Green-blooded commissioner hopes SA win
Zodwa Lallie is South Africa’s high commissioner to New Zealand, having previously been ambassador to the Ivory Coast, and high commissioner to Ghana. A keen rugby fan and jazz lover, she talks about her plans for the game this weekend, what she enjoys ab
I studied journalism and media studies and have worked in various private sector companies. I was selfemployed, running a small communications consultancy before joining the public service. I have been working for my department for 15 years and served as a head of mission in Ghana and Ivory Coast before being posted here. Being responsible for conducting bilateral relations between our two countries and ensuring that our ties are strengthened. It’s a role I find both challenging and rewarding, as it is quite literally at 24/7 assignment.
Absolutely, my blood is green. Definitely! Considering the time, probably alone from the comfort of my home and will be enjoying running commentary online with other fellow South Africans, especially my son. They will be having more fun and probably enjoying the game, alongside our other favourite pastime, the ‘‘braai’’, which you kiwis call the barbecue. I love the people, they are wonderful, warm, welcoming and helpful. The capital really is cool with plenty to see and do. I love Te Papa. I could do without the wind and the shakes of August 2013, and miss going to the hairdresser to get my dreadlocks done professionally. I’m not a big movie fan. I love documentaries and in-depth interviews with fabulous people. I can watch Nelson Mandela’s life story over and over again. Who cooked Adam Smith’s Dinner by Katrine Marcal – brilliant. I love the way she unpacks the serious issue of women’s contributions to life’s endeavours and achievements by great men going unheralded in a light, bright, and breezy manner. Being slothful, and just chilling, recovering from a hectic working week. Catching up with all the Sky recordings I would have made during the week, and sometimes having drinks with my lovely neighbours and other friends I’ve made. Jazz, jazz, jazz and Caii Michelle, ‘‘the voice of Aotearoa’’. Madiba (Nelson Mandela, as he’s affectionately called by his clan name); Diana Krall, the great canadian jazz singer; Princess Diana; and Oprah. And to drink? A South African chardonnay, which is full-bodied, buttery and yummy; a crisp New Zealand sauvignon blanc; and some pinot noir.