Abstract:
This presentation considers both some of the recent history and the pre- history of a community project aimed at creating a ‘living museum’ at an important historical site in Auckland. I unpack the tensions of co-operative ventures between local Maori and interested pakeha institutions. The museum project recognised that ventures need to be iwi-determined, and thus would be assured to meet the aspirations of the local people Waiohua. As an advisor in this project, I describe some of the mainly informal learning situations I was party to, as the project unfolded and the emphasis shifted from a dream, to the creation of self- employed business or SME' with required outcomes. I conclude with a brief discussion of the ‘enterprise culture’, the employment issues for environmental and community volunteers and the tradition of broader engagement.
