It's been a busy time in Nelson. Last night, two reggae bands - One Vibe and Wicked Draw, and two DJs -RAS Selector and DJ Bird played a benefit concert for us in a local venue, The Phat Club. Lots of the Rainbow Warrior crew, as well as local activists went along. It was very strange to see Wooly's video footage of bottom trawlers - with Greenpeace inflatables zipping around them - playing in big screen at the back of the stage. But thanks to everyone who was involved or attended!
This morning brought torrential rain - not a good situation when we were throwing the boat open to the public. But the population of Nelson are a hardy lot - we were barely finished setting things up when groups of visitors started arriving in their droves.
I love doing open boats - after weeks of communicating by phone and email, it's both exciting and reassuring to be able to discuss the campaign with people. I think it's one of the most important things we do, as an organisation. I had all kinds of conversations with all kinds of people - children, tourists, environmental scientists, old age pensioners, truck drivers, ex-fishermen, school teachers, even a former Rainbow Warrior ship's doctor. They all seemed very well informed about what we have been doing out in the Tasman Sea.
Because of the inclement weather, we had rigged a canopy over the bridge deck, to keep out visitors dry, so they could look at photos of our work, as well as shots of the coral on board the bottom trawler Waipori. A quick explanation of the campaign from Carmen, then it was down onto the main deck for a look at the inflatables, and if it wasn't too wet, a visit to Dave The Dolphin on the bow. Then some of the NZ team were down below, in the hold, showing a video of our work. It was a busy, busy day - and lots of people stayed for ages, chatting. One lady asked me to explain to her sons the story of the bombing of the first Rainbow Warrior twenty years ago - because they wouldn't believe her. It was very strange to deliver a quick talk on the major event in New Zealand industry to a crowd of Kiwis... and me an Irishman!
- Dave
Comments
There is a best fish guide published by NZ Forest & Bird - See the link to it in the main menu above.
Is it possible to access a list of fish varieties to definitely avoid for reason of being target deep trawl varieties, when shopping for a meal? Perhaps along the lines of the red/amber/green lsting system that is in the GE food guide.
Viewed the Rainbow Warrior at dock yesterday and was impressed with her wonderful presence and the many industrious crew at work on board. Best wishes on your travels and campaign
