Your thoughts on making Matariki a public holiday
Hi neighbours,
Labour will make Matariki New Zealand's 12th public holiday from 2022 if re-elected, Jacinda Ardern has announced.
The new winter public holiday would fall at some point during the Matariki period, with an expectation that it would always happen on either a Monday or a Friday.
The policy announcement follows a series of public campaigns for Matariki, which acts as the Māori New Year, to be recognised.
We want to hear your thoughts about Matariki becoming a public holiday. Do you support the idea, or are you against it? Perhaps you have a counter proposal.
Share your thoughts here.
Poppa Jim's ACU-XMAS TREE-FORCAST
Peak Tree Time today is between 10am and 1pm. Poppa Jim is predicting a big drop of trees around 11am so get out this morning before the rain sets in.
*Disclaimer. Poppa Jim takes no responsibility whatsoever for the accuracy of this forecast but he guarantees he will have trees whenever you stop by.🤣
Aroha (Love and Compassion) - Day 14
Tāwhirimātea and the Rescued Tītī Birds
In a time of great storms, Tāwhirimātea, Atua of winds and weather, saw the little tītī (muttonbirds) struggling against fierce gales that had scattered their flock. Though known for his ferocity, Tāwhirimātea felt aroha for the vulnerable birds. He calmed the winds and guided the tītī to shelter, teaching the Atua of the forest, Tāne, how to protect them with his trees. The birds thrived, and in gratitude, they became a source of sustenance and companionship for the people.
Moral: True power lies in compassion, and by caring for others, we create harmony in our world.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.3% Yes
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21.8% No
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0.9% Other - I'll share below