Pacific Language Weeks to begin
The first of 11 Pacific Language Weeks for 2024 is next week, as we look forward to celebrating the many varied cultures and identities of the Pacific communities in Porirua.
For the first time, two new languages have been added to the calendar, as we recognise the language of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. These join Rotuma, Samoa, Kiribati, Cook Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Fiji, Niue and Tokelau.
The overarching theme of the language weeks for 2024 is sustainability, aligning with UNESCO’s long-term vision to protect indigenous languages, not just in the Pacific but worldwide. Sustainability can include the physical, but also language – which incorporates heritage and identity – with UNESCO saying at least 40 per cent of the world’s 7000 languages are in danger of being lost.
Pacific Language Week dates for 2024:
Rotuma: 12–18 May
Samoa: 26 May–1 June
Kiribati: 7–13 July
Cook Islands: 4–10 August
Tonga: 18–24 August
Tuvalu: 29 September–5 October
Fiji: 6–12 October
Niue: 13–19 October
Tokelau: 27 October–2 November
Papua New Guinea: 10–16 November
Solomon Islands: 24–30 November
Keep an eye on Council’s social media to find out about the flag-raising events and other activities.
Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.
How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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28.5% With a city-wide public fireworks display
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20.3% Small fireworks displays in each community
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7.7% Keep it as is
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32.9% We shouldn't celebrate it!
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10.3% Anything but fireworks
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0.4% Other - I'll share below
Solve This Riddle or Be Left Scratching Your Head!
With pointed fangs, I sit and wait;
with piercing force, I crunch out fate.
I grab victims, proclaiming might,
and physically join with a single bite.
What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Celebrating International Volunteer Managers Day
We had a wonderful morning celebrating Te Whanganui-a-Tara volunteer managers at our International Volunteer Managers Day breakfast event.
It was inspiring to bring together local change-makers to discuss this year's theme: 'what's our future normal?' We shared reflections and aspirations for how we can play a role in shaping a stronger and brighter future for the voluntary sector.
Thank you so much to our generous sponsors Lighthouse Cinema, t leaf T, The Candle Shop, Wonderland Chocolate, Zealandia and Oat Cafe.
Amazing catering provided by Blue Carrot
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