There is the old adage about bouquets and brickbats and here is my short list of some of who qualify for one or the other.

In my view, Numangatini Ariki and the people of Mangaia deserve a huge bouquet for ensuring that the remains of the Ui Tupuna were returned safely to their island for reburial in Orongo Marae. The story of how the earthly remains of the ancestors came to be taken away, and even more incredible is the story of how they were found again. What is especially pleasing is that it was Numangatini Ariki and his Aronga Mana who are credited in leading the way in this repatriation project.

The other two on my shortlist for bouquets are related to akataoanga of ancient taoanga in Vaka Takitumu. 

The first was the akataoanga of Jojo Heather as the new Tamakeu Mataiapo and all the related titles under the marumaru of his taoanga in Teimurimotia.

Later in the same week, there was also a ceremony to celebrate the akataoanga of three new titleholders under Tangiiau Mataiapo Tutara in Ngatangiia. The new Kauono is Valery Wichman, and the new Rangatira: are Justine Flanagan as Maui Rangatira and the other is Teremoana Monga, as the new Te Pau o Tangiia Rangatira.

Then there are at least two who qualify for brickbats such as Te Tuhi Kelly who never seems to have any positive comments to make about anything about our society and way of life.

And a bigger brickbat for Steve Boggs and his endless letters or propaganda to have the use of weed decriminalised here in the Cook Islands. 

Those two writers need to lighten up and look on the bright side of life instead of spouting all that negativity.

If things are so unbearable to them, perhaps they might give some thought to relocating to somewhere that shares their negative opinions.

Let the sun shine in

(Name and address supplied)