Research Overview

Māori have expressed a desire to be involved in freshwater management in a way that reflects their values. This remains a challenge both for Māori communities and government agencies. Māori groups wanting to work with government on freshwater management often do not have the capacity to access the wide range of processes, structures and tools available to them.

This research project adopted an approach which is grounded in Māori cultural values and beliefs to answer three questions: what are the dreams, aspirations and goals that whānau in the Porirua community have for their own development; what are the major areas of concern for these whānau which may in fact prevent them from achieving their dreams; and finally how do government agencies and insti

This project explored how Māori migrants, while striving for greater economic development, have nonetheless been able to maintain a distinctive Māori identity. A particular focus of the research was how these overseas Māori groups see the relationship between their cultural identity as Māori and their pursuit and achievement of economic success.

The purpose of this research is to investigate what influences business practices have on Māori organisations and their communities. Current business ideology does not acknowledge or recognise tikanga Māori, nor does it differentiate between Māori and Pākehā business practices.

People living in isolated communities often live in homes that lack essential amenities such as clean reliable water, energy or power sources, vehicle access, telecommunications and waste management systems. Under these circumstances the health and safety of whānau, in particular the most vulnerable (kaumātua and pēpi) can be compromised and placed at risk.

This research project contributed to a growing body of critical analysis and examination of Māori dance and performance as a primary form of cultural expression in which the synthesis of diverse cultural and historical influences is contributing to a redefinition of Māori culture.