Festivities here and abroad

Pride through success,
Honour through service.

It’s a motto a lot of people I know will have come across on a daily basis.
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At my old stomping ground, Taita College, there’s a sign with the TC crest and surrounded by the phrase near the entrance of the school as well as near the office building.

While not thinking much of it at the time, it’s almost fitting that I am now trying to adapt it to everything I do, including over herei n Raro.

The stories people tell – be it their fascinating background, a decision that changed their lives or something else – having pride through success and establishing honour through service is something I’m applying to work here.
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I swear I have met at least 60% of the Cook Islanders here on the island already after just five weeks here!

It’s crazy – in a good way – seeing people within the week and getting to meet them in a non-professional context. Places like the Punanga Nui market is fantastic for stuff like that, as is the local bar - yeow!
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This week the Constitution celebrations are in full swing. This place goes off annually with people from islands across the Cooks coming and showcasing their cultures.

For a lot of these guys it’s not just about coming and doing some dancing, singing and sampling the local cuisine.

People like Mitiaro elder Kahukura Kaiui see it as a chance to reconnect and showcase everything the Cook Islands has to offer.

“It’s so that all the islands can get together and show our cultures to everybody. Those who don’t know other styles to get to see all of our different styles.”

It’s been a damp affair so far – the float parade on Friday went ahead despite a fair bit of rain! – but the smiles and determination from the participants to carry was outstanding.
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As always, for @nokoroa, the club rugby wrap. News out is that the Takuvaine Reds have won two in a row, beating Tupapa in the weekend. Arorangi Cowboys lost to Avatiu Eels and the Ngatangiia Dragons got up over the Titikaveka Bulls!
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I’m thinking of sussing a flatwarming in the next couple of weeks (it’s been three weeks that i’ve been here now) and the only people who aren’t invited are Mr Huntsman Spider who I had the distinct dishonour of meeting on my second night here, and Mr Mouse who I see every night after work at home.

Geckos are more than welcome.
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As always, keen on feedback and/or suggestions for what you want to know or find out :)

Meitaki maata,
MW