The science policy framework Vision Mātauranga (VM) was launched in 2005 by the former Ministry of Research Science and Technology (MoRST) with the aim of unlocking the science and innovation potential of Māori knowledge, resources and people through “distinctive R&D” (MoRST, 2007, p. 4). Plenty of literature theorises why mātauranga Māori is necessary for innovation, but the how, or practice, of implementing VM in a meaningful way is unresolved and under-researched. In this article, we look to practice theory to identify constituent and interdependent elements that are required to form, change or embed the VM policy practice aim of distinctive R&D activities.

The realisation of the developmental aspirations of Indigenous communities requires a reframing of economy and economic representation. The “diverse economies” framework provides a platform from which to counter the dominant Western narrative surrounding notions of economy, and bring to the fore forms of enterprise and practices all too often “hidden” or viewed as alternative, and therefore deemed inferior. This paper explores the notion of economy and economic activity through the lens of diverse economies to best represent the complex and multidimensional nature of Māori small and medium-sized enterprises—pakihi Māori.