Tātaiako: for teachers of Māori learners
Tātaiako is a resource that helps teachers build cultural competence so they can teach Māori learners in ways that are respectful, effective, and grounded in te ao Māori.
On this page
What is Tātaiako for?
Tātaiako provides a guide for teachers, their employers, Initial Teacher Education providers and providers of on-going teacher professional learning to think about what it takes to successfully teach Māori learners.
It is a starting point for schools and early childhood education services to develop cultural competence. It is most effective when whānau, hapū and iwi work together with schools and services to determine the cultural competencies that are particular to their communities.
Culturally responsive teachers see themselves as learners too. They work in partnership with whānau and make decisions together. Tātaiako supports this journey by helping teachers understand what matters from a Māori perspective.
Download a digital copy of Tātaiako
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The five competencies
Tātaiako outlines five key competencies that guide culturally responsive teaching for Māori learners:
Wānanga - Engaging in meaningful conversations with learners and communities to support Māori achievement.
Whanaungatanga - Building strong, respectful relationships with Māori learners, whānau, hapū, iwi, and the wider Māori community.
Manaakitanga - Showing genuine care, respect, and integrity towards Māori beliefs, language, and culture.
Tangata Whenuatanga - Affirming Māori learners as Māori. Creating learning environments where their identity, language, and culture are valued.
Ako - Taking responsibility for your own learning and supporting the learning of Māori students.
Stay connected: My Rawa
My Rawa helps you deepen your practice with tailored professional learning and reflective tools. It’s your space to grow, stay inspired, and lead with confidence.
