The final TUANZ After 5s for 2008 wrapped up in Auckland yesterday, which spells the end of a very busy week for the TUANZ team, and serves as a reminder that in just over a month we’ll be heralding in 2009.
This month’s After 5s were hosted by Kordia and were well attended in each venue – Christchurch, Wellington, Hamilton and Auckland.
As this was my first round of After 5s, I attended each event, apart from Auckland, which, to be honest, I’m grateful for as Auckland was an ‘After 5am’ and kicked off at 7 in the morning. This is way too early for someone who is not a morning person – even if there is breakfast on offer!
I had a great time at each of the other centres. The events were an excellent opportunity to get out there and meet many of our members for the first time, and to discover what is on their minds. It was a brilliant induction into some of the issues TUANZ needs to pursue.
Perhaps spurred by Kordia’s talk of its ADSL2+ roll-out through ISP Orcon (which it bought two years ago), fibre backhauls and its bid to build a second trans-Tasman fibre cable, much of the post-presentation discussions were around the need for faster, better, and more affordable broadband.
But at times discussions veered off in a variety of directions – the most left-field was probably one about drug testing for linesmen and how some still fail tests at job interviews even after being warned that they would be tested!
While no laughing matter, this does however illustrate the rich and fascinating conversations generated at the After 5s, which explains why they remain among the best attended and top-rated events on our calendar.
So thanks to all of you who attended this month’s After 5s, as well as everyone who came along to the events during 2008.
The After 5s kick off again next year in February, with Teleware as our first hosts for 2009.
The After 5s with Teleware will start off in Christchurch on Monday, February 16 and then travel to Wellington on February 17 and Hamilton on February 18 before concluding in Auckland on February 19.
Exact venues are yet to be confirmed and registrations are yet to open, but bookmark the dates today. Visit our Events page closer to the time for more details or to register.