Honouring Professor Angus Macfarlane (CNZM, FRSNZ)

Professor Angus Hikairo Macfarlane (Ngāti Whakaue, Te Arawa; 1950s–2024) was a New Zealand education academic and psychologist renowned for pioneering culturally responsive approaches in teaching and research. Based at the University of Canterbury, he shaped national and international understanding of bicultural education and Mātauranga Māori-informed psychology.

As we reflect on the development of inclusive and culturally grounded education in Aotearoa New Zealand, Professor Angus Macfarlane stands as a deeply influential figure. His work reshaped how educators understand behaviour, culture, identity, and belonging - particularly for Māori learners and those whose needs are not well served by traditional systems.

A leader in culturally responsive education

Professor Macfarlane is widely recognised for advancing culturally responsive and relational pedagogy in New Zealand and beyond. His work emphasises that education is not culturally neutral - it is relational, identity-driven, and deeply influenced by values, language, and worldview.

Through frameworks such as Educultural Wheel and He Awa Whiria (Braided Rivers), he helped schools and educators move beyond deficit thinking toward approaches that honour students’ cultural identities as strengths rather than barriers.

Transforming behaviour and inclusion

One of his most significant contributions was reframing behaviour. Rather than viewing behaviour as something to be managed or controlled, he encouraged educators to understand it as communication-shaped by context, culture, and relationships.

His work has informed major initiatives across Aotearoa, particularly in:

• Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) 

• Restorative practices in schools 

• Inclusive education approaches for diverse learners 

These contributions have had a lasting impact on how schools respond to students who are often marginalised, including those who are twice-exceptional (2e), neurodivergent, or from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Bridging research and practice

A defining strength of Professor Macfarlane’s work is its accessibility. He consistently bridged academic research and real-world practice, ensuring that his ideas are not only theoretically robust but also usable in classrooms.

His writing and professional learning work support:

• Teachers navigating complexity in diverse classrooms 

• Schools seeking to build culturally safe environments 

• Systems aiming for equity and genuine inclusion 

Championing identity, mana, and belonging

At the heart of his work is a commitment to mana-enhancing education. He advocated for environments where learners feel:

• Seen and valued 

• Culturally affirmed 

• Connected to their identity and community 

This focus aligns strongly with current understandings of wellbeing, engagement, and success - particularly for gifted learners whose identities and intensities may sit outside the norm.

Recognition and honours

Professor Macfarlane’s contributions have been formally recognised through:

• CNZM (Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit) for services to education 

• FRSNZ (Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand), acknowledging his outstanding scholarly impact 

These honours reflect not only academic excellence, but also his profound influence on educational practice and policy across the country.

Lasting legacy

Professor Angus Macfarlane’s work has challenged educators to think differently - not just about teaching, but about relationships, identity, and what it truly means to include every learner.

His legacy is evident in classrooms where:

• Culture is visible and valued 

• Relationships are central to learning 

• Diversity is seen as strength 

Every learner’s mana is protected and uplifted 

In looking back to move forward, his contributions offer both a foundation and a direction - one grounded in respect, connection, and the belief that education must work with learners, not simply on them.