New Zealand’s Values, Our Ngā Mātāpono

Māori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand, have four concepts that represent how New Zealanders see the world and how others experience us.

These concepts – Pōtikitanga (Ingenuity), Tiaki (Care), Manaaki (Respect), and Pono (Integrity) – capture the spirit of our nation. They reflect both the qualities we aspire to and the real experiences people have when they encounter New Zealanders around the world.  

Haere mai, welcome. Find out more about what makes us unique.  

Pōtikitanga

Pōtikitanga speaks to our curious and adventurous spirit. In New Zealand, we’re encouraged to think differently and challenge convention, a mindset that has produced a legacy of world‑changing ideas and creative solutions. Inspired by the concept of the pōtiki, the youngest child, who asks why, pushes boundaries, and sees new possibilities, this value reflects the ingenuity that drives us.  

Tiaki

Tiaki expresses our deep commitment to caring for people, place, and planet. It speaks to our responsibility to protect what we value for generations to come, be it the natural environment, the communities we work with, or the global spaces we operate in. As kaitiaki (guardians), New Zealanders take pride in standing up for what matters and looking after the world around us.

Manaaki

Manaaki reflects the warmth with which New Zealanders open our doors to others. It is grounded in the idea of uplifting each other’s mana – our reputation, authority, and sense of identity – through respect, generosity, hospitality, and reciprocity. Strong relationships sit at the heart of how we do business and how we connect with the world. When we welcome others, build trust, and express care, those actions are returned in kind.  

Pono

Pono represents honesty, transparency, and the importance of keeping one’s word. Integrity is a defining trait of how New Zealanders operate. This commitment is reflected in our stable institutions, low corruption levels, and dependable business environment.  

A Shared Story to Take to the World

These four values, rooted in Māori culture, give us a way to tell our story with authenticity and purpose. They demonstrate what we do and why we do it.

Today, Ngā Mātāpono guide how government and businesses represent New Zealand globally, and how we collectively shape our reputation.