SPATIAL JUSTICE AOTEAROA

An independent research and design organisation dedicated to advancing spatial justice across Aotearoa New Zealand.

WHAT WE DO

We bring together research, design, engagement and advocacy to help create more just and equitable places. Our work spans housing, urban development, transport, policy, and community engagement, connecting evidence with practical action to support better outcomes across Aotearoa.

OUR SERVICES

  • RESEARCH

    We undertake rigorous, kaupapa Māori-informed research that connects spatial practice, social equity, and Indigenous knowledge to inform better policy, design, and decision-making.

    SJA RESEARCH

  • DESIGN

    We provide architectural and urban design services that connect buildings, streets, neighbourhoods, and communities through spatial justice, kaupapa Māori-informed practice, and place-based design.oes here

    SJA DESIGN

  • ENGAGEMENT

    We design and facilitate meaningful engagement, co-design, and co-creation processes that centre Māori, community voice, and intergenerational responsibility.

    SJA ENGAGEMENT

  • ADVOCACY

    We advocate for more just, equitable, and sustainable cities by contributing evidence, expertise, and community-centred perspectives to policy, planning, and public debate.

    SJA ADVOCACY
RESEARCH
DESIGN
ADVOCACY
ENGAGEMENT

ABOUT US

Spatial Justice Aotearoa is an independent research, design, planning, and advocacy practice working toward more just, equitable, and sustainable cities and communities.

We connect research, policy, and practice to understand how places, systems, and decisions shape people’s lives. Working alongside iwi, hapū, communities, government, and industry, we produce evidence, develop practical responses, and advocate for built environments that serve everyone.

Our work is grounded in te ao Māori, guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and focused on creating lasting change for current and future generations.

OUR PEOPLE
ABOUT US

SPATIAL JUSTICE DEFINED

Spatial Justice refers to how space, resources, access and power are distributed.

Indigenous Spatial Justice asks whether Indigenous peoples’ rights, relationships and authority are recognised in the shaping of place.

Māori Spatial Justice recognises that in Aotearoa, just space must uphold te ao Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Māori rangatiratanga, so that whenua and the built environment support Māori presence, wellbeing and futures.