The Tapatoru Ako Professional Practice Award, part of Ako Aotearoa’s commitment to New Zealand’s tertiary education, enriches teaching practices and embeds cultural values. The award attracts diverse educators aiming to improve teaching methods, professional values, and earn recognition. Awardees witness significant changes in teaching methods emphasizing individual learners’ needs and cultural values. Also, despite challenges, the programme enhances integration of Tikanga Maori and learners’ focus, has a profound impact on professional practices and is instrumental in shaping future educational strategies.