Natalie Curnow - Winner !
So long and thanks for all the marmite!
What a weird and unique experience this has been. I'm kinda sad that it's over, but kinda glad too, because it's been exhausting!
I have had so much fun participating in this competition, and have made connections with so many awesome people. Thank you to all the supporters and competitors who have shared their time, stories and creativity with us, and who have made this competition so enjoyable.
Thank you Marmite for this opportunity. You are not only bringing kiwis home, you have united them across the world.
Good luck everyone, and good luck marmite in trying to choose winners from all these amazing entries.
Ps: If you are having too much trouble, you are welcome to use my faves list (see below).
Some of My Faves
Told you I needed more than 3 votes Marmite!
31 October 10 at 7:39pm
Thanks for putting me on your faves list. It means a lot. A people's choice awards. You were definitely on mine too. Natalie, I have enjoyed your page and seeing a bit of life in Vanuatu. It looks like a lovely place that I would like to visit one day. I hope you get a ticket home. You have put a lot of thought and effort into this competition. Best of luck Lisa xx
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31 October 10 at 9:01pm
Same for me, Lisa. Thanks Natalie. I can tell you actually took the time to really read the whole page by the comments you left. It has been such a good way to get to know other Kiwis trying to reach a common goal. And great advertising for Marmite :) Will be in contact, cheers again! (P.S: Already voted)
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31 October 10 at 11:44pm
Final farewell from me Natalie...thanks heaps and for putting me on your faves page too...hope to see you in NZ....woof woof...
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Marmite gives you wings!
The custom dancers on Malo island were today demonstrating their amazing abilities of flight. "Don't worry if you don't win a ticket," confided one of the dancer's, "we will show you how....all you need is this."
31 October 10 at 12:16pm
#365 - my last one Natalie - thank you for all your support of Emily Lauder, hope you are in NZ for Christmas, xx
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31 October 10 at 12:37pm
Best of luck with the rest of the comp Natalie, I hope you get home for chrissy!
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31 October 10 at 2:28pm
Here is hoping you make it home Nat... my last vote has just been counted. :D
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Here's where I want to be.... #2
Another of Tania's beautiful photographs. I so miss autumn.
30 October 10 at 6:20pm
355... I have never been to NZ or Vanuatu but after this contest, you and your fellow expats have shown the world the best parts of your homeland......good luck to you..my grandson Jeremy has been voting for you and we all wish you the best.....camp kerri haybittle
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31 October 10 at 12:56pm
Cheers everyone. Motueka and Abel Tasman have the most beautiful beaches in the world. I haven't put any photos of them here, but if you do want to look check out Maark Brewer's entry.
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This is where i want to be.... #1
This photo was taken by superb photographer Tania Fowler from Mot. This is the central south road near Motueka. Seeing this image made me incredibly homesick.
29 October 10 at 7:17am
What a gorgeous photo. #323 from Emily Lauders' mum.Good luck for the last couple of days Natalie and thank you so much for your support of Em.
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29 October 10 at 11:19am
#329 - Great photo Natalie ... you're on my plane
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29 October 10 at 6:57pm
This is beautiful Natalie .. your whole page is wonderful. I have enjoyed watching it grow over the weeks and dropping the odd vote by. ... it is wonderful to admire the creativity spread all over the marmite pages and see the support everyone is giving out. Thank-you to you and your supporters for your part in making the comp so much fun for all. Life will be different next week eh! THANKS from Leah's sister. Be back later with a vote from Leah's team X
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Hanging out for marmite?
(Interesting fact about marmite: parrots think its really yum)
28 October 10 at 5:36pm
Thanks everyone so much... oooo not long now! Tony - i was really excited with my 300th vote cheers! Martine - awesome you finally got it to work - cheers for your perserverance. Jeremy - i've had many requests to bring mousey (the bat) to halloween. But he's so close to learning to fly now that I'm too afraid that that would be the occasion he finally got to spread his wings. Be very sad when he goes..
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29 October 10 at 1:21pm
r u taking him to NZ ?( the bat not the parrot) #332
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29 October 10 at 6:48pm
I love too, not sure how customs in nz would feel about it though.
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List # 6: Novel uses for marmite
1. Environmentally-friendly face paint at rugby matches (I really think you should market this one for the world cup next year)
2. Hair gel for Elvis impersonators
2. Non-toxic art material, suitable for kids who like to eat crayons
4. I'd really like to see a marmite sculpture competition (has anyone in this comp made one yet?)
5. Quick-fix, temporary shoe polish.- All important job interview? Just scuffed your shoe? No worries - marmite can save the day when first impressions really count...
6. Making new friends with awesome people - just look at this competition for example
27 October 10 at 5:08pm
Great uses - you get my vote! Good luck - I hope you make it home!
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List # 7: Things I miss about nz....
1) Hot showers.
2) Hairdressers. I cut my own hair here.
3) Frost, ice-covered puddles on the sidewalk, foggy breath on chilly winter mornings....
4) Lamb chops, fresh milk, fresh cream, raspberries, pies (especially the cheap plastic-wrapped ones from petrol stations). We occasionally get floury apples imported from australia here, and i have paid up to $NZ3 for one.
5) Watching movies on the big screen, or even just watching movies that aren't dubbed in french. I don't miss TV.
6) Books are in pretty short supply over here. Would love to read one.
7) Makeup that doesn't run off your face within two minutes due to humidity. Basically no point.
8) Dry stony river beds in summer.
9) Fast internet.
10) Curling up with my puss-cats in front of an open fire in winter.
11) Actually calling puss cats 'cats' not 'puss cats'.
12) Shoes, boots, leather, heels! It's too hot, muddy, and rough to wear anything but jandals over here. The coral shreds leather.
13) Change of seasons, autumn leaves, daffodils in spring.
14) Being able to find an atm that works.
15) Student radio.
16) Squeezy mops.
17) Laundry powder that doesn't tie-die your clothes.
18) Washing machines - fabulous invention.
19) Horse riding with english saddles.
20) Concrete footpaths. I don't miss sealed roads - unless I'm driving.
21) Whitebait fritters - my mum is the only person in the world who can cook them properly.
22) Big mountains, snow and keas.
Vanuatu, however, reminds me in many ways of the nz I grew up in....
1) Riding around on the back of utes or trailers
2) Optional seat belts (optional to wear and to have in your vehicle at all)
3) Your dog is welcome almost anywhere.
4) cycle helmets - optional
5) Lots of freedom and very little crime
6) The outdoors is right there, you don't have to travel anywhere to get to it (and I'm living in the second-biggest town here)
7) Lack of materialism and fashion-awareness
27 October 10 at 4:21pm
Voted 281 !! Little Kiwi friend, you must fly to NZ, You totally deserve it !!
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27 October 10 at 4:28pm
My support crew are shadowing you he he...Good Luck Natalie! :)
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27 October 10 at 5:17pm
Cheers everyone!!! I'm having real problems trying to get onto this site at all the last two days :(
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More cute kiddies
This little one is actually my next-door neighbour Sabine. She wanted to help out with my entry, and her mum has dressed her up in traditional costume for the photo. She, and her sister have the most beautiful singing voices, and are really really good with animals. My dog adores them, and not just because they bring over their food scraps for her to eat. This reminds me of a photo my dad took of me and my sister. We were about the same age and had dressed ourselves in a similar fashion after he had pruned the grapevine.
26 October 10 at 5:46pm
#266 for the cutest marmite poster child ever!
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26 October 10 at 9:48pm
This is so cute!! You have a vote from me :)
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28 October 10 at 3:54am
Cute - will be back tomorrow with a vote for you :)
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Major Manhunt sparked by Marmite Heist
Police in Luganville were out in force today, after a break-in was discovered at the Niscol wharf early this morning. "A container of imported foodstuffs has been broken into, and the only items missing were three cartons of Marmite from New Zealand. The thieves obviously knew what they were looking for." reported Sergeant Thomas. "We are obviously looking for very healthy individuals, with an appreciation of fine food." Police are warning the general public that marmite use can lead to great skin, boundless energy, and increased athletic abilities. "If you see any one displaying these symptoms please notify us immediately."
24 October 10 at 11:35pm
Vote for you too Natalie (Mmm ... I thought I was 234) looks like you've got an exciting life there ... I hope this NZ Marmite wasn't your re-stock.
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25 October 10 at 6:17am
Don't know which is scarier: the thieves or the centipedes. Do the centipedes also steal Marmite? Is that why they thrive?
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25 October 10 at 6:34pm
Luckily the centipedes don't touch my marmite. I think they eat thinks like cockroaches, mice and small children
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List # 5 NZ firsts (nothing to do with Mr Peters)
Not only are we the first country in the world to see the sun rise in the morning, we are a rather enterprising bunch of so and so's....
1. The Hamilton Jet engine was invented in nz
2. The Bailey Bridge (that mobile bridge you see in WW2 movies) was invented by kiwis
3. and so was the Electric Fence
4. and the Britten motorcycle
5. We were the first country to give women the vote
6. Wright brothers eat your heart out.... Richard Pearce in Timaru flew first! (according to us anyway)
7. Edmond Hillary got to the top of the world before anyone else...
8. ...and Ernest Rutherford, (from my neck of the woods), split the atom.
9. We invented the egg beater...
10....then along came pavlova!
11. Jogging was originally a sports training technique developed downunder in good old nz.
12. We developed the sustainable forestry industry - actually planting trees for harvest instead of just ripping out ages-old forest.
There's plenty more and I haven't even mentioned marmite & weetbix snacks yet...
25 October 10 at 6:12am
Not to mention the world's fastest Indian! Thought, that's strange, when I first heard of this NZ movie. Amazing. You should see it. An old geezer from Invercargill, putters around for a lifetime fine tuning this Indian motorcycle, takes it to the Salt Lakes in Utah - much to the amusement of those there with their expensive teams and machines. They relent and give him the opportunity to test the bike. And the rest is history. Could we also mention the first people to farm deer (necessity breeds invention). Oh, and what about bungee jumping and the hang glider? Nutty people these kiwis.
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26 October 10 at 9:36pm
I didn't know we were the first to farm deer. I knew about the catching them with helicopters thing
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Anything missing?
Cellphone - check........Wrist watch - check......Sunhat - check........ "Grandad! - have you forgotten the marmite again?"......."Ha ha," thought Grandad, "this pretending I have alzheimers means more marmite for me!"
I share my house with these babies!
This photo is especially for Marcus Prebble. We don't have scorpions here, but we do have these lovely venomous creatures. I've been bitten by one, and its excruciatingly painful, for days. Spotting a baby one in the house strickens me with fear, because where there is a baby, there must be a big squirming nest.
25 October 10 at 4:53am
What I said earlier about visiting Vanuatu; well forget that. What the HELL is that thing?
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26 October 10 at 9:37pm
I think they come from outer space (I've seen men in black)
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Adventures of Marmite in Vanuatu #5
Dawn Service in Luganville - Marmite remembers.......
24 October 10 at 1:55pm
oooo....some more Canadians, cheers for your comments Pamela. Matthew - gotta go see that (hmmm.....is that really egotistical?) Marcus, definitely not all rosy here, but at least we have Marmite! Thanks everyone for you support. I really appreciate it.
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24 October 10 at 5:31pm
hey girl! love your page :) here's vote 230....hope marmite sends you home!
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25 October 10 at 6:28am
i really hope marmite does send you home too!!!
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Mayumi's Momentous Marmite Meeting
The conversation soon turned to marmite at Mayumi's breakfast meeting with the new yoga instructor at Turltle Bay. The newly-arrived english women whipped out a jar of marmite to add to her brekky. Apparently english people love NZ marmite so much that they try to dress like him! Thanks for the great photo Mayumi! Incidentally, Mayumi from Wrecks to Rainforest, recently went on holiday in nz and now wonders why i ever left! (She has been raving about it for the last couple of weeks driving me completely insane with jealousy........)
25 October 10 at 7:10am
if you don`t leave, you don`t appreciate what you had! oh its tear-jerking stuff. We are lucky we have such a beautiful place to call home!!
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25 October 10 at 6:42pm
voted 243 !! Loved South NZ !! Love to live there one day !!
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26 October 10 at 9:38pm
Hey mayumi. I'm pretty sure that you get honorary citizenship if you vote and eat marmite at the same time. Cheers everyone
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Don't disappoint them Marmite!
The kids at Tutuba have been practising their waves goodbye all week! [shameless attempt to extract a sense of obligation]
23 October 10 at 2:04pm
oooo... Lots of Canadian's. How cool is that!
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24 October 10 at 9:46am
hehehe worked on me ;) Please lets not disappoint the children Marmite...
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Big marmitey kisses to you all!!
Hello everyone, can't say too much today as I'm being prodded with big pointy stick and told to do some work.
Just want to say the support and encouragement I've received has been quite overwhelming. Particularly from the support crews of Leah Swan, Penny Duke, and Kerri Haybittle who sent me so much encouragement when I thought I was just talking to myself. Making Lisa & Imogen O'Connor's '3 votes for the day' list was actually more exciting that making faves. I love this competition, and feel that I have got to know so many awesome kiwis out there!
Special big kisses with extra marmite to the guys in v-land who have persevered to get on this site. I know you have wasted several hours of your life to do it. (But wasn't it worth it? - now you have experienced the joy of marmite!)
Adventures of Marmite in Vanuatu #4
Marmite trys to flag down a passing fishing boat. "Well, if I don't give you a ticket, you could always try this." suggests marmite. Good idea Marmite, helpful as always!! (PS: Laurent actually took this arty photo. He and marmite keep going on 'Boy's Day Out' adventures without me! Seems I"ve lost my boyfriend to marmite, and worse - my marmite to my boyfriend) Give him back Laurent!!!
Making friends with Marmite # 5
Cruiseship day in Santo, and this delightful couple thought marmite would make an excellent souvenir to take back to the grandkids in Vancouver, Canada. (What's the bet the kids get an empty jar to play with!).
The word is spreading....#3
Translation: you like Marmite? We do to!
21 October 10 at 2:32pm
193...from camp Kerri Haybittle who would just love to be 'camping' in NZ in her mommy's house this Xmas, or her bro's house.... Cheers to your effort also.
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21 October 10 at 3:08pm
How cool is that Natalie! Dropping by to say HI!.... :)
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Building better...with Marmite!
Contrary to popular belief life in Vanuatu is not all sipping cocktails on the beach (in fact its a bit of a rarity). I work in construction, and when I'm not staring at my computer, praying that the internet is working, i'm standing for hours in long queues at various government departments. Construction can be pretty hard physical work in any country, but can be gruelling in a tropical climate with things like heavy machinery, and electricity in short supply. It's essential that energy levels can be retained throughout the day, so I like to make sure that the boys get plenty of those B-vitamens.
The word is spreading....#2
Translation: Tried marmite yet? Its great
20 October 10 at 3:25am
a vote for you from one of Leah Swan's supporters ... good luck Natalie!
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20 October 10 at 12:27pm
cool page! you get my last vote of the day! good luck :)
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My Mum & Dad are to blame!
These are the culprits responsible for sending me off to school with marmite and lettuce sandwiches nearly everyday. These guys could do anything and really well (except turn on a computer, eh mum!) My Dad is a total workaholic. When he was not working, he was always doing home handy-man stuff. He built things like a boat , a trailer, picnic table, a little play house for us kids - all in our garage. He found our lawn mower at the dump and fixed it up - it's probably still going now. We had a massive vege garden - full of lettuce to add to those aforementioned school lunches. My mum could sew, knit, and bake better than any professional. She used to make our clothes when we were kids, which was not as embarrassing as it sounds. I remember a friend's mother copying one of mum's designs, and we would walk around like twins. One of my favourite stories when I was growing up was how they met. It was at the movies and mum was on a date with some other bloke. But from there on the details tended to differ depending on whether it was mum or dad telling the story. Hmmmm....I wonder if Dad had taken some marmite crackers along with him.
19 October 10 at 8:17pm
Mum used to make a rather unusual combo of Marmite and walnut sandwiches!! Go Mums and their avant garde sandwiches! You get my vote today, good luck!
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31 October 10 at 7:39pm
omg wow iv never seen this photo! amazing!!
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The word is spreading....#1
ps. only two and 1/2 hours to log in today.
21 October 10 at 6:19am
I will be dropping by here often to vote! Great posts!!!
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Fishing secret revealed!
Fishermen, Donald and David, swear by their secret marmite lure. "Its amazing" says Donald, "We took out some marmite sammies for lunch one day, and the fish just started jumping into to boat to get at them." "We have to be careful not to capsize whenever we go out now" adds David
19 October 10 at 5:36pm
Marmite, is there any rules about animals voting? Because my cat would like to register.
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19 October 10 at 7:55pm
Great pic Natalie, for this big fish story you get my last big vote today, all the best, Alicia Froomes Mum :)
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21 October 10 at 6:19am
Hopefully you can tell these stories to your mates when you get back ae!
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Nobody loves me, Marmite!
The guys at Santo Island Dive & Fishing are pretty keen to see the back of me. (Though it might have helped if they got the url right....hmmmm).
What I'm missing out on in nz #2
Watching my niece and nephew grow up. These kids always cracked me up. My sis is probably favourite aunty now...
18 October 10 at 9:14am
Cute cute cute.....hope you get to hug them Have a vote from me....Leah's big bro
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18 October 10 at 7:29pm
oh no. I hope you get back. I am looking forward to meeting my nephew too. x
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Attention Ladies!!!!!
Christophe: 36, 6ft4, green-eyes, blond hair, owns own business. Christophe is looking for someone special to share his love of marmite and wildlife.To register for the marmite online dating service, just click the "Vote for this Kiwi" button at the top of this page.
20 October 10 at 3:38am
Leah Swan, could we go over there & fight it out?
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20 October 10 at 7:49am
Newsflash: International travel agents are being deluged with requests for flights to Vanuatu with a stopover in Auckland just long to find a jar of Marmite. I'm joining the queue. Right now!
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20 October 10 at 12:46pm
Awesome Kay! You should enter this comp too!
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Bring me Home Marmite, Or Else...
...young Joseph here is going to have to slingshot me back to nz.
17 October 10 at 8:05pm
They all have them here or run around with big bush knives! Cheers Gladys
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18 October 10 at 7:31pm
I see you have quite a few alternatives to getting home now. I am hoping it is the plane for you though. :)
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19 October 10 at 2:57pm
I think this one might actually be more fun that flying. Hey Marmite I dont want a ticket.....Yeah Right!
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My week with marmite
My goals for the week were:
a) world peace, b) abolish animal cruelty (awesome - paws justice!), c) make the marmite 100 club - 6 to go [holding breath in anticipation] d)
My actual achievement for the week was:
I'm now officially the 'crazy marmite lady' of Luganville, annoying friends and strangers alike with my camera and marmite. I can no longer complete a sentence without inserting the word 'marmite' somewhere. "Mmmmm, Marmite, marmite, marmite..." (I have actually said this, and Laurent has caught the affliction too...)
Typical conversation for the week was:
"hey Nat, we are doing [insert some totally awesome activity], do you want to come?"
"Nah , love too, but I have to do some marmite stuff... you know"
PS i have to apologise to those of you who haven't featured in my marmite blog yet......And also apologise to those of you that have. Thanks for being such great sports.
19 October 10 at 1:14pm
Yay!!! Natalie makes the Marmite Faves page!!!! :D
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19 October 10 at 2:56pm
Marmite loves me! You're one of my faves too Marmite!!!!!
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What I'm missing out on in nz #1
My fabulous son performing in 42nd street. (amazing photo by Flip Hurst)
18 October 10 at 10:34pm
Cool photo Nat... I feel so old looking at him :( lol.
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19 October 10 at 2:55pm
How do you think I feel Maree? But I confess, I do enjoy the shock value when I tell people how old he is heehee!
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31 October 10 at 7:42pm
for the record - im not the one in the dress at the front! just behind :)
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Adventures of marmite in Vanuatu #3
"I'm really glad I invented this competition," says Marmite, "This is heaps more fun than hanging around the kitchen. Weetbix can't talk about anything except rugby, rugby, rugby. All that 'breakfast of champions' nonsense has gone to his head." " Hahaha - whose's laughing now Weetbix!"
17 October 10 at 6:49pm
Dear Sanitarium, Marmite is actually quite peeved. He thinks he should have been the breakfast of champions as he is all black. PS: Why have you dressed him in Mooloo colours? Marmite actually supports the Crusaders!
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List # 5: Statements that only kiwis appreciate
List # 5: Statements that only kiwis appreciate
Test your kiwiness
If the following sentences appears to be a random collection of meanless drivel, then
a) you are not a kiwi
b) you have been away from home too long
1. "You are not in Guatemala now Dr Ropata"
2. "Stay cool till after school"
3. "Cook me some eggs"
I'm sure there are more.....
20 October 10 at 7:56am
Marmite has achieved the impossible! Tracked down my long lost brother! Where are you? And how do I manage to contact you?
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20 October 10 at 12:48pm
I know. First time i've heard from him for ages to. Where are you Derek? Still in Darwin?
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Monumental achievement for Marmite
Congratulations Marmite!!!! You made it to my bookmarks bar. Only the absolute essentials make here. Well done marmite!!!!!
List # 4: Great NZ Music
List # 4: Great NZ Music
Great NZ music
NZ music rocks!
1. Shihad
Shihad's 'Home again' MUST be the national anthem for all ex-pat marmite-munching kiwis out there.
"Put your clock back, for the Winter.
She asks when I'll be, home again.
If I could see those eyes,
I know they cut me down to size.
You're not here, when I need you.....
.......So sleep, and wake, and dream up your fate,
and rise and fall, watch you, grow tall.
I'm here, you're there, but you should know I still love you,
when I'm, miles away.
I'll be home again,
I'll be home again,
Comin' home again.
I'm comin' home again.
Does anyone not have this on their i-pod or laptop?
The first of the many times I saw Shihad live, they were skinny kids opening for Faith no More at the Warners Hotel (alt venue) in Chch. They were also the last band I saw playing in Auckland, before I left nz.
2. Split Enz
Classic band. I have yet to meet a kiwi who doesn't like Split Enz. The first concert I'd ever been to was these guys playing in Nelson when I was about 11 or 12.
3. Does any one remember the Front Lawn (with Don mcGlashen)? Loved their album when it came out in the early nineties
4. Headless Chickens!!!!!!!!!!!
Favourite Song: Expecting to Fly
Your happy day is here again, your happy day is here again, your happy day is here again, your happy day is here again, your happy day is here again, your happy day is here again
Certainly will be a happy day if I win a ticket back home!
15 October 10 at 1:59am
My friend Leah Swan really wants us to support everyone .....Sending a vote your way today! #60 best wishes
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15 October 10 at 10:20am
Done again, you definitely deserve to go home Natalie !!
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15 October 10 at 2:03pm
I know you are really just dying to get rid of me Mayumi! Thanks for your vote!
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Making friends with Marmite # 3
"Mr Marmite" Laurent is always a popular visitor with the kids at Fanafo village.
15 October 10 at 2:42pm
It must be all the energy that marmite gives me laurent!!!!!
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17 October 10 at 7:29am
Looks as if they've been into the Marmite. Oops! Hope that's not politically incorrect, bigoted, racist or what have you....
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20 October 10 at 7:40am
Time to feed Laurent more Marmite. He appears to be suffering from a Marmite deficiency.
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List # 3: Great NZ films
List # 3: Great NZ films
These are some of my favourite films ever. NZ films are definitely up there in the world and there are plenty more that deserve to be listed here.
1. Heavenly Creatures
This is one of my all time favourite films ever. Peter Jackson - you rock!
2. Once were Warriors
Need I say anything....
3. Topless women talk about their lives
I've always wanted to get this oddball little gem on dvd, and have never been able to find it.
4. The Piano
I know there is some debate as to whether this is actually a nz film, but come on - Jane Campion, Anna Paquin, Auckland beaches - I think we can safely claim it.
5 Eagle vs Shark
Hahahah - hilarious. Some of my non-kiwi friends don't get it...sad for them
7. An Angel at my Table
Again by Jane Campion
8. Someone else's Country
Great doco by Alister Barry about nz in the late eighties
9. Out of the blue
Makes me cry everytime....
Note: no recent films have been listed here as there is no movie theatre, and no unpirated dvd's, (nor pirated ones that feature movies made prior to 2008), so I'm really out of touch. Heard a bit about a movie called "Boy". Am dying to see this.
16 October 10 at 3:39pm
Quiet Earth, Smash Palace, Scarfies. The list goes on. Damn Kiwis are awesome!!
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16 October 10 at 3:42pm
And Boy is great a new New Zealand classic. They should have had a jar of marmite in it
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16 October 10 at 9:20pm
Love Smash Palace. Desperately want to see Boy. Hey if I don't make it back to nz, can someone send me a dvd?
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Essential Travel Information for Kiwis
If you are travelling to to Vanuatu and need a marmite fix, this is the ONLY shop in Santo which stocks marmite. I nearly fell over with excitement when I discovered this. Obviously the owner is a man of great taste and business acumen, and will become a squillionaire as soon as the word gets out. Hope these ladies didn't grab the last jar!
12 October 10 at 8:04pm
a pleasure to put in a vote to bring you home.
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13 October 10 at 5:45am
Thanks Natalie for supporting my good friend Leah Swan...He's a vote for ya! Good Luck
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SNAP!
The lovely Lisa from Oyster island was not to be outdone. The fellow kiwi and marmite fanatic quickly pulled out a jar of marmite from her personal stash when she spotted mine. When you are stuck overseas, nothing beats catching up with people from home and swapping marmite stories, apart from actually winning a ticket home.
13 October 10 at 5:52pm
You couldn't look happier to be holding up a jar of MARMITE. Go Natalie ... from another Leah supporter .. hahaha! vote #36 for you.
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13 October 10 at 7:55pm
I know! I definitely had to use this photo. Thanks Jim (and Lisa!)
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Yummy yummy yummy, marmite in my tummy
The sunday marmite lunches at Oyster Island Resort are the most popular event on the social calendar in Santo. Bookings are essential!
12 October 10 at 6:10pm
Notice how expensive marmite is in vanuatu - no wonder I don't have enough money to get home.
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Scientists prove marmite deficiency causes zombisim
Brendan, a medical research volunteer from Lope Lope, agreed to refrain from eating marmite for three months. "We have found that the advanced stages of marmite deficiency syndrome include mental stupor, red glowing eyes, blackened patches of skin, and constant falling over into the sand due to loss of motor coordination. Suffers have such a lack of energy they turn into zombies" say researchers. "I felt better within seconds of having that big marmite drink" says Brendan after his ordeal, "though I'm still concerned about some of the side effects such as wearing silly hats. It's not something i'd like to experience again." Doctors expect that Brendan will make a full recovery by continuing with his marmite infusions, "the speed of Brendans recovery with the treatment has been quite remarkable."
Making friends with Marmite # 2
I had never met this people before, but marmite soon broke the ice. The lovely french couple are in vanuatu on holiday. " I wish we had cuisine as tasty, and as healthy as this in France." they exclaimed, " It would be fantastic for baby Mia's development. Lets change our plans and go to New Zealand."
12 October 10 at 6:08am
Sure will ... you must be adopted! #20 ... double your score an hour ago!!
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Making friends with Marmite # 1
Laurent found making friends with the locals in Ambrym easy with marmite. Soon everyone was enjoying the great marmite taste.
12 October 10 at 7:08pm
Cheers Sally, much appreciated. I will definitely be keeping up support for Leah!
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13 October 10 at 7:34pm
EXCELLENT, Laurent, la classe!!! Back home!! Hope you will won those tickets! Bonne chance!!
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14 October 10 at 6:05pm
Gardez-nous un pot pour dans 3 semaines;on en ramènera en Calédonie.
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Adventures of marmite in Vanuatu #2
Rounding up the cattle at Sarami Plantation
13 October 10 at 7:35pm
Celle la aussi elle est super.. souvenirs souvenirs...
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13 October 10 at 8:01pm
Hi Camille, you click a yellow button at the top of the page saying "vote for this kiwi" It is near the number of votes. If you can't see it try logging out and logging in again. Thank you so much for the support
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Cats prefer Marmite......Meow
This is my darling baby , Stryder. She is a kiwi cat born and bred in the Waikato. She'd also like to win a ticket home. This is Stryder's fave activity having a cap-nap with her jar of marmite. Stryder doesn't actually eat marmite, as she is a carnivore, and as everyone knows marmite contains no meat!!
Alternative methods of getting home # 1
I've been practising for an epic journey across the ocean to nz at Port Olry. If I stick to my strict marmite diet I should have enough energy to make it.
14 October 10 at 10:27am
This looks like a lot of fun. But let's hope you don't have to. Best of luck getting on the plane home :)
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List #2 Places I've lived in NZ
List #2 Places I've lived in NZ
1. Rangiora
This is where I was born. I love the canterbury plains, yellow ochre fields for miles and massive dry river beds in summer. I read a science-fiction book , in which people who lived on this planet could never leave for long periods of time without becoming fatally ill. They always have to return. This is how I feel about canterbury. I need to breathe in that dry air - it's part of my genetic make-up. My best friend at the time was Janet and we would go on bike riding adventures around town. Family christmases were always the best at my Uncle Graeme and Aunty Marie's farm here.
2. Tapawera
Tapawera is a forestry town in the middle of the golden downs forest in Nelson. It had one shop which doubled as petrol station, and a pub, but a pretty big area school for all the rural kids who turned up daily on buses. The town closed one day a month so everyone could go shopping in Nelson - this was in the days before sat/sun shopping. I remember Mum would make marmite crackers for me and my friends after school. We had a native forest block and steep sheep paddocks behind the house to play in. My nana bought me bright orange gumboots which she thought was pretty styley, but I wanted black ones like everyone else.
3. Motueka
(Place name in local dialect: Mot)
Mot is the only place in the world where people understand my native language. Everywhere else I have to think about what I say and translate my mot-english into some other form of english. I spent my formative years here, my son was born here, and I'm a mot-girl in my soul. The best beaches in the world are found around Motueka and in the Abel Tasman National park. Absolutely no contest - sorry v-land
4. Paraparaumu
(Place name in local dialect: Pram)
I lived for a short-time on the wild kapiti coast with a wonderful couple, Dale and Delwyn. They put me up when i first moved to the north island. I would have to catch a bus to the train station and then take the train to work in Wellington. Usually I was late for the bus, (6am starts were a killer) and had to run to the station. Love those wellywood trains.
5) Wellington
(Place name in local dialect: Wellywood)
Small town girl hits the bright lights of the big smoke. Vibrant, exciting, and cultured town. Windy and cold. I remember being dressed up in big overcoats in winter, and having to be careful not to be blown into the traffic when waiting to cross the road. Nearly everyone I knew in Wellington was from somewhere else. I got my first job here, and i was on youth rates (translation: poor). I lived here during the pinnacle of the materialistic yuppy period, and probably survived on marmite. So I decided to go back to school, and have never looked back. I love spending time in Wellington now, love the theatre and the art - its the only town in nz that actually looks like a city.
6) Christchurch
(Place name in local dialect: Chch)
This is hands down my favourite city in nz. I have lived here a number of different times and when I return to nz, this is where I would like to settle. I don't care how many earthquakes you have - I love you christchurch!!!
7) Hamilton
(Place name in local dialect: Hamiltron - city of the future. Place name in local Auckland dialect: Cowtown. Place name of Auckland in hamiltronese: Dorkland)
Lived, studied and worked in the mighty Waikato for the longest time. I got back into art here after a long absence, did lots of painting and printmaking. Started the first of my first overseas travels while living here. I really miss the film festivals where i would watch four or five films a week on the big screen. And the art festivals on the banks of the river. Experienced a lot of changes and growth over the time I spent in Hamilton, it really is the city of the future. Watch this space Auckland!
8) Cambridge
Cambridge is a stunningly beautiful little town in the middle of racehorse breeding country. I lived in a tiny, one bedroom 100 year old cottage surrounded with huge trees. The garden constantly changed depending on the season and tuis, waxeyes, fantails and a morepork were regular visitors. I miss snuggling up by the open fire in winter with my cats, and the long, late-night phone calls with Jannine.
11 October 10 at 6:24pm
I don't even have any photos of home. Boo hooo
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13 October 10 at 7:22am
Totally awesome!! you'll aiways get my vote. lol
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13 October 10 at 10:45am
Cheers keith, it will be great to see you if i make it
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Marmite stash discovered on the Coolidge!
Recent earth tremours in Vanuatu have uncovered war-time supplies of marmite on the US president Coolidge in Santo. Santo Island Dive and Fishing owner Mal is concerned about the environmental impact the increased number of divers to the WWII troop ship will make. "Enquires about diving to the 'marmite site' is phenomenal. We need to ensure that we can accommodate these visitors and keep this historic site in it's pristine condition." Rehan from Aquamarine shares his sentiment, and also expresses concern about looting. "It could be just too tempting for a diver to slip one of these precious artefacts into his dive suit, but luckily most marmite fans are good and honest people, so we won't be looking into security options yet." Historians in Santo are not surprised about this major find. "James A Michener made several references to marmite in the first draft of "Tales of the South Pacific". We assumed that marmite supplies have not been previously found on the Coolidge, as they would have been the first thing that the US army salvaged after the ship sunk."
Herbalist intrigued by Marmite
Medicine man Paia grows and manufactures a range of healthy natural products such as tamanu oil and noni-juice. He is now turning his attentions to marmite. "I'm really impressed by the nutritional content and medicinal properties of marmite." "If you are going to be stranded on a deserted island and can only take one item with you, marmite is the food item you should take" advises Paia.
11 October 10 at 12:19pm
Great ... I am online to support my God-daughter, Leah Swan... but I like your herbalist man .. was a healer myself when I was younger ... You get my vote Natalie # 10
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11 October 10 at 2:47pm
Thanks for the vote and the encouragement Beryl! I'll vote for Leah as well.
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Bribe #1
I will make a marmite sandwich for anyone who votes for me.
How can you resist?
11 October 10 at 12:34pm
Can't wait to make them. Cheers for the vote. Hey do you remember, once when we had no money and minimal food, you made home-made bread, and this tasty soup with weeds out of your garden favoured with marmite! I was really impressed. Hahaha this is actually a true story!
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Black Market Marmite Dealers Caught on Camera!
"one blo fifty please" Staff at Roy's nakamal in Luganville were secretly photographed peddling marmite to customers. Nakamal owner Roy had no comment to make apart from "Well... marmite is delicious."
Adventures of marmite in Vanuatu #1
Soaking up some rays at oyster island
List #1: People I would love to see if I get back to nz.
1. My mum and sis in Nelson.
2. My gorgeous son clayton who is an actor and dancer in Auckland - I'm shattered that I have missed so many of your performances.
3.My bro and his kids, Te Poro and Taura. I've been gone so long I am worried that they have probably forgotten who I am.
4. Annie, Jannine, Michelle, Dece, Anna, Felicia and all my good friends from Chemistry and Waikato Uni
5. My uncle Graeme in Rangiora - I miss you and would love to see you
6. One of my oldest and dearest friends, Aline who has just had a beautiful baby girl, and with whom I shared my first adventure in Vanuatu.
7. The lovely people from sanitarium, to thank them for this awesome competition and the opportunity to get back to nz.
8. Keith - Are you still in Nelson? It's been years. thanks to marmite, we could possibly be in the same place at the same time.
9. Joan and the girls at the Waikato Society of Arts.
Miss Espiritu Santo Crowned
Miss Micheal Take was overwhelmed to be crowned Miss Santo last night. She attributes her glowing completion to the marmite facepacks she wears every night. First runner-up Lovelyn, was keen to try her beauty secret.
16 October 10 at 9:25am
hahahhahhahahahha! OMG! wats going on out there...
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International superstar attributes success to marmite
Prior to arriving in Santo, Andrew was a world-famous professional ice-skater. Due to there being a bit of a shortage of ice in vanuatu, he is now the local computer guru. He attributes his success on the international ice stage and in the digital world solely to marmite, "Its great for both stamina and concentration!" Interestingly enough, Andrew actually coined the phrase "Escape from Santo", so he must understand my quest to get home - (Vote for me Andrew)!
Marmite breaks
This is John enjoying a marmite break. He is currently working with me on some top secret projects at my house. That is a dust mask on his head (not a custom ni-Vanuatu head-dress) which proves he was working and was not just taking an extra long marmite break.
Your marmite or your life!
The albino pirates of north santo are said to have descended from sailors who arrived in Vanuatu in 1606 with de Quieros when he thought he had discovered Australia (... a bit further south mate!!). Notably they now high-jack new zealand tourists travelling in the far north, looking through their backpacks for jars of 'black gold'.
Strange.... but true!
Flying foxes are the same colour as marmite, believe it or not! This is my pet, his name is mousey. I'm not convinced he would survive too well if he returns to the wild, he would be hanging out at the supermarket looking for marmite!
11 October 10 at 2:53pm
Definitely, he's pretty keen to entered the wearable arts awards in wellington next year!
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Marmite - the gift for the man who has everything
Ronan was absolutely ecstatic to receive a jar of marmite for his birthday! Curvu was so envious, his hair turned white!
Disco Diva abducted by pirates
A disco diva was abducted by a ruthless squinty-eyed pirate in Santo last night. Luckily we had a jar of marmite to save the day! After some negotiation, Shamus the Shameless was persuaded to trade the fair maiden for a jar of the delicious 'black gold'.
French Army powered by Marmite!
This is my beautiful partner Laurent. He is french and had never tried marmite prior to meeting me. At first he didn't quite believe that anyone would eat this black, oily-looking substance, but now he is totally addicted. I have resorted to hiding jars in the house, otherwise he would scoff the lot! I love him, but I love my marmite too!!!!
13 October 10 at 10:47am
I like this ... hahaha! a vote for you ! Another Swan-ny one!
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Marmite flies the flag in Vanuatu
I live in on the island of Espiritu Santo, in Vanuatu. It is a beautiful place but doesn't compare to nz. This may be your only chance to vote me off the island!
Bring me home Marmite!
I have not been back in nz since 27 July 2008. That is 835 days, or 20,040 hours, or 1,202,400 minutes. Basically it's been way too long!
15 October 10 at 12:47pm
Going well Natalie .. love it ... all the BEST
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15 October 10 at 1:31pm
Going really well ... hee hee fa vote from Leah's Mum
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17 October 10 at 12:08pm
Plenty of love and votes still coming from Leah's team
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16 October 10 at 9:13am
Hi Natalie Some Crackin good photos an comments, you are deffinatly tryn hard. Will have to try this marmite stuff. Michael
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31 October 10 at 1:50am
best of luck for the final countdown!!! Loving your page, and really think your efforts here have not gone unnoticed by Marmite! I'm sure you will be getting back! Thanks for your support!
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31 October 10 at 9:15pm
Hi Natalie ... What am amazing page of posts and photos ... I have watched it grow over the past three weeks and I am not surprised that you are exhausted. Leah, my sister is too. Thank-you for sharing a glimpse of your life in Vanuatu with us all. You are such a lovely person. I wish you every success in gaining a ticket home for Christmas. All the Best X
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380 votes
Judging
Sure, you may have 100,000 facebook friends to vote for you but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re on the plane. It’s a quality, then quantity rule round here. We’ll be making our decision based on originality and creativity, how well your entry fits with the values of the Marmite brand, then popularity.
31 October 10 at 9:56pm
Vote #380. Lucky last vote for the competition, all the best
Report this comment31 October 10 at 11:58pm
Wanted to have the last comment :) Cheers again my island-buddy. Seems like you have some great friends in Vanuatu. XX
Report this comment31 October 10 at 11:58pm
Wanted to have the last comment :) Cheers again my island-buddy. Seems like you have some great friends in Vanuatu. XX
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