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    Augustus Hamilton : appropriation, ownership and authority : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Museum Studies at Massey University
    (Massey University, 1998) Pishief, Elizabeth
    Augustus Hamilton (1853 - 1913) was a scientist and ethnologist whose appointment to the position of Director of the Colonial Museum in 1903 was politically motivated. This thesis examines the interrelationship between the appropriation of taonga Maori, the concept of ownership and the assumption of the authority to manage Maori heritage within the colonial context. The life of Augustus Hamilton provides a case study to explore the themes of colonial appropriation and national identity. The study also provides essential background for a number of important contemporary issues. The purpose of the thesis is to connect four episodes in Hamilton's life to demonstrate a consistent development in his interest in the preservation of Maori heritage within the colonial context. The philosophical and academic movements in the nineteenth century which contributed to Hamilton's intellectual and professional development are discussed before exploring the early years of his career in Hawke's Bay when he established his reputation as a collector, gained his museum skills and built up a network of people interested in science and ethnology. Then the role he played in pressing for legislation to control the export of Maori art and its corollary the establishment of a national Maori museum is examined before demonstrating how his expertise and contacts enabled him assist the Government in the establishment of a politically motivated collection of Maori ethnology and the impact his philosophy has had on New Zealanders' perception of Maori culture until the present time. Finally I wish to thank my four children Justin, Kate, Alexander and Evelyn and my parents for their support and understanding over the years while I have endeavoured to complete this thesis.
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    Kanohi ki te kanohi : a journey towards repatriation : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Māori Studies at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2011) Tipene-Hook, Brenda
    This thesis explores and examines Ngāti Hine perspectives with respect to taonga. Whilst past research has tended to focus on how museums have responded to international and domestic pressure in terms of their recognition of indigenous rights and cultural awareness, in contrast, the Ngāti Hine experience and the Ngāti Hine response is emphasised. With particular regard to the Ngāti Hine taonga tapu currently housed at the Auckland Museum, this thesis examines hapū-museum relationships from the perspective of Ngāti Hine and investigates and analyses the degree and quality of hapu-museum interaction. An account of the journey, thus far, that Ngāti Hine have made in terms of repatriating their taonga tapu back to within their tribal boundaries and jurisdiction is given. The Ngāti Hine experience is central to the research findings and shows how this journey continues to shape the current perspectives of Ngāti Hine in terms of their response to, and their relationship with, museums. The research consulted with participants drawn from within Ngāti Hine. Research methodology included one-to-one interviews, a focus group discussion, and a review of relevant literature. Appropriate and relevant methodologies for Māori-centred research, and in particular, Action Research methodology, were employed. Due to the nature of the research and the researcher’s personal cultural views and convictions, the Māori research participants were limited to those of Ngāti Hine descent who are known personally to the author. In addition, all interviews, consents, and dissemination of information complied with legislation regarding privacy and included any additional restrictions, or freedoms, stipulated by the participants. The expected timeframe was from November 2004 to January 2006 but was extended to August 2010. Whilst the research data has not been affected, some updates to the research have been made. Envisaged outcomes include the opportunity for Ngāti Hine to share their perspective in an area where they are infrequently consulted and to share their journey through the repatriation process. It is also hoped that this thesis will provide a better understanding of the hapū-museum dynamic and therefore assist in improving iwi/hapū-museum relationships.
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    Evaluating the tangible, acknowledging the intangible : the application of auditing, kaitiakitanga and collection management during the Tairāwhiti museum taonga Māori audit : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Museum Studies at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2010) Colmer, Paki-Moana
    The objective of this dissertation is to reveal how the application of auditing and holistic collection management practices can bring about tangible and mutually beneficial outcomes for museums, Māori and taonga Māori collections. The core research of this dissertation is a case study of the Tairāwhiti Museum Taonga Māori Audit. This demonstrates the praxis of auditing; the concurrent application of kaitiakitanga and collection management principles; and the strategic outcomes that may be achieved when undertaking similar initiatives. At present the practice and implications of auditing for museums is an underdeveloped area of enquiry. This dissertation clarifies auditing and its emergence in museum practice; the current debates surrounding it; and examples of national and international auditing to place the Tairāwhiti Museum Audit within the broader context of museum based auditing. The Tairāwhiti Museum Audit demonstrates the rationale, implementation and potential benefits of auditing as a strategic collection management tool. To provide an epistemological framework for the Tairāwhiti Museum Audit the context of taonga Māori from the Māori worldview is clarified, and an overview of shifts toward the acknowledgement and application of mātauranga Māori principles in New Zealand museums is provided. The approach of the Tairāwhiti Museum toward the collection management of taonga has been influenced by external shifts, but more often has been progressive in its response toward meeting the expectations of local Māori and the needs of the taonga Māori collection. The Tairāwhiti Museum Audit is further evidence of this. The dissertation reveals the relevance of taonga to Māori, and demonstrates how kaitiakitanga principles can be applied to strategic collection management initiatives.