Abstract:
This thesis explores the context of tikanga Māori and its place in the evolution of Māori architecture. Tikanga Māori is considered as the Māori way of doing things and can adapt and evolve with time. Tūhoe are the iwi of Te Urewera, who have a long history of residence shared with past tribes and an evolving culture of Tūhoetanga. Throughout time, Tūhoe have displayed innovation and adaptation of their tikanga within their culture and architecture. In an age where western technologies are at an accelerated pace and restrictions are continuously introduced, questions arise as to how much tikanga can adapt and develop.The marae is at the core of Māori culture and architecture, where tikanga is at its firmest and developments become complex. This project studies the marae of Waimana and the historical narratives which informed Waimana today, to influence architecture that respects this past. Te hui Ahurei a Tūhoe is a unique cultural event that celebrates Tūhoetanga, which is temporarily located every two years. Te kāinga o te hui ahurei a Tūhoe provides permanence for the cultural event at the heart of Māori culture, the marae. Informed by the narratives and values of Waimana, the project draws from history to provoke cultural progression in a timeless architecture that represents Tūhoe.