Liam Pengelly from Cheviot Area School believes making time for yourself, and building strong connections with those around you, are the keys to living a happy life.
While life’s been pretty challenging at times since the November 2016 earthquake, he says coming to school each day and being able to hang with friends has been really important for his wellbeing.
“You’ve also got to do stuff just for you – not just because other people are doing it.”
Liam says that when times are tough it’s important to talk about it.
“Simply asking ‘are you all right?’ can make big difference. Be positive, stay strong. If things do get you down let people help you.”
Liam says two of the best things about living in Hurunui are the landscape, and the people.
“There’s two rivers and a beach. Gore Bay, motorbiking up Random Spur and Paper Road at Maxwell are all awesome. And it’s so good knowing everyone, and having friends right across the region, in places like Waiau and Culverden. There are connections everywhere.”