FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.
After 3 years of advocating for Christmas lights, the Otara community is finally celebrating the lighting of the Norfolk
pine tree on Fergusson Oaks reserve next to the Tupu Librabry.
Su'a William Sio, Manukau City Councillor for the Otara Ward says I am dedicating this event to the young people of the
Dawson Rd area especially those young people from the Congregational Christian Chruch of Samoa who have in the past
several years supported the community efforts to clean up and beautify the Dawson Rd area.
"I especially want to acknowledge the leadership provided by Dr Reverend Peniamina Vai and all those people who three
years ago saw the vision of strengthening the community by providing not just Christmas lights, but also to promote a
sense of confidence in ourselves, hope for the humanity of mankind, and courage to stand up and do the right thing in
our communities, " says Sio. "This is a good foundation to usher in the festive season this Christmas."
Sio says the lighting ceremony is symbolic and sends a powerful message that the Community Spirit is alive, willing, and
active in the hearts and minds of the Otara community.
“I am also hopeful that the lighting of the Christmas tree next to the Tupu Librabry, a facility dedicated to supporting
young people’s aspiration for knowledge, will send a potent message to all our young people and their families that they
have the power to shine beyond their personal circumstances, beyond their surroundings, beyond wordly stereotypes and
become future leaders in all they do.”
The ceremony for lighting the Norfolk Pine tree will be held Thursday, 17th November 7.30pm next to the Tupu Librabry on
Dawson Rd Otara. All are welcome.
Su'a William Sio
Manukau City Councillor
Chair - Council Plan Committee
ENDS