ABSTRACT
In this chapter we use the metaphor of the kāpehu whetū (star compass) as a guide that speaks to critical literacy and the cultural, historical, social, and political context of Aotearoa New Zealand. The chapter presents a brief overview of our social and political landscape, emphasising the vital role of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) in providing important compass points for pedagogy and policy. We outline the concerning omission of explicit attention to critical literacy in education policy in Aotearoa that could serve as a guide for critical literacy praxis. Searching New Zealand and international databases, we identified and reviewed 61 articles/reports. Examining 35 of those articles/reports to illustrate the depth and diversity of this work in our space, we used praxis to structure our discussion around action, reflection, and theory. We argue for continual interrogation of our actions, reflections, and theories of critical literacy to ensure our kāpehu whetū can continue to guide us towards new horizons.
