Ngā Wai Rerekē: the water streams of difference

Abstract

Māori-centred research reflects a partnership between Māori and non-Māori researchers, working together on projects designed to benefit whānau Māori (Māori families). Such cross-cultural partnerships are challenging, particularly when embedded within Western-centred academic environments. The goal of our project was to review publications discussing how Māori-centred research had been or should be undertaken to identify ways such research partnerships could be better supported in academia. From a structured review of 19 articles, we generated a model of partnership, Ngā Wai Rerekē (water streams of difference), that incorporates key concepts of whakapapa (history), whanaungatanga (relationship), mana ōrite (shared management), kotahitanga (unity), wero (challenge), and he koha mō te iwi Māori (benefit for Māori). Ngā Wai Rerekē is a model of two streams coming together to form a river, reflecting the relationship between Māori and non-Māori. The model emphasises the importance of this relationship between research partners over the research project. It highlights the necessity of beneficial outcomes for Māori, discusses the challenges that commonly present, and describes actions that can facilitate stronger relationships. At the conclusion, we present recommendations for individuals and institutions to facilitate Māori-centred research in a way that promotes meaningful outcomes for whānau Māori.