Johnson Witehira – Toi Māori mō Āpōpō
Dr. Johnson Witehira, a Māori innovator and expert in design, technology, and game development, will share insights from his journey as an artist and academic. Passionate about arts education, Witehira will explore its transformative power and discuss bridging gaps across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Highlighting the importance of mātauranga toi Māori, he will propose ways to connect and integrate Indigenous knowledge throughout the curriculum. Drawing from his extensive experience in design, art, and education, Witehira will inspire art educators to rethink and reimagine how we teach and learn in Aotearoa and beyond.
Biography
Dr. Johnson Witehira (Tamahaki, Ngāti Hinekura, Ngāpuhi, Ngāi Tūteauru, Ngāti Hāmoa) is a leading Māori innovator working across art, design, technology, and game development. As Director of IDIA and PAKU, and a board member of the NZ Game Developers Association, the National Digital Forum (NDF), and Te Korowai-o-Wainuiārua Trust, Johnson integrates Indigenous knowledge and creative thinking into contemporary design practices. His work spans developing AR experiences featuring atua Māori, revitalizing tribal narratives through community projects in the Ruapehu district, and championing Māori stories and values in digital and design spaces. Recently appointed Head of Te Rewa o Puanga School of Music and Screen Arts at Massey University, Johnson brings a wealth of expertise as a designer, academic, and artist, ensuring Māori innovation continues to thrive in education and beyond.