A journey through Te Aranga Māori design principles

Engaging mana whenua in the design and construction process not only ensures that Māori values are authentically represented, but also strengthens the connection between the building, iwi and the community it serves. By acknowledging mana whenua authority (Tino Rangatiratanga), we embed their leadership in governance and decision-making, ensuring that the design outcomes are guided by Māori perspectives, rather than simply influenced by them.

One of the most rewarding aspects of embedding Te Ao Māori in architectural projects is how culture, history and place come together. From the outset of the planning process, we focus on weaving these elements into the design. It’s about creating environments that carry real meaning. By integrating features that reflect local iwi, landscapes and histories, we help foster a deep sense of pride and belonging within the community. Every place holds its own whakapapa—genealogical connections linking people, land and history—reinforcing a sense of belonging and cultural continuity for future generations.

In Māori culture, the built environment represents the relationship between people, land and ancestors. By incorporating elements like maunga (mountains), awa (rivers), and rohe (territories), architecture can embody the connections that tie a community to its land and heritage. This creates a sense of belonging and cultural resonance.

Tohu—cultural and geographic markers—serve as anchors for identity, offering tangible links to ancestral landscapes. Integrating these into wayfinding, paving patterns, and building orientation strengthens the spatial connection to place.

The materials and finishes we select for co-design projects are inspired by Māori art and craftsmanship (Mahi Toi). Whether it’s the intricate carvings or woven patterns in fabrics and flooring, each detail is a conscious reflection of Māori cultural practices. The result is a space that goes beyond functionality and becomes a living, breathing part of the community, telling its story through artistry and heritage, and providing an intergenerational connection for mana whenua.

Our recent work on the Whangārei Māori Land Court (Te Kooti Whenua Māori) featured a carved judge’s bench inspired by the kākahu, the traditional cloak worn by Māori judges, crafted by local artist Carin Wilson. Fine details like woven patterns on chair fabrics, meeting room windows, ceilings, and floors, which reflect heke (rafters) and Māori weaving traditions, were integrated into the overall design. These elements bring the courthouse to life, ensuring that Māori identity is not only acknowledged but embedded within the fabric of the building.

A well-designed space can influence the psychological and emotional well-being of its users, especially in high-stress environments like a courthouse. The Te Aranga Principles focus on creating spaces that promote healing, connection and peace, which can be achieved by using biophilic design that incorporates natural elements like light, views of nature, and access to open spaces.

Civic buildings can also include community spaces that serve multiple functions, such as meeting rooms, whanau (family) spaces, or educational areas, which can host community programmes or cultural events.

The way a space is designed, constructed and maintained should enhance mauri (life force) rather than diminish it. Spaces should be created to uplift and restore, incorporating features like natural airflow, sensory materials, and quiet reflection areas that support wairua (spiritual wellbeing).

Ahi kā—the ongoing presence of mana whenua—is important for the long-term success of culturally grounded spaces. This principle extends beyond the design phase, ensuring spaces remain active and meaningful. Ahi kā is sustained through formal partnerships with mana whenua for the ongoing use and maintenance of spaces, cultural programming, and support for traditional practices like weaving, carving and wānanga (a place of learning).

By embracing the Te Aranga Māori Design Principles, we have the opportunity to enhance the cultural richness of our projects and build spaces that inspire and resonate with the communities they serve. As we continue to integrate these principles into our work, we’re reminded that design isn’t just about buildings—it’s about the people, stories and land that bind us all together.

As a Technical Director at GHD Design, Colette focuses on integrating Te Ao Māori into Architecture, Interiors and Landscape Design. With over 25 years of experience as a Registered Architect, she is based in Tauranga Moana and has strong whakapapa connections to Tahuna and Waiti marae in the Waikato. Colette is passionate about creating meaningful co-designed projects that honour Māori culture and values.

Currently, Colette is working on co-design initiatives with the Ministry of Justice and Waikato-Tainui, while also sharing her knowledge of the Te Aranga Design principles to promote more culturally responsive and sustainable designs across Aotearoa New Zealand.