Monday, Oct 31, 2016
Since Sept 27, 1879
Retail $1.50 Home delivered from 95c
THE INDEPENDENT VOICE OF MID CANTERBURY
www.guardianonline.co.nz
Hakatere Marae komiti member Michelle Brett leads members of the Ashburton Muslim community in a powhiri on the marae.
PHOTO AMANDA KONYN 301016-AK-043
Muslim community welcomed onto marae BY MICHELLE NELSON
MICHELLE.N@THEGUARDIAN.CO.NZ
Allenton takes crown P24
In a melding of cultures, members of the Ashburton Muslim community have been officially welcomed onto the Hakatere Marae in a moving ceremony. The powhiri took place yesterday afternoon following a brief introduction into marae protocol. Hakatere Marae komiti member Michelle Brett acted as kaikarangi for the manuhiri, calling the visitors onto the marae, while Janet Benfell called for the tangata whenua (hosts). Once inside the marae dining room, traditional prayers were offered and songs sung from both parties.
Spokesmen from either side spoke of their beliefs and cultures and discovered many similarities. “We hope this meeting will help us to build a relationship between us on all levels,” Ashburton Muslim Association (AMAN) president Mohammed Diab said. The association has members from around 12 different nationalities, including Singapore, Ukraine, Egypt, Kenya and Pakistan, all working in different sectors in the district. “We are from different places and nationalities but we all share the same blood,” he said. “This is an important collaboration between all people. It is a
long-term collaboration, not just a oneoff, it is here for a lifetime. “You are the real people of this land, we are from far away, but whenever you want us, know we will be there for you, standing side by side.” Following hongi the traditions behind powhiri were explained to the guests, who were welcomed as members of the Hakatere community. The visitors then offered koha in the form of a Koran. After kai (food) was shared to lift tapu the men went to look at work taking place in the wharenui (meeting house) and the women discussed weaving and waita before the visitors were farewelled with poroporoaki.
THE HOME OF GOOD BAKING SOUTHERN PLAINS BREAD VARIETIES (Excludes Spicy Fruit)
HOT DEAL!
SALTED CARAMEL TRUFFLES 12pk
ONLY
CHEESE ROLLS 12pk
ONLY
1
Ph 03 307 7900 to subscribe!
ONLY
2
$ 99 EA
Open 7 Days 7.30am - 6.00pm 110 East St, Ashburton Ph: 03 308 8487
$ 99 EA
Promotional pricing available while stocks last from 31/10/16 to 06/11/16. Images are serving suggestions only.
www.couplands.co.nz Weather: High 18˚ - Overnight 1˚ Page 22
Puzzles: Page 21
Television: Page 23
Family Notices: Page 22
www.guardianonline.co.nz