15 mins of fame
This summer, The Dominion Post hit the streets to ask people a series of random questions. Today, we hear from Helen McNaught.
If environmental funds allowed only one to be saved, would it be fish or birds? Why? Birds. I have a (possibly unrealistic) faith that the sea will sort itself out despite human efforts.
Is there intelligent life on other planets?
Yes, and they are already here among us. No, really . . .
In what circumstances – if any – might you kill somebody? Tempting . . . if I’m ever a secret agent again.
In 30 words, what do you make of the New Zealand natural environment?
I worry that we don’t realise how very, very, very lucky we are. Nothing lifts my spirits quite as much as being in the mountains, the bush, on, or in, the sea. It’s a treasure and we all have a responsibility to protect it.
What is the most beautiful part of New Zealand in summer and why?
Wellington. Definitely Wellington. Most people don’t realise it because they go to other places for the holidays. Queenstown is nice for the lake and the hikes and the scary rides. Wellington first, then Queenstown.
What’s the best concert you’ve been to? The Placido Domingo concert in 2011 in Christchurch to raise funds post-quake. The audience took until the second half to become really enthusiastic. Music heals.
Gluten-free . . . modern medical discovery or a modern fad?
I am passionately in love with gluten, especially the pastries from People’s cafe´ in Newtown. Can’t begin to imagine life without gluten.
What’s your favourite shop?
Cranfields, Moore Wilson’s, Kowtow, Yvette Edwards’ Florist in Tory St. How can there ever be just one favourite shop?
What person was important to you growing up?
My Aunt Doris was this amazing woman. A young teacher in the central North Island, she refused to get on the train that was tragically washed away in the Tangiwai disaster on Christmas Eve 1953. I hoped I’d inherit her super powers and be able to predict the Lotto results. Sadly, I have not.
Would you like to be famous? Why or why not?
Clearly you don’t realise just who I am.