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Effective 20 April 2026, the numbering of the curriculum criteria has changed. There have been no changes to the curriculum criteria wording or associated guidance.
Criterion C305#
The service curriculum acknowledges and reflects the unique place of Māori as tangata whenua. Children are given the opportunity to develop knowledge and an understanding of the cultural heritages of both parties to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Curriculum criteria documentation required
Guidance#
Te Tiriti o Waitangi plays a significant role in the revitalisation of Māori language and culture, an important part of Aotearoa New Zealand culture. Early childhood services are a vital link to ensuring all New Zealand children, regardless of ethnicity, are given the opportunity to learn about and experience, in a very real way, both Pākeha and Māori culture.
Te Whāriki is a bilingual, bicultural document which reflects Māori views of children’s learning and development and includes many strategies for implementing bicultural programmes.
The service curriculum will be developed in partnership with Māori to foster the learning of and provide genuine opportunities for participation and quality outcomes for Māori children. Programmes will support the revitalisation of te reo and tikanga Māori.
