1216 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
9 minutes ago

Spring gardening tips

William Sanders Retirement Village

Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.

Click read more for more information.

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1 day ago

Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.

This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
  • 84.6% Yes
    84.6% Complete
  • 13.9% No
    13.9% Complete
  • 1.5% Other - I'll share below
    1.5% Complete
736 votes
3 hours ago

What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.

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