Letters: Rio Panapa an 'extra special individual'

Sons of Zion's Rio Panapa from Rotorua. Photo/file

About time. We constantly hear so many negative reports about youngsters, particularly young Maori, that we need to shout from the rooftops that Rotorua has produced some amazing young people who are even more than just talented, hardworking and successful.

Sometimes, there are extra special individuals who use their talents to help others in a big way.

One such person is a young man called Riapo Panapa (Rio Panapa, lead singer of Sons of Zion).

It has been such a privilege to have known him briefly during his time at intermediate school and to follow his inspiring efforts to help others over the years.

CAROL SMYTH
Rotorua

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I must take issue with the statement Rosemary McLeod made (Opinion, Thursday August 17) suggesting the reason for so many issues affecting Maori youth may be the "violence of colonisation, attempted destruction of a culture and language, and its lasting effects".

I would suggest that Rosemary reads A Wild Wind from the North - Hongi Hika's 1823 Invasion of Rotorua by the local, well-respected author, the late Don Stafford.

This well-referenced book indicates to me that Maori were well versed in fighting and warfare long before New Zealand became colonised.

SYLVIA PHILLIPS
Rotorua