Our Ethics
Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi
The Museum's ethical practice is founded on honouring the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This commitment is expressed through Whanaungatanga (relationships), Kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and Taonga Tukuiho (intergenerational knowledge), guiding us to work in active, reciprocal partnership with mana whenua and hapū. We affirm our shared responsibility is to uphold the cultural integrity of all our collections and strengthen the relationship between Tangata Whenua and Tangata Tiriti.
Our Principles (Ngā Mātāpono)
Whanaungatanga / Relationships
Whanaungatanga sits at the heart of the Museum's core principles. The creation, exhibition, and guardianship of our collection and tāonga are deeply rooted in working relationships between hapū, stakeholders, and mana whenua. The Museum is committed to a collaborative and reciprocal process that honors our collective aspirations, provides an authentic experience for visitors, and actively strengthens ties between Tangata Tiriti and Tangata Whenua.
Kaitiakitanga / Guardianship
As Kaitiaki (guardians), the Museum recognises its responsibility to care for taonga in culturally appropriate ways, ensuring the mana (prestige and spiritual authority) of our collection is maintained. This role combines museum best practice with Tikanga Tiaki Taonga (Māori protocols for care), requiring us to work closely with hapū and experts to ensure the highest standards are upheld.
Taonga Tukuiho / Intergenerational Transmission
This concept reflects the intergenerational importance of preserving, caring for, and disseminating knowledge and taonga in culturally appropriate ways, which includes the goal of reuniting whānau with their taonga. The Museum affirms its ethical commitment to honoring the cultural integrity of our collections, ensuring that historical narratives and knowledge are preserved and passed on for future generations.
