5 Ways Māori Values Are Shaping the Future of Business

Let’s face it—business as we know it is changing. People are craving more than profits, spreadsheets, and hustle culture. They want a connection. Purpose. Integrity. And guess what? Māori have been walking that path for generations.

Across Aotearoa, Māori values are reshaping how business is done. These aren’t trendy slogans or PR strategies. They’re deeply rooted cultural principles that guide decision-making, relationships, and long-term thinking. And now, they’re influencing everyone—from startups to corporations—because they make sense.

So, what happens when businesses put people before profits, the planet before perks, and community before competition? Let’s dive into five Māori values transforming the way we do business—and why the world’s finally ready for them.

Rangatiratanga: Leadership That Lifts Everyone

In most boardrooms, leadership is top-down. But Māori leadership—rangatiratanga—is all about serving, not ruling. It's about collective responsibility, not individual power trips.

In Māori business, leaders aren’t the loudest in the room—they're the ones building up everyone around them. They consult. They listen. They act with integrity because they know their decisions affect generations, not just next quarter's profits.

And this approach? It works. Teams feel seen, communities feel respected, and businesses earn real trust. Because when people feel part of something bigger, they show up differently.

If you’re wondering what authentic leadership looks like, start with rangatiratanga—it’s leadership with heart.

Manaakitanga: Where Business Meets Care

Ever walked into a place and instantly felt welcome? That’s manaakitanga at work. It’s the art of hospitality, generosity, and uplifting others.

But this isn’t surface-level customer service—it’s a mindset. It shapes how you treat your staff, your clients, your community. It’s checking in on your team’s wellbeing, supporting local causes, and doing business in a way that leaves people feeling better, not just richer.

Māori businesses live and breathe manaakitanga. And the ripple effect? Happier teams, loyal customers, and stronger communities.

In a world full of “buy now” messages, manaakitanga is the one that makes people stay.

Kaitiakitanga: Business That Gives Back to the Earth

If sustainability was a trend, Māori would be its original pioneers. Kaitiakitanga means guardianship—especially over the land, water, and all living things. It’s the belief that we’re caretakers, not owners.

So, how does that translate into business? Think regenerative farming instead of mass production. Think eco-conscious packaging, zero-waste goals, and ethical sourcing—not because it’s marketable, but because it’s the right thing to do.

Māori-led organisations are proving that it’s possible to grow your business while protecting the whenua (land). And more businesses—both here and globally—are following their lead.

Because let's be honest: no business can thrive on a dying planet.

Whanaungatanga: Relationships Over Transactions

Here’s something we all know deep down—relationships matter. And in Māori culture, whanaungatanga is all about building and nurturing those connections.

It’s not “networking.” It’s knowing who you are, where you’re from, and who you’re walking with. In business, this means building strong partnerships, supporting your team, and knowing you are part of something bigger.

When whanaungatanga is front and centre, deals aren’t just signed—they’re built on trust. Teams don’t just collaborate—they uplift each other. And clients don’t just buy—they believe in you.

In a world racing toward automation and AI, whanaungatanga brings humans back to business.

Mauri Ora: Putting People Before Profits

Let’s talk about mauri ora—the wellbeing and vitality of individuals and communities. In a typical business model, people are “resources.” In a Māori worldview, people are sacred.

Mauri ora reminds us that burnout isn’t a badge of honour. That mental health matters. That workspaces should lift people up, not wear them down.

Māori values in businesses help create safe spaces for people. In these places, te reo Māori is spoken. Cultural holidays are celebrated, and whānau (family) is prioritised. And when people feel seen and supported, guess what? They thrive. And so does the business.

Because success without wellbeing? That’s not success—it’s survival.

Conclusion: The Future of Business is Indigenous-Led

Māori values aren’t just relevant—they’re revolutionary. They challenge outdated business norms and offer a new blueprint: one that centres people, protects the planet, and creates lasting impact.

Māori principles can help you. This is true whether you are a start-up founder, a corporate leader, or simply tired of the usual way of doing business. Principles like rangatiratanga, manaakitanga, kaitiakitanga, whanaungatanga, and mauri ora offer a new approach.

A better way.

One where success is shared. Where relationships matter. Where the future is something we nurture, not exploit.

So if you’re building something, build it with values that last. Because when a business has a soul, everyone wins.

• Do I need to be Māori to apply these values in my business?

  Not at all. Māori values are universal in spirit. The key is to approach them with respect, humility, and genuine intention.

• What’s the best way to start integrating Māori values?

  Start by building authentic relationships with Māori communities or advisors. Listen. Learn. Let values guide action, not just branding.

• Are there examples of Māori values succeeding in big business?

  Yes! Many iwi-led organisations and Māori enterprises are leading in sustainability, governance, and community development, with impressive economic returns.

• How do Māori values affect workplace culture?

  They foster connection, safety, and purpose. Employees feel valued, heard, and motivated because the culture is people-first.

• Can embracing these values improve business performance?

  Absolutely. Values-based business builds loyalty, trust, and long-term resilience, which are more potent than short-term wins.