IAG New Zealand has unveiled toi Māori (a new Māori artwork) as part of its visual identity, embracing Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) and marking an important step in its cultural journey.
The artwork, Ruaitewānanga, was created by artist Randal Leach (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Konohi), and represents five guiding principles which also underpin IAG New Zealand’s Māori strategy, He Rautaki Māori.
IAG New Zealand Māori Engagement Manager, Lavinia Taylor, says the artwork is a powerful expression of the organisation’s meaningful evolution, honouring the kaupapa (cause) of its strategy in a visible way.
“Ruaitewānanga is a visual reflection of the values that foster our culture at IAG. It reflects our collective journey and deepening understanding of Te Ao Māori, and it will help guide us as we continue to build our culture of inclusion, respect and belonging.”
The unveiling of the artwork took place before dawn with a karakia (blessing) led by descendants of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei. This was followed by a pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) and an educational session at IAG’s Fanshawe Street office in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.
“Kaimahi gathered to learn about the significance of the artwork and its connection to He Rautaki Māori. Together, we sang IAG’s very own waiata composed by Matua Tapeta of Te Wehi Haka and shared in a hākari feast, celebrating the kaupapa and its meaning.”
The five guiding principles represented in Ruaitewānanga are all interconnected and layered in the following order:
• Te Pae Tawhiti – intergenerational thinking.
• Whanaungatanga – kinship.
• Manaakitanga – reciprocity.
• Kaitiakitanga – guardianship.
• Rangatiratanga – leadership.
“Our new visual identity is a reflection of IAG’s commitment to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embedding tikanga Māori intent and values into our culture,” says Lavinia.
