Abstract

This paper explores how whakapapa (genealogy) and an understanding of traditional and contemporary meanings of whakapapa can be used by Māori researchers working among Māori communities today. In doing so, this paper emphasises that a research methodology framed by whakapapa not only authenticates Māori epistemology against Western traditions, it also supports the notion of a whakapapa research methodology being transplanted across the indigenous world; indigenous peoples researching among their indigenous communities worldwide. Consequently, indigenous identity is strengthened, as is the contribution of the concept of whakapapa to indigenous research paradigms worldwide.