THE PARIHAKA INTERNATIONAL PEACE FESTIVAL 2009

On 9th January some members of the Trust went to Parihaka. Kevin and Valerie Clements, newly arrived back in Aotearoa New Zealand, were also there and Kevin gave his inaugural speaking engagement as Director of the Centre at Parihaka as one of several speakers over the three day event.

The festival has its roots in the teachings of Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kakahi who rejected violence in the face of great adversity during an invasion by armed troops in 1881 at Parihaka.

The vision of Parihaka is to provide a forum where people who share a philosophy for peace, justice and eco responsibility can exchange knowledge and skills.

Parihaka is nestled around substantial lahar mounds from Mt Taranaki where the atmosphere was one of great friendliness and inclusivity.

The festival was chaired by Maori Language Commissioner Ruakere Hond.

Visit the Festival site: www.parihaka.com

Back row: Edwina Hughes, Dorothy Brown, Graeme Sykes, Anne Ackerman, Kevin Clements. Front row: Prue Stringer, Valerie Clements.

Photos from the Festival