Game of Thrones and political machinations – drama in real life!It’s been a shocker week in politics. Many media pundits might argue that it’s been far worse for those on the left than those on the right. Both major parties, as this Kiwi sees it, have been ‘tricky’. From ‘secret’ trusts, over inflated ‘dinners’,…
Inspiring Change – The Day of the Women
Today I saw a post from our Ex Prime Minster, Helen Clark (and if I say so myself, one of the best our country has ever seen, and a hero of mine). She made a post, to commemorate that today, the 8th of March, is International Women’s Day. She shared the UN’s (United Nations) ‘Progress…
Whose Responsibility is it?
Children’s day in NZ is tomorrow. It’s got me wondering. What do children need, and whose responsible for what they need? Sounds simple doesn’t it. On the face of it, the majority of people will say parents are responsible for everything. Perhaps. I started reflecting on the ‘perhaps’, and some of the variables…
When things make you go Hmmm – Post Graduate Teacher Training
A good friend and outstanding educator posted a link today that made me a bit cross, and gave rise to some internal grumblings. It was an opinion piece about teacher training and in particular training at at a post graduate level by Associate Professor Claire Fletcher-Flynn. From where I sit, as someone who employs graduates…
Chinese Lantern Festival
Last weekend we went and checked out the Chinese Lantern Festival. It’s a highlight in our Auckland calendar and one of the most magical events of the year. With thousands of pretty lanterns, Over 100 food stalls and a variety of entertainment, it is…
The Truth As It Relates to Cattle
The wisdom of the universe has an interesting habit of turning up in the strangest of places. When I look at the above joke (cheers to whomever it was that emailed it to me originally – I am sure at the time it served as a wee pick me up – given the trials and…
Professional Neglect – What are the safeguards for vulnerable children neglected by the system?
Today I read an article that disappointed me. The headline read “Boy 8, who hanged himself, ‘let down’ by Social Services”. A young man, Rexford, hung himself in 2008, and the findings from the inquest are enough to break your heart. He was only 8. In his short time in our world, he had…
The Big Gay Out
Coyle Park looking towards Auckland City and the Sky Tower On Sunday we went to the Big Gay Out. It was our first time visiting this annual Auckland Festival, and it was fabulous! The Festival was held at Point Chevalier’s Coyle Park. This was the 15th year the festival has been run, with an estimated 15,000…
Waitangi Day – New Zealand’s Day!
The FlagPole at the Treaty Grounds Today is Waitangi day. Waitangi Day is held every year on the 6th of February, and it is New Zealand’s National holiday to celebrate the signing of the Treaty, back in 1840. The Treaty is considered NZ’s founding document, much like the Declaration of Independence. With that in mind,…
Avondale Market
Avondale Market Avondale Market, held each Sunday at the Avondale Racecourse, is fabulous. It is especially famtastic for fresh fruit and vegetables that are cheap, seasonal and all round great value! It’s an eclectic place, chocca…