Te Tiriti O Waitangi

TASMAN BAY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL STATEMENT ON TE TIRITI O WAITANGI

Tasman Bay Christian School remains committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi within our school community and educational practice.

For us, this commitment is not driven by legislation, but by our Christian faith and the values that shape who we are. As a school in Aotearoa New Zealand, we recognise the unique bicultural foundations of our nation and the importance of nurturing relationships that reflect mutual respect, partnership, and integrity.

Honouring Te Tiriti reflects our desire to build strong, authentic relationships with tangata whenua and with the diverse whānau we serve across the Te Tauihu o te Waka-a-Māui / Nelson Tasman region. We seek to foster learning environments where every tamaiti sees their identity, language, and culture acknowledged and valued, and where all learners grow in understanding, empathy, and Christlike character.

We recognise that the principles often associated with Te Tiriti - partnership, participation, and protection - align closely with our school values and our biblical foundation:

• Mā te Manaakitanga (Care for Others – Philippians 2:3–4)
  Caring deeply for people and relationships, ensuring that every child and whānau feels welcomed and respected.

• Mā te Whakaaro Nui (Be Thoughtful – Philippians 4:7–8)
  Acting with wisdom and discernment as we learn from and with one another across cultures.

• Mā te Mahi Tahi (Work Together – Colossians 3:12–14)
  Working collaboratively with a shared purpose to seek the best outcomes for tamariki.

• Kia Māia (Be Brave – Philippians 4:13)
  Demonstrating courage and perseverance as we grow in understanding and faithfulness.

As a Christian school, we are guided first and foremost by Scripture. Our commitment to honouring Te Tiriti flows from the Gospel call to reconciliation, justice, humility, and love. We believe that educational environments shaped by these values create stronger communities and benefit all learners - Māori and non-Māori alike.

Tasman Bay Christian School will continue to reflect these commitments in our practices, policies, and partnerships as we seek to serve our community faithfully and with integrity.