Publication Type: Journal Article
Publication Year: 2026
Author(s): Hannah Rapata
Journal Name: Te Manunui
Volume / Issue: Vol 1, Issue 1
DOI: https://doi.org/10.67466/temanunui.2026.1.1.6
Keywords
kaupapa Māori; Indigenous; methodology; Kāi Tahu/Ngāi Tahu
Abstract
Completing a doctorate as a Māori researcher within a Western research institute, whilst also engaging in decolonial and cultural revitalising practices in personal and professional settings, is a journey that stretches the mind and soul. This paper traces the development of my theoretical and methodological positioning for my doctoral research, alongside reflections on the type of researcher I want to be and the research I seek to undertake.
A detailed discussion of kaupapa Māori theory, methodologies, methods, and strategies of enquiry is presented, along with a framework for a Kāi Tahu research paradigm developed through my doctoral research, "Te Wharerau." The Te Wharerau framework is an example of an Indigenous research paradigm, used for grounding my research within localised places and knowledges. While originally developed for personal use, it may also be relevant for other tauira Kāi Tahu or rangahau projects specific to Kāi Tahu whānau.
