1672 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
15 hours ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 58.4% Yes, supporting people is important!
    58.4% Complete
  • 25.8% No, individuals should take responsibility
    25.8% Complete
  • 15.8% ... It is complicated
    15.8% Complete
221 votes
1 day ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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1 hour ago

ENGLISH CHAT GROUP 😁 Forrest Hill Church, 151 Forrest Hill Road, Forrest Hill

Helen from Totara Vale

Join us at our English Chat Group on Monday 16th February. The morning session is 🌻 10am-12pm 😄and the evening session is 7pm- 830pm. Come to one or both, whichever suits you. Learn some new words or practise some old ones. No skill level required. Tea ☕️ & biscuits🍪 provided. A gold coin donation 🪙appreciated to cover costs, but not necessary. Everybody welcome. Bring a friend along if you wish. Laughter & fun guaranteed! 🤣🍒 See you there! Cheers Helen