Gisborne, The Centre With More Than Just Sunshine

MEDIA RELEASE
Date: 30 May 2003
Attention: Political/Education Reporters
For: Immediate Release

Gisborne, The Centre With More Than Just Sunshine Today

This afternoon will mark the opening of Te Hui Tauira where the Honourable Parekura Horomia will lead the Manuhiri on to Te Poho O Rawiri Marae in Gisborne. Maori Students, Staff, and sector representatives as well as members of the Gisborne community will make up the 250 plus attendees at this afternoon’s Powhiri.

Te Hui Tauira is being hosted by the Tairawhiti Polytechnic Students Association in association with the Aotearoa Tertiary Students Association (ATSA) and Te Roopu Tautoko-an advisory committee to ATSA on Maori issues.

“This year’s Hui focuses on whakawhanaungatanga,” said Rick Hapeta, chair of Te Roopu Tautoko. “That is, building and fostering a caring and supportive whanau environment so that students are relaxed and happy. Relaxed and happy students are more likely to succeed.”

“Education involves the whole whanau, It is important that participation at this Hui is broader than just students,” says Hapeta. “That is why we are proud to have the Minister and the Gisborne community supporting Te Hui Tauira and the advancement of tertiary education for Maori.”

“Consequently everyone is welcome and both tamariki and kaumatua will also be attending. For more information, visit the website www.eastcoast.net.nz.
No reira nau mai, haere mai ki tenei hui.

Naau te rourou
Naaku te rourou
Ka ora ai te iwi

ENDS
For further comment, contact:
Rick Hapeta
Te Roopu Tautoko Chairperson
Cell phone 025 909 800
Or
Julie Pettett
ATSA National President
Cell phone 029 939 1417 (04) 9391417

The Aotearoa Tertiary Students’ Association
Representing University, Polytechnic and Wananga students

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