What is Mauri?

“It [Mauri] is the force that interpenetrates all things to bind and knit them together and as the various element’s diversity, mauri acts as the bonding element creating unity in diversity.”
Māori Marsden Nov 14, 2015

In this video clip, Precious Clark - elected representative of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust, and former trustee of Foundation North - reflects on what mauri means to her on a personal and community level.

GIFT has created a space to introduce mauri and related concepts to non-Māori. Mauri raises the more intangible things that influence human systems, such as culture, emotional and spiritual connections. Mauri demands more holistic thinking and collective action, adds depth and rigour, and highlights the fundamental relationship between people and the rest of nature.

Placing mauri at the centre of GIFT’s vision has created an energy and shift in mindset for many within the GIFT network. The intent is to build on this foundation to grow understanding of mauri and Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview) across the network, and to track the impact of this increased understanding on grantees, the GIFT network and GIFT vision.

To help deepen understanding of mauri and Te Ao Māori, a wānanga was held in August 2019 with over 60 members of the GIFT network at Ōrākei Marae.

To help deepen understanding of mauri and Te Ao Māori, a wānanga was held in August 2019 with over 60 members of the GIFT network at Ōrākei Marae.

Insights into the meaning of mauri

In this article, GIFT Mātauranga Science Advisor Dr Daniel Hikuroa explains mauri in more detail and how it can inform the development of a project and guide implementation.

Insights into mātauranga

In this clip, Dr Daniel Hikuroa explains how mātauranga Māori can enhance our conservation activities.

In the New Zealand Science Review Vol 75 (4) 2019 read this excerpt from the Special Issue – Mātauranga and Science.

Guidelines of ethical approaches to engage in relationships with Māori

Building relationships with Iwi/Māori and Mana Whenua via GIFT is a priority. GIFT has devised guidelines for ethical approaches for such engagement here.

Mauri Wananga webinar

Mauri panel session where four esteemed practitioners (Kevin Prime, Teina Boasa-Dean, Sheridan Waitai and Kelly Kahukiwa) shared their mātauranga on mauri. 

Teina Boasa-Dean: How Māori principles can be utilised today

Indigenous Knowledge Has Value

Curtis Bristowe on the power of Kawa, Tikanga, and Kaupapa to provide answers to today's problems.