What is whānau research in the context of marae/ hapū-based archives? A literature review for the Whakamanu Research Project 

This literature review examines the definitions, methodologies, and practices of whānau (extended family) research within the context of marae-based (traditional Māori place of gathering) archives and taonga (Māori treasures; highly prized artefacts, tangible and intangible) preservation. This literature review will explore six areas of inquiry, namely: understanding whānau research; whānau research and the nature of taonga; the impact of colonisation on oral whānau research; the intersection of archives and museums; digitising taonga and whānau research; and lastly, the revival of whānau archival research. This literature review illustrates the historical context surrounding whānau research through the lens of archiving, preserving, and housing taonga. The historical context can inform future issues of organisation, access, and management, as taonga has the potentiality to be housed on marae or use contemporary storage methods involving online and digital spaces. 

Download Whakamanu PDF