Filipino Communities in New Zealand held their annual  Philippine Independence  celebration in Lower Hutt, last June 6, the event showcase Philippine culture through dance,games and different foods.

I was lucky to be part of this event and I’m very thankful with the organizer and to the Philippine Embassy in Wellington.

The celebration started with a morning Mass at the Horticulture Hall and then a Filipino Traditional games.

In the afternoon, a cultural  show was held  and hosted by Miss Saigon NZ Ivy Rose Padilla and Joel Sison.

The festival is to commorate Philippine declaration of independence by establishing the First republic in South east by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12,1898

Philippines Ambassador to New Zealand Dr. Bienvenido Tejano officially opened the festival.

Many Filipinos  comes to the event for different reasons for friends or watching  performances from the young artists.

Younger generation can connect to the cultures by watching cultures performance like the New Zealand Filifest Dance Group, Philippines Central Association of Palmeston North,Mabuhay Association,Inc, the Young Ones, Himig Kawayan of the Philippines, Hiyas Wellington Cultural Group and joined some traditional games such as sack race.

A song number from Ms Ivy Padilla of Ms Saigon NZ and hip-hop dance performance by Arize Dance crew of the spring of life fellowship.

This event achieved to connects young Filipino-New Zealanders to their cultures and strengthens identity and pride as Filipino-kiwi..

The highlight of the programme was a speech by Ambassafor Bienvenido Tejano As late Binigno Aquino, said "Filipino are worth dying for".

You can check some photos at my multiply page or video throughTheSidestrip

Over the weekend as my family celebrates the 5th birthday of my daughter,we went to the Wellington Aero Club Open Day which my kids enjoyed.

The open day started around 11AM up to 4PM  and hundred of people are pretty much  excited to see some of the vintage Aircraft that was used during World War 2.

Below, The PBY –5A Catalina is one of the favourite  attraction , the only active WWII flying boat left flying in the World.

According to Catalina Club of New Zealand. Catalina played a very important part in New Zealand’s and other Commonwealth countries military history.

The Royal New Zealand Air Force at one stage during WWII operated 56 Catalinas in the Pacific Theatre. During the late 1980s this Catalina featured in an award winning BBC documentary  titiled “The Las African Flying Boat”, which screened extensively worldwide.

Aside from Catalina, more than 10 Aircraft such as the famous Red Checkers are parked inside the Wellington Aero Club Hanger. The even was very successful till next year.

Our friend from Wellington International Airport Louise Murray just sent me an email regarding the plans to erect a Hollywood-style sign on the Miramar peninsula celebrating the location of the heart of New Zealand’s burgeoning film industry, "Wellywood".

"Wellington Airport is a big supporter of the capital’s film industry. It’s a relationship that has steadily grown since the industry began to flourish around 17 years ago. "Convenient and affordable air links have enabled the world-beating Peter Jackson and Weta group of companies to reach the rest of the world," said Steve Fitzgerald, Wellington Airport CEO.

The Airport is part of the film industry’s essential infrastructure; an international gateway for passengers and freight that the Miramar crew can quickly and easily access. And it works both ways; "a well-functioning, well-designed and conveniently located airport helps convey a sense of reassurance to creative professionals who venture to the other side of the world to make movies in Wellington," he added.

No fewer than seven film-related companies are based on the Miramar peninsula, led by Weta’s diverse range of creative and technically excellent production workshops and studios.

The film industry’s direct spend into Wellington’s economy is estimated at $285 million per annum1. "Wellywood will be rightfully recognised for what it is – an extraordinary contributor to Wellington’s identity, its economy, and more recently to its tourism industry," said Mayor of Wellington Kerry Prendergast.

"The sign will be one of the first things people will see when they arrive in Wellington. They will be left in no doubt that this is the heart and soul of New Zealand’s film industry, and that the city is proud of its amazing achievements."

Wellywood is an emerging tourist attraction. Film tours taking in the Miramar film enclave are extremely popular, with around 100,000 people through the Weta Cave in the last year.

"The sign will help cement Wellywood’s place as an international tourism landmark, increasing both visitation and number of visitor nights in the capital," said Mr Fitzgerald.

The sign, erected on the airport’s land above the Miramar cutting, will measure about 28m in length, each letter 3.5m in height. Mainzeal and Beca will begin construction of the sign offsite, with final installation expected in June.

For Twenty-Four years, the New Zealand International Arts Festival bringing World Class Arts entertainment from around the World and within New Zealand.

Since 1986, each Festival has offered a bold artistic programme of the highest quality, featuring theatre, classical and world music, opera, dance, jazz, family and free events, a literary programme and the visual arts.

Last Saturday, I was able to watch “Transport Exceptionnels”,a dance duet between man and machine as part of the New Zealand International Arts Festival.

Transcending spectacle and danger, dancer Philippe Priasso is paired with a mechanical digger in this astoundingly witty exploration of the traditional "dance for two".

I would say. “ A love affairs between Man and Machine, beyond boundaries”.

Despite the intense heat, Hundred of people watched the 20 minutes show, Transports Exceptionnels follows an intimate seduction initiated by Priasso.

Dominique Boivin’s choreography expands and redefines dance tradition and the use of outdoor space and digger.

Unfortunately, Priasso, or the digger driver, don’t want to talk to a blogger but if you are from large newspapers or network I bet, they will say,”yes”.

Over-all the show was great and superb. Here are some photos you want to check or Priasso itself.

I wish I could see other performances during the festival not only the free event.

What do you think  Ms. SUSANA LEI’ATAUA?

The New Zealand International Arts Festival is a biennial multi-arts festival held in the capital city, Wellington.

The other day I was busy doing my weekend job cleaning the bathroom and then suddenly my daughter shouted:

“Porcupine!!! Porcupine!!”

So, immediately went outside  and check my daughter and yes, she right its a Porcupine.

As precautions, I wear a protective  gloves and put the Porcupine to a plastic container and then we went to the nearest SPCA office to take care of the Animal.

According to Wikipeadia, Porcupines are rodents with a coat of sharp spines, or quills, that defend them from predators.

They are indigenous in both the Old Worldand the New World. Porcupines are the third largest of the rodents, behind the capybara and the beaver.

Most porcupines are about 25–36 in (63–91 cm) long, with an 8–10 in (20–25 cm) long tail. Weighing between 12–35 lb (5.4–16 kg), they are rounded, large and slow.

A market by the Sea!! Music in the Park ,Wandering performers  and buskers and a boat rides around the Island.

That’s what happened last Sunday during the Island Bay Festival . It was pretty Good sunny day and my kids loved the event.

More than 50 stalls line up along Esplanade. The section of the roadway  between Derwent Street  and Trent St. are closed to traffic and crowded  with market stalls – from local art and crafts, fresh food , clothing ,jewelry, and ethnic goods.

On the other hand, the Marine Education Centre is a big hits, as people  are line outside  to learn about the ocean environment .

The Children love the touch pools which they can gently touch some of marine animals at the centre.

One of the exciting programme is the Big Dig.

The annual big dig has become etched in the memories of countless local children. Children dig for buried treasure (in the form of numbered tokens) in the sands of Island Bay beach.

Island Bay Playcentre runs this vibrant event, with support from the Island Bay New World Supermarket.

Tokens are buried in the sand at the crack of dawn after a team of volunteers clears and rakes a 100 square meter area of sand near the surf club. As children dig up the tokens, they then exchange the token for the corresponding prize.

Thanks Island Bay, see you next year for another fun-filled event

I always been fascinated in the process of making wine and when I thinking of wine.

The first come to my mind is the Wairarapa region which is still considered part of Wellington.

I am so glad I was able to interview Ms. Barbara Hyde, the marketing Manager of Destination Wairarapa.

She discussed to me why Wairarapa, is one of the best region in the conference industry.

Hyde said the region’s charm, fine food and wine and diverse venues make it an ideal  destination for corporate retreat or event.

“Our train service makes Wairarapa reachable in confort and with convenience. And there’s convenient travel from Auckland with the direct Air New Zealand link into Masterton”, Hyde equips.

She said Wairarapa’s diversity of activities and attractions offers plenty of choice for retreat and conference planners.

Among the gang she brought during the Wellington on Show last Thursday are :

You can check Tranzit Gourmet Escape tour options by calling 0800471227 or tranzit.co.nz

2. The Brackenridge Country  Retreat and Spa,set on 14 acres of farmland and only minutes from Martinborough Wine Village.

According to Leeann O’Neill,the Conference Coordinator, the Brackenridge can provide everything needed from a meeting for six,to a product launch for 200.

3. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Solway Park. Set in a 24 acres of landscaped parklands.

The Solway Conference Centre provides the perfect venue for any size event from 2- 500 delegates.

4. The Olivo is the oldest commercial olive grove in the region.

I’m lucky enough to talked to Ms. Helen Meehan,the owner of Olivo estate and explained to me the innovative infused Olive oils and flavours they make such as Lemon, Orange, Smoked Chilli, Porcini, Fennel and Smoked Paprika.

5. Parehua Country Estate. Located in the international acclaimed boutique wine region of Martinborough.

The estate is perfect location for executive meetings,celebrations or strategic business camps.

6. For all beer lovers, check out the Tui Brewery Headquarter is 10 minutes south of Woodville,35 min east of Palmerston North and 45 min north of Masterton.

Tui HQ Manager Ms. Jo Hirst said the HQ are open 7 days a week for beer tasting and tour.

If you want to experience all of the why not  make your tours with ZEST food tours of New Zealand.

ZEST helps conference-goers and partners explore the unique Martinborough Wine Village, Greytown and Wairarapa region in a very personal style, for groups small and large.

By the way, on March 20, 2010,a celebration of finest local wine and food – Harvest Festival.

From 11AM – 5PM spectacular Riverside setting with superb wines and fantastic local produce prepared by the region;s best Chefs.

More than 21 Hotels participated during the Wellington On Show event initiated by Positively Wellington Tourism.

Among the Hotels that I had visited is the Wellesley Boutique Hotel located at Maginnity Street in the heart of the Wellington City.

This is the first time I visited the hotel and from the moment I entered its doors I felt I was travelling in time. Settings and architectures was amazing.

The staffs are friendly and Ms. Clarice Olckers, the Hotel Function Coordinator showed me what makes the hotel   perfect setting for both business and leisure travellers.

According to Ms. Olckers,The hotel provides an ideal background for all types of functions – conference, seminars, private dinners, hospital events, social functions and wedding.

”We offer a comprehensive range of modern conferencing equipment,naturally lit rooms and a wide range of menu options”, She said.

Olckers also said rooms at the Wellesley Boutique Hotel are spacious, inviting and individual from Luxury rooms to Executive Rooms up to  the Premium rooms are superb.

The Hotel’s recently refurbished restaurant, Maginity’s, offer modern dining in an intimate setting.

Indeed, the Wellesley Boutique Hotel is one of the city’s most charming heritage buildings.

Thanks to Ms. Clarice Olckers for the opportunities to check their amazing hotel and Thank you also to  Positively Wellington tourism for a wonderful experience around Wellington City.

On February 11, The Wellington Convention Bureau will showcase Wellington to the World .

Wellington Convention Bureau Sales Manager Martin Boland says the event is designed to give locals who plan meetings and events of all kinds the opportunity to inspect venues and meet service providers on-site.

A total of 72 businesses will be represented at 42 venues during the day.

Wellington On Show is a natural progression from the successful Wellington Conference and Events Expo run by the Wellington Convention Centre each October, Mr Boland says.

“The expo gives event planners the opportunity to find out what’s available and now Wellington On Show will allow them to see and experience it, without having to schedule meetings or arrange transport.”

Free transport between key venues, including up the Wellington Cable Car, will be provided for registered participants. Over 100 people signed up within 24 hours of event details being released to industry contacts, Mr Boland says.

Wellington On Show participants can be in to win one of 36 prizes, and events throughout the day will include cooking demonstrations by Martin Bosley and Ruth Pretty, and a South American carnival at the Opera House.

Wellington On Show is being held on Thursday February 11, 10am-3pm.

Throughout the day partners will also have their own promotions and entertainment. From a Zest Food Tour to a brunch with Martin Bosley at Chaffers Dock Function Centre, there will be plenty of options on offer. Here is a list of the exhibitors showcasing themselves as well a list of special promotions running through the day.

There will be a hop on, hop off shuttle service between the key venues for those that don’t wish to walk – and it's free! Here is a map of where exhibitors are showcasing and the shuttle service operating on the day.

We know your time is valuable so with Wellington on Show you choose who you want to see and when.

Registration – it’s free and easy, so register now.

To find out more or register visit WellingtonNZ.com/OnShow.

Marking the centenary of Scott’s epic voyage to the South Pole, the Getty Images Gallery, in association with the Scott Polar Research Institute, is presenting a new photographic exhibition which will feature the work of Herbert Ponting, the photographer who accompanied the expedition.

“The Journey South” will run from 4th February until 6th March. Herbert Ponting’s beautiful and graphic photographs record the conditions faced by Robert Falcon Scott’s team of men before their final push to the pole and before tragedy ultimately struck in 1912. Ponting also captured the stark beauty of Antarctica 100 years ago, in a series of landscape shots which remain iconic and timeless to this day.

The collection provides a stirring testament to the heroism and bravery of all involved and perfectly encapsulates the spirit of adventure and discovery that marked the epic journey. The glass plate negatives from which these images are taken are preserved in the Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge.

This part of the collection is represented by Getty Images. Herbert Ponting was a self-taught photographer who spent time travelling through the Far East, photographing people and places, before joining the crew of the Terra Nova on their journey south. He recorded the difficult living conditions under which the expedition members and their animals lived and worked.

Among the incredible collection of images is a photograph entitled “The Tenements”, showing the cramped bunks in Winterquarters Hut, which made up the living conditions of the team. Another image shows Evans and Crean sitting in front of shelves stacked with boxes mending their sleeping bags whilst smoking a pipe.

Lieut Evans is also pictured observing Jupiter through a telescope in the middle of the night, whilst dressed in a balaclava and heavy overcoat. Herbert Ponting himself is also captured working in the dark room and posing with his cinematograph (the tripod mounted film camera that he used to record the voyage).

Ponting’s brief was to also satisfy the expedition’s sponsors and so the collection includes humorous, advert-like images of crew members consuming Heinz baked beans and Fry’s chocolate. In one image, an expedition member sits on two boxes marked ‘Heinz Baked Beans’, on the snow. He holds a can in one hand and a spoon in the other. Getty Images Gallery Director, Louise Garczewska said, “Ponting’s images are truly awe-inspiring.

They capture both the otherworldly beauty of the bleak Antarctic landscape as well as the spirit of excitement, discovery and unknown danger etched across the faces of these brave men. The images recorded by Ponting set down a flag in the pages of history and marked a new frontier in photography. We are proud to commemorate the courage of those involved in this legendary expedition and to celebrate Ponting’s remarkable work.”

Heather Lane, Librarian and Keeper of Collections at the Scott Polar Research Institute said, “We are pleased that Getty Images are bringing Ponting’s stunning photographs to a wider audience, particularly in this year, which marks the centenary of the start of Captain Scott’s British Antarctic Expedition, 1910-13. Ponting was the first professional photographer of the Antarctic and his work has as great an impact today as it did one hundred years ago.”