Land Stories
June 27, 2025
Most of us understand that treaty settlements with New Zealand Maori are about trying to redress past wrongs. Growing up in Christchurch, I didn't give much thought to the matter, as I recall there was only one Maori kid at our high school, indeed there were probably more Asian exchange students back then. Besides Canterbury was purchased and paid for and native rights had been extinguished when the first European settlers arrived. What we weren't taught was what a shonky and dishonest that deal it was. Enterprise and prosperity followed colonisation, but not for all, Maori were made beggars in their own land. This is a sponsored story for the Christchurch Methodist Mission. My thanks to Dr. Jane Higgins for allowing me to share her work.
A sponsored story explaining how water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis works, providing a clear picture of the process and the basic science behind it. New Zealand's first Water Cremation service was opened in 2025 beginning a new era in funeral practices in Aotearoa. This story gives the background.
It was only meant to be a six week project, but it lasted for two years. The engagement and results speak for themselves, with a number of city's most difficult to reach rough sleepers now housed. Most the 'kaewa' or 'wanderers' have been living on the streets for years and struggle with multiple issues including addiction and mental health problems. Housing First- Otautahi sit up the commons project during covid so the homeless would have somewhere to gather during the lock down. The result was a shared meeting place in the central city, where those needing help could connect with those providing help, but on their on terms. The gatherings only last for a few hours each week, but that's all it takes to build trust and deepen relationships.