This year’s annual review of race relations in Aotearoa New Zealand marks a decade of efforts to further foster harmonious race relations and promote the equal enjoyment of human rights by all New Zealanders. The Commission’s first review was published in 2004. During 2013, my first year as Race Relations Commissioner, I have seen first-hand how Aotearoa New Zealand’s growing diversity is building richer and more vibrant communities. I also gained insight into new race relations challenges and heard from those who’ve experienced racial discrimination and harassment. I enjoyed in-depth discussions with community, iwi and faith leaders and attended many inspiring events and celebrations. It was an honour to commemorate Matariki with King Tüheitia in Ngäruawähia, to break bread with a multi-faith group hosted by Wellington’s Jewish community, and to enjoy a special Iftar meal marking the end of Ramadan at Parliament. There have been many other memorable experiences. I was incredibly moved when Afghan interpreters and their families were welcomed by the Defence Force, the New Zealand Police and the people of Hamilton at a pöwhiri at Kirikiriroa Marae. How great would it be if we could treat all new New Zealanders this way? This year also saw the passing of Nelson Mandela − a hero of the human rights movement and a voice for unity, dignity and respect. His inspirational commitment to racial equality remains as an example to us all. Mandela’s humility and leadership, compassion and dignity, humour and humanity will continue to enlighten and inform the human rights work of the many people he inspired and championed. His death also reminds us of the history behind the International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Observed on March 21 each year, the day commemorates the tragedy in 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa, when over 50 people were killed during protests against discriminatory apartheid laws. For New Zealanders, March 21, Race Relations Day, is an opportunity to actively nurture and celebrate our diversity. It also offers us a time to reflect on, and justify our country’s reputation as a world leader in building harmonious communities. It gives us time to think about the realities of many New Zealanders, and the challenges ahead.