Here are the best short stories from the Pikihuia Awards for Maori writers 2021 as judged by Emma Espiner, Carol Hirschfeld, Vincent Olsen-Reeder and Maiki Sherman. This competition, run by the Maori Literature Trust and Huia Publishers, is held every two years to promote Maori writers and their work. This year, the awards sought short fiction from first-time and emerging writers in te reo Maori and English.The competition attracts entries each year from writers of all ages and those who are starting out to seasoned authors. This collection of finalists' fiction celebrates Maori writing, introduces new talent and gives an opportunity for Maori writers to shine.