Wellbeing symposium a first
To hear people having in-depth conversations during lunchtime on what Pio and Nix spoke about touched everyone’s hearts in some shape or form. Kaitaia Intermediate School principal Wayne Lunjevich
speak with anyone who might have had powerful emotions come to the surface.
“Our guest presenters all acknowledged how important this support was on the day,” Morrissey said.
“For three of our keynote presenters — Pio Terei, Nicola (Nix) Adams and Dr Hinemoa Elder — the day was about giving back to the community they have family ties to. All three have whānau connections to Te Rarawa,” he added.
“The other two, Ngahihi o te ra Bidois and Jase Te Patu, were both excited to be supporting the Kaitaia community at a time when we all need wellbeing practices more than ever, especially for our mental and emotional health.”
Kaitaia Intermediate School principal Wayne Lunjevich said the symposium had been a real success.
“The kaupapa of hauora o te hinengaro, o te tinana, o te wairua, o tenei ao hurihuri was definitely on top for everyone. I received positive feedback from everyone throughout the day on all presenters and what they covered in their presentations.
“To hear people having in-depth conversations during lunchtime on what Pio and Nix spoke about touched everyone’s hearts in some shape or form. The emotional impact it had on some of our audience was positive, and made people reflect on their own lives and situation. I even had some whānau leave the hall to seek support and advice from Te Ropu Kimiora.
“Thank you to all our principals, organisations and the MOE for your support in making this happen. This could be the start of something big which no doubt will impact Te Hiku as a whole.”
Another principal said: “It was a day of unity for me, and I’m thankful to all the schools that closed to take part, to the agencies that supported the day, the speakers who shared their heart, humour and knowledge. Thank you; my cup needed some serious filling, and I got it on Friday.”
Morrissey said the organising committee also wished to thank everyone who played a part in making the day a reality.
The organising committee would be meeting this week to discuss what to do next so the momentum would continue and spread.