By Dan Parker
The Desert Rose is Ahmed Zaoui's new business and it symbolises a new chapter in his life.
"It’s a big moment to have your kids and friends here and around you,” says Mr Zaoui.
After finding it difficult to gain employment in Palmerston North the former Algerian politician and alleged national security risk decided to open his own kebab shop. It's taken months of hard work.
“This is one part of the healing process, to have got a job. Don't look back, look forward and look to give back to the community and contribute to the country,” says Mr Zaoui.
Zaoui says it's a country he only has love for despite spending two years in prison waiting for security clearance and refugee status. Many of his old friends were in town today for the big opening.
“Certainly I reflect over all the years and it's nice to be here today I wish him well in his new business venture,” say Deborah Manning, Mr Zaoui’s friend.
Zaoui's first kebab sold for $615 all of the proceed will go to charity.
“It's the best kebab I've ever tasted,” says Max Cross, customer.
That's one of the ways he wants to give back to all of the people who have supported him since he arrived.
“My specialty is a fish kebab, fresh fish with salmon. I have some special Algerian curry and a lot of Algerian sweets,”
Zaoui says owning his own business is like owning his own piece of the New Zealand dream and he's looking forward to sharing his traditional Algerian cuisine with anyone in Palmerston North.
3 News
source: newshub archive
