In Aotearoa New Zealand, the number of Māori psychologists increased from 93 to 125 between 2018 and 2023—representing just 6% of the profession. This numerical gap reflects longstanding structural challenges, including the continued dominance of Western paradigms in psychological training and practice, and the limited recognition of Indigenous knowledge systems. This panel positions Indigenous knowledge systems as foundational—not supplementary—to the future of psychology in Aotearoa. Drawing on Māori knowledge - mātauranga Māori and ancestral practices, we explore how Indigenous methodologies offer transformative potential for psychological theory, education, and care. Māori flourishing beyond survival is achievable when psychology is reimagined through relational, land-based, and spiritually grounded frameworks.
Our transdisciplinary approach integrates psychology, education, and Indigenous epistemologies. We present a data-informed analysis of Māori workforce trends and highlight structural barriers that continue to limit Indigenous participation. We also showcase visionary models where karakia (ritual incantation), wairuatanga (spirituality), and ancestral guidance are embedded in therapeutic and academic spaces.
Aligned with ICAP 2026's commitment to societal applications and sustainable development, we propose that Indigenous psychology is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly those related to health and wellbeing, quality education, and reduced inequalities.