Learning note | 23 Feb 2026
Principles from the Maori
A reflection on Te Ao Maori ideas about interconnection, fairness, stewardship, and community, and how these principles influence how I think about professional conduct and long-term value creation.
Core framing
Nature and people: Te Ao Maori emphasises the interconnection between people, ancestors, land, and the natural world.
Community orientation: Bring ancestors and communities together.
Tikanga: what is just and fair.
Matapono principles
What I learned + how I apply it
Whakapapa
One generation is layered upon another; just transition behaviour and action.
In my work
I think long-term and consider how today's decisions affect future teams and outcomes.
Rangatiratanga
Act in the best interests of the community to help secure long-term benefits.
In my work
I aim to make decisions that are responsible for the team, not only optimal for me.
Kaitiakitanga
Leave the environment in a good or better state for future generations.
In my work
In work, this translates to leaving code, processes, and documentation better than I found them.
Mauri
The life force within a system that supports interconnected vitality.
In my work
I pay attention to system health and team energy, not just visible outputs.
Mana
Customary authority, status, power, or stance.
In my work
I think carefully about ownership, responsibility, and the impact of leadership behavior.
Manaakitanga
Caring for the needs of others and showing kindness.
In my work
I value respectful collaboration, support, and clear communication under pressure.
Oranga
Wellness, wellbeing, and the good health of people and environments.
In my work
Sustainable performance matters more than short bursts that create burnout.
Kotahitanga
Oneness or unity.
In my work
I try to align people around shared goals, especially in cross-functional work.
Whanaungatanga
Building relationships and making connections.
In my work
Trust and relationships are part of execution quality, not separate from it.
Treaty principles
Participation | Protection | Partnership
Participation
People should be included in decisions and processes that affect them.
Protection
People, knowledge, and environments should be safeguarded and treated with care.
Partnership
Work should be done with others in genuine collaboration, not only consultation.