Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book suggests that a more meaningful incorporation of concepts that underpin tikanga Māori, within the current criminal justice system, could potentially lead to a reduction in recidivism and offending rates for Māori. It further suggests that the Marae could be the appropriate forum to implement these concepts. Statistics provides an undesirable groundswell and subsequent catalyst that drives this book to seek answers. The book overviews the criminality and the relationship between Māori and the criminal justice system, including areas of criminal offending, parole and mental health. It discusses who are Māori and what is tikanga Māori. The book examines the historical and contemporary criminal justice initiatives, including Māori juries, Māori wardens and Family Group Conferences. It provides an historical review of the introduction of English law and legal systems and the adverse impact this has had on tikanga Māori.