This practical guide to culturally responsive teaching practice in the tertiary sector is designed to support kaiako (teachers) to reconfigure the teacher/learner dynamic and question old habits, with a view to embracing kaupapa Māori and diversity. Step by step, Ngā Hau e Whā o Tāwhirimātea explores core Māori values that can be used to enhance kaiako effectiveness and relationships with students – Māori and non-Māori alike – including:

Manaakitanga – Ethic of care

Whanaungatanga – Relationships

Kotahitanga – Unity

Rangatiratanga – Student agency and leadership

Working at their own pace, kaiako can engage with Māori students and stakeholders to co-develop learning outcomes, processes and assessments that support student success in the tertiary environment. Ngā Hau e Whā o Tāwhirimātea can be used in a cycle of reflective practice, drawing on past experience and feedback from colleagues and community to develop cultural competence and confidence in tertiary learning spaces.

Grateful acknowledgement is made to Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga for its provision of a Publications Support Grant, which enabled this book to be produced as an open access digital resource.