ABSTRACT
While sexual and reproductive well-being is largely understood within the context of families and communities, wider social, political and cultural forces play a powerful role in shaping conversations surrounding sexuality. This chapter explores the development and inclusion of Pacific content in the New Zealand's Relationships and Sexuality Education Guidelines 2020, guidelines that assist teachers, school principals and Boards of Trustees in planning responsive programmes to meet the needs of Aotearoa-New Zealand (Aotearoa-NZ) children and young people. Such programmes are essential as modern-day Aotearoa-NZ society is very different to that of previous generations. However, many sexual health issues and taboos remain the same. This chapter examines the contribution of Indigenous and Pacific theories in shaping Aotearoa-NZ's sexuality education guidelines. Although many Pacific communities are commended for retaining traditional values and adhering to cultural and religious teachings, these notions are examined in light of case studies from Pacific educators who deliver sexuality programmes in school settings. Their insights shed light on the importance of engagement and relationships with Pacific students and their families.
