This case study is directed at Local and Regional government and proposes the capturing of indigenous culture and Tangata Whenua narratives as a key part of best practice in planning and design. The proposal developed by staff from Manukau City Council is specifically directed at informing the development of a Regional Spatial Plan and District Plan for the new Auckland unitary council and has wider relevance for enhancing a range of local government planning processes across Aotearoa / New Zealand.