My mother is Erin Kerekere, who joins me here today with her best friend and my godmother, Susan, and my Ryan whānau. Mum was raised in Dunedin by her parents, our nana and grandad, Lorna and Tom Ryan, who lived into their nineties. We hail from County Clare and County Tipperary in Ireland. It wasn't until I visited Ireland several times over the last few years, including with Mum, that I began developing an Irish identity. I welcome the wisdom of my Irish ancestors now it is easier for them to guide me.