A kin community study: Utilising whakapapa as a research methodology

Abstract

Central to Māori culture is whakapapa. Whakapapa can be defined in several ways, such as genealogy or taxonomic framework. A fundamental element of whakapapa is the connections between people, land and entities. Whakapapa is a holistic concept that embraces the natural (physical) and spiritual worlds. It can act as both a theoretical and practical platform for research. It also provides an ethical, respectful and appropriate way to conduct research with Māori communities by revealing their perspectives, experiences and priorities. This article discusses how whakapapa can be utilised as a research methodology for a Māori kin community study. Whakapapa is a complex and multilayered concept that encompasses many components. This article examines the layers of whakapapa, defining what it is and its critical components. Then, it explains how whakapapa can be utilised as a research methodology for a Māori kin community study. It draws on my doctoral study to demonstrate how whakapapa can be successfully utilised as a research framework to understand, explain, and interpret knowledge and information regarding a kin community.