Manaakitanga
One of the fundamental principles in Māori culture, manaakitanga is the enactment of mana-enhancing behaviour towards others. It is a measurement of people’s ability to extend kindness and generosity. The concept of manaakitanga includes understanding tapu sacredness and mana dignity. In our relationships, we are acutely aware of our mana and the mana of others.

Whanaungatanga
The people are our wealth. Whanaungatanga is about being part of a larger whole. Māori are related to all living things and thus express whanaungatanga with their surroundings. Whanaungatanga is about knowing you are not alone, but that you have a wider set of connections that provide support, assistance, nurturing, guidance and direction when needed. Understanding of roles and responsibilities is also part of whanaungatanga. Whanaungatanga embodies the ambitions of collectivism. Interdependence with each other rather than independence is the goal.

Rangatiratanga
Rangatiratanga describes the attributes of a rangatira leader and how these are given expression through humility, diplomacy, generosity, resilience and empowerment. We understand the importance of practicing what you preach, walking the talk, following through on commitments made, integrity and honesty.

Kotahitanga
Is focused on developing and maintaining a unity of purpose and direction and avoiding approaches and decisions that lead to division and disharmony. A commitment through oneness of mind and action to achieving its vision emulates the practice of Kotahitanga. All are encouraged to make their contribution and to have their say. It is the consensus of the collective that determines what is best for the group.

Wairuatanga
Wairuatanga is about understanding and believing that there is a spiritual existence in addition to the physical. The physical world is represented by Te Ao Mārama which is surrounded by and connected to the spiritual realm. We represent these realms within us as we intimately connect spiritually to our environment. The wairua of a person requires nourishment and the forms of nourishment differ among people. Wairuatanga refers to how we feel rather than how we think. Wairuatanga is about understanding your divine self.

Kaitiakitanga
Kaitiakitanga can be described as guardianship, protection or preservation. Māori traditionally believe there is a deep kinship between humans and the natural world. People are not superior to the natural order; they are part of it. All life is connected and to understand the world, one must understand the connections and relationships within it. Kaitiakitanga is a vehicle for rediscovering and applying these ideas.

Getting it right
It is sometimes hard to really understand if your actions are for the right reason and if they keep to your values.

Are my thinking, actions, and reactions really meeting my values? are they …

• Tika – doing what is right

• Aroha – showing empathy and genuine concern

• Pono – have integrity and trustworthiness

• Hono – have the connection and collaboration

• Tangata – have the value and benefit to others (all)