Research Projects

Across histories of pandemic events, epidemics and serious infectious disease threats and challenges, Māori have fared the most poorly of all populations.

This project prepares and defines a pathway forward for mātauranga Māori in the context of pandemic preparedness, iwi resilience and infectious diseases to co-exist in partnership with scientific knowledge. This study seeks to comprehend and distinguish mātauranga Māori – te ao Māori tikanga (methods) of pandemic phases, infection prevention, control and management as a body of knowledge that is meaningful and in application able to be implemented, observed and practiced.

This project, adopts a rangatahi-focused approach in addressing infectious diseases and pandemic preparedness, uniquely positioning within the landscape of te ao Māori and rangahau Māori.

While the project has a particular focus on rangatahi Māori, it acknowledges the intergenerational impact of infectious diseases and the importance of community-wide involvement in pandemic preparedness.

The rangahau will develop a framework for understanding infectious disease research in a manner that resonates with rangatahi and Māori communities, whānau, hapū and iwi of Aotearoa. It will lay the foundations for the development of comprehensive strategies for managing infectious diseases, particularly those disproportionately affecting Māori.