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In a small town on the North Island of New Zealand, there was a young Māori student named Te Rangi who lived with his whānau in a rural area. Te Rangi was a high school student, studying for his NCEA qualifications, and he had a particular passion for performing the haka—a traditional Māori … View moreIn a small town on the North Island of New Zealand, there was a young Māori student named Te Rangi who lived with his whānau in a rural area. Te Rangi was a high school student, studying for his NCEA qualifications, and he had a particular passion for performing the haka—a traditional Māori dance that his iwi (tribe) had been practicing for generations.
Te Rangi was also a member of his school’s kapa haka group, a team that performed Māori cultural songs and dances for various competitions and events. However, unlike many of his classmates, Te Rangi wasn’t raised in an urban environment where Māori language and traditions were easily accessible. He had learned haka from his kuia (grandmother) and his uncle, but he was aware that many of the other students in his kapa haka group came from whānau that were more involved in te ao Māori (the Māori world) and were better at mastering the haka and te reo Māori.
The school year was coming to a close, and the big regional kapa haka competition was approaching. Te Rangi felt the pressure. He knew his group had strong performers, but he was worried about his own ability to perform well under the scrutiny of judges, especially when it came to the solo haka part of the competition. This section of the performance required deep emotional connection, precision in movements, and the ability to lead with confidence—skills Te Rangi was still developing.
One week before the competition, something unexpected happened. The kapa haka group’s tutor, who had been guiding them for months, fell ill and could no longer lead the group. The students were told they would have to perform without their tutor, and the responsibility fell on the shoulders of the older students in the group, including Te Rangi. They would have to organise their own rehearsals and make sure everything was ready in time for the competition.
Most of the students were worried and frustrated. They felt like they had lost their guide, and many of them struggled to stay focused. Te Rangi, however, decided that he wasn’t going to let the situation stop him. While the others were distracted by the uncertainty, he started staying after school to practice his haka on his own. He would go to the marae (Māori meeting house) in the evenings to connect with the land and the spirit of his ancestors, seeking the strength to improve his performance.
He practiced the haka over and over, refining his movements, listening carefully to the words, and even studying the history and meaning behind the chants. He sought advice from his uncle and aunties, who taught him the deeper significance of the haka beyond the movements—the emotional strength, the mana (prestige), and the connection to whakapapa (ancestry).
On the day of the competition, Te Rangi was ready. When it came time for his solo haka, the crowd was captivated. His movements were sharp, his voice was strong, and his eyes burned with the confidence and pride that only someone who had connected deeply with their culture could express. He led the haka with such conviction that the audience felt the spirit of his ancestors rise with him.
In the end, his school didn’t win first place at the competition. But Te Rangi’s performance stood out, and he was praised by the judges for his commitment to his culture and his ability to overcome adversity. His classmates, who had been doubtful and distracted, were inspired by his persistence and determination. They, too, began to practice harder, and the group as a whole performed better than they had imagined.
While Te Rangi didn’t walk away with a trophy, he left the competition with something far more valuable: the knowledge that perseverance, hard work, and dedication to his roots had led to a performance that he could be truly proud of. He had earned respect from his peers, from the judges, and from himself.
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Moral of the Story:
Te Rangi’s success came not from being the best dancer or having the most natural talent, but from his dedication to improvement and his unwavering focus. His story teaches that no matter what challenges or obstacles one faces, if you persist and put in the effort, you can overcome them and grow stronger. Whether it's in the haka, a classroom, or any other aspect of life, persistence and dedication are the keys to success.
Ryman villages across the country are open every Wednesday in November.
Experience the Ryman lifestyle and learn about our living options, tour our showhomes and discover the wonderful amenities on offer.
Click to find out more information.
You see a boat filled with people.
It has not sunk, but when you look again you don’t see a single person on the boat.
Why?
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… View moreYou see a boat filled with people.
It has not sunk, but when you look again you don’t see a single person on the boat.
Why?
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.
For the first time in New Zealand, Disney: The Magic of Animation is coming to Wellington, showcasing over 600 iconic objects, including rare artwork and original sketches. Visitors will journey through nearly a century of Disney’s animation history, with characters from ‘Steamboat Willie’ … View moreFor the first time in New Zealand, Disney: The Magic of Animation is coming to Wellington, showcasing over 600 iconic objects, including rare artwork and original sketches. Visitors will journey through nearly a century of Disney’s animation history, with characters from ‘Steamboat Willie’ (1928) to ‘Moana 2’ (2024). Interactive stations and immersive experiences await visitors of all ages.
Early bird tickets are now available until the end of the year, with a special Christmas Family Pack deal offering 2 adults and 2 kids for just $50.
Don’t miss this magical experience—book your tickets now!
Are you ready to score the best deals? Whether it’s the new iPhone 16, a laptop, or homeware, now’s the time to save big!
Check out our Ultimate Black Friday Survival Guide for essential tips and tricks to maximize your savings.
Congrats to the winners of the $100 Grocery vouchers:
Lynette Baker from Palmerston North
Maurice Higgs from Nelson
Rafael Laverde from Miramar
Janet Atkinson from Masterton
If you're a winner, get in touch here before 26th November.
Not a winner this week? There's always … View moreCongrats to the winners of the $100 Grocery vouchers:
Lynette Baker from Palmerston North
Maurice Higgs from Nelson
Rafael Laverde from Miramar
Janet Atkinson from Masterton
If you're a winner, get in touch here before 26th November.
Not a winner this week? There's always next week!
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
Sometimes narrow, sometimes wide, wind or rain, I stay outside.
Even if there’s heat or snow, from house to house I will still go.
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… View moreSometimes narrow, sometimes wide, wind or rain, I stay outside.
Even if there’s heat or snow, from house to house I will still go.
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.
Hi Neighbours - Join our friendly small group for the final session of the year, includes gentle movement and relaxing simple meditation, and option for a chat and a cuppa too.
With me, Eve Rudkin, registered teacher of Mindfulness-Based Stress-Reduction.
Today 1.30 - 2.45pm. Meadowbank … View moreHi Neighbours - Join our friendly small group for the final session of the year, includes gentle movement and relaxing simple meditation, and option for a chat and a cuppa too.
With me, Eve Rudkin, registered teacher of Mindfulness-Based Stress-Reduction.
Today 1.30 - 2.45pm. Meadowbank Community Centre
First time free, then Koha welcome. 0212551485 www.everudkinmindfulness.co.nz...
Ongoing on the 3rd Monday of the month. (Except December!)
Click Read More to find out more about what I do - I also offer one-on-one sessions and custom courses for group bookings.
At MIT, we have options for everyone – from open entry programmes which don't need NCEA, through to degree-level qualifications.
So don't wait for NCEA results. Help your school leaver put their plans in place for 2025.
Hi, I'm interested to house sit for anyone around Remuera or nearby suburbs over the holiday weeks. 🎄🎁
I have a cat I'd like to spend time with as I'm not allowed to have him where I live currently.
My cat minder is going overseas for three weeks from 22 December 2024.
… View moreHi, I'm interested to house sit for anyone around Remuera or nearby suburbs over the holiday weeks. 🎄🎁
I have a cat I'd like to spend time with as I'm not allowed to have him where I live currently.
My cat minder is going overseas for three weeks from 22 December 2024.
I'm honest, respectful of others privacy and property. I'm very clean and tidy and I will happily do jobs like basic garden work while you're away to keep busy. 🙂
I'm keeping options open reaching out on Neighbourly as well as signing up on a house sitting website.
If you or you know of anyone who's looking for a house sitter please feel free to contact me on the below.
WhatsApp or mobile: 0212925444.
Facebook: Marissa Bürkle
LinkedIn: Marissa Burkle
Hi everyone!
As the seasons change, it’s time to think about your home’s exterior. Inspecting for cracks, peeling, or other signs of wear is crucial to maintaining your property. Small issues can lead to bigger problems if not addressed.
If you notice any concerns, don’t hesitate to … View moreHi everyone!
As the seasons change, it’s time to think about your home’s exterior. Inspecting for cracks, peeling, or other signs of wear is crucial to maintaining your property. Small issues can lead to bigger problems if not addressed.
If you notice any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out! At Texturite, we specialise in repairs and restorations to ensure your home stays protected from the elements.
📞 027 341 3454 📍 Serving the Kapiti / Wellington region
We have a room for rent. This would suit someone wanting to store items. Call to discuss options. Power and internet available. Dominion road Mt Eden.
027 232 6424
Call now for free consultation
• Complete Denture
• Partial Denture
• Same day Denture relines and repairs
• Provide WINZ Quote and insurance claim.
Contact us at 09 634 4543.
12C Waddon Place, Māngere, Auckland 2022
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access … View moreThe Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
For only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in Clarks Beach, Auckland.
This coastal town offers the perfect escape, just a short drive from the city.
Valued at over $1 million, this home features three bedrooms and generous open-plan kitchen, … View moreFor only $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in Clarks Beach, Auckland.
This coastal town offers the perfect escape, just a short drive from the city.
Valued at over $1 million, this home features three bedrooms and generous open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. It is waiting to be loved by its new owner.
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Get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz
In a lush forest known as Greenvale, there was a powerful lion named Rudo. Rudo was the undisputed king of the forest. Tall and strong, with a magnificent golden mane, he ruled the animals with an iron paw. His roars echoed through the forest, a reminder to every creature that Rudo was the ultimate… View moreIn a lush forest known as Greenvale, there was a powerful lion named Rudo. Rudo was the undisputed king of the forest. Tall and strong, with a magnificent golden mane, he ruled the animals with an iron paw. His roars echoed through the forest, a reminder to every creature that Rudo was the ultimate ruler. But as time went on, his pride grew, and so did his arrogance. He dismissed the smaller animals and ignored the advice of his wise old advisor, an owl named Sable, who constantly urged him to rule with kindness and respect.
Meanwhile, in Greenvale’s quiet northern corner, a clever young fox named Finnegan had been growing popular. Unlike Rudo, Finnegan was not strong or fierce, but he was cunning, resourceful, and compassionate. He helped animals in need, shared food with the hungry, and listened to everyone, big or small. The animals in Greenvale admired him and trusted him more than they did the mighty Rudo.
One day, Finnegan cautiously approached Rudo to suggest a partnership. "Rudo, the animals are growing unhappy. They fear you, but they don’t respect you. If we work together, I believe we could make Greenvale thrive."
Rudo laughed scornfully. "Why would I need help from a lowly fox like you? Go back to your burrow before I remind you who rules here."
Hurt but undeterred, Finnegan left, determined to continue serving the animals in his own way. But Sable, the wise owl, had heard everything. She knew that Rudo’s pride would be his downfall if he didn’t change.
Soon, a drought hit Greenvale. Streams dried up, and food became scarce. The animals were growing weaker and desperate. Rudo, refusing to leave his pride aside, hoarded what little water remained, drinking from a secret pool known only to him. The other animals were left to fend for themselves, growing hungrier and angrier each day.
Finnegan, however, gathered a team of animals willing to work together. He instructed the beavers to dig deep channels to find hidden water and asked the birds to scout for fruits and nuts in distant areas. Slowly, the animals began to thrive under Finnegan’s leadership, sharing resources and surviving despite the drought.
Eventually, word spread through the forest that Finnegan’s coalition was thriving while Rudo’s group grew weaker. Even some of Rudo’s loyal followers began to join Finnegan, realizing that he offered them the kindness and collaboration they needed.
Days passed, and the once-mighty Rudo was now left with only a few supporters. Alone and desperate, he was forced to wander the forest, searching for food and water just as the smaller animals once had. One day, he encountered Sable, who hooted at him knowingly. "Remember, Rudo, strength without respect is meaningless. True power comes from earning the trust of others."
Humbled, Rudo approached Finnegan, his head lowered. "I was wrong, Finnegan. I let my pride cloud my judgment. Will you help me now?"
Finnegan nodded, extending a friendly paw. "The forest belongs to all of us, Rudo. Together, we can make it strong again."
With Finnegan’s guidance and the cooperation of all the animals, Greenvale flourished once more. Rudo learned to listen to others and treated the smallest animals with respect. In time, he regained his place in the forest hierarchy—not as a feared tyrant, but as a trusted leader.
From that day on, Rudo understood that even the mightiest can fall if they let arrogance guide them. And so, Greenvale became a forest where strength and wisdom walked paw-in-paw, and every creature learned the value of respect and humility.
MRI provides modern medical solutions for a wide range of events and industries. From local sporting or community events - to large concerts and major festivals - we can provide tailored and professional medical cover that suits your needs.
Our experienced team of clinicians and operations … View moreMRI provides modern medical solutions for a wide range of events and industries. From local sporting or community events - to large concerts and major festivals - we can provide tailored and professional medical cover that suits your needs.
Our experienced team of clinicians and operations managers can provide a complete risk assessment of your event and advise you on the most suitable medical expertise to have on site.
Get in touch with the team today at info@mri.nz
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Premium care just meters away form our village. Join our caring community, where passion thrives. Trust Terrace Kennedy House for exceptional care and meaningful connections.
Dear Neighbors,
I’ve come across something I truly believe can make a positive impact, and I’m excited to share it with you! Over the next 54 days, I will be sharing a series of 54 moral stories (one a day) that encourage children to think deeply and adopt valuable life lessons. These stories … View moreDear Neighbors,
I’ve come across something I truly believe can make a positive impact, and I’m excited to share it with you! Over the next 54 days, I will be sharing a series of 54 moral stories (one a day) that encourage children to think deeply and adopt valuable life lessons. These stories are designed to instill ethics, values, and morals that will help shape a better future for our kids.
I’d love to hear your feedback along the way so we can evaluate the outcomes together and make sure this effort benefits our community in the best possible way.
Please note, this is a non-religious, non-cultural initiative. If any names (People, places etc...) in the stories seem tied to a particular belief system, feel free to adjust them to better align with your own, as the core focus is on values and positive character-building.
Looking forward to your thoughts and feedback!
The Ant, Bird & Hunter
There was an ant which fell into a river accidentally and the river was flowing rapidly.The ant would have died after getting drowned in the river, but luckily for the ant there was a bird sitting on a tree above that saw the ant. The bird plucked out a leaf from the tree, flew a short distance, and put it into the river just in time for the ant to climb onto the leaf. The ant floated on the leaf for a while and finally when the river was calm it reached land.
After it reached land, the ant dismounted the leaf, felt thankful that its life had been saved by the bird and headed off to thank the bird which saved its life. In a few hours, it reached the place where the bird was seated on the tree. The ant was about to climb the tree to thank the bird but it observed a hunter was about to shoot down the bird on the tree. The bird had not noticed the hunter.
The ant decided to take action immediately, and thereby help its friend, the bird. The ant went and began biting the feet of the hunter. The irritated hunter could not aim carefully and missed shooting his prey, the bird, as his feet had been bitten by the ant.
The moral of the story is that we may all be very small persons but we must try our best to help our friends under all circumstances. Returning a favor is as important as accepting a favor.
Trays are such a useful item to have in the home – they are obviously great for serving food and drinks, particularly breakfast in bed! Find out how to create your own with Resene wallpaper and Resene Colorwood wood stain with these easy step by step instructions.
This very stylish piece can be used anywhere, so versatile.. Currently been used as an office desk.
Its ash blonde or oak in colour
Slight discolour near front but really great condition
1400 x 760
Excellent condition
Pick up Parnell
$100
Is the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one … View moreIs the flooring at your school, early childhood, community or sports centre old and threadbare? Or perhaps you have a new space where there’s no flooring at all. Your organisation could be eligible to receive $2,000 + gst from the RhinoKids Flooring Fund to go towards new flooring. Plus, one lucky organisation will win a $20,000 flooring makeover!
Carpet Court is continuing its’ mission to help improve Kiwi kids’ learning environments by rolling out its’ nationwide fund for the fifth year in a row. Apply today!
The annual Highwic Pop-up Christmas shop opens on Friday 29th November, 1pm – 4pm (join us for complimentary drinks, Christmas mince pies, and croquet on the lawn), and runs through until Sunday 22nd December.
Lots of lovely stocking fillers, tree decorations, and retro inspired gifts.
Shop … View moreThe annual Highwic Pop-up Christmas shop opens on Friday 29th November, 1pm – 4pm (join us for complimentary drinks, Christmas mince pies, and croquet on the lawn), and runs through until Sunday 22nd December.
Lots of lovely stocking fillers, tree decorations, and retro inspired gifts.
Shop entry is free normal house entry applies
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Members receive a 10% discount in the shop.
www.highwic.co.nz... | 09 524 5762
Haven Falls are very blessed to be opening their new branch in Rotorua.
Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall and extended off road parking.
We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around … View moreHaven Falls are very blessed to be opening their new branch in Rotorua.
Located at 271 Old Taupo Road, Rotorua these facilities offer a large chapel, dining hall and extended off road parking.
We invite you at anytime to pop in and speak with one of our team members and have a look around the facilities offered.
We operate 24 hours 7 days a week.
0800 428366
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