Te Ara Matihiko, "the digital pathway," looks at how generative artificial intelligence can be shaped by and for Māori.
The project is grounded in intergenerational storytelling. It will explore how pūrākau, kōrero tuku iho and the voices of kaumātua, whānau, rangatahi can inform the design of generative AI models.
The goal is models that reflect Māori worldviews, uphold tikanga and Māori data sovereignty, and support the revitalisation of te reo Māori. By centring whānau knowledge and relationships, the research aims to make sure Māori are shaping digital futures rather than just using them. It will also produce culturally grounded frameworks for developing AI responsibly in Aotearoa.
The project is supported by a Mana Tūāpapa Future Leader Fellowship of $820,000 from Royal Society Te Apārangi.