Abstract:
This thesis examines the potential of a kaupapa Māori sporting initiative, IronMāori to support Māori participants to “live as Māori” (Durie, 2001). Although this is a thesis in the field of education, the topic also falls within a health and wellbeing context, and the two are brought together in Mason Durie’s (2001) educational goals, in particular, to live as Māori. This research highlights how the utilisation of Māori cultural concepts, values and practices contributes to whānau resilience and wellbeing. Using a kaupapa Māori methodology and following pūrākau (narratives/stories) as a qualitative inquiry method, three IronMāori participants share their “lived experiences” as stories of inspiration.