15: Kiwi Kickoff

500 Cats

On this episode of 500 Cats, the team embarks on their first adventure in the Land of the Long White Cloud—New Zealand! Managing all things IT and internet from Taupō during the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship, Ryan and Dylan share their hilariously chaotic journey navigating left-hand driving, trenching cables in parks, and learning Kiwi slang. With just “one battery bar” left on their recorder, the duo captures the essence of Taupō’s warm hospitality and unbeatable vibe.

From tales of digging trenches for Cat5 cables to surviving New Zealand customs with a last-minute import plan, the episode dives into the challenges of international event production. Plus, hear about the town’s incredible embrace of the event, local dining quirks, and the cool new tech at the Hoka expo.

Highlights

•One bar left: The struggle is real for amateur podcasters.

•Cable chaos: Trenching like pros (or not).

•Taupō tales: Left-hand driving and the best McDonald’s in the world.

•Event vibes: Meet the Kiwi locals and athletes.

•Hoka spotlight: The future of running tech.

Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a sneak peek at life behind the scenes of one of the year’s biggest triathlon events!

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