On Monday evening two local schools gave us plenty to think about as they took part in The Holyoake Annual Debate. The moot was "This House Believes in New Zealand city life is best. St Kentigern College debated the Affirmative and Pakuranga College argued the Negative.Teachers from Sacred Heart College Adjudicated. St Kents argued that living in a city was the best because it provided jobs, medical care, homes, education,natural spaces and community, as well as plenty of activities. Pakuranga argued that rural life provided all these things and more, often more cheaply. The adjudicators considered that St Kents best agued the moot and awarded the debate to them.
Bet Holyoake presented cups to each member of the winning team along with the big cup for placement in St Kent's trophy cupboard.
While we waited for the adjudicators to complete their discussion considering the winners of the debate Members and Guests were treated to a presentation from Sandhya Govind outlining her journey and many business opportunities on her way to Auckland. She began in India then Bangkok followed by a stint in Dubai then finally on to Auckland. One wonders how she managed to produce 3 children as well as creating businesses along the way. Sandhya is currently compiling a book of crossword puzzles for publication next year.
