My heart goes out to Aucklanders. Not a day goes by where they aren’t ridiculed or unfairly blamed by some bigoted hick or envious slickers from other cities. Considering the massive contribution that Aucklanders make to New Zealand, they deserve unwavering respect.
Auckland is the economic powerhouse of New Zealand. It generates the majority of New Zealand’s income and provides much needed stimulus to our economy. They’ve also played a major role in opening up markets to healthy competition. If it wasn’t for Aucklanders, Telecom would still monopolise the mobile phone market. But wise and considerate Aucklanders embraced Vodafone, which keeps Telecom in check from overcharging us.
Despite their capitalist nature, Aucklanders aren’t without a heart. Look at all the Asian immigrants they so kindly house. Auckland provides them with a ‘home away from home’ experience and is doing its bit to help population issues in Asia. They also take the burden of the majority of New Zealand crime, keeping it away from areas that don’t know how to deal with it.
Aucklanders cop a lot of shit because they are seen to get preferential treatment. The majority of roading funds get directed there, they get all of the good concerts, and if an Aucklander’s alarm clock gets reset because of a 10 second power cut it is far worse than if the power is out for two weeks down South. But let’s not forget, Aucklanders are busy, busy people, with 2 hours of traffic to battle each day. Also it would be embarrassing for bands to host gigs in smaller cities that are unlikely to sell out. Aucklanders may be the favourites but there is good reason for that.
Recent talk of moving the capital to Auckland should be given more serious consideration. It is the home of all that is great about New Zealand – so what better place to have the seat of power. Maybe until Auckland is made capital we should start treating them all as if they are Prime Minister – really give them the respect they deserve.