Manaaki Tāngata - The Secret to Happiness: Narratives from Older Māori in the Bay of Plenty

Abstract

In the next few decades, whilst Māori society will remain relatively youthful, there will also be a significant increase in the older age group, aligning with worldwide population ageing trends. In order to provide an environment that fosters wellbeing and happiness in this older age group, it is imperative to understand the factors and conditions that enable Māori to live well. A limitation of current wellbeing literature is the dominance of Western universal models and measures of wellbeing that do not reflect Māori perspectives, constructs and worldview. This study investigates older Māori experiences of happiness over their lifetime to better understand the way in which happiness is conceptualised. Kaupapa Māori Theory (KMT) underpins all aspects of this research, framing the methodology and analysis through the lens of a Māori worldview and being cognisant of the effect of historical, social, environmental and political processes on Māori lives. A qualitative approach was used and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 older Māori from the Bay of Plenty, aged between 80 and 90 years. This sample included those older Māori securely connected to their Māori identity and those with a dual cultural identity (Māori and NZ European). A conceptual framework of happiness for older Māori was derived from Kaupapa Māori qualitative thematic analysis, where happiness is viewed in a holistic way that enhances ‘mana’ and promotes a meaningful existence through Mana Atua – A connection and commitment to the larger universe; Mana Tūpuna – Strengthened genealogical relationships; Mana Tangata – Realisation of human potential and Mana Whenua – Harmonious integration and unity with the environment.’ The conceptualisation of happiness in this study reflects experiences across the lifespan, rather than old age alone, which provides insights to happiness that may not only be of relevance to older Māori, but also to younger generations of Māori.