Tikanga Maori : from concept to practice

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. 11 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.