ABSTRACT
This chapter reflects the processes that are involved in carrying out successful and meaningful research with families/whanau. Indigenous research has been heavily influenced by Eurocentric views and philosophies. In Aotearoa/New Zealand Maori have been intensely researched as a people by Pakeha (non-Maori) researchers who have seldom involved Maori in the development of their research projects. It is important that any research that involves whanau, hapu and iwi does not further perpetuate the oppressive stories of old, but ensures that the research process is culturally appropriate and that findings are readily useable by iwi. The research project involved an exploration of the provision of social services in an iwi context. Ngati Raukawa has always been committed to the health and wellbeing of its people, believing that its people are its most prized possession. Individual interventionist models of social service delivery have historically failed Maori families/whanau, and Ngati Raukawa iwi were recommending preventive strengths-based approaches.
