KŌANGA // SPRING 2014 ISSUE 3
EDITOR'S MIHI // Donna-Lee Biddle
As the year winds down, the stress of the student life takes-over. It’s 10.50pm and you’ve just started your 1500-word essay for Lusty that’s due tomorrow morning (really shouldn’t be watching so many cat videos). You’re dogging R-block because you missed Mark’s class and you know he ain’t gon’ be happy. And you just spent your last $3.50 on a sausage roll cos you hungry and now you have to walk home. The struggle. It might not seem like it but there is so much to be proud of this year. You’ve made it three-quarters of the way. Eight weeks left and it’s finally over; you can lax out on the couch for another three-months or if you’re about to graduate, sorry to say, but you have to get your pohara-self a job. Some pretty remarkable milestones have been celebrated in Kirikiriroa this year. It’s been 150 years since the arrival of Captain Hamilton. King Tuheitia, former Prime Minister Jim Bolger and community and business leaders were among those who gathered outside council chambers last month to signify the event. Our kaumātua, Tame Pokaia, addressed the crowd of a couple hundred, acknowledging the tangata whenua, Ngati Wairere and Tainui, and to say the history of this area is seven-hundred years old. Wintec also has a birthday, 90 years since its doors first opened to teach. The third-year journalism students marked the occasion by writing features about the characters “who have given life to Wintec” throughout its journey. Some include former chair of the Wintec council Gordon Chesterman, celebrity chef Josh Emmet, Wintec kaumātua Tame Pokaia, former programme co-ordinator of Te Whiuwhiu o te Hau Darrin Haimona and te reo tutor Okeroa Waiatai.
The 8 th Koroneihana was celebrated in Ngaruawahia with thousands travelling from around Aotaroa and beyond to join the week-long festivities. Wintec’s Rotokauri campus opened its new trade block this month and we celebrated Adult Leaner Week at Wintec which saw six adult learners from four categories take home $1000 awards. We have plenty to be grateful for. As an ending note, I would like to thank all who have helped make Te Kete Korero a reality and even though it’s in its beginning stages, I hope this voice will become louder and stronger. I unfortunately will be one of those students who will have to get my pohara-self a job. I took on this publication not knowing how challenging it would be when no-one hands in stories on deadline and you have to write them yourself at two in the morning. Or how grumpy the graphic designer gets when he has to chase me up because I’m stuck with these extra stories. And the cliché’s begin. It’s actually very rewarding seeing your work published, hoping you made a difference somewhere and that this publication brought to light issues that have a direct effect on our Māori and Pasifika audience.
"Nāku te rourou, nāu te rourou ka ora ai te iwi
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
CONTENTS 2-3 Editor's Mihi HĀPORI // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
Kahurangi Waititi
6-7 Intermediate Schools Kapa Haka given a chance to shine
Editor
8-9 Building a future for our tamariki
Managing Editor
Donna-Lee Biddle
Writers Jason Renes Donna-Lee Biddle Kahurangi Waititi Naomi Mai Anaru Williams Paula Simeon Kate Wynyard Jamie Huia Rolleston Tania Oxenham Sam Jackson Davinia Vaughn
Photography Jason Renes Donna-Lee Biddle Kahurangi Waititi Naomi Mai Te Tari o te Kiingitanga Shem Murray Kate Wynyard Bruce Mercer
Graphic Design Jade Ormsby
Printer CMYK
Front and back cover Artwork Te Marunui Hotene
Page 30 Artwork Theresa Reihana
Ngā kaitautoko o Te Kete Kōrero: Māori Achievement Media Arts
10 Battalion award boost for Waikato students 11 Koroneihana 2014
KŌWHIRINGA PŌTI
12 - 13 Voting and you 14 Campus Whakaaro 15 Getting clued up
TE KURATINI O WAIKATO
16 - 17 Moana Boys hold wananga about the history of Māori Tā moko 18 - 19 Matariki at Wintec 20 - 21 Broadening our horizons in Hawaii 22 Student profile // Aaron Brears 23 Staff profile // Marlana Maru 24 Te Kete Kōnae 25 Hei Oranga Mou 26 - 27 Maisey Rika - He hokinga mahara 28 Tautoko is an appointment away 29 Pacific languages weeks 30 - 31 Here to stay // Mental heatlh awareness
WE WANT YOU // Donna-Lee Biddle
Why have something and not use it. Aren’t we a waste not, want not culture? Too much time has been spent fighting for what we don’t have, that we have forgotten about what we do have. A vote. Māori and Pasifika people are well known for voicing their opinions, and that’s more so true for Te Arawa women (like me). We have no problem fighting for our whenua, our awa and our reo, so why not for our tamariki, for our whanau, for our futures? Three out of five young New Zealanders enrolled to vote in the last election did not vote. We are lucky enough to live in a country that allows a democracy, a dream for many non-Western countries, yet we did not vote. And what is a democracy if only half of us voted, is it really a fair representation? If you were one of those who did not vote, you now have a chance to make a difference and vote in this year’s crucial elections. Our roopu here at Te Kete Korero have compiled a how-to guide to voting, especially for you first-timers, statistics around important policies, voting resources and comments from students here at Wintec to see how students really feel about the big ‘V’. You can vote anytime from now up until September 20th at booths around the Waikato, just go to www.listenup.ivote.org.nz, to find the closest booth to you. It takes literally five minutes. And if you haven’t enrolled, you still have time, text 3676 for an information pack. We all have one thing in common and that is our right to vote. September 20 th is the day where we are all equal. So get out there and make a difference.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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The graceful poi of the girls from Peachgrove Intermediate
The young warriors of Matamata Intermediate deliver a fierce haka.
TE KETE KORERO // KĹ?anga - Spring 2014
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HĀPORI // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
INTERMEDIATE SCHOOLS KAPA HAKA GIVEN A CHANCE TO SHINE // Jason Renes
The second annual Intermediate Kapa Haka Festival helps build the confidence of first-time performers and allows them to stand tall in their culture.
Fledgling kapa haka groups experienced the thrill of performing before a crowd of hundreds yesterday at the Inter-Intermediate Kapa Haka Festival. For many of those who shone onstage it was the first time they had performed competitively outside of their own school communities. Hosted by Peachgrove Intermediate the festival was set up last year in an attempt to raise the standard of intermediate kapa haka. While events like the New Zealand Aims Games help intermediate school sports to thrive, there are not many similar occassions for kapa haka groups to come together and perform. Helen Te Kiri, Deputy Principal of Peachgrove Intermediate, said the festival provided that sense of occasion for the kids, as well as a chance for them to
Sharon Karauna, one of the festival judges, said her purpose was to encourage the young performers to strive for excellence, but to also keep having fun at the same time. “First points come for turning up and having fun. You can tell when they’ve made a mistake because their lips turn or their eyes roll. “But then they smile along with it too.” Kapa haka was not the only cultural experience for those who packed to Peachgrove Intermediate. The crowd was also entertained by Indian and Pasifika dance groups. Te Kiri said the next step was to take an approach similar to the kapa haka festival in order to widen the base for all cultural performance, such as Indian and Pasifika.
They recognise they are valued for what they bring [to their culture] and how they bring their culture into their lifestyle. stand tall in their culture. She said this was integral to foster confidence in the children so they may continue to express themselves through Maori performing arts. “It is really important for their self-confidence, for their ability to stand on the stage and perform.” They recognise they are valued for what they bring [to their culture] and how they bring their culture into their lifestyle. “That’s the kaupapa behind it – to give that opportunity to perform and show their talents, to watch and enjoy one another, learn from one another and encourage.”
“Again, there’s no real event for them apart from their own church groups or their own cultural community hub. “At secondary level there is. But there’s nothing at our level to say ‘Hey, we’re learning, we want to have a go at peforming too.’” Te Awamutu Intermediate won the competition in the end. Peachgrove Intermediate received the “gold” skill level standard while the “silver” standard went to Hamilton Junior High School. The “bronze” standard was reached by both Matamata and Melville Intermediates.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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HĀPORI // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
BUILDING OUR TAMARIKI A FUTURE // Naomi Mai
Wintec’s Trade School students made miniature houses for our tamariki at Whakawātea Kohanga Reo
Two play houses were gifted to Whakawātea Kohanga Reo in Collins Road thanks to the dedication and hard work of Wintec Māori and Pasifika trade students. The play houses were a scaled-down version of a full-size house which students used to build in previous years. The play houses took about eight weeks and fifteen students to complete. Kazlo Evans, Project Manager for Maori and Pasifika Trade Training at Wintec, said that building the play houses was about “the students getting the benefit of the learning” and that the outcome (the play houses) were donated to a local organisation. The students were part of the first in-take of a government initiative aimed at getting more Maori and Pasifika students into trades and apprenticeships. Previously a full year programme, the shortened programme has been condensed to 17 and 26 weeks with increased teaching hours meaning that students are in class longer.
For more information about this programme check out this link: http://www.wintec.ac.nz/mptt
Top // Placing the Whare Takaro bow and all. Middle // Carrying the Whare onto the site. Bottom // Nga tamariki me nga Kaiako o Te Kohanga Reo o Whakawatea.
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
Ekalesia faapotopotoga kerisiano Samoan play group presentation // Davinia Vaughn
One of the course requirements is the culture component which the Pasifika group have taken on board with great passion. Each morning they have waiata and karakia in the newly established G block at Rotokauri campus. Because of the large shed, the acoustics are amazing and staff have commented on the beautiful music coming from the shed and this has set the tone for the day. Our Pasifika students have redesigned the cubby houses and wanted to incorporate a Pasifika flavour and came up with the fale design concept. Three fale’s were built by all students and each student had the opportunity to be a part of the build. The class also learnt a new haka with each island represented, from Samoa, Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga and Māori. The Students took ownership of the haka and practiced the new waiata and haka every morning and performed for the grateful tamariki who were eager to get into the fale’s and play.
Top // Looking through the three Fale Middle // Some of the students giving up the smiles for their efforts. Bottom // Students carrying one of the Fale onto one of the preschools.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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HĀPORI // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
Battalion award boost for waikato students // Donna-Lee Biddle
Waikato University students have received a prestigious Māori scholarship for their services to te reo Māori and its revitalisation
Jamie Rolleston and Kristin Ross receive their scholarships at parliament.
Three Waikato University students have been awarded the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarship Award. Education Minister Hekia Parata, who chairs the Ngarimu VC and 28th Māori Battalion Memorial Scholarship Fund Board, said they look for people who embody what the Battalion is about. Jamie Rolleston and Kristin Ross received their scholarships at parliament. “To honour the spirit and sacrifice of the Battalion soldiers we must ensure their legacy lives on in future generations, especially among tomorrow’s leaders,” said Parata. Masters students Jamie Rolleston, 26, and Kristin, 25, were awarded $15,000 and Aperahama Hurihanganui, 21, who is studying a conjoint law and tikanga Māori degree, won $10,000 for the duration of his undergraduate study. The Ngarimu scholarships are designed to support Maori education, achievement and success.
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
Rolleston is a second-language learner of te reo, so it seems fitting her thesis is about the value of te reo Maori and the benefits for adult learners. She was intimidated by the application process for the scholarship but was encouraged by her partner Kiharoa Milroy, who received the award for his undergraduate study last year. “I’d always seen it advertised at uni so I applied for it [the scholarship] and forgot all about it. I never thought I’d get it.” As part of her research, Rolleston teaches te reo one night a week in Rotorua and is grateful to be able to immerse herself in something she loves. “It’s helpful not having to stress. It’s a full-time job and this definitely enabled me to focus on my thesis, it’s great. “It wasn’t a smooth ride. I’ve had many failures but just as many successes.” Rolleston is half-way through her thesis research and plans to finish in March next year. She hopes her master’s degree will enable her to one-day work with her iwi, Ngati Whakaue. “I want to be teaching te reo in my community and creating resources for Māori. But ultimately, I want to work with my iwi,” said Rolleston. “There is such a need out there. There is a need for teaching and a need for resources.” The awards ceremony was attended by more than 100 former Ngarimu scholarship recipients. Parata said entries were of a high calibre and it made it difficult to select only a few. “I want to congratulate the successful scholars who will not only receive significant financial assistance with their studies, but will also carry the mana of being a scholarship holder for life.” Applications for the Ngarimu VC & 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarships are now open and close on 26 September 2014.
K O R O N E I H A N A
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KŌWHIRINGA PŌTI // 2014 ELECTON SPECIAL
VOTING AND YOU // Jamie Huia Rolleston
Our political system is some complicated stuff. Who really understands it? I’m just gonna take that blank look on your face as a “No”. Let’s fix that.
A few key words to get out of the way first:
Party /’pah tee/ noun A group made up of people with the same goals.
MP /’emm pee/ noun MP stands for “Member of Parliament”. So if someone is an MP, they are a member of this club called Parliament and inside that club there is a chair that belongs to them. There are 121 MPs all together, and 121 chairs.
Parliament /’par lah mint/ noun Parliament is the building where all the MPs go to hang out. Like a clubhouse. In fact, if you have ever seen them arguing on TV, most likely they are doing that at Parliament.
Government /’guv in ment/ noun The group of people with the authority to govern a country or state; a particular ministry in office.
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
You see, Parliament is made up of a whole lot of chairs. Literally, chairs. They like to call them ‘seats’. Same, same. All the fighting and campaigning is about these chairs, because the more chairs a party has, the more power it has inside Parliament. The Party with the most chairs, becomes the Government, meaning that they have the power to make important decisions about EVERYTHING. (By everything, I mean- EVERYTHING). If you are not in the party which is the Government, you are in the opposition- which means you have less power. Right at this moment, our Government is made up of the National Party, Act Party, United Future Party and the Māori Party. The opposition is the Labour party, the Green Party, the Mana Party & the New Zealand First party. So, the big question is- HOW does a party get all these chairs in Parliament which makes them Government? Answer: Your votes. That’s right, you have more than one vote. You have TWO. 1 Person vote 1 Party vote Let’s first of all look at the ‘Person Vote’. This is also known as your ‘Electorate vote’. “What’s an electorate?” I hear you ask. An electorate is a physical space. For example, Hamilton East, Tauranga, Taupō, Hauraki Waikato are all electorates. Each electorate is made up of roughly 60,000 people. No electorate is worth more than any other, all electorates are equal. There are 71 electorates in total. Each of these electorates are represented in Parliament with one chair. When you cast your Person vote (electorate vote) you are voting for the person you want to sit in that chair in Parliament as a voice for your community or rohe, and also as a representative of their party. There will currently be a few people campaigning for your vote to be your local MP, meaning that they want your ‘Person vote’. This is pretty straightforward, whichever one of those people get the most votes on voting day wins the seat in Parliament. Boom. No matter what else happens, they will have a chair. Even if that person only wins by one tiny vote- that chair belongs to them, and to their party. So if we add up all those electorate chairs, that equals 71 out of 121 chairs in Parliament. What about the other 50 chairs??? Here is where your ‘Party vote’ comes in. This is a vote for the party that you like. You can vote for any party, it doesnt have to be the same party that your electorate vote went to- that is called a ‘split vote’. There are 50 chairs that are put aside and on voting day, these chairs are divided up amongst all the parties, depending on how many Party votes they got. For
example, last election the Green Party got 14% of the vote and they ended up with 14 out of 50 party chairs. Here is where it get’s complicated. In order to get some of these party chairs, a party must get over 5% of all the party votes in NZ. If a party gets less than 5%, they’re out. They get nada. Unless that party has already won an electorate seat. If a party member has won an electorate seat, then that member can pull in some mates from their party. This is called coat-tailing.
Ok, so let’s do the math. We will look at the results of the 2011 election as an example of how things work out. Remember there are 121 chairs in total- 71 electorate chairs and 50 party chairs.
Seats in Parliament Party
Electorate Chairs won
Party Chairs won
Total Chairs won
National
42
17
59
Labour
22
12
34
Greens
0
14
14
NZ First
0
8
8
Māori Party
3
0
3
United Future
1
0
1
Act
1
0
1
Mana
1
0
1
Conservative
0
0
0
So looking at those figures, obviously the National Party won the most chairs. BUT in order to have a government, you must have a majority, in this case that means 61 out of 121 chairs. Since National had 59, they needed to find some friends who could join together with them to make a Government. They made friends with the Act Party, the United Future Party, and the Māori Party. Which took them up to 64 chairs. Boom. Majority rule Government. So these parties all came together and signed a contract that said they would support the main vote in parliamentwhich is ‘The Budget’. On top of this, whenever a vote is held in Parliament to make a decision about an important issue affecting the country, the parties which make up the Government almost always vote together, and so they will almost always have it their way because they have the most seats. More seats=more votes. More votes=more power. What kind of decisions do they make? Everything. If you think about one thing that you love most in the world, I can guarantee you- that thing will be affected by the decisions made in Parliament. Whether that thing is the beach, music, drinking, smoking weed, shopping, fishing, playing rugby, watching Game of Thrones on the internet, hunting, or simply being with your whānau- it is all affected by what happens in Parliament.
What will happen if I don’t vote? Maybe nothing will change- depending on who you are, that could be a great thing or a disasterous thing. Maybe everything will change- once again, that may be a good or bad thing depending on who you are. But one thing is for sure- if you don’t vote, you cant complain about ANYTHING for the next three years, because you had a chance to have your say and you didn’t.
So if you don’t vote and your favourite nightclub gets shut down... shh. If you don’t vote and your Dad loses his job... shh. If you don’t vote and you can’t get student loans or allowances all of a sudden.....shh. If you don’t vote and My Kitchen Rules gets taken off air....shh. If you don’t vote and the All Blacks lose....shh. If you don’t vote and someone robs your house.... shh. If you don’t vote and your Nan gets sick...shh. If you don’t vote and then struggle to get a job after tech...shh. No complaining from you my friend. You had your chance, and you did nothing. When I say EVERYTHING is affected by what happens in Parliament, I mean EVERYTHING.
.
So vote. 1 person vote, 1 party vote. September 20. Otherwise Shh.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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KŌWHIRINGA PŌTI // 2014 ELECTON SPECIAL
CAMPUS WHAKAARO // Donna-Lee Biddle
In the last election in 2011, 42 per cent of 18-24 year-olds did not vote - compared with just 5 per cent of those over 65. We hit the Wintec city campus to see what Māori and Pasifika students had to say about voting.
Audrey Ellis, Te Arawa me Ngāi Tūhoe, Journalism student, 22, (Second election) How does this election compared to the last one you voted in? This time around I’m more informed than last elections, more mature and I have a greater interest. It’s also interesting that this time I’m discussing it with my friends and family.
Brooke Bath, Ngāti Maniapoto, Journalism student, 21, (Second election) Why aren’t youth interested in voting? Youth don’t have an interest because it’s politics and it’s tricky. This year though, Dirty Politics (book by Nicky Hager about National Party tactics) has made it popular to vote.
Caughey Teisi, Ngāpuhi, 19, Photography student, (First time voter) How do you feel about voting? I’ve never really thought about it. At home Mum doesn’t talk about it, no-one talks about it.
Don Rowe, Ngāi Tahu, 20, Journalism student, (First time voter) Do you think it’s important to vote? Yes, it’s important because a democracy only works when everyone votes. There are maniacs, unless we vote, they will get into power.
Left to right: Ronnie matatia, Cook Islands me Ngāti Maniapoto, 42, Media Design student. Jack Cooper, Ngāti Porou, Media Design Student, 47. Do you think it’s important to vote? Jack: Yes, you need to back your ideologies up. Ronnie: You can’t complain if you don’t vote.
GETTING CLUED UP // Kahurangi Waititi
If you’re unsure how to vote, who to vote for and where to vote, check out our voting resources to help you make an informed decision.
The Elections Website: This is a good start. The elections website is where you go to enrol, check that your details are all up to date and get some good info around what this voting thing is all about. There is a lot of information on this website including election statistics, how the New Zealand voting system works and a lot of detail around anything you might need to know about how to actually vote. Like I said the site has a lot of info so kia kaha have a look through and if you use this for anything use it to enrol. http://www.elections.org.nz The Virgin Voter Collective: This movement is gunning to reverse the fact that 60% of 18-24 year olds didn’t turn up to vote at the last election. It is a young vibrant site that uses multimedia and young NZ stars to pass on their message. http://virginvotercollective.co.nz/ Vote Compass: The Vote Compass is a tool to help gauge how your values or beliefs tee up with party policies. It asks you a number of questions about how you feel about different aspects of New Zealand society. From those answers you are given a list of parties that align the most with your thinking and beliefs. The Vote Compass is easy to use and you can find it on the One News website. It is a good way to start feeling out where your vote might go and what parties are in your zone. http://tvnz.co.nz/votecompass On the Fence: This is also a tool to help scope out the parties that might align with your views. The website is fun and interactive, a little more relaxed than the Vote Compass and has a lot of sheep facts (don’t think they are actual facts though). At the end of the questioning it gives you an idea about the parties you might want to vote for. The website also has an overview of the parties and has links to more party info if you need it. http://www.onthefence.co.nz/results Party Policy Overviews: The New Zealand Herald has just released an interactive resource that offers a summary of all the parties major policies. The site is easy to use and the summaries are just that, a snap shot of what their main focuses are going to be. So it is a very easy read. For more in-depth understanding on any of those policies visit the various party websites. Knowledge is power! http://www.nzherald.co.nz/election-2014/news/article.cfm?c_ id=1503581&objectid=11318886&ref=NZH_FBpage Ask Away: Basically, this allows you to ask the politicians questions. You post a question and then people get to vote for the question they want answered for the day. If you get the most votes the politicians will answer your question. https://nzelection.askaway.org.nz/ Left or Right: Want to know what the left or right side mean? Have a look at this piece of ingenious deciphering. Understanding what is what in the political world is pretty tricky. Luckily we have people like Jamie Rolleston simplifying the jargon for us. Watch this short clip and get an idea about what it means to be a political lefty or righty and what parties fit where and why. https://www.facebook.com/video.php? v=10202227763311357&set=vb.1108201249&type=2&theater
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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TE KURATINI O WAIKATO // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
MOANA BOYS HOLD WANANGA ABOUT THE HISTORY OF MAORI TA MOKO // Donna-Lee Biddle
First-timer Matiu Pouri-Lane gets his tamoko done by Stu McDonald.
Seven boys are turning scripts of whakapapa into works of art at Wintec’s SPARK week. Tauranga-based moko artists, Stu McDonald, Rikirau Luttenberger, Karam Hood, Corey Kuka, Trident Whaiapu, Mitchell Patterson and Hepara Teepa held a wananga at Te Kōpu Mānia, to talk about the history of moko before they inked waiting tattoo fiends. Moko Moana’s Stu McDonald talked about his introduction to the art when he was a teenager and how he felt when he drew his first piece. “My uncles were in jail in the 80’s and they used
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
Hepara Teepa working on Miria Foe’s foot piece.
Wintec’s Spark week attracted artists from all calibres; designers, journalists, musicians and for the first time, moko (tattoo) artists. Find out how a humble crew from Tauranga have turned their backstreet tattoo antics into a renowned business.
Equipment used for Tā Moko.
to make their own machines from a spoon, a hose reel and a tape recorder, said McDonald. “I’ve always loved to draw, but that’s where my passion for doing moko comes from, homemade [moko] machines.” The 35-year-old has a Tā Moko on his face and it wasn’t a decision he made lightly. “I thought about it for years before I had it done and it was still a bit scary. When I got the last moko done (across his forehead) I questioned what I had done. “I sat in my room for days; I was pouri (sad/mourning) and didn’t know what to do but my grandmother pulled me out of it. I have days where people stare or I get kicked out of an establishment, sometimes I fight back but sometimes I can’t be bothered.” McDonald studied linguistics and travelled the world, spending time in Tokyo and educating himself about his craft. “When I first started out, I didn’t care who I
“I’ve always loved to draw, but that’s where my passion for doing moko comes from, homemade [moko] machines.”
tattooed, any skin would do. It wasn’t until I started questioning the kaupapa behind the moko and figuring out what it really meant, that I had a true understanding of my art, said McDonald.” McDonald said the media has influenced the surge in people getting moko and not understanding the meaning behind it. “It’s all over tv, so young one’s think it’s cool to have. I urge people, especially the young ones to understand what they’re tattooing on themselves. I’ve even seen a fulla with a female moko, said Mc Donald. “It’s a forever thing so think about it; it’s precious and its tapu (sacred).”
Left // Tā Moko wananga. Right // Stu McDonald working on Matiu Pouri-Lane’s arm.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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MATARIKI AT WINTEC // Anaru Williams
I te Rāmere te 18th o Hōngoingoi i tū tētahi konowhete ki te Atrium i Te Kuratini o Waikato hei whakanui i ngā wāhine whakahirahira e whitu o Tainui ; ‘He Wāhine - He Māramatanga’.
Nā Amy Maynard me tōna hoa kaiwhakatangi piana a Aaron Gott te reo waiata i pōwhiritia ki te whānau. Tokomaha i tae atu me ā rātou kākahu papai. He pō whakahōnore i ngā tohunga waiata, i ngā tohunga ki ngā mahi ā rēhia kei waenga i te hapori. I whakarauika mai ngā whānau ki te tautoko i ngā tohu whakanui i ā tātou whaea tūpuna, ko ngā rūruhi nō Tainui. Ko ngā kaiwhiwhi o te pō ko Dame Te Puea Herangi (1883-1952), Herarangimakanga Haunui, Okeroa Waitai, Kiritoka Ete Tomairangi Adrianne Gail Paki, Te Rita Bernadette Papesch, Te Waipounamu Teinakore me Kirimaaku Kihi Ko ngā kaiwhakangāhau hei kīnaki te kaupapa o te pō ko te kapa haka o ‘Te Pou O Mangataawhiri’, Ko te roopu pūoro o ngā tauira o Wintec a ‘Soulfej’ me ‘Whirimako Black’. Katahi ko tērā te pō mīharo! He pō whakawhānaunga, he pō pukukata, he pō whakakotahi ai tātou ki a tātou anō. Tīhei Mauriora! On Friday the 18 th July, Wintec hosted a Matariki celebration; He Wahine - He Maramatanga. As whanau entered the glass doors of the atrium they were greeted by staff and the background music of the piano played by Aaron and the voice of Amy as she sung. With performances from Te Pou o Mangatawhiri, the soulful Whirimako Black and Soulfej the ambience was set for an enjoyable evening. Seven outstanding women of Tainui who are luminaries of waiata and kapa haka in our community were honoured with the multitude of whanau there to tautoko recipients as they receive their reward. Suit and ties, flash dresses, great laughs and time for everyone to catch up on a positive note was one of awesome aspects of the night and as the night progressed and the meal came out, it was time to fill the bellies. After dinner came another round of recipients and then to finish the night off on the dance floor came the sound of Soulfej which consisted of Wintec Music students.
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TE KETE KORERO // Kōanga - Spring 2014
TE KURATINI O WAIKATO // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
BROADENING OUR HORIZONS IN HAWAII // Kahurangi Waititi
Media Arts Kaiāwhina, Kahurangi Waititi gives a first person account of her trip to the World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Education (WiPCE).
Hawaii – a distant dream, a place where the Love Boat drifted into and unleashed it’s happy loved up cargo onto the sunny beaches, thirst quenched by colourful cocktails with creative enticing names and skin tanned by perpetual rays of sun.
Well the opportunity to go to Hawaii to attend and present at The World Indigenous Peoples Conference in Education came upon eight unsuspecting Wintec staff. While planning and preparation went really fast it wasn’t until we touched down on Honalulu soil that we actually believed it was happening.
Above top // Hera & Kahu enjoying the beach. Bottom // Testing out the waka skills.
Our plane was packed with Māori delegates from all over New Zealand. It was a colourful plane ride with people reconnecting and some meeting new friends. The Aotearoa delegates numbered 500, not to be out done by our Canadian First Nation brothers and sisters who numbered over 600.
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The conference itself was epic. It started with a Hawaiian equivalent of a pōwhiri on the beach. Waka paddled in with delegates from all over the world and were welcomed with karanga, waiata and dance. It was beautiful. The crowd then moved into the Shell arena where more ceremonial exchanged happened and the Hawaiian people brought out one of their prized jewels for us to experience. Kekuhi Keali’ikanakaole’ohaililani and Dr. Taupōuri Tangarō from the island of Hilo, brought their young family on stage to deliver a provoking Hula demonstration. This was the real deal, no Love Boat cheesiness here. Their storytelling abilities traversed culture and language. It was an emotional glimpse into Hawaiian history.
The keynote speakers were also really interesting. Instead of having individuals speak, the keynotes were whānau groups. This concept embraced the conference motto “Our narratives endure”.
Above// The welcoming. Right // Kahu and her new friend. Bottom // Crowd watching performances.
I also attended three New Zealand presentations during the conference. They were themselves very powerful. Articulate and responsive to our various needs as Māori. Attending just these presentations made me realise that collectively we should be sharing each other’s research with each other. There probably should be a conference here in Aotearoa where we can do this because the value would be immense. While there were many highlights for me what was special about the trip was being able to experience it with seven intelligent, hard-working, humorous mana wahine. The lot of us had strong opinions, great appetites for knowledge and food, and a whole lot of very funny stories (well we thought they were funny anyway).
The presentation section of the conference was overwhelming, there was so much to choose from and I wanted to go to as many as I could. Over 40 presentations ran every hour so it was pretty much running across the campus to the next one before it filled up. The kōrero from the different presenters was fascinating. The first presentation I went to was by a Siksika family (First Nations Canadians). They talked about their intergenerational knowledge exchange and had three generations of their whanau there to speak. Powerful stuff.
While Hawaii is defiantly no Love Boat rerun, the tangata whenua (people of the land) know how to host people. They are warm, humble and will give without thinking twice about it. They showed us indeed why they are the tuakana (elder sibling) and we are the teina (younger sibling). Returning to the land our ancestors voyaged from so many years ago was a humbling experience and so Hawaii there ends our love affair… for now, until next time. E te whenua tawhitoa a ō mātou tipuna, kāore he kupu ki te whakahua i tāu manaakitanga kua ūtaina ki runga i a mātou, aa tona wā ka tutaki ano.
Some other presentation highlights for me was attending a Blackfoot filmmakers presentation, Dorothy Christian, who had worked with Alanis Obomsawin one of my all-time favourite indigenous filmmakers who happens to be an 85 years old First Nations Canadian and has 5 projects running at the moment. What a women. Dorothy also referenced Merata Mita and Barry Barclay, two New Zealand heavyweight filmmakers. It made me realised how their work has impacted and influenced indigenous people all over the world.
Above // Dancers performing the Hula. Left // Renee, Kahu & Rose chilling under the umbrellas.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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TE KURATINI O WAIKATO // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
// Jason Renes
With the self awareness gained through life experience, Wintec student Aaron Brear strides confidently towards a degree in social work
“If had not done the certificate I don’t think I would have been confident in the degree. In a way it was a lot harder than the first year [of the degree]. Because we have eight papers this year and in the certificate last year we had 16 papers. So it really put the pressure on and cut the men from the boys. Having borne himself through the hard yards of the certificate, Brear tackled his first year in After ten years of working in retail, Aaron Brear sat the bachelor degree programme with a keener down and thought about what he really wanted awareness not only of social work, but of himself. to do with his life. He had two children and did “The big thing I’ve learnt is reflection. Before I say not want to continue in a job he felt was going something, before I do something, what will the nowhere. He reflected upon his past, going as far outcome be? How are people going to receive back as high school to gain a clue as to which that? How are you going to deal with those who direction he ought to head. don’t agree with you? Brear, from Ngati Rangitihi and Ngati Awa, “Reflecting is the fundamental tool because if you remembered some of his teachers at high school are reflecting on why something has or hasn’t who had encouraged and opened up lines of worked that makes your practice, your theory, how communication with him. This meant a lot to a you deal with things, stronger each time.” young Maori male who came from a troubled and And while he still has two years of study ahead dysfunctional home. of him, Brear also has a solid vision for himself “I needed an outlet, someone to talk to. And my for when he is qualified - mentoring youth and teachers at the time advocating for their picked that up. Reflecting needs. Especially those on the conversations I who are at risk. In his “I can see why kids gravitate to gangs, had with those teachers, eyes, these young people I didn’t know it back then, youth gangs. If you don’t get any love from lack love and a sense of but they were prodding home you’ve got to get it somewhere, right? community. me [about] what was “I can see why kids Gangs are families too.” going on. gravitate to gangs, youth “It was just like a social gangs. If you don’t get work setting.” any love from home This experience from the past prompted Brear to you’ve got to get it somewhere, right? Gangs are carve a path for himself in social work. And he is families too.” doing just that in his first year of Wintecs Bachelor However, the approach Brear wants to take was of Applied Social Science (Social Work). best summed up when he described a conversation However before the degree, Brear enrolled in a he had with a friend. foundation course. The Certificate of Social Service “She said to me ‘You know, when you finish your (Level 4) prepared him for the rigours of Bachelor degree you should really get into corrections and level study. catch the young people in corrections.’” “It was a good stepping stone, rather than just “My response to that was ‘I want to be a youth jumping straight into the degree - into the deep end. mentor and I want to stop that door from opening Screwing it all up and going back to square one. before they walk through it.’”
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Aaron Brear.
CARVING A PATH TO SOCIAL WORK
TE KURATINI O WAIKATO // NGĀ RAURAU KŌRERO
Studying social work: a journey of transformation // Jason Renes
Marlana Maru knows what it takes to be a social worker and she wants to pass that knowledge onto Wintec students.
Aaron Brear.
Just before she began her study for a degree in social work, Marlana Maru came across a news story about a child that had been killed because of abuse. She cut the clipping from the paper and held onto it. She had no intention at the time of working in the field of child protection, but the story had lit a fire in her. “I wanted to figure out how I could help avoid those situations or contribute to the prevention of child abuse. So even though I hadn’t intentionally set out to go into the field of child protection, that’s where I ended up.” Maru is now a tutor at Wintec and she wants to ignite the same fire in the bellies of her social work students Hailing from Whakatohea, Ngati Maniapoto and Ngati Awa, Maru began teaching at Wintec in early July. Before then she had worked for over a decade to advance the well being of whanau and tamariki. “That’s my primary goal, in whatever I do. Whether it’s in the classroom, or a supervision setting, or in a social work setting. To enhance the well being of whanau, tangata whenua, tamariki and mokopuna - that’s my main motivator.” As a tutor Maru wants to help her students to identify their motivators. However, she acknowledges this can be a sizable challenge, for it requires them to come to terms with themselves. “Any social work degree is a journey of transformation. You really look into yourself. You have to know yourself really well. Your own values, your beliefs. Why you do what you do, where that has come from. You need to learn that first, before you can support others.”
However, to know oneself and one’s values is only a part of the process. The rest comes from reflection, which can help give rise to empathy and a better way to connect with whanau without imposing those values upon them. For Maru, an effective social worker is one who can meet this balance. “Strong support is [also] a must. Because it is more than a job, it becomes a way of life. “The values that you have in social work - of wanting to help and be involved - you don’t just clock out of that. And the down side is that you might overextend yourself and take time away from your babies and the home you have to look after. “So having people around you to help you, keep you on track and keep you honest is really important.”
Marlana Maru.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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TE KETE KŌNAE
TE KETE KONAE TKK teams members from left // Save Kama, Maria Ranga, Paula Simeon, Kate Wynyard, Renee Evans, Tania Oxenham, Shem Murray & Kahurangi Waititi.
Te Kete Kōnae practices and promotes manaakitanga and whanaungatanga to all students here at Wintec. We aim to empower tauira Māori and Pasifika to get the best out of their time here. Our students can: find updates on student specific hui and community events; seek help and advice in confidence; have study groups with peers and tutors; take a break between classes; and feel at home and comfortable.
Academic Learning Services
We deliver these supports to students using Māori and Pasifika frameworks, and are available between 8.30am and 4.00pm daily. Nau mai, Bula, Susu mai, Talitali fiefia! We look forward to seeing you in Te Kete Kōnae soon!
Scholarships and grant information
Support for people with disabilities
Help in accessing financial assistance, health
Hi, Student disability services is here to ensure that students with disabilities are provided the opportunity to participate in their chosen course of study. If you’re enrolled or looking to enrol at Wintec and have been diagnosed with a disability please contact Student Learning Services to meet Wade anytime.
Group workshops targeted at specific study skills Counsellors Free and confidential service Kaiāwhina/Student Advisors
Provide support to help students overcome barriers tosuccess
advice, advocacy and personal support
In-class support Appointments Assignments & course content review
Guidance and advice on a range of issues Available 4 days a week
To keep up to date with all that is happening in Te Kete Kōnae (Māori and Pasifika Support) go to the Māori and Pasifika at Wintec facebook page
Whānau Room Study/meeting space, accordingly equipped
https://www.facebook.com/WintecMaoriandPasifika
Available for group study-session bookings Available to students when NOT booked
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TE KETE KŌNAE
Hei Oranga Mou // Kate Wynyard
Hei Oranga Mōu offered a range of motivating and reviving free workshops and activities to cater to our students’ holistic health.
This year, Te Kete Kōnae invited many of our community partners on campus to engage and motivate students and staff to think about a healthy lifestyle. Guest presenters included Kaute Pasifika facilitating a Health awareness expo, Te Runanga o Kirikiriroa offering budgeting advice, current student Chanta Keesing presenting her research around healthy eating, and a Q and A session with a representative from the Young Workers Resource Centre. Over 50 students came to the launch of Hei Oranga Mōu at the marae, and the initiatives have been enjoyed by over 100 more students and staff in the intervening weeks. As with previous years, the Beauty Therapy pamper sessions were a highlight with students able to choose from a manicure, pedicure, facial or eye treatments. Taking time out for ourselves is something we need to do more, so with the inclusion of Tai Chi and Zumba classes, this became a priority over the month. Feedback from participants has been fantastic, and Hei Oranga Mōu has become a key event of the Te Kete Kōnae calendar. We look forward to seeing you there, next year!
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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TE KETE KŌNAE
Maisey Rika He Hokinga Mahara // Paula Simeon
Winter winds whistled through the atea as kaimahi, tauira and whanau whanui gathered at Te Koopu Maania o Kirikiriroa Marae, to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones at a special Matariki concert event ‘He Hokinga Mahara’. In addition to the known celebrations of the New Year, beginnings, learnings, and the seasonal food cycles, Matariki is also a time to reflect, contemplate, give thanks and celebrate special achievements. This annual event in the institution’s calendar was made extra special this year by the guest performance of two outstanding gifted musicians and siblings, Maisey and J.J. Rika. The buzz of excited chatter and giggles filled the Wharenui as everyone gathered to await their arrival, silenced only by the karanga from Director Maori Hera White and Mihi Whakatau by Waikato Kaumatua, Tom Moana. A cover of Rikirangi Gage’s waiata
Above & Middle // Maisey & JJ take pictures with some happy fans. Bottom // Maisey & JJ Rika performing one of their songs.
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‘Whakaaria Mai to Aroha’ opened the performance, received by a silent, star struck audience. JJ’s magical guitar skills and Maisey’s effortless pitch and volume transitions kept everyone spell bound until prompted to join in during ‘Pumau Tonu’. Explanations for waiata ‘Untouchable’ and ‘Ladeda Day’ prompted smiles, nods and verbal tautoko. Cheers for more gradually increased, particularly when ‘Ohomairangi’ and ‘Tangaroa Whakamautai’ were performed. Throughout the concert, sighs of admiration and appreciation were heard in addition to countless requests for “more” as Maisey related each song to either prominent Matariki themes, issues within our communities, her time living in the Waikato rohe and/or those who’d influenced her life at some stage. A special mention was made to J.J and Maisey’s whanau in Omaio and the valuable life lessons
JJ’s magical guitar skills and Maisey’s effortless pitch and volume transitions kept everyone spell bound
learnt during their childhood. Some of the more humorous stories prompted a lot of laughter, as many of the spectators could relate to their own similar experiences. There were special moments throughout the night that invoked tears, as those who’ve left us were paid special tribute. In addition to experiencing the stories behind Maisey’s compositions, almost everyone in attendance had the opportunity to chat with both Maisey and J.J, and have photos together. Both young and old formed a queue and waited long after the evening had come to a close, to meet and thank the gifted duo. Comments such as “food for my soul!”, “Beautiful doesn’t do you justice” were answered with thanks and hugs by the musicians, who travelled on to Auckland early the next morning to run workshops with Rangatahi at annual Matariki event, Pao Pao Pao. ‘He Hokinga Mahara’ was a beautifully organised evening concert that celebrated the unique legacies and lives left by our loved ones no longer with us. Walking to their vehicles on an absolute high, compliments and praise for the performance were audible long after the attendees’ silhouettes faded into the dark night.
Top // Crowd mezmerised. Above // Maisey & JJ take pictures with some of the Wintec staff.. Middle // Maisey & JJ Rika performing one of their songs. Bottom // Mmebers of the crowd mihi to the manuhiri.
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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TE KETE KŌNAE
TAUTOKO IS AN APPOINTMENT AWAY // Tania Oxenham
It has been my observation when working alongside adult students, that returning to study can be an intimidating experience. Some students enter into tertiary study with great hopes and excitement, but soon hit the realities of tertiary life such as coming to grips with the different learning environments (face to face, online, presentations), the course schedules (not always 9 to 3pm), the time dedication needed, the whānau and financial impact, and also the tertiary expectations. Surprisingly, few students understand that these expectations are paramount to their success. The institute will try and provide all the necessary supports, such as academic support, to help a student successfully attain their goals; however, it is up to the student to engage with these supports. Therein lies the issue! Sometimes students won’t access the support because of whakamā (shyness, embarrassment, bashfulness). Peer pressure is not as obvious in tertiary study; however it can stop younger adult students from engaging with supports. Home life and external pressures can cause the student to become disengaged with their learning. Another reason may be because students somehow think it makes them look ‘needy’ or ‘less knowledgeable’. This fallacy couldn’t be further from the truth! Indeed, almost half of my students are B+ to A students, yet they continue to seek academic support from our services. The more relevant query is to ask why these students deliberately seek out this support and the answer is relatively simple. Tania Oxenham.
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Each student has come with aspirations; these may be aligned to themselves, their whānau, hapū, iwi or even to their wider communities or work. The support provided by an academic learning advisor can help a student attain those goals and also make the learning journey less intimidating. More importantly, that support can be tailored to the needs of the presenting student. Interestingly, other cultures have grasped this concept well and yet somehow that has not been embedded in the psyche of our Māori students, despite having the same aspirations, the same dreams, and the same desire to achieve their goals. If I were speaking one on one to a student, what would my advice be? Firstly I would say, no question is a silly question. Why? Because it has presented itself to you as important; therefore, it will be treated as important. Next, I would encourage the student to think about what they need support in – is it around how to write an essay, understanding the question, providing reading strategies, presentations? Following, a student is best helped by bringing the information related to their query; for example, if a student does not understand their assignment question, bringing the assignment question and marking criteria can help the academic learning advisor tailor the learning more specifically. I’d also recommend students come to meet the staff so that they can get a feel for the place and its people. Coming with friends can help! Finally, making an appointment with an academic learning advisor is a known step towards attaining your goals.
Pacific Languages // Naomi Mai
Our language is an important part of our cultural identity. Our country celebrates this by holding language weeks for our Pacific brothers and sisters
Kia orana, Talofa lava, Malo e lelei Fakaalofa lahi atu, Bula vinaka, Namaste, Malo ni, Halo ola keta, Mauri, Fakatalofa atu and Welcome.
Did you know that New Zealand celebrates Pacific Language Weeks? Cook Island and Tonga celebrated their language weeks in August and earlier this month. Get amongst the celebrations and practice with your friends and family.
Did you know that 2014 is the fifth year of the Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Awards? Do you know where to go to if you or your family needed an interpreter or to contact a pacific nation’s embassy? Do you know where you can find funding information specific to Pacific peoples?
For more information, check out the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs website
Tuvalu Fiji Niue Tokelau
29 September – 5 October 6-12 October 13-19 October 26 October – 1 November
Kōanga - Spring // TE KETE KORERO
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HERE TO STAY // Sam Jackson ART BY THERESA REIHANAART BY THERESA REIHANA ART BY THERESA REIHANA NGĀTI HINE NGĀTI HINE NGĀTI HINE When you were born The Ātua took their finest Threads and wove ancestry Inside your blood so you Would never feel alone. They wrapped you in divinity's song And planted you in a land Pregnant with your past. But as you grew, The dark maiden started to gently unravel your divine cord, Fraying generations of strength Picking apart your whakapapa One destructive pattern At a time. She came for you. Every night, She waited for you Her eyes reflected teenage insecurities Filling your head with lies.
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Whispering dark thoughts, A loneliness so cold she Numbed your blood into believing You’d leave no one behind. The kaumatua came And in their chants they tried to lash the generations back together and collect your ancestry Which hung on the solitude Of your final breath. And we drown in silence, Waiting for the light. We are all born Of fine threads, ancestry woven into Our blood so we may Never feel alone. Wrapped in divinity's song And planted in a land Pregnant with our past. We are tangata whenua People of this land Here to stay.
awhinatia, Manaakitia, KOrerotahitia Talk & Listen with Compassion The 10th of September marked an important day on the global calendar, World Suicide Prevention Day. You may have seen staff in purple shirts around campus promoting the TALK message and the LIFELINE number. Whakamomori is a subject we all find hard to discuss, there is support out there and people who want to help. If you would like to TALK contact the Wintec Health services or one of support services listed below.
Ngā tino raru taimaha Critical Signs // Trying to kill themselves // Hurting themselves e.g cutting skin, taking an overdose // Telling you they want to die or kill themselves // Obsession with death
Ngā tiramaka Other Signs
// Isolating themselves from whanau, family and friends // Anger or rage // Feeling worthless, guilty or ashamed // Having no hope for the future // Abusing drugs or alcohol // Giving away possessions // Not taking their medication
If you think someone is at risk Other things to know // Invite them to talk with you // Listen and don’t judge // Take them seriously // Ask them directly about their thoughts of suicide (asking will not put the thought in their head) // Ask them what they are planning – if they have a specific plan, they need help right away // Help them to find and access the support they need // Stay with them until they get help
Other things to know // Be gentle and compassionate with them // Help them feel that there is hope of things getting better – identify things that are positive in their life // Seek support from others including whanau // Do not agree to keep secrets // Let them talk about their thoughts of suicide – avoiding the topic does not help
National Support Services
Contact
Lifeline Tautoko – suicide helpline Youthline Women’s Refuge The Lowdown – Youth Depression Depression Helpline Alcohol and drug helpline OUTLine – sexuality and gender
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) 0800 376 633 or free txt 234 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE) womensrefuge.org.nz thelowdown.co.nz or free txt 5626 0800 111 757 – depression.org.nz 0800 787 797 0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE)
Resource: Tihei Mauri Ora – Supporting Whānau through Suicide Distress (Ministry of Education)
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