Conceptualizing indigenous food sovereignty in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Objectives To explore how revitalization of mahinga kai practices (traditional foodways) in Aotearoa New Zealand can advance wellbeing, socioeconomic equity, and food sovereignty for Māori (the indigenous peoples).

Background Food sovereignty resonates strongly with many indigenous peoples, including Māori, yet its meaning is not always clear. This research sought to understand aspirations for indigenous food sovereignty and identify actionable strategies that can be supported through research, policy, and tribal initiatives.

Methods Guided by Kaupapa Māori research principles, the study comprised two phases. Phase 1 involved a focus group exploring whānau Māori experiences of a māra kai (community garden) initiative in relation to wellbeing. Phase 2 examined perspectives and values concerning mahinga kai and food sovereignty. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify shared meanings and practices.

Results Three themes identified explained how mahinga kai advances Māori wellbeing: Reclaiming mātauranga (restoring food knowledge and practices disrupted by colonization), Reconnection to ancestral whenua (strengthening whakapapa links between people, ancestors, and land), and Restoration of Papatūānuku (nurturing the earth mother to sustain current and future generations). Food sovereignty was understood not as a return to pre‑European diets, but as an adaptive system that honors tikanga Māori while embracing contemporary realities. Traditional foods remain culturally significant, yet mahinga kai also incorporates introduced species, reflecting that cultural meaning lies in how food is produced, shared, and sustained within Māori values and knowledge systems. The Mahinga Kai Framework: Enacting Food Sovereignty was developed, which organizes principles and outcomes into four interconnected domains: cultural identity, environmental stewardship, system‑level participation, and healthy everyday lifestyles. Together, these domains illustrate how mahinga kai sustains oranga (health and wellbeing).

Conclusions Mahinga kai emerged as a living expression of food sovereignty, deeply grounded in cultural values yet responsive to contemporary realities. The framework demonstrates its potential to advance wellbeing and equity.