by Noah Everard, Year 13 Student, Kaipara College
Let’s be honest, we are sick of hearing how cold it is. We all know, and knowledge is a curse. If I were to recall this past month, only a few things would spring to mind. Frequent deluges with a dash of power cuts gave us, at least us up South Head, a nice surprise. Sleeping with the rain is a comfort don’t get me wrong. But not knowing whether I have running water for tomorrow and thus, a guaranteed shower to wash off last night’s perspiration is a bit of an annoyance. Nevertheless, we persevere. Power cuts can be a blessing; providing the perfect excuse to demand an extension on an assignment. Every student knows the drill: plead to the teacher and say, “It’s not that I DIDN’T do my assignment. It’s that I COULDN’T do my assignment!” Works like a charm. Blame good ol’ power cut and… procrastinate some more.
Although the rain can be a comfort, it can be a curse. Most humans risk their lives an unnecessary amount everyday. Cars can kill, quicker than most. It could be the weather, an animal, another car or most likely yourself then BAM. Next minute you’re upside down in a ditch, airbag in your face, fumbling for your phone. I only discuss this grim topic due to the extraordinary number of crashes which have occurred in these recent rainy months. So for the sake of your life and others, expect the unexpected and take that corner a little slower.
The Helensville Market made a pleasant Sunday. Many of the regular vendors called it a “good day”. More customers were seen, and the outside stalls were left untouched by the hand of the wind. It was nice to see the Helensville community back in action, providing several locally sourced products for people to buy. My friend and I were successful in selling our produce to lots of friendly faces. Thank you to all those that supported us and allowed themselves to be hexed by our salesmanship (pestering), you will not be forgotten.
The month of June harbours not only rain and car crashes, but Aotearoa’s lunar new year. Matariki is the traditional Maori new year, with the official public holiday being on June 28, Friday. Matariki is a unique time. A cluster of nine stars can be seen at their most lucid on the month of the lunar new year. In Maori culture the seven brightest stars are named the ‘Seven Sisters’, a pinnacle point of Maori legend and culture. So get bundled up in some blankets and warm clothes and try to spot all nine of those twinkling beauties.