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Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori Paora Ammunson says this marks a renewed commitment to working together as active partners, building on a relationship that has developed over many generations.

“Massey and Rangitāne, as mana whenua, aren’t strangers to one another. We’ve been working together over many generations, with many of our academics and leaders connected to both the university and Rangitāne,” he says.

While the signing marks an important milestone, Mr Ammunson says the Kawenata is ultimately about action and how the partnership is lived in practice.

“Today formalises and refreshes that relationship, but what’s more important than the signing is the doing. This is about being active partners with each other.”

Rangitāne o Manawatū Settlement Group representative Debbie Te Puni says the Kawenata acknowledges the long journey both organisations have taken together and the shared values that underpin the agreement.

“It’s a privilege to be here today to formalise an agreement that is grounded in mutual values, aspirations and respect.”

The partnership is already operating on the ground — with the Rangitāne back-office team, Taumata Hou now established at the Massey courtyard complex, and both parties actively collaborating on whenua and environmental kaupapa. The Kawenata also provides a clear framework for this work, setting shared expectations and guiding how both parties work together as the programme develops.

Ms Te Puni says the timing of the Kawenata reflects both the long history between Rangitāne and Massey and a recent alignment of priorities across education, research and leadership. She notes that while the agreement sits with the Rangitāne Settlement Trust, it creates space for wider engagement.

“There is room for other Rangitāne entities, organisations and hapū to have relationships with Massey. This isn’t an exclusive arrangement — it’s about enabling connection.”

Mr Ammunson acknowledged the leadership and support of former Deputy Vice Chancellor Māori Professor Meihana Durie and Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas, which he says helped to bring the Kawenata to fruition.

Next steps include developing a shared work programme that will build on work already underway, prioritising Māori student success.