Waitangi Day 2024

Waitangi Day is almost upon us, and there are celebrations taking place in The Square – Te Marae o Hine from 10-2pm. I’ll be at the shop, but I’m hoping I’ll get some time to pop over and check it all out.

A few years ago, I created an Aotearoa Inspired space in-store where we could showcase craft, books, and other products with a Kiwi flavour. And while there are still ornaments available in this area it has, over time, become more book focused, and more recently we’ve discovered some beautiful card decks created by Aotearoa New Zealand authors.

Palmy is not a tourist town so we’re not catering to the tourist market, but rather our local community. The response we received (almost immediately) to the books written for Maori, and those who are interested in Maori culture and history, showed me there was a desire in people to learn more. Over time the range has grown and will continue to do so, as long as there is a demonstrated desire for it.

Leading a team that often includes Maori Earth Angels, has opened my eyes to things outside of my own experience as a Pakeha New Zealander. These are challenging times for all of Aotearoa New Zealand, but in particular for Maori, and I’m proud to stand with them as they navigate these challenges.

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