Poroporake Weihenga

The folk from Te Hauora O Te Hiku O Te Ika in Kaitaia, where I have been working for the past 5 months, welcomed and farewelled me in grand style. We stiff upper lipped poms could learn a lesson or two from the Maori. Singing, speeches and tucker - it's a great way to do things.

The welcome is called a pōwhiri. The farewell has two names poroporake and weihenga. The former it seems is more for the permanently departed. Some said see you at your poroporake and others at your weihenga - bit of a worry.

I loved it. Got the pleasure of being thanked and having my good points pointed out and also had the opportunity to say thank you to those who have been great to work with. Nothing like singing to enable a bit of contact with one's emotional life.

Really enjoyed my time with you all at Te Hauora O Te Hiku O Te Ika - thanks.
Anaru