Arihia Stirling QSM is the long-standing Principal of Te Kura Māori o Ngā Tapuwae in Māngere East, a Māori immersion school she has led with distinction for over 26 years. Her keynote address challenges researchers, policymakers, and community leaders to centre authenticity in their work – ensuring that Māori and Pacific voices are not just heard, but upheld. Too often, stories are watered down, generalised, or reshaped to fit a specific narrative. In her kōrero, she explores what it means to maintain integrity in research, reflect real-life experiences, and stay accountable to the communities we serve. Equity starts with truth – and that means keeping it real, always.
A respected figure in education, Arihia has served on numerous leadership and advisory groups at regional, national, and international levels, championing Kaupapa Māori education and ensuring it remains at the forefront of educational discourse. Her unwavering commitment has been recognised across Australasia, most notably through the National Excellence in Teaching Awards, where she was honoured as one of the region’s outstanding educators.
