It’s a new year, a time when we feel we need to start fresh, begin resolutions, and make big changes in our lives. 2026 has already started quite differently than most of us had hoped - so, I think it’s only fitting that as part of our newest Season 8, now is a perfect time to share what Matariki, the Māori New Year celebration, means to the people of Aotearoa (New Zealand), as so beautiful said by Kiriana Koni : It’s a time for - Reflecting on the past. Making the most of the present. And preparing for the future. I want to let that sit with you as much as it sits with me right now. Ngā mihi, thank you to our new whānau, our new family, ngatiwhatuaorakei, who took us right in and shared with us the incredible beauty, joy, and perseverance of the Māori people during this beautiful holiday, which is NOW a federal holiday in the country, one of the first of its kind in the world! Ngā mihi to its_kiri96 for taking me right in to her home to share the intimate traditions of Matariki ...