Abstract
Improving Māori housing is a vital part of improving Māori health; however, little is known about the relationship between the lived experience of Māori in their existing and historic homes and whānau wellness. Without knowledge of what a health-promoting home is for whānau Māori, our ability to promote the health of whānau, hapū and iwi is critically compromised. This project addressed that gap in knowledge in order to contribute to new solutions in Māori housing. The research questions were (1) Why have there been ongoing and significant disparities between Māori and non-Māori, despite over a century of attention and intervention? and (2) What is the relationship between whānau ora for whānau Māori, and housing? The research utilised a mixed-methods approach, drawing together historical data from primary and secondary sources, oral histories and contemporary accounts of home. A geographical case study was developed, focusing on the area that became the Karamu reserve, between the years 1850 and 1950. Sixteen Māori participated in in-depth interviews that were examined using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Kaumātua added guidance, experience and knowledge at all stages to the research process. Historical analysis showed Government policy had been first destructive, then inadequate in addressing Māori housing needs. Qualitative analysis of the interviews found health to be a dynamic, indivisible state in which wellness is determined by the quality of mauri: the built environment, layout and the use of space, moveable items within the home, as well as access to and connection with the natural world are central to the health-promoting home for whānau Māori.