Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland became a focal point for Indigenous knowledge and education in mid-November, as 3,800 educators and leaders from across Aotearoa and the world gathered for the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE) 2025.
Returning to Aotearoa for the first time in 20 years, the event was held at the Aotea Centre from November 16 to 20. The conference, hosted by Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makaurau – AUT and iwi manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, featured meetings, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at advancing Indigenous knowledge globally.
The conference opened on Sunday, November 16, with a traditional pōwhiri (official welcoming), followed by a vibrant ‘Parade of Nations’. Delegates from over 20 cultures paraded down Queen Street in their official kākahu (attire), celebrating Indigenous pride.
WIPCE 2025 co-chair, Meihana Durie, highlighted the importance of the gathering. Duire stated the event was an extraordinary opportunity to showcase Indigenous knowledge and unity, emphasising that amplifying Indigenous voices was key to achieving transformative inter-generational outcomes for Indigenous education worldwide.
The conference, which recorded the highest number of attendees ever for an academic conference in New Zealand, contributed approximately NZ$8.3 million (US$4.7 million) to Auckland’s economy and generated over 16,600 visitor nights.
Alongside the academic conference, Te Ao Pūtahi, a free public festival, offered an immersive experience at Aotea Square. Starting on November 16, the festival featured performances by groups like Ngā Tumanako and artists including Corrella and Jackson Owens. Indigenous stallholders also provided creative workshops, storytelling, kai (food), and goods.
