Pae Ahurei

This PhD offers a re-examination of the tikanga of ahikā—traditionally understood as a metaphor for sustained occupation—by exploring the literal fires that burned on hapū lands. Through investigating the diverse uses of fire by Māori ancestors (for warmth, kai, light, and communication), this research reveals a richer, more refined understanding of ahikā and its significance as a tikanga rooted not only in metaphor but lived, material practice.

This project investigated the linguistic features of te reo Māori in formal debates (tautohetohe) broadcast in the 1990s, supporting the development of Papa Reo—an Indigenous-led multilingual language research platform.

This internship supported the Whakarauora Project by researching traditional Whanganui pātaka practices to help revive customary fishing and storage methods.
Working with Te Morehu Whenua, the project contributes to cultural education and the restoration of taonga species management.

This project explored whānau-submitted narratives to understand the potential of whānau research in reclaiming knowledge, supporting healing, and navigating barriers.
The intern analysed submissions and reflected on how whakapapa-based methodologies foster intergenerational connection, resilience, and insight.