It is widely recognised that when kura auraki (mainstream schools) form genuine partnerships with mana whenua and embed culturally responsive practices, Māori student engagement and achievement improves (Bishop et al., Te Kōtahitanga; Ministry of Education, Ka Hikitia). Non-Māori students also benefit through deeper connection to place, stronger critical thinking, and greater empathy across cultures (Alton-Lee, 2003; Macfarlane et al., 2019).

We are committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi through partnership with mana whenua, as kaitiaki of mātauranga, place, and people. We recognise that meaningful research must reflect the aspirations, values, and mātauranga of iwi and hapū.

This strand of our research centre focuses on collaborative projects with mana whenua. These partnerships uphold tikanga, elevate local narratives, and support outcomes that matter for whānau, hapū, and iwi. They also enrich place-based learning and cultural understanding across our kura, strengthening achievement for Māori students while deepening the educational experience for all.