The Aotearoa Inclusivity Matrix (AIM)® is New Zealand’s national framework for workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Developed specifically for Aotearoa’s unique cultural and workplace dynamics, AIM gives organisations a clear, evidence-based picture of their DEI maturity and a roadmap for growth.
What AIM measures
AIM assesses workplace inclusion across seven critical components:
- Leadership
- Diversity infrastructure
- Diverse recruitment
- Inclusive career development
- Te Tiriti alignment
- Inclusive collaboration
- Social impact
Each component is mapped across five maturity levels, helping organisations pinpoint their position and focus investment where it delivers the most impact.
Benefits for workplaces
Engaging with the Aotearoa Inclusivity Matrix allows organisations to:
- Understand what DEI excellence looks like
- Benchmark the maturity of their DEI journey against other organisations in their sector or workplaces with similar characteristics (size, location etc)
- Identify and analyse gaps in current practices
- Create a pathway to shift the organisation through the matrix maturity levels
- Prioritise investment in their DEI journey
Why organisations use AIM
Engaging with AIM helps you:
- See the big picture – understand what DEI excellence looks like in practical terms.
- Benchmark with confidence – compare your maturity against peers in your sector.
- Close the gaps – identify strengths and weaknesses in your current approach.
- Invest wisely – prioritise where to direct time, resources, and budget for the greatest impact.
- Plan for progress – build a clear, evidence-based roadmap to move through the maturity levels.
Why AIM matters for Aotearoa New Zealand
By adopting AIM, your organisation gains a clear roadmap for progress and contributes to a national benchmark for workplace inclusion. This shared framework creates a common language for DEI maturity, making inclusion measurable, credible, and coordinated across the country.