Human Rights Commission Urges Te Tiriti-Based Framework for Artificial Intelligence

On Friday, 7 August 2026, the Human Rights Commission released a landmark report titled 'AI and Digital Technologies: A Human Rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi Approach.' As reported by RNZ, 1News, and Waatea News, the document argues that Māori data sovereignty and human rights must be placed at the heart of artificial intelligence development in Aotearoa. The commission and technology advocates argue that while AI offers significant potential for social good, it must be governed by a framework that honours the nation's constitutional foundations to ensure technology serves all New Zealanders. Dayle Takitimu, the Rongomau Taketake Indigenous Rights governance partner, emphasised that Te Tiriti provides essential guidance for navigating this new technological landscape. Takitimu stated that Māori have the inherent right to determine how data regarding their communities, identities, and interests is used and protected. Central to this vision is the principle of Māori data sovereignty, asserting authority over information relating to people, language, and mātauranga. Takitimu highlighted that protecting cultural knowledge and intellectual property is a modern expression of tino rangatiratanga, ensuring Māori are active partners in shaping digital outcomes to maintain public trust. Senior Human Rights advisor Sophie Bradwell-Pollack told RNZ that human rights and Te Tiriti obligations remain constant regardless of the medium, whether writing on paper or using a computer. She noted that for Māori, data often encompasses collective taonga like language and culture rather than just individual facts. The report warns that without a human rights-centred approach, AI risks reproducing existing societal biases, digital exclusion, or misusing Māori data through a lack of transparency. However, if designed in genuine partnership, AI has the potential to revitalize te reo Māori, support people with disabilities, and improve outcomes in healthcare and environmental management. The commission insists on clear transparency as the government explores increasing AI use to improve public service productivity. The report recommends a digital infrastructure strategy that extends beyond the public sector to benefit the entire country through meaningful engagement. A spokesperson for Paul Goldsmith, the Minister for the Public Service and minister responsible for digitising government, confirmed that the report has been received and the government will table its response in parliament in due course. Takitimu believes that by centering Māori rights, Aotearoa can build a digital future that maintains constitutional foundations.