Catherine wrote:

> How does the NZ$ compare to the US$? Just wondering
> because, even though I often think we pay a *lot* for
> CDs in Canada, by the time you figure out exchange
> rates, we probably pay something equivalent to what
> the Americans do.  Most CDs I've seen in stores (not
> doubles) cost around $20 Canadian, give or take a few
> bucks.

I don't think a direct comparison is possible.  At the current exchange
rate, USD$10 = NZD$21.  But that doesn't take into account the cost of
living, etc. (which seems to be higher here).  From the research I've done
on employment in the US (which is extensive!) the salaries are similar, for
example, if I was making $40,000 here, I'd be making about the same in the
US for the same job.  That definitely makes us more expensive!  In other
words, even though our CDs are twice as expensive, my salary isn't twice as
much (at face value) to compensate!

I've used Amazon etc. a few times, for things I can't get here.  I've also
ordered other things (like Jonatha Brooke's signed CD - that cost me around
$55) but only as a last resort.

Personally, I'd rather just live over there - for more than one reason!

> I'm appalled at how much people in the UK, New
> Zealand, Australia & so on end up paying (because you
> live on islands? could that be it?) so, when you look
> at it that way, we shouldn't whine so much.

We are a long way from the USA, and to sell US products you have to get them
here first.  The shipping alone must contribute to the retail cost.

Hell
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