NZSDA Conference "Lost In Taradise" April 5-9, 2006




	NZSDA Conference "Lost In Taradise" April 5-9, 2006			R-World Home
	New Plymouth, New Zealand - As the Marketing and Operations Manager of Roland DG Australia and New Zealand, I jumped at the opportunity to attend the 10th annual NZSDA conference, “Lost in Taradise,” on behalf of the VISA (Visual Impact Suppliers Association) committee. Arriving in Auckland for the very first time, I was greeted in the customs hall by a troop performing the Maori Haka. Instantly, I knew I had landed in New Zealand. This started what proved to be a very exciting and adventure-filled trip. Traveling from Auckland to New Plymouth took 4 hours by car, a trip I shared with colleagues from the Roland DG New Zealand office. The scenic drive through the countryside is well worth the trip itself. On the way, we took a short side trip to view the Gloworm caves, a unique, isolated landmark a few hours from New Plymouth. Upon my arrival, I learned that the event was named after nearby Mount Taranaki, a snow capped mountain that can be seen in the distance on a clear day. I also quickly learned from proud locals that the area was the location of the recent Tom Cruise movie, “The Last Samurai.” It seemed to me that one in three locals we met over the next few days had some part in the movie!	Before I left, I had heard about the event’s great networking opportunities and its top-notch Sign and Display Awards. The actual event completely surpassed my expectations. Both local and visiting suppliers, end-users, dealers and association members attended the event, which was set in a relaxed atmosphere that effectively promoted meeting and networking opportunities. From the initial Mix n’ Mingle registration through a demonstration from a real wood turner (another “Last Samurai” extra) to the organic brewery, Mike’s Mild Ale Brewery (also a local set for “The Last Samurai”), networking opportunities abounded. At the brewery, we sampled some of the local beverages and took part in a team-building event that taught us how to construct a real North American Indian tent. The bus left the brewery and dropped us off along an ocean escarpment. Along the water, there was an open area where we viewed the beautiful sunset over the horizon and enjoyed evening drinks from the local Walau Estate winery. Dinner and dancing followed at the winery, located a short distance away. Day two started with very informative business sessions, followed by lunch and several events including golf, pool competitions and an arts & crafts tour of the area. I opted for the pool competition, but dropped out in the first round. So much for holding up the great Australian sporting green & gold!	The conference highlight was the spectacular and highly organized New Zealand Sign & Display Awards gala event. Upon arrival, visitors viewed the gallery of entries and seized the opportunity to cast last minute votes in all categories. Entries were based on 14 categories and included a variety of projects completed between March 1, 2005 and February 28, 2006. We were then whisked off to the famous Bowl of Brookland, an open air venue beautifully positioned within the grounds of the Pukekura Park in New Plymouth. The ceremony was hosted by “Mr. New Zealand” personality Bob Parker of the local TV show “This is your life.” The evening started off with a spectacular laser and light show, included a full Scottish bagpipe band to welcome guests, and ended with an amazing fireworks display. Awards were handed out throughout the event in true Hollywood style. The evening ended with a night of dancing, networking and celebrating another great year for the sign industry. The conference concluded the following day with an awe-inspiring air show, part sponsored by Roland DG New Zealand Ltd. It featured Vampire Jet “Flypast” and four YAK Aerobatic planes. At an altitude of some 3000 feet, the planes performed a number of rolls, dives and other aerobatic twists and turns in perfect synchronization – a great example of trust and teamwork, ideals that are valued by NZSDA and its members. Overall, there is only one way to sum up this conference experience: “Where do I sign up for next year’s event?”



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