Most of us understand "poverty" in Third World countries where even the most intelligent and studious people in the world can still become refugees either because a despot decides to take over their community at the point of a gun, or some natural disaster uproots thousands.
When I worked in England, some of those who lived on the streets were people who had viable jobs on building sites, until the country hit a building crisis in the eighties.
I get the sense that Wairarapa suits those who work hard. In rural communities there is a greater feeling of I put in the work, I get this back. But I also think in communities like these, it is easy to view poverty with disdain.
To many of us, it seems like a simple formula, hard work and rewards, and having the drive to succeed. But it's not that simple. We forget there's a springboard of advantages for many of us.
Our ancestors' hard work, values and good fortune is a big help. So too, is an education system geared for Europeans.
It is fortunate that Nina, at a young age, sees in a non-judgmental way that poverty is normal, albeit undesirable and unfair. "These people are like you and me," she says.
It would be my hope that her generation grows up with that thought in mind.
