Tribunal report confirms curriculum reforms breached Treaty principles
The Waitangi Tribunal's findings on the Government's curriculum reforms confirm many of the concerns raised by Māori educators, curriculum experts, and the wider education sector throughout the reform process.
PPTA Te Wehengarua was an interested party in the inquiry and provided evidence to the Tribunal regarding both the process and substance of the curriculum changes.
The Tribunal found the Crown breached multiple Treaty principles, including partnership, active protection, equity, and good government. It concluded that significant curriculum changes were implemented without meaningful engagement with Māori, without sufficient evidence that the reforms would improve outcomes for Māori learners, and despite strong opposition from Māori and education sector stakeholders.
PPTA Te Wehengarua President Chris Abercrombie said the findings raise serious questions about how the reforms were developed and implemented.
"The Tribunal has found that these changes were pursued without genuine partnership with Māori and without robust evidence that they would address educational inequity. Those findings should concern anyone committed to achieving equitable outcomes for all learners."
The Tribunal's report highlights concerns about the reduced emphasis on te reo Māori, tikanga Māori, mātauranga Māori, and local histories within the curriculum, and the impact this may have on Māori learners, whānau, iwi, and kura.
"The curriculum refresh that preceded these changes was characterised by collaboration and co-design. The Tribunal has made it clear that partnership is the key to building trust and creating an education system that serves all communities."
Mr Abercrombie said the report should prompt the Government to reconsider its approach to both curriculum development and the replacement of NCEA.
"Teachers want a curriculum and qualifications system that reflects Aotearoa New Zealand, honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and is informed by those most affected by it. We support the Tribunal's recommendation that the Crown recommit to genuine partnership with Māori in the design and implementation of curriculum policy."
PPTA Te Wehengarua hopes the Government will carefully consider the Tribunal's findings and recommendations as it continues work on curriculum and qualifications reform.
Last modified on Thursday, 17 September 2026 16:42