HE WHAREMOA TE RAKAURAKAU,,,, KA MAHUEMAHUE.... Máori engagement with lllocallocal gggovernment:government: kkknowledge,knowledge, eeexperiences,experiences, and rrrecommendationsrecommendationsecommendations.... A research project supported by the Royal Society of New Zealand Marsden Fund (MAU-039) CHRISTINE M CHEYNE VERONICA M H TAWHAI July 2007 i Published by: School of People, Environment and Planning Massey University Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North New Zealand Tel: 06 359-9099 ext 2816 Email:
[email protected] ii “If I knew there was an answer there, some hope there, yes I would.” He wharemoa te rakau, ka mahue. A hollow tree is left behind. iii ABSTRACT This report presents the data, analysis and results of focus group research that explored Máori knowledge, experiences and perspectives of local government in Aotearoa New Zealand. Seven focus groups were held with different groups of Máori; 18 – 24 year olds in tertiary study; 18 – 24 year olds in the workforce; people 25 years old and over residing in rural areas, and people 25 years old and over living in urban settings. The purpose of this report is to present the research findings about the knowledge and experiences of Máori in relation to local government, and in particular, their recommendations for the development of the local government sector. It is intended to assist local authorities in their efforts to improve their engagement with Máori, and stimulate further research with Máori about Máori participation in local government decision-making. iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Royal Society of New Zealand is acknowledged for the funds that enabled this project to take place.