Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is commonly framed in Western biomedicine as a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in social communication and patterns of restricted or repetitive behaviours. In Aotearoa New Zealand, Maori (the Indigenous peoples) use the term Takiwatanga, a term meaning “my/his/her own time and space” used to describe autism in ways that foreground personhood, relationality, and dignity. This paper synthesises published scholarship, policy sources, and Indigenous health frameworks to outline Maori perspectives on autism, situating these within Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi) obligations, kaupapa Maori (Maori-led) research principles, and the equity challenges created by a health system shaped by colonial histories and ongoing racism. Recent population-level research indicates that autistic Maori are identified at lower rates than non-Maori in administrative datasets, raising concerns about diagnostic access, pathways to support, and the cultural safety of services. This article discuss community and provider-led responses grounded in family centred practice, strengths- based approaches to neurodiversity, and Maori health provider models. Also examined are emerging uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in autism screening and assistive technologies, highlighting both potential benefits (earlier identification and personalised supports) and risks (algorithmic bias, data governance, and cultural harm) for Maori communities. It concludes with recommendations for Indigenous led, culturally safe, and rights-based autism systems that braid Maori and Western knowledge streams while protecting Maori self-determination.