This is a reflective account of an inquiry learning process that took place as a small country school corrected its name from Tiritea to Turitea. We discuss the process as an example of how boards in mainstream schools can work collaboratively to uphold te ao Maori (the Maori world) in schools and to recognise obligations under the Te Tiriti o Waitangi. School Boards of Trustees set the strategic direction to ensure that Maori students achieve educational success as Maori. The name correction demonstrated the school's willingness to embrace te ao Maori, and to build a closer relationship with tangata whenua to enrich students' learning and success. The inquiry learning process carried out brought to light existing and new knowledge from all participants, and aligned well with the school goal of providing an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, creatively and reflectively. We use the Tataiako competency framework to discuss various elements of the process: ako, wananga, manaakitanga, tangata whenuatanga and whanaungatanga.