Written by Nick Henzell, Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau
The four-day retreat, Te Taiao—Our Environment, began in Auckland, where two NZLP alumni immediately gave us a reality check on the facts of climate change and biodiversity loss. This stimulated our conversation for the next few days, regarding potential system changes to tackle climate change. One suggestion was to connect more with nature, in order to feel it in our hearts and prompt action. As I looked out to the Auckland CBD, I could barely see a tree in sight amongst the busyness of life, and I couldn’t help but feel the effects from people on the environment can sometimes be a case of being out of sight and out of mind. This opening conversation was a direct contrast to the rest of the retreat, based within nature in Hauraki and Coromandel.
We then went to Thames, where we had a brief chat with the collective leadership of ‘The Basket’, a network working on local food issues, Te Tiriti justice education and environmental justice in Hauraki, before we made our windy way to our beautiful retreat location in Flaxmill Bay. On our journey we saw the stark reminders of the effects of climate change: road cones, slips, and fallen trees scattered prominently, all altering the beautiful views of this part of New Zealand. On arrival at the retreat location, it was immediately apparent that this was fitting place to reflect on the environment. Right on the beach, nestled in nature, with sounds of morepork and kiwi in the evening, and looking out towards stunning native bush.
With nature right on tap, over the next few days we were able to reflect on our leadership and ourselves in relation to the whenua (land), ngahere (forest), maunga (mountain) and the moana (ocean). We even found some time to do some nature bathing, a great way to improve physical and mental wellbeing! During the retreat I was able to be open and to reflect deeper than ever, draw inspiration from my ancestry and think about how to improve and heal this beautiful country. It was a luxury to stop, breathe, and have the space to connect with nature. I have never heard and seen so much birdlife, maybe it was just allowing space or maybe it was because there are such good people caring for the environment in the Coromandel and the wildlife is starting to recover!
The speakers we had over the next few days were able to give their insights into the local area, an area where Kupe, the Polynesian explorer, first arrived in New Zealand. They spoke of the local history and gave us an understanding of the challenges they face to maintain the local biodiversity, some describing a deep spiritual connection with the whenua. We even learnt how to rap with Tipene, who then broke down the meaning of the lyrics of his song Kupe, before performing his song with a lot of us starstruck! There was a lot to learn from people who are drawing their inspiration and direction from their ancestors. I took some comfort and gained hope in the fantastic people who are doing what they can to reduce the effects of climate change and maintain the area’s biodiversity.
During the retreat, on a day which we spent completely outside, I was so relaxed and felt like I was on summer holiday with some good friends! I have never sung and laughed so much. As I drove home, listening to Tipene on Spotify, I thought of all conversations, connections, laughs and friendships I am developing with the NZLP cohort of 2023. I feel so privileged to be on this program with an amazing group of people, this is a leadership program like no other and it is certainly making me feel and think differently with every retreat. Let’s keep NZ beautiful!