About Us

AATEA was founded in March 2000. Directors Hinerangi Edwards and Kiwa Hammond wanted to be part of a global community where every day of every year, people celebrated diversity and built an abundant and prosperous world. The name AATEA comes from the term 'marae aatea' - which is the name for the courtyard area immediately in front of traditional wharenui or meeting houses. Throughout Aotearoa, and indeed Polynesia, the 'marae' was considered a place of action for discussion and activities in order to understand and agree on strategies for survival.

AATEA is about seeking and providing clarity to progress confidently into the future. It's a philosophical position that is located within a kaupapa Maori inquiry paradigm and is expressed in the following statement:  

AATEA was born from a perceived need for quality kaupapa Maori communication services within and between a variety of organisations, agencies, communities and businesses. To explain this briefly 'kaupapa Maori' is anything that is identifiably 'Maori' in its nature or is perceived to have distinctly Maori origins or meanings. It is our firm belief that Maori conceptual frameworks have the potential to empower all people to either effect positive change or develop ways to complement or enhance their lives.

AATEA does not presume or wish to offer 'the' Maori perspective on the many complex issues which individuals, organisations, communities or businesses may face.The objective of our work is to increase awareness and understanding of Maori concepts and philosophies within the context of the workplace and ones personal life.