Te Ao Mārama is built on the principle that every Māori voice matters. We are committed to ensuring that the Panel is accessible, inclusive, and culturally safe for all Māori — including kaumātua, tāngata whaikaha (disabled people), and those with diverse communication or literacy needs. Our goal is to create a research environment that honours the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0).
To make sure everyone can participate fully, Te Ao Mārama provides multiple ways to take part. Our inclusive design principles ensure participants can engage in whichever way works best for them:
• Online survey platform designed to meet WCAG 2.0 AA standards, compatible with screen readers and adjustable text size.
• Freephone (0800 456 777) for participants who prefer or need to complete the survey by phone, with trained interviewers providing real-time support.
• SMS/Text option (021 049 5672) for Deaf or hard-of-hearing participants, allowing enrolment, consent, or follow-up through accessible text messaging.
• Postal paper surveys for participants who prefer a physical form or have limited internet access.
• Supported decision-making process — participants may consult with a trusted person or support worker before consenting.
• Plain language and te reo Māori materials, with bilingual versions of key documents reviewed by professional translators.
These measures build on our earlier study (Ingham et al., *IJERPH*, 2023), where inclusive approaches supported strong participation from Māori with disabilities, older adults, and rural communities. Our experience demonstrates that accessibility and flexibility lead to more meaningful engagement and better-quality data.
All participant information is stored securely on encrypted, New Zealand‑based servers, under Māori data sovereignty governance through Te Ao Mārama Aotearoa Trust (TAMA). Participants maintain full control over their data — they can withdraw within one month of completing a survey, and identifiable details are kept separate from responses. Access to data is strictly controlled in accordance with our approved Data Management Plan and Ethics Approval (Ref: 2025 FULL 21600).
Accessibility is a continuous process. Future developments will include captioned video guides, Easy Read and large‑print materials, and multilingual support options. Accessibility is not an afterthought — it is central to our kaupapa of Mā te mōhio, ka mārama; mā te mārama, ka ora — through knowledge comes understanding; through understanding comes wellbeing.
Accessibility Statement: This site and our digital survey tools meet WCAG 2.0 AA standards and continue to be improved to reflect best practice in digital and cultural accessibility.