Dr. Taku Parai from our local Iwi, Ngati Toa.
Maori Language Week, and a good moment to welcome Dr. Taku Parai from our local Iwi, Ngati Toa.
After an exchange of preliminaries between Dexter Traill and Dr. Parai in te reo Maori, Taku went on to describe his upbringing, the history of his Iwi, and what the future holds.
Taku comes from a large family centred on the Takapuwahia Marae. His father was a Maori All Black and went to great lengths to launch his sons into various trades.
Taku has had a varied career, first as an electrician and then as a historian, after enrolling at Victoria University. He was awarded a PhD in Norway, after studies involving the Sami indigenous people of Scandinavia.
Following growing unrest about Crown acquisition of Maori land, the Waitangi Tribunal was established in 1975. It was not until 2010 that Ngati Toa’s claim was settled. The settlement was seen as satisfactory by the Iwi, and it has enabled the development of a wide range of enterprises and services.
The Iwi is looking forward to major investments in housing, in collaboration with local and central government, and training and employment opportunities for young Maori.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.3% Yes
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33.2% No
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2.5% Other - I'll share below
Unlock the Answer: Today’s Riddle is Trickier Than You Think!
What English word retains the same pronunciation, even after you take away four of its five letters?
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Tawa RSA: Mighty Christmas raffle
Tawa RSA: Mighty Christmas raffle $5 per ticket. 4 major prizes, 4 minor prizes and a bonus prize. Purchase at the club or by emailing tawa.rsa@xtra.co.nz. Drawn on 13 December