Small Country. Big Costs.

The problem in New Zealand today? The rate of obesity and diabetic issues that our country is known for. Most of this effects the Polynesian society. Suburbs with big amounts of Pacific residents like Otahuhu, Mangere and Glen Innes, are known for the large quantity of fast food restaurants. I believe that we should shut down most fast food restaurants, due to the vulnerability of Pacific children and parents.

          It is most likely that McDonalds, Carls Junior and Burger King were built in our communities to make the Pacific youth used to the lifestyle of regular bad eating habits. Most of our society don’t know what’s really in our food, better yet care, but statistics show that the rate of obesity levels from Polynesians increased by 20% over the last year.

          Statistics in 2007 and 2008 showed that Pacific children aged 2 – 12 years, did not have breakfast at home every day. I think this is because they were most likely to buy it from local takeaways and fast food restaurants. Polynesian teenagers are not as academically advanced as Pakeha students, and it’s caused by the lack of focus in class from bad eating habits, to not even having breakfast. Crusader Faletagoai, a local school boy, says that McDonalds posters almost cry to him every morning on his way to school.

          It is most likely that Pacific children are 3 times more likely to get diabetes rather than other New Zealanders. Parents waste money buying takeaways, while being too lazy to make their own healthy choices for their family. It is known by everyone that vegetables are cheaper than buying pre-packaged, disgusting and expensive junk food.

          In conclusion, I believe that we should shut down fast food restaurants in Pacific communities. It is important to maintain a good lifestyle, but best to have a healthy one as well.

My Most Important Interview EVER

In May 2012, my parents and I had one of the biggest events of my life. I was having an interview at St Mary’s College for a spot this year. As always, I was unsure that I wanted to do this. Arriving at the school, a racing heart was heading towards the office, hoping for a GREAT interviewer. I couldn’t stop talking to my parents about how scared I was.

                First off, we waited for about thirty to thirty-five minutes until it was our turn.  We chatted to a couple of people to practically warm our voices up. I could tell that my mum was nervous too, but my father just wasn’t really talking though. I was then startled, when Mr Nolan called us for our interview.

                Almost as sweaty as a pig, my brain went blank, thinking about my old school and friends. The interview was basically just learning about me and my family, and the history of St Mary’s.

“So it’s Juanita, right?” Mr Nolan mentioned- as everyone would say my name.               “Um, JO-nita, sir”, I replied calmly.

“So WHY do you want to come to St Mary’s Jonita?”                                             

 “Well. Because of the great learning facilities and stuff. You know?” I said, trying to think of something smart.         

                As Mr Nolan wanted to know more about me, my parents anxiously told him about my family and brothers. LUCKILY, he was able to sustain interest. (I think)

“So I’ll tell you what. If she wants to, we’ll accept her ”, he stated.

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Hitting my arm, my mother was obviously over emotional.

“Yes, yes!”, I exclaimed.

                I was probably getting over excited myself too. Walking out of the office and bursting with tears of joy, I was already ready for my St Mary’s journey.

Leaving my old school-Pt. England Primary- was real heart-breaking but getting into St Mary’s is a HUGE honour. But overall, the experience was half and half. At least I know I’m going to love it here.

My First Trip to Maraetai Beach

Last week, I had one of the most AMAZING beach trips of my life. My uncle, his girlfriend and my auntie and I went to Maraetai Beach with a few of my aunties cousins. To be honest, I didn't really expect to go anywhere on THAT lazy Saturday. The night before was really busy, and I was tired but it was worth it.

            First, me and my aunty got our things ready after I had my cake for breakfast. Then, we picked up my uncles girlfriend from her house. Then off to Maraetai we went. A few stops to supermarkets and gas stations, but just for some more food:)

            When we FINALLY got there after about one and a half hours, I rapidly ran down to the sea shore. Why? Because I got broke my jandolos at SuperValue supermarket. I had to run because the concrete was really rocky. Arriving onto the soft nude sand, i was relieved.

            Greeting all of my uncles fiance's cousins, we ate, and then SWAM:)) Dipping my feet into the frigid water, I hacked the feeling of numbness in my legs and jumped in. Literally. We swam for about 3-4 HOURS!! I know right. After swimming, me and my uncles jumped off the jetty. It was a high tide so it was really deep too. Luckily, I'm a great swimmer.

            Overall, this trip was amazing. I ate great food, met soon-to-be family members of mine, and spent more than I could wish for with my family. I would love to go to Maraetai Beach again, ANY TIME SOONER.