Wairarapa’s locally owned community newspaper
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2020
INSIDE: Meet the guardians of our precious land and wildlife P4-5
Charity brings cheer P3 ARE YOU A VIP CUSTOMER? Read ‘Garden Yarn’ on Page 9 to find out if you’re one of our
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Ali’s fostering young minds Life dedicated to empowering children Hayley Gastmeier Even though Ali Foster’s three kids are all grown up, she continues to dedicate her life to empowering children. In part, she does this through her books, which tell tales that teach of Wairarapa history along with messages that encourage kids to believe in themselves and “find the hero within”. Ali also works as a teacher aide at Wairarapa College and, quite fittingly – considering her existence revolves around younger generations – she lives on the site of the old Matahiwi School, west of Masterton. The school closed in the early 1970s, before being utilised by the Scout Association, and then later by what is now known as the Department of
Conservation. Ali and husband Garry have for 30 years lived on the 1ha property, where the old basketball court, bike shed, and monkey bars still remain. And on what was once the school playing field, they’ve created a food forest. “It’s always felt like the energy of the kids is still here,” Ali said. “I think that’s a big part of the property’s good feeling.” As far back as Ali can remember, she wanted to write children’s books. Now she’s had four picture books published, the most recent
was launched in April 2019, as well as a junior fantasy trilogy. But success didn’t come easily. Ali began her writing journey at age 15 and was re-inspired to pick up the pen when she had children of her own. It was a “hard road,” with her stories turned Continued on page 3
Masterton author Ali Foster with her children’s books. PHOTO/HAYLEY GASTMEIER
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