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Ngā Wāhine Ariki Tapairu o Te Arawa: Te Kuraimonoa, Kearoa, Whakaotirangi

Abstract
Similar to many other iwi (tribes) in Aotearoa, the Arawa people have a rich ancestral heritage that traces back to our origins in Hawaiki through our esteemed canoe traditions. However, within these narratives, the prominence of our heroic male ancestors tends to overshadow the stories of their wives, who are often mentioned merely as secondary characters. Te Kuraimonoa, Kearoa, and Whakaotirangi represent the first three women to be named in Te Arawa traditions, yet their narratives remain vague, existing only from a male perspective. Although their names can be found scattered throughout European and Māori literature, their stories are fragmented and incomplete, varying from tribe to tribe. The objective of this research is to delve into these three ancestresses' lives from a Te Arawa female perspective, aiming to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding. Employing a mixed-method research approach, this study will investigate Māori and European literature, supplemented by thematical analysis to study and compare data gathered from interviews with female Te Arawa descendants. The insights gained from this endeavour will contribute to the creation of substantial knowledge that can benefit both present and future generations. Comprising of seven chapters, this thesis unfolds as follows: Chapter one introduces the research purpose and provides an overview of the subsequent chapters. Chapter two outlines the research methodology employed. Chapter three presents an in-depth exploration of Te Arawa iwi, elucidating their significance and cultural context. Chapter four encompasses a comprehensive literature review, while chapter five is solely dedicated to the insights derived from the interview dialogues. Chapter six delves into the findings and engages in detailed discussions, offering a comprehensive analysis. Lastly, chapter seven serves as the conclusion, summarizing the key findings and their implications.
Type
Thesis
Type of thesis
Series
Citation
Date
2023
Publisher
The University of Waikato
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