Ron Marks
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.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
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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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
Spring gardening tips
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.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
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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