In 1998, just as South Island iwi Ng i Tahu was about to sign its Treaty of Waitangi settlement with the government justice of sorts after seven generations of seeking redress a former foundryman stepped into the pivotal role of kaiwhakahaere or chair of Te R"nanga o Ng i Tahu, the tribal council of Ng i Tahu, Mark Solomon stood at the head of his iwi at a pivotal moment and can be credited with the astute stewardship of the settlement that has today made Ng i Tahu a major player in the economy and given it long sought-after self determination for the affairs of its own people. Bold, energetic and visionary, for 18 years Solomon forged a courageous and determined course, bringing a uniquely M ori approach to a range of issues. Now, in this direct memoir, T Mark reflects on his life, on the people who influenced him, on what it means to lead, and on the future for both Ng i Tahu and Aotearoa New Zealand.