Working Girl, Part 1

Big news! I have successfully infiltrated the New Zealand government. I have taken on a new full-time job in addition to my part-time job. I'm a glutton for punishment. I regret this decision almost immediately, but it will only last a few weeks. Plus, this exposes me to a whole new side of the Kiwi culture. I should know better than to blog about work (you're fired!), but I feel compelled to tell you to start searching for jobs in New Zealand right now. Employment is one big party.

A peek inside the office kitchen cupboard gives me the first clue. One shelf of coffee mugs, one shelf of drinking glasses, and one shelf of wine glasses. While searching for office supplies, I come across a filing cabinet full of cases (plural!) of beer. Later, my supervisor tells me to make sure no one breaks into the booze supply. I'm on it, boss! He asks if I have an adequate supply of rubbers. Who has he been talking to?! I know he's referring to rubber bands, but this still makes me laugh. He also tells me they usually have "some wines" on Fridays if I'm interested. Yes, very much so. Just to make sure we're totally clear on this, he reminds me again on Thursday, "Remember we're having drinkies tomorrow" (accompanied by the international gesture for drinking - tilting an imaginary glass to his mouth). Oh believe me, I most certainly will not forget about the drinkies.

This isn't unique to my department. Dawn's office does the same thing. It's not as if they leave early to go to happy hour or congregate in the conference room at 4:30 for a quick drink before going home. They simply pour themselves a glass of wine at their desk and continue "working." Who isn't at her best when she's under the influence? Not the Kiwis! Not me!

I know other countries have relaxed attitudes toward drinking, but this still surprises me. I don't think it would be allowed in the American workplace, right?? At least not in a government office. Cheers to you, taxpayers of New Zealand! Thank you for the beer.