(Image Māori panel L-R: Moka Apiti, Elle Archer and Dr Karaitiana Taiuru).

There's no doubt we're in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, but sometimes you have to look hard for an indigenous lens.  It's why I think the fusion of traditional wisdom with artificial intelligence (AI) is timely and more important than ever. At the recent Aotearoa Artificial Intelligence Summit in Auckland, Dr. Karaitiana Taiuru, Elle Archer, and Moka Apiti shared their whakaaro on this dynamic convergence.

Dr. Karaitiana Taiuru, an authority on Māori rights in AI and Data Sovereignty, talked about the significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) in the context of AI. His words reminded us that recognising Māori data as taonga (treasure) imbued with Te Tiriti rights is a moral imperative. The intersection of AI and indigenous rights is a pivotal moment in our history, as affirmed by the Waitangi Tribunal.  This is groundbreaking stuff.

Elle Archer, with her experience as Chair of Te Matarau (The Māori Tech Association) and background in Science and Geospatial Technology, urged us to look beyond the surface. She said AI isn't just a tool; it's a conduit for cultural preservation and inclusivity. AI should be a means to strengthen communities and honour cultural diversity.  I'd love to see some AI prototypes along these lines.

Also I liked how Moka Apiti, Managing Director of Digital Navigators and a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) consultant, used the analogy of parenthood in his kōrero. His description of Māori data governance and sovereignty shows that Māori data isn't a mere commodity; it's a legacy that impacts generations. Māori data sovereignty is about being a responsible steward of collective wisdom.

Embracing AI means building bridges of trust with Māori communities and all indigenous peoples. How?  Here's are the top tips I heard from the panellists:

Start with Relationship Building: Engage in meaningful conversations with Māori and understand the values, needs, and aspirations of the communities you wish to collaborate with. Begin with a cup of tea, a genuine connection, and respect for their perspectives.

Engage Early and Sustainably: Don't wait until you're knee-deep in a project to involve Māori communities. Engage them from the outset and commit to long-term partnerships. Be an active, consistent presence in their world.

Support Reciprocation: Recognise that communities may not operate on a 9-to-5 schedule. Respect their time, acknowledge their contributions, and reciprocate the trust and support they offer.

Seek Māori Expertise, But Don't Overburden: Don't make a single Māori staff member the sole resource for all things Māori. Diversify your sources of knowledge, but also be mindful of the pressure such staff may face.

Learn and Respect the Basics: Invest time in learning about the local iwi, the marae, and the Māori language. Pronouncing names correctly and using basic Māori words can demonstrate your good intentions.

Think Beyond the City: Remember that your impact extends beyond urban centers. Consider the needs and perspectives of rural and remote communities when designing AI solutions.

Prioritise Wisdom Over Intelligence: AI should serve as a tool to amplify collective wisdom. Strive for solutions that empower communities, promote inclusivity, and respect cultural diversity.

Intersecting Māori wisdom with artificial intelligence requires careful innovation and collaboration.  Relationships grounded in trust, respect and reciprocity are also needed to harness the indigenous potential of AI.