Sector representatives reported that the sector faced challenges in supporting Māori and Pacific Peoples adequately, resulting in a lack of diversity and equity within the sector. Efforts were made to increase representation from diverse backgrounds and foster inclusivity, including in the building surveying field where active measures were taken to attract more Māori, Pacific Peoples, and women professionals.

In the engineering profession, there was recognition of the need to address historical barriers to diversity and inclusion, with a commitment to rectifying past negative impacts on Māori communities. Crucial emphasis was placed on partnerships with Māori and Iwi, incorporating Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and establishing meaningful connections with indigenous communities.

However, smaller organisations encountered challenges in promoting diversity due to limited resources and support compared to larger corporations. The engineering profession acknowledged the importance of protection, cultural safety, and providing support for Māori and Pacific Peoples to participate in decision-making processes.

Meanwhile, the planning profession acknowledged the significance of partnering with Māori, Iwi, and hapū to incorporate Te Ao Māori worldview into planning practices. This approach considers the social, cultural, environmental, and economic context of the country.

As part of the priority to increase representation of Māori and Pacific Peoples in the workforce, there was a recognition of the necessity to establish educational pathways and professional development opportunities, encouraging greater diversity.

Ultimately, embracing diversity and creating inclusive work environments were deemed essential for fostering a broader range of perspectives and ideas within the sector. This approach promotes a more dynamic and innovative professional landscape.

"Compared to the past, we have made progress in embracing diversity and engaging in partnership initiatives. However, there's still a long way to go to increase representation in the services sector and overcome barriers hindering diversity in the industry."

"We have identified a gender pay gap within the profession, although we've observed an improvement in the gender balance over time."

"Increasing awareness of planning as a profession among students from diverse communities is crucial to encouraging them to consider services trades as a viable career path."

"Our institute is on a journey to embrace all cultural and heritage contexts, including Te Ao Māori world view, and social, environmental, and economic aspects within the development of an Aotearoa planning framework."

"We are working to give effect to the principles of the Treaty in a meaningful way through our planning profession."

"The lack of exposure to planning as a career option and limited informal pathways for engagement can be barriers for Māori and Pacific Islanders looking to enter the profession."

"Providing more support and resources for the development of skills and capabilities within Māori and Pacific communities will enable them to meaningfully engage in planning processes."