Awardee: Morgana Vicki Watson (Taranaki, Te Atiawa, Te Atihaunui-a-Papaarangi, Ngāpuhi), University of Canterbury
This research explores how Māori Futurism can be realised through interactive media, merging traditional Māori knowledge with futuristic storytelling and technology. The project investigates the transformative potential of Māori media, where Te Reo me ngā Tikanga are integrated into the development process of, as well as within immersive, interactive worlds. It aims to create culturally authentic experiences that empower Māori and Indigenous communities by offering edutaining ways to engage with their/our culture, language, and identity.
This exegesis focuses on how interactive media can contribute to Māori futurism, exploring how these digital and physical game experiences can help preserve and revitalise Te Ao Māori while encouraging cultural connection and aspiration. Objectives include the development of the world’s first Māori table-top, role-playing game, an exegesis analysing the process of this project, and a Kawa for Māori and Indigenous creators to utilise for their own projects.
This research is crucial as it supports the revitalisation of Māori culture in a modern and future-focused context, ensuring that we thrive in digital and physical spaces. It will also contribute to the underrepresentation of indigenous women and girls in games, gaming and technology sectors, creating new opportunities for leadership, representation, and empowerment in these industries.