Wow, what a week it has been! Having flown up to Wellington for the WeBo Music Festival, I was fortunate enough to spend the afternoon on a special tour of the MetService office. It was extremely interesting talking to one of the forecasters, Tom, about the different programs they use and the data they collect, especially with my passion for meteorology. Thanks to the MetService team for having me and for introducing me to the forecasting team and equipment. The research, communication and plethora of activities conducted in MetService HQ is incredible, though the lightning tracking would have to have been my favourite. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face for the entire tour!

I also had the absolute privilege of meeting up with Deborah Russell, Labour MP for New Lynn and Chair of the Environment Select Committee while up in Wellington. I’m really excited and honoured to have Deborah coming down to Christchurch for next year’s EnviroPAST conference — Plastic And Sustainability Talks — and thankful for all the tips she gave me heading into the event! Thanks Deborah!