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31 October 2024 Christchurch customers connect over kai Fried rice and pita bread pizzas were just some of the culinary delights on the menu when tenants at a Kāinga Ora complex in Christchurch took part in a free course that offers tips on how to cook on a budget.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Alex, who shared his story earlier this year about living in the complex, has been working with Kāinga Ora Community Development Manager Amanda to look at ways of bringing tenants together in the community room downstairs.

As part of this, Amanda, with Alex’s help, organised for charitable organisation Kingdom Resources to run its Christchurch-based ‘Money and Kai’ programme, which focuses on things such as menu planning and easy meal preparation.

Christchurch tenant Colin, with Jacinta from Kingdom Resources, whips up a pita bread pizza.

Tenants got together in the community room every Wednesday for four weeks, making the most of the chance to learn about making affordable, tasty meals from scratch before sharing the kai they had made with each other. At one of the sessions, Alex also shared with other residents how he shops and eats on a budget.

Alex says he’s enjoying helping Amanda to bring everyone together and the “Money and Kai’ course has given him, and the other tenants, a real boost.

“Having this home and the sense of purpose of working with Amanda to support and encourage my neighbours to get involved has helped me too, saved my life really.  The course has been very educational and everyone seems uplifted from learning together. It’s increased their mana.

“I’ve also been able to share the budget learnings and recipes with my friends and family, which is nice,” Alex says.

Jacinta from Kingdom Resources says it was great to see Kāinga Ora tenants enjoying each other’s company and sharing ideas on how to eat well within a budget. “That’s what this course is all about. People saying, ‘I have knowledge, and you have knowledge and how can we make it easier for each other,” she says.

Page updated: 31 October 2024

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Guatemala

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

  • Reviewed: 30 October 2024, 15:01 NZDT
  • Still current at: 30 October 2024

Related news features

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas due to violent crime (level 3 of 4):

  • within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing
  • to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenangodue.

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Guatemala due to violent crime and civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

Guatemala

Violent Crime
Guatemala has a high violent crime rate. Criminal acts often involve firearms and may include armed robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault and murder. The majority of this crime is drug and gang-related, however, violence can be indiscriminate and occur in areas frequented by tourists.

New Zealanders in Guatemala should remain security conscious and exercise a high degree of caution at all times. This includes in Guatemala City and other major cities, public areas and tourist destinations including Tikal, Petén, Antigua, Volcán de Pacaya and Lake Atitlán.

Sexual assault remains a risk. There have been incidents of drink spiking in tourist areas such as Antigua. We advise New Zealanders to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid travelling alone, especially at night.

Pickpockets and bag snatchers are prevalent in major cities and tourist sites, especially in central markets. We advise New Zealanders to take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

“Express kidnappings” have also been reported in Guatemala, where criminals abduct a victim for a short amount of time and force them to withdraw funds from their bank account. To reduce the risk of this occurring we recommend you use ATMs that are located within bank branches and during daylight hours only. We also recommend you avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Victims have been killed and injured attempting to resist perpetrators.

When travelling to remote areas, including to volcanoes, it may be safer to travel with others or a reputable tour company. The Guatemalan Government PROATUR service offers tourist advice and security escorts for travel around the country.

Road Travel
Inter-city travel can be dangerous, particularly after dark. There have been reports of armed robbery and bus/carjackings affecting tourists on a number of travel routes, including along main highways and the road to and from the international airport in Guatemala City. Armed criminals have been known to set up roadblocks and pose as police officers. If travelling by road, you should keep doors locked, valuables out of sight and windows up at all times. Wherever possible travel in a convoy and avoid all travel after dark.

Travel on local public buses (“chicken buses”) should be avoided for safety and security reasons as they are usually overloaded and there have been armed attacks by gangs and incidents of crime against foreigners on buses. Radio-dispatched or hotel taxis are the safest option as there have been robberies and assaults associated with unofficial taxis. Prepaid vouchers can also be purchased from the INGUAT (tourist office) in the arrivals terminal.

Borders
Special care should also be taken in border areas with Belize, Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador and at border crossings due to organised crime and drug-related violence. Allow enough time for border formalities so that you can arrive at your destination before dark.

Seismic Activity
Guatemala lies in a seismically active zone with four active volcanoes, and the possibility of an eruption always exists. Previously volcanic activity has forced evacuation of nearby visitors. Tremors are common, so familiarise yourself with earthquake safety measures. Travellers should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions in the event of seismic or volcanic activity. Monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media, and follow any alerts or instructions from local authorities.

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations, including strike action and roadblocks, occur across Guatemala and have the potential to turn violent with little notice. They can cause disruptions to traffic and essential services. We recommend you avoid large gatherings, monitor the local media for updated security information and follow any instructions issued by local authorities, including curfews. Participation in demonstrations by foreigners is illegal and may result in detention and expulsion from the country.

General Travel Advice
Carry a photocopy or certified true copy of your passport as a form of personal identification when travelling.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Do not take photographs of children without permission. Many people in Guatemala fear that children are being kidnapped for adoption or for theft of vital organs, and foreigners have been caught up in violent incidents related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping. Photography of government buildings, airports and military establishments is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Medical facilities are limited outside Guatemala City. New Zealanders in Guatemala should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provisions for adventure activities and medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Guatemala are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Mexico City, Mexico is accredited to Guatemala

Street Address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510 Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Fax +52 55 5283 9480 Email nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/mexico Hours Mon – Fri 0930 – 1400

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Guatemala City, Guatemala

Street Address 13 Calle 7-71, Zona 10, Guatemala City 01010, Guatemala Telephone (+502) 2360-8276 Alternate Telephone (+502) 2360-4961 Fax +502 2431 3742 Email kiwiguatemala@gmail.com

See our regional advice for Central/South America

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Whakamaru Opening

Source: New Zealand Governor General

E nga mana, e nga reo, e nga iwi o te motu e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

I specifically acknowledge:

  • The Honourable Nicola Willis
    • The Most Reverend Justin Duckworth
    • Laurie Foon (Deputy Mayor)
    • John Maurice and Darryl Gardiner (the WCM Board)
    • Nick Clayton (from Naylor Love)
    • Kura Moeahu
    • Murray Edridge, and his team at the Wellington City Mission

Thank you, Murray for inviting Richard and me to be part of this wonderful occasion.

I wish to begin by referring to a speech by former Governor-General, Sir Paul Reeves, in which he quotes the great New Zealand writer Maurice Shadbolt: ‘If we accept what we are, we make no arrangement for what we might be.’

It seems to me that this ethos has long driven the work of Wellington City Mission.

For 120 years, generations of City Missioners, staff and volunteers have not accepted the presence of homelessness, poverty, and social isolation in our city – and have worked tirelessly to help individuals become what they might be.

Whakamaru takes this mahi to a completely new level. This beautiful building has been conceived and built with such profound care and thought for the needs of the people who will use it: whānau, manuhiri, staff and members of the community.

Sir Paul’s reflections on the nature of compassion could easily be applied to the work of the City Mission. He said: ‘Compassion is about relieving the pain of others. Compassion leads to feeding, clothing, sheltering, educating, comforting and so on. There is nothing sentimental about compassion.’

Here, at Whakamaru, we see compassion, or manaakitanga, expressed in deeply practical ways: by providing somewhere to shower, to launder clothes, to sleep, and get food and medical treatment. And we also see manaakitanga in its sense of upholding mana and human dignity through the expression of respect, solace and wise counsel.

I am sure Whakamaru will become a model for the delivery of social services, and will inspire similar projects elsewhere – in Aotearoa and beyond our shores.

One thing I know they will not share with Whakamaru is views of Government House’s gardens. My daily walks with my little dogs take me down to a grove just over your back fence, and I have been able to keep an eagle eye on the progress of this build. I have been very keen to see what it looks like from the inside, and having now seen this beautiful space, I am looking forward to seeing more of this very special building.

Congratulations, Murray, for getting this ambitious, one might even say ‘revolutionary’ project off the ground. It’s a tribute to your belief, confidence, and drive – as well as some highly innovative fund-raising approaches.

Speaking of which, I am deeply grateful that you did not approach me or Richard to follow the example of Sir Ashley Bloomfield and abseil up the side of a building to sign your trust deed.

What I can do is acknowledge and thank everyone involved in bringing this project to fruition – funders, supporters, architects, all those involved in its construction, Te Atiawa, Ngati Toa, staff and volunteers.

I know I speak for Richard and me, and for the staff at Government House, when I say how proud we are to be your close neighbours. We won’t be strangers, and will take up your invitation to be part of this intentional community – and to contribute where we can – including turning up for the occasional karaoke evening.

Kia ora huihui tātou katoa

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South Sudan

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

  • Reviewed: 30 October 2024, 14:28 NZDT
  • Still current at: 30 October 2024

Related news features

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to South Sudan due to ongoing armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime (level 4 of 4).

New Zealanders currently in South Sudan are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so.

South Sudan

Armed Conflict/Civil Unrest
Pockets of armed conflict between government and various opposition forces remain and the security situation in Juba has the potential to deteriorate with little or no warning. Land routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked and flights may be cancelled at short notice. The political and security situation throughout South Sudan remains volatile.

Inter-ethnic violence and cattle raiding continues to occur throughout the country, with significant loss of life. There is a complete absence of rule of law outside of the capital Juba and even in Juba, the capacity of the authorities to uphold law and order is very limited.

Areas within 40 kilometres of South Sudan’s northern border with Sudan are also particularly dangerous and vulnerable to armed incursions and violence.  Parts of the border remain disputed and military forces are deployed in these areas.

The border areas with South Sudan’s other neighbouring countries, including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, the Central African Republic, and Uganda are extremely dangerous due to armed conflict, military activity and other violence. There are regular reports of attacks by armed groups on vehicles travelling on the main road connecting Juba to Uganda (Jiba-Niomule road).

We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings in South Sudan as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

Violent Crime
Violent crime, including kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, home invasions, car-jacking, and sexual assault is a significant problem throughout South Sudan, both in urban and rural areas. The economic situation has led to a significant increase in both petty and violent crime. Criminals are often armed as weapons are readily accessible.

The government has limited capacity to deter crime and maintain law and order throughout South Sudan. Banditry and lawlessness is an issue in rural areas. Humanitarian workers have been the targets of killings and violence in the past.

New Zealanders in South Sudan should exercise a very high degree of personal security awareness at all times. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. For security reasons we recommend against travelling alone, at night, or to isolated areas.

Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, also occurs and is often accompanied by violence. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

Road Travel
We strongly advise against using public transport due to safety concerns.

If travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up.

Official checkpoints are frequently set up by security forces and have been known to become hostile or violent. Individuals staffing checkpoints have been known to solicit bribes. Criminals who pose as police officers have also set up roadblocks. At checkpoints, remain in your vehicle and produce requested documents through a raised window. We recommend carrying colour photocopies of your passport and identity documents and producing these when requested, not the originals.

Landmines
There is a risk from landmines, which are reportedly present throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in South Sudan, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to South Sudan should consider.

We advise New Zealanders in South Sudan to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety, including by seeking professional security advice. You should have a contingency plan in place for departure, monitor developments closely through the media and other local information sources. As a precautionary measure, we recommend ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, fuel, cash and essential medications are always on hand and travel documents are kept up to date.

New Zealanders travelling or living in South Sudan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.  You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel to South Sudan – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in South Sudan. 

The rainy season typically runs from April to November, during which flooding often occurs. Flooding impacts transport and communications infrastructure, as well as lead to shortages of drinking water and food. Severe flooding has led to displacement, property damage and loss of life.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in South Sudan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion is recommended for both dress and behaviour.

Photography, including from a mobile phone, without a permit from the Ministry of Information in South Sudan is illegal. Taking photographs without a permit will immediately attract suspicion, and could lead to detention. Even with a permit, it is illegal to take photos of airfields, military installations or personal, government buildings and infrastructure.

New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in South Sudan against our advice are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

See our regional advice for Africa

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Madagascar

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

Madagascar

Political Tension/Civil Unrest
New Zealanders in Madagascar are advised to avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings, as even those intended to be peaceful have the potential to turn violent. You should adhere to any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities, and monitor local media for updates.

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25 October 2024 The road to Northland’s largest new development A small but significant road that connects 55 new Kāinga Ora homes in Whangārei has been gifted a new name – Papa Totara Loop.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Pari Walker, a Kaumatua of Northland hapū Te Parawhau, unveiled the name at a recent dawn ceremony for Wanaka Street – the largest Kāinga Ora development in the region – before he led a group to officially open the homes.

“People call it a blessing but it’s actually a tuwhera,” Pari says. Tuwhera, which can mean ‘opening up’ or ‘to be open’, includes different types of karakia.

“They revolve around things like the earth – the whenua – the buildings, the materials, Tāne’s realm and where all of that comes from, and it’s clearing the spaces.”

Named for ‘whakaaro’

Te Parawhau Kaumatua Pari Walker leads a tuwhera at Wanaka Street in Whangārei.

As the tuwhera draws to a close, Pari explains how Papa Totara Loop’s name came from the relationship between Te Parawhau, Kāinga Ora and build partner Soho Group during development of the homes.

“Once we got through the design phase, we went through our uara,” says Pari Walker. “We have an uara ahurea, which is our cultural values, and we looked at a lot of things.”

Plans originally included the removal of two trees, a tōtara and a pūriri, so mana whenua requested they remain.

“They altered their plans to save the trees,” Pari says, “and so in acknowledgement to their whakaaro and what they did, we named the road Papa Totara.”

Homes for ‘how people live’

The homes here were designed and built by Soho Group for Kāinga Ora customers, and those customers were the focus from the project’s beginning.

“Soho Group wanted to partner with Kāinga Ora because we see the work that Kāinga Ora does as really vital and important – it works to the same core values that we do,” says General Manager Ben Noone.

“We think this is going to be a great place for people to come and live, because it’s taken into account how people live.

“It’s homes built with community gardens, it’s got community space, it’s got greenspace. It’s got the aspect of the sun, and how the weather works, all considered into the development.”

Room to connect

Along with each of the 55 new homes, Papa Totara Loop also connects residents with Te Whare o Tukua o Punga – a community room for residents to gather, have a cup of tea and get to know their neighbours.

Its name was gifted by Northland hapū Ngāti Hau, in honour of the suburb where these homes were built, Tikipunga, and how it was originally known by mana whenua.

‘Partnerships built this’

For Jeff Murray, Kāinga Ora Regional Director – Northland, the development reflects what can be achieved by working together.

“The development is thoughtfully designed and built, prioritising connection and community,” he says.

“Partnerships built this development, and we’re already seeing those same values extend to supporting our customers as they move in.

“Members at HOPE Tikipunga church have prepared welcome baskets for residents. Our Housing Support team will also be here at Te Whare o Tukua o Punga each week, to meet with our customers and help them make the most of this space.”

With strong foundations set, Wanaka Street is on its way to meet Kaumatua Pari’s final hopes for this place.

“Well my hopes are that we’re not just building them a house,” he says. “My hopes are that we’re building them a community.”

Page updated: 25 October 2024

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24 October 2024 Kāinga Ora keeping communities informed An information session held recently in Pakūranga provided an opportunity for new tenants, neighbours, and members of the local community to meet and learn more more about the new Kāinga Ora homes that have been delivered over the past year.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

Rose, Stakeholder Relationship Manager for Central and East Auckland says information sessions continue to be a really important way for Kāinga Ora to keep communities informed.

“While we ensure information about our developments is always accessible through online channels like our website and our interactive Social Pinpoint maps which we provide by Local Board area, we also recognise that communities appreciate an opportunity to meet face-to-face. We also invite tenants as these events provide an opportunity to meet neighbours and other stakeholders active in the local community.” Rose says.

Howick Local Board Chair Damian Light who came along agrees.

“The Howick Local Board is grateful that Kāinga Ora continues to engage with our communities before, during, and after these developments – helping build homes and communities.”

New Pakūranga customer Abdulla with Central and East Auckland Engagement and Partnerships Manager Helen Grant.

“Information sessions are a great opportunity for locals to meet with Kāinga Ora team members to learn more about the developments happening around Pakūranga. With a number of new homes already delivered, I also enjoyed an opportunity to meet some of the new tenants and welcome them to the neighbourhood.”

“It’s also encouraging to see the quality of developments that are being delivered in our area, especially those that are accessible through universal design.” Damian says.

New Pakūranga tenant Abdulla also enjoyed the information session.

“I came along as our family have recently moved into a new Kāinga Ora home in this community. I also wanted to let Kāinga Ora know that our home is already having a positive impact on the health of my children,” Abdulla said.

“When we were living in our other rental house my children were always sick with breathing problems, chest infections, coughs, and colds. I am so happy now as my children are no longer sick. Our new Kāinga Ora home is a healthy house and so warm, and dry,” Abdulla says.

Kāinga Ora has delivered 81 new warm, dry homes over the past year across 12 sites in Pakuranga including this 6-bedroom family home.

One of the new Kāinga Ora homes

Page updated: 24 October 2024

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Reception for the Diplomatic Corps in Niue

Source: New Zealand Governor General

Fakaalofa lahi atu kia mutolu oti – and my very warmest Pacific greetings to you all.

I’d like to specifically knowledge: Prime Minister Tagelagi and Tanya Tagelagi; Members of the Niue Assembly; Your Excellency Mr Mark Gibb, New Zealand High Commissioner to Niue; Your Excellency Ms Katy Stuart, Australian High Commissioner to Niue; and Members of the Diplomatic Corps.

Tēnā koutou katoa.

As Governor-General of the Realm of New Zealand, representing His Majesty King Charles III, as well as the Government and people of New Zealand, it has been an honour to be here in Niue for this historic occasion – marking fifty years of Niue’s self-government and free association with New Zealand.

Dr Davies and I have welcomed this opportunity be a part of this proud moment in Niuean history, and to reaffirm the depth and special meaning of the relationship between our two countries.

On a fundamental level, of course, ours is a relationship underpinned by those constitutional arrangements decided upon and inaugurated 50 years ago, on the 19th of October 1974.

Of course, in fact, the relationship between our two nations extends back much further than that. We are bound by our whakapapa – our common ancestors – who, hundreds of years ago, guided by the stars, the winds and the currents, navigated their way across Te Moana-nui-a-kiwa with immense courage and skill.

New Zealand and Niue share Polynesian histories and stories with their origins in those great voyages, as well as the many precious ties of whānau – of family – strengthened over successive generations.

As I come to the end of my time here, in this beautiful place – the ‘Rock of the Pacific’ – and reflect upon how it has touched my understanding of the bond between our countries, I find myself returning to ‘whanaungatanga’ – a term in te reo Māori which refers to a sense of sacred ties; of kinship; and of deep and abiding family connections.

As the passing of time naturally alters the relationships within a family, so too the relationship between New Zealand and Niue has naturally evolved over these past fifty years. As one part of that evolution, Niue has developed and nurtured its own diplomatic relationships with countries across the Pacific and around the world.

I’m delighted to see many of those relationships present here this evening, in friendship and support – bringing to mind, as it does, the whakataukī, or proverb: ‘Ehara tāku toa i te toa takitahi, engari takimano, nō āku tīpuna. My strength is not individual it is collective.’

Such kotahitanga, such unity of action, is more important than ever in facing some of the most pressing global issues of our time: climate change, economic security, achieving equitable health and education outcomes. I am confident we will find solutions, but it requires that we do the work, and that we continue to share our knowledge, resources, and wisdom.

I wish to take this opportunity to commend Niue for the work that you’ve done to encourage such collaboration, and the innovation that you’ve shown across areas as broad as food production, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism.

The Niue and Ocean-Wide Trust is a perfect example of your commitment to initiatives whose ethos extends far beyond self-interest, which encourages collective action, and which seeks the greatest possible benefit to our planet and to broader humanity.

As Governor-General, I once again reinforce New Zealand’s commitment to be a friend and partner to Niue in facing the challenges and seizing the opportunities of these coming years.

I finish today by returning to the extraordinary image of those great Polynesian explorers charting their course across the Pacific Ocean. As we leave here, I hope we may all be inspired by the example of those early pathfinders – to be courageous in our actions as in our words, to live with deep care and respect for the natural world, and to work together, in the abiding spirit of whanaungatanga and kotahitanga, to seek a positive future for all.

Fakaaue lahi. Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

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Pule Fakamotu 2024 (Constitution Day Flag Raising) Commemoration

Source: New Zealand Governor General

Fakaalofa lahi atu – and my very warmest Pacific greetings.

I’d like to specifically acknowledge: Prime Minister Tagelagi; Prime Minister Mark Brown of the Cook Islands; Alapati Tavite, Ulu of Tokelau; President Williame Katonivere of Fiji; Ministers and Members of Parliament of Niue; and Members of the Diplomatic Corps.

Thank you, Prime Minister Tagelagi for inviting Richard and me to join leaders of our ‘Realm family’ and members of the Diplomatic Corps in celebrating this year’s Constitution Day, marking the 50th year of self-government and enduring freedom of association with New Zealand.

I am honoured to represent His Majesty King Charles III, our Head of State of the Realm of New Zealand, and affirm his best wishes to you all on this very special day for Niue.

I also wish to convey warmest congratulations from the nearly 31,000 New Zealanders who regard Niue as home. You will be aware of the great pride they take in their distinctive culture, language and traditions, and the strength of their connections to Niue.

I’m sure those who witnessed that historic moment fifty years ago, on the 19th of October 1974, would be delighted to see what has been achieved in the intervening years: the upgraded roads and airport, the growth of tourism with Matavai Resort and other outstanding new accommodation options, the sea tracks, Niue Development Bank, new government buildings, a supermarket complex, and Millenium Hall.

Similarly, I hope they would applaud the emphasis on sustainability and the protection of biodiversity, the establishment of a maritime protection area, and modernised waste management systems.

I hope they would also be pleased to see Niue’s connections to the world, enabled by jet travel and internet access. I’m sure they would be astonished and delighted to see the growth of media and educational opportunities, solar power, electronic banking, an emergency operations centre, and the facilities of a truly modern hospital.

I was pleased to learn how closely Niue and New Zealand worked to minimise the impact of COVID-19, and I wish to congratulate Prime Minister Tagelagi and everyone involved in keeping the people of Niue safe.

Nationhood is necessarily an ongoing project, based on a shared understanding of identity, values, and culture.

All Niueans contribute to this vision, whether they be Assembly Members, Ministers of Cabinet, the Speakers of the Fale Fono, the Public Service Commissioners, Secretaries of Government, the Judges and Judiciary, Niue’s High Commissioners in New Zealand, the Public Service, educators, the keepers of traditional knowledge and crafts, or artists, composers and cultural performers. So too do those Niueans engaged in fishing, growing crops, joining in community and church activities, and hosting tourists – as well as tupuna and spiritual leaders providing wise guidance and counsel across communities.

I commend the people of Niue for working to sustain and transfer their cultural heritage and traditions. Showdays and Taoga Festivals have brought villages together with the Niuean diaspora to celebrate community, tradition and whanaungatanga. It must be gratifying to see Niueans born in New Zealand choosing to live here, and renew their ties with their culture and history.

Since 1974, New Zealand has been proud to be Niue’s Constitutional partner, with responsibilities to provide necessary administrative support. The bonds between our two nations have flourished, nurtured by our shared history, language, culture and citizenship.

The people-to-people links, forged through family ties, friendships, and shared experiences, have created a tapestry of interwoven lives between Niue and New Zealand, and Niue and the Pacific. 

Today, we are joined by Niueans who have travelled from New Zealand, Australia and beyond to be part of these celebrations.

Over these past fifty years, Niue has developed its own network of diplomatic, political, trade and economic relationships – and I acknowledge the support and collaboration of such partners and friends who are with us in celebration today. As Niue continues its journey of growth and development, I pay tribute to those partners who have supported those development aspirations, and your vision of a connected and prosperous Niue.

All of us share in the challenges of our times – particularly climate change – and it is in the absolute interests of all of us to do what is right and what is necessary to build greater resilience and wellbeing for the people of the Pacific.

This special Aho Pulefakamotu is a time for Niueans to celebrate the legacy of your forebears, and to look forward to how you might shape the destiny of your nation.

I wish the people of Niue every success with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead – strengthened by the executive, legislative and judicial processes established by your Constitution – and secure in the knowledge that you will be supported, as always, by your friends in New Zealand.

Kia moui olaola a Niue. Kia tumau a Niue.  Niue ke Monuina. Niue ko Kaina. Niue ki Mua.

Now, onwards to the next 50 glorious years. May God Bless Niue. May God Bless you all. Kia fakamonuina mai he Atua a Niue Fekai.

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22 October 2024 Bookworm Janette opened a library for her neighbours When Janette moved into her new Kāinga Ora home, she set up a library for all her neighbours.

Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

At Janette’s new apartment complex, there are nooks in the entrance space where neighbours can gather, with lounge chairs and built-in window seats.

Janette noticed open storage spaces beneath the window seats and immediately visualised them filled with books. She thought how nice it would be for neighbours to lounge in the light-filled spaces reading or for them to borrow books to read back in their apartments.

A month on, Janette’s vision has become a reality thanks to her enterprise and with support from the local library.

“I’m an avid reader and I saw the opportunity for us to have a little library,” says Janette.

“I popped into the public library and asked if they had any old books for sale. They gave me 20 used books, but they refused to take any money for them.”

Library staff said the books were a welcome gift to their new neighbours and soon followed up with a further 10 books.

Janette is modest about her effort, saying it’s all part of being in a community.

“One of my neighbours helped me get my washing machine plumbed in, and another showed me how to work the heat pump. Organising a little library is a way that I can contribute.”

The complex is designed for ease of community building, with all customers having access to resident lounges, where they meet weekly to chat and often bring food to share.

“I’m very happy here,” says Janette. “The location is fantastic with easy access to shops and amenities, my apartment is secure, quiet and sunny, and my neighbours are great.” 

Page updated: 22 October 2024