There’s no place like home
"Kia mau ki te tokanga nui a noho"
Aotearoa’s
Beckoning
Call
Devotedly
Echoes in the mind of her people.
Flights
Going
Homebound
Ignored
Journeying where the grass is greener.
Kiwis
Look
Mondially
Neglecting
Our pounamu resting against our chests.
Pride
Quietly
Ruminates
Since
Te reo Māori reminds us, kia mau ki te tokanga nui a noho.
Unconditionally, her
Voice
Whispers
Xenially,
You’re welcome here. You’re welcome home.
Zealandia.
About the Creator
Joe O’Connor
New Zealander
English teacher
Short stories and poems📚
Please be honest- I would love your constructive feedback, as it's the only way I'll get better. Would rather it was pointed out so I can improve!
Currently writing James The Wonderer
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Masterful proofreading
Zero grammar & spelling mistakes
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Keep reading
More stories from Joe O’Connor and writers in Poets and other communities.
A Dart at Dusk
Seconds ago, the sullen sun set on the two of us… my exuberant furry companion and me. A fresh breeze embraces us, delivering welcome relief from the day’s oppressive heat. His typical stumbling and staggering along — apace with a sloth — has turned into trip-trapping, high-stepping, almost skipping along.
By Angie the Archivist 📚🪶a day ago in Petlife
Comments (13)
This was such a unique take on the challenge. I see why it was recognized. Late to the party, but again, Happy belated congrats!!!
Joe, this is so beautiful. One of my professors married a Māori man she met while vacationing in New Zealand. They moved to Cambridge and have been there more than 40 years. I always wondered how he acclimated and if he missed visiting his home. Your poem is such a strong statement for 'home'. And congrats on the Abecedarian challenge! A wonderful entry!
Wooohooooo congratulations on your win!! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
Congrats! What an intriguing and clever piece!
Congrats on your placement! Great poem
Love this one too...
I enjoy the abecedarian's that I don't know that is one until I get further into it! Good job!😊💕
I lived in Hawai'i for seven years, getting to know the brethren of the proud Māori. I love all Polynesians : )
I didn't even notice this was for the challenge so well done
What a gorgeous tribute, and more New words for me to learn ❤️
Love this abecedarian!
Beautifully done
A lovely dedication to your homeland. I have visited her too. Beautiful. I have some very special memories from there.