. I would like to persue this interest but not sure how to or if there are any groups/clubs that I could talk with that could help me. I have a scanner. Thanks

Hello Gadabout. I am an active ham so may be able to help you.I suggest that you go onto the NZART website and there is heaps of information there which will help you.
Cheers

I'm a canadian and I was wondering about the state of the radio hobby in NZ. Will try to include later picture of homemade shortwave radio I made.

Hi gadabout and hubbs the info that zl2ady has given is good stuff and if you have not had a look at the nzart web sit then I sugest you look at your local streets for some one that has antennas up around there homes and make an aproch to the house and ask the owner for info.
Amateur radio is still very active here in nz and getting a licence is very easy now not like in the old days but it can cost a lot to set up to start with.
I'm into the hobby and have been since 1992 and before that I was into shortwave listning and CB since I was a kid.gadabout i think boterny downs is in Jaffaville if I am not wrong.
if so then you might like to try contacting nzart and they will be able to put you in contact with the nearest club to you.
Ok lets know how you get on or if you have done anything about it.
cheers de Blue ZL3TT

Hi, zlZady ^& Blue 55
Thanks for your comments, & helpful suggestions. I guess you had thought I'd fallen off the planet or zapped into thin air, but no, here I am. Just lead a busy life. I have gone onto the NZART site, & contacted the club in Papakura. I will pursue it further. Yes, Blue55 I do live in Jaffersville but no, I haven't seen any radio masts around but if I did would most certainly knock on their door. Was in Napier a couple of weeks ago for a line dance weekend, it certainlyu is a pretty place.
Once again thanks to you both.

well I started to write to you and then went to look for a web sit for you and I forgot to save what i had writen and lost it all bugger.
So I will start again.
I'm happy that you have found the nzart site and the local club up there and from what I know they are very good.
if by any chance you dont have any luck with them write to me at my email.
kgsmithblue@xtra.co.nz
you can cut and past this into your email address box to save time writing it.
I will only be to happy to help you with anything.
Like you I have a scanner or 2 maybe 3 plus all my other radio gear.
you will find that 99% of hams have them but they want admit it to you.
You might be intrest to have a look at Com Centres web site as they are in Auckland.
Ham radio does not need to cost you a lot as it is up to you how much you spend on any radio gear.
But as i said if you need help please just ask only to welcome to help you out in anyway;;;;
Now as for cuming to my city how dear you and not telling us thats an over the knee smack your rear end stuff' yea right.
But yes it is a nice city but it is far better in the summer when all the gardens are in flower and the days are very sunny.
ok well I guess thats enough for now hope you can sort things out and go for your ham tickett as we need more women on air to spice things up some hihihihi.
Ok thats it cya soon. blue