Merepeka Raukawa-Tait: Highs and lows of the year

The loss of Mauriora Kingi was one of the lows of the year. Pictured is his funeral at Whakarewarewa Village. Photo / File

Sometimes I wish I could see into the future. What's coming over the horizon? Then I get the willies and think, no don't mess with that. The future will unfold all by itself, just as it should.

At least we can look back. Over the past 12 months, like all years, there have been some highs and lows. Things happened that weren't anticipated, such is life. I hadn't expected to get a call a few months ago - "bist du Maria". Even after 30 years I would know that voice anywhere. Saying Maria was a giveaway anyway. Only Hans, my first husband who I hadn't seen and spoken to for 30 years, called me Maria. He was visiting New Zealand and made contact with my family. I was out of town at the time so the family called me so that Hans and I could at least catch up on the phone. No way. "You have to stay in Rotorua tonight. I'll be home tomorrow".

After 30 years I wanted to see what he looked like and to catch up of course. He looked just as I remembered. Handsome and charming. Just a little frail I thought. And, surprisingly, his English had pretty much disappeared. We spoke German all the time. But it was a lovely surprise and although we had only a few days together with my family, it was nice to reminisce and know we had both found happiness after our marriage ended.

And then another call. Could I help? Someone needed a place to stay to complete his home detention. I had to give that some serious thought. What if it got out? That I had someone living at my home who was basically under house arrest.

Well, it wouldn't be the first time. I've had men released from prison staying in my home and they have been the best of house guests. So what's a girl to do?

And what an experience that's been. A bird's eye view of the corrections system. A review there wouldn't go amiss either. But what a treat. Having a great conversationalist to come home to every evening. The discussions around politics, past and present, anti-mining and environmental issues, current affairs, history, all got an airing. Quotes from Aristotle and Socrates were trotted out regularly. Lively, invigorating conversations. A friendship now that will last a lifetime. Go well my friend.

Then driving to Taupo, one text after another. I had to pull over as someone was obviously desperate to get hold of me. A stream of messages all telling me that Mauriora [Kingi] had passed away. I sat in the car and cried. I had seen him the night before. We said goodbye at the cafe and he went home. He had the flu and wanted an early night as he was leaving that weekend for England.

Over the years as a family we had such happy times together. I am pleased that I can be there now for his children but his loss is felt by so many not only within Te Arawa but throughout the country.

And with work the pace is as fast as ever. Another full-on year. Apart from the council and the health board I sit on three other boards. And that's quite enough. Each has its challenges but opportunities as well. I am convinced that when you have a great team, all working constructively together, great things will happen.

It hasn't been easy this year as the organisations have all had to ensure prudent financial management. I give credit to the chief executives of these boards for their strategic, objective thinking, and the balance of skills, knowledge and experience they bring to the job. They make the role of director, and decision making, more enjoyable.

As to looking into the future. No, I think I'll leave that well alone. I'll make the most of every day and live in the present.

-Merepeka lives in Rotorua. She writes, speaks and broadcasts to thwart the spread of political correctness.