Book tour to schools in the Far North.

On the 22nd of July (Maori language week) I attempted to fly to Kaitaia to visit some isolated schools.
The weather was very stormy, so landing at Kaitaia airport was impossible. After a wild journey and equally scary landing, I was back in Auckland. Later in the day Air New Zealand flew us to Kerikeri, and fortunately a calm landing!!!
We were taken by bus to Kaitaia, arriving after five pm that night. That left two days, instead of three, to visit six schools. At most schools, my address was given to the whole school. The ages of the children ranged from little new entrants, to children ready for high school.
I began the following day at Te Hapua school, the most northern school in the country, with about thirty five children. The school was on a high hill, overlooking a fantastic sea view, and their Ratana church, down by the sea. The staff and children gave me a warm welcome, and all loved the story of The Gift of Mamaku.
The other schools I visited were Ngataki Primary, Te Kao primary, Waiharara primary, Pukepoto primary and Pukenui Primary school. In every place, despite the cold wintery weather, everyone was friendly, warm hearted and most welcoming.
It was wonderful to see the positive reactions from the children and staff, to the
book. I particularly enjoyed the question time with the children, who were keen to have all their questions about disability answered. At each school we had time to watch a short DVD about the Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre in Auckland. I think this was a very educational time for the children. Each school received a gifted book for their library and a Raukatauri DVD. The Kaitaia Public Library now has a copy of The Gift of Mamaku.

I have a special "thank you" for Maureen and Simon, of Gunnypas B&B, at Ngataki. They really made me welcome and went the second mile for me, especially when our box of books went "astray" and turned up after I had left. Many thanks to Simon and Maureen for delivering books on my behalf. I hope to return and stay with you another time.

Robina