Source: PĀNUI PĀPĀHO
Next week, Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland will transform into a hub of Indigenous knowledge, connection and celebration as 3,800 educators and leaders from across Aotearoa and the globe gather for the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE).
Returning to Aotearoa for the first time in 20 years, WIPCE 2025 will provide thought-provoking kōrero, insightful wānanga, panel discussions, presentations, and interactive breakout sessions designed to spark ideas and drive Indigenous knowledge forward.
Hosted by Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makaurau – AUT and iwi manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, the event will be held at the Aotea Centre from 16-20 November.
The conference will open with a pōwhiri (official welcoming) on Sunday 16 November, followed by a ‘Parade of Nations’. Aucklanders will see delegates from more than 20 cultures and every corner of the globe parade Queen Street in their official kākahu (attire) in a colourful celebration of Indigenous pride.
A joint statement released today from the four Co-Chairs of WIPCE 2025 – Dr Noe Noe Wilson-Wong, Dr Bentham Ohia, Professor Damon Salesa, and Professor Meihana Durie – represents a step-change in the kōrero on Indigenous peoples in Aotearoa and around the world.
“As we head into final preparations for WIPCE 2025, we acknowledge the hard work and collective effort that has brought us to this point. WIPCE is about celebrating and affirming a shared sense of Indigenous determination and unity,” say the Co-Chairs.
“WIPCE is also a time to draw inspiration from the power of Indigenous ceremony, language, culture and scholarship and to reimagine the future of Indigenous education through sharing our deepest experiences, our distinctive histories and bold visions for the future. Together, alongside our iwi manaaki of Ngāti Whātua Orākei, we look forward to welcoming manuhiri to Aotearoa and in particular, to Tāmaki Makaurau, a city that is home to the largest number of Pacific peoples in the world.”
WIPCE 2025 Co-Chair, Professor Meihana Durie says the event is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase Indigenous knowledge, scholarship and unity on a global scale.
“Although it is clear that Indigenous rights remain under immense threat, this gathering unites Indigenous educators, scholars and champions from across the world. Amplifying Indigenous voices and aspirations to transcend barriers that limit our collective potential, and more importantly, to achieve transformative inter-generational outcomes for Indigenous education worldwide,” says Durie.
“WIPCE is really about thinking about the future and how we navigate it collectively as Indigenous people. Our greatest strength comes through our unification”.
In addition to the cultural and academic contribution, the conference also brings significant economic benefits to Tāmaki Makaurau, says Tātaki Auckland Unlimited CE Nick Hill.
“WIPCE 2025 has the highest number of attendees ever recorded at an academic conference in New Zealand. The conference is expected to contribute $8.275 million to Auckland’s economy and generate more than 16,600 visitor nights,” explains Nick Hill.
“In addition, this gathering reflects our identity as the world’s largest Māori and Polynesian city, enriched by more than 200 ethnicities. We are committed to sharing knowledge that connects us all.”
The conference features an exceptional line up of Keynote and Guest speakers, including Distinguished Professor Linda Tuhiwai-Smith, Professor Leonie Pihama, Dr Teina Rongo and Actor and Producer Cliff Curtis. Together, they bring diverse perspectives that have helped shape global dialogue on Indigenous rights, decolonisation, education and arts.
For those not attending the conference, Te Ao Pūtahi, a vibrant and free festival at Aotea Square, will offer an immersive experience for the wider community. The event features different ao or ‘worlds’, focusing on culture, food, healing and trade.
Starting on Sunday 16 November, visitors can enjoy kapa haka performances from groups like Ngā Tumanako, with live music from artists including Corrella, Jackson Owens, Betty-Anne and IA. Indigenous stallholders will also be providing free hands-on creative workshops and storytelling sessions, as well as selling kai and gifts.
More information about this year’s kaupapa is on the WIPCE 2025 website, including the themes and programme, keynote speakers, guest speakers, Te Ao Pūtahi free festival and other event information.
