A Kaupapa Māori study of public health competencies led to development of a competency document suitable for use by universities and workplaces. Increasing language expectations, the importance of strength-based approaches and self-determination, and the need for individual responsibility to address structural racism were key themes identified in the competencies. A fundamental cross-cutting competency was reflective practice. Planetary health and political ideologies were suggested for inclusion by participants as additional socio-political determinants of health with equity impacts. The need for cultural safety, and ensuring that all public health practitioners are ‘seen’, were key concerns related to application of the competency document.
