The upper class Māori

Abstract

[...] the assumption that Māori are primarily interested in trade or apprenticeship training conforms to old ideas about the kinds of talents, abilities, and interests of Māori. Such a view undermines the so-called ‘progress’ that has been made in our education system, and it continues to communicate to Māori, and the wider population, that as long as Māori have a job, the box has been ticked. Māori have put up with this type of stereotyping for generations. Not only from our most senior leaders, but within the education, health, and justice systems, all of whom have impacted Māori capability and hindered Māori with a lack of self-esteem, courage, and ambition.