In a rapidly evolving digital world, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies are reshaping industries.
But how do these innovations intersect with Te Ao Māori?
Can AI, often seen as a tool of the future, align with the deeply relational and value-based principles of Te Ao Māori?
Maybe the answer lies in how we choose to use it—and how we make it work for us.
The Potential of AI in Māori Procurement
At Puna Awarau, we’ve been reflecting on how AI could complement the work we do with Māori businesses, particularly in procurement. While we’re not AI experts, we see potential in how it could enhance our efforts and offer new ways to approach challenges.
We’ve already seen that AI can help identify emerging procurement opportunities by analysing trends and gaps in the market, supporting businesses in bid writing. Tools already exist to refine procurement strategies, create tender documents and streamline contract awarding processes (although many of us don’t use them yet).
We can see that AI has the potential to complement the work we’re already doing, providing a powerful tool to help Māori businesses remain competitive and thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Staying True to Māori values
While AI offers powerful tools, how we ensure we maintain Māori values should be approached with care. Technology can’t be a one-size-fits-all solution—it needs to adapt to and uphold Māori values.
This could look like:
1. Manaakitanga: AI systems focused on transparency, fairness, and community engagement to ensure they support Māori aspirations in a meaningful way.
2. Kaitiakitanga: Data about Māori businesses should be treated with the same care as a taonga, collected, stored, and used ethically for the benefit of future generations.
3. Whanaungatanga: Collaboration will be key—bringing together data scientists, iwi, and Māori business leaders to design solutions that reflect shared goals.
The Opportunity
The challenge lies in bridging the gap between two worlds: the computational precision of AI and the relational, interconnected worldview of te ao Māori. If approached thoughtfully, this integration could amplify Te Ao Māori—helping Māori businesses find success on their own terms in a data-driven economy.
At its core, success might not just come from adopting AI—but from doing so in a way that is pono (true) and tika (right). It’s about using technology as a tool to support Māori leadership, creativity, and values, not replace them. The potential for AI lies in its ability to balance the demands of a modern economy with the values of people, planet, and purpose.
We’ve noticed that many Māori businesses are already exploring AI tools, including our own, with a keen interest in how data and technology can support mahi. There are likely already businesses out there using AI to enhance their work—whether that’s in procurement, social impact, or sustainability—and this potential is only growing.
As Māori businesses continue to grow, the integration of AI tools could open exciting possibilities. It’s not just about staying competitive in a data-driven world; it’s about using technology in a way that respects our past, empowers our present, and creates a legacy for future generations.
By blending innovation with kaupapa, Māori businesses could lead the way—showing that success in the digital age doesn’t have to come at the expense of our values.
