University of Canterbury

Project Summary

This internship explored the wellbeing benefits of daily karakia and waiata at the University of Canterbury, highlighting their role in fostering cultural connection and belonging.
Using a braided rivers methodology, the project captured staff and student experiences of these powerful tikanga Māori practices.

This summer internship investigated the evolution of te reo Māori by examining its linguistic structures, oral traditions, and the impact of historical and policy changes. The research aimed to enhance educational outcomes by analysing phonology, orthography, and teaching approaches, concluding with recommendations for compulsory curricula to better support te reo Māori learners.

This project explored how tamariki, rangatahi, and their whānau thrived in a changing world by supporting Māori wellbeing and success in diverse workplaces. Through research, interviews, and stakeholder input, it aimed to create a Māori-led Change Management Model and policy framework to foster sustainable incomes, cultural revitalisation, and balanced work–life wellbeing for Māori.

This proposed research will undertake a co-generative process with our community and collaborating researchers to scope and develop specific research questions that would form the basis of individual applications to three funding bodies. However, our meetings to date have broader research questions that have been discussed so far include: