Digital equity initiative Te Ara Hihiko has taken the Supreme Award in the Making a Difference category at the 2025 NZ Compare Awards, recognising its work with Māori and Pasifika communities across New Zealand’s technology sector.
Te Ara Hihiko is the flagship equity and inclusion programme of the Technology Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ). The initiative focuses on digital inclusion for Māori and Pasifika and aims to change how the local tech industry recruits, develops and retains talent from those communities.
The NZ Compare Supreme Award in the Making a Difference category recognises organisations that deliver sustained social impact. Judges selected Te Ara Hihiko for its focus on systemic barriers that affect Māori and Pasifika participation in digital roles.
The programme’s organisers frame digital inclusion as a question of representation and social outcomes, as well as skills and employment.
“This award shines a spotlight on the critical importance of digital inclusion, diversity, and cultural equity in our industry,” said Megan Matthews, Chair and Programmeme Lead for Te Ara Hihiko, TUANZ.
Matthews said the sector’s strength rests on the depth and diversity of its talent base. “Building a sustainable tech sector in Aotearoa is not only about infrastructure or services, it’s fundamentally about people, opportunity and social justice. When we create genuine pathways for Māori and Pasifika talent, we strengthen the entire industry and ensure our digital future truly represents all New Zealanders.”
“On behalf of the entire Te Ara Hihiko team, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to NZ Compare, the judges and everyone who has contributed to this mahi. This achievement belongs especially to our Māori and Pasifika participants and all our supporters who have championed this kaupapa from the beginning,” said Matthews.
Equity-focused pathways
Te Ara Hihiko, which translates as “pathway of energy and inspiration”, sits at the centre of TUANZ’s efforts around equity in the digital economy. The programme focuses on culturally inclusive pathways into digital roles for Māori and Pasifika at different career stages.
The initiative runs in-person hui with participants and industry. It brings together TUANZ member organisations, cultural advisers, HR specialists and senior business leaders. The programme design focuses on barriers that occur at multiple stages of the employment journey, from awareness of opportunities through to progression into senior roles.
Te Ara Hihiko also emphasises reform of hiring and induction practices. It promotes approaches that Māori and Pasifika participants identify as culturally appropriate and supportive. Once in work, the programme’s stated aims include fair access to development and long-term career growth.
“Te Ara Hihiko’s win is more than just an award, it is an important milestone for equity in the New Zealand tech industry,” said Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ.
Young linked the recognition to a wider conversation about representation in the digital economy. “We believe that opportunity should reflect Aotearoa’s diversity. This recognition will help amplify voices that are too often unheard, and encourage real systems change across the sector.”
Industry and community focus
Te Ara Hihiko forms part of TUANZ’s role as an independent association for technology users in New Zealand. The organisation advocates for users across society and the economy. Its work includes raising awareness of new technologies and their impact on connectivity, skills and access.
Within that context, Te Ara Hihiko has developed a focus on rangatahi, or young people, entering digital roles. The programme promotes a wider understanding of career options in the digital economy. It also seeks clearer and more accessible entry points for those who have historically been underrepresented.
The initiative’s aims extend beyond entry-level roles. It highlights the need for Māori and Pasifika representation in mid-career and senior leadership positions in technology. TUANZ positions this as part of building a tech industry that reflects the country’s population.
Next phase
TUANZ plans to use the recognition as a platform for further work with industry and community stakeholders. The association signals that it will expand engagement with organisations across the digital ecosystem and seek deeper partnerships.
“This award validates the hard work of so many people who have contributed to Te Ara Hihiko, but more importantly, it signals to the entire tech sector that equity and inclusion must be central to how we build our digital future,” said Craig.
“We’re energised to continue this mahi and grateful for the recognition that will help us reach even more rangatahi and organisations committed to meaningful change.”