Te Haerenga Pāhekoheko

Te Haerenga Pāhekoheko – Kaupapa Māori framework and model for integration and transdisciplinary research

Summary: This framework has been contextualized within the paradigm of Te Haerenga Pāhekoheko (the collaborative journey). The waka hourua (double-hulled waka) in this respect symbolises the indigenous and non-indigenous elements of the relationship/partnership, working together towards a common goal (te whāinga), which in this case is achieving integration and transdisciplinarity – symbolised as the motu (island). Ngā ara poutama (the stages/steps) represent the steps being taken by both knowledge systems to acknowledge the appropriate (tika) way of making progress to ensure integration at all levels. The ara poutama are also an effective tool for researchers to use as a template for assessing transdisciplinarity and integration (see Te Reo o Te Repo; Ngā Whāinga Kaitiaki o Waiapu). Ngā rāwhara (the sails) represent the values (ngā whanonga pono) that are reinforced in-between the waka hourua, to navigate us to the destination. Ngā whetū (the stars) offer us reflection along the way, and so that we look back and reflect once at te mutunga (the end) to evaluate our success at integration.

See the Te Haerenga Pāhekoheko guide for more details. (PDF)

Ngā Ara Poutama / Stages of the Process

1. Mana Whakahaere / Develop the Process

Develop a framework under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and form tikanga based trust and respect for collaboration and integration.

2. Whakamāramatia ngā Tikanga / Establish the Protocols

Establish cultural protocols and norms for integration, how knowledge is shared and IP are considered here.

3. Whakamāramatia ngā Huānga / Establish the Purpose

Decide on the purpose of collaboration, topic, goals, objectives, and timeframe for integration.

4. Whakamāramatia ngā Mahi / Establish the Work

Implement actions of working together.

5. Whakaatu / Demonstrate Integration

Demonstrate Indigenous knowledge being used alongside the science to tackle complex challenges or problems.

6. Whaiwhakaaro / Evaluate the Process

Evaluation and reflection of the process.

Ngā Whanonga Pono / Values

Āta — The Principle of Growing Respectful Relationships

Āta acts as a guide to understanding the relationships and well-being when engaging with Māori. It focuses on our relationships, negotiating boundaries, and working to create and hold a safe space with corresponding behaviours.

Āwhinatanga — The Principle of Care and Support

Āwhina means care, support, help, stewardship, and assistance. It embraces the team and respects the expertise, competencies, knowledge, and perspectives individuals provide.

Kaupapa – The Principle of Collective Philosophy

Kaupapa refers to the collective vision, aspiration, and purpose of research. Integration must be based on kaupapa and have a clear understanding of what is to be achieved. It also refers to the aspirations of iwi/hapū/whānau and community.

Mātauranga Māori - The Principle of Māori Knowledge

Mātauranga Māori within an integrative model is recognised as a dominant knowledge system and perspective. Includes Te Reo and tikanga Māori.

Pāhekoheko - The Principle of Integration

Pāhekoheko refers to integration, cooperation, and interaction from a Māori perspective that drives interconnections and interdependencies across knowledge forms and disciplines.

Te Ao Māori - The Principle of a Māori worldview

Te Ao Māori is a (w)holistic perspective based on knowledge(s) consistent with kaupapa Māori.

Te Titiri o Waitangi – The Principle of the Treaty of Waitangi

The principle of the Treaty of Waitangi refers to working under a Treaty model of participation and partnership. This ensures trust and respect in the relationship towards integration.

Tikanga – Customary protocols

Tikanga refers to following correct cultural or customary protocols, process, and rules in the relationship. Tikanga ensures correct process and steps are followed from the onset to the end of a project.

Report: Taura Y, Harmsworth G, Wareka M 2021. Towards a Māori transdisciplinary framework and model for integration. Contract Report: LC3930. Hamilton, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research.

Portfolio: Society, Culture & Policy

Project: SSIF Māori Flagship – Towards a Māori integration framework for Aotearoa New Zealand

Project Leaders: Yvonne Taura, Kairangahau Māori and Garth Harmsworth, Toi Rangahau Māori