How come European New Zealanders embraced the native Maori tradition while Australians did not?
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I think there are two concepts that are key to New Zealand embracing the native tradition that might be missing from the Australian aboriginals – Tikanga (Societal Lore) and Mātauranga (Science). Both compliments with the Europeans’ understanding of the world and allow both cultures to collaborate.
Tikanga encompasses Māori customs, practices, and values, provides a framework for how individuals and communities should interact with one another and the environment. It ensures that cultural practices are respected and preserved, fostering a sense of continuity and belonging within Māori society.
Mātauranga, on the other hand, represents the vast body of traditional Māori knowledge, encompassing everything from cosmology, ecology, and genealogy to practical skills and environmental management. Together, these concepts help maintain cultural integrity and resilience, ensuring that Māori heritage is not only preserved but actively practiced and celebrated.
As someone who used to work in NZ, those values are reflected in our work in the public sector – We start our meetings with a karakia, and ensure our work aligns with Tikanga and Mātauranga.
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