patches

Although I have little-to-no space in my garage for woodwork so most of it happens outside, I've still been pondering dust control options. As most of y tools are mobile, and I've been slowly switching out to the battery version where I can, I decided to go with one of Makita's little 15L 36V (2x 18V) L-class HEPA filter dust extractors. Managed to get a barely used DVC154L for about half of new price. What's pretty cool about the DVC154 (and newer DVC157) model is the addition of Makita's AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System). Bluetooth control that automatically turns the dust extractor on and off based on the use of the tool it's connected to. Currently I only own 1 AWS enabled too (Makita Track Saw), but this new gadget/gimmick has me eyeing out the Makita 305mm 36V AWS mitre saw ???? (although at nearly R20,000 equiv for the kit, I may just hold off for a while) In a world where money is no object I'd totally go for the Festool equivalents. I hear their dust extractors are class leading. But for now I'll give this little Makita one a go and see how it does.

Potentially just messes with our usual December Sydney trip. Didn't have any other big adventures planned. This morning on the breakfast show they were interviewing a kiwi woman on a long holiday in Italy (and other parts of Europe) who was complaining about the MIQ process to the point that she has engaged the services of a human rights lawyer to help file a case against the NZ government. She whinges on about MIQ denying her the right to return to her country of citizenship. Whilst spots are limited and the booking system does have flaws, she is not denied the right to return, and touting the phrase "violation of human rights" is a pretty serious allegation. I'm not sure what her objective was but she just came across as entitled and selfish.

When I first moved over I went all out and got a Thule setup with a Sidearm XT rack, as I liked the idea of having a rack that only makes contact with the tyres. Considering at the time I lived in the Port Hills (so trails were a 2km ride away) and was massively distracted by riding dirt bikes, it was an overkill and waste of money ???? Nowadays I don't even have a car (share my wife's little VW Polo) so I just have a simple little boot clip-on from Torpedo 7 . Mostly use it with 1 - 2 big bikes on it. Have used it with 3, but gets a bit cluttered. These are the most popular types of rack in IN for those with towbars Been on 4hr drives, 3 bikes up on one of those, simply held on with some EZ grip bungies and no problems.

Definitely growing! With the majority of riders leaning heavily towards trail riding, and having eBike categories available on enduro races for those that are competitive, there's definitely a market. Retailers have responded by making many options available. Recently Torpedo7 (large adventure sports and camping retail chain) even started selling Intense MTBs (typically considered a "boutique brand"), and they are pushing the Intense eBIke range. Many retailers couldn't keep up with eBike demand last year, with much of the incoming stock being sold/accounted for before it even arrived. Plenty of eBikes to be seen on the trails at Woodhill. I envy them as I hear that electric whirr-and whine come past me on the long winding climbs. I won't lie, I wouldn't mind a Trek Rail 9 or the like, but at over $11,000 they're still too rich for my blood.

Yeah, he has some great vids. First one I saw of his was how to make an MFT style workbench using the UJK Parf Guide setup. Went down a youtube rabit-hole and next thing I'm watching him attempting to cut dovetails in under 3min.

I'm guessing Rally bikes use upswept exhausts for a few reasons. Low slung fuel tanks being one. Ease of access for repairs, replacements, or maintenance is also a big deal on rally bikes so having an exhaust header that is out of the way makes life easier (the moto malle guys & gals I'm sure are especially thankful). Those who have worked on a Husky (or KTM) dirt bike will know the hassle of removing a rear shock, It either requires some insane contortion & jenga skills with the exhaust header partially removed, or one has to drop out the swingarm to completely remove the exhaust header so that the rear-shock can squeeze past. I recall watching a Youtube vid of a privateer showing how he was converting his Yamaha WR450 to a Dakar racing machine. An exhaust reroute was one of the mods made. I think it was to allow for larger tanks (front and rear) But then I guess Husky 701's and KTM 690's share some traits (trellis frames and rear mounted fuel tanks) with their leaner-meaner brothers, yet they run a more MX-style exhaust routing. And some of the aftermarket rally kits (like the Omega, for rally-fying Husky 701's) allow the standard exhaust to remain in place, despite the addition of low-slung front mounted fuel tanks. So yeah, I guess serviceability is the name of the game. Either way, at the price of a rally bike I'd imagine they have done all their homework and have their reasons, whether I understand them or not ps. personally I like the look of the upswept pipe on a rally bike.

I think Mucky Nutz were one of the fist companies to make these style fenders. I remember seeing them on a French Alps DH trip in 2012 for 10 Euro (which seemed ridiculous for what it was), On a subsequent Alps trip (2014) we decided to buy 1 and use it as a template to cut out some copies from cheap plastic chopping boards (almost the same material). We used them on the front and back of our DH bikes. We underestimated the mud. Rear mud guard didn't last much past day 1. got so caked up that it ripped through the cable-tie holes and flew off into the countryside. My legs 1/2 day into the trip. (me foolishly thinking that despite the water the ground underneath was settled, semi-firm, and ridable)

So this weekend was a bit of a bust. The timber shortage (particularly the pink treated framing timber) meant that despite "my apprentices" checking 3 suppliers, we couldn't get the materials needed to build the wall. However, they were amped to build something, after all, half my garage was transported all the way to "site". So we bought some treated fencing timber, sketched a quick concept for an outdoor braai area, and commenced making sawdust and noise. The appies hard at work (under supervision). Plumber butt-blurred for your protection. The Concept. Pine framing, to be clad with decking kwila (all treated). Cladding to extend up fence, and down to pavers. Left side of benchtop to be removable to reveal hidden Weber BabyQ. Right and left sides to have kwila-clad cupboard doors. Not sure how it'll turn out, as I packed up my tools and left them to carry on with a circular saw, drill, hammer and nails. I think they'll miss the framing nailer the most, haha!

Hmm that's a tough one, I'd be inclined to sell and go for a 130-140mm trail bike, but in reality if you still want to ride XCM type rides, you can find them. XC bike in the Chch Christchurch itself is flat. I mean pancake flat. And the City Council has been spending a lot of time and money into developing the cycleways. So commuting could very much be on the cards. However, I know it's unlikely you'll plan to use that Spez Epic for commuting, so consider a commuter an n+1 you may want to acquire this end. Loads of new options available, and many also find joy in reviving 20yr old hardtail MTB's (like Giant Boulders) to kit out for commuting. Hagley park is another factor. There are some awesome walking and cycling paths in the 165 hectare park. Great place to spend time with the family. A hardcore XC bike is an overkill for that too, but it is somewhere one could clock up miles if they wanted to do laps. The Outskirts The surrounds of Christchurch are less flat... as in not at all. The Port Hills, (within 5km of the CBD) have some amazing trails. There's Victoria Park and the Christchurch Adventure Park, which have the more adrenaline inducing tech trails. Then there's the Crater Rim, which is where an XC bike would probably make the most sense, although the majority of riders do this on 130 - 160mm bikes. There's also Bottle Lake Forest and McLean's Island. These too would cater well to XC bikes, but no real advantage to having one there unless you're strava hunting. Further Afield The Canterbury Plains share a similar topography to Christchurch and there are no shortage of dirt roads in the region. These are relatively featureless though and gravel/cyclocross bikes will do the job. Hamner Springs is a great day/overnight/weekend trip (approx 1hr45 from Chch). Plenty of trails in the forestry blocks there. Some big climbs, too! Another place an XC bike could shine. Some of the descending trails are rather technical though, so an extra 30-40mm travel may be appreciated there. Then there are trips to the MTB mecca's like Nelson, Rotorua and Queenstown. For these, I'd say 140mm+. Majority of riders will be on 150-160mm bikes. Multi-Day Adventures The Alps to Ocean is a very popular cycle trail a and one I regret not doing when living on the South Island. It's basically a gravel path running from Mt Cook to Oamaru. Perfect for XC bike. Paparoa track is one of the newest Great Walks, within half a days drive form Chch. This Great Walk is bike friendly and with an estimated 2day trip (one way). They do however grade it a "4: Advanced". That'll be conservative, but when I was camping in the region, all the rioders I saw completing it were on Trail/Enduro type bikes. Summary In conclusion you can ride whatever you want to ride wherever. That's the beauty of it! It's about what you enjoy and what you want to get out of it. However, there are some realities, such as: General level of trail technicality is above that of SA Market for used XC bikes here is WAY smaller than SA, so if you do decide to sell, you'll have better luck before you leave. NZ seems less event focused (or maybe I'm just not aware). But things like Nissan trail Seekers aren't a thing (or big thing) so people ride mostly for fun and ride fun bikes. Your daughter has some good insight there... do you really want to ride a bike that's different from the other kids? ???? (there's a reason the majority ride trail bikes) But hey, definitely take my ramblings with a pinch of salt. I did Sani2C on a 160mm enduro bike with flat pedals, so I'm not always the smartest ????

As previously mentioned, my move over to NZ was very light on the luggage side (but being a single lad did assist that). I also never shipped any containers etc. Here are some of my take aways... Flying with a bike... Yup! Easy as (kiwi speak for "no worries")! I had 5 bikes in SA. I planned on taking 3 to NZ, Sold the other 2. I cleaned and packed all 3 into boxes before I left, but was only taking 1 with me on the initial flight. Stored the other 2 boxed bikes at my Mom's house. Went and retrieved a 2nd one 2 years later on a visit, but decided to sell the 3rd during that trip as life in NZ made me realise I really didn't need it. Also worth considering when flying with bikes to NZ Boxes are the lightest packaging option (I tell myself that each time I'm tempted to buy a flashy Evoc bike bag ???? ) Clean bikes thoroughly beforehand, specially MTBs. Biosecurity will see a bike box/bag, ask if its an MTB, and likely want to inspect. With mine they even checked the seatpost tube. In terms of MTBs, NZ is very trail/enduro focused. So if you have to choose between an XC and a trail/enduro bike, you'll probably get more use out of the latter. My 3 boxed bikes were a downhill, Enduro, and slopestyle/4X bike. I flew with the enduro. Retrieved the 4X (as it's 1 of only 2 in existence) and sold the DH bike. Excess Luggage... As I flew with a bike and was relocating my life with what I could carry including 1 bike, I needed some excess luggage for the flight over. I flew Qantas (most direct route. JHB-SYD-CHC, 18hrs total). I priced excess luggage and ticket options and this was the outcome (keeping in mind this was in March 2016, and I booked the flights only a week out form my departure due to visa delays) 1 way flight to JHB to Christchurch = approx R10,000 (Return flight was around R12,500) 20kg Excess baggage (to allow for the bike) = approx R8,000 1 way Premium Economy ticket, which included: 2nd 23kg bag, 2nd 7kg hand luggage, better seats, business lounge access in Sydney as the SYD-CHC flight was Business class (no Premium economy on that route at the time) = approx R20,000 So I went with the Premium Economy option as I had no planned time frame to return for a visit. This was the sum total of my luggage: Side Note: Christchurch Airport has a bike assembly station with tools, pump etc, right outside the front doors, for those that fly in and want to build bikes right away to get on some trails. So in summary, yes I took 1 bike (and another later). I also left a bunch behind. No real regrets at leaving the others behind due to: Less time riding as I explored and experienced the new adventure (plus no riding buddies or "Spruit". That said, Chch has PLENTY of easily accessible trails). Limited space in my first rental The acquisition of a dirt bike (so got lazy) Acquisition of a new MTB in NZ (Many options here, so many sales too, plus MTBs are constantly evolving/improving so no use crying over the 5yr old bikes I left behind). Different focuses in life. Still love riding, but hobby-whored myself to a whole lot of new things since being here. Hope that helps

Fenix 6 Pro's have just gone on sale here in NZ. Many retailers selling them for 640 NZD (about R6400), usually they're around 1200 NZD. I'm so damn tempted to upgrade my trusty Fenix 3 (about 7yrs old), but in reality I don't strava or use a fraction of its functions. Talk me outta it!

Saw Kris Faafoi (Minister of Immigration) on the TV this morning getting some flak from John Campbell. His responses were wishy-washy and inconclusive. He acknowledged NZ's dependency on migrant labour (skilled and unskilled), but there's no plan to better address the 12,000+ Skilled Migrant Visa Expressions of Interest from applicant currently in NZ! Yes, that's right, that doesn't even account for the people stuck outside NZ trying to get things sorted. Also worth keeping in mind is that the applicants on shore pose ZERO covid risk. He cited a lack of capacity in processing these EOI's and attributed it to the increase in critical purpose visas. But with the suspension of Parental Resident and many other visa classes, the overall volume of applications is surely less than pre-covid, so any lack of capacity is an issue on the ministry's end. INZ is a shambles and the leadership are a bunch of wet blankets. *Rant over*

This is the composition we'll be going for. Instead of the regular pink bats, we'll use the Silencer version, which I believe are more dense. The 2 layers are plasterboard are offset by 600mm. only the outer later is taped and plastered. Autex will then be added to the inside of the room Not going t be a cheap exercise, but it's not my money

Indeed. Hence what has led me from tool lending to active involvement in the project, haha! Initially I was asked for "a saw, nail gun and laser level". No specification on what type of saw or nail gun. Also the assumption that there is only 1 type of nail gun which they also planned to use for hanging drywall... scary thought using 90mm framing nails to attach brittle drywall to timber ???? So with my revised role from Tool Supplier to Project Manager/Lead Designer/Main Contractor, I vetted the tool list and the "saw, nail gun and laser level" list was expanded out to the following: 15Ga Nailer, laser level, tool belt (with basics, pliers, pencils, screwdrivers, etc) Screw gun, electric hand plane, collated screws, nails for nail guns Drill, impact driver, oscillating multi-tool, and more basics (stud finders, framing squares etc) Hand tools, including chisels, hammers, mallets, clamps, etc. Circular saw, jig saw, 18Ga nail gun, batteries, chargers, extension cords, spare blades. Trim router, attachments and bits Track saw and more batteries Framing nailer, charger and battery Mitre saw and stand (which I may not be able to fit into my car) Not shown are the spirit levels, tripods, saw horses, track saw tracks, and working platforms. I know I'm probably over-killing this, but having the right tool on hand for a job makes life so much easier!

Had this happen on a brand new Stans Neo hub. Managed to find the pawls but lost the spacer washer. Notubes (Stans) sell all manner of spares and ship globally, so I bought said spacer and some spare pawls just in case. Here are the Neo Pawl kits https://www.notubes.com/kit-neo-spring-and-pawl-6pc First prize is to get the specific spares. Second is a replacement free-hub body.

Thank goodness for the age of Google or I'd be in trouble! There are a number of ways that Gib (plasterboard systems) recommend doing it. The most effective involves 2 parallel stud walls (not touching), both with sound insulation on the inside and double layers of Noiseline Gib on the outsides. The simpler way and what I'll be going for is a single wall with the noise reducing insulation, double layer noiseline Gib on the outsides, and Autex sound control textile over that. The door is going to be the biggest challenge. With the wall being wider thanks to the dual lining, we may go for 2 solid core door leaves, joined to the same jambs/frame, but opening in butterfly fashion. Anyway project may have it's first hitch... Timber stocks at my local are not looking good!

So what was initially a potential "I may need to borrow some tools" has materialised into an actual project, requiring said tools. Still reluctant to loan out my tools, I have offered my assistance with the task. The construction of a noise insulated, timber framed partition wall in a garage (as a mini sound studio). When discussing the project with the requester, I have confirmed that they know even less about building than I originally thought. Multiple short-cuts or hacks have been proposed and I keep rejecting each one. If I'm going to be involved and my tools are going to be used, I will do it to the best of my ability. I know I'm no master-builder, but I have some experience in building my own walls and installing Gib (plasterboard). I also research as much as I can on methods, techniques, and best practice (thanks Scott Brown and Mitre10 man). Additionally I have familiarised myself with the NZ timber framing standards and the Gib noise control wall installation manual. The stickler in me shudders to think what may have transpired ???? Anyway, watch this space as it will likely be the outlet I use to share my success or vent my frustration

Local community "farmers" markets are really popular. Matakana, Clevedon, Avondale, and the French Market (Parnell) are popular ones in and around Auckland. In Christchurch your best bet will be the Riccarton farmers market. There are likely others, especially as you explore areas like Oxford, Sheffield etc (great pie shops there BTW). Kiwis love the locally sourced, home grown, organic, artisanal ethos, so finding produce meeting those criteria shouldn't be too hard. As for growing your own, we grow some veggies and herbs in planter boxes on our deck. Zucchini, eggplant, snap peas, etc. A number of people I know grow their own stuff too. As I'm guessing you'll be renting when your first move over, you'll likely have to check with the landlord if it's ok. Good thing is, in Christchurch you're likely to find rentals with more space for cheaper than in Auckland. Another option is community gardens. There are a few in Christchurch. If I recall correctly even some on the red zone (where earthquake damaged houses were removed and nature reclaimed the land). Some are also used as community support or education for those with mental or psychological challenges.

The bad... it's no secret that groceries in NZ are significantly more expensive when compared to Aus (won't even try compare to SA). Just look at current prices of produce like cucumbers (around $6ea) and red peppers (around $4ea). So it's no surprise that some of the wealthiest kiwis are supermarket owners. The owner of my local Pak n Save is reportedly worth over $60M. On the positive side, the alarm bells have been ringing and the Commerce Commission has released their draft findings. The just of it is that NZ is at the mercy of a duopoly, Foodstuffs and Woolworths (formerly Progressive Foods, and no relation to Woolies in SA). I guess the challenge is, who is willing to step in to even things out? I believe Aldi isn't interested (that would have been my preference. Love the magic that can be found in that middle aisle). Perhaps Coles might be on the cards?

Yeah, I figured with the current situation they would whisk you away to your hotel without seeing much of the airport. Not to fear though. Wayne sounds like he has you sorted, plus I believe one can do certain online shopping (like from Countdown supermarket) and the MIQ staff will get it to you. With the absence RICA requirements, buying a sim from a supermarket should get one up and running. If you're at the Novatel or Sudima then then the staff may even organise supply runs to Countdown for you (it's like 200m down the road from those hotels).

Currently/recently on the playlist... My solo playlist... https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7660850/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Edgy drama, similar to House of Cards or The Morning Show. Binge watched both seasons. Awesome show, can highly recommend. with the Misses playlist... https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4051832/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1 Watched this one with the wife. Funny British romantic comedy, not unlike Trying (previously mentioned) One the bus playlist... https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8910922/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0 Similar style and humour to Rick & Morty (which I also love).

What Wayne said. There is literally a Spark stand outside the International Arrivals doors at Christchurch Airport (although you will be taken a different way). But yeah, when I first landed (at around 11:30pm) I walked up to the Spark stall. Asked to buy a Pay-as-you-go sim-card. Ended up taking out a phone contract (based on data rates, free Spotify Premium, and the ability to add 200min/country of international calling for just $10pm). Only thing they needed was my passport an job offer (which stated my salary), if I recall correctly. No 3 months bank statements, No Proof of Residence. It's super simple here. The idea is, it's up to you to pay. If you don't pay, they stop service. Kiwis are so trusting, haha! But yeah, super easy to get sim cards. Contracts too. The one thing they do differently here is sell the contract separately from the phone.

Exciting times! It's no secret that I'm a fan of Christchurch, and the city has come a long way since I moved there over 5 years ago. Sounds like a whirlwind of a process, but kudos for pulling it off, especially in light of current events. Feel free to PM if you have any questions about Chch, areas, schools, etc.

Yeah, the adjustment can be daunting. But the old adage is true... change is the only constant in life, and when one thinks about it, SA has been changing (at a pretty rapid rate), so even the choice of staying/"no change" subjects one to change. The main differences are that one is relatively powerless over those changes and lately/sadly most of those changes have been for the worse. But I get it. Those family who are so close become one of the more constants/anchors to weather the storms. So does lifestyle, comfort, familiarity and experience. We all have varying levels of "itchy feet". Some can't stay in a place for more than 2yrs. Others don't even like going away on holidays. Emigration isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, and there are definitely compromises involved. I was thinking about something a while ago (in connection with a friend who also had concerns about venturing into the unknown). I suggested they think of it like a secondment of sorts. Not uncommon when climbing corporate ladders, and a compromise between the parties that want to experience new things and those that are worried about the permanence of emigrating. So the idea was to move over. Try it for 2 years/long enough to get permanent residency (so the ability to go back to NZ anytime in the future). That time should also allow one long enough to adjust to the new lifestyle (ride the wave of highs and lows) as well as get established career wise. Then if one wants to return to SA, they will generally be in a better position, whether that be financially (from a better salary market) or employability (from gaining overseas experience, not unlike a regular secondment), Anyway, internet forum advice is free, and that's about what it's worth ???? But 2-3 years go quicker than one thinks. Ask anyone who has lived here for that long.

my dream bike, just standing there taunting me... ...dammit, oneday when I'm big I'll get that EE 5! The 450 Rally is alright too, I guess ????