This research project was based on the complexities and conceptualising forms of wairuatanga and their implications for teaching and learning in New Zealand mainstream schools. As a relatively new study for research the project explored wairuatanga through the life and work experiences of three Māori teachers from education centres around New Zealand. Wairuatanga permeated through the life and teaching of the participants who all expressed their own sense of wairuatanga in different ways. The cognisance of mātauranga Māori, tikanga Māori and insights into te ao Māori were identified and explored thus taking into account the various ways in which the three participants extended the parameters of existing knowledge of wairuatanga and how they promoted and created a climate within their own teaching context that fostered the natural inclusion of wairuatanga. The findings will assist current teachers and others to develop an understanding and appreciation of the different forms of wairuatanga that may assist them to apply this value to their own classroom practice. It is hoped that the findings will also help to inform teaching practices with respect to teaching and learning not only for Māori children but for all children in New Zealand mainstream schools.