1673 days ago

'They'd be dressed like they lived in Ponsonby': Robert Sarkies on why he couldn't make Scarfies today

Nicole Reporter from Dunedin News

Twenty years ago, a 32-year-old Dunedin native cobbled together $250,000 to make a film.

The script, which he wrote with his younger brother, was a black comedy about five Otago University students who luck into a squat – a rambling old house, which, if somewhat derelict, offers the distinct advantage of free power. They soon discover that power is fuelling heat lamps for a massive marijuana plantation in the basement. It's all fun, games and parties until the pot's owner comes back looking for his stash.

The film was, of course, Scarfies, an instant classic that, set against a backdrop of sticky-floored pubs and NPC finals, captured New Zealand student culture, and particularly Dunedin student culture, in a way that hadn't been done before and arguably hasn't since.

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More messages from your neighbours
16 hours ago

Lest we forget...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

On this ANZAC Day, let's take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.

Tell us who are you honouring today. Whether it's a story from the battlefield or a memory of a family member who fought in the war, we'd love you to share your stories below.

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4 days ago

Poll: Does the building consent process need to change?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We definitely need homes that are fit to live in but there are often frustrations when it comes to getting consent to modify your own home.
Do you think changes need made to the current process for building consent? Share your thoughts below.

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

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Does the building consent process need to change?
  • 91.5% Yes
    91.5% Complete
  • 8.1% No
    8.1% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below!
    0.4% Complete
1123 votes