Western education theory and philosophy as the domain of the dominant pedagogy forms the basis of the New Zealand education system. Although the current form of education is reflective of the dominant cultures ideologies and philosophies it does not always serve the interests of all students. The philosophy of Ata offers an indigenous knowledge based pedagogical approach to teaching that has the potential to not only transform the learning experience of all students, but also provide teachers with a theory of best practice that is holistic and relational.