Cooking up a feast

When Administration Officer Marie Te Ahuru suggested taking part in this year’s Taumarunui Big Youth Family Day Out, everybody at the Taumarunui/Waimarino Service Centre jumped at the opportunity for offenders on Community Work sentences to give something back at such a worthwhile event.

“My Service Manager Frank Mariu and Area Manager Raema Mackay didn’t hesitate when I asked if they thought it was a good idea to help out,” says Marie.

The yearly event brings families together with lots of fun activities such as dancing, face painting and games. This year’s event on 30 May was attended by about 200 people.

Ten offenders were selected to help out. Eight helped with preparations the day before and two assisted staff on the day.

“It was a great day,” says Marie. “Everybody really enjoyed the hangi we made. At first I was asked if I wanted to organise it on my own as I have done a couple of large hangi in the past. But I immediately thought it would be a fantastic chance to present the service centre and get offenders involved. What better way to show that we encourage families and youth to work together?”

“The offenders' families were there and that gave the day an extra dimension, even though they were working hard in the kitchen and didn’t get to see them a lot,” says Marie.

“It was great for all of us to hear that the visitors just loved the food. We’ll be back next year!”