Equity guides who we work with, how we work, and the kind of change we aim to create.
The Equity Pou is central to Kai West’s work, ensuring that food system transformation is fair, inclusive, and grounded in justice.
This pou focuses on:
Supporting initiatives that uphold Te Ao Māori approaches to kai sovereignty.
Understanding the needs of diverse communities and ensuring they are included in the kai kaupapa.
Recognising the common and unique needs of mana whenua and tangata whenua, and actively adapting our collective actions to support their aspirations.
Equity is essential for centering community voices, addressing structural barriers, nurturing inclusion and belonging, and strengthening collective action. By embedding equity into every aspect of the food system—from growing and sharing kai to policy and planning—we support resilient, connected communities where wellbeing, sovereignty, and justice are shared by all.
As part of our Equity Pou, Kai West is committed to weaving Mana Motuhake o te Kai principles and the mana of Pasifika practices throughout our mahi, in a way that honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi and creates opportunities for growth in understanding, skills, and the celebration of local food systems, Māori, and Pasifika wisdom.
Our Key Goals Include:
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Strengthening relationships and connection.
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Working together across our communities.
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Supporting one another with knowledge, tools, and skills.
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Aligning our efforts for collective impact.
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Shaping our mahi as we grow together
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Tikanga
Values and practices that guide how we work together.
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Whanaungatanga
Building meaningful relationships and connections.
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Kotahitanga
Unity and collective purpose
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Tangata
Inclusivity and centring people and communities in all we do.
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Kaitiakitanga
Guardianship of people, land, and resources.
