LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION

A Palmerston North man has once again clarified that his hometown is “actually pretty central to everything, ay,” during a routine conversation that did not require clarification.

Jason Reid, 34, made the comments after a colleague suggested meeting in Wellington.

“People forget Palmy’s right in the middle,” Reid said. “Two hours to Wellington. Couple to Napier. Not far to New Plymouth. It’s basically the hub.”

Reid confirmed he often finds himself explaining the geography.

“Everyone thinks it’s just cows and wind. But it’s strategic. You can get anywhere.”

The Palmerston North local said the city’s centrality is underrated, ignoring his own main point which is essentially it’s a great place to leave to go somewhere else.

“We’re not trying to be flashy like Auckland. We’re just sensible. You want to go somewhere? Sweet as. It’s pretty central.”

A former university flatmate, now based in Auckland, said Reid has been delivering variations of the same speech since 2011.

“He used to draw imaginary maps in the air,” the flatmate recalled. “You’d just nod until he finished.”

Reid maintains the reputation issue is overblown.

“Look, I’m not saying it’s the capital. I’m just saying location wise, we’re hard to beat.”

Reid cut the interview short after having the sudden urge to calculate travel times to three separate cities no one had mentioned.

More to come. 

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OH, THOSE BIG CITY LIGHTS

One long-term Palmy resident is rubbing his eyes today, as he tries to recover from a dazzling trip to the far north metropolis of Hamilton.

David ‘Dave-o’ McGregor, 19, could not believe his luck when his employer secured a contract for a big job on a Hamilton office redevelopment. He was first to put his hand up for the three week stint in the ‘Tron, and was in shock when the boss said ‘yes’.

“Mate. It was my first time outta Palmy and I gotta tell ya, it’s a different world up there.”

When asked to recount some of the highlights from his trip, McGregor pointed to the prevalence of high profile fast food chains like Taco Bell, and the fact that Hamiltonians appeared to stay up well past 9pm. 

Life in Kirikiriroa, it seemed, worked to a different schedule.

“Honestly mate, we’d clock off at 4 and the sparkies would have us down at this place they called a gastropub. I dunno how to describe it, it’s like beer and more…Then all the missuses show up and take us out for cocktails!”

McGregor likened the northern excursion trip to a European Contiki tour that his cousin Damo did back in 2009.

“Damo says in Spain they’re just up all night and drinking wine and stuff. Like, we didn’t have wine and it wasn’t all night but those places were serving drinks till about 10.”

With the office refurb now complete, it’s time for McGregor to return to normal life back in heart of the Manawatu. When asked how he’s recovering, McGregor said he was looking forward to the long weekend. 

“I think I’m still a bit jet lagged so I’ll probs just do a siesta all day Monday.”

More to come.

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TAKING BACK THE NARRATIVE

In response to recent reports of the Spain Women’s football team leaving their base in Palmerston North during the Women’s World Cup, citing boredom with the city, the Mayor of Palmerston North has dusted off the old adage that the city may be perceived as boring but remains a great place to raise a family.

The news of the Spanish team’s early departure from Palmy due to boredom has garnered mixed reactions from the city’s residents. While some are surprised that the city’s lack of excitement has become a talking point on the international stage, others are more understanding of the athletes’ point of view.

“It’s no secret that Palmerston North isn’t exactly a bustling metropolis,” said Sarah Wilson, a long-time resident of the city. “But what it lacks in glitz and glamour, it makes up for in its family-friendly environment. It’s a safe and peaceful place to raise children.”

Indeed, the city of Palmerston North, nestled in the heart of the North Island, is known for its tranquillity and family-oriented atmosphere. With a population of around 90,000, it offers a slower pace of life compared to larger urban centres, which appeals to many families seeking a peaceful and stable environment.

“We might not have the flashy attractions of big cities, but we have a strong sense of community here,” said James Mitchell, a local business owner and father of two. “There are plenty of parks, schools, and family-friendly activities to enjoy. It’s an ideal place for kids to grow up.”

The Mayor of Palmerston North, Grant Smith, acknowledged the city’s reputation but stressed that it should be viewed in the context of its suitability for raising a family.

“While we respect the opinions of visitors, including the Spanish football team, we need to remember that Palmerston North’s appeal lies in its focus on providing a safe and nurturing environment for families,” Mayor Smith stated. “We might not have the flashy entertainment of larger cities, but we have a strong community spirit and a range of family-centric amenities.”

Smith further emphasised the city’s efforts to invest in recreational facilities, educational institutions, and community programs designed to cater to the needs of families and young children.

“For those looking for a dynamic nightlife or fast-paced entertainment, Palmerston North might not be the perfect fit,” Mayor Jones added. “But for those who prioritise a stable, family-oriented lifestyle, we believe our city offers a unique and welcoming environment.”

More to come. 

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The post Palmerston North Mayor Dusts Off The Old “Great Place To Raise A Family” Line appeared first on The Whakataki Times.