Many Mothers have been doing the heavy lifting recently in Central and across Aotearoa. 

There have been lockdowns, home learning and working from home and then covid-19’s rapid spread throughout the Central community. 

Events - sporting, cultural and community, family holidays, school camps, birthday parties and travel have been cancelled or postponed.

Today is Mother’s Day, a day to thank and reflect on all of the mums, including the soon to be mums, grandmothers, great grandmothers, fur baby mums, mums no longer with us, would be mums, adopted mums and anyone who plays the all important role of mum in your life. 

Traditionally people celebrate Mothers’ Day with lots of hugs and kisses, family get-togethers, outings for brunch or to the local winery.

This year, with the cost of living increasing you don’t need to spend big to make mum feel special. Whatever your budget, there are many ways you can mark the day.

Spend virtual time together

Don’t just make a quick call – spend time with Mum. Put a smile on her face with a video call. Talk to her, let her know she’s valued.

Get creative

Bring out your inner Taika Watiti, and create a video – you  can include messages of appreciation and a few laughs. Why not feature some Central scenery or autumn colours as your backdrop?

Make a Mothers’ Day card. Deliver it to her letterbox if you live close by, or take photos and email them to her. Write an actual letter – hand-made cards and letters are special things to treasure.

Do you have hidden artistic talents? Our local bookstores are open for business and well-stocked with art and craft supplies.

Give mum the day off

It’s also the opening weekend for duck-shooting, so if you’re heading to the maimai take the children along to give her a break.

Or arrange a babysitter for the kids, and book her for a massage, or for a low cost option organise a candle-lit bubble bath at home. 

Is mum isolating with covid-19?

Drop off a home cooked meal, baking or some chicken soup. Pain killers, cough medicine, magazines or a good book to read will let her know you’re thinking of her.

If you’re not that competent in the kitchen, organise some takeaways from a local café or restaurant so she doesn’t have to cook. 

Think green

It’s cheap to call around and mow her lawns or do a spot of weeding in the garden. Sort out her compost or drop off her recycling.

Take her some cuttings from your garden to plant, or some home grown greenery or wild flowers for a vase.

Whatever you do for mum, take a load off her tomorrow, and be kind to create memories you’ll all treasure.

Does your mum deserve a shout out for being awesome? How have you looked after her this Mother's Day? Let us know and email your pictures to: [email protected]

Happy Mothers day to all the amazing ladies of Central!