Developing a model for integrated leadership succession planning in Post-Settlement Governance Entities : a praxis approach : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand

Abstract

The thesis examines key factors that influence leadership succession planning in Post-Settlement Governance Entity in Aotearoa New Zealand. The research was made possible through the long-standing relationship between iwi organisation, Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki Ngāti, a Post-Settlement Governance Entity (PSGE) and me, a non-Indigenous, non-Iwi business researcher (NIR). The context for the research method is based on how a NIR and an iwi organisation can approach a research project together. The research is framed by two questions. Research Question 1 asks ‘How should a NIR approach research with an iwi organisation?’ (RQ1) and Research Question 2 asks ‘What factors influence leadership succession in PSGEs?’(RQ2). The research makes two significant contributions. In response to RQ1, the Framework for non-Indigenous Research Praxis (the Framework) represents a new model for non-Indigenous research not previously described in the literature. The Framework makes important contributions in the fields of non-Indigenous research methods and applied approaches to Kaupapa Māori research. The Framework aligns the NIR with Kaupapa Māori research principles and opens a space for NIRs to consider if, and how, they can make effective contributions in Indigenous research settings, as guided by their Indigenous research partners. RQ2 opens a comprehensive exploration of key factors that influence leadership succession in PSGEs. The response to RQ2 is the development of Te Aka Matua o Iwi Rua—Leadership Succession Model for Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa (the Model). The thesis considers leadership succession planning from a strategic organisational risk perspective and offers a detailed and adaptive model for an integrated approach to leadership succession planning and risk mitigation for the Rūnanga. The research makes a significant contribution to the field of leadership succession planning in PSGEs.