Whitby, Porirua

1791 days ago

Ron Marks

Rhondda Sweetman from Plimmerton Rotary

Last evening we had the pleasure of hearing his story, in particular because, from the age of three, he had grown up in various foster homes, and made the best of it.

He was only able to discover his history when the law changed in 1996, giving people such as Ron access to their personal files.
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Last evening we had the pleasure of hearing his story, in particular because, from the age of three, he had grown up in various foster homes, and made the best of it.

He was only able to discover his history when the law changed in 1996, giving people such as Ron access to their personal files.

His mother had abandoned him and his sister, so they were made wards of the state. He was then fostered by several families in Pahiatua and northern Wairarapa, until he was 16. His foster family experiences were mixed, but along the way he learned to ride, shoot, trap possums and catch eels. Ron’s schooling was patchy and he was often in trouble.

Nevertheless, he was accepted into the army to train as a mechanic, and this led to a career which suited him very well. He was eventually commissioned, and served the UN in Sinai and in the Sultan of Oman’s army.

He entered politics and was elected mayor of Carterton before entering parliament in 1996 for the NZ First party. He is currently Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs. At the same time, he champions and mentors foster parents.

Ron’s approach to life is simple: it (life) throws up challenges and setbacks, but the essence of a person is in how they respond. Every day starts like a blank sheet of paper, and each of us has to decide how to fill it up.

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1791 days ago

Enter your short story to win

The Team Reporter from Stuff

Are you an aspiring author? Entries for the Sunday Star Times short story awards are now open!

The winning entry will receive a $3000 prize + there’s a $500 prize for students in our secondary school competition.

Full details and the entry form are here.

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1791 days ago

Poll: Should dogs be allowed in cafes?

Neighbourly.co.nz

Dogs lolling beneath cafe tables while their owners sip lattes or glasses of pinot would have been unthinkable 30 years ago.

Now it is just the way Kiwis roll, with a raft of dog-friendly dining options available throughout the country. What do you think? Should dogs be allowed in cafes?

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Should dogs be allowed in cafes?
  • 20.9% Absolutely not - cafes are for humans
    20.9% Complete
  • 20.6% Definitely - I think it's a great idea
    20.6% Complete
  • 15.4% It depends on the cafe
    15.4% Complete
  • 43% Only in cafes with outdoor areas
    43% Complete
2645 votes
1792 days ago

Hey Wellington - want an extra $2500 a year?

Parkable

“Parkable really has been a game-changer for me.” - Jon Kowski

By renting his single parking spot on Parkable, Jon makes an extra $2,500 each year. That means less stress about finances and a better lifestyle.

How much could you earn with Parkable? Find out by clicking through!

If you … View more
“Parkable really has been a game-changer for me.” - Jon Kowski

By renting his single parking spot on Parkable, Jon makes an extra $2,500 each year. That means less stress about finances and a better lifestyle.

How much could you earn with Parkable? Find out by clicking through!

If you list your space by the 30th of November 2019, you'll go in the draw to win a $50 gift voucher.
Learn more

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1792 days ago

Christmas came early! 😍😍😍

The Team from Neighbourhood Support New Zealand

Our new website is now live and ready for visitors. Click below to see it for yourself.

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J
1793 days ago

The Botanic Garden

Jenny from Titahi Bay

As new. In perfect condition.
The history of Wellington's Botanic Garden - 1840's - 1987
First edition published by Millwood Press Ltd. 1988

Price: $50

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1796 days ago

Baby court for sale

Praveen from Whitby

Fairly new and in prestige condition. Selling baby court with mattress as seen in photos. Give me an reasonable offer.
Call 027 706 8667.
Thanks praveen

1794 days ago

It’s all the scenic route

Great Journeys of New Zealand

From mountain air to ocean breeze, you can explore the beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand in comfort with our great journeys.

Our three iconic trains, Coastal Pacific, Northern Explorer and TranzAlpine connect you to many spectacular destinations along the way.

See it all through the panoramic … View more
From mountain air to ocean breeze, you can explore the beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand in comfort with our great journeys.

Our three iconic trains, Coastal Pacific, Northern Explorer and TranzAlpine connect you to many spectacular destinations along the way.

See it all through the panoramic windows and savour summer on one of our scenic trains.
Find out more

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1794 days ago

The end of a 20 year chapter

New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty

After 20 pleasurable years, the owners of The Peppertree are now ready to move on. They want a sale and have instructed us to present all offers.

Beginning life as a renowned restaurant and currently operating very successfully as boutique accommodation, The Peppertree works very well as a … View more
After 20 pleasurable years, the owners of The Peppertree are now ready to move on. They want a sale and have instructed us to present all offers.

Beginning life as a renowned restaurant and currently operating very successfully as boutique accommodation, The Peppertree works very well as a function centre and would also make a superb cellar door. Located with State Highway frontage close to Blenheim and situated on the soon to open Picton to Kaikoura cycleway, it is ideally positioned to cash in on Marlborough’s growing tourism industry.

Each of the five beautifully appointed suites has been subtly themed, providing individual charm as well as comfort. The heart of the home is a spacious, recently renovated farmhouse kitchen enjoying garden and orchard views. A large wood burner with wetback and solar heats the water for a series of radiators around the house, ensuring warmth year-round.

Encompassing four hectares and featuring organically managed vineyard and gardens, fruit trees, berry patches, olives and grazing for sheep, cattle, and horses, The Peppertree is close to being self-sufficient. The extra land also offers an opportunity for future expansion and development.

The rateable value for land and improvements is $1,520,000.
All offers requested to be received by 4 pm Wednesday 27 November 2019.

For more information or an appointment to view, please contact Michal or Tim.
Find out more

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1796 days ago

From trash to flash

The Team from Resene ColorShop Petone

Transform an old wooden drawer into a stylish shelf and paint it your favourite Resene colour.

Make the most of this weekend with this easy step by step project idea from Resene.

Find out how to create this quick and easy project yourself.

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1796 days ago

Trick or treating: Love it or hate it

Mikaela Wilkes Reporter from Homed

Hey neighbours,
Halloween is fast approaching. Some Kiwis think it's great fun and go all out with decorations and lollies. Others just want to shut their doors and be left alone, leave it to the Americans.

Do you celebrate Halloween at your house? Why or why not?
And If you don't like… View more
Hey neighbours,
Halloween is fast approaching. Some Kiwis think it's great fun and go all out with decorations and lollies. Others just want to shut their doors and be left alone, leave it to the Americans.

Do you celebrate Halloween at your house? Why or why not?
And If you don't like trick or treating, how do you make it clear your house is a no-go zone?

We're keen to talk to some people who feel strongly about Halloween one way or the other. If you have thoughts to share, please email homed@stuff.co.nz and we'll be in touch.

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