Psychology organisations apologise for harm caused to Māori

October 2, 2026 - 12:39

At an event in Wellington today, professional psychology organisations issued a formal apology to Maori for the harm caused by racism within the field of psychology. The apology, delivered during a gathering in the capital, acknowledged the role the discipline has played in perpetuating prejudice and causing lasting damage to Maori communities.

Representatives from the organisations spoke directly to those affected, admitting that psychology has not always served Maori well. They described how racist attitudes and practices have shaped research, clinical treatment, and the training of practitioners over many years. The result, they said, has been mistrust, misdiagnosis, and a failure to deliver care that respects Maori worldviews and needs.

The apology follows years of criticism from Maori scholars, health workers, and community leaders who have long argued that the profession ignored their concerns. Several speakers at the event said the statement must be followed by real change, not just words. They called for better representation of Maori in the workforce, culturally grounded approaches to treatment, and a honest reckoning with the past.

Organisers described the apology as a starting point rather than a conclusion. They committed to reviewing how psychology is taught and practised, and to building stronger relationships with Maori communities. For many in attendance, the moment carried weight, but also expectation. The test, they said, will be what happens next.