Collaborative Approaches and Emerging Models: International Indigenous-Led Development

Around the world, there are powerful examples of Indigenous-led and collaborative real estate and land development projects that honour culture, history, and community. These initiatives demonstrate how development can move forward while respecting tradition and place. British Columbia and Canada can learn from these international models as we continue to shape more inclusive and respectful practices.

New Zealand’s Māori Housing framework and Hawaii’s Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) initiatives demonstrate the importance of Indigenous-led development:

• In New Zealand, the Papakainga Housing department focuses on building small-scale intentional Indigenous communities by Māori, for Māori, on Māori land.
• Hawaii’s OHA has invested significantly in housing programs, helping Native Hawaiian households obtain rentals, purchase homes, and prevent foreclosures.

New Zealand’s approach to governance offers valuable lessons:

• The country now has two ministries – Crown and Iwi – creating a circular structure of accountability between both government systems.
• This model promotes equality while presenting new challenges in communication and due diligence.

Both regions emphasize the importance of cultural values in housing and land use:

• New Zealand’s Living Standards Framework evaluates cultural, social, and environmental benefits of projects, prioritizing non-tangible benefits such as cultural elements and traditional practices.
• Hawaii focuses on enabling Native Hawaiians to live and raise their ʻohana in their own kulāiwa (homeland).

New Zealand and Hawaii have developed comprehensive strategies for Indigenous housing:

• New Zealand’s MAIHI Ka Ora strategy identifies six priorities, including Māori/Crown partnerships, Māori-led local solutions, and Māori housing supply.
• Hawaii’s approach includes leveraging partnerships to ensure Native Hawaiians can obtain affordable rentals and homeownership.

New Zealand’s approach to knowledge sharing is particularly noteworthy:

• The country holds a biennial National Māori Housing Conference, featuring workshops, field trips, and case studies.

Both regions emphasize financial support and education:

• Hawaii’s OHA focuses on helping Native Hawaiians become creditworthy and better at managing finances.
• New Zealand’s housing continuum aims to move people from homelessness to renting to becoming landlords.

New Zealand ensures alignment between Indigenous-specific strategies and broader housing policies:

• The MAIHI Ka Ora strategy is developed alongside the Government Policy Statement on Housing and Urban Development.

By learning from these approaches, British Columbia can work towards a more collaborative and inclusive real estate industry and land use policy framework that better serves Indigenous peoples.