Pacific Language Weeks to begin
The first of 11 Pacific Language Weeks for 2024 is next week, as we look forward to celebrating the many varied cultures and identities of the Pacific communities in Porirua.
For the first time, two new languages have been added to the calendar, as we recognise the language of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. These join Rotuma, Samoa, Kiribati, Cook Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Fiji, Niue and Tokelau.
The overarching theme of the language weeks for 2024 is sustainability, aligning with UNESCO’s long-term vision to protect indigenous languages, not just in the Pacific but worldwide. Sustainability can include the physical, but also language – which incorporates heritage and identity – with UNESCO saying at least 40 per cent of the world’s 7000 languages are in danger of being lost.
Pacific Language Week dates for 2024:
Rotuma: 12–18 May
Samoa: 26 May–1 June
Kiribati: 7–13 July
Cook Islands: 4–10 August
Tonga: 18–24 August
Tuvalu: 29 September–5 October
Fiji: 6–12 October
Niue: 13–19 October
Tokelau: 27 October–2 November
Papua New Guinea: 10–16 November
Solomon Islands: 24–30 November
Keep an eye on Council’s social media to find out about the flag-raising events and other activities.
Could the jury service process be improved?
Every year, thousands of New Zealanders are called up to serve as jurors in the High and District Courts, and it's an important way to contribute to your country.
But for some, jury service can be a huge disruption and a financial burden. Do you think changes could be made to our jury service system to address these challenges?
The riddles keep coming!
A pair which you will cut and that begins and ends with ‘S’. Do you know what it is?
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Product and food recalls
These items have been recalled, some in the last few days. If you have one of these items at home, click on the title to see the details to ensure it is not a risk to your household.
Food recalls:
Pams plant based creamy tomato pasta bake
Mrs Rogers Naturals brand gluten free batter mix
The Collective brand Suckies strawberry probiotic yoghurt
Product recalls:
Country Road two-tone demm mug
Postie Little Kids adventure pants
Fortis heavy duty weight bench
Honda outboard marine engine
Quincy Mae baby/kids nightwear
Ryobi airwave stapler/nailer
Puretec Filtration
Grabstore pruning saw / chainsaw
Full Speed Ahead crankset
We hope this message was helpful in keeping you and your family safe.