Book review 

Progress – ten reasons to look forward to the future.

In a recent British survey 71% percent of those surveyed felt that the world had become worse rather than better. If you are one of such this book should be a must read for you. 

Swedish modern historian Johan Norberg will cheer you up. He has produced a very readable book covering ten social markers through which he traces the huge steps forward which have been achieved: food supply, sanitation, life expectancy, poverty, violence, literacy, freedom, equality and is now even being made in the environment.  

Facts and figures are from reliable sources , mainly United Nation’s departments. They are accompanied by clear graphs which enhance the dialog – this is not a heavy read. … Continue Reading

A Trailer Full of Fun!

Over $3,000 worth of brand new play equipment has been added to Sport Wellington Wairarapa’s Fun Play Trailer thanks to a Community Partnerships grant through the Health Promotion Agency.

As a shared resource for the early childhood centres/providers in Wairarapa, the under 5’s Fun Play Trailer was established in 2005 by Sport Wellington Wairarapa to help foster and develop the foundation and fundamental movement skills of children under five. It contains equipment that enables an environment for children to be set up which helps them learn and explore through physical activity – using equipment and resources that challenge and develop their cognitive growth. … Continue Reading

Community Board Notes

Firstly I would like to say how wonderful it was to see the community come together for DIY Marae, while I was not personally able to help out I have heard many great things about the event and can certainly say the Marae looks amazing, this is a huge asset to our community and a place for all to use. A huge thanks must go to all those involved in this.

I would also like to say how great it is to have seen so many put in a submission to the Council for the Long Term Plan, it is great that the community want input and we as a Community Board feel this is vital for the council.

It is also great to see the ‘dark sky’ friendly street lights now in place making looking at our night sky an even more special experience.

Fiona Beattie

Charlie and Maddie Represent NZ on World Hip Hop Stage

Charlie and Maddie Kerrison Jones of Pirinoa Primary aren’t your average year 7 and 8 students. Local Wellington dance champions and now national representatives, they’re part of a nine-member junior urban street dance crew (hip hop). Each week they travel between three and five times to the far side of Wellington city (Kilbirnie) to join their crew in rehearsing and finely tuning carefully choreographed routines.

Dancing since they could walk, Charlie and Maddie are highly accomplished in a number of different dance styles, and are a real focus of their highly successful junior hip hop crew, Recruits.  … Continue Reading