Nau Mai Piki Mai Newsletter of NZFMC

Please enjoy reading the national newsletter which has content about our work in Tairawhiti http://www.nzfmc.org.nz/assets/Uploads/Documents/NZFMC-Newsletter-Nau-Mai-Piki-Mai-Issue-2-Sep2013.pdf

Pacific Island Homework Support Program

Kia Ora Everyone Tomorrow evening from 6pm to 8pm at the weekly Pacific Islands homework support programme at EIT Tairawhiti Campus; we will be having Pizza shout for the students and their families. We will be putting on light supper for students, volunteers and families. Please do come along and celebrate 9 weeks of this programme(one whole term) Could not have been possible without dedication of people such as Lillian, Sue, Tiana, Maria,Manu, John, Vijen, Karen, Valerie, Ivan and many others Thanks Arish

Tairawhiti to host National Meeting of Multicultural Councils

NZFMC National Council Meeting - Gisborne The next national council meeting of NZFMC will be held in Gisborne from Friday 8th November 2013 to Sunday 10th November 2013 at the Te Poho O Rawiri Marae, Kaiti Gisborne This meeting will be hosted by Tarawhiti Multicultural Council For further information, please contact: NZFMC Secretary Alexis Lewgor National Secretary: Alexis LewGor PH: (07) 348-1762 MOBILE: 029-773-0269 EMAIL: nzfmcsecretary@gmail.com or President Tayo Agunlejika Phone: 04 916 9177 or 021 029 55148 EMAIL: president@nzfmc.org.nz www.nzfmc.org.nz For local enquiries please contact President, Arish Naresh or Secretary Hans Van Kregten at diversetairawhiti@gmail.com

Tairawhiti Interfaith Network Messages

At our monthly meeting the Interfaith group has decided to hold prayer meetings for the Week of Prayer for World Peace 13th – 20th of October. Tuesday October 15th, - 12:15 7 Victoria Street, 7th Day Adventist Church Wednesday October 16th, 1:00 – 1:30 Holy Trinity Church, Derby Street Thursday October 17th, 12:15 Botanical Gardens (meet at the Australian Gardens Roebuck Road end of the Park) Come along and join us in prayers for the peace of the world. We will be using the pamphlet and your personal thoughts and Prayers/Scriptural readings. Bob Hughes has agreed to write an article for the paper on our plans for that week. We hope that you will be able to participate in this event. John Giffin

MEDIA RELEASE 20/09/2013

TAIRAWHITI MULTICULTURAL COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE 20/09/13 DIVERSITY IS AN ASSET TO TAIRĀWHITI Local body election candidates have been quizzed by the newly formed Tairawhiti Multicultural Council about their views on cultural diversity. Council Chairman Arish Naresh says that all candidates are open to different ethnicities living in Tairawhiti. This is great. “The many cultures present in Tairawhiti add to the social, cultural and economic capital of this region and should be celebrated.” The responses of some candidates, such as Manu Caddie and Selwyn Parata reflected their involvement with multicultural communities and contained more detailed views on the benefits and issues of multiculturalism.” The survey showed that most candidates were open to dialogue regarding establishment of support for cultural groups. Brian Wilson suggested that greater engagement is needed with ethnic communities. Rehette Stoltz’s suggested the need for a “go to organisation” such as TMC for new migrants to create linkages with settled migrants. Arish Naresh says that this is one task the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council is keen to take on, but it would need resources to deliver this. Many candidates mentioned having different cultural dishes as part of celebrating diversity. “Culinary diversity adds spice to life, but the benefits of multiculturalism goes beyond food and dances”, Arish Naresh says. Migrants across New Zealand contribute greatly to economic growth of New Zealand. It provides local communities with global perspectives and contacts, which provides potential economic capital. In Tairawhiti and nationally many sectors of the economy including, hospitals and service industries rely heavily on the migrant workforce.” Many candidates have highlighted that there need to be more jobs to attract migrants to Gisborne. They also recognise there is a need for jobs for current migrants and locals. “The voters really would like to see an action plan on how jobs will be created not just for migrants but for people of all races, religions and cultures across Tairawhiti. A clear strategy to deliver jobs has not been provided by any candidate” Arish Naresh says. The Tairawhiti Multicultural Council does not believe in promoting any particular candidate. It is here to work with the people to achieve the best for everyone that live in our beautiful region. Detailed responses can be viewed at the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council’s website: http://tairawhitimulticulturalcouncil.blogspot.co.nz/ For queries and clarifications contact: Arish Naresh- President Tairawhiti Multicultural Council Ph.: 0226248145 Email: diversetairawhiti@gmail.com

Responses from Tutekawa Wyllie

Cultural diversity begins at home. Understanding myself helps me to try to understand others. At the heart is my culture of which language is the cornerstone. I try to understand others as I understand myself The GDC effort to appreciating culture diversity starts with tangata whenua. This is a bicultural nation which provides the foundation upon which cultural diversity should build a future. From there the building blocks I have worked and visited many countries, particularly Asia. I try to learn some basic language and customs of each. I took a basic course in Mandarin language and learn that trying is appreciated . Maori and Asian cultures place the family at the heart of the culture There will always be challenges in a community that essentially converses in English only. The global village we live in requires us all to learn at least one other language. My experience is Maori should speak their own language and learn at least the basics of Mandarin The biggest opportunities are in business built upon the fundamentals of family culture and succession planning. Money is simply a means to an end. There is no end as long as there is family

Responses from Alan Hall

I STRONGLY BELIEVE THAT CULTURAL DIVERSITY SHOULD BE ENCOURAGED. DIVERSITY MEANS THAT OUR COMMUNITY BENEFITS FROM THE MIX OF CULTURES HERE, FOR EXAMPLE IN CULTURAL ACTIVITIES, IN CUISINE, AND IT MAKES FOR A MORE INTERESTING COMMUNITY FOR ALL. 2this largely depends on what T. M. C would like. A discussion with the Community service people at the council would be a first step. 3Ihave contact with Maori and when I was a solicitor frequent contact with the local pacific island community. My wife, Pamela and I are frequent visitors to Just thai andPreet INDIAN RESTAURANTS. 4 We are A SMALLTOWN REALLY AND some may have difficulty fitting in, because of their small numbers 5 I strongly believe that N.Z should increase the annual number of refugees permitted so that more come to the regions . There must be work for them here of course. The welcome from their own culture group is important too. Thanks for inviting me to participate in the questions. Allan Hall

Responses from Peter Jones

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? If you live in Gisborne I don't care where you came from you are one of us with the same rights as everyone else. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? If you want money from me you are crash out of luck. I want to see council money being spent on job creation in the district rather than social initiatives. My approach will benefit all local residents including all cultural groups. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? I am helping my partner's maori whanau to build a whare on their ancestral land at Whakaki and hope to help them grow kumaras there. I helped my Islander neighbour by cleaning up his trees for no charge the other week and I consider he and his wife to be my friends. I employed Indian workers in my forestry crew when I was doing that. One of them (Hari)was a top man. My brother married a Chinese girl and I attended the wedding in Shanghai. They are expecting a baby soon. My father left my mother for a maori woman. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? They are often not very environmentally aware and need more schooling on things like taking undersize seafood. Apart from things like that they are no different to the rest of us though some of the young men are pretty good at marrying the local maori girls to get permanent residence instead of love.heh heh. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? As far as I'm concerned I don't want to attract any new immigrants of any kind. Especially English,Chinese,Americans,and Indians. Islanders are OK but the Asians are too greedy like the English. The Chinese treat their own people like shit and think they can come here and do the same to us. If you live here already you are my brother and I will do my best for you. If you are saving up for tickets for your extended family you should have stayed in Auckland. This is Gisborne not Auckland so go mess up Auckland if you want to bring your Bros. I hope that answers your queries Naresh. I hate the United Nations. I think Global citizens suck. If you live here now you are my brother and I am happy to know you and be your friend. If you try to screw up Gisborne till its like where you came from like what I saw in six years living in Sydney then I will be your enemy. Is that plain enough for you. You sound like a Manu Caddie man to me just by the tone of your questions. Kind Regards, Peter Jones.

Responses from Brian Wilson

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? My vision is a city and district that celebrates the many different cultures that we now have. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? One of the requirements for GDC is to consult with our community. We have become better at that and now actively engage community groups such as Etu Elgin and Kapai Kati. A concern for ethnic minority groups is disenfranchisement. To counter that the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council could become the conduit for GDC engagement with these minority groups. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? As I have been to many different countries I value the diversity of the world’s people. I am married to a Czech national, have many friends that are Maori and have other friends that include British, Indian, Dutch, South African, Vietnamese, Indonesian,Canadian,Italian and others. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? The obvious common challenge is acceptance of the different cultures. While I myself totally embrace other cultures, this may not be so with others. GDC in all its dealing with these groups should lead by example. I have attended a number of citizenship ceremonies and am always proud how new citizens are given a warm welcome. In all our dealings the Council should promote the concept of tolerance and friendship no matter what a person’s ethnic origins. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? To attract new people may be done most efficiently through contacts with those already here. However I do not advocate a wholesale promotion to bring in large numbers at this time. This region has many challenges including high unemployment and low social economic statistics. If no jobs are available for new immigrants it would seem a futile exercise at the moment.

Responses from Trevor Helson

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity?I have no specific view or vision but I would welcome with open arms people from all nations into our community on the understanding that they are genuinely wanting to become part of the community themselves. I think they add much to our community and bring some wonderful ideas. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council?The GDC already gives support to many groups, one of which I am a trustee for and was the chair, is the Safe Tairawhiti Community Trust. The Tairawhiti Multicultural Council can work with groups such as this or if properly organised receive assistance directly. I see from your web site that one of your objectives is to work with GDC to provide a safer community for your people. The STCT would be an ideal vehicle for achieving that. The GDC is always willing to receive deputations with good ideas that contribute to the overall benefit of the community. It doesn’t have a lot of money to dish out but often that is not what is needed, support can be given in many ways. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? I really don’t take much notice of what the ethnicity is of the people I interact with. They are all people and I just get on with working within the community. I lived in Singapore for many years, spent time in India, Hong Kong etc. so am very aware of some of the cultural differences. It is human nature to like some people you meet and to not be so keen on others. For me where they come from is irrelevant, in fact I sometimes am in awe of people who have for whatever reason given up everything and moved to a new country. That is a brave step and I have to admire people who can do it. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? The Gisborne region is not doing well economically, that makes it hard for any new people who are making a new start irrespective of where they come from, whether that be Christchurch or Mumbai. I have not detected any overt racialism but I would be silly to think it doesn’t exist. Personally I don’t have that as a problem but I do know people who are biased and I think they are the losers for it. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? This is very difficult, on the one hand we are competing with Auckland for getting people to settle here and we don’t have all that many jobs to offer. We have a great environment but that is not enough on its own. There has to be an economic basis otherwise new comers will not do well. What I do believe is that the District Council needs to make it easier for businesses to operate, this is not new businesses, it is the existing ones. If there were more certainty then companies will be more willing to take on more staff. Immigrants who bring skills could well benefit from that.

Responses from Steve Scragg

Kia Orana Arish Thank you for the opportunity to reply to your questions below. I would appreciate knowing more about your council as i have never heard for you before and had no contact from your council in the 2010 election. 1. I see Tairawhiti currently as a multi culture society its as simple as that, We have diversity here already and i believe its a good thing we can all learn from each other. I don’t have a vision as such as its a fluid and evolving thing. Dependant on the central governments policy and world events. 2. I would need to know more about your council before i would comment and or commit to support. 3. I have daily contact with abroad mix of ethnic groups due to my works. 4. Acceptance of change to society is the biggest challenge for local residents, without the acceptance we end up with bigotry and racism. 5. To be bluntly honest we need a improving economy so we can offer jobs and business opatuitys in the region, before we can expect and increase in new residents. I personally don't see that continuing to call oneself a new immigrant and or refugee as helpful. Once your a resident is it not better to call yourself a resident? B calling a person a new immigrant or refugee all we do is put up a further barrier, We all need to fit in and get along. Keeping ones self identity and culture is very important but we all need to get on with the job and paddle this Waka in the same direction. Steve Scragg

Responses from Larry Foster

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? I support any cultures wanting to live in Gisborne to embrace our lifestyle and community connectivity. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? I see the roll of GDC as a facilitator to encourage the integration of cultural groups into our society. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? I surf and play golf with other cultures. I am a retailer so have regular contact with immigrants. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? Trying to understand their speaking in english. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne?Our lifestyle, friendly community and productive spacious land helps to attract immigrants to Gisborne.

Responses from Andy Cranston

Hi Arish, Thank you for the opportunity. I am extremely comfortable with Gisborne developing as a diverse culture. I really enjoy the contribution of the current diversity we are enjoying. I am very aware through the Citizenship ceremonies many cultures our great place is attracting. This is enriching Gisborne. My vision is that we continue to be welcoming and accepting and the growth and development of Gisborne advantages all cultures equally. Firstly we ensure that the Council as an organisation is and remains absolutely non discriminatory. We should recognise the benefits and wealth of being a diverse culture and not unfairly favour any one cultural group over another. As chair of the Creative Communities Grants committee I have been pleased to see applications for funding come through from a range of Cultures and I believe we have been supportive to many in distributing grant funding for the benefit of the “fringe” cultures Most of that support has been for programmes which showcase the richness of those cultures to the wider public. 3. As Chair of Community Development I like to see use of the Public Forum section of our monthly meetings made available to any Community focused discussion and often this is a presentation from a cultural sector. I love to hear what is going on and as these are public meetings attended by the press this is often an opportunity for organisations to to promote and educate our populace, which supports your mission. I have travelled really extensively throughout the world and lived in several cultures and I try to see things from the perspective of others. 4 We (as a community) are still a way from absolute acceptance of other cultures. This of course is an international problem. One of the biggest threats is always those (minority I hope) with no sympathy or understanding being antisocial or discriminatory against cultures other than their own which leads to mistrust. As I believe we have responsibilities to be enabling a safer community, we must always be diligent with this responsibility and fight discrimination. 5 We must grow and develop Tairawhiti as a fantastic place to live work and play. Our biggest issue is jobs. The best attraction is the opportunity offered through being able to provide those jobs that attract a diverse and vibrant culture. We must be welcoming and supportive. A big driver here will be the positive experiences and satisfaction of those already settled here and their feedback to friends and relatives not yet resettled. Doing everything we can to guarantee a high level of satisfaction in their news homes will be a significant driver Thank you for the opportunity to address your questions. Kind regards Andy Cranston

Responses from Craig Bauld

Dear Arish Nanesh, I have to admit that I don't actually spend a lot of time thinking about cultural diversity, though my circle of acquaintanceship is wide and includes all sorts. I don't want to insult you by writing a lot of election bullshit trying to prove anything, but your email has set me thinking, wondering if I should be taking more notice. Is there a big issue in Gisborne? Is it mainly a young people thing? I'd be interested to hear more. Cheers, Craig Bauld

Gary Hope's responses

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? A multi- cultural community where everyone is respected equally. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? Maybe a Welcome to Gisborne Orientation pack or programme where new immigrants can feel welcomed and informed of vital services offered to our citizens. Recognition and links to other organizations that could help them adjust to our new environment. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? We often employ different ethnicities in our farming and forest businesses, and have been impressed with their positive work attitude and ethics. On a personal level we regularly host visitors from other cultures, and enjoy overseas travel and discovering cultures different to ours. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? Finding good affordable housing and meaningful employment can be difficult. The isolation and access to traditional foods is also a challenge. Along with a lack of understanding of their various cultures and background. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? A broader employment base and cultural enrichment of our society.

Responses from Selwyn Parata

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity?!!!To be proud of our rich cultural heritage and uniqueness while celebrating our diversity. Gisborne and Tairawhiti people value their own culture and heritage and respect the culture and heritage of others . Cultural acceptance and tolerance is the norm in Tairawhiti. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council? We need to support events that enable people to practice and affirm their own culture and heritage and provide opportunities for other cultural groups to participate and learn. Two very practical improvements that we could make would be to; i. create an Annual Gisborne and District Events Calendar, that highlights and promotes a range of cultural and ethnic events, in the way that the Wine & Food Festival is promoted and highlighted. ii. Eastland Tourism and the proposed Tairawhiti Economic Development Agency take proactive steps to inform themselves of the range of cultural events that occur throughout the year and work with organisations such as the Tairawhiti Cultural Development Trust and the Tairawhiti Multi-Cultural Council to promote these events and attract funding 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? As a member of the Tairawhiti Cultural Development Trust I have an intimate understanding and knowledge of the aspirations and challenges that face cultural groups seeking to promote themselves and their culture in Tairawhiti. As an active Iwi Leader and as the Chairperson of Te Matatini (the National Maori Performing Arts Committee), I regularly attend regional, national and international cultural exchanges and events that provide me with exposure to different cultures and ethnic groups. My general awareness and appreciation for the relevance of cultural protocols and etiquette ensures that I prepare myself appropriately for these occasions and therein I am able to behave appropriately and respectful in all such situations. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? As a member of a minority group, albeit that we are the indigenous people of this country, that has endured over many generations personal and institutional racism and attempts to undermine our culture and language, I would think that ethnic minority groups in Tairawhiti would and do face similar challenges 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? The main attractions for new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne are family, work and lifestyle. Noho ora mai, Selwyn Tanetoa Parata

Manu Caddie's responses

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? That all Gisborne people can feel proud of their unique cultural heritage and honoured for the diversity they bring to our community. Gisborne could show other regions how to support the exchange and sharing of diverse cultural backgrounds in a way that enriches our town. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council?As part of GDC cultural responsiveness it could utilise the TMC to be a liaison network with community. GDC would then benefit from investing in the Council by providing administration support and resources. The Council could discuss further with GDC how it might like to have input into Council discussions. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own?I have worked on aid and development programmes in Asia, Africa and the South Pacific but most of my work has been here in Gisborne and mostly within the Māori community. While I have Tongan whakapapa, my upbringing was pretty middle-class Pākehā – though I did spend a lot of time at marae, in hui and kapahaka as a child. Marrying a woman from Ngāti Porou and coming to live here has meant I have a direct family connection to mana whenua and have immersed myself in the culture of Māori communities both in Gisborne and on the Coast where we are intimately involved with a whānau marae. My wife and I have only ever spoken Te Reo Māori to our children and we're committed to them being educated and socialised in Te Reo as well as the exposure they have everywhere to English. So we understand something of the struggle people from minority linguistic, religious and ethnic communities have to endure in this Anglo-Saxon dominated society. I have been a founding member of the Tairāwhiti Inter-Faith Network and more recently the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council – both are small but important networks that encourage people from diverse backgrounds to come together for the common good. I’m regularly invited to Tongan and Pacific Island community events and recently participated in discussions around the establishment of a local consortium of Pasifika peoples focused on Whānau Ora initiatives for Tairāwhiti. I have supported migrants with immigration issues and negotiated on their behalf with immigration officials and lawyers. I have helped organise multicultural community events that bring people from diverse cultural backgrounds together in our neighbourhoods. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? Negative stereotypes are still around. Such unfair stereotyping of any group can detract from the community as a whole being able to draw from the energy and contributions a group can make. There are still some groups over-represented in crime and educational failure and under-represented in business leadership and educational success. Initiatives like the Tongan Homework Support Programme utilising local volunteers and working with the students while the parents learn English at EIT is an exciting community-based response to do something about this situation. Some particularly new to New Zealand arrivals can often feel isolated so strengthening community connections for those families is important. Also there needs to be support for ethnic minority groups to be able to feel that they have a home in our city and can adapt in ways that are useful to them, while also maintaining their own culture. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne?As a city if we genuinely aspire towards sustainable solutions to the challenges that ethnic minorities face, this may attract their talents to our region. There are opportunities to ask the Government to consider resettling some refugees here as they settled Burmese refugees in Nelson ten years ago. There are also a number of local businesses that rely on migrant workers – not only in low-skilled horticultural work but high tech positions like computer programming and materials technology. I met a PhD from Bangladesh who was working at Pultron and subsequently head-hunted by a company in Melbourne – he had some awesome ideas about developing composite materials from flax fibre here.If Gisborne can show that it celebrates diversity and wants to involve ethnic groups in meaningful discussions on relevant issues – this would enhance the decision making process of GDC. Ngā mihi,Manu.

Meng Foons Responses

Gisborne/Eastcoast is blessed to be multicultural, our relationships have developed over a period of time and through listening and mutual respect we tend to get more out of our current and long term relationships. Did captain cook ever think that a Chinese person would be mayor, or that a Spanish sailor in 1860’s have 5 Maori Eastcoast wives and now have a large whanau of 20k We have many types of restaurants, people marrying different ethnicities as love has no boundaries. I am proud to me the mayor of a multicultural community, we now have about 83 different ethnicities. Many are in professional and business jobs, this diversity has bought much needed skills to our region and our community appreciates this I look forward to the day that we are live as one people, with different beliefs and cultures, eat different foods, celebrate different ceremonies, love Tairawhiti. We are one and one for all. Kia ora Meng Foon | Mayor| Gisborne District Council

Responses- Meredith Akuhata-Brown

What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? My vision for Gisborne regarding cultural diversity is that we are better informed of the diverse cultures living here and we take the time to meet with these diverse cultures and ensure we are culturally competent and more inclusive we also provide a space for positive engagements where we promote tolerance, open-mindedness, respect for difference and other’s values. We need to celebrate diversity through cultural festivals and the arts. Provide connections to our heritage through the involvement of all ethnic communities in historic, cultural and natural conservation initiatives and events. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? It is important that the GDC honor what they promise and so when we have it in the ten year plan to support the development of cultural groups we need to ensure we follow through. There needs to be more opportunities to learn about people from other cultures in New Zealand, and local government has an important influencing role to help establish or facilitate frameworks to aid social cohesion. Space needs to be given to the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council where they can share their views and keep council up to date with what is happening in the lives of the diverse groups represented in the community. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? I personally have met with many people from the Pacifica including Samoan, Tongan and Fijian. I have attended many events that the Pacifica community have organized and have enjoyed a positive relationship with other cultural groups from South Africa and the Philippines. I have met with the interfaith group on a couple of occasions and enjoyed hearing what is happening in their different worlds. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? There are difficulties in settling into New Zealand society - with the language, with kiwi customs and culture. Some of the ethic groups struggle with people’s perceptions of them especially those from Arab nations, Pacifica people tend to keep connected to their church and families and often there are not enough opportunities to meet to foster understanding and support social cohesion. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? Gisborne’s attraction is around the lifestyle you can create in a smaller city where new immigrants don’t have to commute for hours every day. If you are looking for more leisure time, proximity to spare time activities, good schooling for their children, a safe and stable society and also a good quality of life and costs of living that aren’t too high then Gisborne is that place. Of course local government needs to ensue the cost of living is affordable for those who are considering moving here. Gisborne welcomes business entrepreneurs and those that want to look into innovation around home based businesses. Existing workplace infrastructure welcomes people with the skills to operate machinery work outdoors in the horticulture, viticulture and farming industry and also in our forestry sector. There are a number of café’s and eateries that have opened in the city that different cultural groups have created, I feel that there is still room for more of these businesses. The sunshine and beaches make Gisborne an opportune place for tourism ideas also, I would love to see more bicycle scenic tours and other tourist attractions open up here.

Rehette Stoltz Responses

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? I love the fact that we already have so many different cultures living together here in the Tairawhiti! I would love to see us grow that even more. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? I would think the same kind of support like most community groups receive at this stage - availability of meeting rooms, some 'in-kind' assistance, ect. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? Being an immigrant myself, I am blessed with a diverse group of friends from many different cultures, like Somalia, England, Zimbabwe, Sweden, America, New Zealand, France. 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? It takes some time (it can be years!) to find your feet in a new country, and most new immigrants feel overwhelmed with their new environment and way of life. Personally, we were very lucky to have met friends from South Africa who moved here a couple of years before us, so they helped us a lot with practical information and help. Having a "go-to" organisation (like Tairawhiti Multicultural Council) that could introduce new immigrants to settled immigrants who could offer practical help and advise, will be a neat way to assist. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? Having working opportunities available is always a good way to attract new people to town. Helping/assisting new immigrants and refugees to settle into the Gisborne lifestyle would help make sure that they stay here, become part of our society and eventually call Gisborne home :)

Responses from Katie Tamanui-Thomas

1.What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? I believe we should take advantage of and celebrate the cultural diversity of our community. Promoting tolerance, open mindedness, respect for differences and other peoples’ values is the responsibility of all groups. By creating more opportunities to learn about people from other cultures and to help connect the diverse communities together, I believe, will result in better social cohesion. While this might be my vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity, I think the real question should be, “what is your vision, the vision of the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council, for cultural diversity in this region. Once that vision is realised then it’s about how we work together to create the physical manifestation of that. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? I believe that central and local governments have an important and influencing role to help establish or facilitate a framework to aid social cohesion. Working together rather than in isolation should be the ideal way moving forward. That might mean putting together an advisory body to promote open discussions about the kind of support that the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council might seek from the City Councillors. Action begins with open and frank dialogue kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face) interactions. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? In 2001 we lived in Rarotonga where I was employed as a teacher at Titikaveka College and my husband was one of the accountants at the Rarotongan Beach and Spa Resort. This was an easy transition for us with language, food and living conditions very similar to Aotearoa/New Zealand. The opposite was experienced, however, while living in Northern Thailand where the language barrier prevented us from fully participating in the community outside of the International School. It was difficult to complete simple tasks like shopping, ordering in restaurants and finding our way around the city. However, the excitement of experiencing new and different cultures didn’t stop us from travelling through most of Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore. We have visited Australia and Fiji and recently returned from a 10 day holiday in Bali. We also own a motel so we are interacting with the different cultures that venture through our doors. . 4. What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? I think the language barrier and kiwi culture are challenging factors that can make settlement in Aotearoa/New Zealand very difficult. Racism and discrimination, while not talked about openly, is a systemic issue and highlighted only when the media brings it to our attention. Meanwhile many cases of racism and discrimination are probably taken in silence. The price of mainstream acceptance in Aotearoa/New Zealand for our minority groups is a high one. For example I have heard of cases where a person has the experience and qualifications to do the job effectively but they are still required to prove themselves. I think the worst situation that any person can face is having assimilation forced upon them and being made to feel that they had no other choice but to give up their culture in order to be accepted into mainstream. This is absolutely unacceptable. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? The future for a sustainable and vibrant Gisborne lies in attracting people to our district. In a recent presentation made to a Council conference, it was stated that many of the smaller districts would not survive once the baby boomer cohort retired. This would leave a dwindling population that would not be able to sustain the rates required to service this area. The stress on Councils to future proof their community was stated so I believe that the opportunities to attract new immigrants to sustain our communities is a real option. Thank you for the opportunity to present some of my ideas regarding multiculturalism in Gisborne. Naku noa Katie Tamanui-Thomas Standing for Council and the Hospital Board Supported by Accommodation Ahi Kaa 61 Salisbury Road Gisborne www.ahikaa.co.nz 06 8677107 Email info@ahikaa.co.nz

Responses from Tina Karaitiana

Q1 What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? That the cultural makeup of Tairawhiti region signals to New Zealand and the world that we embrace and respect diversity and the inclusion of other ethnicities with cultural differences are viewed as positive enhancements to our community fabric. Q2 The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairāwhiti Multicultural Council? That they continue to lend their support as advocates of cultural diversity and work with and alongside ethnic groups to achieve their goals and aspirations to becoming citizens of Tairawhiti and New Zealand. Q3 What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? For many years I have had regular interaction with other ethnicities through my involvement with sporting, social, community, health and education organisations and also with the blending of DNA amongst whanau. Q4 What, if any, common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups. The one comment that resonates amongst the community is they would like to see an effort made by ethnic groups to integrate with other cultures other than their own. I suspect this will help change negative perceptions of these minority groups and also support the transitioning to becoming citizens of Tairawhiti and New Zealand. Q5 What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? The key opportunities I see are new immigrants and refugees provide other lenses in which to look through to support economic advancement, business creation as well as providing a global insight to community development and environmental considerations.

Responses from Nguha Huirama-Patuwai

Statement to the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council. 1. What is your vision for Gisborne in terms of cultural diversity? I think that it is important to celebrate the different cultures that are represented in the Gisborne-Tairawhiti region. It would be good to organise a place where people can meet on a regular basis and also to celebrate this diversity at times when it is important for each culture. I think that there should be a cultural events calendar for every year and an invitation to different groups to contribute to it. More importantly, I think that it is important for each group to tell us what they would like from the GDC. A person’s identity is important and their culture is by far the most important value in their life. 2. The Ten Year Plan says GDC will support the development of cultural groups in the district, what kind of support do you think GDC should provide to the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council? I think the GDC should provide a centre for the Tairawhiti Multicultural Council where different cultures have access to it as a meeting place. I also think that the GDCshould subsidise cultural events throughout the year for these groups and promote it as a, ‘Unity within Diversity’ moment for all of us to celebrate. I would like to see radio and television playing a part in helping cultures maintain their identity and communication with one another. 3. What regular interaction do you have with groups of people from cultural backgrounds different to your own? The East Coast is different from Gisborne because it is 90% Maori with European New Zealanders making up the 10% difference. I have spent over 20 years in Auckland which is by far the most culturally diverse city in Aotearoa-New Zealand. My background with cultures have been Pakeha, Maori and Polynesian but I also know that some 120 cultures or so are now represented in Aotearoa-New Zealand and this adds another dimension to living in our society. I have an appreciation of Polynesian languages and other European ones. As a possible future mayor of Gisborne-Tairawhiti, I would make a point of reaching out to other cultures because I would be based in Gisborne. 4. What if any common challenges are you aware of for local residents from ethnic minority groups? I think that it depends on which ethnic minority group one is from. Aotearoa-New Zealand is use to people coming from the Pacific or Australia, England, Ireland, France, Spain and Italy but we also have people lumped together and called, ‘Asian’ and other countries that have not been part of the. ‘tradition’ of immigration to NZ. What we need for GIsborne-Tairawhiti is the creation of cultural ambassadors (perhaps one or two people) whose job would be to ensure that people from other cultures are welcomed and helped in their settling down time. Different types of racism exists, even in the Gisborne-Tairawhiti region and this can be stressful for some families. Language and cultural practices could also be alienating for some. The TMC and it’s members can help improve the outcomes for new families. 5. What are the biggest opportunities you see for attracting new immigrants and refugees to Gisborne? Housing is more affordable in the provinces. It is a lot cheaper than the cities, but even so, it would be costly for some families. There are business and work opportunities here, but the focus still needs to be on the people and the resource that it is. New families are looking for a safer, healthier and wealthier place to bring up their children. This can happen here if we work together. Heoi ano, Kia ora ano tatou katoa, Te Nguha Huirama-Patuwai Candidate for the mayoralty of GDC Gisborne-Tairawhiti and councillor for Matakaoa-Waiapu Ward.

Kia Ora and Welcome

Welcome to Tairawhiti Multicultural Councils Blog Page I will be posting the responses to the questions sent out to all local body election candidates. All candidates were contacted that had a email address listed with Gisborne District Council. Tairawhiti Multicultural Council does not endorse any candidate for the upcoming election but supports anyone that believes in fostering diversity and creating more inclusiveness within different ethnic and cultural groups in Tairawhiti. The responses have been copied and pasted directly with no alterations made. For any queries and clarifications please contact TMC President Arish Naresh via email: diversetairawhiti@gmail.com Many Thanks Arish Naresh Preisdent Tairawhiti Multicultural Council