Swedes Seek “Happy People” In N.Z.

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30038, 24 January 1963, Page 16

Swedes Seek “Happy People” In N.Z.

Happy people in a happy community” has long been the motto of a family rubbermanufacturing business run by Mr G. Osterman, of Sweden. From what he had read of New Zealand, Mr Osterman always thought that the motto was applicable to this country—and last evening he arrived in Christchurch to find out for himself, accompanied by his wife, and six-year-old daughter, Britt “Our first impressions? When we got off the plane after flying over those beautiful mountains with the snow on them, we said this is exactly what we have read about*” said Mr Osterman. Mr Osterman mentioned “a little red tape" over entry formalities at the airport. "Why are you so interested in where my wife’s mother was born?" he asked. **l don't know, anyway." But he wa* impressed with the courtesy and helpfulness of the officials who carried out their routine with commendable smoothness. This is a holiday and business trip for Mr Osterman. He is here to see something of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company's operation, and renew acquaintance with Mr C. W. Campbell a principal of the Firestone company, who previously worked with Mr Osterman in Sweden. Mr Osterman’s company makes motor tvres under licence from the Firestone company. There was plenty of business for tyre manufacturers in Sweden—more cars were

appearing on the Swedish roads every ytear, Mr Osterman said. Sweden now had 1.5 million vehicles among a population of seven million (compared with New Zealand's 800,000 vehicles among 2.5 million people). Vehicle registrations in Sweden were increasing at the rate of 100,000 a year. Driving on Right Swedes, who previously drove on the left of the road, had now decided to change to the right. It was true that a referendum in Sweden five years ago had favoured the retention of left-hand driving. “But now, in making the decision, they saw that we must ignore the referendum,” he said. “This is because only a small percentage voted, many who voted did not drive cars, and those who did drove on the left anyway. and so were prejudiced." The general picture in Sweden today was of an upward trend said Mr Osterman- “although the iron and wood-pulp industries have reached a state of over-pro-duction, and are concerning us a little." There was only slight unemployment, and at the same time a shortage ot specialised labour in most industries. "New Zealand has a reputation for its high standard of living, and as one of the most beautiful spots in the world." Mr Osterman said. “We hope to find out if you are living up to your reputation. At any rate, we have heard that the climate is just right for Swedes."