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Masterton's East Side Community Revival

May 6, 2025

Lecture Notes: Life and Community in Masterton's East Side

Introduction

  • Masterton's East Side, AKA 'The Block'
    • Known for its rich Māori heritage and close-knit community.
    • Approximately 30% of residents are Māori.
    • Historically faced social inequality; identified as a low socioeconomic area.

Gang Influence and History

  • Nomads Gang

    • Founded in 1977 by Dennis Hines in Horowhenua.
    • Hines was a former member of Black Power.
    • Gang's influence expanded to areas like Masterton.
    • Activities included violent crimes like drug dealing, extortion, and assaults.
    • Leadership changes after Hines's death in 2009 impacted operations.
  • Community Impact

    • Increase in gang-related violence such as recent homicides.
    • Community initiatives for cultural preservation and improvement.

Personal Stories and Reformation

  • Shannon

    • Ex-Nomad gang member for over 30 years.
    • Experienced state care and abuse, leading to gang life.
    • Currently helping others navigate out of gang life.
    • Realizations about child abuse reflected in his past glorification of gang life.
    • Now involved in community and family business (Hemy’s kitchen).
  • Community Efforts

    • Development of spaces for community healing led by locals.
    • Emphasis on providing opportunities for young people.

Gang Life and Family Dynamics

  • Generational Influence

    • Many grew up in gang culture; some parents were also gang members.
    • Family and community influence crucial in breaking the cycle.
  • Youth and Community Change

    • Shift in younger generation picking up old gang habits.
    • Efforts to create positive change through employment and education.

Notable Gang Figures

  • Dennis Hines

    • Leader and founder of Nomads, remembered for his strong influence.
    • Seen as either a friend or enemy; his legacy remains controversial.
  • Killer Bees

    • Formed as a youth street gang in 2003.
    • Expansion into Masterton after Hines’s death.
    • Efforts towards positive change within the gang.

Community Initiatives and Outcomes

  • Hemy's Kitchen

    • Family-run business focusing on positive community engagement.
    • Offers a sense of purpose and normalcy away from gang life.
  • Story of Redemption

    • Former gang members like Shannon and others working towards better lives for themselves and their families.

Reflection and Future Aspirations

  • Positive Influence from Community Leaders

    • Role models emerging from within the community.
    • Commitment to setting examples for younger generations.
  • Cultural and Social Initiatives

    • Programs addressing inequity and supporting education and employment.
    • Focus on unity and moving away from a history of violence.

Conclusion

  • Masterton's east side is evolving through community efforts and personal stories of change.
  • Continued focus on education, employment, and cultural pride as tools for breaking the cycle of gang affiliation.