This one-year research project, a collaboration with Te Aratiatia ki te Hauora and funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC), explores the philosophical challenges and tensions between Western medical practices and Te Ao Māori. It aims to explore the application of tikanga Māori in healthcare settings, contributing to the development of policies, protocols, and practical guidance for clinicians, managers, and Māori leaders. 

 

The study focuses on understanding how tikanga Māori is currently applied and integrated into healthcare by addressing key questions: 

  • What is tikanga and its relationship to health? 
  • What aspects of tikanga are being applied in healthcare settings? 
  • How are these practices being implemented? 
  • Is tikanga effectively integrated into healthcare systems? 

 

Guided by prominent Māori scholars, Tā Hirini Moko-Mead, and Tā Pou Temara, the research methodology combines: 

  • Analysis of tikanga guidelines from all national District Health Boards (DHBs). 
  • A literature review on the relationship between tikanga and healthcare. 
  • Interviews with Māori health professionals to capture their experiences and perspectives. 

 

The principal researcher, Te Hirea Doherty, a current medical student at Otago University, brings unique insights from her clinical placements, bridging academic research with hands-on experience in hospital settings. 

By aligning healthcare practices with tikanga Māori, the project seeks to foster a culturally responsive and inclusive healthcare system, ultimately improving health outcomes for Māori communities. 

 

CONTRIBUTORS
  • Te Hirea Doherty – Principal Researcher 
  • Tā Hirini Moko Mead – Cultural Advisor  
  • Tā Pou Temara – Cultural Advisor 
  • Professor Te Kani Kingi – Te Aratiatia ki te Hauora 
  • Professor Sue Crengle - Māori Health Researcher (Otago University) 
  • Professor Peter Crampton – Professor of Public Health in Kōhatu (Otago University)

 

COLLABORATORS

Otago University

Te Hirea Doherty

Te Hirea Doherty, the principal researcher, leads this project, drawing on her academic and clinical expertise.

Sir Hirini Moko Mead

Tā Hirini Moko Mead, Awanuiārangi founding member, serves as a senior cultural advisor and active participant in research guided by tikanga practices.

Sir Pou Temara

Tā Pou Temara provides invaluable cultural guidance, ensuring the research is grounded in tikanga Māori.

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Whakapā mai/Contact us

For any enquiries, please contact Professor Te Kani Kingi.

Te Kani Kingi
Executive Director - Research and Innovation