Latest news with #Manurewa
Scoop
3 days ago
- General
- Scoop
Samoa Language Celebration 'Like White Sunday'
Grace Tinetali-Fiavaai, RNZ Pacific Journalist A student-led church service at Auckland's Papatoetoe High School celebrated the beginning of Samoan Language Week in Aotearoa. High school students have celebrated Samoan Language Week by showcasing their cultural heritage through Bible readings, prayers, singing, and dancing. Papatoetoe high school Samoan language teacher and dean, Timo Morisa, said the event was "stellar". "It felt like I was in a white Sunday service," he said. "If you think about when our Samoan communities celebrate white Sunday - you've got the decorations, you've got the amazing performances, you've got the vibrance; we also had all this food that was prepared." Morisa said it was "bigger than just the importance of the service and the opening". "There are so many defining teaching points that we are handing over to the students that are coming," he said. "One of the other, just kind of side note things, was after the ceremony, kids were in the car park - like Manurewa kids and Papatoe kids and Alfreston kids, and they were just connecting and talking and chatting. And I think that relationship building is so important." He said one of the chiefs of Samoan language in Aotearoa, Tauanu'u Tapu gave an emotional speech. "He said: 'In 10 years and 20 years and 50 years, where will our language and our culture be? And it is our responsibility." Secretary for Fotu o Malamalama Lemoa Henry Fesulua'i said parents shouldn't rely only on education systems. "Most of the time your children are right in front of you," he said. "That's the most important thing - that you're normalizing being Samoan in the home, so when they do leave the home, there's other accessibility and support in schools and churches and in various communities."
Scoop
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Game Of Loans: Libraries Lend Out Board Games
Article – Mary Afemata – Local Democracy Reporter This week, 10 Auckland libraries, including Manurewa, Papatoetoe, and Mngere Bridge, launched a free board games lending service for adults. Libraries are stepping up their game – literally. This week, 10 Auckland libraries, including Manurewa, Papatoetoe, and Māngere Bridge, launched a free board games lending service for adults. It's part of a push to re-engage young adults and make libraries more social, inclusive, and fun. Chair of the Ōtara Papatoetoe local board, Apulu Reece Autagavaia, says it's an amazing initiative. 'Many of our Pacific communities have traditions of playing board games and the like, including mū or Samoan checkers. 'Card games and dominoes are also played throughout the Pacific. These games are fun and interactive, but also develop skills and strategic thinking.' Cardholders can borrow board games for free. Each person can borrow one game at a time for up to two weeks. Torisse Laulu, founder of Lalaga Card Games, says it's an 'incredible' idea. 'It's so brilliant, honestly,' she says. She believes the move is progressive and could foster deeper, real-world connections in an increasingly digital age. Laulu says screen time has taken over much of daily life, affecting how people relate to one another, and that board games could help reverse that. '[Screen time] plays such a big role in stopping real-life interactions and connections. So if … we can use board games and find more spaces to connect outside of that and in real life, I think it's nice to revert back to what makes us innately human.' she says. The pilot is part of Auckland Council's push to use libraries as community hubs that promote social connection, mental stimulation and affordable fun. Catherine Leonard, Head of Library and Learning Services for Auckland Council, says the motivation behind piloting a board game lending collection comes from the libraries seeking innovative collections. 'National and international data shows a clear trend of libraries diversifying their collections, and communities seeking new kinds of engagement with libraries. After hearing about other library systems offering lending board games collections, we were inspired to investigate a collection of our own,' she says. 'Board games offer Aucklanders a free, sustainable and technology-free entertainment option. A borrowable library collection is fantastic for those living in dwellings with limited storage space for their own board game collection.' Designed for adults, Leonard says that international trends showed strong growth in board game use among 20 to 30-year-olds. 'As this is a demographic that we see less frequently in our libraries, the decision was made to target our pilot collection at this age group, with the collection available for borrowing for any customer aged 18+.' The pilot games were chosen for their popularity, repeat playability, and appeal to a wide range of interests and group sizes. She says most importantly, playing board games brings people together. 'They present us with an opportunity to build relationships with friends and family in real life.' Borrowing a board game Cardholders must be 18 or older to borrow from the board game collection. There are no late fees. Borrowers must ensure all pieces are carefully returned in their original packaging. Games must be returned to the front desk at any Auckland library branch, not through the returns chute, as staff need to check for missing or damaged items. This may incur a fine. Locations to browse games Board games are only available at the following libraries: Botany, Central City, East Coast Bays, Glenfield, Māngere Bridge, Manurewa, Mt Albert, Onehunga, Papatoetoe War Memorial, and Waitākere Central (Henderson). Pilot and 12 month review [SUB] The pilot's success will be evaluated on checkouts by the target audience, turnover rates, and customer feedback on both the collection and related programmes. A formal review will take place 12 months after launch, with potential expansion to more libraries, additional game titles, and broader age groups considered. Each of the 10 pilot branches holds 10 different game titles. Games are reservable across the region.
Scoop
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Game Of Loans: Libraries Lend Out Board Games
Article – Mary Afemata – Local Democracy Reporter Libraries are stepping up their game – literally. This week, 10 Auckland libraries, including Manurewa, Papatoetoe, and Māngere Bridge, launched a free board games lending service for adults. It's part of a push to re-engage young adults and make libraries more social, inclusive, and fun. Chair of the Ōtara Papatoetoe local board, Apulu Reece Autagavaia, says it's an amazing initiative. 'Many of our Pacific communities have traditions of playing board games and the like, including mū or Samoan checkers. 'Card games and dominoes are also played throughout the Pacific. These games are fun and interactive, but also develop skills and strategic thinking.' Cardholders can borrow board games for free. Each person can borrow one game at a time for up to two weeks. Torisse Laulu, founder of Lalaga Card Games, says it's an 'incredible' idea. 'It's so brilliant, honestly,' she says. She believes the move is progressive and could foster deeper, real-world connections in an increasingly digital age. Laulu says screen time has taken over much of daily life, affecting how people relate to one another, and that board games could help reverse that. '[Screen time] plays such a big role in stopping real-life interactions and connections. So if … we can use board games and find more spaces to connect outside of that and in real life, I think it's nice to revert back to what makes us innately human.' she says. The pilot is part of Auckland Council's push to use libraries as community hubs that promote social connection, mental stimulation and affordable fun. Catherine Leonard, Head of Library and Learning Services for Auckland Council, says the motivation behind piloting a board game lending collection comes from the libraries seeking innovative collections. 'National and international data shows a clear trend of libraries diversifying their collections, and communities seeking new kinds of engagement with libraries. After hearing about other library systems offering lending board games collections, we were inspired to investigate a collection of our own,' she says. 'Board games offer Aucklanders a free, sustainable and technology-free entertainment option. A borrowable library collection is fantastic for those living in dwellings with limited storage space for their own board game collection.' Designed for adults, Leonard says that international trends showed strong growth in board game use among 20 to 30-year-olds. 'As this is a demographic that we see less frequently in our libraries, the decision was made to target our pilot collection at this age group, with the collection available for borrowing for any customer aged 18+.' The pilot games were chosen for their popularity, repeat playability, and appeal to a wide range of interests and group sizes. She says most importantly, playing board games brings people together. 'They present us with an opportunity to build relationships with friends and family in real life.' Borrowing a board game Cardholders must be 18 or older to borrow from the board game collection. There are no late fees. Borrowers must ensure all pieces are carefully returned in their original packaging. Games must be returned to the front desk at any Auckland library branch, not through the returns chute, as staff need to check for missing or damaged items. This may incur a fine. Locations to browse games Board games are only available at the following libraries: Botany, Central City, East Coast Bays, Glenfield, Māngere Bridge, Manurewa, Mt Albert, Onehunga, Papatoetoe War Memorial, and Waitākere Central (Henderson). Pilot and 12 month review [SUB] The pilot's success will be evaluated on checkouts by the target audience, turnover rates, and customer feedback on both the collection and related programmes. A formal review will take place 12 months after launch, with potential expansion to more libraries, additional game titles, and broader age groups considered. Each of the 10 pilot branches holds 10 different game titles. Games are reservable across the region.
Scoop
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Game Of Loans: Libraries Lend Out Board Games
Wednesday, 28 May 2025, 8:04 pm Article: Mary Afemata - Local Democracy Reporter Libraries are stepping up their game - literally. This week, 10 Auckland libraries, including Manurewa, Papatoetoe, and Māngere Bridge, launched a free board games lending service for adults. It's part of a push to re-engage young adults and make libraries more social, inclusive, and fun. Chair of the Ōtara Papatoetoe local board, Apulu Reece Autagavaia, says it's an amazing initiative. 'Many of our Pacific communities have traditions of playing board games and the like, including mū or Samoan checkers. "Card games and dominoes are also played throughout the Pacific. These games are fun and interactive, but also develop skills and strategic thinking.' Cardholders can borrow board games for free. Each person can borrow one game at a time for up to two weeks. Torisse Laulu, founder of Lalaga Card Games, says it's an 'incredible' idea. 'It's so brilliant, honestly,' she says. She believes the move is progressive and could foster deeper, real-world connections in an increasingly digital age. Laulu says screen time has taken over much of daily life, affecting how people relate to one another, and that board games could help reverse that. '[Screen time] plays such a big role in stopping real-life interactions and connections. So if ... we can use board games and find more spaces to connect outside of that and in real life, I think it's nice to revert back to what makes us innately human.' she says. The pilot is part of Auckland Council's push to use libraries as community hubs that promote social connection, mental stimulation and affordable fun. Catherine Leonard, Head of Library and Learning Services for Auckland Council, says the motivation behind piloting a board game lending collection comes from the libraries seeking innovative collections. 'National and international data shows a clear trend of libraries diversifying their collections, and communities seeking new kinds of engagement with libraries. After hearing about other library systems offering lending board games collections, we were inspired to investigate a collection of our own,' she says. 'Board games offer Aucklanders a free, sustainable and technology-free entertainment option. A borrowable library collection is fantastic for those living in dwellings with limited storage space for their own board game collection.' Designed for adults, Leonard says that international trends showed strong growth in board game use among 20 to 30-year-olds. 'As this is a demographic that we see less frequently in our libraries, the decision was made to target our pilot collection at this age group, with the collection available for borrowing for any customer aged 18+.' The pilot games were chosen for their popularity, repeat playability, and appeal to a wide range of interests and group sizes. She says most importantly, playing board games brings people together. 'They present us with an opportunity to build relationships with friends and family in real life." Borrowing a board game Cardholders must be 18 or older to borrow from the board game collection. There are no late fees. Borrowers must ensure all pieces are carefully returned in their original packaging. Games must be returned to the front desk at any Auckland library branch, not through the returns chute, as staff need to check for missing or damaged items. This may incur a fine. Locations to browse games Board games are only available at the following libraries: Botany, Central City, East Coast Bays, Glenfield, Māngere Bridge, Manurewa, Mt Albert, Onehunga, Papatoetoe War Memorial, and Waitākere Central (Henderson). Pilot and 12 month review [SUB] The pilot's success will be evaluated on checkouts by the target audience, turnover rates, and customer feedback on both the collection and related programmes. A formal review will take place 12 months after launch, with potential expansion to more libraries, additional game titles, and broader age groups considered. Each of the 10 pilot branches holds 10 different game titles. Games are reservable across the region. Find out more on the Auckland Libraries website here. © Scoop Media
RNZ News
21-05-2025
- RNZ News
'Excellent outcome': Police seize illegal firearm in Manurewa
An illegal firearm police said they seized in Manurewa. Photo: Police / Supplied Police say they have had an "excellent outcome" after arresting two people and removing a firearm from the south Auckland community of Manurewa. Officers were called to a Great South Road property on Tuesday at about 3.40pm after a man was reportedly trying to gain entry. "It was reported that a known offender was likely involved, and concerningly for us it was reported that he was in possession of a firearm," Inspector Warrick Adkin said. "Armed staff made an approach to the address, and located the victim who was unharmed, and the offender had not gained entry." Adkin said the police Eagle helicopter was deployed into the Manurewa area and located a vehicle of interest parked on Browns Road. "Eagle observed a man and woman exit an address and get into this vehicle and tracked it to Southmall." Armed police approached the parked vehicle and took both occupants into custody. Adkin said methamphetamine was located in the vehicle and they arrested a 42-year-old woman. "No firearm was located in the vehicle - however a search of the Browns Road property located a cut down firearm, which is an excellent outcome. "Seizing illegal firearms such as this, will reduce harm in our community and enhance public safety." A 38-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court charged with unlawful possession of a pistol and ammunition, along with speaks threateningly. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
