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1023 days ago

Volunteers needed to operate Yusuf Islam's peace train when it arrives in Christchurch

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

British singer-songwriter Yusuf Islam, better known as Cat Stevens, announced last year he was donating an electric-powered peace train to Christchurch.

He came up with the idea while in Christchurch following the March 2019 mosque attacks, when he travelled across the world to perform his classic hit Peace Train at the memorial service held just days after the attacks. He wanted the train to bring smiles to future generations.

The train, a reference to his 1971 hit of the same name, has four carriages to carry children and families and operates without tracks. It is expected to arrive in New Zealand soon, and will be officially unveiled as part of this year’s commemorations of the attacks.

However, the city council needs to find people to drive it and organise the volunteers.

Council parks, programmes and partnership manager Kate Russell​ said the council planned to run the train in South Hagley Park on the second Sunday of every month – except for the winter months of June, July and August – from 10am to 4pm.

“We’re looking for a group of willing volunteers to drive the train and to act as conductors for people wanting a ride.”

It also wanted someone to co-ordinate the volunteers, organise the roster and train schedule.

“If you love trains, enjoy being around children and are willing to commit to a minimum of three two-hour shifts a year, we would love to hear from you.”

Expressions of interest can be emailed to kate.russell@ccc.govt.nz

More messages from your neighbours
7 days ago

What workplace change would you like to see most?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

This coming Monday is Labour Day in New Zealand. This public holiday marks when the eight-hour workday and 48-hour workweek became law in 1899. The idea started with Samuel Parnell, a carpenter in Wellington, who in 1840 refused to work more than eight hours a day. Since skilled workers were in short supply, his employer had to agree.

As more skilled workers arrived, employers tried to change working conditions, but Parnell and others kept pushing for better rights. In 1890, Parnell led a Labour Day parade of 1,500 people to promote the eight-hour day. He passed away shortly after, and nine years later, Labour Day became an official public holiday.

Do you feel that we have reached the ideal in working environments yet? What rights are you passionate about relating to employment? Share your thoughts!

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8 hours ago

$100 Petrol vouchers go to...

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Congratulations to this week's winners:

Sam Fuller from Red Beach

Johanna Mortis from Saint Clair

Matthew Hardy from Kelburn

Anne Fahey from Woolston

They've each won a $100 petrol voucher.

If you're a winner, get in touch here.

Not a winner this week? There's always next week!

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8 hours ago

Riddle Me This: Can You Outsmart Today’s Puzzle?

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I belong in December, but not in any other month. I am not a holiday. 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.

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