7 Oct 2013

Maori, Hawaiian speakers at conference

7:52 pm on 7 October 2013

] Maori and Hawaiian speakers have gathered in Hamilton for a conference which will assert that traditional indigenous knowledge is the key to dealing with issues facing indigenous children and their whanau.

The panel includes Maori researchers from Waikato University's Te Kotahi Research Institute, and Dr Jamee Miller, of Hawaii's Queen Lili'uokalani Children's Center.

Te Kotahi Research Institute director Dr Leonie Pihama says it is working on a project called Tiakina Pā Harakeke, which is supported by Nga Pae o te Maramatanga and explores traditional Maori views on child rearing.

The conference will also discuss cultural concepts and practices that will provide models for intervention in issues that face children and families.