Abstract
We are living in a rapidly changing, data-seeking, and DNA-testing world. Now, more than ever, your DNA can be tested for a variety of reasons – whether this is through research, medical testing, or to uncover more about your ancestry. No matter the avenue, people are providing their genetic information; but do they know the true value of what they’re handing over? This dissertation provides an opportunity to build the capacity of Ōtākou rakatahi in genetics and DNA, and how this relates to whakapapa. Furthermore, this dissertation gains insight into the whakaaro of these rakatahi in how they believe learning about DNA can be more accessible to whānau across Kāi Tahu. This dissertation utilises kaupapa Māori research alongside a pragmatic paradigm, with input from critical theory, constructionism, and interpretivist approaches. These provide the foundation for implementing a wānaka methodology based around five methodological components – capacity building, whānau/whanaukataka, wāhi haumaru, utu, and hauora. 10 participants from Ōtākou marae were invited to participate, from which four were able to attend the day of the wānaka. The wānaka utilised four different qualitative methods: a pre-wānaka information sheet; an interactive, informative presentation; two hui-ā-rōpū; and a post-wānaka questionnaire. The wānaka was audio recorded and manually transcribed into minute-like notes that were checked by participants before using. Themes were manually formulated from these notes and post- questionnaire responses. Results identified what participants learnt at the wānaka, changes they believed need to be made to make information more accessible, and their views on a human DNA policy and whakapapa-based DNA database. The discussion explores the steps participants recommended for future mahi/research to take place with Kāi Tahu whānau; across the iwi with all hapū/papatipu rūnaka and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.