Insight '79 Prog. 17 Centrepoint
Neville Glasgow explores the therapy based community led by Bert Potter. Potter later served time in prison on perjury, child sex and drugs charges.
Situated on a twelve hectare property about 3 kms from Albany, the Centrepoint community explored 'an alternative lfestyle'. At the time of this documentary, the community was engaged in a massive building project to cope with increasing numbers. This caused conflict with the local body, the Takapuna City Council.
Legally, the community was a trust and decisions were based on a unanimous vote with Potter holding the power to veto any decision or demand that something is done. Residents have varied occupations, give all their assets to the trust upon entry and contribute all their wages [other than a small allowance] to the trust. The community also has several businesses. The community pays all expenses. Centrepoint children attend the local school.
Community members came from a variety of backgrounds and joined for varied reasons. Personal growth and a shared interest in communal living with a spiritual interest are common factors.
Members of the public from the local district also give their views on the community.
Insight '79 Prog. 18: The Plunket Society
[Begins at 00:30:18]
Christine Williams presents a look at the work and changing philosophy of The Plunket Society in contemporary times, with an arguably different approach to previous plunket philosophy. Plunket suggests the individuality of the child is now far more recognised. In short, Plunket provide a more supportive, rather than the previously prescriptive, role.
At the time of the programme, Plunket was undertaking a new style of service in South Auckland to actively encourage children to attend, rather than just dealing with those that turn up. Plunket had also recently introduced a new style of clinic, family support units.