Word from the Mayor
Autumn is bringing its usual amazing array of colour, this year is no exception with some parts of the garden roses remain in flower, bulbs are popping through the ground and trees are slowly losing their leaves this visual display highlights the complexity of nature.
Life is also complex as we reflect on ANZAC day and what it means to us as individuals. As New Zealanders gathered to mark ANZAC Day our attention turns to the courageous actions of our service personal, the sacrifices they have made across our history. We take time to remember the generations of servicemen and women who without guarantee of a safe return, left their homes and families for shores unknown. While we reflect on their experiences we can also give cause to consider the division that exists in our world today, the event in Ukraine is shocking and distressing, demonstrating the enduring act of war and conflict for every individual touched, are lives touched forever. Let us never forget the example of our servicemen and women and consider it our duty to uphold the legacy by continuing to stand against division and hatred and to strive for a peaceful future for all. We see that the human toll of conflict is not confined to the past, nor a single generation. Acts of war can show us humanity at its worst, however New Zealanders who served our country, have exhibited the best of human values, courage, compassion and the spirit of service.
Attendance across the district has been strong again this year given the more recent disruptions through the effect of Covid-19 over the past two years – I was privileged to speak at the Amberley Dawn service, and morning services at Omihi and Waipara. My thanks to all RSA personal and volunteer groups for the planning and preparation that is required in organizing this day of significance, thanks also to the buglers, pipers and the children from all contributing schools who participated in the services.
A delightful story has just unfolded – between Hawarden and Waikari plinths have been erected to recognize our fallen soldiers beside the oak trees and each year a poppy is attached, until now it has been a mystery who has undertaken this special task, a thoughtful ex resident of Hawarden visits to place the poppies one by one in remembrance. Thankyou Neroli I acknowledge your thoughtfulness.