Māoritanga and Tikanga

This chapter aims to provide sufficient understanding of important aspects of Māoritanga (Māori culture, way of life) and tikanga (Māori practices, values) that are relevant to the book’s objectives. Our aim is to provide a clear and concise understanding to readers with little or no background. It differs from traditional anthropological accounts in that we use the perspective of the Māori people of the study region today. We attempt to show the strong continuity of Māoritanga and tikanga over the past few centuries. It does not deviate substantially from typical scholarly definitions by anthropologists and Māori scholars, but there might be subtle regional or temporal differences. A glossary of Māori words used in the book is also included.