NZ Easter Show, Hot Cross Buns and the Police

Today is Thursday, the start of a long weekend in New Zealand, is also the start of the long-running Easter Show.  It has been a fixture in New Zealand for 160 years, known then as the A&P Show now known as the Coca-Cola Easter Show.  Every year the crowd grows bigger and bigger to this much awaited show.  In all my years in this fascinating country I've never had the privilege of attending the show.  Perhaps this year may be different.  I have four days to work this out!

Another traditional fare of this season are the hot cross buns.  With a very interesting history, it has become a big time favourite for Kiwis around this time of the year.  It's popularity has drawn people to some superstitious beliefs---hanging one in front of ones house will ward away bad luck in the coming year others believe that sharing this bun will ensure friendship throughout the year.  Personally, I'd rather eat this spicy, fruity, sweet bread, made with currants or raisins and adorned with a cross on the top.

And finally, the NZ Police is appealing for people to be a responsible and caring driver.  Three fatal crashes and 106 reported injury crashes happened last year.  Police are enforcing a reduced speed threshold of 4km/h from 4pm today until the end of the extended holiday period at 6am on Monday, April 28.  We have a very long weekend starting with Good Friday and extending up to Anzac Day next Friday.  Please be safe everyone!