Aotearoa’s music scene is massive, and we at Kaitiaki Records — a new (3-year-old) and long-awaited label — are a fresh face bringing you all things jungle and break-related from the deep south of NZ. Expect heavy jungle vibes from an array of talented grassroots NZ artists such as Spook, Getafix, Ali On, Fluid Haunts, and Optics. Kaitiaki Records started as an idea when we felt jungle music wasn’t given a place to shine compared to DnB. So, we decided to create a space for the Junglists of Aotearoa — a safe, creative outlet where they could release music and express who they are as artists. We are a collective, not a single entity. We are all Kaitiaki of our own music; no matter the genre, we remain unique in our expressions yet united under the values we uphold at Kaitiaki Records. Through passion, community support, and love for jungle music, Kaitiaki Records was born. ‘Kaitiaki’ translates to guardian, keeper, or protector. With the suffix ‘tanga’ (as in Kaitiakitanga), it means preservation and protection. Before choosing our name, we went back to the people of the land and sought guidance from a tohunga (expert), who gave their full blessing. ‘Kaitiakitanga’ reflects traditional Māori knowledge and worldviews — values we embrace deeply. Our name represents our commitment to preserve, respect, and celebrate the unique sounds and talents of Aotearoa while upholding Tikanga.