In this episode of Untidy, Hannah and Matty have a kōrero with Stacey Morrison (Te Arawa, Ngāi Tahu). A mainstay of broadcasting in Aotearoa New Zealand for three decades, Stacey is also the co-author and author of books to help people on their journey with te reo Māori. As a champion of Māori language, culture and wisdom unique to Aotearoa, Stacey extends the invitation it offers us all to feel stronger about our connection to whenua, to this land.

Stacey did not grow up speaking te reo and had to confront trauma associated with being separated from her native language on her journey to becoming a fluent speaker, translator and teacher. She and her husband, Scotty, have now given the gift of this birthright back to their children by committing to te reo Māori as the first language spoken in their home.

Stacey, Matty and Hannah talk about the unifying opportunities Māori language and wisdom offers the collective culture of Aotearoa and discuss resistance, awkwardness, uncertainty and also enthusiasm associated with this cultural shift through the generations of New Zealanders.

Stacey gives education on Matariki – Māori New Year, and shares how all people can find connection, meaning and celebration by embracing this time.

Follow Stacey on Instagram at @stacedotcom and find her and Scotty’s books in all good book stores.

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Untidy is made for you – the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess we call parenthood! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email hello@untidypodcast.com. Your stories and ideas to help us shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.