Wairua Digital Kaitiakitanga
What is Kaitiakitanga?
Kaitiakitanga embodies the Māori principles of guardianship, protection, and stewardship. At Wairua Digital, this concept guides how we approach the creation and management of digital experiences. We act as kaitiaki (guardians) of the data, tools, and technologies we use, ensuring they are handled in ways that honor tikanga (Māori customs and protocols).
As tangata whenua (people of the land), we recognize the importance of sharing knowledge and tools while safeguarding the integrity of our cultural values in the digital realm. Our ability to innovate and grow as tangata whenua must be protected from digital colonization, ensuring that our mana (authority, power, and prestige) over digital resources is retained.
The Wairua Digital Kaitiakitanga License is a living framework. It will evolve to support indigenous digital sovereignty while embracing responsible and respectful digital practices.
Principles of Kaitiakitanga at Wairua Digital
Protection of Data and Intellectual Property
- All data and intellectual property entrusted to Wairua Digital remains under the mana of its rightful owners.
- We will not engage in activities that violate Māori Data Sovereignty Principles, such as surveillance, data mining, or unauthorized use of data for purposes inconsistent with tikanga.
Responsible Use of Digital Tools and Resources
- Our tools and services are designed to empower clients while respecting cultural boundaries and customs.
- We will not use or develop tools that perpetuate inequity, discrimination, or the extraction of Māori knowledge or resources without consent.
Upholding Tikanga in Digital Spaces
- Wairua Digital integrates tikanga into the development of websites and digital solutions, ensuring that they reflect the values of guardianship, community, and sustainability.
- We strive to create digital spaces that honor Māori traditions, narratives, and aspirations.
Scope of Kaitiakitanga
Kaitiakitanga of Client Data
- All client data handled by Wairua Digital is treated with utmost care and confidentiality, in line with both legal obligations and the values of kaitiakitanga.
- Clients retain full authority over their data, and no data is shared or used beyond the agreed scope of a project.
Kaitiakitanga of Digital Outputs
- The ownership of websites, code, and digital assets produced by Wairua Digital remains with the client, unless otherwise agreed upon.
- Wairua Digital retains the right to showcase completed projects in portfolios or marketing materials, subject to client approval.
A Living Commitment
This Kaitiakitanga Statement is a living document. It will grow and adapt as our understanding of digital guardianship evolves, serving as a model for culturally respectful and responsible practices in the digital space.
Learn More
To learn more about kaitiakitanga and its application in digital contexts, contact us or explore resources at Te Mana Raraunga.
Copyright
The Wairua Digital Kaitiakitanga Statement is a reflection of our values and commitments. It is shared with the intention of fostering understanding and collaboration, while retaining the cultural integrity of its principles.