On June 21, 2026 , during the Dragon Boat Festival, the Auckland Botanic Gardens was bathed in a soft, misty rain, as if draped in a gentle filter. People, umbrellas in hand, raincoats on their backs, and small bags on their shoulders, gathered in twos and threes at the entrance, creating a scene of relaxed ease and freedom unique to hiking in the rain. With anticipation, the Daren Life Society’s “Dragon Boat Festival Garden Hiking Activity” warmly commenced.
An unexpected encounter
As the hiking activity began, a woman walking alone passed by. Seeing the volunteers holding up small flags, she asked curiously, “Are you a tour group?” Everyone enthusiastically invited her to join and introduced her to the Daren Community activities. Unexpectedly, the woman’s eyes lit up: “Ah! I know! I’ve been in your group for several years!” She excitedly took out her phone to show off her active presence.
She not only shared knowledge about the Dragon Boat Festival along the way, but also casually picked leaves to demonstrate how to wrap zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). Previously, she mostly chatted online, but this unexpected encounter made her fall even more in love with this warm and welcoming community.
Along the way, she ran into her neighbor and enthusiastically introduced the Daren Life Society to everyone. When the neighbor heard that Daren Life Society offered such a variety of activities, such as singing, yoga, and community mutual help, and that its mission was to put people first , she immediately joined the Daren Life Society .
Understanding between people comes from mutual resonance.
“Life should be simple and pure.” “Society is complicated,” a volunteer said sincerely. Faced with the notion that “society is complicated,” she held firm to her beliefs: “I don’t care about others; I just want to do my best. Daren Life Society is such a pure place, so I really enjoy staying here and am happy to recommend Daren to my friends.”
A veteran volunteer echoed this sentiment, remarking that it’s rare to find such a wonderful group activity in New Zealand. This time, she specifically brought a new friend along.
The newcomers seemed a little lost upon arrival. Attentive volunteers proactively approached them to chat. After learning that the Daren Life Society ‘s mutual help program was a long-term and enriching platform, the newcomers’ eyes lit up with joy, and they expressed their anticipation of participating in more activities in the future .
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Everyone is shining
Along the way, the volunteers switched between various roles. One of them transformed into a “learned elder,” introducing everyone to the native New Zealand plant growing by the roadside—the Kawakawa tree , which is cherished by the Maori people .
“This plant is a treasure trove; its leaves, when steeped in water, can reduce inflammation and relieve pain, and also boost immunity…”
Everyone saw the heart-shaped, glossy green leaves and touched the veins radiating from the center. A gentle pinch released a refreshing, warm fragrance of grass and wood, invigorating the senses.
“Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. When we share our knowledge and experience with those around us, we are building bridges, making the connections between people grow longer and longer.” The journey has not been long, but everyone’s hearts have grown closer.
The botanical garden, though in winter, was still ablaze with blossoms in the rain. The golden flowers shone brightly in the overcast weather, like tiny suns. Soon, a glimmer of light appeared on the horizon. A woman couldn’t help but hum a little tune: “Life is short, only a few autumns, let’s not stop until we’re drunk…” The song echoed in the rain, washing away all sorrow and worries.
The flowers, plants, and trees in the botanical garden were stunningly beautiful. Everyone took photos and chatted, their laughter filling the air.
While dining at a nearby library, someone accidentally spilled oil, which was immediately wiped clean. Turning around, one could see everyone spontaneously tidying up tables and cleaning the floor, treating the public space as their own home. There were no reminders, no instructions, only naturally displayed manners and goodwill.
A sentence is written on the library wall: “Where ideas grow,” which perfectly reflects the theme of this event —Daren Mutual Help in Daily Life, which is to let the “light of humanity” quietly emerge in everyday life.
This hike had no set schedule, everyone came with their own story, and through conversation, they illuminated one another. As long as people are put first, even the coldest sky can be transformed into the warmest of humanity.
Looking forward to more exciting events and a wonderful life.
