issue 25 2012

issue 25 2012

FEATURE: GUIDE TO GRADUATION + NIGHTMARE JOBS + FIRST YEAR STUDENT REFLECTIONS + YEARLY ROUNDUPS ARTIST of the week | FASHION | REVIEWS | SPORTS

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

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Editorial

Sports The next generation 'The baddest man on the planet'

6 7

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Artist of the week Ramina Rai

AuSM 12 Prez sez 12 AuSM update

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Article Yummy Tummy: Eating for your beach body

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Restaurant review : Cheapest Sushi in town

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Feature Ten things I've learned as a first year

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SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS

Feature Guide to graduation When good jobs go bad

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24 24 25 25 26

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on the cover:

editor Nigel Moffiet nigel.moffiet@aut.ac.nz sub editor Matthew Cattin

ARTICLE Kickstart my heart: The year of games

designer Ceapum Kaushish ceapum.kaushish@aut.ac.nz

COLUMN Insurmountable dilemma Poems The achievement locker Injecting a little happiness A to Z

Caffeinated Banter

contributors Scott Moyes | Scott Yeoman | Deanna Berry | India Hendrikse | Kieran Bennett | Jennifer Choat | Morgahna Godwin | Alanna Caveney | Matthew Cattin | Brooke Pita | Lachlan Hornell | Lusinda Gomes-Sebastiao | Laurene Jooste | Karl Waters | Elesha Edmonds | Robert Vennell

Fashion 28 My year in fashion 30

Letters

31

Chelsea C's It

advertising contact Kate Lin kate.lin@aut.ac.nz printer PMP Print Ltd. publisher

32 Reviews 34

AuSM people

all rights reserved

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This publication is entitled to the full protection given by the Copyright Act 1994 (“the Act”) to the holders of the copyright, being AUCKLAND STUDENT MOVEMENT AT AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY INCORPORATED (“AuSM”). Reproduction, storage or display of any part of this publication by any process, electronic or otherwise (except for the educational purposes specified in the Act) without express permission is a break of the copyright of the publisher and will be prosecuted accordingly.

Inquiries seeking permission to reproduce should be addressed to AuSM.

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disclaimer Material contained in this publication does not necessarily represent the views or opinions of AuSM, its advertisers, contributors, PMP Print or its subsidiaries.

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EDITORIAL

reception and keep your dreams alive; a dream that is usually as simple as having a job above $13.50 an hour.

enjoy this quietly optimistic time of year. I like how the sun starts sneaking in through all the cracks as I consider putting the barbie on for dinner. I like having some leftover daylight in the evening and I like the smell of freshly cut grass as I contemplate the holidays.

As we move on to the last issue of debate for the year, you are also moving onto your last assignments and exams. All the best! And if you’re back at uni next year, I’m sure you’ll make the most of the upcoming break as you revel in a hot Kiwi summer – enjoying some beaches, live music, and quality time with friends and family before returning to your studies for another year.

If, however, the textbooks are done and dusted for good and you’re moving on with a gown and a cap and a little bit of paper that’s supposed to open doors, congratulations. Graduation is a pretty exciting time. I remember feeling energised and anxious all at once during graduation– there is a sense of freedom with the endless possibilities – what should I do with my life now?

As it turned out, for whatever reason, I still found myself working in a dusty factory a year later, covered in cement and mortar – my part-time uni job seamlessly merged into a full time gig and it just occurred to me one day: “Shit! What am I doing?

Let’s get out of here.” And so I did. I spent some time overseas and found it to be just the kick start I needed before returning to AUT for a final year of study.

So ignore that outside pressure and chose your own path. If there is one phrase I hate, it’s the old “you can get into the real world now, son”. What world do you think we’re living in? In fact, I know many of you have been working your asses off with part time jobs and insulting wages just to make it through uni

So where to next? Will you be settling into a job, or will you decide to take the more spontaneous approach by packing a knapsack full of goodies and hitting the road? There’s something pretty romantic about that last option isn’t there? I’m kind of stealing the thunder of Matt’s editorial from last week, but I agree with him: If you’re not sure what to do after uni, be spontaneous.

I stayed the night in a backpacker’s recently, and some of the notices on the message board made me itch with envy. Young tourists (who I’m guessing just finished uni themselves) putting the word out for travel companions to chip in for a rusty old van and some gas money in order to spend weeks travelling around New Zealand. Pretty grand idea if you ask me.

However, “getting back to the real world”, in this issue of debate ,we pay homage to those ridiculous jobs many of you might relate to – have you ever had to dress up in a fluffy costume, flap your arms about and sing silly songs in order to pay the rent and make it to class the next day? Okay, we’re having a little bit of a bitch – but it’s also a bit of a laugh and a good yarn while letting off some steam. Perhaps it’s the kick you need to quit your smelly part time uni job and do something a little bit special. Hey man, soon you’ll have a pot belly, you’ll have more mouths to feed than just your own, and you’ll have a nagging spouse telling you to change the channel while complaining that you’ve had too much to drink.

City Campus Level 2, WC Building 921 9805 Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm Fri8am-4pm North Shore Campus Level 2, AS Building 921 9949 Mon-Fri: 11am-1pm Manukau Campus MB107 921 9999 ext 6672 Mon-Thurs; 9am-3.30pm

governance & leadership Kizito Essuman AuSM Student President 921 9999 ext 8571 kizito.essuman@aut.ac.nz

management

Sue Higgins General Manager 921 9999 ext 5111 sue.higgins@aut.ac.nz

advocacy

Nick Buckby Liaison Manager 921 9999 ext 8379 nick.buckby@aut.ac.nz

And lastly, thanks for picking up debate during the year and having a read. And thanks to everyone who’s been a part of it and taken the time to contribute. The more students involved the better.

If you haven’t contributed yet, have a think over the holidays and make sure to email through some stories next year. Chur.

marketing

- Nigel.

events

Kate Lin Sales and Marketing Co-ordinator 921 9999 ext 8909 kate.lin@aut.ac.nz Carl Ewen Student Life Manager 921 9999 ext 8931 carl.ewen@aut.ac.nz

LETTERS

media

Dear debate, About finding your identities, I find it hard to believe that learning your own language is the best way to know yourself. I personally think it’s about how you are brought up. I am a Thai girl who's adopted to European parents from France and New Zealand; at three weeks old. I have been to Thailand quite a few times, but did not find myself relating to any of the Thai culture, language, heritage simply because I was not brought up that way. My view on identity is who you are and what you do, not based on your race/religion.

For example, I dress like American/Australian/European people instead of Thai dressing, don't have a Thai type of household (got what typically upper middle class families like such as persian rugs, old antiques and so on) and don't eat Thai food every night, however love the food especially with hot chili!

Oh, and after I was adopted my parents were renting a place in the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok which is not traditionally Thai - this is simply upper middle class hotels for white people mainly, being served

by Thai maids and hostesses.

Sirani

Nigel Moffiet Publications Co-ordinator 921 9999 ext 8774 nigel.moffiet@aut.ac.nz

sports

Melita Martorana Sports Team Leader melita.martorana@aut.ac.nz

vesbar

Zane Chase Vesbar Manager 921 9999 ext 8378 zane.chase@aut.ac.nz

volunteers & clubs

For more letters go to page 30

Letter of the week wins two VELVET BURGER TICKETS debate letters policy: Letters need to make it into debate’s mailbox before Wednesday, 3pm each week for the following issue. You must give us your name when submitting letters to be eligible for letter of the week, but you can use a pseudonym for publication if you wish. Any letters longer than 250 words may be subjected to editing. The editor reserves the right to decline without explanation. Most importantly, the views contained on the letters page do not necessarily represent the views of AuSM. Send your letters to debate@aut.ac.nz or if you want to kick it old school, PO Box 6116, Wellesley St, Auckland.

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Deanna Berry Volunteers Coordinator 921 9999 ext 8911 deanna.berry@aut.ac.nz

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SPORTS

ISSUE 25 2012

by Scott Moyes

So this is the last issue of debate before everyone buggers off.

Some of you will be off on your four month’s break. Others will be preparing for summer school. But if you’re like me, you’re wondering where the last three years of your life went and are preparing to graduate. So in the spirit of new beginnings, I’ve singled out 10 of New Zealand’s brightest sporting prospects in no particular order and hope they’ll continue to flourish in the future. And lastly, thanks to anyone who has read any of my stuff over the past three years. Whether you thought it was shit or not, cheers for not sending me hate mail. Or at least, thanks to my editors who never showed it to me.

Kieran Foran

Kane Williamson

Williamson is only 22, but it feels like he has been around for at least 10 years.

It’s a testament to his maturity as a player. Williamson is one of the few shining lights in the current Black Caps team. He is regarded by teammates as someone who practices intensely, which is understandable given his near perfect technique. Williamson is often compared to Martin Crowe and will surely be the next captain of the team when Ross Taylor calls it a day.

Kieran Foran

At just 22 years of age, Kieran Foran is one of the hottest pieces of property in the NRL. The Manly Sea Eagles’ five-eighth has already played 76 first grade matches and seven tests. He was influential in the Sea Eagles’ 2011 Premiership win and doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon. He plays with physicality and aggression; traits every coach appreciates.

Thomas Abercrombie

Abercrombie was a pivotal member of the 2010-11 New Zealand Breakers who won the NBL Championship that year.

Abercrombie also received the honour of being named the recipient of the Larry Sengstock Medal as the finals series Most Valuable Player. He also stepped up the following season in the absence of Kirk Penny to help the Breakers defend their NBL title. A move to the NBA has been mentioned, but probably remains unlikely.

The one who has been getting all of the attention lately. Lydia is currently the top ranked female amateur golfer in the world at just 15 years of age.

More impressively, she became the youngest ever person to win a professional golf tournament earlier in 2012. Golf may not be as highly regarded as other sports in New Zealand, but Lydia is making serious waves around the world.

Jacko Gill

In 2010, Jacko Gill won the gold medal at the Junior Athletics Championships for shot put. He was just 15 years and 213 days old. He became the youngest winner in history at these championships, surpassing the record that Ussain Bolt previously held. Gill defended his title in 2012, and shapes as an Olympic champion of the future.

Aaron Smith

This guy has taken every opportunity and made it a winner in 2012. The 23-year-old made his All Blacks debut in June after his good form for the Highlanders. He got a start in the number nine jersey ahead of Piri Weepu against Ireland and hasn’t looked back.

Smith has added enthusiasm and energy to the scrum-half position and doesn’t appear to be highly threatened in the starting line-up. A highly successful career awaits.

Chris Wood

Chris may not be a household name yet, but it probably won’t be long before he is. At just 20 years of age, he is only the fifth New Zealander in history to play in England’s Premier League. Signing with West Bromwich, he has been loaned out here there and everywhere and has already made 27 appearances for the All Whites.

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Image by paddynapper via Flickr.com

Image by paddynapper via Flickr.com

Lydia Ko

Sean Johnson

Shaun Johnson

Every sporting franchise needs a player with X-factor to draw the crowds.

For the Warriors, that man in Shaun Johnson. Many people were skeptical about how Johnson would handle the pressure of first-grade football.

However, with his electric speed and footwork, he seems to be handling the spotlight just fine.

Lisa Carrington

Lisa rocketed into New Zealand’s media spotlight with her gold medal effort in the K-1 200 metres in London. She also set an Olympic record time in her semifinal and claimed the gold medal at the World Championships the year before. At just 23-years of age, there’s something honest and refreshing about Lisa. No doubt we’ll be seeing plenty more of her in years to come.

Julian Savea

The 105kg, 22-year-old winger could be something very special for the All Blacks. He appears abundant in natural talent, power and speed. However, it’s still very early days. He made an early impression by scoring a hat-trick on debut against Ireland earlier in the year.

But I’m not going to jinx it by comparing him to a certain other All Blacks winger of days gone by.

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SPORTS

by Scott Yeoman one of those being the first man to bite the ear off another in the ring.

(That one is my personal favourite, and it seems like Bulldogs player and England international James Graham is also a bit of a fan).

I once read somewhere that acting crazier than your opponent in a street fight can go a very long way towards who comes out on top.

Not really sure why I remember that, I’m not much of a back-street brawler myself, but I suddenly remembered it while I was writing this article.

The reason for that is because it seems to me that every fight was a street fight to Mike Tyson, and judging by his unbelievable record, his frequent disregard for the rules of boxing, and his knack for acting beyond crazy, that little observation or ‘theory’ could be worth more than a just a bit.

You’re welcome.

With 58 fights altogether, he won 50 (44 of those being knock outs), lost only six, and had two no contests. He was the youngest world heavyweight champion of the world at 20 years of age, which is both mind-blowing and a bit depressing, and has a whole heap of other insane records,

Iron Mike is one of the more ‘interesting’ characters in the sporting world and that is something not up for debate - with his passion and obsession with pigeons, his creepy high voice, and his ability to punch a hole through your stomach (okay that one was exaggerated BUT he was ranked number one in ESPN’s list of “The hardest hitters in heavyweight history”, so I’m probably not far off).

When I found out he was coming to New Zealand for his touring show “Mike Tyson’s day of champions”, I was all over it.

Now before you judge me I will explain.

For those that don’t know, Tyson was sentenced to six years in jail for the rape of an 18 year-old girl.

He claims it was consensual but a testimony by his chauffer and a convincing medical examination taken soon after showed it to be the complete opposite.

He was released from jail after three years and continued to dominate the sport. Ever

since then, this rape conviction has been one of the most hotly debated and covered topics by sporting fans, media and the world-wide public alike.

So when New Zealand recently cancelled his visa, meaning he is unable to enter the country and do his show, I kind of understood, but was still devastatingly disappointed.

There are a dozen different sides to the argument; some say there are worse people living in New Zealand so why not let him, some point to the fact that his criminal conviction was a very long time ago and that he’s a new man, a religious man even, and some question the rape conviction altogether.

But me...I just want to sit for two hours and hear what has to be one of the most fascinating men in the world tell a story that would be up there with Charlie Sheen’s demise (I wonder if he would be allowed in the country?)

I don’t know if there is any possibility a visa could be re-granted to allow the ‘baddest man on the planet’ make his way to little old New Zealand later in the year.

If not, I will be hosting a street fighting seminar at Vector Arena on the 15th of November.

A win/win situation really.

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268 Queen St (opposite Smith and Caughey’s) Yum...Cookies just like Grandma used to bake!

Also visit Mrs Higgins Cookie Shop, Food Court, Hunters Plaza, Papatoetoe

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ISSUE 25 2012

ARTIST OF THE WEEK

Ramina Rai Hello! My name's Ramina Rai. I'm studying Graphic Design and majoring in Pictorial Design. This year I've been focusing mainly on contemporary fashion illustration & photography, and my end of year project is based around fashion branding.

I love working with portraiture, and incorporating dream-like themes into my pieces. I work mainly with pencils, watercolours, digital and film photography.

If you'd like to see more of my work, check out my blog!

http://peachlovehearts. blogspot.co.nz

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ARTIST OF THE WEEK

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ISSUE 25 2012

YOU COULD MAKE A BUCKETLOAD OF DIFFERENCE. ‘This year AuSM is excited to partner with the Samaritan's Purse to create a drop-off location for Operation Christmas Child. Come into any AuSM office to pick up a shoe box and fill it with toys, gifts, necessities for children in the South Pacific for Christmas! You choose the gender and age of the child you are buying for, then bring your shoe box back to your closest AuSM Office by Oct 18th. Get involved and give the simple gift of joy!

PLEASE COLLECT FOR OUR ANNUAL PAWS STREET APPEAL, 9 – 11 NOVEMBER. A couple of hours of your time could make a bucketload of difference to animals throughout Auckland. We urgently need collectors for our annual street appeal. So please visit our website and register. Or you can be a virtual collector by getting your school or workplace involved.

Any questions, contact Deanna; dberry@ aut.ac.nz’

Register now at: spca.org.nz or call 09 256 2520

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AuSMConnect_A3.pdf

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Prez Sez

ISSUE 25 2012

AuSM Student President

Hi Debate readers, We are already in week 12 of the second semester. Most of you are probably flat out exhausted studying for exams and or doing your final projects/assignments.

Well I have good news for you: AuSM is rolling our usual ‘Destress’ programme on campus during the revision period.

We want to help you de-stress during the busy study week for exams so we are providing hot drinks and other brain-food to help get you prepared for the final two weeks of the semester.

They say nothing has value that is easily won and this applies to exams as well. I have something for you, especially those who want to acquire some strategies to fight exams stress. It is a free e-book by Will Stringer that can be downloaded from www. bookboon.com. The title is “Strategies to Fight Exam Stress & Achieve Success”.

It is important to note that these recommended strategies may not work for everyone.

You may have seen an ad in debate or flyers being given out around campus asking you

to hop online and fill out the annual AuSM online survey. So far we have had a reasonable response and while the feedback we have been getting is good, we definitely need more of it. This survey will help shape AuSM in regards to the services we will provide you in the future.

This includes everything from the events you see on campus, what you read in debate, to the clubs, sports and many other great services we provide. Please take few minutes of your time to complete the survey. Don’t forget there are a number of great spot prizes up for grabs including Apple’s new iPad, Sennheiser earphones, passes to the Bay of Islands, and a Cooler Master portable rechargeable battery port. Visit www.ausm.org.nz for more information.

Lastly, thank you to everyone who attended the AuSM Special General Meeting (SGM) last Monday. We had a great turn out with the 2013 proposed budget getting approved, and the vacant positions on the 2013 AuSM executive council being filled.

Don’t forget, if you didn’t get a chance to stand for a position in the 2012 election or you were not successful, remember there is always another time. The nomination period will be open again in late semester one next year for the 2014 positions.

Have a great week everyone!

Kizito Essuman AuSM Prez

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Thank you

It’s hard to believe that this is the last issue of debate for 2012! AuSM would like to say a big thanks to our wonderful editor, Nigel, for producing a great year of debate and our fantastic designer, Ceapum, for making it look amazing!

De-Stress Week

Pamper time! Let us relieve a bit of that preexam stress for you! AuSM will provide some light snacks on each campus this week! Check out the AuSM@AUT Facebook page and twitter/ausm1 to find out more!

AuSM Survey 2012

Have you checked out our online survey yet?

Help us make AuSM better next year and we have heaps of amazing prizes for you to win! A new iPad, passes to the Bay of Islands, Sennheiser earphones and portable power backup ports! It takes less than five minutes to complete the survey!

Visit now! http://tiny.cc/ausm2012survey

Vote for the AuSM Award!

This week is the last week for you to vote in for the awesome AUT lecturers and support staff awards! Find the voting link at www.ausm.org. nz or follow the quick link: http://tiny.cc/ausmawards

AuSM together with Operation Christmas Child

Three more days before we send away gifts and necessities for children in the South Pacific for Christmas in the shoe box! Come to our office and get one if you are keen. AuSM has partnered with the Samaritan's Purse to create a drop-off location for Operation Christmas Child. Remember to bring back the shoe box to your closest AuSM Office by Oct 18th. Get involved and give the simple gift of joy! Any questions, contact Deanna: dberry@aut.ac.nz

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Article

YUMMY TUMMY

Eating for your Beach Bod

By Deanna Berry

1. Q: How often should you do intense cardio exercises each week to lose fat? a) 1 time b) 2 times c) 3 times d) 4 times 2. Q: Which of the following exercises can help get rid of belly fat? a) Pull-ups b) Push-ups c) Squats d) All of the Above 3. Q: Which of the following cardiovascular exercises is good for slimming your mid-section? a) Walking b) Swimming c) Cycling d) All of the above 4. Q: True or false: Drinking water can help you lose a bloated belly?

True False 5. Q: True or false: Interval training is not an effective way to lose belly fat.

True False

Regardless of what it is doing outside, the calendar does say that summer is right around the corner! It’s time for the extra winter layers to be shed. But before you pull out the short shorts and belly tops, get your mid-section sorted for the season. Core strength isn’t just for the ultimate beach bod, it is essential for bodily functions, posture, stability and reduces your chances of back injuries. Exercise, cardio and strength training all contribute to your core strength, but it is also important to realise that abs aren’t just made at the gym, abs are made in the kitchen!

Take this belly burning quiz and note all of the awesome foods that can help you look and feel your best.

Load up on these Ab FAB Foods!

BEANS - They’ll keep you full, and are high in resistant starch, meaning that half the calories consumed cannot be absorbed. They also reduce blood sugar, and create the fatty acid butyrate, which may burn fat faster.

PINE NUTS - They contain pinolenic acid, a naturally occurring fat that stimulates hormones that alert the brain that you are full.

FENNEL - Known for its cleansing, clarifying flavour that helps reset taste buds and reduces cravings.

APPLES - Soluble fiber in apples, called pectin, reduces the amount of sugar and calories that’s absorbed into the bloodstream after a meal.

6. Q: True or false: You can get rid of belly fat by reducing stress.

True False

MONOSATURATED FATS - Found in nuts, olive oil and seeds, MUFAS are healthy sources of energy to keep you going all day long.

7. Q: True or false: Getting a good night’s sleep can reduce belly fat.

True False

VINEGAR - Slows the absorption of carbohydrates and prevents sudden surges in your

8. Q: What should you avoid in order to get rid of belly fat? a) Refined carbohydrates b) Trans fats c) Simple sugars d) All of the above

blood sugar. It also slows the passage of food through your stomach, keeping you fuller for longer.

CINNAMON - This delicious spice slows the passage of food through your stomach. It also lowers your blood sugar levels by stimulating glucose metabolism.

CHIA SEEDS - These guys are super high in soluble fibre which, in addition to filling you up, has cholesterol-lowering properties and prevents the absorption of fat.

GREEN TEA - It can help prevent storage of excess fat, improve your appetite-regulating hormones and change how your body handles cravings and metabolizes food.

PUMPKIN SEEDS - High in omega-3 fatty acids, these seeds have been shown to decrease the body’s ability to store fat. They’re also high in protein and magnesium which helps curb cravings and strengthen muscles.

ANSWERS: 1. c | 2. d | 3. d | 4. true | 5. false | 6. true | 7. true | 8. d For more info and the full quiz, go to http://www.doctoroz.com/ quiz/ways-lose-belly-fat

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ISSUE 25 2012

Correctly identify the five differences in the two photos then circle them and drop your entry into your nearest AuSM office, or the box on the side of the red debate stands, or post to debate PO Box 6116 Wellesley St before 12pm Thursday.

What’s up for grabs? Two “squawk burgers” vouchers for Velvet Burger on Fort St, Auckland CBD.

CONGRATULATIONS!!

to our issue 23 winner

Caroline C. Marshall

1. True or False: Portugal shares a land border with France?

City Campus

image by Steven2005 via flicker.com

2. In Maori mythology, what is Tama-nui-tera the personification of?

3. Stilton cheese originates from which country?

4. Which magazine dubbed Mila Kunis the ‘sexist woman alive’ in their November 2012 issue?

5. What is the capital of Pakistan?

6. What degree did Prime Minister John Key attain at Canterbury University?

7. Is Hawera north or south of Whanganui?

8. When is Halley’s comet expected to be seen again from Earth?

9. In NPC Rugby, which region on NZ do the Magpies represent?

10. What date is the upcoming United States election?

WORD JUMBLE KPCAECO

Name Phone # Email Campus

How many words of three letters or more can you make during your lecture from the letters above?

(6-8 average, 9-11 good, 12 or more - excellent) *Answers on page 26

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Dear dopey Getting a good night’s sleep is something we often take for granted, until something goes wrong. Not being able to sleep can be extremely stressful as we lie awake worrying about what we have to do the next day and how we are going to do it with little sleep. Stress and depression can be a cause of having trouble sleeping, but also, not getting enough sleep can contribute to increasing stress and depression. It is really important to get this problem sorted as soon as possible as plenty of sleep (approximately 8 hours per night) is critical to maximising mental and physical health.

The following tips may help-get into a routine of going to bed at a certain time most nights, as this helps your brain to get into the habit of shutting down at a specific time; and don’t make it too late. Often if you know you have plenty of time to sleep, you will relax more and sleep more soundly.

-make sure you get plenty of exercise during the day- at least a half to 1 hour of brisk exercise, preferably outside in the sunshine/ fresh air.

Dear Agony Aunt

-make sure your bedroom is quiet and cosy. Don’t watch TV in bed, turn off the radio, and keep warm.

I am having trouble sleeping. I go to sleep very late at night, wake up a few times a night and then wake at least an hour before my alarm goes off. I have tried lots of things to relax me like quitting caffeine, listening to music before bed and stopped reading before I sleep but nothing seems to help. I need my sleep, I look like a zombie.

- chose quiet activities before going to bed, like reading or listening to relaxing music. Don’t watch violent and/or stressful TV programmes in the late evening.

Dopey

- avoid caffeine (watch those cans of V and other ‘Energy drinks’, they are full of caffeine and sugar), alcohol and smoking in the evening.

- when you wake up in the night and can’t go back to sleep readily, don’t just lie there getting frustrated, get up and read a book , preferably a slightly boring one (one of your text books should do nicely!) and maybe have a hot drink as above.

-If you feel that you have tried all this, then it would be a good idea to see one of the counsellors (free) at Health, Counselling and Wellbeing as they have some great ideas for stress control. Sometimes just talking over any background worries you may have, can really help. It is important to work out some strategies to deal with a hassle like not sleeping, because this can crop up all through your life and anything you learn now could be a huge help in the future.

The other option is to see a doctor, either your GP or one of the doctors at Health and Counselling and Wellbeing. Sometimes a short dose of mild sleeping pills can help to break the cycle of sleeplessness if you have tried all the measures above.

Cheap eats for students: restaurant review - By India Hendrikse

The cheapest sushi in town It is popular at any time of day, it serves one of the healthiest of fast-foods, and it is literally a one minute walk from AUT. You can’t go wrong with St Pierres sushi.

If you get too fancy, then sure, sushi will be a bank breaking meal. If you look out for the special deals though, then St Pierres can offer satisfying and healthy food, without being too pricey. Every day of the week, St Pierres runs their ‘Sushi of the day’ offer, where a famished student can grab 8 pieces for just $5.40. Most sushi places around town average out at about $1 per piece of sushi, so this deal is comparatively incredible.

My personal favourite is the Teriyaki Chicken on Monday’s. The chicken is not the copiously battered type either, which is a plus for people who want to actually look after their hearts. While many sushi places seem to serve dried up rice that has been sitting out all day, warmed from the sun rather than warmed by freshness, St Pierres is so busy, that all the products are as fresh-as-can-be.

While St Pierres is just a takeaway eatery, located near the corner of Symonds Street and St Paul Street, Albert park is just a light stroll away. I recommend buying a packet of sushi, nabbing yourself some chopsticks, and going to soak up the sun by the fountain in the park.

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ARTICLE

ISSUE 25 2012

01

Ten Things I’ve learned 02 as a First Year 03

By Kieran Bennett

Coming to the end of my first year (almostgrown-up) as a university student, I thought I should take some time to sit back, light my pipe, button my tweed jacket and gaze at the estate while pondering on what I’ve learned over the course of the year.

Of course, I’m talking about things I haven’t learned in class, so don’t throw the magazine away in fear of yet another lesson on interpersonal communication.

High School really doesn’t matter This is in no way a call for all students to abandon high school; but seriously, it doesn’t matter. No one cares what teams you were in, they don’t exist anymore. No one cares what you got in your exams; you’re already at university so it just doesn’t matter. By all means tell funny stories, but keep the details to yourself.

Real life requires you to work hard This was a sad lesson to learn quite early. It is just not possible to coast by on no effort whatsoever; you do need to actually work. I was, frankly, crushed when I found out.

Sleep is for the weak I used to go to bed at 10 or 10.30 every night. This is because I “thought I needed it”. As it turns out, I don’t need it. I am perfectly capable of staying up until 12 every night with no ill effects whatsoever.

As a result, I have unfortunately turned into a pathological liar.

04

There are a lot of people in this world who are far smarter than I’ll ever be This was a difficult lesson to accept, I must say. As it turns out, many people in this world possess much more intelligence than me. I think the less said on that the better.

05

If it exists, someone wrote a paper on it From the average length of a table leg to the social implications of how much flour you put in your biscuits, everything in the world has been subject to some sort of study at one time or another.

06

My time-management sucks Seeing as this article is being written on the day I’m supposed to hand it in, this speaks for itself.

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ARTICLE

Paper is actually crafted from unicorn horns and printer ink is made from their tears

07

If it’s not, it should be. The amount of money I burned through before I discovered the joys of free printing in the tower. I’m thinking, with the prices that are charged to fuse these two things together, I should be able to get an actual unicorn.

08

Exams blow, whatever level they are No matter where, no matter when: exams suck. You get placed in a room with a pen and paper and are expected to ralph up a semester’s worth of knowledge. In three hours. By hand. It’s a cruel and unusual punishment for finishing a semester.

09

Having a job is the most vicious double edged sword The obvious benefits of having money are only somewhat outweighed by the clear torture of actually having a job and having to work. The most obvious answer to the question, “why do you want to work here?” is of course, “I don’t, I just want your money”.

10

Public Transport. What the fuck?

Jennifer Choat

COMICS

I would plan all my appointments and my life itself around the public transport system but this means that I would not only be five minutes late for everything for the rest of my life but there would also be a 50 per cent chance that I would clean not turn up. Or alternatively, just go to the wrong place entirely and deny all knowledge of having done so.

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ISSUE 25 2012

social SocialMedia Media

Social Media

Morgahna Godwin It's time to round out the year in social media.

Let's begin with the biggest WTF of all - KONY. KONYAUCKLAND2012 @KONYAUCKLAND “To those planning to purchase posters/action kits from the website, it takes up to 4 weeks to get here to NZ, so get ordering now!!”

As grandma would say, "It's the thought that counts".

-Auto correct really proved its worth to the world Chris Brain @Chris_Brain “I hope the inventor of autocorrect burns in he'll” -Temple Run became a form of escapism.

AWA @Awa_1 “I got 4,353,125 points while escaping from demon monkeys in Temple Run.” -Benji Madden made a life changing mistake.

Benji Madden @benjaminmadden “Just found out that the necklace I’ve been wearin for 10 yrs is just anal beads.

Heartbroken.”

-Taylor Swift hopped of the plane at ALK with a dream in her jer-sey (that was a shit attempt at rhyming).

Dominic Harvey @DomHarvey #Swiftwatch “Taylor dined at Mudbrick on Waiheke Island last night. Took the Fullers Ferry over, too. Thats so kiwi (and very frugal haha)”

Perez Hilton @PerezHilton @kimbramusic “Rock n roll!!!!!! Love you!”

-Patrick Gower @patrickgowernz “Nick smith has resigned” Nuff said.

-Someone decided it would be a great idea to make "The Hunger Games" a movie.

Jezebel Dodai @jezebeldodai “midnight hunger games!!! i dont even care that I'm the oldest one here except for someone's mom!!!”

Katy Perry @katyperry “Ball so hard mother F's wanna fine meh.”

-Bieber also made his way to New Zealand.

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feral_pigeon @feral_pigeon “panic! fly and land three feet away”

Then Gaga made it to New Zealand

-Janine & the Mixtape put out their first single (they're going to be massive).

Janine & the Mixtape @Janine_Mixtape “THE SINGLE AND VIDEO IS OUT TODAY WOOOOOOOOOOOO It will be premiered on FOUR TV between 4.30-6pm (around 5)”

Lady Gaga @ladygaga “I'm having a blast in New Zealand!! the last couple shows have felt like festivals. Just so free, wild, happy. What music is all about it.”

-YOLO became 'a thing'

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Katy Perry @katyperry “My costume for tomorrow's premiere performance is so yolo.”

Hologram Tupac was born

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Hologram Tupac @HologramTupac “I never let em play me for a busta, make it HTML 4 a hustla.”

Khloe Kardashian said what we were all thinking

-Magic mushroom education from Lady Gaga Lady Gaga @ladygaga “Jet lag last night was like bad shrooms. When my dad asked what that meant I told him it’s like being in a musical you don't want to be in.”

-We called her, she said maybe.

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Carly Rae Jepsen @ carlyraejepsen “Flying to New Zealand! First time.”

Kimbra and Gotye also went worldwide…

Kate Rodger @MsKateRodger “Driving along LA freeway listening to the driver sing along (badly) to Kimbra & Gotye on the radio. Got the feeling he was a fan#number1hit”

florence welch @flo_tweet “Hahahahahajahahahahh slut dropping is deffo my new favorite phrase/dancemove/ lifestyle....x”

The pigeons kept doing what they always do

Shit got real

Jay-Z and Kanye's 'N**gas in Paris went worldwide

Florence hit New Zealand. Like a boss.

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Katy Perry @katyperry “I think I might have cried when I saw Tupac. #coachella”

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Justin Bieber @justinbieber “on friday in BERLIN im doing a special acoustic performance at the BILD office...and oh yeah Im going to New Zealand on July 19th!!#BUNGEE”

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Hustle Man @ImTracyMorgan “I hate when ugly people say "I need my beauty sleep" Bitch you need to hibernate.”

Dominic Harvey @DomHarvey “I'm as keen as the next bloke when it comes to a danger wank but this man is just nasty! #Target”

-Some guy on Target got really nasty in someone’s living room

*All images taken from twitter

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Khloé KardashianOdom @ KhloeKardashian “If I were a boy.... Dick pics would be out of control” -Miley Cyrus did a bit of a Britney and cut all her hair off.

Miley Ray Cyrus @MileyCyrus “Never felt more me in my whole life ” Tyler, The Creator @fucktyler @mileycyrus “Your Barber Is An Asshole.”

-And lastly a Korean guy called PSY gave birth to something called Gangnam Style. I'm still unsure how to feel about that.

TED @TedInRealLife “Who needs Swag when you have Gangnam Style?”

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FEATURE

Dress to impress:

Guide to Graduation

By Alanna Caveney

3

You didn't just spend three or more years and thousands upon thousands of dollars to walk up on that stage looking like the creature from the black lagoon. Check if there is a dress code, as you don't want to arrive just to be told to leave immediately and only return when you're wearing something appropriate. No jean shorts, no jandals, but absolutely always a bra. Consider the weather.

Don't wear white if it's going to pour down as you're walking to the venue (or don't wear white at all). Choose nice, but relatively comfortable shoes that are of a reasonable height (ladies, the last thing we need is you sprawled on the floor with a broken ankle). However, don't overdress.

This isn't your wedding. Leave the white floor length dress at home.

And the veil.

No morning drinking:

We all understand it's a time for celebration, and is most likely the only time you're going to graduate, but shots of tequila with beer chasers for breakfast is not a good idea, no matter what your friends say. The last place you want to be is swaying at the top of those stairs, waiting to stagger towards your degree and all the while suppressing your sudden urge to vomit everywhere.

You really don't want those precious few photos of you on stage to show a crazed hobo with static hair and clown make-up. Leave the drinking for AFTER the ceremony. It's not like you have uni tomorrow morning...

Control your emotions:

School’s out kids! It’s time to parrtay. But first thing’s first – we have to graduate. One golden rule: don’t kick into coma inducing proceedings too early – at least have the ability (and dignity) to stumble upon the stage and collect your degree like a noble student and future leader. Here are a few other helpful tips to follow during this epic moment of academic glory.

Stress can be a funny thing. It can make you want to scream, cry, laugh, and punch someone all at once.

But before you start uncontrollably sobbing in the aisle for whatever reason, remember graduation is meant to be a happy day. It's a day for celebration, not for yelling at people and refusing to leave because you can't find your nose stud (I never did that, I swear). Keep calm and carry on, as they say. Breathe, pull yourself together, put on a smile and enjoy yourself. When you're looking back on your graduation day in the future, you want to remember happy memories of a day you’ll never forget, not being locked in a bathroom stall at the venue hyperventilating.

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Don't treat it like a sports game:

Firstly, I'm not saying don't cheer for your fellow graduates. I'm just saying there's a fine line between showing your support and making a complete fool of yourself. Cat calls, wolf whistles, chanting, these are all unnecessary habits that people tend to get into when cheering someone on. If in doubt, just don't. If you are chewing gum and the whole auditorium can hear you, I have the right to come back there and rip the gum from you. If we wanted to hear that, we'd go hang out in a field with the cows. Please, and I am speaking from personal experience, do not under any circumstances think that it's normal or funny to try and start “the wave” with the other graduates every 10 seconds. If you want to get thrown out, go right ahead. Don't drag others down with you.

Keep quiet:

Remember, this isn't the Oscars. You are not there to give an acceptance speech. If that was a formal part of the ceremony, they would be six hours long instead of two. We get it, you're graduating and you're proud. We're graduating too, and we managed to walk that 20 second length across the stage and keep our mouths shut. People you appreciate understand already that you appreciate them. Take the time afterwards to go to them personally and thank them face to face. And for the love of all that is holy, don't take the microphone from the speaker and proceed to rap “YO YO check it, this is your boy Kid Fresh and I just wanna s-”, at which point you will probably be tackled by venue security and removed.

Party hard:

Once the formalities of the day are done, throw that cap to the sky and head to the bar. It's probably best to hand your gown and other regalia over to your family to take with them though. The last thing you need is to wake up the next day, and slowly realise that the faint smell of burning is coming from the smouldering pile of material in the corner of the room, and then remember you thought it was a good idea to light your gown on fire to celebrate finally being free from university.

Feature

ISSUE 25 2012

When good jobs go bad: The life of a parttime worker

You know that classic old people saying “it’s better than a kick up the backside!”? Well I hate it. Seniors always crack it out when you complain about going to work and in their ignorant and delusional old age, they think they are both being hilarious and making a valid point. And I guess sometimes they are; I also get frustrated when people bitch and moan about having a perfectly good job to go to, one that pays well and isn’t too taxing. But there are some jobs that I would definitely rather opt for the kick up the backside than attend. At least a kick up the backside doesn’t make you feel like the clock is tormenting you. It doesn’t hurt as much as the humiliation of dancing in front of spoilt children or being rudely awakened at 3am. So next time an old person tries to give you some sound advice, send them to your work with a kick up the backside, they’ll quickly learn which they prefer.

"I came so close to bitch slapping their chubby little faces with my feathered wings of fury."

"I did try to dance at one point during the song, but I don’t know if you could call it dancing or convulsing. Either way, no-one was entertained!" "...when you're beginning to go through the stage in life where you start wanting people to notice you, smelling like bread and bleach all day is not cute. "

My bobbly penguin nightmare

By Matthew Cattin

W

hen a PR student asked me if I’d be interested in working at an aquarium, it was a dream come true.

It was just for one day, it was $15 an hour and it didn’t sound like hard work – dressing up as an emperor penguin at the aquarium during the school holidays. But you know… I’ve been wrong before. So here was the deal: I had to dress up as a penguin while another guy handed out Aunt Betty’s coupons and balloons. When we ran out of balloons, we had to gap it back to the staff room and blow up more, dreading the next onslaught of crazed children.

Thankfully, we swapped roles a few times – otherwise, I’m not sure I would have made it out alive.

My first issue was that the suit was about 40 degrees, so naturally, I had to strip off to avoid dying. And once I had the bobbly penguin head on, my peripheral vision completely disappeared - it was like looking through pinholes. To top off the nightmare, I had floppy wings for arms and puffy webbed slippers on, making it damn near impossible to walk, let alone run away from the pale rats that swarmed me. It was fricken horrible, the kids went absolutely mental. Not since Jesus have so many people tried to hug a stranger. Kids were just running at me, nearly bowling me over.

My vision was so bad that I never saw them coming until they were right there, hugging my waist or legs just screaming. Oh the screaming… Make it stop…

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Some bastard children even tried to knock of my penguin head and others tried to fight me. I came so close to bitch slapping their chubby little faces with my feathered wings of fury. One lady actually handed over her baby for a photo. I couldn’t say no because that would have destroyed the illusion so there I was shaking my head and trying to push off the irresponsible mother’s advances. I have never felt so alien yet, at the same time, so celebrated!

Everybody just wanted a piece of my hot tail feather. And the whole time, I kept thinking “if only they knew the truth…”, that beneath this penguin suit was a sweaty, hairy teenager in nought but his boxers. I kept imagining what would happen should the penguin suit fall off, blowing my disguise. All that would be left is a half-naked shell of the penguin they thought they could trust.

My darkest moment was when I lost my partner. With pinhole vision, I was slowly wandering around in a circle, dying of heat exhaustion and a solid lump rising in my throat, like fish ready to be regurgitated. What felt like 10 minutes, I searched (probably just one minute in reality) until I finally found him. I nearly cried out of exhaustion and relief as he led me back to the staff room. Even just remembering it makes me sweat… So all in all, the worst job I have ever had. Thank you Vicky!

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Feature

Working as a convulsive chipmunk dancer

By Brooke Pita One of these tasks included dressing up in a chipmunk suit, dancing for the kids while they sang happy birthday and hugging them afterwards. She said every worker had to do it - except for the cook and whoever was at the cash register of course.

A

n occupation which requires you to be tackled by kids while being forced to dance for them in an oversized chipmunk suit would deter most job seekers I’m sure.

Unfortunately, I didn’t know such things would take place before I got my first job working at a children’s playland centre.

I got the job when I was about 15. My mum took my cousins to playland and ended up in a conversation with the manager. Apparently they were looking for a new worker.

Mum set up a time for me to have a trial work day for them in the weekend. All I had to do that day was collect all the dirty dishes from tables and put them in the dish-washer. Easy enough I thought. I got the job at the end of the day.

When I arrived at the centre ready for my first real work day, one of the long-serving workers explained to me what other tasks I was required to do while working there.

I am quite a shy person, so I cringed at the thought of dancing like a crazy chipmunk in front of a co-worker and a big group of people including both children and their parents. Unfortunately, I was desperate for a job, and having no previous work experience I settled for working as a chipmunk. There were about four workers, including me, who took turns wearing the suit. I was a nervous wreck the first time I was told to put it on. Not only am I shy, but I DO NOT dance.

Nevertheless, I slipped on the suit and walked into the party room full of redfaced screaming kids while my co-worker took the birthday cake in.

My heart was pounding against my chest as I waited for everyone to sing happy birthday. And once they started, I just froze. I’m usually the person who never says anything at school, so I was so overwhelmed by suddenly being expected to dance in front of a big group of people.

It was humiliating. The kids and their parents just stood there staring with blank faces. I did try to dance at one point during the song, but I don’t know if you could call it dancing or convulsing. Either

way, no-one was entertained!

I eventually got better at entertaining the more I wore the suit though. All I had to do was violently fist pump and shuffle and the room would be full of laughter. I must have really looked an idiot. I also started to realise that my co-workers didn’t really care how ridiculous I looked as they looked just as stupid as I did when it was their turn. This made me feel a lot better.

And finally realising that my identity was hidden by the huge chipmunk head also put me at ease.

The kids, however, did become increasingly violent over time.

One day, I walked innocently into the party room, oblivious to the danger that awaited me. I began to carry out my normal routine which was dancing while they sang, and then hugging them. The last part went terribly wrong.

I stretched my arms out, waiting to give them all big furry hugs, until I suddenly see three boys charging towards me.

They tried to tackle me to the ground.

They failed, but instead decided to squeeze me and punch the crap out of me.

That kind of stuff happened every now and then.

I began to realise that being paid about $7 an hour wasn’t worth being abused in a chipmunk suit, so I left.

Best decision ever!

My Kitchen Nightmare

By Alanna Caveney

ave you ever had to wake up at 3am to head to work? This was my idea of hell from the start. Sure, morning shifts aren't bad, you can just go home and crash afterwards. But I forgot to mention that I had to head to school for a full eight hours a day after these shifts – The glory of working at a bakery during high school. I can tell you now, when you're beginning to go through the stage in life where you start wanting people to notice you, smelling like bread and bleach all day is not cute. Neither is looking and acting like a zombie three out of the five days you were there a week.

was the manager. The 3.45am starts were actually in her contract as part of her job.

But getting up at that time of morning would be way too hard for someone whose career this is. So she would delegate said job to the newest person on the staff until they got wise and either threatened to report her or just flat out quit. Of course when this would happen, she would be wholly apologetic and do everything outside of bribery to keep people from reporting her. On an average day, she would get to work at 10am, leave at 12ish for two to three hours, return and stay until 6 so she could claim some food to take home with her, and then she would leave all the cleaning and closing procedures to everyone else.

I know some of you may have experience of working in the same environment and you're thinking “what the hell, that's not at all what it's like”. It wasn't the job, it

This was my first proper job, hence why I put up with this treatment for longer than any self-respecting human should, and I was only there a month. Some of

H

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the people I worked with had been there for upwards of a year. After a particularly ridiculous Easter season where I worked eight days straight, watching her come and go as she pleased, only stopping to bark orders, I caved and marched into her office. I took my apron and hat off, told her she could dry-clean them herself, and that I would be reporting her. I'll never forget the sight of her following me through the store into the parking lot, begging and pleading the whole way.

She claimed I would never have to work the morning shifts again, that I could get a 50c raise (ooooh), that I could take a holiday. But I knew if these shitty shifts weren't being done by me, one of the other poor souls would have to do them. I told her to expect a call from head office, and to possibly start looking for another job.

Last I heard, she jumped before she was pushed, and one of her long-suffering disciples took her place.

ARTICLE

ISSUE 25 2012

Kickstart My Heart: The Year of Games

By Lachlan Hornell

Kickstarter is a website which allows crowd funding for creative projects, including independent films, music, and most importantly (obviously) video games. 2012 has been a huge year for video games on Kickstarter, with games like Double Fine Adventure, Wasteland 2, and Planetary Annihilation raising over $2 million each. Backers can donate to each project, usually getting the game or some other reward in return. If the project doesn’t reach its goal, it doesn’t get made.

Here are the 12 most exciting games to be funded by Kickstarter in the last 12 months.

Double Fine Adventure Developed By: Double Fine

Project Eternity Developed By: Obsidian Entertainment

Backers: 87,142 || Amount Asked For: $400,000 || Amount Raised: $3,336,371 || Kickstarter Ended: March 13 2012 Target Release Date: Mid 2013

Backers: 53,394+ || Amount Asked For: $1,100,000 || Amount Raised: $2,384,771+ || Kickstarter Ends: October 16 2012 Target Release Date: April 2014

What it is: A classic point-and-click adventure in the vein of Day of the Tentacle or The Secret of Monkey Island.

Why you should be excited: It is the largest crowd funded game ever and opened up the floodgates for all kinds of new games on Kickstarter. Double Fine’s previous adventure games have been met with very high praise for their humour and sharp writing; a modern look at one is all kinds of exciting. Oh, and they’re also the developers of Psychonauts, one of the best 3D platformers ever. Also, you get to watch the making of the game within 2 Player Production’s ongoing documentary.

What it is: A classic RPG aiming to pay homage to some of the developer’s early games: Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment.

Why you should be excited: The developers have worked on games like Fallout and Alpha Protocol which have awesome depth and great writing. Another of their games, Planescape: Torment, explores some really subversive and dark themes, although it is ultimately let down by aged mechanics. By giving Obsidian a chance to explore these kinds of themes with newer design sensibilities, surely a classic this way comes.

FTL: Faster Than Light Developed By: Subset Games

Dead State Developed By: DoubleBear Productions

Backers: 9,818 || Amount Asked For: $10,000 || Amount Raised: $200,542 || Kickstarter Ended: April 1 2012 || Target Release Date: Released September 14 2012

Backers: 10,096 || Amount Asked For: $150,000 || Amount Raised: $332,635 || Kickstarter Ended: July 5 2012 || Target Release Date: December 2013

What it is: A spaceship simulation game with permadeath and light RPG mechanics with cool pixelated-style graphics.

Why you should be excited: It’s already out! And it’s really good (read this week’s debate review).

What it is: A turn-based RPG set in a world overrun by zombies where you must manage a shelter and develop relationships to survive.

Why you should be excited: If you’re not sick of zombies, then an RPG in a zombie world is a very cool idea. Dead State appears to be something like Project Zomboid, but with a fully fleshed out story which is affected by branching dialogue, resulting in different story beats and multiple endings.

What it is: A classic point-and-click adventure in the vein of Day of the Tentacle or The Secret of Monkey Island.

Why you should be excited: It is the largest crowd funded game ever and opened up the floodgates for all kinds of new games on Kickstarter. Double Fine’s previous adventure games have been met with very high praise for their humour and sharp writing; a modern look at one is all kinds of exciting. Oh, and they’re also the developers of Psychonauts, one of the best 3D platformers ever.

Also, you get to watch the making of the game within 2 Player Production’s ongoing documentary.

Planetary Annihilation Developed By: Uber Entertainment

Backers: 87,142 || Amount Asked For: $400,000 || Amount Raised: $3,336,371 || Kickstarter Ended: March 13 2012 Target Release Date: Mid 2013

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ARTICLE

Castle Story Developed By: Sauropod Studio

Wasteland 2 Developed By: inXile Entertainment

Backers: 27,060 || Amount Asked For: $80,000 || Amount Raised: $702,516 || Kickstarter Ended: August 26 2012 Target Release Date: Ongoing Project

Backers: 61,290 || Amount Asked For: $900,000 || Amount Raised: $2,933,252 || Kickstarter Ended: April 17 2012 || Target Release Date: October 2013

What it is: A mix between Minecraft and Age of Empires. You take control of yellow ‘Bricktrons’ and build castles one block at a time to defend against evil rock ‘Bricktrons’.

Why you should be excited: You can theoretically build any kind of structure you like, similar to Minecraft, but here the physics are realistic. You’ll have to build castles which can stand up to the rock ‘bricktrons’ and their projectiles. It’s like Minecraft but with more purpose.

What it is: The sequel to a game made in 1988, which led to the creation of Fallout. A top-down party-based RPG set in postapocalyptic America with hard decisions and real consequences.

Why you should be excited: The first Wasteland was hailed as one of the best PC games of all time and essentially birthed an entire genre. The developers coming back to the series after 24 years is an interesting prospect, even if the interest is provoked by pure curiosity.

Carmageddon: Reincarnation Developed By: Stainless Games

Shadowrun Returns Developed By: Harebrained Schemes

Backers: 15,736 || Amount Asked For: $400,000 || Amount Raised: $625,143 || Kickstarter Ended: June 6 2012 || Target Release Date: February 2013

Backers: 36,276 || Amount Asked For: $400,000 || Amount Raised: $1,836,447 || Kickstarter Ended: April 29 2012 || Target Release Date: January 2013

What it is: A reboot of the 1997 Carmageddon, an uber violent vehicular combat game. You race through cities and industrial areas whilst running over pedestrians and smashing into other racers.

Why you should be excited: We haven’t had a good vehicular combat game in a long time, let alone one with such violent appreciations. Carmaggedon: Reincarnation is likely to bring back those great open environments for more vehicular manslaughter.

What it is: A turn-based 2D/3D blend of an RPG set in the Shadowrun universe.

Why you should be excited: The Shadowrun lore runs very deep, running the gamut between Tolkien-esque high fantasy of elves and dwarves, and a Cyberpunk technofuture of business and corporations.

They are also promising to develop a system wherein each character class can view and interact with the world in wholly different ways.

Republique Developed By: Camouflaj

Mercenary Kings Developed By: Tribute Games

Backers: 11,611 || Amount Asked For: $500,000 || Amount Raised: $555,662 || Kickstarter Ended: May 11 2012 Target Release Date: June 2013 for iOS, September 2013 for PC/Mac

Backers: 3,880 || Amount Asked For: $75,000 || Amount Raised: $116,064 || Kickstarter Ended: September 13 2012 Target Release Date: May 2013

What it is: A stealth-survival game with great graphics designed foremost for touch devices.

Why you should be excited: First off it has David Hayter, the voice of Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid. Secondly, the developers want to make a game which truly fits the format of iPhone and iPad. That means it won’t feel like a terrible port with onscreen controls and ads scrolling past every few seconds.

What it is: Essentially Metal Slug but with customisable weapons; a 2D action shooter with soldiers and guns and fighting and stuff.

Why you should be excited: It has really awesome animations and art done by the guy who did Scott Pilgrim Vs The World: The Game.

It also has a focus on local co-op play for those who have significant others that like to play games too.

What it is: The sequel to a solid tower defence game from 2008.

You have to stop aliens getting to the end of a linear path using tower-based weapons.

Why you should be excited: The first game was a very tightly built, well balanced game in the tower defence genre. The sequel promises to build on that, introducing multiplayer, a level editor, and an entire new engine.

Defense Grid 2 Developed By: Hidden Path Entertainment Backers: 6,291 || Amount Asked For: $250,000 || Amount Raised: $271,726 || Kickstarter Ended: August 14 2012 || Target Release Date: December 2012 for the expansion, TBC for the sequel

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COLUMN

ISSUE 25 2012

Insurmountable Dilemma

Poems

By Lusinda Gomes-Sebastiao You fill me up and empty me out.

Passed around from strangers' lips to strangers' hands.

You tinge me with different flavours and then dunk me into a bath of suds.

By Laurene Jooste

I am bristled by unshaven faces and stained by a woman's colour.

Repeatedly.

Occasion after occasion.

Everyday.

I

am faced with a dilemma and I’m not quite sure what to do about it. I have finally reached the end – my last year at uni. The final month before exams then I’m finished.

I remember as a first year, looking at the graduates walking up Queen Street towards Aotea Centre, thinking that my turn was so far away. Being one of those people seemed too big a goal to reach. Yet here I am, nearing the end of the road and it has sort of snuck up on me without me realising.

The whispers of sweet nothings heard overhead; the lies of your lover.

Your laughs and tired jokes. The workings of business; the distant background din when you've lost your thoughts.

It’s funny. In the beginning everything seems like such a long trawl uphill. But as you take each day at a time, you realise that the days are long, but the years are short. And before you know it, it will be your turn to walk across that stage in your flashy cape and hat.

And once I have been used I am sent away to be washed of your tellings and your doings.

But say I was left, unwashed.

Everything about you shall remain untold For I have not your lips to share your secrets; They are locked in the holds of my handle.

All this makes you stop and wonder what’s next? Usually people go to school, then to uni, and after graduation go on an epic OE. However, being my untraditional self, I did my OE before uni. I didn’t know what I wanted to study, or where.

And frankly, after 13 years of school, I wanted to ditch the textbooks and see the world. I had a great time and felt less restless when I finally got about to studying again.

Until one day, far or soon I am clumsily set down or shattered on a cold tile floor.

And there all your secrets shall lay bare with no voice.

But now where does that leave me? Straight into the work force? After my amazing gap time after school (it ended up being three years instead of one), I am once again reluctant to just jump straight into such a life-long commitment. Countryhopping and working my way from place to place has far more appeal. The pseudo-glamorous life of the gypsy beckons me like a vile seductress. I know I can’t keep going like this for long, but I’m tempted to push it as far as I can.

Or perhaps I'll be forgotten amongst the depths of your shelves, and everything I ever heard shall be held forever.

But lost too. *** When I am sixteen I will lose myself and realise I do not care what you think of me.

“Go for it! Sounds like the best plan ever, Laurene.” I hear you say. I agree. However, the one catch with so much travel – you’re always broke. You spend all your money moving, eating and sightseeing that you’re pretty much living your student life in foreign countries (except as opposed to your student life, you don’t know where the cheap coffees are and what brand of noodles taste the best).

When I am seventeen I shall know that a kiss does not mean that you love somebody.

When I am eighteen I will fall in love with Paris, good wine and pick cosmos in Africa.

When I am nineteen I will stop smoking, have an affair with words and wash the dirt off my knees.

And here is the second part of my problem: to live in the lap of luxury but settle down to the mundane, sameness of adult responsibility, or continue on with the adventurous life of travel in the same richness as a local hobo? Damn this modern materialist nature which we all now have, otherwise the decision would be easy (first world problems right?).

When I am twenty I want to be out of here and over there with my own life and someone else’s antiques.

When I am twenty-one I might bake a cake on my birthday, pull faces at myself in the mirror and laugh.

I know I shouldn’t bitch, and to be honest, I’m not really. I’d be psyched with either prospect as I know there are many out there who have a tougher time at life. But it’s that whole ‘too many choices make things harder’ thing. It’s not even the issue of remaining where your family or friends are, because if you’re anything like me, I have family in half a dozen countries, and friends in even more.

When I am twenty-two I’ll empty all my boxes of letters and notes, read my old diaries and realise I’m too old for cereal at midnight.

When I am twenty-three I may stop counting, someone may give me a key and I’ll move myself closer to the stars.

Ah well, I guess for now I’ll just sit back, freak out about last minute assignments and pick whatever future I feel like at the time. Either way it’s guaranteed to be awesome.

When I am twenty-four maybe I’ll be in Australia, singing a song I never remember the words to and have thrown away that key.

When I am twenty-five perhaps I’ll leave it all to fate, learn to cook and maybe let you find me.

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COLUMN

Injecting a little happiness

The achievement locker

By India Hendrikse

T

wo thousand and twelve is almost over, and students all over the place are starting to stress; not because the supposed end of the world is coming, but because they have to face hard work and decision time. No matter what stage of your degree you are at, you will find something to worry about. If you are graduating, you worry that you finally have to face the ‘real world’, and if you are focusing on exams, you wonder whether these few marks will determine your future opportunities. But why do we never just focus on the now? Just think – we only have one life, so we may as well enjoy every minute of it. Enjoy studying, enjoy eating, and enjoy just simply being you.

By Karl Waters

I

t’s easier now, more than ever, to outsource effort.

Google, among others, has made it ridiculously easy to get someone to answer that math problem or reword that paragraph for you, let alone text someone for that quick hint. Sure, it looks like it’s going to be a more and more collaborative world, with many open source movements taking shape and vastly numerous groups already established for everything one could need help with. However, from what can be observed out there, being the man or woman that can make do with whatever they have at the time to get things done is what often seems to divide the accomplished from the rest – endless stories of accomplishment start with humble beginnings. Here’s an extract from Ethics for young people (1891), by Charles Carroll Everett – which I believe has some valuable wisdom to ponder on;

So how do you inject a little happiness into every day? Even if it is a ‘study day’ you aim to have, there is always a way to put a smile on your face, clear your head, and look at life with a more positive outlook. If you want to learn how to smile and laugh a little more, then keep on reading, your study can wait until later.

Make sure you do a good deed every day. If you lift the spirits of others, then your spirits will be lifted in return. All around AUT, buskers sit on the streets sharing their talents with the world. Be generous and donate a dollar or two; it will make their day, and it will certainly make you feel like you have put a little happiness back into the world.

“One way in which a person may become self-reliant, is never to seek or accept help till he has fairly tried what can be done without it.

Your own happiness and enjoyment is important during exam time too. Sure, it is essential to study to receive marks that will make you proud, but do it in a way that focuses less on a cluttered room and apple cores, and more on a pretty park and sunshine.

The fresh air will clear your head, and it gives you the opportunity to ditch your fad diet for a day, and buy yourself a kit-kat, because you deserve it.

Some scholars, if they come to a problem that seems hard, run at once to the teacher, or an older friend, or perhaps even to another scholar, who is brighter or more self-reliant than themselves, in order to be told how to do it. Always try it yourself. Even if it is nothing more than a conundrum, do not wish somebody to tell you the answer till you have fairly tried to conquer it.

Do not ever compare yourself to others. There is a difference between having a role model, and trying to mimic the life of another human being. You were born you for a reason, so embrace it. If you enjoy painting, then give yourself half an hour a day to paint. Even if you can’t think of a single talent that you may possess (believe me, we aren’t all the ‘do-everything’ type), then just go for a walk and daydream. Thinking is something we can all do, and our thoughts are the most personal part of ourselves. Personality can be seen, but if thoughts are not spoken, then they are entirely for you, and only you can prosper in their meaning.

It is a pleasant feeling that comes from having done a difficult thing oneself, a feeling that those never have who are helped out of every hard place.

Did you ever think why it is that so many of the great men of our country are found among those who began life in hardship and poverty? Many of them grew up in what was, when they were young, the western frontier, where they had to work hard; where they had no schools, and few comforts and conveniences. They have come from these circumstances that seemed so discouraging, and have become presidents, judges, generals, or millionaires.

If you never have much time for yourself due to work, chores and the like, then it is a wise idea to sacrifice just 30 minutes of your usual sleeping time to have a little time for yourself. Have a hot cup of tea or a milo, and reminisce on days spent on school camps and sitting in front of a warm fire. The hot drink will help you sleep, and will also clear your mind from a hard day. While enough sleep is essential, it is also important to clear your mind and do nothing for a few minutes. Learning how to do nothing is a skill, and should be learned, cherished, and used whenever life gets too hard. Turn on some relaxing music, preferably not the slow and mournful type, and relish in relaxation without feeling the slightest twang of guilt.

One reason why so many that had such an unpromising beginning have won such success is that because they had so few helps, they were forced to help themselves.

They thus became self-reliant. When they went out into the world they went straight ahead. Without waiting for anyone to make a place for them, they made a place for themselves. Without waiting for anyone to do for them, they did themselves. Without waiting for people to advise them they trusted themselves....”

In all, it is important to remember that you are here to enjoy life as best you possibly can. Although we are often always working towards a goal or a difficult challenge, it is still important to remember that the key to living a good life is through happiness.

We are here to live and be individuals, so the meagre act of following the crowd is not okay. Smile, laugh, and do a little for yourself; it will all pay off in the end.

It’s age old wisdom, and to some it may sound trivial – but it’s certainly something that proves to set itself as a challenge worth striving for.

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COLUMN

ISSUE 25 2012

By Matthew Cattin

ABBA – When ABBA is played, flood the dance floor like a tidal wave of ovaries.

Burning bras – Nothing says women don’t need no man like burning a symbol of femininity.

Cosmopolitan – Because good advice is never free.

Desperate Housewives – Because all women just love a good inspirational documentary.

Emotions – Use them as a weapon. Extended deadlines are only a few crocodile tears away.

Fifty Shades of Grey – Just make sure to clean up once you’re finished.

Gossip sesh – If there aren’t any scandals, make one up.

Hair – Get rid of it. Nobody likes stubble rash.

Instagram –Selfies in a club bathroom have never looked better.

JK – If you say this after an insult, all the hurt goes away. JK. Kitchen – Where the magic happens.

Lies – White lies never hurt anybody. Big boned is a real syndrome, trust me.

Make up – Never ruin a good story with the truth.

Narcissism – If you’re taking a selfy, go for a high angle shot. It shows off your cleavage and hides your chins.

Oompa Loompa – Always use fake tan. Because fluorescent orange is the new olive.

Period pains – If a male asks a favour, consider this your get out of jail free card.

Quiz – If a magazine quiz says so, it is so. Just because you ended up Slytherin…

Royal wedding – The happiest day of any girl’s life.

Shania Twain –Man, I Feel Like a Woman. The anthem of femininity. Sing it with pride! Men everywhere will watch with envious eyes for they will never understand the mystique of femininity!

Topless Tuesday – If it’s on tumblr, it’s not porn, it’s art.

Underwear – If it’s not matching, GTFO. Vegetarianism – Eating meat is so 4500BC… Working out – Eat whatever you like, so long as you promise yourself a gym session.

X chromosome – That’s our chromosome bitch.

Yoga – The only time wearing yoga pants is appropriate.

Zodiac signs – Because it makes perfect sense that personalities are determined by your month of birth.

Ass-kicking - If your manliness is in question, open up a can of whip-ass.

Bravery - Always splash girls when swimming. It proves you are fearless.

Consumerism - Do not buy light beer. The light stands for light weight.

Doing chores - If the dishwasher is broken, dump her.

Effortless - Heavy objects – lift them. Back problems are caused by inaction.

Fitting in - Never watch the soccer. Unless the ball is oval, you’re doing it wrong.

Grooming - Toenails are for biting. Nail clippers are for pussies.

Hypothermia - Never accept a jumper when offered.

Goosebumps are actually a man-rash.

Infections - Never cover a bleeding wound. Bears don’t do it so why should you.

Jukebox - If The Fray is played, leave the vicinity. Crying in public is weakness.

K is for Killer - Give your genitals a strong name like Spartacus or Kilimanjaro. A name people will respect, fear and remember.

Mean ink bro - Get a tribal tattoo. Nothing screams “man” like ethnic roots, no matter how distant.

Negligent - Never refuse a beer. Liver failure was made up by lightweights.

Occasions - Tie your own ties. Period. A tie is your noose of masculinity.

Pubes - There is no such thing as manscaping. Only scaping.

Questions - Never ask who’s playing in the rugby. It will only expose weakness.

Ride pimping - If your car’s not broken, fix it.

Sensible - Always swim outside the flags. That’s where sharks dwell.

Tour guide - If you get lost while driving, say it’s the scenic route. Girls love romance.

Urinating - Leave the toilet seat up. The word compromise was invented by women.

Vagina - If you can’t reverse a trailer, this is what you have.

Weather - Never run for shelter when it’s raining. That way your tears won’t look so obvious.

X is a letter in sex - Never cuddle after sex. Smoking is far more appropriate.

You never know… - Always carry a pocket knife on your key ring. Chicks love a man who’s prepared.

Zero tolerance - Herbal tea must never be consumed, ever.

QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. False | 2. The Sun | 3. England | 4. Esquire Magazine | 5. Islamabad | 6. Bachelor of Commerce | 7. North | 8. 2061 | 9. Hawke’s Bay | 10. November 6 WORD JUMBLE: peacock, coke, pack, cope, peak, cock, poke, pock, cake, peck, cape, capo, pace, pea, ace, ape, cap, cop, kea, oak

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Caffeinated Banter

Coffee is a reoccurring object in Hollywood blockbusters. It is a scriptwriter’s secret weapon. The beverage is used to spark conversations, relationships and storylines, throughout a number of genres.

The following are five films where coffee has made a decent cameo appearance: Jack Nicholson (who is dying) tries to persuade Morgan Freeman to drink the most expensive coffee in the world. Later, Freeman finds out the unpleasant origins of this rare coffee bean. It would seem that the Indonesian coffee is processed with the excrement of a cat (my research confirms this).

Honestly, who on earth would come up with such a thing? How on earth does excrement positively help with flavouring? Are coffee beans washed before they are used? Prepare to watch the rest of the film with these thoughts at the back of your mind.

Coffee-making gets a fair share of screen time in this film, which seems slightly random for a crime fighting superhero movie. Kato, the ultimate sidekick, takes coffee machines to a new level. A decent ten seconds is dedicated to the Kato’s coffee making skills. He unveils a mammoth of a machine, makes a stunner of an espresso and creatively decorates it with a fancy leaf. I really think coffee is underutilised in superhero films. Crime-fighting would definitely be easier with a side-kick skilled in the coffee craft.

Amelie is a cute film and the fact that it features coffee makes it even cuter. Amelie is a waitress in a small French café. In one scene she purposely spills coffee on an unsuspecting customer in a successful matchmaking attempt. The victim of this spill retreats to the bathroom to clean up, meets someone there and spends a little longer in the bathroom than expected.

Elesha Edmonds If you don’t have anything to do this exam break, or have run out of procrastination activities, then I would suggest “coffee-watching”. The aim of the game is to watch a film and when coffee is seen/referenced/ implied, scream and take another sip of your… coffee.

This game works best in packed movie theatres, cemeteries or on first dates.

The Devil wears Prada and drinks Starbucks. Anna Hathaway plays an innocent coffee retriever who must meet the caffeinated demands of her boss, Meryl Streep. The film gets a little frustrating with Streep’s reoccurring demand, “Is it impossible to get coffee around here”. There were definitely instances when Hathaway should have just brought herself a coffee and found herself a normal job.

You will be surprised at how many times our beloved beverage has a cameo in today’s blockbusters. In Harry Potter the Dursley’s were known to drink coffee and it was served for breakfast at Hogwarts.

There is a café scene in Batman: Dark Night Rises.

It was used in Sling Blade when Karl (Billy Bob Thornton) says, “coffee makes me nervous when I drink it. Mmm”. In The Notebook, Noah sees Allie having a coffee with her new fiancée. In the Human Centipede… eww gross… can’t believe I even brought that up.

Tom Hanks shows his deep side by making an intense speech about the psychology that surrounds Starbucks. He makes a profound statement about coffee’s effects on the human race saying, “the whole purpose of places like Starbucks is for people with no decision-making ability whatsoever to make six decisions just to buy one cup of coffee. Short, tall, light, dark, caf, decaf, low-fat, non-fat etc. So people who don’t know what the hell they’re doing or who on earth they can, for only $2.95, get not just a cup of coffee, but an absolutely defining sense of self: Tall. Decaf. Cappuccino”. Profound? Or a guy with too much spare time to think about these things?

Coffee is not always the hero. In this film it was used as the weapon. Lee Marvin throws coffee into his girlfriend’s face. The audience never sees the attack occur, however we definitely hear it. A freakish spine-tingling scream gives it away and leaves the poor girl terribly disfigured. Moral of the film: Coffee can be used as a weapon. I’ll keep that in mind.

So next time you drink a coffee make sure you upgrade to double shot, forget the trim milk, mix in two sugars and watch a movie.

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Fashion

ISSUE 25 2012

My year in fashion Morgahna Godwin I was asked to do a roundup of fashion from this year [deep breath]. Rounding up the fashion for the year is almost impossible; it would take a whole magazine. Instead, I'll do a recap of each of the fashion events I've covered.

Here we go:

All images by Morgahna Godwin

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Fashion

New York Fashion Week (February) My first real introduction into what fashion week really is. New Zealand – you’ve got nothing on New York. Soz. I had a week full of running from venue to venue trying to sneak into shows. I only really saw one show which was, well, very 'Victoria’s Secret' minus Miranda Kerr and the performance from Jay Z. I snuck into the DKNY show which got me kicked out. Long story short, they found out, tweeted me, and I didn't get black listed. Win.

Oscars 2012

I somehow found myself at the Oscars. Don't ask me how. Read my blog (thisismorgs.com) if you want the full story. I sat there and sketched the gowns as they came down the carpet. Gwyneth Paltrow was the show stopper of the evening. Forget what you read in Woman's Day - trust me, I saw the dress with my own eyes.

It. Was. Amazing. And that leg of Angelina Jolie's, yeah that was amazing too.

Capsule NYC (Winter)

I was told to check out the Capsule NYC Womenswear showcase back in February. I got to the door and realised I wasn't 'on the list', but for some reason they ushered me through. I just went with it. As I got inside I saw a familiar label sitting in the middle of the room. On closer inspection I realised it was Stolen Girlfriends. Like a magnet, I went straight to their racks. I got to preview the current collection before it was even 'current'. I was totally frothing at that point. I moved on to the stall next door and I found the kids from Lonely

Hearts. It was a big ol' Kiwi get together. I also discovered and became obsessed with the American brand, JF Sons - so much so that I told the designer multiple times how great she was.

This 'obsessive' connection would later prove useful when New York Fashion Week came around in September.

New Zealand Fashion Week 2012

I unintentionally planned a trip home that coincided with the start of New Zealand Fashion Week. I was really surprised to get off the plane in New Zealand, open my email accounts, and find invitations to fashion shows. In all honesty, I didn't plan to be a part of New Zealand Fashion Week, I didn't even think about ever going but somehow the PR firms knew who I was. I was totally chuffed. Unfortunately, I was only able to see a few shows - Ruby and Liam being my favourite.

New York Fashion Week 2012 (September)/ Fashion's Night Out/ Style Awards This time around my fashion week experience was a little more 'real'. Thanks to the job I had gained, and the contacts I had made, I was actually officially working at New York Fashion Week. I was contracted to shoot street style, I was reporting for a British publication and I had back stage duties that included talking to Cara Delevingne. Holla.

Pretty sweet. This time I wasn't sneaking in to learn things, I was allowed to be there. JF Sons, the brand I obsessed over at Capsule back in February, sent

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me a wonderful email with a VIP viewing of their collection. I must have left an impression. Check them out!

Capsule NYC (summer)

This time around at capsule I was 'legitimate media', meaning I was 'on the list'. Thank goodness, because all this sneaking in stuff was giving me anxiety issues.

Once I got to capsule it was clear that it had grown significantly since the last viewing. Once again, I caught up with my fellow Kiwis and just went browsing.

Everyone seemed to want a business card so I handed them out like free popcorn. The general trend was still top buttons, sheer fabric, blog prints and chinos - so not much of a change. I did, in a strange turn of events, jokingly tell style.com that I was wearing a brand called 'SWAZI' from a boutique in New Zealand called RD1. They thought I was serious and quote, "We'll look it up".

And that's it. That is what my year in fashion looked like. It was built on a whole lot of luck, good timing, and willingness to learn. I wouldn't call myself the typical fashion type, but I like clothes and I like faces so it works for me. If you want to do it - just go. Don't wait for someone else to help you, or send you the invite, just turn up and act like you're meant to be there. It may not work every time, but you've got nothing to lose.

Morgs thisismorgs.com

ISSUE 25 2012

LETTERS

LETTERS Dear Debate, Reading the 'Technology' article made me realise not everyone was fortunate to own computers back in the day, but today everyone has one, simply meaning time changes for consumer tastes. I remember my mother saying that I played a noise game at age 2 for my audiology appointment - (we were in Paris, France and just found out I was deaf). Can't believe some people in the article were older than 11 when they got their first computers. I went to a school in Melbourne, which computers were used for primary school students twice a week and owning laptops at school were compulsory for every child in Year 5. Must be why I am shocked that people don't know much about using advanced technology, and can't do touch typing at 320 characters per minute. Am literally proud that I have started using technology at a young age, because this means I will be able use any type of technology in the future whereas people who did not grow up young like that have no chance of starting out a career using computers.

Dear debate,

IN CINEMAS OCTOBER 25

Job

Sub Customer

Date

ProofL/S

2416401 Warner Bros. 09.18.122 175 340id1a

DmaxFile Name

Sirani

argomovie.co.nz

Check the Classification

It's always easy for me to write and complain about things. From how my chicken schnitzel was more like chicken sh*tzel to how my most recent buy of Shapes were beyond over baked. I've never actually bothered to sit down and write about how good something is, but for some bizarre reason, this particular letter of mine is all positive! Good job, debate, for providing me with awesome weekly reads every semester! I really enjoy the direction this year, particularly the weekly theme and the relevance to current events. It's good to see, as well, that the content is broad and doesn't cater to just one faculty. It's obvious that the articles are written by students and for students. I picked up a similar weekly mag from our neighbouring uni and was initially impressed by how many more pages it had compared to debate, but that impression was short-lived. The articles were crazy long (some spanned 4 pages) and they were written by pretentious drones just wanting to ramble. The stuff in their 'magazine' is so male orientated and doesn't cater to us ladies (that's me complaining about things again, I guess old habits die hard).

So kudos and keep up the good work!

‘Argo’

is coming to cinemas

October 25

and Roadshow Films and Debate are giving you the chance to WIN a 1 of 15 double inseason passes to the film.

Starring and Directed by Ben Affleck Synopsis

Complainer.no.more

Based on true events, ‘Argo’chronicles the life-or-death covert operation to rescue six Americans, which unfolded behind the scenes of the Iran hostage crisis—the truth of which was unknown by the public for decades.

On November 4, 1979, as the Iranian revolution reaches its boiling point, militants storm the U.S. embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage.

But, in the midst of the chaos, six Americans manage to slip away and find refuge in the home of the Canadian ambassador. Knowing it is only a matter of time before the six are found out and likely killed, a CIA “exfiltration” specialist named Tony Mendez comes up with a risky plan to get them safely out of the country. A plan so incredible, it could only happen in the movies.

Dear debate, Once again I have thoroughly enjoyed the caffeinated banter ... I am now determined to find The Beverage Bank and try a $3 small flat white that seems like a miracle price these days!!

To enter the draw email your Name, Student ID# with ‘Argo’ in the subject line to: debate@aut.ac.nz

Pity it's not on the Shore :( Thanks, Jess

w w w . a r g o m o v i e . c o . n z 30

Rated: M – CONTAINS VIOLENCE AND OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE

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As Chelsea C's it

I make friends with women pretty easily and we have become close friends. In a few of these relationships I felt that there could be something more than just friendship. However, when I told them how I felt, they have all said I’m a really sweet guy and any woman would be lucky to have me as a boyfriend but they all say I’m just a friend. In the end I just lose that close friendship we had. I like the idea of being friends first and I’ve seen it work for other friends.

Anyway, what I want to know is, should I be trying to become more than friends or should I just be happy with friendship? If not, how do I avoid the “friend zone”?

Dear wanting to be more than friends Yes, unfortunately the friend zone is something a lot of guys find themselves in, so don’t feel alone.

And sadly, it’s mostly the good guys that get stuck in the friend zone.

Anyway, bear with me and I’ll give you some tips to stay out of that situation.

Firstly, it’s great that you make connections easily; it suggests girls feel comfortable with you. If you are interested in this girl after the initial friendship, start working in compliments about her. If she shies away and disagrees, it leaves a perfect opportunity for you to say “well I think you’re beautiful”, or whatever compliment you can muster. By doing that, it easily shows your interest and clarifies thoughts she may have on whether you like her.

Note: this may not be her immediate realisation - it may take a few of these instances so keep them regular.

In that time, take note on whether she is giving you compliments in return. If she is truly trying not to lead you on, the compliments will be few and far between and usually only in instances where you are down on something or when it’s more than just her opinion. When you like a girl and you’re not sure on the signals she’s giving back, you need to ask yourself, “would I really be sad if I never talked to her again?” If the answer is no, tell her how you feel. If it is yes, you are going to have to play the friend zone until you get clear cut signals or make the call to go for more.

However, you need to be aware that guy-girl friendships will always take a backseat to relationships.

So if you are avoiding how you feel to keep the friendship, know that you will always be a back step to a boyfriend that comes along – so if you like her, it’s usually best to express that. At the end of the day, if you are friends, expressing your interest won’t end the friendship - it will just cause a little awkwardness that can be overcome in time.

The best way to avoid the friend zone is to express, at least in part, how you feel from the beginning – but be careful not to be too full on. In the beginning, subtle expressions of interest are best and then you’ll have to work your way up before you go for the kill. I hope that answers a few things for you, give it a go – I would love to know how it pans out!

Good luck!

E 10 Things Sitcoms Have Taught Me D

By Robert Vennell 1. Sarcasm is the highest form of wit.

2. The passion will leave my marriage – I will spend the majority of my time bickering back and forth with my spouse about who is the least fulfilling in the bedroom.

3. I’m not a character of any meaningful

significance until I have a catchphrase.

4. Nothing opens a pack of canned laughter

faster than a sexual innuendo. (Perhaps that should read “In your end-o”)

5. I can get into any number of absurd situations or crazy hijinks and by next week I will still resort back to the status quo.

6. When I enter a room, I should pause and wait for the applause to die down.

7. Successful television requires only that the plot follow the lives of a mismatched bunch of 30-somethings living in an apartment together.

8. If anyone ever holds a position with too

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many superlatives - E.g. "No way, nuh-uh, Not on your life…Absolutely not!” - The opposite will come true…usually immediately after this has been spoken.

9. If I ever become lazy, fat and obnoxious, I will still have a slim and attractive wife.

10. Just because something is popular, doesn’t mean it’s any good.

REVIEWS

Dredd 3D

Battle Born

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis and Emily Blunt Director: Pete Travis | Run Time: 95 min

The Killers

I absolutely loathe 3D. I resent the obtrusive glasses, the fuzzy details and the steep admission price. The day 3D actually adds to a film, rather than subtracts, perhaps I’ll sing a different tune but for now, I’m mad that Dredd 3D wasn’t simply Dredd. But, apart from being disappointed at 3D once again, Dredd 3D gave me exactly what I expected: futuristic violence, no plot and a headexploding good time.

I still remember so clearly my first time listening to Hot Fuss. High on the buzz of my first iPod, I had the album on shuffle – something I would never do these days with a new album. I still remember my mounting excitement as the bubbling synth gave way to a crash of drums in the opening bars of Believe Me Natalie – the first Killers song I heard. The album stayed on repeat for weeks, months even. It was, and still is a classic. Follow up Sam’s Town was equally satisfying, fleshing out the band’s catalogue of tunes with electric anthems and synth ballads. Since then however, the band has kept me entertained, but never enthralled. I was bracing for the worst with Battle Born, afraid that a band I hold so dear would let me down.

In the future wastelands of America, Mega-City One is a sprawling, over-populated mess of crime, narcotics and corruption.

The only order in the chaos comes in the form of Judges; future coppers who act as judge, jury and executioner. Judge Dredd, played by our very own Karl Urban, is a take-no-shit-bad-ass-sonovabitch who’s constantly frowning cheeks make him look like a grouper.

Equipped with a sweet utility pistol, Robocop-style helmet and body armour, Dredd just reeks of ass-kicking.

There is a new drug hitting up the streets of Mega-City One – goes by the name of Slo-Mo. It makes the brain feel as though life is happening at one per cent speed – portrayed beautifully, I must add, by glorious high speed cameras. Seeing a headexploding bullet burst through a drug addict’s face at one per cent

speed is really something quite special. But I digress. So this drug, Slo-Mo, is causing a bit of injustice in a 200 storey apartment block call Peach Trees. So Dredd has to work his way to the top to get to the bottom of the problem which turns out to be a drug dealer played by Lena Headey, the ultra-bitch Lannister from Game of Thrones. Accompanying Dredd on his quest for justice is rookie Judge Anderson whom Dredd is evaluating. Anderson’s not a very confident cop, but her psychic abilities more than make up for it. Oh, and she’s played by Olivia Thirlby who is impossibly beautiful.

So what we are left with is an hour and a half of grungy violence, dark humour and slow motion splatter.

However, while other modern action films (Avengers, The Expendables etc) rely on utterly ridiculous stunts and cheesy-ascheese one liners to entertain, Dredd 3D is considerably more realistic, dark and gritty. It’s not going to win any Oscars and it’s not going to inspire a thesis but it is what it is. And if you buy a ticket to Dredd 3D expecting twists aplenty, avantgarde cinematography and Oscar performances, then you need to swallow a reality pill and stop playing Serious Simon for a while.

- Matthew Cattin

Album opener Flesh and Bone starts off a bit synthier than I like but it soon finds its feet, morphing into a chorus that reminds me an awful lot of Animal Collective. Unfortunately, Dave Kuening and Mark Stoermer (on guitar and bass respectively) are dwarfed by the synth, meaning Brandon Flowers takes control with it and overpowers the song’s other elements. It’s moments like this I miss the days of Hot Fuss when each instrument stood its ground in the recording. Relatively speaking, the album’s leading single Runaways isn’t a strong Killers song. It didn’t grab me at all my first few listens but once I listened to the rest of the album I definitely realised its value. And that wasn’t complimentary…

In saying that, Battle Born does have some good songs on it – it just sounds more like a Brandon Flowers record than a Killers record. Of course, he is the lead singer/ songwriter but I would appreciate hearing the remainder of the band stamping their own signatures on the tracks.

Heart of a Girl echoes Lou Reed’s Walk on the Wild Side and is maybe my favourite song on the record. It’s very Sam’s Town and provides some of the album’s most intimate moments with heart throb Brandon Flowers – swoon. From Here On Out follows, bringing with it a solid dose of country, a genre I reckon the Killers pull off rather well, slide guitar and all.

Where Hot Fuss opened incredibly strong and lost a bit of flare towards the end, Battle Born does the opposite.

The last four or five tracks save the album from being a truly average effort. My soft spot for The Killers hardens like cement with each release but it’s still soft enough to cushion Battle Born from my reviewer’s wrath. Lucky escape Killers. Lucky escape.

- Matthew Cattin

REVIEWS

coexist

FTL: Faster Than Light

The XX

Developed By: Subset Games PC, OSX, Linux

Intimate, tranquil and delicate - three words that sum up The xx perfectly for me. Their 2009 debut was an instant hit, topping best of lists for the year in numerous magazines.

But it wasn’t just a critic’s wet dream; its quiet intricacies spoke mountains to music listeners everywhere. Every now and again a band will come along with a sound that is completely their own – almost as though they are carving their own genre out of marble, think U2, Mumford & Sons or maybe The Killers. The xx did this, and it is perhaps for this reason that their follow up Coexist doesn’t push any boundaries or experiment with any fresh sounds. But with only one album (and a great one at that) under their belts, who can blame a young band for sticking to their guns and working with the same paintbrush that so delicately coloured their debut.

Album opener Angels is a stripped ballad of devotion sung alone by Romy Madley Croft.

Her soft vocals are beautiful and intimate over the minimal backing of reverb guitar and slight drums. “If someone believed me they would be as in love with you as I am,” she shares. For such a quiet and discreet opener, it’s amazing how much you see – like leaning over a pensieve (Nigel, this is a magical device from Harry Potter. It’s a basin in which people can pour their memories into. People can then submerge their heads into the liquid and they’ll be able to see the memory.) . Chained follows with Oliver Sim’s first vocal addition. The pair match each other perfectly when in unison,

like a pair or parallel lines.

It’s like hearing the same soul expressed by different singers.

It’s something that sets The xx apart from every other band but I’d love to see the parallel lines swirl and intersect in harmony rather than mirror one another.

It’s a solid second set of songs by the UK band who achieved so much with their first. If their debut was a giant leap for the band however, Coexist is just a small step. Tracks from the debut would fit perfectly on this record and vice versa – it really is just a continuation of their previous work. It is, however, a pleasure to listen to. It’s one of those albums you can plug into, close your eyes and escape to that place of inner peace. If you loved the debut, Coexist will neither disappoint nor surprise you but it will definitely satisfy your cravings for the band. If you aren’t already on the train, it’s a good place to jump aboard as well.

- Matthew Cattin (Matt: I promise to read Harry Potter one day. I apologise for not being up with the play).

Faster Than Light is basically the mini version of everyone’s favourite space dramas. Star Trek, Star Wars, and Battlestar Galactica all have their presence here. However this is more management sim than action shooter. That’s not to say there isn’t action though, because there is plenty, but rather it comes in bite-sized pixel-laden chunks. FTL: Faster Than Light sets up a random universe of catastrophe, celebration, and combat.

There are two main aspects of the game; a text-based chooseyour-own-adventure driven across a star map, and then combat. You’re on the run from a rebel fleet so you have to move quickly between each sector, of which there are eight in total.

Each sector has about 20 places where you can land your ship to experience different outcomes.

Some of the locations are shops to buy new upgrades for your ship using the in-game currency, Scrap. Other locations allow you to pick up slave workers, indulge in combat with other ships, or simply experience a short reprieve from the chaos.

The action truly fires up during battles between your ship and the numerous others throughout the galaxy. Each type of ship has a variety of rooms including shields, weapons, and oxygen.

It’s vital to manage your workers and your reactor’s power between these rooms to maximise the life of your ship, as each room and weapon requires a set amount of energy.

It feels great saying (quietly to the computer screen) “Move all powers to shields, Luaan Ti!”, and then watching the little pixel characters run around the static ship. At some points everything

becomes incredibly frantic with fires, boarding enemies, rockets, and hull breaches all coming for you at once. To manage it all you’ll want to pause it and take a step back to evaluate. Luckily the game has no problems allowing you to do so; just press the spacebar at any time to take a quick breather.

Filling in the gaps with your imagination is all part and parcel of FTL. The boardgame-like star map with the quick, but intriguing, lines of text is the perfect playground to envision your own episode of Battlestar Galactica or Star Trek. I never really watched these shows as a youngin’, but FTL is such a joy to play that it comes naturally.

FTL: Faster Than Light has a fair amount of depth. Although there are apparently over 25,000 lines of text and many unusual instances throughout the galaxies, there does seem to be quite a few repeats after about 10 play throughs. However, every 20-30 minute long permadeath run is a blast. Rather than feeling burdened by dying and having to start over, it’s refreshing to start anew and live through another day in the life of a captain. The nine ships, each with alternate layouts, also help to keep things feeling novel.

Only two people made FTL: Faster Than Light, and it was the result of a hugely successful Kickstarter in April of this year. As one of the first high profile games to eventuate from Kickstarter, FTL sets a high bar for the rest of the games to come.

It’s a game of space exploration and wild encounters, just don’t expect to live long or prosper.

- Lachlan Hornell

VOX POP

ISSUE 25 2012

AUT Wrapping up the year Laura Russell 19 - Business

Toni-Anne Patton 19 - Business

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“My management lecturer and the people in the class.”

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“Getting good grades in business information management.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“I just do nothing. Stock up on all of the TV I’ve missed and work on a bit of a tan – not that that’s going to happen.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“Take a good sleep, watch heaps of TV and have pyjama days.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“A cellphone because I dropped mine in the toilet.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year? “iPhone 5.”

Dylan Betler 20 - Business

Gordon Penney 24 - Business

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“I went to Aussie for the mid-semester break.”

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

"I went to Canada a couple of months ago.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“I’ll go to South Africa and work quite a lot.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“Just have a day to myself and do nothing.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“Money.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“A job.”

Richard Muher 19 - Engineering

Caitlin Jackson 18- Business

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“Market days were pretty cool.”

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“I went to the snow at Ruapehu.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“Go to town and hang out with friends.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“Just relax.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“A car, I hope.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“Maybe clothes.”

Nicola Carroll 20 - Business

Aaron Cakau 20 - Design

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“My co-op at Watties. Better than sitting at lectures every day.”

What have been your highlights of the year so far?

“Foam party.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“I have no exams this semester.”

Do you have any post-exam rituals?

“I try and forget about everything I’ve learnt.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year? “iPhone.”

What are you hoping Santa will bring you for Christmas this year?

“I don’t really care.”

34

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from Tuesday the 23rd of October 2012

Just bring in your textbooks and ID and the cash could be yours!!!

The small print:

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