Decisions that are made in the labour market by Māori postgraduates can often contribute to building better futures for whānau, hapū, iwi and communities. This thesis set out to explore and investigate the relationships that Māori graduates develop when transitioning from higher education into the labour market. It aimed to appreciate how relationships develop and how this might be harnessed to better support future Māori graduates to successfully gain meaningful employment.

An ethnographic Māori-centred approach was undertaken involving five participants from within the Auckland region over a two-month timeframe comprising semi-structured interviews and supported by notes as part of field research.

Key findings indicated that decisions made in the labour market can shape Māori career pathways and influence Māori career narratives within Aotearoa New Zealand. Career aspirations and networking were determined individually, but for Māori there is an added layer of responsibility for culture. Overcoming perceived labour market constraints, such as discrimination and privilege persists as an ongoing challenge.