Cyber Edge: Current State of Cybersecurity in Aotearoa-New Zealand, Opportunities, and Challenges

Abstract

This study investigates the cybersecurity landscape of Aotearoa-New Zealand through a culturally grounded lens, focusing on the integration of Indigenous Māori values into cybersecurity frameworks. In response to escalating cyber threats, the research adopts a mixed-methods and interdisciplinary approach—combining surveys, focus groups, and case studies—to explore how cultural principles such as whanaungatanga (collective responsibility) and manaakitanga (care and respect) influence digital safety practices. The findings demonstrate that culturally informed strategies enhance trust, resilience, and community engagement, particularly in rural and underserved Māori communities. Quantitative analysis revealed that 63% of urban participants correctly identified phishing attempts compared to 38% of rural participants, highlighting a significant urban–rural awareness gap. Additionally, over 72% of Māori respondents indicated that cybersecurity messaging was more effective when delivered through familiar cultural channels, such as marae networks or iwi-led training programmes. Focus groups reinforced this, with participants noting stronger retention and behavioural change when cyber risks were communicated using Māori metaphors, language, or values-based analogies. The study also confirms that culturally grounded interventions—such as incorporating Māori motifs (e.g., koru, poutama) into secure interface design and using iwi structures to disseminate best practices—can align with international standards like NIST CSF and ISO 27001. This compatibility enhances stakeholder buy-in and demonstrates universal applicability in multicultural contexts. Key challenges identified include a cybersecurity talent shortage in remote areas, difficulties integrating Indigenous perspectives into mainstream policy, and persistent barriers from the digital divide. The research advocates for cross-sector collaboration among government, private industry, and Indigenous communities to co-develop inclusive, resilient cybersecurity ecosystems. Based on the UTAUT and New Zealand’s cybersecurity vision “Secure Together—Tō Tātou Korowai Manaaki 2023–2028,” this study provides a model for small nations and multicultural societies to create robust, inclusive cybersecurity frameworks.