Brian OConnell
I was born in Gisborne New Zealand and trained as a Mathematics and Physics teacher. My New Zealand career was spent in Auckland reaching the position of principal firstly at Otahuhu College and secondly at Whangaparaoa College.
Family
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Countries where I have lived.
New Zealand
I left New Zealand to experience different cultures. I still love New Zealand but will probably not live there again – the cost of living will see to that.
Australia
I worked in Australia for 2 and a half years. It was a great time with so many exciting things to see and do. And many great friends made.
I did find the undercurrent of racism especially in education difficult. Coming from New Zealand that was a challenge.
For this reason I could not live there again.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh was both a surprise and a shock. A life changing experience.
So much to see and experience just walking down the street.
Friends made that will last forever.
China
I was stunned by China. The food, the culture, the nature, the cities. All incredible.
But the people were even more amazing and they made my China experience special.
It is my favourite country to have lived in and I would go back there tomorrow if I could.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan came out of nowhere. One day I did not have a job and the next day I am off to Uzbekistan.
So much history and so much to experience.
Everyone needs to visit at least once.
Cambodia
I first came to Cambodia when in a very sad place. But it made me happy then and 12 years later it still does.
It is now home and where I will be for the rest of my life.
Thank you to the people of Kampuchea.
