BigCake is the blog of Mike Booker, a freelance writer and director of Porirua-based communications company Booker Martin Communications.

He has long been interested in the riddle of New Zealand’s economic growth story. Why are we good at so many things that should at least give us average economic growth by first world standards, when in reality we are such a poor performer.

In particular BigCake is fascinated by the “behind the scenes” factors that drive economic growth – What’s the role of our history? Is there a cultural heritage that leads us unthinkingly along certain paths? Why do we put less emphasis on the money factor in quality of life measures than other countries? Where did the tall poppy thing come from? And No8 wire?

They’re fun, and hopefully enlightening questions, to look into.

His background includes:

• Director of public relations consultancy Booker Martin Communications (current).
• Writer, including regular gigs for Idealog, the Asia New Zealand Foundation and New Zealand Retail magazine.
• New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s (and predecessor Industry New Zealand’s) communications team (2001 — 2006)
• Kiwi Rail (then Tranz Rail) communications and marketing (1999 – 2001)
• Press Officer, the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry (UK inquiry into police) 1998
• Senior Press Secretary, office of Treasurer and Deputy Prime Minister: 1996 – 1997 (yes that was Winston)
• Assorted journalism jobs in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom for newspapers and agencies, writing mainly on business and politics.
• Interests (in no particular order): cycling, sport, music and history.

Contact: bigcakenz@gmail.com