Welcome

I am a freelance journalist, editor, scientific & technical writer, and part-time sailing instructor, based in Wellington, NZ.

I have been writing about some fascinating technological developments, of which the most important is the hydraulic hybrid transmission system. Several manufacturers are putting hydraulic hybrid trucks into production. This technology slashes fuel consumption without putting a battery in the drivetrain - it's more than enough to offset the cost of renewable diesel, and easily cancels out rising fuel prices.

Keep an eye on the Global Ocean Race over the Christmas and New Year. We have two kiwi teams leading the pack in this two-handed circumnavigation. They leave Wellington for Punta del Este, Uruguay, on January 29.

Also, I am working with French naval architect Jérémie Raymond on a paper for the fourth High Performance Yacht Design Conference in Auckland in March 2012. Jérémie's PhD research represents an important step in our understanding of high-performance sailboats. My kspline was a vital part of the programme. If you're interested in designing insanely fast racing yachts you should come to HPYD4 and take in our presentation.

My latest book, From Smoke to Mirrors, lays out a practical plan for developing a fully renewable supply of petrol, diesel, and jet fuel for New Zealand. It's all based on solid, well-known technology, not airy-fairy things that might get invented sometime in the future. This is a book that everyone can read. It looks at the strengths and weaknesses of all the alternatives, and shows why simple, proven solutions are most likely to work. We don't need battery or hydrogen-powered vehicles, but just in case some people really want them, I designed the plan to accommodate these technologies.You'll find everything you need to know about ethanol; biodiesel; renewable petrol, diesel and jet fuel; battery vehicles; hydrogen fuel cell vehicles; hybrids; and a bunch of other technologies I've included because they are interesting, weird, or funny.

My Keep New Zealand Real blog will expand and update the information in From Smoke to Mirrors.

Check out my services page to find out how I can help you or your organisation.