Hi Matua, Good article and idea which I think most good ordinary Kiwis would support. I would however put another very interesting perspective to you that was given to me by a lovely intelligent (Mensa level), young woman who works in a very high profile Maori environment and has really done her research on NZ's recent history. We were newly introduced and very soon after that we found each other comfortable to have an honest and open discussion on the topic of Maori/Pakeha 'Racism' in NZ as driven by vested politicians and Lame steam media . Our mutual view was that there is very little racism from either side in ordinary NZ where people have not just lived side by side for decades, but intermarried and formed deep bonds, both family and friends. Now this next bit is important...She preferred the word 'Settlers' rather than 'Colonials' because the ordinary people who arrived here from Europe were indeed settlers coming from generally horrible conditions in their native countries and looking for a better life which they found in NZ often with the engagement of local Maori. The settlers were generally hard working people whose aspiration was for a better life, not a power grab for resources and control, and this remains the same now. Yes, there are plenty of scumbag politicians, bureaucrats, and business people who do want control, but they are from all ethnic backgrounds and these are the fools against whom we should be united. This woman and I are now good friends and yes, she is Maori. Cheers Alan Yardley
Excellent list - kept for future reference. It's really sad that some Maori folk are unable to appreciate that they have the best of both worlds due to the generous dollop of Caucasian blood in their veins. They should rejoice in the many blessings their Pakeha tupuna introduced as per your list, while also enjoying their Maori cultural side and language minus the slavery, cannibalism and endless inter-tribal warring of former times. I have never ever encountered a Maori who was unfriendly or hostile to me - in fact they are the friendliest ethnic group in NZ as far as I am concerned, but if I ever meet a "radical" type, I will certainly remind them of the good side of colonialism.
Hi Matua, Good article and idea which I think most good ordinary Kiwis would support. I would however put another very interesting perspective to you that was given to me by a lovely intelligent (Mensa level), young woman who works in a very high profile Maori environment and has really done her research on NZ's recent history. We were newly introduced and very soon after that we found each other comfortable to have an honest and open discussion on the topic of Maori/Pakeha 'Racism' in NZ as driven by vested politicians and Lame steam media . Our mutual view was that there is very little racism from either side in ordinary NZ where people have not just lived side by side for decades, but intermarried and formed deep bonds, both family and friends. Now this next bit is important...She preferred the word 'Settlers' rather than 'Colonials' because the ordinary people who arrived here from Europe were indeed settlers coming from generally horrible conditions in their native countries and looking for a better life which they found in NZ often with the engagement of local Maori. The settlers were generally hard working people whose aspiration was for a better life, not a power grab for resources and control, and this remains the same now. Yes, there are plenty of scumbag politicians, bureaucrats, and business people who do want control, but they are from all ethnic backgrounds and these are the fools against whom we should be united. This woman and I are now good friends and yes, she is Maori. Cheers Alan Yardley
Exactly
Excellent list - kept for future reference. It's really sad that some Maori folk are unable to appreciate that they have the best of both worlds due to the generous dollop of Caucasian blood in their veins. They should rejoice in the many blessings their Pakeha tupuna introduced as per your list, while also enjoying their Maori cultural side and language minus the slavery, cannibalism and endless inter-tribal warring of former times. I have never ever encountered a Maori who was unfriendly or hostile to me - in fact they are the friendliest ethnic group in NZ as far as I am concerned, but if I ever meet a "radical" type, I will certainly remind them of the good side of colonialism.
Classic! (and bang on)
I'm sure they'll be talking about it on One News tonight!
Three cheers to that idea!