https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhLboa3U9fI Introduction After a seamless three and a half hours in the air from Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) to Te Whenua Moemoeā (Australia), I found myself amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Sydney, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Opera House. The reason for this trans-Tasman journey? The inaugural South by Southwest (SXSW) in Sydney, a convergence of film, interactive media, and music festivals that typically calls Austin, Texas home. Discovering SXSW For those unacquainted with SXSW, it’s an annual gathering that draws participants from diverse creative industries, creating a kaleidoscope of panels, presenters, celebrity appearances, and musical performances over five days. This year, it wasn’t just about the event, it was about bringing Te Ao Māori and the richness of indigenous cultures to the forefront at the AotearoaNzHouse. Embracing Indigenous Roots at AotearoaNzHouse The AotearoaNzHouse proved to be a home away from home, a haven for indigenous creatives, businessmen,