jobs. This is moving along nicely, we both now hope that the 'Street Walking' option has been firmly put to option F, and hope to be gainfully employed within the next week. If not, then option F might move up the list, and we will have to break out the fishnets and pumps!!
Dan and Lisa arrive today, so no doubt the lucky bastards will be stoked to find we have got a place for them to live in...God we are good friends. Dan, Expect a rather extended and painful guilt trip from Harbott and myself.
Note: Boys are back playing rugby. Trained on Tuesday. Game on Sunday. Expect exaggerated and embellished stories of tries and famous victories to follow!
Cheers
duChats
Mission 1 has been completed, now for the Jobs. This is moving along nicely, we both now hope that the 'Street Walking' option has been firmly put to option F, and hope to be gainfully employed within the next week. If not, then option F might move up the list, and we will have to break out the fishnets and pumps!!
Dan and Lisa arrive today, so no doubt the lucky bastards will be stoked to find we have got a place for them to live in...God we are good friends. Dan, Expect a rather extended and painful guilt trip from Harbott and myself.
Note: Boys are back playing rugby. Trained on Tuesday. Game on Sunday. Expect exaggerated and embellished stories of tries and famous victories to follow!
Cheers
duChats
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Harbour and the Kiwis
Being 12 hours behind New Zealand presents a few interesting problems, which no doubt most of our readers have experienced. When it comes to sport, or the watching of live games from the southern hemisphere, it can be a pain in the arse.
So being geographically and time zoned challenged, Harbott and myself decided a quite Friday night was in order....7.30am Start on Saturday morning to Watch the Mighty North Harbour (www.harbourrugby.com) spank those Auckland wankers.
So 80min later, and a tankful of cursing, it was onto the League game. Brilliant, even at 10.30am and sober. Unfortunately its hard to revel in the victory when:
a) We know no Aussies to rip on
b) The Irish don't give a toss about the game of League
After this great victory we decided to continue the sports them and watch some utterly crap local Rugby Union. After paying the 8 Euro entry fee, we were treated to 30 blokes attempting to play a similar game to that played at home, minus - Skill, excitement or purpose.
So after this, it was upto the club rooms, only to be signed up for the club...not quite sure how that happened. Think it might have been some sweet talking ,but am sure booze was involed some how. Training tonight...Should be fun. By the way, team we might play for lost...badly. Looks like Harbott and myself will start the season like we finished it!!!!!
Day ended with Harbott and duChats getting on the Gas in the Temple Bar area...nothing to report. Honestly.......
Keep cool to after skool gang......
duChats
So being geographically and time zoned challenged, Harbott and myself decided a quite Friday night was in order....7.30am Start on Saturday morning to Watch the Mighty North Harbour (www.harbourrugby.com) spank those Auckland wankers.
So 80min later, and a tankful of cursing, it was onto the League game. Brilliant, even at 10.30am and sober. Unfortunately its hard to revel in the victory when:
a) We know no Aussies to rip on
b) The Irish don't give a toss about the game of League
After this great victory we decided to continue the sports them and watch some utterly crap local Rugby Union. After paying the 8 Euro entry fee, we were treated to 30 blokes attempting to play a similar game to that played at home, minus - Skill, excitement or purpose.
So after this, it was upto the club rooms, only to be signed up for the club...not quite sure how that happened. Think it might have been some sweet talking ,but am sure booze was involed some how. Training tonight...Should be fun. By the way, team we might play for lost...badly. Looks like Harbott and myself will start the season like we finished it!!!!!
Day ended with Harbott and duChats getting on the Gas in the Temple Bar area...nothing to report. Honestly.......
Keep cool to after skool gang......
duChats
Monday, October 10, 2005
Dublin and Bust
So we have got to were it said we would on the plane ticket. Dublin, Ireland. After a week of confusion and fast learning, we are making some head way. We basically have 2 things to do:
Find a Job and a House
So armed with this essential knowledge, it's off into the yonder to seek and find. Now, these tasks are usually quite difficult in your home town, let a lone 12,000 miles away in a new place. So getting to know the local layout is essential, and what better way to do this (and the only one known to Harbott and Myself) get on the Drink.
A phone call from our old mate, Adrian Kamariera, who lives in Dublin and we were off. The night was just like any other, nothing out of the ordinary. Just a good laugh, meeting heaps of new faces etc. In fact I could end the blog here, but then I remember a small incident care of Steven.
Let me paint the picture. New bar, drinking with a group of people and Harbott and duchats trying to impress. As I tend to do, I thought a tequila shot was required for the lads. Shot done, talking continued. I noticed a rather speedy Harbott off to the loo's. This does not look promising, so good friend that I am, I follow. Lucky I did.
As Harbott was redecorating the bath room door and floor, much to the dismay of the punters, I quickly found a mop….not sure from were. As he hurled I moped...what a team. Bouncer showed up, and with no mess to see went on his way. Classic. Stike out for the lads....
Anyway, boys are gearing up for Wednesday night, Ireland (Football) are playing in Dublin, so could be a good night out. Will keep you posted, on that and Job/House search.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
London-gate
Well we have arrived in Dublin, Ireland to a huge reception at the airport. All the people we know here turned out, waving flags and signs. So once they had cleared the straglers, we moved off to our Hostel in the middle of Dublin. And thats all we have really done here...mainly becasue we have been recovering from the London fiascio........
Arrived there late last Thursday, and after a good nights sleep started catching up with a few of the Lads. Dave Powles and Helen, Buzz, Dave Cacey. While staying with Duncan and Leyton, which they thought was great, mainly becasue we saw buggar all of them..
Went out on the Gas on Saturday night with Dave and Buzz in Clapham, what a place, what a town. Ended up going to a 'yarppie' house party, that can only be described as dismal. Now, as you all know Steveo and Myself have always prided ourselves on our House parties, but this was as low as they get. 24 Sth African blokes sitting around, broken up into sub groups talking about various geeky subjects and even having an attemp at play some music, care of a 3 string gutair. Lame.
After this it was off to Clapham, more specifically the Clapham grand. This was a home coming of sorts for the duChats, i had visted this magnificant venue a few years back, and nothing's changed. Crappy 70's hits, and cheesy house. We quickly set up base on the dance floor, and showed the local punters what was going on. After ejecting ourselves at around 2pm, it was off home.
Now this is where we got a bit Crazy. The NRL grand final was scheduled for the next morning at 10am. And Steve being the avid, should I say obsesive Tigers fan, it was off to the Slug and Lettece Fulham for the big game. After about 6 hours sleep and half a bacon sarnie, back on the Gas...Why.
After the Victory, and duChats once again changing his League team to suit the conditions we were off to the Walkabout, Sheepards Bush. Now most off you know this place, either first hand or by reputation. And it did not disappiont. After running into a rather lethargic 'Barney' (the other one) at the bar, it was on for young and old. Messy, but in a good messy way.
11pm came and went, we got invited to our first Staffies of the tour, but drunkinly delined becasue of lack of talent and headed home. Gone burger.
Next Day = write off. Nuff said.
duchats
Arrived there late last Thursday, and after a good nights sleep started catching up with a few of the Lads. Dave Powles and Helen, Buzz, Dave Cacey. While staying with Duncan and Leyton, which they thought was great, mainly becasue we saw buggar all of them..
Went out on the Gas on Saturday night with Dave and Buzz in Clapham, what a place, what a town. Ended up going to a 'yarppie' house party, that can only be described as dismal. Now, as you all know Steveo and Myself have always prided ourselves on our House parties, but this was as low as they get. 24 Sth African blokes sitting around, broken up into sub groups talking about various geeky subjects and even having an attemp at play some music, care of a 3 string gutair. Lame.
After this it was off to Clapham, more specifically the Clapham grand. This was a home coming of sorts for the duChats, i had visted this magnificant venue a few years back, and nothing's changed. Crappy 70's hits, and cheesy house. We quickly set up base on the dance floor, and showed the local punters what was going on. After ejecting ourselves at around 2pm, it was off home.
Now this is where we got a bit Crazy. The NRL grand final was scheduled for the next morning at 10am. And Steve being the avid, should I say obsesive Tigers fan, it was off to the Slug and Lettece Fulham for the big game. After about 6 hours sleep and half a bacon sarnie, back on the Gas...Why.
After the Victory, and duChats once again changing his League team to suit the conditions we were off to the Walkabout, Sheepards Bush. Now most off you know this place, either first hand or by reputation. And it did not disappiont. After running into a rather lethargic 'Barney' (the other one) at the bar, it was on for young and old. Messy, but in a good messy way.
11pm came and went, we got invited to our first Staffies of the tour, but drunkinly delined becasue of lack of talent and headed home. Gone burger.
Next Day = write off. Nuff said.
duchats
Friday, September 30, 2005
On Tour
Hey People,
So we have arrived in London, Was unable to update this little site, due to China's little date with Marxism. Now back on track and running smoothly. But not much to tell about London yet, only arrived last night, very late after a 25hour slog from China.
Caught up with Dave Powles and Helen, going to catch up tonight for a few drinks which should be cool. Off to Duncan and Leytons place very soon.
Right, will update with something a lot more interesting later on.
Cheers
Ben
Elderstatesman Tour
So we have arrived in London, Was unable to update this little site, due to China's little date with Marxism. Now back on track and running smoothly. But not much to tell about London yet, only arrived last night, very late after a 25hour slog from China.
Caught up with Dave Powles and Helen, going to catch up tonight for a few drinks which should be cool. Off to Duncan and Leytons place very soon.
Right, will update with something a lot more interesting later on.
Cheers
Ben
Elderstatesman Tour
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Super Happy fun time Asian Adventure
Nee-Hao from Dawa bay, southern china. Or as the expats call it......." the armpit of China" for very obvious reason.
We are currently staying with Bens Mum & Step dad in this far flung region of China as far away off the beaten tourist track as you are ever likely to get, which in a funny way is part of it's unique charm . It's so far flung we only have 1 KFC in the whole town.
Well team duChats & I have been away now for over a week and half so I guess it's time to inform you all that:
A) we are still alive and
B) we are not in jail.
Mum and dad you can stop reading now (if you haven't already)
Before I delve into many of our wondrous tails from the east, Ben & I would like to make a solemn promise to you our friends & family. We promise to write meaningful blogs from a slightly satirical and cynical elder-statesmans perspective. Therefore in the upcoming years you will not see outlandish statements such as things like this is the best thing I have ever done ever.., or this place is the most awesome place on earth, nor will you hear inane dribble about meaningless subjects or about people that you either
a) don't know or
b) don't care about.
Hopefully our emails will enlighten and inform.
Now that I have got that off my chest.......the tour started with Me, Scuzza & Clumpfoot going to the best postoffice in the world........
The journey of self discovery? scrub that. The elder-statesmans world tour started in Hong Kong. The best way to describe this place is the city of smells (unfortunate for us only 10% being pleasant). This place is like "Howick on speed ". Those who have been here would agree that place is very westernized. Everything is done at a million miles per hour to the point where are tour bus drove past this bum living on the side of the road in the trees talking on his Cell phone? We did all the main touristly things as you do , but we were pretty glad to move on to the slower pace of China.
After a couple of days to First stop was up north to the capital Beijing to see the likes of the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square the forbidden city and more temples ,palaces and markets than you could shake a chop stick at. Unfortunately the night life didn't match the fantastic day time sights and duChats and I, out of pure boredom (& drunkenness it has to be said) ended up hijacking the stage at some bar and singing the worst rendition off Ice Ice Baby, Hotel California and The national athem until we mercyifully threw ourselves out of the bar. Although One Asian guy wanted to know if he could buy my CD. Such a polite race of people.
From there we worked are way into central China to a place called Xian to see the unofficial 9th wonder of the world, the terricotta warriors as well as many more temples and palaces. We were also luckily to see the 10th wonder of the world Utter Chinese incompetence. Myself & Ben after buying some DVD's (of dubious origin's it must be said), we requested the hotel to send up a DVD player to view these purchases on. We then sat in utter amusement as 10 people over a 2 and a half hour period, firstly couldn't work out how to plug it in and secondly that the thing was clearly broken.
Anyway guys it's time to wrap this thing up. Ben and I move on to old blighty on Thursday so if you are over there brace yourself.............(for some super boring yarns)
Otherwise where ever you are in the world
Steve
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Twas the Night Before
Start you engines people. The Elder statesman tour is coming to a town near you. Lock up you daughters, pets and the elderly, Harbott and duChats are all set for tour kickoff tomorrow morning. We are off to Hong Kong for the first pitstop of our journey. Some call it a journey of self discovery, but I believe that has all ready been covered in our youth. So for lack of a better term, moving forward we will call it a Voyage, a mighty Voyage to the corners of this earth....Sorry am getting a bit excited.So we bid farewell to our friends and family, say good bye to the neighbor I never really knew, a wave to Apu at the dairy, maybe even a high five with the postie. One things for sure, The profits at the Copper Room (in Takapuna) will plummet.... the DB and Lion lads won't have to hide there 'Anonymous' Sales rep (AKA Doughnut King) from their managers anymore....and the cabbies will once again be safe. Yeah, i'd say things are looking up for Auckland....
Buggar it.......Exit NZ stage left. See you in a few years.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
The Elder Statesman Tour 2005
Well it has finally been done folk's, I have booked (And Paid for) my ticket to Europe. My self and Steveo are off on the 15th September to Dublin, via China and London. Some people said it would never happen, some have doubted our intentions.....mark this day down my friends!!
The plan is to have 2 weeks in China (via Hong Kong) to visit my Mum. She will take us on a tiki tour of China, Great wall etc. Then off to London for a few days, before flying out to Dublin on the 4th October to set up shop for a while.
So the next few weeks will involve just getting things together and waiting to go, not to mention plenty of 'Going' away drinks. I can't subscribe to the quiet time before my travel, need to catch up with people before I go, whether or not they want to is a whole other story.
I spouse this is really where the 'blog' will come into to a more regular role, as I travel around the world and relay my stories on this site.
I will update in a few days with actual dates etc. Also need to get a list of people who are overseas, and where they are located....never know when you will need a couch for the night.
Cheers
Ben
The plan is to have 2 weeks in China (via Hong Kong) to visit my Mum. She will take us on a tiki tour of China, Great wall etc. Then off to London for a few days, before flying out to Dublin on the 4th October to set up shop for a while.
So the next few weeks will involve just getting things together and waiting to go, not to mention plenty of 'Going' away drinks. I can't subscribe to the quiet time before my travel, need to catch up with people before I go, whether or not they want to is a whole other story.
I spouse this is really where the 'blog' will come into to a more regular role, as I travel around the world and relay my stories on this site.
I will update in a few days with actual dates etc. Also need to get a list of people who are overseas, and where they are located....never know when you will need a couch for the night.
Cheers
Ben
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Globetrotter Final Party
Hi All,
Just a quick thanks to those people that showed on Saturday night. Hope you all had a great time, I know that Steve, JB and myself had a brilliant time. Although i can't speak for our laundry dept, which is now minus a 'rented' Washing machine. It turned out to be quite a late one, they last people leaving at around 5am. Not to bad i thought. As for clean up, not the easiest, but I'll take this opportunity to thank all those kind and dear friends who came over to help with the clean up, so as per, thanks to no one. Even one of the flatmates struggled to push a broom around...haha.
Anyway, below is a link to the photos i have put on line, please have a look, and feel free to post comments. Sorry about the 'Arty' light show on some of them, but in all fairness operating a camera when in that state ain't that easy.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/benduchateau/sets/640189/
Also if anyone has photos from this event, or any others it would be good to get them off people. Just email me back.
Note: The presentation can be put on CD if anyone wants . Just send 3 payments of $39.95 to the globetrotter, and we will mail it out to you with a bonus free couch .
Cheers
Ben
Just a quick thanks to those people that showed on Saturday night. Hope you all had a great time, I know that Steve, JB and myself had a brilliant time. Although i can't speak for our laundry dept, which is now minus a 'rented' Washing machine. It turned out to be quite a late one, they last people leaving at around 5am. Not to bad i thought. As for clean up, not the easiest, but I'll take this opportunity to thank all those kind and dear friends who came over to help with the clean up, so as per, thanks to no one. Even one of the flatmates struggled to push a broom around...haha.
Anyway, below is a link to the photos i have put on line, please have a look, and feel free to post comments. Sorry about the 'Arty' light show on some of them, but in all fairness operating a camera when in that state ain't that easy.
http://www.flickr.com/photos
Also if anyone has photos from this event, or any others it would be good to get them off people. Just email me back.
Note: The presentation can be put on CD if anyone wants . Just send 3 payments of $39.95 to the globetrotter, and we will mail it out to you with a bonus free couch .
Cheers
Ben
Welcome
Hi All,
Welcome to my first ever blog. This may come as a suprise to most who know me, for I am regarded as a bit of a geek within my circle of friends. So it has taken me some time to catch onto this little phenomenon. But none the less I have leaped into the online world.
This blog will be used as I set off to travel the world within the next 2 months. So keep watching this space.......
Welcome to my first ever blog. This may come as a suprise to most who know me, for I am regarded as a bit of a geek within my circle of friends. So it has taken me some time to catch onto this little phenomenon. But none the less I have leaped into the online world.
This blog will be used as I set off to travel the world within the next 2 months. So keep watching this space.......
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