Cultural dimensions of Indigenous trade: A summary of te ao Māori value frameworks

Abstract

This working paper, part of the MBIE-funded ‘Tauhokohoko’ research project, investigates how Māori frameworks for wellbeing and economic development can inform the creation of a transformative Indigenous trade model. The project seeks to define Indigenous trade and its potential to reshape trade policy, enabling mana motuhake (self-determination) and fostering climate-resilient, holistic wellbeing (waiora).

Key Context and Approach

Global economic systems often prioritise profit over cultural and environmental values. In contrast, Māori trade integrates cultural principles to support community and ecological flourishing. This paper analyses thirteen distinct Māori wellbeing and economic development frameworks—from government, academic, and iwi sources—to identify common values, outcomes, and indicators. These are mapped against the project’s three core outcome areas: Mana Motuhake, Huanga (benefits), and Waiora.

Core Findings: A Coherent, Values-Based Paradigm

Despite diverse origins, the frameworks reveal a remarkably consistent and robust philosophical foundation that challenges conventional economics. Key recurring principles include:

• Rangatiratanga / Mana Motuhake: The right and responsibility for self-determination is central. This extends beyond political autonomy to Māori-led governance of economic, social, and cultural pathways, ensuring trade policies are by and for Māori.

• Holistic Huanga (Benefits): Success is defined multi-dimensionally, encompassing cultural vitality, social cohesion, environmental health, and spiritual wellbeing alongside economic prosperity. Models like the Economy of Mana emphasise reciprocity and wealth distribution for the collective good, contrasting with individualistic, profitmaximising paradigms.

• Kaitiakitanga (Guardianship): The economy is embedded within an ecological context. Sustainability is an ethical imperative at the core of economic practice, demanding trade that protects natural resources for future generations.

• Relationality (e.g., Whanaungatanga): Economic activity is seen as a means to build and strengthen respectful, long-term relationships and kinship networks, moving beyond purely transactional partnerships.

Implications for an Indigenous Trade Framework

The analysis demonstrates that a transformative Indigenous trade framework must be built on this values-based foundation. It requires:

1. Māori Leadership: Policies must be driven by Māori to actualise mana motuhake.

2. Broad Measurement: New systems are needed to capture the full spectrum of cultural, social, environmental, and economic benefits (huanga).

3. Values-Based Practice: Trade must operationalise principles like kaitiakitanga and whanaungatanga to ensure sustainability and foster respectful partnerships.

Conclusion

The reviewed frameworks provide a proven philosophical guide and practical indicators for building an alternative trade system. They show that an economically viable, culturally affirming, and environmentally sustainable model is not only possible but deeply rooted in te ao Māori. The Tauhokohoko project’s challenge and opportunity is to translate this rich knowledge into actionable trade policy that delivers holistic wellbeing for Indigenous peoples and offers a constructive alternative for the global community.