Author(s): Justin Brown

NZ Non Fiction

This is Justin Brown's search to find 'the real New Zealand' - the place where number 8 fencing wire fixes everything and sheep run amok. This collection of essays puts some of our most popular myths through a 21st-century reality check with more than a dash of humour. When Justin Brown turned 36 , he stumbled on the fact he had become the average age of a New Zealander. With a wife, two children and a temperamental car, he suddenly became aware he'd become 'average' in other ways too. And of all the things he had aspired to, being average was not one of them. Armed with notebook and guitar, Brown set out to find more about the 'average' Kiwi - and the 'rea'' New Zealand where he (or she) lives. His discoveries are revealed in Myth New Zealand and his collection of songs on the accompanying CD. Along the way, Brown challenged fundamental beliefs such as: Do we really have a number 8 wire mentality - and if so, what do we use if for (apart from fences)? Whatever happened to the 'good keen man'? Where's the new generation of Burt Munro's? Is this still a great place to bring up the kids? And if pavlova is the national dish, why can't you find it in restaurants? Brown's determination to separate myth from reality reveals an hilarious and thought-provoking look at modern New Zealand.