Ahead of Waitangi Day, UK schools and education companies tried to engage with Māori culture. But a string of examples, ranging from ignorant cultural appropriation to harmful and inaccurate depictions of history, show colonial attitudes remain entrenched.
After 200 years, Aotearoa is finally incorporating what’s hoped to be a more accurate and nuanced teaching of its history. One that includes the early wars, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the impact of colonisation.
But back in old Blighty, it seems the British just can’t leave behind imperialist attitudes.
When working as a relief teacher, London-based New Zealander Nicole Reeve was upset to hear her students refer to Māori as “savages” and “cavemen”, suggesting colonial attitudes are baked into the system, and reinforced in children from a young age.