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1209 days ago

North Shore high school amends uniform policy so students may show tā moko and taonga Māori

Caroline Williams Reporter from North Shore Times

Westlake Boys High School has amended its uniform policy, allowing students to wear tā moko and taonga Māori.

The high decile school had a review of its uniform policy after two senior students, from Ngāpuhi, Te Aupōuri and Te Rarawa in the Far North, were said to be “deeply hurt” by a request to hide their tā moko last year.

Tā moko are traditional tattoos on the face or body done under traditional protocols. The designs typically represent the wearer’s iwi (tribe) and whakapapa (ancestry).

Following complaints from the students’ whānau, a hui was held, prompting the school board to review and amend its uniform policy.

Now, students may wear visible tā moko, as well as mau kakī, hei tiki and whakakai – traditional Māori neck pendants usually made with pounamu (greenstone) or bone.

Te Pouarataki o Te Huarahi Reo Rua (leader of the bilingual programme) Johnny Waititi said the policy amendment meant there were fewer barriers for Māori students to express themselves without fear of being “growled at” or looked at differently.

“We’ve made some really big movement in honour of kaupapa Māori (topic) and te ao Māori (the Māori world view).”

Click 'read more' for the full story.

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More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
  • 28.7% With a city-wide public fireworks display
    28.7% Complete
  • 19.6% Small fireworks displays in each community
    19.6% Complete
  • 7.9% Keep it as is
    7.9% Complete
  • 33.2% We shouldn't celebrate it!
    33.2% Complete
  • 10.3% Anything but fireworks
    10.3% Complete
  • 0.4% Other - I'll share below
    0.4% Complete
2368 votes
20 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.

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19 hours ago

Brain Burn Alert! Today’s Riddle Will Make You Think Twice!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What is seen in the middle of March and April that can't be seen at the beginning or end of either month?

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.

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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.

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