In 2008 a report was conducted by Statistics New Zealand in analysing whether this country was being consistent or not with measurements of sustainable development.[1] Three dimensions were used in measuring sustainable development in New Zealand, they were: Environmental responsibility; Economic efficiency; and Social cohesion (see Fig. 1). In measuring such levels of sustainable development, Statistics New Zealand adopted the Brundtland definition of sustainable development and applied it to the New Zealand context so measurements would be sufficient with this country’s environmental, economic and social circumstances. There are many indicators in the report that suggest New Zealand is not being consistent with sustainable development practices in regards to environmental responsibility. For instances, it is reported that the greenhouse gas emissions in New Zealand have grown since 1990, and that levels of nitrogen monitored in rivers and stream sites have increased since 1989.[2] Along with environmental responsibility however, the report also measured New Zealand’s rate of sustainable development in terms of economic efficiency. The report explains that since 1992 the average income in New Zealand has steadily increased.[3] With evidence suggesting that economic efficiency is increasing and environmental responsibility decreasing, one might ask what central and local governments see as more important? Ideally we would like to think both were equally important to local and central governments, but often economic benefits will override environmental responsibility.
While scientific evidence suggests that natural resources may decrease while the world population increases because of climate change, experts on climate change are asking what can be done.[4] Many are looking towards indigenous methods of sustainability as a guide to help international communities become more sustainable in their ways of living.[5] Louis Bruyere explained to the WCED that “Indigenous peoples are… the environmental security system. We are the gate-keepers of success or failure to husband our resources.” Bruyere further stated that “We [indigenous peoples] are still the first to know about changes in the environment, but we are now the last to be asked or consulted.”[6] An example of how New Zealand can become more sustainable by using Maori methods of sustainable development will be explained below. 
Figure 1.
[1] Statistics New Zealand (2009). Measuring New Zealand’s Progress Using a Sustainable Development Approach: 2008. Wellington: Statistics New Zealand.
[2] Ibid, 6.
[3] Ibid, 3. Income defined as: real gross national disposable income (RGNDI) per person.
[4] WCED, Our Common Future, 1987.
[5] Ibid.
[6] Ibid. Louis Bruyere gave evidence to the WCED in 1986 before the final report was written. Though the evidence given by Bruyere is over twenty years old, the implications surrounding indigenous advice on environmental matters being accepted by government agencies are still evident today.