Māori Education Visionary Rāwiri Wright Awarded Honorary Doctorate

Massey University awards Rāwiri Wright an Honorary Doctorate of Education, celebrating his pivotal role in kura kaupapa Māori and te reo revitalisation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 4:20 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

A Champion for Kura Kaupapa Māori

Wright has been a cornerstone of the kura kaupapa Māori movement, serving as the co-chair of Te Rūnanga Nui o Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Aotearoa. His work has centered on the belief that Māori-medium education is not just a choice, but a fundamental right essential to the survival of te reo Māori.

Advocacy and Authority: Wright has consistently pushed for Māori authority in education, challenging dominant narratives and advocating for resources that allow tamariki to flourish within their own identity.

National Impact: His leadership has contributed to the national protection and increased recognition of immersion schooling.

Building the Workforce: The Massey Partnership

The honorary degree specifically acknowledges Wright’s critical role in developing immersion teacher education at Massey’s Te Pūtahi-a-Toi (School of Māori Knowledge). Since 2010, he has been central to the design and delivery of: