Jacinda Ardern's memoir, *Burnt Orange and Black*, offers a vivid and introspective look into the life of New Zealand's former Prime Minister. The book delves into her personal and political journey, including the support she received from her partner, Clarke Gayford, during her tenure as a mother and leader. Ardern's narrative highlights the emotional and strategic considerations she faced, such as the moment she removed her necklace before stepping into the hallway to address a significant political day. The memoir also touches on her interactions with other political figures, though she avoids naming certain critics, leaving some identities to be inferred by readers. For instance, a detailed description of an MP in Parliament is widely believed to refer to Amy Adams, while another unnamed MP, identified through Hansard, is Nikki Kaye. The book is part of a broader wave of political reflections, with Grant Robertson and David Cohen also set to release their own memoirs. Winston Peters, New Zealand's Foreign Minister, has been active during the recess, engaging in international diplomacy and applying travel bans to Israeli ministers. Meanwhile, domestic political developments include the Reserve Bank's handling of Adrian Orr's resignation and new policies on tourism and migrant visas. The article also touches on the importance of child safety and Māori wellbeing, reflecting on the broader societal impacts of political decisions. Overall, the piece captures the nuanced interplay between personal narrative and public policy, offering readers a comprehensive view of New Zealand's political landscape through the eyes of its key figures.