Career Change For Me

[rastuscat]

Career change coming up for me. Again.

Just in case anyone gives a toss.

[EJK]

Best wishes to your new career.

Is it still bike related?

[Navy Boy]

Yep - Good luck. What's prompted this then?

[Banditbandit]

Career change coming up for me. Again.

Just in case anyone gives a toss.

Of course ... what?

[rastuscat]

In summary, some people are good at being self employed contractors, and some not so much. I'm not so much.

You don't realise the benefits of being employed by someone until you don't have those benefits. Like Kiwisaver contributions. Like paid annual leave. Like having colleagues to bounce ideas off. The psycho-social aspect of work is often underrated.

Just now, if I get sick and can't work, I don't get paid. What that leads to is me going to work when I'm crook as a dog. I had to excuse myself from a client one day about a year ago so I could go and vomit, then return to continue with the lesson. That started me thinking.

Of course, there will be those who are thinking "Welcome to my world". That's okay, if that's your world and it suits you, all good. It just doesn't suit me.

So I'm running away to an hourly rate, 37.5 hours a week job where I don't have to work every weekend to earn a living.

The job isn't confirmed yet, so I won't disclose it.

It's fair to say that I'll miss the motorcycle world where I've worked part time and full time since I became a baby traffic cop in 1988. I know I'll miss the industry, it's full of awesome people.

But it's my time to move on.

[Honest Andy]

Wont you miss the flexibility of self employment? And being able to post on here whenever you like...?

;)

[HenryDorsetCase]

Career change coming up for me. Again.

Just in case anyone gives a toss.

Back door man at the Blue Oyster Bar?

[HenryDorsetCase]

In summary, some people are good at being self employed contractors, and some not so much. I'm not so much.

You don't realise the benefits of being employed by someone until you don't have those benefits. Like Kiwisaver contributions. Like paid annual leave. Like having colleagues to bounce ideas off. The psycho-social aspect of work is often underrated.

Just now, if I get sick and can't work, I don't get paid. What that leads to is me going to work when I'm crook as a dog. I had to excuse myself from a client one day about a year ago so I could go and vomit, then return to continue with the lesson. That started me thinking.

Of course, there will be those who are thinking "Welcome to my world". That's okay, if that's your world and it suits you, all good. It just doesn't suit me.

So I'm running away to an hourly rate, 37.5 hours a week job where I don't have to work every weekend to earn a living.

The job isn't confirmed yet, so I won't disclose it.

It's fair to say that I'll miss the motorcycle world where I've worked part time and full time since I became a baby traffic cop in 1988. I know I'll miss the industry, it's full of awesome people.

But it's my time to move on.

Yeah man.

I am coming up on three years at my "new" gig. I moved from being self employed to being a minion, albeit an adequately compensated one (though some days I wonder....). I really like it.

[rastuscat]

Back door man at the Blue Oyster Bar?

Bugger. Didn't see that one on Seek.

Have you moved on?

[jellywrestler]

So I'm running away to an hourly rate, 37.5 hours a week job where I don't have to work every weekend to earn a living.

so one thing, when i ask for small combo big mac please don't get into the brainwashing statement that our smallest is a medium, that pisses me off

[Coldrider]

Meh, you're going to work for Cassina.

[rastuscat]

Meh, you're going to work for Cassina.

That hourly rate would be staggering

[russd7]

That hourly rate would be staggering

onya rastus, good luck on the new venture. ya be able to get back to enjoy riding again.

[Stylo]

Are you able to teach me how to ride my KX500 properly though ?

Been to Hospital too many times but, I won't sell the bike.

Look forward to your reply.

[caseye]

That hourly rate would be staggering

First, It'd fuking have to be a stunning rate before I could ever see you working for a fuckwit like that.
Second, good luck with the new gig mate, time for a bit of R & R, no shame in that.
Go you good thing.

[neels]

Work to live, not live to work, and when work starts to take over your life move on. Actually, right now I should take my own advice.

Good luck with whatever the next step is, I'm sure you'll find the company bullshit more than compensates for the self employed inconvenience.

[AllanB]

I want a new job.

If you new one is not cop or MC training related you can now be like the rest of us when you ride for pleasure and ignore half the safety/ road rules ......

[rastuscat]

I've done maybe 50000 km per year work related in the last 3 years. On my own bikes. At my expense.

It's taken a lot of the joy out of motorcycling

[HenryDorsetCase]

Bugger. Didn't see that one on Seek.

Have you moved on?

Nah I love being the weeknight back door man at the Blue Oyster Bar - though we changed its name to the Eagle a while back:

http://eagle-ny.com/

[Grumph]

37.5 hours is almost certainly the Public Service.....Once you've done time in there and got a clean record, it's not hard going back to another branch....

[HenryDorsetCase]

Have you moved on?

I started here on 1 April 15. Its fucking hilarious.

[rastuscat]

37.5 hours is almost certainly the Public Service.....Once you've done time in there and got a clean record, it's not hard going back to another branch....

Have to keep it schtum for now. It'll start a new thread when you find out what it is.

[GazzaH]

I've done maybe 50000 km per year work related in the last 3 years. On my own bikes. At my expense.

It's taken a lot of the joy out of motorcycling

That's the reason I enjoy "going to church" on Sunday mornings - riding the bike for the sake of it, not to go or get somewhere.

I hope there's enough joy left for you to make the odd outing Rastuscat. Somehow I don't think you'll resist the lure for long.

Best wishes for your new life of slavery.

[MarkH]

I've gone through a similar thing. I was self employed sorting computer issues, kinda got sick of dealing with everyone's silly problems, but then the 2008 recession made things worse when no bugger would spend a cent if they didn't need to.

Now I'm just a wage slave, turn up and do my job and then go home. Recently I took 4 weeks off work, I even got paid for it! Got down to the Burt Munro rally and checked out more of the South Island. I'll probably take 4 weeks off next year at the same time, it worked out pretty nice. I like having the regular income that I can rely on, it really makes it easy to plan stuff.

I really wouldn't be all that keen on going back to being self employed, so much easier to go home and stop giving a fuck about work until the next day that I turn up. Unless I win Lotto and retire early, I'd rather just keep on letting someone else have the business worry.

[AllanB]

I've done maybe 50000 km per year work related in the last 3 years. On my own bikes. At my expense.

It's taken a lot of the joy out of motorcycling


Bugger.

Give it a rest, then next Spring buy a silly powerful naked or motard style bike and put the hooligan smile back into life.

[Oakie]

Hey RC. If your 37.5 hour job falls through you could come and be a DX delivery rider with me. Get paid to ride a bike and have the benefits of being an employee. Bike's a bit smaller than you're used to though.

[JimO]

i have been self employed since 1986, dont know if i could go back to slaving for THE MAN, be nice to get a pay packet occasionally though

[Ocean1]

In summary, some people are good at being self employed contractors, and some not so much. I'm not so much.

You don't realise the benefits of being employed by someone until you don't have those benefits. Like Kiwisaver contributions. Like paid annual leave. Like having colleagues to bounce ideas off. The psycho-social aspect of work is often underrated.

Just now, if I get sick and can't work, I don't get paid. What that leads to is me going to work when I'm crook as a dog. I had to excuse myself from a client one day about a year ago so I could go and vomit, then return to continue with the lesson. That started me thinking.

Of course, there will be those who are thinking "Welcome to my world". That's okay, if that's your world and it suits you, all good. It just doesn't suit me.

So I'm running away to an hourly rate, 37.5 hours a week job where I don't have to work every weekend to earn a living.

The job isn't confirmed yet, so I won't disclose it.

It's fair to say that I'll miss the motorcycle world where I've worked part time and full time since I became a baby traffic cop in 1988. I know I'll miss the industry, it's full of awesome people.

But it's my time to move on.

Everyone should have to spend some time self employed, it may not be all that comfortable but it does make you appreciate what it takes to produce your wages.

Good luck mate, hope it pans out well.

[rastuscat]

Bugger.

Give it a rest, then next Spring buy a silly powerful naked or motard style bike and put the hooligan smile back into life.

I'm keeping the 1200RT. Not sure about the 800ST

[rastuscat]

Hey RC. If your 37.5 hour job falls through you could come and be a DX delivery rider with me. Get paid to ride a bike and have the benefits of being an employee. Bike's a bit smaller than you're used to though.

First bike I ever rode was a CT90. In 1972, I think.

That'd be back to the future.

[Voltaire]

Everyone should have to spend some time self employed, it may not be all that comfortable but it does make you appreciate what it takes to produce your wages.

Good luck mate, hope it pans out well.

I can't say I look back fondly on my 5 years as Self Employed Sparkie/AC installer, but as you say it gives you an appreciation on self starting

and paying your tax masters. The GFC ended that and now a corporate suit.

[roogazza]

RC, I got the shits with the Police in 85 and resigned. After a stint overseas at different jobs I returned and was offered a position, so rejoined the job ! No refresher course,just the fitness test and I was away.
Nothing like having to work for a living to realise what you had... Good luck with whatever it is .

[pritch]

Good luck with getting the job.

[Akzle]

best of british and whatnot.

[MD]

Good luck with whatever comes your way.

I admire people that give self-employment a go. Takes courage and commitment. Well done. I confess I have always been a salary man. Worse I work in the corporate world. Once you realise life is far easier if you just 'go with the flow' do what they ask and hey presto. Take home the fortnightly cheque and life is sweet. Lots of benefits having an employer as you mentioned. Get paid to be on holiday. Get paid if you are sick. I'm lucky that mine has an awesome Super scheme with employer matched + a bit contributions to keep us honest and loyal - that works for me. I used to get shocked when I discovered others such as self-employed buddies or those working for small businesses didn't have a Super fund.

At times you do get sick of the fact that you have to get up early Monday to Friday, because someone else expects you to turn up. I tell young staff that moan about work, that one day they will appreciate the times they held their tongue and just did as the company/boss wanted (unless you work for Harvey Weinstein of course),

[EJK]

So now there's a job opening at Dan Ornsby's eh? Maybe Cassina could step up to the challenge?

[Blackbird]

Good luck with whatever comes your way.

I admire people that give self-employment a go. Takes courage and commitment. Well done. I confess I have always been a salary man. Worse I work in the corporate world. Once you realise life is far easier if you just 'go with the flow' do what they ask and hey presto. Take home the fortnightly cheque and life is sweet...............

Pre-retirement, I worked in the corporate world for what was once an excellent employer. After being taken over by a corporate asset-stripper, the whole culture changed and as I'd paid into a really good company super scheme for many years, it was time to retire at 60. I was asked to consult back to the company for 9 months to run a project which I did with some reluctance but the money was good. I mainly worked from home and being that little bit removed, it was a quite a shock when visiting the company to find that some senior management behaviours I'd tolerated for some years were no longer acceptable as they directly impacted on the running of the project. A few words were exchanged... Once you step outside the system, serious shortcomings really stick out. Got offered more work but there were more enjoyable things to do.

There are plusses and minuses to both working for yourself and being in a big organisation. During my working life, I had some good managers as well as some truly terrible ones. However, in all that time; I only had two bosses who could be called genuine leaders - visionaries, approachable, truly inspirational. The sort of person you'd walk over broken glass for. True leaders are as rare as hen's teeth.

Best wishes Pete! :niceone::niceone:

[Grumph]

So now there's a job opening at Dan Ornsby's eh? Maybe Cassina could step up to the challenge?

Oh, please, please please, YES.....

Mind you, I like Dan, it might prove a tad risky for the business...

[Oakie]

So now there's a job opening at Dan Ornsby's eh? Maybe Cassina could step up to the challenge?
Indeed there is. https://www.facebook.com/pg/DanOrnsbyMotorcycleTraining/jobs/178245976132568/?source=post_newsstand

[george formby]

It's taken a lot of the joy out of motorcycling

Yup, I was offered some sage advice many years ago. Never turn what you love into a job, you will most likely just be left with a job you don't like.

I've had a couple of cracks at having my own business, made and then lost a lot of money first time round. Lost everything really, home, missus, confidence. Second time I just lost all my money, which wasn't much....

Such is life.

I'm happier now than I have ever been, I wish you the same good fortune.

[Daffyd]

IMHO you've made the right decision. I was a self employed electrician for seven years in the 60's/70's and in that time I had TWO hot Christmas dinners.

People seem to have the idea that if you're self employed you're your own boss. WRONG! Everyone is your boss. Someone calls you out to a breakdown and you don't go, you've lost a client, one that, in all likelihood, you'll never see again. A one man and a boy business cannot sustain that.

[OddDuck]

Fair enough Rastus, hope it works out. I had a go at earning some additional on the side (not full self employment), didn't work out, did make me appreciate a paycheck, support teams, and business hours though.

Best of luck with the job.

[awayatc]

Good luck.
Everybody deserves to enjoy themselves....
Even at work

[Moi]

Good on you for giving the "self-employed" a try.
Whatever is next, all the best and may you still be smiling on the way home each day.

Riding to/from work certainly helps set you up for a good day...

[R650R]

In summary, some people are good at being self employed contractors, and some not so much. I'm not so much.

You don't realise the benefits of being employed by someone until you don't have those benefits. Like Kiwisaver contributions. Like paid annual leave. Like having colleagues to bounce ideas off. The psycho-social aspect of work is often underrated.

Just now, if I get sick and can't work, I don't get paid. What that leads to is me going to work when I'm crook as a dog. I had to excuse myself from a client one day about a year ago so I could go and vomit, then return to continue with the lesson. That started me thinking.



Snap... I took a break from truck driving where I was doing 70 hours a week and branched into photography and writing for couple years... Everyone always said my material was awesome... but getting people to buy stuff is a different art altogether. Infact if being self employed I think having the gift of the gab to sell the sizzle not the stake needs to be a primary attribute... Also forcing creativity out instead of doing it because you like it is different too.... Having two motorbikes and two mountain bikes in the shed didn't help on sunny days either.... On a good day I was earning $1000 day for magazine work... but the down time inbetween work is depressing... but your always chasing whats just around the corner....
Anyway three years ago I decided to go back to working for someone else in logistics industry, got a job at my first choice of employer who've been awesome and I've recently stepped up into big gear I'd thought I'd never get a chance at using, better money and work conditions than I've ever had plus bonuses and training/upskilling always....

I blame Rossi though... an ex girlfriend gave me his book "What if I never tried"....

Yeah the injury thing is a major, even I little thing like a dislocated toe at martial arts club, hobbling around on a job just doesn't look professional.... Now I have over 20 unused sick days, my work ethic means I turn up unless I'm literally dying lol....

[Moi]

Have to keep it schtum for now. It'll start a new thread when you find out what it is.

I know! I know!


He's off to do his Masters with the thesis on "motorcycle dynamics"...


Eventually it'll be Dr Rastuscat :bleh:

[Bald Eagle]

Well good luck with the new venture RC.
I perfed in 91 been a corporate wage slave since. Until yesterday when we sold the house in Welly and moving to wangavegas for retirement. Will see how that pans out

Sent from my Redmi Note 4X using Tapatalk

[rastuscat]

Yeah the injury thing is a major, even I little thing like a dislocated toe at martial arts club, hobbling around on a job just doesn't look professional.... Now I have over 20 unused sick days, my work ethic means I turn up unless I'm literally dying lol....

Indeed. When I left the Police I had over 200 unused sick days. Some of us aren't sick bay rangers.

Those days just disappeared in the dust when I left, and it left me wondering if I should have used a few of them up in the same unethical way a lot of people do.

That's the problem with being honest. You are honest.

[Moi]

Indeed. When I left the Police I had over 200 unused sick days. Some of us aren't sick bay rangers.

Those days just disappeared in the dust when I left, and it left me wondering if I should have used a few of them up in the same unethical way a lot of people do.

That's the problem with being honest. You are honest.

When I retired after 42 years, four days before I turned 60, in education I had enough sick leave to have had a year off "sick"... once teachers had a term off then retired. But I thought a year... that's pushing it a bit! Shame we couldn't get a credit for it...

[Coldrider]

So Cassina isn't Dan taking the piss, I need to get out more.

[Cosmik de Bris]

Indeed. When I left the Police I had over 200 unused sick days. Some of us aren't sick bay rangers.

Those days just disappeared in the dust when I left, and it left me wondering if I should have used a few of them up in the same unethical way a lot of people do.

That's the problem with being honest. You are honest.

My old man told me to never trust a person who tells you how honest they are; that's why I've never bought a car from Honest Joe's car yard.

Cheers

[pritch]

Yup, I was offered some sage advice many years ago. Never turn what you love into a job, you will most likely just be left with a job you don't like.


Or, if you turn your hobby into a paying job, you need to find a new hobby.

[nzspokes]

But dont you claim depreciation cost of maintenance and insurance? Big perks I would have thought.

You have no idea about a business either. :killingme

[rastuscat]

But dont you claim depreciation cost of maintenance and insurance? Big perks I would have thought.

Its significantly more complex than that.

[rastuscat]

Did you not hire an accountant?

Yes. That's the problem. Each time I talk to the accountant to try to understand an issue I get invoiced for the call.

Basically I just want to go to work, do what I'm paid to do, and not have to trouble myself with ACC levies, GST, provisional tax, depreciation etc.

For me, the benefits of being self emplpyed are easily outweighed by these issues.

It's just my call. You make yours based on your assessment of your situation.

[Voltaire]

But dont you claim depreciation cost of maintenance and insurance? Big perks I would have thought.

Clearly no understanding of what a "perk" is either.

[Viking01]

Yes. That's the problem. Each time I talk to the accountant to try to understand an issue I get invoiced for the call.

Basically I just want to go to work, do what I'm paid to do, and not have to trouble myself with ACC levies, GST, provisional tax, depreciation etc.

For me, the benefits of being self emplpyed are easily outweighed by these issues.

It's just my call. You make yours based on your assessment of your situation.



Rastus,
It's been interesting reading this thread, and your comments along the way.

I get the feeling that there are two aspects about being self employed that
might have been bothering you:

a. charging an hourly or daily rate that was sufficient to compensate you
for risk of reduced continuity of work, plus annual and sick leave provision.
b. administration tasks that go with being self employed.


Background
I've been working as a self employed contractor in the IT industry. And I use
an accountant (she is very good and also well priced). I've also been reasonably
fortunate to have had almost full employment the last 20 years since starting
contracting.


1. Charge-Out

If your annual number of days of employment or your charge-out rate is not
sufficient to provide you a reasonable level of income - plus compensate you
for some annual and sick leave as well, then it will always be a struggle to
justify the decision to go solo. And not do a permanent role instead.

2. Administration

I understand what you say re doing returns for ACC, GST, PAYE or Prov Tax,
but it doesn't have to be onerous. I'm definitely not criticising your choice,
but it can be as simple as setting up a few spreadsheets, using a banking
software product for expenses, and doing the occasional return.

To give you an example: Registered company with a single employee

Do your inital assessment of business viability (e.g. cash flow in/out), and
decide on the likely mode of operation (e.g. limited company; sole trader).

Then go have a face-to-face discussion with your accountant, and agree on
the structure that best suits you. Any decent accountant should help you
through this phase. Should be a one-off cost up-front.

Register the company if required (see Companies Office website online).

a. Set up separate bank accounts for the business (putting aside a GST and PAYE
provision each payment cycle, and making tax payment via your bank web interface).
b. ACC - 2 returns per year (an initial annual ACC assessment plus a wash-up).
c. GST - Either 2 or 6 returns per year (lodge online via IRD MyIR interface).
d. PAYE or Prov Tax - Choice of paying periodic Prov Tax, or say monthly PAYE.
Lodge tax return online and also make physical tax payment.
e. Company Registration - If choose to setup your own company - Pay fee once a year.
f. Recording Company income and expenses - Via spreadsheets or a software banking
product.
g. Pay suppliers when applicable (especially the accountant's bill .... 8-)
h. Annual statement for claiming expenses associated with "use of home premises".

I've ignored FBT and KiwiSaver. Might not be applicable in your case.

If I've forgotten an item, some-one else is sure to pipe up and mention it.


I choose to use an accountant, and for the following:

a. Initial advice on GST exemptions the business is entitled to (claim via GST Return).
b. Making sure that I have prepared and sent in all tax returns when they were due.
c. Advice on new asset purchases for the business (if needed).
d. Apportioning tax between me and the business at end of financial year, plus doing
the Annual Tax Returns (for me and the business).

And that's about it.

It might look a little daunting, but once you get into the rhythm, the admin effort
is really quite small.

Best of luck with whatever you decide.

Cheers,
Viking

[TheDemonLord]

Rastus,

Plus, if that advise doesn't work - you can always sail your longboat to Europe and pillage a few monasteries...

[Daffyd]

No its not my assessment of my situation but rather what I have heard from others that have been self employed. With some occupations you would qualify for more tax breaks than others I guess. I have a friend in business who gets little or nothing in the way of tax breaks but he has also not SOUGHT the ADVICE of an accountant either.

There, fixed that for you. You're welcome!

[george formby]

Plus, if that advise doesn't work - you can always sail your longboat to Europe and pillage a few monasteries...

No longer much of an earner I'm afraid, most of them charge an entry fee now and are relic-less.. Pillaging Ladbrokes would be much betterer. Then again, I've seen Snatch so maybe not.

[Grumph]

Plus, if that advise doesn't work - you can always sail your longboat to Europe and pillage a few monasteries...


No longer much of an earner I'm afraid, most of them charge an entry fee now and are relic-less.. Pillaging Ladbrokes would be much betterer. Then again, I've seen Snatch so maybe not.

The days of building and sailing your own longboat away to rape and pillage have gone. Marine safety has been crushed by OSH. I don't even know if you could leave now in a home built boat. When I was a kid we were a yachting family and knew several people who either sailed here or sailed away...One guy I was at school with who was shall I say not the most clued up....had to be air lifted off his boat complete with wife and 3 kids on his return to NZ. The rest of the world was easy, our waters not so much...

I do hope Rastus hasn't joined Maritime NZ to direct traffic.

[SPman]

True leaders are as rare as hen's teeth.

Best wishes Pete! :niceone::niceone:

Rarer!.....

Working for yerself can be fun - I did it for 20 odd years, building and maintaining houses and stuff, but it's fraught.

[GazzaH]

The days of building and sailing your own longboat away to rape and pillage have gone.

Yup, it's all grape and spillage these days.

[rastuscat]

For example.

Today I did one CBTA 6F test, one CBTA 6R test, and 4.5 hours of basic handling skills testing.

After GST, tax, business expenses (insurance, petrol, phone, miles on bike etc) are taken into account, I reckon I'll be able to retain maybe $160.

For an 11 hour day.

Nah, any old day job looks good from where I sit.

[Jeeper]

Good luck. Although I do think you are not pricing your services adequately. I have switched between consulting and full time employment, depending on the project on offer, pretty much all my life. When consulting you build in all downtown in the contract cost. I do understand that its not easy.

[Taxythingy]

I can sympathise with your decision.

The better half works about 25 hours a week contracting to the Australian office of a multinational. The hourly rate looks great. Then there are the evening phone calls (just finished one now at 11pm), small daily tasks due by 8am tomorrow morning and soon to be 7am in winter, including Saturdays thanks to USA working week, and the poorly organised mad-rush jobs with 3 bosses that run right up to a deadline thanks to employees not doing their jobs properly. Note they are hard to fire, but contractors aren't (i.e. requirement to be moderately nice about being given crap). No holidays, no sick days (I cover the kids), taking a kid to the doctor means working late to make up hours, ACC, accountant, tax (I end up a day's annual leave per year just so she can do that). Add to that paying for childcare to cover working time. The net result is better than minimum wage, but it sure doesn't feel like a good earner.

Of course, take the child care out of that in a year or two and it looks better. We're good with that - we're fortunate to have the choice of how to run things.

Hope it works out for you.

[rastuscat]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

[Ocean1]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Aye, if you can't convince people to pay you directly then working for a monopoly that'll make 'em pay up will work every time.

[Akzle]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

ehh... why?

[TheDemonLord]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.


Plus, if that advise doesn't work - you can always sail your longboat to Europe and pillage a few monasteries...

I see you've gone for the Rape and Pillage option...

[rastuscat]

ehh... why?

Haters gonna hate.

[Swoop]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Now, that's low.


Can you play the piano Rastus? There's another brothel down the road from mine needing a piano player. Can get you and interview if you want?

[rastuscat]

Now, that's low.


Can you play the piano Rastus? There's another brothel down the road from mine needing a piano player. Can get you and interview if you want?

I haven't heard back from the Blue Oyster Bar yet.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Congratulations, I guess.

At least it isnt Wilson Parking, the well known criminal conspiracy.

[Grumph]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Can you try and talk them into employing young(ish) bikini babes as meter maids in summer please.
I've always wanted to check out the ones on the Gold Coast but doubt if I'll ever get there now....

Oh - and buy good shoes, VERY good shoes.

[Voltaire]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

C@@L, I can just imagine the joy of seeing a WOF or Rego that's just expired must bring..:devil2::banana:..and ones that are not visible, or

that moment the owner arrives back to see their car being towed away.:drool:

[rastuscat]

It's back to the future for me. I started my career as a traffic cop on a bike with the Auckland City Traffic Department.

One thing that is different is a Honda PCX150, instead of a BMW R80RT-P.

I'll still get all the heat of being called a revenue collector, blah blah blah. Harrumph.

[Navy Boy]

It's back to the future for me. I started my career as a traffic cop on a bike with the Auckland City Traffic Department.

One thing that is different is a Honda PCX150, instead of a BMW R80RT-P.

I'll still get all the heat of being called a revenue collector, blah blah blah. Harrumph.

The thing is, and I admire you for having the cahunas to do this, you went out and gave it a go on your own. Many people talk about doing that but few actually do it.

Good on 'ya. :cool:

[caseye]

The thing is, and I admire you for having the cahunas to do this, you went out and gave it a go on your own. Many people talk about doing that but few actually do it.

Good on 'ya. :cool:

What he said! Good on you for taking the punt and once you'd decided it wasn't for you, doing somehting about it.
Long way back from a Copper to a PW, but hey, nothing lasts forever.

[Akzle]

Haters gonna hate.

that they will.

i just can't see any satisfaction in harassing people about shitthatdoesn'tmatter™.
so it is a mystery to me how you could, like, not hang yourself.

[rastuscat]

that they will.

i just can't see any satisfaction in harassing people about shitthatdoesn'tmatter™.
so it is a mystery to me how you could, like, not hang yourself.

It's okay, I'm well hung. :nya:

[Madness]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Cunt.

10mfhalc.

[Scuba_Steve]

I'll still get all the heat of being called a revenue collector, blah blah blah. Harrumph.

Well now you definitely are there ain't no arguing it this time.
infact the WCC (WellyTown City Council) has numerous times stated that it has never been shown to "move people along" as other councils claim & the only reason we have it is so the WCC can make more of that cash moneys; tho they do try & carrot that stick by saying "it helps them to keep the rates slightly lower"

Don't forget these people are using parks they've paid for in their rates, paying for the metering in their rates, pay for upkeep in their rates, and pay for the enforcement in their rates just so they can pay more via a fine for not being on time.

[rastuscat]

Come on guys. Say what you really mean.

[Banditbandit]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Good luck .. I hope you will be happier ..

[rastuscat]

Don't forget these people are using parks they've paid for in their rates, paying for the metering in their rates, pay for upkeep in their rates, and pay for the enforcement in their rates just so they can pay more via a fine for not being on time.

In an ideal world there would be enough parks for everyone, all the time. But there aren't.

It's basically rationing.

[PistonBlown]

The way to endless free parking in Christchurch is simple. Get a ute, hang a hi-vis over the back of the seat, park behind any of the thousands of cones blocking legit parking spaces that builders have hijacked.

[FJRider]

I've got a job as a parking warden at the local council.

Let's see where this leads the discussion. :woohoo::woohoo::woohoo:

Does the job come with a Glock and (or) handcuffs .. ?? <_<

[Moi]

Well done.

Does Rangiora have a parking problem?

[rastuscat]

Well done.

Does Rangiora have a parking problem?

Living in Goon. Working in Christchurch.

[FJRider]

... Don't forget these people are using parks they've paid for in their rates, paying for the metering in their rates, pay for upkeep in their rates, and pay for the enforcement in their rates just so they can pay more via a fine for not being on time.

You seem to forget ...

1. Wellington City Ratepayers are not the ONLY ones using Council provided metered car parks.

And ... unless you can provide information to the contrary ...

2. WCC funds the creation of metered parking spaces, and the upkeep and enforcement of the parking system. I am not aware of it EVER being stated that free parking is (was/should be) available in metered parks to ratepayers. To even suggest they should be able to is hilarious ... and bordering on the ludicrous.

3. The "Cash Cow" that the metered car parks are, provide a larger (continuing) return than was ever spent in providing the metered existing parking spaces.

4. The Rates paid by residents of Wellington are NOT the sole source of funding for the Wellington City Council. Nor is the setting up of more metered parking spaces their only intended/existing expenditure.

[rastuscat]

You seem to forget ...

1. Wellington City Ratepayers are not the ONLY ones using Council provided metered car parks.

And ... unless you can provide information to the contrary ...

2. WCC funds the creation of metered parking spaces, and the upkeep and enforcement of the parking system. I am not aware of it EVER being stated that free parking is (was/should be) available in metered parks to ratepayers. To even suggest they should be able to is hilarious ... and bordering on the ludicrous.

3. The "Cash Cow" that the metered car parks are, provide a larger (continuing) return than was ever spent in providing the metered existing parking spaces.

4. The Rates paid by residents of Wellington are NOT the sole source of funding for the Wellington City Council. Nor is the setting up of more metered parking spaces their only intended/existing expenditure.

Stop it. Facts have no place on KB.

[FJRider]

In an ideal world there would be enough parks for everyone, all the time. But there aren't.

It's basically rationing.

And financially rewarding for the Council.

But with all the new cycleways being constructed in Chch ... parking issues should be reducing ... soon.


Or have I got it wrong ... again ... :beer:

[Akzle]

The thing is, and I admire you for having the cahunas to do this, you went out and gave it a go on your own. Many people talk about doing that but few actually do it.

Good on 'ya. :cool:

and how sick is that, that a man can't earn a living by his onesies, without teh govt raping him.

vote akzle.


on a related note. start-up-and-fail-within-three-years-sole-trader businesses are the most popular in nz. like. 80% popular.


don't forget to keep your receipts for 7 years now rastus. very important. cos jews.

[Akzle]

Living in Goon. Working in Christchurch.

zomg. do you get a baton?
can you please find c*ssina (it'll be parked 45• across a handicapped space in a big safe suv, and probably drooling in a bucket strapped to it's head) and beat some sense into it. post on youtube for maximum win.

[Oakie]

Think I saw that advertised when i was on my job search. Well done anyway.

I'll keep an eye out while I am toodling about DXing. Perhaps your PCX150 and my CT110 can have a race one day...

[Grumph]

I'll keep an eye out while I am toodling about DXing. Perhaps your PCX150 and my CT110 can have a race one day...

Oh that KB has come to this.......

[rastuscat]

Think I saw that advertised when i was on my job search. Well done anyway.

I'll keep an eye out while I am toodling about DXing. Perhaps your PCX150 and my CT110 can have a race one day...

I've delivered courses to DX, NZ Post and parking wardens in Chch. Considered doing all 3.

The PCX would eat the Cub. And the GN too.

Maybe a brewski at Raewards some day.

[Oakie]

I've delivered courses to DX, NZ Post and parking wardens in Chch. Considered doing all 3.

The PCX would eat the Cub. And the GN too.

Maybe a brewski at Raewards some day.

Well thanks for not applying for my DX job then. To be honest, it'll take all my time to come to terms with the heel and toe gear change and automatic clutch on the CT so I think I'll be a Nana for a while. Raewards sounds fair.

[Akzle]

Oh that KB has come to this.......

yeah you're all getting old.

i've started noticing that. in the people around me... all getting old.

[rastuscat]

yeah you're all getting old.

i've started noticing that. in the people around me... all getting old.

I'll still vote Azkill

[skippa1]

yeah you're all getting old.

i've started noticing that. in the people around me... all getting old.
Not me.....parts of me are less than 2 years old

[skippa1]

When I wuz a kid I'd have said " Let's do some skids, ow" but I grew up 35 years ago.
Thats not growing up .....thats just getting boring

[Moi]

You seem to forget ...

1. Wellington City Ratepayers are not the ONLY ones using Council provided metered car parks.

And ... unless you can provide information to the contrary ...

2. WCC funds the creation of metered parking spaces, and the upkeep and enforcement of the parking system. I am not aware of it EVER being stated that free parking is (was/should be) available in metered parks to ratepayers. To even suggest they should be able to is hilarious ... and bordering on the ludicrous.

3. The "Cash Cow" that the metered car parks are, provide a larger (continuing) return than was ever spent in providing the metered existing parking spaces.

4. The Rates paid by residents of Wellington are NOT the sole source of funding for the Wellington City Council. Nor is the setting up of more metered parking spaces their only intended/existing expenditure.

What makes me chuckle is that some who complain about WCC and their parking regime are not WCC rate payers but rate payers of one of the other urban authorities... perhaps a Wellington "supercity" should be imposed upon them... where's Rodney when you need him?

[FJRider]

What makes me chuckle is that some who complain about WCC and their parking regime are not WCC rate payers but rate payers of one of the other urban authorities...

You mean those from Upper - Upper Hutt ... ;)

[FJRider]

Thats not growing up .....thats just getting boring

Growing old is Compulsory ... growing up is optional ... ;)

[skippa1]

Growing old is Compulsory ... growing up is optional ... ;)
Yup............

[Akzle]

Growing old is Compulsory ... growing up is optional ... ;)

and growing pot is illegal

[pritch]

I've never understood people who argue with parking wardens, it's not like they didn't know what the situation was. One of the local meter maids got punched by a guy once. Ridiculous.
Although when I was working, on more than one occasion I had to go to the Council offices to argue about incorrectly issued tickets. My initial impression was that the wardens needed training, but their efforts were bad enough to suggest that perhaps they weren't all waiting for knock-off time to indulge in the recreational chemicals of their choice.

Rastus, some comfortable shoes might be a good investment. Now your an employee again though you won't be able to claim them off your tax.

[awayatc]

After years of fining people for going to fast,
You can now fine them for being stationary for to long.....:rolleyes:

Good onya for getting the job....
One of my sons is a parking warden in Wellington,
Not a bad job at all.

[FJRider]

and growing pot is illegal

Only if you get caught ...

[rastuscat]

After years of fining people for going to fast,
You can now fine them for being stationary for to long.....:rolleyes:

Good onya for getting the job....
One of my sons is a parking warden in Wellington,
Not a bad job at all.

I was never really a big fan of speeding tickets. I was keener on tickets for dumb driving.

I guess now I can focus on tickets for dumb parking.

[HenryDorsetCase]

and growing pot is illegal

Here's a philosophical conundrum for you: when weed is legalised will you join the proper economy (i.e. pay wages to staff, buy or lease land to do it, tax, PAYE, GST and so forth i.e. join the legit economy) or will you continue to grow for supply through a tinny house like now?

Oregon has since legalisation made a massive amount of money off of the tax generated - for that and no other reason I think it should be legalised. It would not affect my consumption one iota, but for people that are into it, it generates a nett benefit for society due to the tax revenues.

jsut curious.

[HenryDorsetCase]

I was never really a big fan of speeding tickets. I was keener on tickets for dumb driving.

I guess now I can focus on tickets for dumb parking.

I dont think it will give you the frisson of excitement and semi-chub you used to get though.

[Swoop]

Here's a philosophical conundrum for you: when weed is legalised will you join the proper economy (i.e. pay wages to staff, buy or lease land to do it, tax, PAYE, GST and so forth i.e. join the legit economy) or will you continue to grow for supply through a tinny house like now?

Oregon has since legalisation made a massive amount of money off of the tax generated - for that and no other reason I think it should be legalised. It would not affect my consumption one iota, but for people that are into it, it generates a nett benefit for society due to the tax revenues.
With it negatively affecting the gang aspects of this, surely there is more gain for the gubbinment/taxpayer?

[Scuba_Steve]

In an ideal world there would be enough parks for everyone, all the time. But there aren't.

It's basically rationing.

but again, parking meters doesn't help/solve that problem it just makes people pay for parks they've already paid for
Does Chch still have that txt a park system that'll txt that'll ask for more money when time is near? Not encouraging people to move along, just to throw more money the councils way.
Things could have changed, it was pre-war pre-earthquake last I paid for a park down there

[rastuscat]

but again, parking meters doesn't help/solve that problem it just makes people pay for parks they've already paid for
Does Chch still have that txt a park system that'll txt that'll ask for more money when time is near? Not encouraging people to move along, just to throw more money the councils way.
Things could have changed, it was pre-war pre-earthquake last I paid for a park down there

Pay by Plate down here. Pay and display is so pre earthquake.

Not sure if you can pay by text. Its going to be a learner. I'll wear an L plate.

[hamjet]

Career change coming up for me. Again.

Just in case anyone gives a toss.

I've attended a couple of your courses ,as a returning rider. You put my daughter thru her licenses. Thank-you for your outstanding instruction. All the best for the future Pete.

[rastuscat]

I've attended a couple of your courses ,as a returning rider. You put my daughter thru her licenses. Thank-you for your outstanding instruction. All the best for the future Pete.

Aw schucks. Thanks. #warmfuzzies

[rastuscat]

I haven't made any difference.

I know it's true. She-who-won't-be- mentioned says so.

[FJRider]

Here's a philosophical conundrum for you: when weed is legalised will you join the proper economy (i.e. pay wages to staff, buy or lease land to do it, tax, PAYE, GST and so forth i.e. join the legit economy) or will you continue to grow for supply through a tinny house like now?



If it becomes legal ... the bottom will drop out of the market. And the legality will be smoking it and growing it for personal use ... not selling it.

[Akzle]

Here's a philosophical conundrum for you: when weed is legalised will you join the proper economy (i.e. pay wages to staff, buy or lease land to do it, tax, PAYE, GST and so forth i.e. join the legit economy) or will you continue to grow for supply through a tinny house like now?

Oregon has since legalisation made a massive amount of money off of the tax generated - for that and no other reason I think it should be legalised. It would not affect my consumption one iota, but for people that are into it, it generates a nett benefit for society due to the tax revenues.

jsut curious.

that's neither philosophical, nor a conundrum.

since most people currently trade -legal tender- for grass, as is, it's still spinning the wheels of jewmoney.

should cultivation be legalised, anyone interested in growing enough that they need staff (ferchrissakes) is probably a farmer and thus will do what farmers do: whinge benefits off the government when it's too hot, or wet, or the cows are a bit sad..

[Akzle]

If it becomes legal ... the bottom will drop out of the market. And the legality will be smoking it and growing it for personal use ... not selling it.

well no actually. when i'm voted king every shit will be legal. except being a fuckwit.

[FJRider]

well no actually. when i'm voted king every shit will be legal. except being a fuckwit.

Killed by your own laws ... how ironic ...

[hamjet]

I haven't made any difference.

I know it's true. She-who-won't-be- mentioned says so.

Tell her from me you "have made a difference". Practicing all those basics every time I go for a ride, like emergency braking, until it becomes second nature have saved my a?*se more than once. Works well on gravel too!! Chrs.

[eldog]

Come on guys. Say what you really mean.

Will it be enough of a challenge?

me thinks in your case not, but time will tell.

the grass always looks greener on the other side, comes to mind.

i do my best under pressure.... and pushed from all directions.

[eldog]

well no actually. when i'm voted king every shit will be legal. except being a fuckwit.
Are kings voted in? :scratch:

[GazzaH]

Are kings voted in? :scratch:

No, they're born "special". Something to do with royal jelly.

Or usurp. Now there's a word you don't hear every day.

[eldog]

No, they're born "special". Something to do with royal jelly.

Or usurp. Now there's a word you don't hear every day.

Akzle is “special” I guess.:sweatdrop

[rastuscat]

Akzle is “special” I guess.:sweatdrop

Speshul needs?

[cheshirecat]

Career change coming up for me. Again.

Just in case anyone gives a toss.

Freelance is tough. Good compromise is PT brainless job and freelance your dream. Hard combo but doable.

[caseye]

Speshul needs?

Yer gunna be fine Rastus!
Arsekill is a fuckwit! and he knows one when he sees one!
:baby::baby::baby::baby:

[rastuscat]

Freelance is tough. Good compromise is PT brainless job and freelance your dream. Hard combo but doable.

Thats what I'm planning. Doing some training or assessments on days off.

[FJRider]

Thats what I'm planning. Doing some training or assessments on days off.

Do you not have a family ... ??? I work 7 day shifts and 7 days off (PAID). It works (excuse the pun) for me.

Spending more time with the family makes the biggest difference ... regardless of having a smaller budget.

[Berries]

i do my best under pressure.... and pushed from all directions.
Isn't Manchester Street still in the red zone though?

[TheDemonLord]

when i'm voted king


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_Jb2gqu5xw

[Honest Andy]

Or usurp. Now there's a word you don't hear every day.

I heard it last night at the pub when I accidentally picked up the wrong glass...

"Oi! Usurped my beer!"

:drinkup:

[rastuscat]

Bloody Peasants.

[FJRider]

Bloody Peasants.

Revenue gatherer ...

[Akzle]

Bloody Peasants.

they're being repressed!

[Banditbandit]

In an ideal world there would be enough parks for everyone, all the time. But there aren't.

It's basically rationing.

Regardless of whether there enough parking spaces for everyone - these need to be maintained - and that costs money. It is a user pay system. Why should people who do not own vehicle and therefore do not use parking spaces be expected to pay?

[FJRider]

Regardless of whether there enough parking spaces for everyone - these need to be maintained - and that costs money. It is a user pay system. Why should people who do not own vehicle and therefore do not use parking spaces be expected to pay?

It supplies a great deal of revenue INCOME for the council on a daily basis (or maybe the council should just increase Rates to cover the shortfall and make it FREE PARKING in Christchurch). AND ... the maintenance/enforcement of the parking system is paid out of funds by the USERS ... so why should non users of the system have an issue with them .. ???

Which way would MOST ratepayers choose ... ???

[eldog]

Bloody Peasants.

Tax them till they stop complaining

[eldog]

Isn't Manchester Street still in the red zone though?

Going to the red light district ok:soon:

lets hope Rastus doesn’t give me a ticket for parking longer than posted parking times

[Coldrider]

Regardless of whether there enough parking spaces for everyone - these need to be maintained - and that costs money. It is a user pay system. Why should people who do not own vehicle and therefore do not use parking spaces be expected to pay?last time I was in ChCh, 2/3 of the town was vacant gravel. So one must be paying for the upkeep of the meter, not the space. Law of supply and demand, joke.

[neels]

It supplies a great deal of revenue INCOME for the council on a daily basis (or maybe the council should just increase Rates to cover the shortfall and make it FREE PARKING in Christchurch). AND ... the maintenance/enforcement of the parking system is paid out of funds by the USERS ... so why should non users of the system have an issue with them .. ???

Which way would MOST ratepayers choose ... ???
I'm happy to pay for parking on the rare occasion I take the car into town, and prefer the user pays model to generally higher rates in return for free parking I don't use 99.47% of the time.

I'll be keeping an eye out for shifty looking ex policeman parking attendants in future.....

[Ocean1]

I'm happy to pay for parking on the rare occasion I take the car into town, and prefer the user pays model to generally higher rates in return for free parking I don't use 99.47% of the time.

I'll be keeping an eye out for shifty looking ex policeman parking attendants in future.....

The thing is: when local authorities started all the "User Pays" stuff they never actually reduced rates accordingly.

The correct term, therefore is "User Pays Again"

[FJRider]

The thing is: when local authorities started all the "User Pays" stuff they never actually reduced rates accordingly.

The correct term, therefore is "User Pays Again"

The funny thing is ... both the residents AND the Council find/want plenty of OTHER stuff to spend Council money on.

[Ocean1]

The funny thing is ... both the residents AND the Council find/want plenty of OTHER stuff to spend Council money on.

Except it's just the council doing the spending. And it's just the residents' money they're spending.

And I'm pretty sure most of the residents consider themselves more than capable of spending their own hard earned money. And there's no doubt at all that they'd do a far better job of it.

[FJRider]

Except it's just the council doing the spending. And it's just the residents' money they're spending.



The residents have choices ... leaving the area is one choice.

[Ocean1]

The residents have choices ... leaving the area is one choice.

Yep, same choices as with any other protection racket.

[MarkH]

And I'm pretty sure most of the residents consider themselves more than capable of spending their own hard earned money. And there's no doubt at all that they'd do a far better job of it.

The residents would pay a concreter to come around and redo the footpaths on their street? And buy a bunch of books for a local library that they paid to have built?

I consider rates and councils to be a necessary thing, though not every spending decision would be agreeable to all rate payers, obviously.

[Akzle]

Yep, same choices as with any other protection racket.


youtube.com/watch?v=EL8e2ujXe8g
fucking minger. you voted for it.

[FJRider]

Yep, same choices as with any other protection racket.

The property rates are not any councils only source of income. The amount paid from any one property amounts to fuck all of the council expenditure. Yet every resident thinks that they own the council (and have final say in the expenditure) because they paid their rates.

[Ocean1]

The residents would pay a concreter to come around and redo the footpaths on their street? And buy a bunch of books for a local library that they paid to have built?

I consider rates and councils to be a necessary thing, though not every spending decision would be agreeable to all rate payers, obviously.

Necessary? No, at best they're a means to leverage economies of scale in purchasing.

But the fact is they're a monopoly. And by definition monopolies provide poor value for their "clients".

Is one enough to offset the other?

[Ocean1]

The property rates are not any councils only source of income. The amount paid from any one property amounts to fuck all of the council expenditure. Yet every resident thinks that they own the council (and have final say in the expenditure) because they paid their rates.

I didn't suggest they were.

All of their revenue comes from their "customers", though. And any customer has the right to demand value for his money.

[FJRider]

I didn't suggest they were.

All of their revenue comes from their "customers", though. And any customer has the right to demand value for his money.

Customers ... :lol: :killingme :tugger:

At best ... One of a few hundred thousand non voting subscribers in a company ... that gives them no actual say in how they do business.

Rates are NOT their sole source of income. They'd make more from parking (buildings and meters) than they do from rates.

[Ocean1]

Customers ... :lol: :killingme :tugger:

At best ... One of a few hundred thousand non voting subscribers in a company ... that gives them no actual say in how they do business.

Rates are NOT their sole source of income. They'd make more from parking (buildings and meters) than they do from rates.

Again, I didn't say it was. :tugger:

And if they're taking your money and supplying you goods and/or services then take my word for it: you're not a "non voting subscriber", you're their customer.

[Askor]

All the best Pete :scooter:

[rastuscat]

All the best Pete :scooter:

Chur chur chur

[rastuscat]

I don't start the new job for another couple of weeks. But today I'll be doing my last work as a full time motorcycle instructor.

I may do the occasional day of delivering training, but that aside, today is my last day.

I have one guy who has ridden before doing his basic handling. Then someone doing a CBTA 6R test.

And that's it.

If you think you have all the answers to motorcycle safety, man up, pack in what you are doing, and give this job a go.

If you're not prepared to do that, have some respect for those who have hung their hat on delivering training. I sure do.

[russd7]

I don't start the new job for another couple of weeks. But today I'll be doing my last work as a full time motorcycle instructor.

I may do the occasional day of delivering training, but that aside, today is my last day.

I have one guy who has ridden before doing his basic handling. Then someone doing a CBTA 6R test.

And that's it.

If you think you have all the answers to motorcycle safety, man up, pack in what you are doing, and give this job a go.

If you're not prepared to do that, have some respect for those who have hung their hat on delivering training. I sure do.

onya rastus, on a training note tho, I had a friend ring me the other night with a quandary, his niece has been coerced in to buying a motorcycle for transport (by her dad, mums none to pleased by the sounds). Any way, there is basically zero experience except dad carted mum round on one 15 or so years ago. the question posed to me is there any training available for someone with zero experience just to learn the basics of riding before even doing the basic handling.
I told him the best i know was nuthing until getting legal on the road then doing the ride forever courses.
scary part tho was mum has dragged out her helmet from 15yr ago and said well if ya gonna ride then here have this, my instant reaction was hell no, go buy her a new one that fits proper.
only other suggestion i had was to get her in a paddock and start riding cones and doing figure eights etc.
I did suggest he give neil a ring out at drivetech (opposition i know but he is local) but apart from that i know of no training available for a complete novice

[russd7]

. I did not bother with doing figure 8s or riding around cones.

hence the need to put your feet down when cornering, go figure

[rambaldi]

onya rastus, on a training note tho, I had a friend ring me the other night with a quandary, his niece has been coerced in to buying a motorcycle for transport (by her dad, mums none to pleased by the sounds). Any way, there is basically zero experience except dad carted mum round on one 15 or so years ago. the question posed to me is there any training available for someone with zero experience just to learn the basics of riding before even doing the basic handling.
I told him the best i know was nuthing until getting legal on the road then doing the ride forever courses.
scary part tho was mum has dragged out her helmet from 15yr ago and said well if ya gonna ride then here have this, my instant reaction was hell no, go buy her a new one that fits proper.
only other suggestion i had was to get her in a paddock and start riding cones and doing figure eights etc.
I did suggest he give neil a ring out at drivetech (opposition i know but he is local) but apart from that i know of no training available for a complete novice

I started with a basic handling course (although it was under the old system) with no prior motored riding experience. I didn't pass it that time, but a friend I was doing the course with did, and he had a similar background to me. So it certainly can be done. Funny thing is of the three of us that did the course together the first time around, the one that passed didn't end up getting a bike.

[Honest Andy]

hence the need to put your feet down when cornering, go figure

:rofl::yes::facepalm:

[Berries]

I don't start the new job for another couple of weeks.................
Vacancy just come up in Dunners you might be interested in?

[rastuscat]

Vacancy just come up in Dunners you might be interested in?

Its got an interesting back story. But its salacious, and I dont do gossip.

[JimO]

Its got an interesting back story. But its salacious, and I dont do gossip.
it was on stuff

[Berries]

And on a poster at Chipmunks

[nzspokes]

it was on stuff

Just read it. :crazy:

[Banditbandit]

. I did not bother with doing figure 8s or riding around cones.

I had several bikes before I even got a licence - never did any training course ... thought I didn't need them. (Too cool for school).

I'd been riding bikes for about 10 years when my wife made it a condition of getting a new bike that I did a training course .. I wanted the bike so I agreed and went to the course ...

I discovered I was not able to ride around the cones and do figure of eights ... frustrating ...

That was when I really started to learn to ride a bike ... I don't do training courses regularly - but every one I have done I have learnt something. And I've been a better rider after every one.

40 plus years of riding - some pretty hairy situations - and I'm still alive - BECAUSE I did that that basic training course (and a few others)

If you think you do not need a training course - you are very very wrong. And dangerous ...

PS you're a fuckwit ..

[rastuscat]

Changes coming thick and fast.

I've just been offered another role. I'm gling to jump at the chance.

Stay tuned.

[Luckylegs]

Changes coming thick and fast.

I've just been offered another role. I'm gling to jump at the chance.

Stay tuned.

Why, why not just tell us now. You seem like a decent bloke and always wanting to help so it pains me to ask, but are you just an

ATTENTION WHORE!!!!!

If you're going to come on and say something, tell the whole story. This isn't netflix. We cant just skip to the net episode when you leave us hanging on a cliffhanger like that.

[HondaLad]

Road Safety Coordinator for the Selwyn District

Taken from another of Rastuscat's threads...

[rastuscat]

Starting next Monday. I couldn't say much about it until the position was confirmed.

[Reckless]

:Quote Originally Posted by rastuscat - Road Safety Coordinator for the Selwyn District)



Starting next Monday. I couldn't say much about it until the position was confirmed.


Congrats Mate - Shit load better than being a Metermaid :)

[rastuscat]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".

[Grumph]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".

Given that in my experience most of the SDC councillors and staff are dickheads that'll fail too....

[Buddha#81]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".

Just find a Dick (or Richard will do) who is a bad driver and your campaign is saved....... thank me later but putting our roads back up to 100 :niceone:

[Scuba_Steve]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".

Maybee try "don't drive like a twat"?
Definitely like the direction tho
Think the "keep left unless overtaking" signs could use a refresh too something like "keep left unless overtaking you fucking moron!" could be a goer

[Oakie]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".

Should have started out with 'Don't drive like a cu*t' and then when they screamed, backed off to 'Dont drive like a dick'. Might have got it in then. Political correctness ... getting in the way of good shit since for ever. Battle on good sir.

[AllanB]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".


Or Cock - Selwyn is rural so we will appreciate the chicken reference.

[Grumph]

I'm split on this - the most accurate slogan would be "don't drive like a local "

But the most popular amongst the Councillors would be "don't drive like a townie"

[HenryDorsetCase]

Should have started out with 'Don't drive like a cu*t' and then when they screamed, backed off to 'Dont drive like a dick'. Might have got it in then. Political correctness ... getting in the way of good shit since for ever. Battle on good sir.

No no no. You must have gender neutral pronouns.

"Don't drive like a fuckwit" - there's your banner headline.

[rambaldi]

No no no. You must have gender neutral pronouns.

"Don't drive like a fuckwit" - there's your banner headline.

And your opening gambit is "Don't drive like you fuck" before backing down to your suggestion?

[GazzaH]

All too negative.

How 'bout "Drive like a legend" or "Drive to survive" or "Drive to the conditions".

Oh, hang on. My lameness meter just hit the end-stop.

[Ocean1]

You lot have fucking short memories if you think any slogan pointing fingers at local driving characteristics is going to have any effect whatsoever.

Just tell it like it is: GET THE FUCK OUT OF THE WAY YOU RETARDED CUNTS.

Think I'll get me some bumper stickers made up.

[Grumph]

You lot have fucking short memories if you think any slogan pointing fingers at local driving characteristics is going to have any effect whatsoever.

Just tell it like it is: GET THE FUCK OUT OF THE WAY YOU RETARDED CUNTS.

Think I'll get me some bumper stickers made up.

Get it laser cut in stainless for fitting to bull bars....

[Ocean1]

Get it laser cut in stainless for fitting to bull bars....

I once made some 12g powered emergency ground anchors for a client. I was *this close* to fitting a modified pair under the front of my 4WD Hiace.

[jellywrestler]

No no no. You must have gender neutral pronouns.

. if i had ten dollars for every gender there is nowadays i'd have $20 and a whole lot of fake money....

[caspernz]

You lot have fucking short memories if you think any slogan pointing fingers at local driving characteristics is going to have any effect whatsoever.

Just tell it like it is: GET THE FUCK OUT OF THE WAY YOU RETARDED CUNTS.

Think I'll get me some bumper stickers made up.

The words "Get on with it, or get out of the way" come to mind whenever I encounter someone doing 20 clicks under in lane 2 or 3. But oh well, 20 mm Gatling ammo is expensive, not to mention illegal :Oops:

[AllanB]

if i had ten dollars for every gender there is nowadays i'd have $20 and a whole lot of fake money....


Nah man my kids learnt this shit at High School - can't remember how many - way too many, there is even a non gender identifying gender apparently. I told them this this was bi-sexual, but apparently not. Bi like both sexes - this non gender person(s) just do not identify with either gender (male, female) and generally have no sexual interests.

Which I though odd, as surely one only has to pull down ones pants to at least consider what is between ones legs as a base gender. What one then decides to do with the discovered part may well define them in some gender manner.

But I am 53, apparently going the same way as the dinosaurs...

And as a side question - seriously is half the Labour part gay?

[Jeeper]

Just had my first setback.

My new campaign "Don't Drive Like A Dick" hasn't passed the internal controls.

Might have to change it to "Don't Drive Like A Dickhead".You can always name your character Richard Cranium and tell people to not do what he does..

[Ocean1]

And as a side question - seriously is half the Labour part gay?

Well they're certainly all queer, to a man.

[awayatc]

Well they're certainly all queer, to a man.

Do they man up to it though?

[rambaldi]

if i had ten dollars for every gender there is nowadays i'd have $20 and a whole lot of fake money....

Do you include fungus? There are like 11,000 genders for some of them...

[rastuscat]

Had a lady email us today.

For the last 2 years she has felt it dangerous to turn right at a particular intersection on her commute.

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that someone who can't work out an alternate route after 2 years is a slow learner.

Kind of epitomized society. Too busy wanting things to change to consider changing ourselves.

[Scuba_Steve]

Had a lady email us today.

For the last 2 years she has felt it dangerous to turn right at a particular intersection on her commute.

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that someone who can't work out an alternate route after 2 years is a slow learner.

Kind of epitomized society. Too busy wanting things to change to consider changing ourselves.

Well that retard give way rule fucked a few intersections up; but yea, Govt decided to tell people what to do now they HAVE to tell people what to do. Remember you build for an idiot & you'll get a new generation of idiots... it's a race to the bottom & we all lose.

[AllanB]

Had a lady email us today.

For the last 2 years she has felt it dangerous to turn right at a particular intersection on her commute.

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that someone who can't work out an alternate route after 2 years is a slow learner.

Kind of epitomized society. Too busy wanting things to change to consider changing ourselves.

Probably the same lady in a red Toyota who drives down Ellesmere road around 7.45am at 50 (now it's reduced to 80 - previously she did 60 when it was 100 ....). She is impressively ignorant to the train of frustrated drivers behind her regardless how much they sit on her tail and their horns.

[Berries]

Had a lady email us today.

For the last 2 years she has felt it dangerous to turn right at a particular intersection on her commute.

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that someone who can't work out an alternate route after 2 years is a slow learner.

Kind of epitomized society. Too busy wanting things to change to consider changing ourselves.
If that really is your attitude I can't see you lasting too long in a community focused role.

Did you pass it on to see if the intersection has an issue or just leave it at that? I imagine if one person has gone to the trouble of raising it then there will be several others who have the same problem.

[rastuscat]

If that really is your attitude I can't see you lasting too long in a community focused role.

Did you pass it on to see if the intersection has an issue or just leave it at that? I imagine if one person has gone to the trouble of raising it then there will be several others who have the same problem.

Burn.

You're right though. I've always solved challenges I've personally had by first looking at what I can do to solve the problem. More often than not, problem solved.

Likely I need to open my mind a little more to other points of view.

Cheers.

[neels]

Had a lady email us today.

For the last 2 years she has felt it dangerous to turn right at a particular intersection on her commute.

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that someone who can't work out an alternate route after 2 years is a slow learner.

Kind of epitomized society. Too busy wanting things to change to consider changing ourselves.
She just needs to move into town, then she can use the red light to turn right like everyone else does.

With the change in give way rules turning right anywhere is a pain in the arse, so I also would have found an alternative, and it wouldn't take 2 years.


If that really is your attitude I can't see you lasting too long in a community focused role.

Did you pass it on to see if the intersection has an issue or just leave it at that? I imagine if one person has gone to the trouble of raising it then there will be several others who have the same problem.
Valid point, and in Selwyn there's a good chance that new housing developments have increased traffic at any given intersection well over their capacity to function.

[rastuscat]

Hoping to meet the lady tomorrow.

There's a big infrastructure spend going on around the intersections feeding the new motorway. The one is question is one of those.

[Grumph]

Hoping to meet the lady tomorrow.

There's a big infrastructure spend going on around the intersections feeding the new motorway. The one is question is one of those.

All the rural roads crossing SH1 have been dangerous intersections for years. Getting worse as Rolleston grew.
It'll be at least a year before the new layouts shake down and any real judgement on the layouts can be reached.

[rastuscat]

All the rural roads crossing SH1 have been dangerous intersections for years. Getting worse as Rolleston grew.
It'll be at least a year before the new layouts shake down and any real judgement on the layouts can be reached.

It takes time. Rushed solutions seldom are the best solution.

It'd be great to click fingers and make things tickety boo.

[eldog]

Up here, there is work going on to increase the flow of traffic south of Auckland. It’s only partially done but it looks like at least another lane both ways is needed already. Something like 50,000 new homes in that area being built recently and in the near future.

see if you can get them to double what you want to cope.
its cheaper in the long run to do it now or at least plan/set aside land etc for later.