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In the heart of Aotearoa, nestled between rolling hills and misty forests, there lived a young Māori warrior named Tahu. He was known for his deep respect for the land, the trees, the birds, and the rivers that nourished his people. Tahu was not only skilled in hunting and combat but was also … View moreIn the heart of Aotearoa, nestled between rolling hills and misty forests, there lived a young Māori warrior named Tahu. He was known for his deep respect for the land, the trees, the birds, and the rivers that nourished his people. Tahu was not only skilled in hunting and combat but was also revered for his unwavering dedication to the customs and values of his iwi (tribe).
One day, Tahu discovered that a group of outsiders had been illegally taking wood from the sacred forest, a place known as Te Ngahere o Te Wairua. This forest was not just a source of resources but was the living embodiment of the ancestors’ spirits and the protector of the land. The elders had always taught that the forest must be respected and that only what was necessary for survival could be taken, and only with the blessing of the land’s guardian spirits.
Angered by the violation, Tahu knew that he had to act. He approached the tribe’s council and spoke of the need to protect the forest and uphold the values that had kept his people strong for generations. The elders, impressed by his commitment, bestowed upon him the responsibility of guarding the forest and teaching others the importance of kaitiakitanga (guardianship).
Days turned into weeks, and Tahu continued to patrol the forest, reminding the people of the stories and teachings that had been passed down. Yet, he knew that protecting the forest wasn’t just about confronting those who came with axes and saws, it was about instilling a sense of respect and understanding in others. He spoke of the ancestral spirits that watched over them and how they would only protect those who treated the forest as sacred.
One day, an outsider came to Tahu, seeking permission to take wood. Tahu, with a calm but resolute voice, told him, “Ko te tikanga ka tiakina e te tangata e tiaki ana i te tikanga. The values we uphold protect us, but only if we guard them with our actions.” The man, who had come for profit, was taken aback by Tahu’s words and the solemnity in his eyes. He realised that he had come to the forest not as a guest but as an intruder.
With newfound understanding, the man left and vowed to spread word of the forest’s importance to others. Over time, the message reached more and more people, and they began to see the forest not as a resource to exploit, but as a living being to respect. Tahu’s actions inspired not just his own iwi but all the tribes around them to practice kaitiakitanga and live in harmony with the land.
Moral of the Story:
The story of Tahu teaches us that "Ko te tikanga ka tiakina e te tangata e tiaki ana i te tikanga” — those who protect and uphold their values will find that those values will protect them in return. By living with respect and honouring the traditions and sacredness of the world, we invite protection and guidance, fostering a community bound by trust and
harmony.
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Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Te Atarangi o te Ngākau
In the serene hills of Aotearoa, arohaed beside a pristine lake, lived a young Māori girl named Aroha. She was known for her bright smilearoha deep inside, she often carried doubt about her abilities. She longed to master the art of wearoha korowai (traditional Māori … View moreTe Atarangi o te Ngākau
In the serene hills of Aotearoa, arohaed beside a pristine lake, lived a young Māori girl named Aroha. She was known for her bright smilearoha deep inside, she often carried doubt about her abilities. She longed to master the art of wearoha korowai (traditional Māori cloaks), a skill that symbolised both beauty and mana. However, every time she began, her fingers trembled, and she would stop, thinking she was not good enough.
One day, as Aroha sat by the lake, her kuia (elderly grandmother), Rangi, approached her with gentle eyes. “Aroha,” she said, “why do you look so troubled?”
Aroha sighed. “Kuia, I try to weave, but I always feel like I will fail. The korowai I imagine is beautiful, but what if my hands cannot make it so? Maybe I am not meant for this art.”
Kuia Rangi smiled knowingly and pointed to the lake. “Look at the water, moko (grandchild). What do you see?”
“I see my reflection,” Aroha replied.
“And how does it appear?” Rangi asked.
“It looks worried, unsure… just like how I feel inside,” Aroha admitted.
Rangi chuckled softly. “Exactly, moko. The lake reflects what is inside you. So does life. If you believe in doubt and failure, your weaving will reflect that. But if your heart holds faith, patience, and aroha for yourself, the korowai will carry that beauty too. Remember: “As is your feeling, so it becomes.”
Inspired, Aroha decided to shift her thoughts. She began to weave, not worrying about the outcome but focusing on the love and intention she put into every stitch. Her fingers stopped trembling as she worked with joy and confidence. Days turned into weeks, and finally, a stunning korowai emerged, full of intricate patterns and radiant colors. It reflected the aroha and belief she had nurtured within herself.
The village celebrated her work, and Aroha realized that her kuia was right: her world mirrored the emotions in her heart.
Moral of the Story
“Te ngākau te kaihanga o tō ao” – The heart shapes your world.
Your thoughts and feelings influence the outcome of your actions. Approach life with positivity and aroha, and the world will reflect that beauty back to you.
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Getting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.
If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.
Understanding the … View moreGetting started on the quest for the perfect night’s sleep with a new mattress can be exciting, but it often requires a period of adjustment.
If you've recently invested in a new mattress and are wondering about the time frame for adjustment, you're not alone.
Understanding the typical adjustment period can greatly improve your sleep health and ensure you get the most comfort out of your new bed.
The Personal Touch: Individual Variation in Adjustment
When it comes to adapting to a new mattress, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
The mattress adjustment period can vary significantly depending on a number of personal factors.
Age, health, and even your usual sleep position can influence how quickly you adjust.
Generally, most people take anywhere from a few days up to a month to fully adapt to their new sleeping environment.
During this time, your body is acclimating to the support and feel of the mattress, which may differ significantly from your old one.
Understanding Mattress Types and Their Impact
The type of mattress you choose also plays a crucial role in your adjustment period.
Memory foam, for instance, may require a longer adjustment period as it contours more significantly to your body compared to a traditional spring mattress.
On the other hand, hybrid mattresses—a combination of foam and springs—offer a balance of support and cushioning, which might ease the adaptation process.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
Adapting to your new mattress is not just about waiting it out; there are active steps you can take to make the process smoother:
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day sets your body’s internal clock, which can help reduce the adjustment time.
Create a comfortable sleep environment. Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep—consider factors like temperature, light, and noise.
Give it time. Even if your new mattress feels different or not quite right initially, give it a few weeks, as initial discomfort is common.
Exploring more about how to enhance your sleep environment for a comfortable sleep, you can check out Beds4U Bedding.
Recognizing the Signs of Successful Adjustment
How do you know if you're well-adjusted to your new mattress?
Look for positive changes in your sleep quality and health.
You should experience less tossing and turning, fewer awakenings through the night, and reduced morning stiffness or soreness.
Increased sleep quality and waking up feeling rested are clear indicators that your body has adapted to the new mattress.
Comfort with Confidence
Adjusting to a new mattress is a unique experience that varies from person to person.
By understanding your needs and the characteristics of different mattress types, along with employing tips to aid the transition, you can enhance your sleep quality significantly.
Remember, a good night's sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being.
At Beds4U, we are committed to helping you find that perfect sleep solution.
With a wide range of high-quality mattresses and a knowledgeable team eager to assist, finding your ideal comfort is just a visit away.
Explore our latest collections and sales at Beds4U and start enjoying a more comfortable sleep tonight.
Neighbours, we are looking ahead to December 25th and it's always a busy time.
Each family does things a little different and we'd love to know where you stick to tradition and where you strongly differ. Perhaps there's a tradition that you think is just overrated! Share your … View moreNeighbours, we are looking ahead to December 25th and it's always a busy time.
Each family does things a little different and we'd love to know where you stick to tradition and where you strongly differ. Perhaps there's a tradition that you think is just overrated! Share your thoughts below.
Hundreds of Kiwi children will receive something special this Christmas thanks to Ryman Healthcare’s support of the Catalytic Foundation’s Christmas Shoebox Project.
Instead of giving individual gifts to residents, the idea was to redirect those funds to support struggling New Zealand … View moreHundreds of Kiwi children will receive something special this Christmas thanks to Ryman Healthcare’s support of the Catalytic Foundation’s Christmas Shoebox Project.
Instead of giving individual gifts to residents, the idea was to redirect those funds to support struggling New Zealand families having to cut back on essentials.
Ryman residents were overwhelmingly in support of the idea, with many volunteering to help choose the gifts to fill over 1000 shoeboxes with thoughtful items.
Click read more for the full story.
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to … View moreKia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Hi Neighbours - I am hearing from many people saying they are exhausted at the end of 2024. It’s been a hard year for a lot of people. I hope you can find moments of peace in the runup to Christmas and the holiday season ☺
Mindfulness cultivates an attitude of being kind to ourselves, … View moreHi Neighbours - I am hearing from many people saying they are exhausted at the end of 2024. It’s been a hard year for a lot of people. I hope you can find moments of peace in the runup to Christmas and the holiday season ☺
Mindfulness cultivates an attitude of being kind to ourselves, noticing and regulating our stress patterns, which helps to reduce the path from stress to exhaustion.
If you would be interested in that, join our friendly small Meadowbank Mindfulness group next year. The sessions include gentle movement and relaxing simple meditation, and often the option for a chat and a cuppa too. With me, Eve Rudkin, registered teacher of Mindfulness-Based Stress-Reduction
3rd Monday of the month (except December!) 1.30-2.45. First time free, then Koha welcome. 0212551485 www.everudkinmindfulness.co.nz....
Click Read More to find out more about what I do - I also offer one-on-one sessions and custom courses for group bookings.
Does anyone know a good washing machine repairer who is also reasonably priced?
Thanks
Less than a week left to enter this merry competition.
With lots of spot prizes to win (as well as the title of NZ's Merriest Home), it's worth getting out your camera phone and taking a picture of your festive abode!
Check out the Christmassy homes here.
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It's that time again! We're doing our yearly collection for Auckland City Mission's "Auckland Angels" campaign and helping them bring the magic of Christmas to families in need. If you would like to donate you'll find our collection trolley by the reception area of … View moreIt's that time again! We're doing our yearly collection for Auckland City Mission's "Auckland Angels" campaign and helping them bring the magic of Christmas to families in need. If you would like to donate you'll find our collection trolley by the reception area of Parnell Community Centre or at the EFTPOS stand at @parnellfarmersmarket . Please drop your donations by 18 December 2024.
❓ What are we collecting?
• Christmas treats such as mince pies, biscuits and chocolate
• Tinned fruit and vegetables
• Baked beans, tinned soup and tinned spaghetti
• Tinned meat and fish
• Pasta sauce, pasta and rice
• Breakfast cereal and muesli bars
• Spreads, such as jam, peanut butter or honey
• Flour and sugar
• Baby food
• Nappies
• Toiletries, such as soap, shampoo, deodorant and feminine hygiene products
Donations of new, unwrapped gifts for children and teenagers are hugely appreciated. Please do not gift clothes as it is difficult to allocate sizes. No battery operated toys please!
For more information about the amazing work Auckland City Mission does around Christmastime, check out their webiste: www.aucklandcitymission.org.nz...
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