It was so easy to feel at home
Paul Maxwell, originally from Guildford in the UK, is the man behind some classic Kiwi and international TV ads.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been here?
I moved from Australia, where I was based from 1971 to 1985, to New Zealand through my connection with Air New Zealand. In the late-70s and early-80s, I edited a number of promotional videos that ran on its international flights.
What do you do here?
As a film editor, I was able to work from Wellington on many high-end TV commercials for top brands, including all the earliest Lotto ads, Toyota (Welcome To Our World, for instance); Air New Zealand, of course; Qantas (‘‘I Still Call Australia Home’’); Singapore Airlines; the first ad for MasterCard; and all the major beer, bank and insurance brands. In the past few years I have been editing films and TV series.
What surprised you most when you first arrived?
I am not easily surprised! What struck me most was how easy it was to feel comfortable and totally at home when I moved to New Zealand, and I have felt the same ever since.
What are the greatest advantages to living here?
The main advantage to me, personally, is the ease of being able to work in my chosen profession. There is a lot of support for newcomers, with those already established willing to help those starting out.
What do you do in your spare time?
I am now based in Napier, and my ‘‘spare’’ time is spent with my children and grandchildren. I also volunteer at events such as the Cricket World Cup, national road cycling championships and ITU triathlons.
What are your favourite New Zealand foods?
I am allergic to seafood so I miss out on New Zealand’s excellent local fare from river and sea. I like the fresh vegetables from the markets, but confess that my favourite dishes are still those from Italy and Central Europe. Luckily for me, there are restaurants in Auckland, and one in Napier, that are as good as any in Italy!
How do you get around?
I am based in Napier but work mainly in Auckland, Wellington and occasionally further afield (Melbourne, Northern Italy). Most of my travel is with Air New Zealand, although I quite enjoy the relaxation of sitting on an intercity bus! Shame there are so few train services in New Zealand. At home in Napier, I get around on foot, by bicycle and in my elderly Saab convertible.
Favourite after-dark activity?
My favourite after-dark activity is definitely sleep! I do love going to the weekly quiz night at the local with my daughter and grandson, and taking the younger grandchildren to the movies.
What are the top three things you recommend for visitors?
Despite living in New Zealand for more than 30 years, my time travelling in the South Island has been limited, but that doesn’t prevent me from encouraging visitors to go. I really enjoy engaging with overseas travellers and giving them tips on places to visit and dine that are unlikely to be in their guide book.
Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
There is nothing much that I miss about living in London and Sydney. But top-quality football (soccer) is one!
How easy is it for you to go home?
My first trip back to the UK was a football trip with my oldest daughter and I have only been back once since, on my way to work in Europe. I made sure to visit some museums and art galleries, the only other activity that is a favourite.