Hi Graeme- thanks for getting the blog up and running!

Hopefully this space will provide a real opportunity for our exporters to discuss a whole range of international trade issues in a safe and focused environment.

As this is a distance learning programme and we rarely get to see each other - I thought fellow bloggers might want to see the New Zealand School of Export pictured here with some members of our Advisory Council and Hon Steve Maharey MP, who officially opened the School in December 2007.

Aokautere Park

Our rural setting - looking across Staces Road to farmland with the Tararuas in the distance.

Photo: Graeme Siddle March 25, 2008

Blogging on Exportersblog

The Exportersblog (send your suggestions for a superior name to info@export.ac.nz please) will enable you to have a voice and connect with other people and ideas.

There will be a minimum of comments from the Specialist Advisers - it is YOUR opportunity to:

- ask questions

- offer opinions and tips on course-related topics

- offer opinions on the world of international trade - the exchange rate, FTA with China, etc.

- share links to useful sites

- share a photo and profile of yourself and the kind of exporting you are engaged in

- post photos you've taken on export topics - logistics, marketing and markets

- alert others to forthcoming events

- share experiences and more

Your blog is not open to others to read and post comments. Bloggers are expected to conform to the Content boundaries as set out in the Blogger Content Policy at www.blogger.com/content.g

We at the New Zealand School of Export have set the scene (literally) and hope you will use this opportunity to have 'an exporters common room'.

Graeme