The New Cool Exhibition

Thursday 13 October 2005

I'm meant to welcome you and this exhibition to Christchurch and then be quiet.

As a public service entrepreneur the moment I see a rule I have to bend it. So I will. It's worth noting that many of the characteristics that make successful entrepreneurs have also been shown to be the same skills set that gets people into trouble in institutions like schools.

It's also worth noting that all the big ideas of the world started out small. I'm on the board of Kaikoura Whalewatch. When we started that it was nothing but a big idea hatched in hui by the local Iwi.

Now it's listed as one of the world's top eco tourism attractions. It's turned Kaikoura around. And it all started with just two things. An idea and the ears to hear it.

Thanks.