Showcasing Māori research in Te Reo
Hosted by Te Ipukarea Research Institute and Te Ranga Tukutuku AUT Māori Research Network, Ngā Hua a Tāne-te-Wānanga brought together Māori researchers from senior academics to emerging researchers and postgraduate students.
Across the day presentations and kōrero focused on Indigenous methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and innovative thinking. Guided by the whakataukī ‘Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, kia ora ai te iwi’, the symposium highlighted a range of research being undertaken by Māori scholars and researchers.
As part of AUT’s Research Week - Te Wiki Rangahau, this year’s Ngā Hua a Tāne-te-Wānanga was delivered entirely in te reo Māori. Live simultaneous translation services were provided by Hemi Kelly and Hana Mereraiha White to ensure non-Māori speakers could participate. The symposium’s MC was journalist and AUT alumnus Te Okiwa McLean.
Presenters
Sir Dr Tīmoti Kāretu KNZM, QSO, CRSNZ
Keynote presentation: He aroha anō te kore i aroha
Tā Tīmoti opened the symposium, sharing his insights on te reo Māori revitalisation and emphasising its enduring importance for cultural identity and community development.
Dr Hana O’Regan ONZM
Keynote presentation: Reflections on a recording with Ngāi Tahu koroua on their messages to the next generation and their switching of dialects
Dr O’Regan reflected on intergenerational knowledge transmission and the fluidity of dialects within Ngāi Tahu, connecting historical insights with contemporary language revitalisation.
Emeritus Professor Poia Rewi
Keynote presentation: He pātai ka uiā: he ui, ka whakahokia!
Emeritus Professor Rewi explored traditional knowledge practices and Māori-led approaches to research inquiry, emphasising reciprocal learning and cultural engagement.
Associate Professor Dean Mahuta
Abstract: He kura huna: Waiū me te hononga ki a Tū
Associate Professor Mahuta discussed research within the Western construct of the Academy often begins with a problem or a question. This approach is at odds with the Māori imperative, 'kimihia, rapua te mea ngaro' - search for that which is hidden.
Abstract: Te Mōteateatanga o te Kupu
Dr Hata explored mōteatea as both a genre and a vehicle of expression, focusing on a waiata tangi composed during the Tarawera eruption and its significance for language learning and emotional expression.
Abstract: He Tamaiti nā Tangaroa, He Ahuahu o Mataora: Documenting Puhoro
Uenuku’s presentation explored pre-colonial cultural ceremonies and pūrākau methodologies to document the traditional Māori thigh tattoo (puhoro), reflecting whakapapa, whenua, moana, and honour in Māori society.
Matangireia Yates-Francis
Abstract: Ngā Kura o Rua
ŌRUA draws its identity and inspiration from the whakapapa of Rua, descended from Tangaroa, and the ancestral knowledge of atua associated with creativity, memory, and wānanga. Rooted in Māori principles, ŌRUA seeks to awaken and reframe contemporary design through a Mori lens, honouring traditional practices while engaging with the challenges of modern architecture.
Abstract: Ko te Huarahi, ko te Reo
Dr Williams shared his Māori language journey through his first original composition, Ka a Nanny B, reflecting the guidance of teachers and whānau in nurturing reo, identity, and cultural revitalisation.
Abstract: Horahia anō rā ko te takapau wharanui e
Peta examined the revival of traditional ceremonial mats as part of contemporary Māori marriage, exploring tikanga-informed expressions of relationships and whakapapa continuity.
Attendee Feedback
“Kei te aroha ahau i te korero Māori me e rongo ana ki te mahi i roto i te reo. I te ngahau ahau i rongo ki te korero i te whakawhanake o te reo Kai Tahu.”
“The conference in Te Reo Māori was the most enriching experience, and incredible to exist an academic institution. That the resources and those behind the event were allocated/supported for us to have such a vital and impactful presence of the reo for the full day was an incredible achievement, ka mau te wehi. The speakers, the headsets, the catering... everything about the event truly embodied AUT values and I am so glad that this exists, and proud that I work for this institution.”
“I atttended the Māori research day on Tuesday. It was inspiring in that it was delivered all in te reo with excellent simultaneous translation. I wish everyone at the university could have such an experience so I strongly hope that events in te reo with translation like this will continue.”
“Māori research had amazing keynote speakers :) Ka pai”
“I loved that Ngā Hua a Tāne-te-wānanga was entirely in Te Reo Māori! I thought the translators and tech were amazing, and loved that our kaikorero were able to korero in the language they felt comfortable with - not the language of academia.”
Watch Te Karere TVNZ feature
Acknowledgements
Professor Mark Orams, Professor Meihana Durie, and Associate Professor Rachael Ka’ai-Mahuta for their leadership and support, to all participants and the organising team Professor Tania Ka’ai, Tania Smith-Henderson, Dr Toiroa Williams, Dr Nogiata Tukimata, Peta Yates-Francis, Nilam Patel, Ben Ng, and Te Haua Taua.
Impressions from the day
