Down Under Ditties: Rhymes of Our Times 2023 is a witty and topical collection of poems by David Conway, also known as "Dr DC". Each short rhyme was inspired by a headline or story from the New Zealand Herald, capturing the spirit of everyday life and current affairs across Aotearoa during 2023. From soggy Auckland summers, orange cones and potholes to politics, cricket and community heroes, Conway turns the year's news into light-hearted reflections with a sharp satirical edge. His 'ditty-a-day' project grew into a lively poetic chronicle - clever, funny and distinctly Kiwi, offering readers both laughter and moments of thoughtful recognition. Blending rhyme, humour and social observation, Down Under Ditties 2023 is a snapshot of published news items seen through a wry local lens, celebrating the art of wordplay and the everyday stories that shape national conversation.