At a cultural crossroads: Lessons on culture and policy from the New Zealand DISABILITY STRATEGY

Purpose. This article reports the findings and lessons from a year-long outcome evaluation of Objective 11 of the New Zealand Disability Strategy (NZDS): promote the participation of disabled Maori. It also looks at the larger implications for the creation of culturally appropriate and effective policy for indigenous peoples with disabilities. Method. Data were drawn from 34 semi-structured interviews conducted with ministry officials, service provider organisations, Maori consumers with disabilities and caregivers to Maori consumers. Results. Common themes included issues surrounding the effectiveness of the NZDS and the conflict between indigenous worldviews framed within a mainstream service paradigm. Themes unique to specific interview groups covered areas such as accountability structure design, perceived levels of cultural competency, collaboration across sectors and information exchange. Conclusion. Despite its shortcomings, the NZDS provides several pertinent lessons regarding the provision of culturally appropriate, effective disability services, including increased coordination and collaboration, workforce development (such as staff training and increased indigenous service provider resources), increased information distribution and increased community engagement. Early implementation of these actions allows indigenous peoples with disabilities to participate in society while fully acknowledging their heritage.