Abstract
Māori views are diverse, impacted by contextual factors and informed by ancestors and whakapapa. This dissertation explores Māori views on kai in relation to health and sustainability in Aotearoa. Climate change, designing healthy kai policy and sustainability are discussed before studying the literature. Existing research is explored via a narrative approach and organised into themes of Te Ao Māori, Colonisation, Existing Māori views and Kai Rangatiratanga. At the end of the literature review, research gaps and the rationale behind the research questions are presented. In the chapter on research design, qualitative methodological approaches are grounded in Kaupapa Māori theory. Kaupapa Māori methodology guided data collection, which was obtained from focus groups and key informant interviews with Māori stakeholders. Reflexivity is highlighted, allowing critical evaluation of my place in the power and construction of knowledge. The discussion and results are interwoven in an analysis chapter that presents Māori views on kai. The analysis ends with the following recommendations: (1.) recognise our right to enact Kai Rangatiratanga, (2.) take responsibility for creating the necessary conditions to allow Māori to access healthy and sustainable kai in Aotearoa and (3.) listen to Māori and centre our views when designing initiatives. Māori views on kai should form the basis of healthy and sustainable kai policy in Aotearoa.