Focus area 7: Reflect mana whenua mātauranga and Māori design principles throughout Auckland

​Mana whenua contribution through Māori design is a critical component of Auckland's future development.

Since 1840, Māori identity and culture has been minimised in the Auckland landscape.

Through Māori design mātauranga Māori can be placed at the centre of planning, design and development. This offers a holistic approach that creates places and spaces that are welcoming to all, from tamariki and young whānau to kaumātua.

Mana whenua opportunities to influence place-making can reinforce a sense of belonging for generations to come through the expression of their mātauranga and pūrakau in urban design.

Te Aranga Māori design principles provide a way to instil Māori cultural identity in the built landscape, bringing mana whenua to the centre of Auckland's design. Read more about the principles on the Auckland Design Manual website.

There are a number of examples that express the unique forms and benefits of adopting Māori design thinking. One example is Te Oro Music and Arts Centre in Glen Innes, where Māori design is etched into the look, form and function of this community space.

How this can be done

Efforts can focus on:

• providing opportunities for mana whenua to partner, input and influence urban design within Auckland
• requiring the application of Te Aranga Māori design principles in public development
• encouraging greater uptake of Te Aranga Māori design principles in private development
• supporting and advocating opportunities to showcase and protect Auckland's Māori identity, culture and heritage.

Related information

• Auckland Plan 2050 – Full Print Document (PDF 36.6 MB )
• Auckland Plan 2050 - Print document - Māori Identity and Wellbeing (PDF 1.59 MB)