2021

Authors

Anna Rolleston, Marama McDonald, Philippa Miskelly

Abstract

This kaupapa Māori qualitative study explores the concept of flourishing for whānau Māori (Māori families) and how this is enacted in their everyday lives.

Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with whānau groups comprising at least two generations of the same family, and thematic analysis was based on Māori understandings of the world using NVivo software. Eight main themes emerged, depicted as ‘pou’ or markers that whānau considered intrinsic to flourishing: uaratanga (values); whanaungatanga (kinship relationships); manaakitanga (support); hauora (health and wellbeing); whakapāwera (hardship); kai (food); tikanga (customs), and hangarau (technology).

The findings offer a counter-narrative to negative discourses about Māori deprivation and inequities. The study provides information which could support the strategic development of programmes for Māori, as well as accountability measures, underpinned by the principles of flourishing whānau, at national and local government and community-based levels.

Publication Link

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1177083X.2021.1981955