Huia

Last night I attended the eighth Huia Publishers awards at Te Papa.

My brother was a finalist for the Extract from a Novel category, for which he achieved Runner Up (congrats Paul), but apart from that unique experience it was a wonderful occasion which reintroduced me to Maori culture.

I didn't realised how distant I had become, how swirled and stoned in media rhetoric. Last night was like a time warp, pulling be back to the primary school mat where I clumsily twirled poi and sang waiata. It was innocent, heartfelt, and earnest.

The music was wonderful, the language beautiful. The ceremony was passionate, and it touched me.

Most of all, it made me want to pick up a Maori author, and the Maori language. I hope more do so.