Indigenisation of the New Zealand Library and Information Sector: Implications for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

This essay examines the evolving ethnic landscape of New Zealand and its implications for the library and information management sector. Since its early colonisation, New Zealand has transformed demographically, with a notable decline in the proportion of New Zealand Europeans due to population growth among Māori and increasing migration from Pacific nations and Asia. As the ethnic makeup shifts, library institutions, predominantly staffed by New Zealand Europeans, face significant challenges in meeting the diverse information needs of the population. The essay highlights the urgency of re-evaluating library staffing, recruitment, and training to enhance cultural competency and inclusivity. It also discusses how New Zealand's library and information studies curricula have increasingly integrated Māori knowledge and perspectives over the past 30 years, aligning with Treaty of Waitangi obligations. However, the representation of other ethnic communities remains insufficient. The essay advocates for a more inclusive curriculum that not only prioritises mātauranga Māori but also encompasses the diverse needs of all cultural groups, arguing that addressing Indigenous perspectives can serve as a foundation for equitable information access for all New Zealanders.