The Influencers: Lianne Dalziel

Breaking down barriers.

The launch of the Christchurch Invitation: Mahia te Aroha last month was a very moving event, for all who attended.

Seven Gold Bravery Awards were presented by the Governor-General, Dame Patsy Reddy, in her role as patron of the Royal Humane Society of New Zealand.

The flood of support, unity and compassion in response to the mosque attacks of March 15, 2019, is what the Christchurch Invitation seeks to keep alive.

Mahia te Aroha represents action motivated by compassion and is something we can all make part of our lives by spreading peace, sharing kai, reconnecting with others, and reflecting.

There are simple acts that we can do every day.

Spreading peace can be as simple as saying something to make someone smile or helping someone with a problem.

My favourite is sharing kai. Food breaks down barriers. When we sit down with others, we can learn about who they are. Sharing ideas, asking questions and opening up to another world – that’s how barriers come down and friendships are forged.

Reconnecting could mean phoning someone you have not spoken to for a long time. It could also mean learning how to pronounce a person’s name correctly.

And reflecting could be disconnecting from technology and walking in nature. Look around for things that bring you a sense of awe and wonder.

Take a minute to reflect on what you could do. www.mahiatearoha.nz