This month’s newsletter takes us on inspiring journeys—both global and local.
Guest speaker Sean Marston shared powerful insights from his 30 years with the International Nepal Fellowship. He spoke of Nepal’s vast challenges—20 million people living in conditions similar to those in our Southern Alps—yet also of hope: smokeless stoves saving lives, and women’s self-help groups transforming communities. His message was clear: while we have our issues, we’re lucky to have a safety net that many others don’t.
Closer to home, our railway fans enjoyed a scenic ride on the Te Huia to Hamilton. Organised by Alan Verry, the trip showcased the comfortable ex-British Rail carriages (soon to retire) and included a relaxed lunch at The Base’s Foundation Bar and Kitchen.
Our mid-winter lunch at Parkhouse Café, Whenuapai, brought together 26 members and partners. Despite tricky parking and chilly weather, the converted farmhouse offered warmth, great service, and cheerful company—especially from Allen and Phyllis Greenland, who came all the way from Warkworth.
Also in this issue: the Navy Band’s Senior Citizens Concert (and muddy parking!), President Bill Mutch’s Parkinson’s update, and Claudia’s classic holiday jokes.
From Nepal to New Lynn, there’s plenty to reflect on this July.
