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How, if at all, does the Ministry of Education's refreshed curriculum reflect iwi, hapū, and local mātauranga?

Answered Question 5699 (2026)
Question published
Reply lodged

Asked by

Willow-Jean Prime

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • How, if at all, does the Ministry of Education's refreshed curriculum reflect iwi, hapū, and local mātauranga?

Answered by

Hon Erica Stanford

Member for East Coast Bays · National Party · Minister of Education

Answer

The refreshed New Zealand Curriculum recognises New Zealand’s bicultural foundations and reflects te ao Māori in a way that is clear, structured, and nationally consistent. It supports schools to provide opportunities for students to learn tikanga Māori and te reo Māori, while maintaining a strong focus on academic achievement and foundational knowledge. Te Marautanga o Aotearoa is specifically designed for teaching and learning delivered through te reo Māori. The refreshed content provides clarity and strengthens coherence across year levels, while reflecting Māori cultural perspectives, supporting language immersion, and meeting the specific educational needs of ākonga in Māori-medium settings.