While autistic people in much of the world continue to face prejudice and a lack of understanding, in New Zealand the Māori people have chosen to change the narrative — starting with words.
Too often neurodivergent people, like autistic people, are pushed aside in a corner, rejected and unfortunately mocked and discriminated against. This is not the case among Māori who have actually introduced a specific term into their language to indicate autism, bringing with it a profoundly inclusive and respectful perspective.
In recent years, neurodiversity movements are trying to change this perception in other countries too, but rarely with the same cultural and linguistic depth shown by Māori.
The word “Takiwātanga” translates as “my time and space” and reflects a vision of autism that does not simply recognize its difficulties, but celebrates its differences. The word was coined in 2017 by Māori linguist Keri Opai who wanted to emphasize the unique connection that autistic people have with their environment and with the world, proposing a perception of autism not as a disability, but as a gift or “taonga”.
In Māori culture, the word taonga indicates something precious, sacred, to be protected — not simply “a gift.” This reinforces the idea that neurological differences are an integral part of identity and community.
In New Zealand, although there is not yet a national autism registry, various regional studies have indicated lower prevalence rates than in other nations. For example, a study by the Hutt Valley District Health Board, carried out between 2012 and 2016, highlighted a prevalence of 1 in 1,500 autistic children, a figure significantly lower than estimates from countries such as the United States.
However, many believe these estimates are incomplete, especially in rural and low-income areas, where access to diagnostic services is limited. According to 2020 research, current data may underestimate the prevalence of autism in New Zealand by around 40%.
An invitation to inclusiveness and to welcome cognitive differences
Regardless, the Māori community has played a critical role in redefining the language surrounding neurological and mental health conditions, creating terms that avoid any form of judgment and instead emphasize individual strength and ability.
In the “Te Reo Hāpai” glossary, numerous terms are introduced not only to describe autism, but also other aspects related to mental health and disability, providing a lexicon that emphasizes empowerment and inclusiveness.
The concept of Takiwātanga represents a paradigm shift that goes beyond the recognition of autism as a neurological condition, aiming for an acceptance of neurodiversity. A real invitation to inclusiveness where welcoming cognitive differences can represent a strategic advantage, bringing enrichment in terms of creativity and innovation.
This open-mindedness highlighted by the Māori people should be an inspiration to us all, suggesting that autism should not be seen through the filter of limitations, but as an opportunity to understand and value the different perspectives with which each person relates to the world.
Today “Takiwātanga” is also used in awareness campaigns promoted by Autism New Zealand, and some Māori teachers introduce it into lessons to explain the value of cognitive differences.
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