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Rangahau · Research Programme

Ngā whenu haumaru hei raranga: Social Wellbeing

About this research

Summary

Since the arrival of visitors to Aotearoa, Māori have always been quick to assess and adapt language, technology and information. Contemporary society brings new languages, technology and information instantly to our fingertips. New pressures and demands can be a consequence of readily accessible knowledge. For all its advances, there are also disadvantages. For rangatahi, those with addictions and Māori whānau connections and wellbeing can be negatively affected.

This programme of research investigates examples of Māori approaches to social wellbeing. Through a series of research activities undertaken by the research team, a case study will emerge reflective of collaborative interactions with key stakeholder organisations. Utilising qualitative methods such as key informant, wānanga, hui, photo elicitation and go along interviews, the research is primed to capitalise on the collaborative relationships to affect national policy and regional service delivery.

Research Question

How can the unique contributions of a Māori worldview that upholds and supports rangatahi and whānau contribute to Māori social wellbeing?

Lead Researcher

Professor Bridgette Masters-Awatere, University of Waikato

Research Team

Dr Pita King, Te Rarawa, Massey University 

Dr Moana Rarere, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Kahungunu, Tūhoe, Whakatōhea, University of Waikato

Dr Rewi Nankivell, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngā Puhi, University of Waikato

Dr Eleanor Britain, Ngati Kahungunu ki Te Wairoa, Ngāti Raikaipaka, Massey University – Wellington

Dr Ririwai Fox, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Ngāti Porou, University of Waikato

Hans Tiakiwai, Tūhoe, Te Wharekura o Ruatoki?

Megan Fitzpatrick, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Hine, Ngāpuhi, Waikato University

Prof Darrin Hodgetts, Kai Tahu, Massey University – Albany

Tiana Watkins, Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Pūkenga, Ngāti Ranginui, Waikato University

Since the arrival of visitors to Aotearoa, Māori have always been quick to assess and adapt language, technology and information. Contemporary society brings new languages, technology and information instantly to our fingertips. New pressures and demands can be a consequence of readily accessible knowledge. For all its advances, there are also disadvantages. For rangatahi, those with addictions and Māori whānau connections and wellbeing can be negatively affected.

This programme of research investigates examples of Māori approaches to social wellbeing. Through a series of research activities undertaken by the research team, a case study will emerge reflective of collaborative interactions with key stakeholder organisations. Utilising qualitative methods such as key informant, wānanga, hui, photo elicitation and go along interviews, the research is primed to capitalise on the collaborative relationships to affect national policy and regional service delivery.

Ētahi atu · Other projects

Research Programme

21-24RP01He oranga whānau: mahi ngātahi: Whānau livelihoods within the context of work and Māori economies of wellbeing
Kaiārahi · Project lead Professor Chellie Spiller
Whare wānanga · Host University of Waikato
Matakitenga · Framework
Wā rangahau · Timeline Commenced 2022 · Completed 2025

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…

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Internship project

21-22INT06Separatism, or sovereignty? Exploring social media and news media narratives of Maaori tino-rangatiratanga in politics and health
Whare wānanga · Host University of Waikato
Matakitenga · Framework
Wā rangahau · Timeline Commenced 2021 · Completed 2022

This internship analysed how race and racism are framed in New Zealand’s social and traditional media around key issues like constitutional reform and Māori health. Guided by a research team, the intern conducted manual content analysis to uncover overt and subtle expressions of racism.

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Doctoral thesis

22PHD10Te Kai Ora a Kāi Tahu: Conceptualising Kāi Tahu kai sovereignty and Māori nutrition data sovereignty
Whare wānanga · Host Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland
Matakitenga · Framework
Wā rangahau · Timeline Commenced 2021 · Completed 2024

This research explored how Kāi Tahu can strengthen control over kai systems, sources, and practices. By weaving together insights on Māori food and nutrition data sovereignty, it offers a foundation for future whānau- and hapori-led kai ora initiatives.

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