Henry, E.
Culture Housing Need
International Social Innovation Research Conference, Swinburne University, Melbourne, December 12-15, 2017,
2017
Read Publication
This paper, presented at the International Social Innovation Research Conference in 2017, explores the integration and elevation of Māori knowledge within New Zealand's national research agendas, particularly through the Building Better Homes, Towns, and Cities Challenge.
Funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Enterprise, this initiative stands out for its strategic, cross-disciplinary approach aimed at addressing significant societal challenges through collaboration among diverse research entities. A pivotal aspect of the challenge is its commitment to Vision Mātauranga, a policy designed to harness the innovation potential of Māori knowledge and people for substantial and lasting benefits across the country. Henry’s paper highlights the methodologies and strategies developed to ensure meaningful Māori involvement and leadership in research, thereby promoting outcomes that resonate with Māori communities’ aspirations for sustainable and healthy housing. It underscores the importance of co-created research, acknowledging and respecting Māori as Mana Whenua, and the implementation of Māori-centric research policies as foundational to achieving equitable and culturally sensitive advancements in housing and community building. Through the lens of the Building Better Homes, Towns, and Cities Challenge, Henry articulates a model of research that is both empowering for Māori and mutually beneficial to all stakeholders involved. This model is characterised by participatory and collaborative methods, adherence to Kaupapa Māori research principles, and a commitment to delivering positive, tangible outcomes for Māori communities. The paper serves as a testament to the potential of integrating indigenous knowledge and perspectives in addressing broader national challenges, offering insights into the processes, challenges, and successes of operationalising such an approach within a major research initiative.