Whanganui and Manawatū join Zero Waste initiative

A kaupapa Māori Zero Waste initiative seeks to eliminate rubbish on marae, in kura and kōhanga reo in Whanganui and the Manawatū with the appointment of Aroha Paranihi-Beckham (Whanganui, Tūwharetoa, Kai Tahi, Ngā Puhi) as a waste advisor for the Para Kore programme.

“I am very excited to support marae, kōhanga reo, kura and community organisations in our rohe. Together we can do so much for our environment. Our journey towards Zero Waste is all about looking after Papatūānuku. I have an extremely diverse background. The one commonality in all the roles I have been involved in through my lifetime leads back to the holistic wellness of individuals, whānau, hapū, iwi, and our environment – te taiao (the environment)” says Para Kore kaiārahi (waste advisor) Aroha Paranihi-Beckham.

“Para Kore, which means Zero Waste, is a call to action that aims to end the current take, make, and dispose mentality that we have now become accustomed to. In its simplest form it is Kaitiakitanga in practice, caring for Ranginui and Papatūānuku. Across Aotearoa, over 300 marae, kura, kōhanga reo and community organisations are already working towards Zero Waste. Now it is our turn in in Whanganui and the Manawatū to make a difference.”

“Ko te kaupapa o Para Kore, he kaupapa ārahi i a tātau ki te hoki atu ki ngā tikanga a kui mā a koro mā, arā, te mahi māra, te kohi kai, me ngā mahinga kai o mua.”