This research grew from the concern about how to stimulate discussion and debate within Māori communities about the role of Māori women, in the past, present and future. This research sought women’s stories, in order to let Māori women speak about how they perceive their relationships to the state, environment and others in their communities. This research also included considering the extent (if at all) legal processes, such as human rights law, and bodies such as the Waitangi Tribunal, can assist or undermine Māori women, who are seeking to remedy discrimination.