We opened our Conference with a mihi whakatau and a message sent to us by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, after which we honoured those who came before us to ensure midwifery is recognised as an autonomous profession. Karen Guilliland gave a presentation, which was followed by a line-up of founding MERAS members. As they passed the microphone along the line, many of them acknowledged Bernard McIlhone’s contribution to starting our union. A highlight of the morning was Helen Clark’s presentation, followed by a queue of reps wanting selfies.