We had an awesome day at the marae hosting our mid-winter Christmas dinner. We were lucky enough to enjoy the company of some of our Moeraki and Arowhenua whanaunga and members of our farming community as well.
We had our whānau meeting, which was then followed by a presentation of the DVD, Beneath the Surface, by the Working Waters Trust – “Everyone wants to clean up Lake Horowhenua and yet it remains one of New Zealand’s unhealthiest lakes.
Once a pristine haven fought for by the ancestors Muaupoko, the lake provided physical and spiritual nourishment for their tribe. A few generations of degradation and 30 years of sewerage has turned the lake into a toxic pit devoid of life.
The Muaupoko people are now fighting to reverse the damage done to their precious taonga.
Beneath the Surface takes you to Levin, New Zealand, where the stagnant situation of a polluted lake is dividing the community.”
There was face painting for everyone, waiata and kapa haka, visits by Dora the Explorer and Minnie Mouse, kids games and kite making. It was a wonderful day enjoyed by all and topped off with magnificent kai. Thanks to everyone who helped and participated. There may be more pictures coming up on our Waihao Facebook Page, so keep a look out for those.
Wrap up and stay warm whānau.
