Across Aotearoa, kōrero around what it really means to feel included at work is ramping up. Many of us want workplaces where we can feel respected and show up as our best selves. At the same time, organisations are genuinely trying to understand how their people are doing beyond the surface.

To meet this moment, Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion is proud to introduce the Workplace Inclusion Barometer, Aotearoa’s first independent, recurring measure of trust, belonging and inclusion in the workplace.

“This barometer is not about policies or tick boxes. It is about people. It listens to the lived experiences of workers across the motu, creating a clearer and more honest picture of what inclusion feels like in Aotearoa today,” says Professional Services Manager Déjealous Palota-Kopa.

Why now?

Workplaces have been changing at a rapid pace. Social movements, cultural conversations, economic shifts and evolving expectations around wellbeing have all influenced how people experience work. For many, especially those from communities whose voices are not always heard, inclusion cannot be assumed. It has to be understood.

At the same time, organisations have been asking for something deeper than traditional diversity data. They want meaningful insights into belonging, psychological safety and everyday experiences.

“The Workplace Inclusion Barometer responds to this need with a refreshed approach that centres people and acknowledges the intersectionality of identity in Aotearoa.”

A new chapter for Te Uru Tāngata

The barometer aligns with Te Uru Tāngata’s evolution from focusing on diversity as representation to focusing on inclusion as lived experience. Representation matters, but inclusion tells us whether people feel welcomed, supported and able to thrive.

“This project reflects that shift. It is designed to offer credible, community-informed insight that supports better culture-building, better policy and better outcomes for people,” Déjealous says.

What makes the Workplace Inclusion Barometer unique?

The Workplace Inclusion Barometer stands apart because it:

• Focuses on real experiences and feelings of inclusion
• Amplifies voices from a wide range of communities
• Builds a consistent picture of how inclusion is changing over time
• Connects workplace experiences to wider social and cultural dynamics
• Provides trusted insights that support both organisational improvement and national advocacy

“It is, at its core, about listening. And then using what we learn to shape better workplaces.”

A call to our community

“The Workplace Inclusion Barometer will only be as strong as the voices behind it. That is why we are inviting individuals across Aotearoa to share their stories and help build a truly representative picture of inclusion. Every voice matters, whether you feel deeply connected in your workplace or are navigating challenges that need visibility.”

TAKE THE WORKPLACE INCLUSION BAROMETER SURVEY

“We also invite workplaces to support the barometer by encouraging their people to participate and by using the insights to strengthen their inclusion journey.”

Feel free to share the link to the survey with your colleagues or contact consultancy@workplaceinclusion.org.nz to receive posters with a QR code that you can display around your workplace.

Looking ahead

This initiative represents more than data collection. It represents a collective commitment to understanding one another better, Déjealous says.

“The Workplace Inclusion Barometer is a step toward a more inclusive Aotearoa, where all of us have the opportunity to feel valued in the places we work.

“Your voice is an essential part of this story.”