About this research
Project Summary
This groundbreaking research project highlights the vital role of whānau in creating resilient, flourishing Indigenous futures. This work explored how Māori families can achieve sustainable livelihoods while fostering a wellbeing-focused economy rooted in te ao Māori (the Māori worldview). Focusing on the present circumstances and future possibilities, the research underscores the importance of grassroots, whānau-centred approaches. By supporting whānau to lead initiatives, develop networks, and embrace traditional operating principles like kaupapa and tikanga, the study offers a blueprint for Indigenous-led economic transformation.
Key insights from the project include the need to:
- Strengthen whānau connections: Supporting whānau to build self-sufficiency, nurture intergenerational relationships, and enhance resilience.
- Develop shared visions: Creating collective and participatory roadmaps for Māori economies of wellbeing that reflect traditional values while being pragmatic and inclusive.
- Promote leadership and innovation: Empowering whānau through education, enterprise, and adaptive strategies that encourage experimentation and scalability.
- Mana Touchstones: Integrate the mana touchstones framework into existing economic policy models to prioritise wellbeing-centric economies.
- Address specific needs: Implementing targeted programs for wāhine (Māori women) and rangatahi (youth) to address financial insecurity, job prospects, and cultural fluency.
The project also examined alternative economic frameworks, such as wellbeing economies and community wealth building, identifying synergies with Māori values. These insights form the foundation for creating locally driven, interconnected networks of Māori economies, led by whānau and supported by organisations that share their vision.
The conclusion of this work emphasises hope and opportunity. Whānau-centred approaches hold the key to vibrant, sustainable economies that align with Māori cultural principles. While the path requires perseverance and collaboration, the strength and resilience of whānau will drive the transformation towards a better future. He tina ki runga, he tāmore ki raro – Contentment above, firmly rooted below – captures the essence of this research, affirming the power of cultural grounding and strong family foundations as the pathway to lasting wellbeing. This research represents an essential step forward in championing Māori-led initiatives for economic, cultural, and social prosperity.
The flippable book and dictionary are available to read online or download on www.maorieconomy.co.nz
Lead Researcher
Professor Chellie Spiller (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa) University of Waikato
Research Team
Professor Jarrod Haar (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngaati Mahuta) AUT University
Dr John Reid (Ngāti Pikiao, Tainui) University of Canterbury
Dr Jason Mika (Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Kahungunu) University of Waikato
Dr Matthew Rout, University of Canterbury
He oranga whānau: mahi ngātahi: Whānau livelihoods within the context of work and Māori economies of wellbeing. These groundbreaking works celebrate Māori futures rooted in kaupapa Māori values while fostering pathways for responsible relationships, meaningful lives, and flourishing Indigenous wellbeing economies. By emphasising the central role of whānau, these publications provide actionable insights and inspiration for transformative change in economic and cultural systems.
Kairangahau · Researchers
Professor Chellie Spiller
University of Waikato
Dr Chellie Spiller, of Matawhaiti Iwitea, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, is Professor of Management and Leadership, and…
Professor Chellie Spiller
Professor Jarrod Haar
Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Mahuta
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Professor Jarrod Haar (PhD) is a Professor of Human Resource Management in the Department of Management and has tribal…
Professor Jarrod Haar
Dr John Reid
University of Canterbury
John is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Canterbury’s Ngai Tahu Research Centre. He is a specialist in…
Dr John Reid
Associate Professor Jason Paul Mika
Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Kahungunu
University of Waikato
Jason is Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Kahungunu. He is an associate professor at Te Raupapa Waikato Management…
Associate Professor Jason Paul Mika
Dr Matthew Rout
University of Canterbury
Matt works on indigenous socio-economic development and environmental sustainability initiatives and projects with a…
Dr Matthew Rout
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