Download the cards hereAROĀ was developed to create a different kind of conversation.
Developed by Whakauae Research Services, AROĀ is a kaupapa Māori card game designed to get rangatahi talking about politics, identity, wellbeing, and the issues that matter most. What started as a 2023 Winter Studentship project has grown into an exciting initiative that puts rangatahi voices at the centre of kōreroreo about identity, politics and society.
The idea came from research led by four tauira who explored how young Māori engage with politics in Aotearoa. Through media analysis and wānanga, they found that rangatahi wanted political information that was relevant, engaging, and grounded in Māori values. They also found that while rangatahi care deeply about their communities and the future, they are often labelled as politically disengaged when the reality is much more complex.
AROĀ takes a different approach. Rather than focusing on political parties or telling people what to think, the cards encourage discussion, critical thinking, and connection. The card game creates space for whānau, friends, and communities to share perspectives, ask questions, and explore how decisions made by councils and government affect their lives.
At its heart, AROĀ is about empowerment. It recognises that political engagement is connected to wellbeing, self-determination, and the ability of communities to influence decisions that affect them.
As election day draws closer, AROĀ is a reminder that political participation starts with conversation. By creating spaces where rangatahi can learn, question, and lead, we're envisaging a future where Māori voices are informed, confident, and heard.
Access a deck of cards? Click the button below to download the AROĀ deck of cards.
Printing: We suggest you print the pages double sided and then cut each card out as directed on the download.
How to play: Players take turns selecting cards for engaging kōrero.
Want to know more about AROĀ, reach out to our team kiaora@whakauae.co.nz
