Doctoral Thesis

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 explores hapū data sovereignty for Ngāti Tiipa, using tikanga to protect and manage data for whānau. It tests a Māori data privacy framework with Ngāti Tiipa’s digital databases, drawing on their mātauranga to guide decisions on data privacy and sovereignty.

‘Hua o te Kawariki’ explores Ngāti Whātua mātauranga to inform future teaching, learning and leadership. Grounded in the prophetic mōteatea He aha te hau, this research draws on the wisdom of Ngāti Whātua mātanga to shape the vision for a potential Ngāti Whātua curriculum and kura ecosystem.

This research explored how mahinga toi—through process, theory, and creative output—supported whānau, hapū, and iwi oranga and mana motuhake. Grounded in Te Whānau a Apanui, it developed a tukunga iho methodology that extended pūrākau into creative practice, recognising toi as both healer and knowledge system.

This project explores the barriers Māori whānau face in accessing disability funding through New Zealand’s Needs Assessment and Coordination system. Combining a literature review with interviews of whānau and Kaupapa Māori providers, the research aims to build strong relationships and develop a Kaupapa Māori equity-based tool. Ultimately, this will support a co-designed framework to improve fair and culturally appropriate funding for whaikaha Māori.

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.