Blog Posts

Now that 2024 is wrapped up, it’s time to reflect on a year of growth and challenges. In a year I dubbed my 'bold era', I emerged from a mid-year creative slump to launch a cheeky new line of bilingual greeting cards, which had been on my mind for years. Alongside creating more educational resources and making key decisions like moving some production overseas, I was continually driven to enhance our offerings. While I didn't expand our team as hoped, the foundation laid in previous years helped navigate these changes with resilience and creativity.

Learn how to incorporate te reo Māori into your daily environment with our easy DIY tutorial for making a display board for Pakiaka wooden letter tiles. This guide offers two creative and easy options using materials from local craft stores. Whether you opt for a classic wooden frame or a bold blackboard stand, these display boards are perfect for showcasing Māori proverbs or welcoming messages. Ideal for home, workplace or classroom settings, these boards are a versatile addition to your decor.

Discover the vibrant spectrum of Māori humour in this enlightening exploration of its unique characteristics. From self-deprecating jokes to bold satirical punches, Māori humour intertwines cultural identity with cheeky wit, offering insights into a comedy style that's as thought-provoking as it is hilarious. Understand how Māori humour stands distinct from Kiwi comedy, with its fearless approach to taboo topics and its ability to turn everyday moments into memorable laughs.

Learn te reo Māori through the universal language of baking with Taku Puka Tohutao Tutatahi, an Edmonds cookbook filled with handy Māori vocabulary for baking enthusiasts. This brilliant illustrated guide not only teaches you how to whip up classic New Zealand recipes but will also help improve your te reo skills in the kitchen. From stirring to kneading, every step is an opportunity to learn and enjoy te reo with your whānau. A must-have for anyone eager to combine their love for baking with language learning.

Exploring the varied experiences of Māori identity, our followers have opened up about their unique journeys in response to 'What kind of Māori are you?' From reclaiming their language to reshaping stereotypes, this article sheds light on the breadth of Māori experiences. It underscores sentiments of pride, healing, and the continuous path of engaging with one's Māoritanga.

Is it appropriate for non-Māori to wear taonga? This question invites us to explore diverse viewpoints within our community. While some advocate for taonga to be exclusive to Māori, others support sharing Māori culture with those who respect its values. This discourse is not about setting hard rules but rather encouraging a thoughtful approach to cultural exchange, emphasising respect, intention, and genuine connection with Māori culture.

This article addresses the importance of embracing mixed heritage and the unique complexities it brings. It challenges the outdated concept of blood quantum, advocating for identity recognition based on whakapapa and personal engagement. The discussion underscores the significance of acknowledging and celebrating diverse cultural roots, which contribute to a richer, more nuanced personal identity. This exploration not only honours ancestral legacies but also promotes a more inclusive understanding of what it means to belong to multiple cultures.