Abstract:
The cultural practices of the Maori, or tikanga, are a fundamental part ofTe Ao Maori
(the Maori world). As manifestations of the culture, tikanga encapsulate Maori ethos and
philosophies. Embedded within these cultural practices are the values and beliefs of nga
tupuna, our ancestors.
As the title suggests, this thesis is concerned with the understandings and meanings of
tikanga and the fundamental concepts that underpin the rituals and customs of the Maori.
This thesis also explores tribal and sub-tribal variations in customary practices and how
these are the diverse expressions of the culture as a whole. The meanings that Maori
have of the word tikanga and the variety of ways these meanings are expressed are
explained through the analysis of several customary concepts and practices.
A secondary focus of this work is to explore the fluidity of the Maori culture and to note
the impact of external forces, such as colonisation and the assimilationist policies of the
Pakeha (European) on our notions and practice of tikanga.
The colonisation process has had a dire effect on Te Ao Maori. Western hegemony and
policies of assimilation have impacted gravely on the social, economic, ecologic, spiritual
and psychological spheres of the Maori. As a consequence, the culture, language and
customary practices of the Maori have struggled to survive against the encroachment of
the dominant European culture.
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The overall aim of this thesis is then to further the illlderstanding of tikanga; how they
have survived, adapted, evolved or become defunct, as we have progressed from the time
of our ancestors to the modem day.