@article{houghton_transformative_2025,
	title = {The transformative potential of the {Tīvaevae} {Model} in educational and research practices – “{Threading} the {Needle}”},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108839},
	abstract = {The Tīvaevae Model offers a versatile approach for researchers, particularly those of Cook Islands or Pacific descent, to address emerging needs or inquiries within a variety of research settings. In this article, we explore its adaptability and expansion, emphasising its capacity to accommodate diverse approaches without imposing rigid structures. As Cook Islands educators, early career researchers, and one of us a creator of physical tīvaevae, we will examine how the Tīvaevae Model can facilitate transformative processes in both research and practice. Our discussion includes reflection on family connections to tīvaevae, highlighting the significance of familial ties and cultural connections and intergenerational knowledge and understanding focusing on the creation of both physical and metaphorical tīvaevae, distinguishing between its tangible craft and symbolic meaning. We will discuss the versatility of tīvaevae, reflecting on the way it can challenge research paradigms and play a role as a continued cultural practice in new environments. By synthesising our insights and proposing to extend the Tīvaevae Model in a diasporic context through such cultural practices as o’ora, this article will demonstrate the transformative potential of the Tīvaevae Model in enriching research and educational practices within Pacific communities.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Houghton, Christopher and Houghton, Josua and Houghton, Joseph},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

The Tīvaevae Model offers a versatile approach for researchers, particularly those of Cook Islands or Pacific descent, to address emerging needs or inquiries within a variety of research settings. In this article, we explore its adaptability and expansion, emphasising its capacity to accommodate diverse approaches without imposing rigid structures. As Cook Islands educators, early career researchers, and one of us a creator of physical tīvaevae, we will examine how the Tīvaevae Model can facilitate transformative processes in both research and practice. Our discussion includes reflection on family connections to tīvaevae, highlighting the significance of familial ties and cultural connections and intergenerational knowledge and understanding focusing on the creation of both physical and metaphorical tīvaevae, distinguishing between its tangible craft and symbolic meaning. We will discuss the versatility of tīvaevae, reflecting on the way it can challenge research paradigms and play a role as a continued cultural practice in new environments. By synthesising our insights and proposing to extend the Tīvaevae Model in a diasporic context through such cultural practices as o’ora, this article will demonstrate the transformative potential of the Tīvaevae Model in enriching research and educational practices within Pacific communities.

@article{henry_tivaevae_2025,
	title = {The {Tīvaevae} methodology and its application to palliative care research},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108840},
	abstract = {Health researchers have an ethical responsibility to ensure their research aligns with the health and wellbeing needs, solutions, and aspirations of the communities they study. This ethical responsibility is often heightened in palliative care research. This article reflects on the use of the Tīvaevae methodology – a Cook Islands research methodology – in a study which aimed to understand what palliative care means to Cook Islands families in New Zealand. There is limited research on the needs and understanding of palliative care for Pacific peoples and a near absence of literature that focuses on the needs of Cook Islands peoples in palliative care. More broadly, there is little documented on Cook Islands cultural understandings and knowledge on death, dying, and end-of-life care. As the majority of Cook Islanders reside in New Zealand, and new generations of Cook Islanders in New Zealand find themselves in the position of becoming caregivers to palliative (and often older) family members, understanding what their needs are will be important for families and clinicians alike. In this article, I argue that the Tīvaevae methodology can be used as a guide in the process of contextualising the concept of palliative care to understand palliative care within a Cook Islands context.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Henry, Amy E.},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

Health researchers have an ethical responsibility to ensure their research aligns with the health and wellbeing needs, solutions, and aspirations of the communities they study. This ethical responsibility is often heightened in palliative care research. This article reflects on the use of the Tīvaevae methodology – a Cook Islands research methodology – in a study which aimed to understand what palliative care means to Cook Islands families in New Zealand. There is limited research on the needs and understanding of palliative care for Pacific peoples and a near absence of literature that focuses on the needs of Cook Islands peoples in palliative care. More broadly, there is little documented on Cook Islands cultural understandings and knowledge on death, dying, and end-of-life care. As the majority of Cook Islanders reside in New Zealand, and new generations of Cook Islanders in New Zealand find themselves in the position of becoming caregivers to palliative (and often older) family members, understanding what their needs are will be important for families and clinicians alike. In this article, I argue that the Tīvaevae methodology can be used as a guide in the process of contextualising the concept of palliative care to understand palliative care within a Cook Islands context.

@article{kokaua-balfour_community_2025,
	title = {Community inquiry, wellbeing and the {Tīvaevae} {Method}: {Findings} from {Dunedin}’s {Ora}'anga {Meitaki} ‘{Iri}'irikāpua},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Community inquiry, wellbeing and the {Tīvaevae} {Method}},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108841},
	abstract = {In 2021, Te Vaka Cook Islands of Dunedin Incorporated (Te Vaka) facilitated a series of workshops exploring concepts of “wellbeing” from a Cook Islands Māori community perspective. Te Vaka represents the main administrative organisation for te ꞌŌire Ōtepoti (a name for the Dunedin-based Cook Islands community) and has led a range of community initiatives. This paper reflects on the planning and delivery of a Te Vaka workshop named te Ora'anga Meitaki 'Iri'irikāpua (te 'Iri'irikapua). The project was funded in partnership with Pacific Trust Otago, a local charitable trust supporting Pacific communities in Dunedin, who suggested the Tīvaevae Method be used to ensure a culturally embedded research approach. Throughout the project, there were strengths and weaknesses in applying the Tīvaevae Method to a very specific demographic and community setting, revealing that perceptions of tīvaevae varied within te ꞌŌire Ōtepoti according to age, gender, and individual experience, and these perceptions ultimately shaped how the Tīvaevae Method was applied in this project. The main outcome of te 'Iri'irikāpua was a shared community-led vision for how wellbeing is understood from the perspective of ꞌŌire Ōtepoti and demonstrates the potential of community-centred and community-initiated research produced by and for the community.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Kokaua-Balfour, Stacey and Taripo-Walter, Inano and Moeroa, Keni},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

In 2021, Te Vaka Cook Islands of Dunedin Incorporated (Te Vaka) facilitated a series of workshops exploring concepts of “wellbeing” from a Cook Islands Māori community perspective. Te Vaka represents the main administrative organisation for te ꞌŌire Ōtepoti (a name for the Dunedin-based Cook Islands community) and has led a range of community initiatives. This paper reflects on the planning and delivery of a Te Vaka workshop named te Ora'anga Meitaki 'Iri'irikāpua (te 'Iri'irikapua). The project was funded in partnership with Pacific Trust Otago, a local charitable trust supporting Pacific communities in Dunedin, who suggested the Tīvaevae Method be used to ensure a culturally embedded research approach. Throughout the project, there were strengths and weaknesses in applying the Tīvaevae Method to a very specific demographic and community setting, revealing that perceptions of tīvaevae varied within te ꞌŌire Ōtepoti according to age, gender, and individual experience, and these perceptions ultimately shaped how the Tīvaevae Method was applied in this project. The main outcome of te 'Iri'irikāpua was a shared community-led vision for how wellbeing is understood from the perspective of ꞌŌire Ōtepoti and demonstrates the potential of community-centred and community-initiated research produced by and for the community.

@article{young_cook_2025,
	title = {Cook {Islands} values and epistemologies in biological anthropology research: {Case} studies of historic human skeletal collections},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Cook {Islands} values and epistemologies in biological anthropology research},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108842},
	abstract = {The Cook Islands has been a popular site for archaeological digs and excavations in past decades as biological anthropologists seek to better understand the migration of ancestral Polynesians out of Southeast Asia and the Polynesian colonisation of the Pacific Ocean. As a result of these excavations, several historic human skeletal collections exist of Cook Islands kōivi tangata (ancestral remains), although these are largely unknown because they are not displayed publicly and remain in storage. It is imperative that Cook Islands communities become aware of these so that they have the power and autonomy to decide what they want to do with their ancestors. This paper reflects on two case studies where Cook Islands values, principles, and processes were used to engage with historic human skeletal collections. Firstly, I discuss how the Tīvaevae methodology was used to reconstruct the identities of human skeletal remains that were part of a historic anatomical skeletal collection. Although these remains were of South Asian ancestry, and not kōivi tangata, the Tīvaevae methodology promoted an environment of respect where the cultural identities of the remains could be discussed. Secondly, I reflect on how the Cook Islands values of community, collaboration, and connection were essential for driving the repatriation of 142 Mangaian kōivi tangata back to Mangaia after four decades of being displaced. These case studies demonstrate the value of Cook Islands cultures and processes in advancing the field of biological anthropology. In turn, it is the duty and responsibility of biological anthropologists to assist, empower, and advance Cook Islands communities.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Young, Cameron D.},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

The Cook Islands has been a popular site for archaeological digs and excavations in past decades as biological anthropologists seek to better understand the migration of ancestral Polynesians out of Southeast Asia and the Polynesian colonisation of the Pacific Ocean. As a result of these excavations, several historic human skeletal collections exist of Cook Islands kōivi tangata (ancestral remains), although these are largely unknown because they are not displayed publicly and remain in storage. It is imperative that Cook Islands communities become aware of these so that they have the power and autonomy to decide what they want to do with their ancestors. This paper reflects on two case studies where Cook Islands values, principles, and processes were used to engage with historic human skeletal collections. Firstly, I discuss how the Tīvaevae methodology was used to reconstruct the identities of human skeletal remains that were part of a historic anatomical skeletal collection. Although these remains were of South Asian ancestry, and not kōivi tangata, the Tīvaevae methodology promoted an environment of respect where the cultural identities of the remains could be discussed. Secondly, I reflect on how the Cook Islands values of community, collaboration, and connection were essential for driving the repatriation of 142 Mangaian kōivi tangata back to Mangaia after four decades of being displaced. These case studies demonstrate the value of Cook Islands cultures and processes in advancing the field of biological anthropology. In turn, it is the duty and responsibility of biological anthropologists to assist, empower, and advance Cook Islands communities.

@article{kainuku_centralising_2025,
	title = {Centralising the {Tīvaevae} research framework: {A} tapestry of guidance, practice, and clarity},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Centralising the {Tīvaevae} research framework},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108843},
	abstract = {This article presents a reflective account demonstrating how a Cook Islands research methodology was critical in supporting the investigation of an ethnic-specific nursing programme’s impact on Cook Islands Māori tauira (student) attrition and academic success. Being deeply grounded in Cook Islands theories of relationality, the Tīvaevae framework (Futter-Puati and Maua-Hodges, 2019) guided my Masters research project exploring the lived experiences, perspectives, and insights of Cook Islands graduates during their training in a Bachelor of Nursing Pacific (BNP) programme. In this article, I discuss how the four key stages and crucial values of the Tīvaevae framework were implemented during the research process, and how the framework provided both qualitative and culturally specific methods. Utilising the Tīvaevae resulted in research that was culturally cohesive and responsive to the needs of my Cook Islands participants, well beyond what Western methods could achieve alone. This article illustrates the use of culturally safe approaches to mixed-methods qualitative research involving Cook Islands people},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Kainuku, Yvonne Joan},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

This article presents a reflective account demonstrating how a Cook Islands research methodology was critical in supporting the investigation of an ethnic-specific nursing programme’s impact on Cook Islands Māori tauira (student) attrition and academic success. Being deeply grounded in Cook Islands theories of relationality, the Tīvaevae framework (Futter-Puati and Maua-Hodges, 2019) guided my Masters research project exploring the lived experiences, perspectives, and insights of Cook Islands graduates during their training in a Bachelor of Nursing Pacific (BNP) programme. In this article, I discuss how the four key stages and crucial values of the Tīvaevae framework were implemented during the research process, and how the framework provided both qualitative and culturally specific methods. Utilising the Tīvaevae resulted in research that was culturally cohesive and responsive to the needs of my Cook Islands participants, well beyond what Western methods could achieve alone. This article illustrates the use of culturally safe approaches to mixed-methods qualitative research involving Cook Islands people

@article{samu_tivaivai_2025,
	title = {A {Tivaivai} {Taorei} research framework developed for a pan-{Pacific} mental health study},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108845},
	abstract = {This paper discusses a Cook Islands Tivaivai Taorei research framework from an interdisciplinary, cross-institutional team (UoA, UoO) developed for use in a big data project. The project was funded by the Better Start National Science Challenge and utilised New Zealand Health Survey data within the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) to assess the mental health of Pacific peoples living in Aotearoa New Zealand. The aim of this paper is to describe the process of developing the Tivaivai Taorei framework to construct a culturally relevant and nuanced method for quantitative assessment. Through araꞌara and iriꞌiri kāpua (discussion and networking), we explored the process required for a meaningful undertaking of a quantitative study of mental wellbeing in Pacific adults and describe those findings in a way congruent to Pacific lived realities, understandings, and methods of storytelling. To assess the framework’s applicability, the application to the quantitative methods and interpretation of findings are outlined. Although Tivaivai Taorei is specifically a Cook Islands metaphor, this study demonstrates its applicability across a pan-Pacific (and perhaps extended) context.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Samu, Kathleen Forrest and van der Veer, Anita and Ruhe, Troy and Maua-Hodges, Teremoana and Milne, Barry and Kokaua, Jesse},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

This paper discusses a Cook Islands Tivaivai Taorei research framework from an interdisciplinary, cross-institutional team (UoA, UoO) developed for use in a big data project. The project was funded by the Better Start National Science Challenge and utilised New Zealand Health Survey data within the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) to assess the mental health of Pacific peoples living in Aotearoa New Zealand. The aim of this paper is to describe the process of developing the Tivaivai Taorei framework to construct a culturally relevant and nuanced method for quantitative assessment. Through araꞌara and iriꞌiri kāpua (discussion and networking), we explored the process required for a meaningful undertaking of a quantitative study of mental wellbeing in Pacific adults and describe those findings in a way congruent to Pacific lived realities, understandings, and methods of storytelling. To assess the framework’s applicability, the application to the quantitative methods and interpretation of findings are outlined. Although Tivaivai Taorei is specifically a Cook Islands metaphor, this study demonstrates its applicability across a pan-Pacific (and perhaps extended) context.

@article{futter-puati_unpick_2025,
	title = {Unpick. {Re}-stitch: {Tivaevae}},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Unpick. {Re}-stitch},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108846},
	abstract = {This paper discusses the experimental use of the Tivaevae research framework and how it was applied as a pedagogical tool within secondary education classes. In extending the use of the Tivaevae framework as a tool for education, the author queried whether the Tivaevae could be unpicked, re-stitched, and reworked to be used in other ways. Could the process be used not only within research space(s), but as a culturally appropriate pedagogy and reflection tool in classrooms? This paper explores the use of a cultural philosophy enmeshed within the Tivaevae research framework and its application to education designed specifically for māpū (youth) in te Kūki ꞌĀirani (Cook Islands) secondary schools. The author experimented using these values and ideas within the development of a sexuality resource, as well as pedagogical tools for teachers and māpū. Reflected visually, classes design a ‘sexuality tivaevae’ as a guide ensuring their classroom is safe mentally and emotionally as they critically explore potentially sensitive topics such as sex. Using squares, akin to tivaevae tāꞌorei, key learning is documented. These squares can be stitched together providing an imagery to convey each student’s ‘learning tivaevae’ from their unit of study creating a metaphorical sexuality tivaevae. This story provides testimony of the ongoing legacy of the Tivaevae research framework and shares how the seeds sewn through relationships in the 1980s influence education in Kūki ꞌĀirani classrooms in the early 2000s, evidencing the enduring impact created through connection and context.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debi},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

This paper discusses the experimental use of the Tivaevae research framework and how it was applied as a pedagogical tool within secondary education classes. In extending the use of the Tivaevae framework as a tool for education, the author queried whether the Tivaevae could be unpicked, re-stitched, and reworked to be used in other ways. Could the process be used not only within research space(s), but as a culturally appropriate pedagogy and reflection tool in classrooms? This paper explores the use of a cultural philosophy enmeshed within the Tivaevae research framework and its application to education designed specifically for māpū (youth) in te Kūki ꞌĀirani (Cook Islands) secondary schools. The author experimented using these values and ideas within the development of a sexuality resource, as well as pedagogical tools for teachers and māpū. Reflected visually, classes design a ‘sexuality tivaevae’ as a guide ensuring their classroom is safe mentally and emotionally as they critically explore potentially sensitive topics such as sex. Using squares, akin to tivaevae tāꞌorei, key learning is documented. These squares can be stitched together providing an imagery to convey each student’s ‘learning tivaevae’ from their unit of study creating a metaphorical sexuality tivaevae. This story provides testimony of the ongoing legacy of the Tivaevae research framework and shares how the seeds sewn through relationships in the 1980s influence education in Kūki ꞌĀirani classrooms in the early 2000s, evidencing the enduring impact created through connection and context.

@article{hunter_reflecting_2025,
	title = {Reflecting on the use of {Tīvaevae} research methodology in mathematics education: {A} multi-dimensional perspective},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Reflecting on the use of {Tīvaevae} research methodology in mathematics education},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108847},
	abstract = {Ongoing challenges have been reported in relation to representation of diverse communities in mathematics education and related careers including those of Pacific heritage. This article maps reflections on how Tīvaevae as both an art form and research methodology can be used to disrupt deficit theorising towards Pacific students in mathematics classrooms with the goal of healing what Naepi and colleagues (2019) term the “broken pipeline”. This includes considering how Tīvaevae can be used as a basis for mathematical task design to integrate the everyday experiences and knowledge bases of Pacific peoples as well as a means to connect to Pacific values during mathematics teaching and learning. A second example provides a view of how the use of Tīvaevae research methodology coupled with a participatory research methodology (photo-voice) facilitated Pacific children and their families to become researchers of their own life-worlds. The article concludes by highlighting how culturally grounded research methodologies such as Tīvaevae offer opportunities to consider different ways of thinking about mathematics education.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Hunter, Jodie},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

Ongoing challenges have been reported in relation to representation of diverse communities in mathematics education and related careers including those of Pacific heritage. This article maps reflections on how Tīvaevae as both an art form and research methodology can be used to disrupt deficit theorising towards Pacific students in mathematics classrooms with the goal of healing what Naepi and colleagues (2019) term the “broken pipeline”. This includes considering how Tīvaevae can be used as a basis for mathematical task design to integrate the everyday experiences and knowledge bases of Pacific peoples as well as a means to connect to Pacific values during mathematics teaching and learning. A second example provides a view of how the use of Tīvaevae research methodology coupled with a participatory research methodology (photo-voice) facilitated Pacific children and their families to become researchers of their own life-worlds. The article concludes by highlighting how culturally grounded research methodologies such as Tīvaevae offer opportunities to consider different ways of thinking about mathematics education.

@article{rota-solomon_ko_2025,
	title = {Ko te tumu manako ko te {Tivaivai}: {Embracing} {Tivaivai}, enabling {Patu} {Tuatua}},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Ko te tumu manako ko te {Tivaivai}},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108848},
	abstract = {The Tīvaevae methodology as a metaphor gives voice to Cook Islands Māori peoples in the area of academic research (Maua-Hodges, 2016). The tivaivai represents Cook Islands Māori epistemology and ontological worldviews, making it a suitable metaphor to guide the research process for research in contexts focused on the lived experiences of not only Pasifika-Pacific peoples but, more specifically, Cook Islands Māori peoples. This fits in perfectly with my research which is focused on capturing the intergenerational stories of success for Cook Islands Māori students living in Tokoroa, Aotearoa New Zealand. When looking for an appropriate research methodology for my doctorate research in education, I was introduced to the Tīvaevae methodology by my supervisor Associate Professor David Fa'avae. With a desire to use a methodology that was specific to Cook Islands Māori, I was ecstatic to learn of Tīvaevae. Like other researchers before me, I have adapted the tivaivai metaphor to align with my Aitutaki heritage and my lived experience in 'Ōire Tokoroa. Hence, I use the term tivaivai, instead of tīvaevae. This paper will discuss the engagement of the tivaivai in research that captures stories of academic success, as well as providing a context for the introduction of patu tuatua – a Cook Islands cultural practice of storying. Patu tuatua is a conversation and a natural part of the tivaivai process, and therefore an appropriate method for collecting research data with Cook Islands Māori peoples.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Rota-Solomon, Tereapii},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

The Tīvaevae methodology as a metaphor gives voice to Cook Islands Māori peoples in the area of academic research (Maua-Hodges, 2016). The tivaivai represents Cook Islands Māori epistemology and ontological worldviews, making it a suitable metaphor to guide the research process for research in contexts focused on the lived experiences of not only Pasifika-Pacific peoples but, more specifically, Cook Islands Māori peoples. This fits in perfectly with my research which is focused on capturing the intergenerational stories of success for Cook Islands Māori students living in Tokoroa, Aotearoa New Zealand. When looking for an appropriate research methodology for my doctorate research in education, I was introduced to the Tīvaevae methodology by my supervisor Associate Professor David Fa'avae. With a desire to use a methodology that was specific to Cook Islands Māori, I was ecstatic to learn of Tīvaevae. Like other researchers before me, I have adapted the tivaivai metaphor to align with my Aitutaki heritage and my lived experience in 'Ōire Tokoroa. Hence, I use the term tivaivai, instead of tīvaevae. This paper will discuss the engagement of the tivaivai in research that captures stories of academic success, as well as providing a context for the introduction of patu tuatua – a Cook Islands cultural practice of storying. Patu tuatua is a conversation and a natural part of the tivaivai process, and therefore an appropriate method for collecting research data with Cook Islands Māori peoples.

@article{ruhe_tivaivai_2025,
	title = {A {Tivaivai} research framework: {A} strengths-based quantitative approach to {Pacific} health research},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {A {Tivaivai} research framework},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108849},
	abstract = {Although quantitative studies have a great deal to offer for Pacific health research, many findings have potential for deficit-framing and polarising for the communities they describe. There is a growing body of Pacific research frameworks but still few that focus on analyses that apply to quantitative studies, and even fewer considering a movement toward ethnicspecific research, thus incorporating current understandings around issues of Pacific data sovereignty and other ethical considerations. The aim of this paper is to extend our previously reported Tivaivai research framework (Kokaua et al., 2020), which was developed to ensure a Pacific worldview was integrated into analysing administrative data. In this paper, we generalise its applicability to an interdisciplinary setting. It is hoped that this paper may provide a starting point for other quantitative Pacific research projects involving administrative or other big data. It also provides a potential blueprint for any researchers, not only Cook Islanders and Pacific researchers, to be explicit about the values, principles, and connections we wish to uphold for the communities we study.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Ruhe, Troy and Bowden, Nicholas and Lucas, Albany and Richards, Rosalina and Kokaua, Jesse},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

Although quantitative studies have a great deal to offer for Pacific health research, many findings have potential for deficit-framing and polarising for the communities they describe. There is a growing body of Pacific research frameworks but still few that focus on analyses that apply to quantitative studies, and even fewer considering a movement toward ethnicspecific research, thus incorporating current understandings around issues of Pacific data sovereignty and other ethical considerations. The aim of this paper is to extend our previously reported Tivaivai research framework (Kokaua et al., 2020), which was developed to ensure a Pacific worldview was integrated into analysing administrative data. In this paper, we generalise its applicability to an interdisciplinary setting. It is hoped that this paper may provide a starting point for other quantitative Pacific research projects involving administrative or other big data. It also provides a potential blueprint for any researchers, not only Cook Islanders and Pacific researchers, to be explicit about the values, principles, and connections we wish to uphold for the communities we study.

@article{maua-hodges_manako_2025,
	title = {Manako 'o'onu kia 'o'onu atu te manako, thinking deeply and deeply thinking: {An} interview with {Teremoana} {Maua}-{Hodges}},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Manako 'o'onu kia 'o'onu atu te manako, thinking deeply and deeply thinking},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108837},
	abstract = {The origins of the Tīvaevae research model/method/methodology have remained somewhat a mystery, including its early history and the factors influencing its development to one of the most iconic and widely used piece of Cook Islands theory and culture in the world today. We sat down with its creator, Teremoana Maua-Hodges, to listen as she generously shared her stories and experiences that shaped her journey with the Tīvaevae. This in-person, nonformal interview was deeply personal and provided meaningful insights to the Tīvaevae, including its original forms of publication and the nuances of its spelling. Teremoana shared her aspirations for Cook Islands communities around the world and left us with a strong sense of hope for the future – one that could be facilitated by the values and principles of the Tīvaevae: love, respect, connection, and collaboration.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Maua-Hodges, Teremoana and Powell, Emma Ngakuravaru and Young, Cameron D.},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

The origins of the Tīvaevae research model/method/methodology have remained somewhat a mystery, including its early history and the factors influencing its development to one of the most iconic and widely used piece of Cook Islands theory and culture in the world today. We sat down with its creator, Teremoana Maua-Hodges, to listen as she generously shared her stories and experiences that shaped her journey with the Tīvaevae. This in-person, nonformal interview was deeply personal and provided meaningful insights to the Tīvaevae, including its original forms of publication and the nuances of its spelling. Teremoana shared her aspirations for Cook Islands communities around the world and left us with a strong sense of hope for the future – one that could be facilitated by the values and principles of the Tīvaevae: love, respect, connection, and collaboration.

@article{ngakuravaru_powell_introduction_2025,
	title = {Introduction: {Tīvaevae}: {Connection}, collaboration, and new directions in {Cook} {Islands} research},
	issn = {2463-641X},
	shorttitle = {Introduction},
	url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10092/108838},
	abstract = {It may be surprising to some that this is the first publication to collect reflections on the use of the Tīvaevae in scholarly discourse. Over the last decade, Cook Islands scholarship has grown significantly in volume and many of the graduate research theses and innovative policy frameworks produced over this time have invoked the stitched quilt as a way of Pacific Dynamics 9 Special Issue 2025 1000 conceptualising the relational threads that make up a Cook Islands imaginary. During this time, the Cook Islands world has experienced changes wrought by climate change, neocolonialism, and the transnationalism of its peoples and in this milieu, researchers have turned toward the cultural practices of ancestors to determine modes of thinking that can help make meaning of our relationships with one another as these forces reshape our lives. As a practice and a material object of the Cook Islands and the Eastern Pacific, the tīvaivai is quite simply iconic. Stunning in size, complexity, and aesthetic, the endurance of tīvaivai as a key part of the Cook Islands’ material culture has been driven by its ability to hold a mnemonic power that affirms ꞌakapapaꞌanga for each of us, created through the gathering of tāꞌunga tīvaivai and the stitching of aroꞌa into each piece of fabric that makes up the whole. There is an irony, then, in the predictable allure that the tīvaivai has had for critical minds over the last (almost) two decades, and the absence of any work that has attempted to cohere what those minds have produced.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-08-17},
	author = {Ngakuravaru Powell, Emma and Young, Cameron D.},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Macmillan Brown Centre for Pacific Studies},
}

It may be surprising to some that this is the first publication to collect reflections on the use of the Tīvaevae in scholarly discourse. Over the last decade, Cook Islands scholarship has grown significantly in volume and many of the graduate research theses and innovative policy frameworks produced over this time have invoked the stitched quilt as a way of Pacific Dynamics 9 Special Issue 2025 1000 conceptualising the relational threads that make up a Cook Islands imaginary. During this time, the Cook Islands world has experienced changes wrought by climate change, neocolonialism, and the transnationalism of its peoples and in this milieu, researchers have turned toward the cultural practices of ancestors to determine modes of thinking that can help make meaning of our relationships with one another as these forces reshape our lives. As a practice and a material object of the Cook Islands and the Eastern Pacific, the tīvaivai is quite simply iconic. Stunning in size, complexity, and aesthetic, the endurance of tīvaivai as a key part of the Cook Islands’ material culture has been driven by its ability to hold a mnemonic power that affirms ꞌakapapaꞌanga for each of us, created through the gathering of tāꞌunga tīvaivai and the stitching of aroꞌa into each piece of fabric that makes up the whole. There is an irony, then, in the predictable allure that the tīvaivai has had for critical minds over the last (almost) two decades, and the absence of any work that has attempted to cohere what those minds have produced.

@inproceedings{gilbert_crosslingual_2025,
	address = {Ljubljana, Slovenia},
	title = {Crosslingual {Dependency} {Parsing} of {Hawaiian} and {Cook} {Islands} {Māori} using {Universal} {Dependencies}},
	isbn = {979-8-89176-294-7},
	url = {https://aclanthology.org/2025.iwpt-1.5/},
	abstract = {This paper presents the first Universal Dependency (UD) treebank for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian). We discuss some of the difficulties in describing Hawaiian grammar using UD, and train models for automatic parsing. We also combined this data with UD parses from another Eastern Polynesian language, Cook Islands Māori, to train a crosslingual Polynesian parser using UDPipe2. The crosslingual parser produced a statistically significant improvement of 2.4\% in the labeled attachment score (LAS) when parsing Hawaiian, and this improvement didn't produce a negative impact in the LAS of Cook Islands Māori. We will use this parser to accelerate the linguistic documentation of Hawaiian.},
	urldate = {2025-08-09},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the 18th {International} {Conference} on {Parsing} {Technologies} ({IWPT}, {SyntaxFest} 2025)},
	publisher = {Association for Computational Linguistics},
	author = {Gilbert, Gabriel H. and Coto-Solanu, Rolando and Nicholas, Sally Akevai and Houchens, Lauren and Barton, Sabrina and Pryor, Trinity},
	editor = {Sagae, Kenji and Oepen, Stephan},
	month = aug,
	year = {2025},
	pages = {40--50},
}

This paper presents the first Universal Dependency (UD) treebank for ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian). We discuss some of the difficulties in describing Hawaiian grammar using UD, and train models for automatic parsing. We also combined this data with UD parses from another Eastern Polynesian language, Cook Islands Māori, to train a crosslingual Polynesian parser using UDPipe2. The crosslingual parser produced a statistically significant improvement of 2.4% in the labeled attachment score (LAS) when parsing Hawaiian, and this improvement didn't produce a negative impact in the LAS of Cook Islands Māori. We will use this parser to accelerate the linguistic documentation of Hawaiian.

@article{tuarii_why_2025,
	title = {Why did a small island state do so well? {The} {Cook} {Islands}’ {Government} response to {COVID}-19},
	volume = {25},
	copyright = {Copyright (c) 2025 Merita Tuari'i, Metua Bates, Douglas Lush, Megan Fidler, Bob Williams, Debi Futter-Puati, Heather Worth},
	issn = {2422-8656},
	shorttitle = {Why did a small island state do so well?},
	url = {https://www.pacifichealthdialog.nz/index.php/phd/article/view/166?fbclid=IwY2xjawLZTJRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETF1ODZsWkJQOXkzWXN1OVg5AR7IuASKo1t0SmsCXeKB_ohrygF4uh2_46aJXBtMZXjIxrH1B9LeNLHU8ZuaoQ_aem_9aFG8N6f8LayK68F1BNNbA},
	abstract = {Perceived vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States create a dialogue of smallness and susceptibility to the negative impacts of disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cook Islands’ response to COVID-19 stands out as a success story of resilience against implied vulnerability. Modelling showed the Cook Islands was expected to have hundreds of hospitalisations and tens of deaths, a relatively small but potentially significant burden on the small state. To date, the country has experienced five hospitalisations and two deaths. A combination of measures that relied on preparedness, self-reliance and collaboration enabled this small island state to beat the odds and come through the COVID-19 crisis relatively unscathed.},
	language = {en},
	number = {2},
	urldate = {2025-07-08},
	journal = {Pacific Health Dialog},
	author = {Tuari'i, Merita and Bates, Metua and Lush, Douglas and Fidler, Megan and Williams, Bob and Futter-Puati, Debi and Worth, Heather},
	month = jul,
	year = {2025},
	note = {Number: 2},
	keywords = {COVID-19, Cook Islands, Health Response, Pacific, Pandemic, Small Island Developing States},
	pages = {87--89},
}

Perceived vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States create a dialogue of smallness and susceptibility to the negative impacts of disasters such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Cook Islands’ response to COVID-19 stands out as a success story of resilience against implied vulnerability. Modelling showed the Cook Islands was expected to have hundreds of hospitalisations and tens of deaths, a relatively small but potentially significant burden on the small state. To date, the country has experienced five hospitalisations and two deaths. A combination of measures that relied on preparedness, self-reliance and collaboration enabled this small island state to beat the odds and come through the COVID-19 crisis relatively unscathed.

@article{daniel-atutolu_assessment_2025,
	title = {Assessment of mental health in {Cook} {Island} adolescents: a baseline survey},
	issn = {0303-6758},
	url = {https://doi.org/10.1080/03036758.2025.2486046},
	doi = {10.1080/03036758.2025.2486046},
	journal = {Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand},
	author = {Daniel-Atutolu, Metua and Daniela-Wong, Evangelene and Bay, Jacquie L. and Tamarua-Herman, Neti and Porio, Christine and Vickers, Mark H.},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Taylor \& Francis},
	keywords = {Cook Islands Author},
	pages = {1--13},
}

@article{wheeler_assessing_2025,
	title = {Assessing the gaps in cardiovascular disease risk assessment and management in primary care for {Māori} and {Pacific} peoples in {Aotearoa} {New} {Zealand}—a systematic review},
	volume = {56},
	issn = {2666-6065},
	journal = {The Lancet Regional Health–Western Pacific},
	author = {Wheeler, Annaliese and Rahiri, Jamie-Lee and Ellison-Lupena, Rochelle and Hanchard, Sandra and Brewer, Karen Marie and Paynter, Janine and Winter-Smith, Julie and Selak, Vanessa and Ameratunga, Shanthi and Grey, Corina},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Elsevier},
	keywords = {Cook Islands Author},
}

@incollection{rodrigo_qualitative_2025,
	address = {Cham},
	title = {A {Qualitative} {Examination} of {Harbour} {Development} {Projects} as a {Way} of {Adapting} to {Climate} {Change}},
	isbn = {978-3-031-85359-3},
	url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-85359-3_15},
	abstract = {The Cook Islands in the South Pacific Ocean is a country subject to frequent and severe weather events. Harbours in the Cook Islands are considered a way of securing food, fuel, other supplies, and services. The two main harbours in Rarotonga and Mangaia underwent upgrades to climate-proof and modernise the harbours to fit current times and market demands. The chapter presents a qualitative examination of the projects to understand the effects they’ve had on the local community. The study compares outcomes in the hope that its findings would assist in planning infrastructure projects with better climate adaptive capacity. The data was collected through 27 interviews and two focus groups that involved key informant participants who planned the projects and harbor users, for a holistic approach. As a part of triangulation, transect walks and participatory mapping exercises complemented and confirmed the findings. Grounded Theory analysis of data collected led to five impact types that included effects on health and well-being, community, natural environment, culture and heritage, and economy. Data analysis further revealed that residents had not been aware that these projects were intended to limit climate change impacts. With little prior knowledge of project intentions, the residents felt that the projects have not been entirely successful in mitigating climate change impacts. Additionally, the upgrades have resulted in unanticipated disruptions to ways of generational living. It is anticipated that a more deliberate engagement of local communities and the use of local knowledge would make harbour projects more acceptable and beneficial to the resident population.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-04-30},
	booktitle = {Climate {Change}: {Conflict} and {Resilience} in the {Age} of {Anthropocene}},
	publisher = {Springer Nature Switzerland},
	author = {Rodrigo, Niransha and Mannakkara, Sandeeka and Newport, Christina and Mankelow, Cody},
	editor = {Pal, Subodh Chandra and Chatterjee, Uday and Saha, Asish and Ruidas, Dipankar},
	year = {2025},
	doi = {10.1007/978-3-031-85359-3_15},
	keywords = {Climate change adaptation, Community outcomes, Cook Islands Author, Harbours, Pacific island nations, Ports, Project outcomes},
	pages = {355--381},
}

The Cook Islands in the South Pacific Ocean is a country subject to frequent and severe weather events. Harbours in the Cook Islands are considered a way of securing food, fuel, other supplies, and services. The two main harbours in Rarotonga and Mangaia underwent upgrades to climate-proof and modernise the harbours to fit current times and market demands. The chapter presents a qualitative examination of the projects to understand the effects they’ve had on the local community. The study compares outcomes in the hope that its findings would assist in planning infrastructure projects with better climate adaptive capacity. The data was collected through 27 interviews and two focus groups that involved key informant participants who planned the projects and harbor users, for a holistic approach. As a part of triangulation, transect walks and participatory mapping exercises complemented and confirmed the findings. Grounded Theory analysis of data collected led to five impact types that included effects on health and well-being, community, natural environment, culture and heritage, and economy. Data analysis further revealed that residents had not been aware that these projects were intended to limit climate change impacts. With little prior knowledge of project intentions, the residents felt that the projects have not been entirely successful in mitigating climate change impacts. Additionally, the upgrades have resulted in unanticipated disruptions to ways of generational living. It is anticipated that a more deliberate engagement of local communities and the use of local knowledge would make harbour projects more acceptable and beneficial to the resident population.

@article{ataera-minster_common_2025,
	title = {Common mental disorders and psychological distress among {Pacific} adults living in {Aotearoa} {New} {Zealand}},
	volume = {138},
	issn = {1175-8716},
	doi = {10.26635/6965.6780},
	abstract = {To examine common mental disorders and psychological distress in Pacific adults and between Pacific ethnic groups.
Data were pooled from multiple New Zealand Health Survey waves from 2014/2015 to 2018/2019. Estimated period prevalence of common mental disorders (depression and/or anxiety) and psychological distress were calculated for Pacific adults aged 15 years and over, analysed by socio-demographic factors (age, sex and socio-economic deprivation), specific Pacific ethnic groups (Samoan, Tongan, Cook Islands and Other Pacific) and Realm country status. Log-binomial regression methods were used to calculate unadjusted and adjusted risk ratios (ARRs) for comparative analyses.
Doctor-diagnosed common mental disorders were more prevalent in Pacific women, adults aged 24-64 years and those living in the least deprived areas (compared with Pacific men, adults aged 15-24 years and those in the most deprived areas respectively). Psychological distress was more prevalent in Pacific females and Cook Islands Māori. Some within-Pacific mental health differences were evident, with higher rates of diagnosed common mental disorders in adults affiliated with Pacific Realm countries (Cook Islands Māori and Niueans) compared with those affiliated with non-Realm countries.
Higher rates of doctor-diagnosed common mental disorders in Pacific adults from the least deprived areas suggest either higher needs and/or better care access in these groups. Mental health varies among Pacific peoples, with Cook Islands Māori in particular experiencing poorer outcomes. Further research and interventions targeting specific Pacific subpopulations are warranted.},
	language = {eng},
	number = {1613},
	journal = {New Zealand medical journal},
	author = {Ataera-Minster, Joanna and Every-Palmer, Susanna and Cunningham, Ruth and Kokaua, Jesse},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Place: New Zealand},
	keywords = {Adolescent, Adult, Aged, Anxiety - epidemiology, Anxiety - ethnology, Depression - epidemiology, Depression - ethnology, Female, Health Surveys, Humans, Male, Mental Disorders - epidemiology, Mental Disorders - ethnology, Middle Aged, New Zealand - epidemiology, Prevalence, Psychological Distress, Socioeconomic Factors, Stress, Psychological - epidemiology, Stress, Psychological - ethnology, Young Adult},
	pages = {36--},
}

To examine common mental disorders and psychological distress in Pacific adults and between Pacific ethnic groups. Data were pooled from multiple New Zealand Health Survey waves from 2014/2015 to 2018/2019. Estimated period prevalence of common mental disorders (depression and/or anxiety) and psychological distress were calculated for Pacific adults aged 15 years and over, analysed by socio-demographic factors (age, sex and socio-economic deprivation), specific Pacific ethnic groups (Samoan, Tongan, Cook Islands and Other Pacific) and Realm country status. Log-binomial regression methods were used to calculate unadjusted and adjusted risk ratios (ARRs) for comparative analyses. Doctor-diagnosed common mental disorders were more prevalent in Pacific women, adults aged 24-64 years and those living in the least deprived areas (compared with Pacific men, adults aged 15-24 years and those in the most deprived areas respectively). Psychological distress was more prevalent in Pacific females and Cook Islands Māori. Some within-Pacific mental health differences were evident, with higher rates of diagnosed common mental disorders in adults affiliated with Pacific Realm countries (Cook Islands Māori and Niueans) compared with those affiliated with non-Realm countries. Higher rates of doctor-diagnosed common mental disorders in Pacific adults from the least deprived areas suggest either higher needs and/or better care access in these groups. Mental health varies among Pacific peoples, with Cook Islands Māori in particular experiencing poorer outcomes. Further research and interventions targeting specific Pacific subpopulations are warranted.

@article{oloughlin_consequences_2025,
	title = {Consequences of {COVID}-19 protection measures on children's respiratory health in {Aotearoa} {New} {Zealand}},
	volume = {138},
	issn = {1175-8716},
	number = {1610},
	journal = {The New Zealand Medical Journal (Online)},
	author = {O'Loughlin, Claire and Uia, Tali and Grant, Cameron and Smiler, Kirsten and Churchward, Marianna and Tu'akalau, Catherine and Lupena, Rochelle and Jeffreys, Mona},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Publisher: Pasifika Medical Association Group (PMAG)},
	pages = {74--92},
}

@article{becken_negotiating_2025,
	title = {Negotiating {Wellbeing} and {Tourism}: {A} {Reorientation} {Process} in the {Cook} {Islands}},
	volume = {17},
	issn = {2071-1050},
	shorttitle = {Negotiating {Wellbeing} and {Tourism}},
	doi = {10.3390/su17031123},
	abstract = {Tourism growth in the Cook Islands is broadly supported by residents, but evidence of social and environmental harm is mounting. This study examines the role that tourism plays in the dynamic processes of disorientation and reorientation related to tourism development in three islands: Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and Mitiaro. A total of 102 interviews were conducted at a critical juncture where Cook Islanders reflected on the pre-COVID-19 tourism boom and the subsequent shock of border closures. The findings highlight the undeniable economic dominance of tourism and opportunities for individual livelihoods. However, residents expressed that these must not come at the cost of other types of wellbeing, especially in tourism-heavy Rarotonga. A reorientation towards greater connectedness with culture, each other, and local environments was seen as essential. Cook Islanders expressed a need to take control of tourism in ways that are community-driven, balanced across economic/financial, physical, social, spiritual, and mental wellbeing, and in harmony with local carrying capacities.},
	language = {eng},
	number = {3},
	journal = {Sustainability},
	author = {Becken, Susanne and Tiraa, Sieni and Vada, Sera},
	year = {2025},
	note = {Place: Basel
Publisher: MDPI AG},
	keywords = {COVID-19, Community, Islands, Pandemics, Sustainable development, Tourism},
	pages = {1123--},
}

Tourism growth in the Cook Islands is broadly supported by residents, but evidence of social and environmental harm is mounting. This study examines the role that tourism plays in the dynamic processes of disorientation and reorientation related to tourism development in three islands: Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and Mitiaro. A total of 102 interviews were conducted at a critical juncture where Cook Islanders reflected on the pre-COVID-19 tourism boom and the subsequent shock of border closures. The findings highlight the undeniable economic dominance of tourism and opportunities for individual livelihoods. However, residents expressed that these must not come at the cost of other types of wellbeing, especially in tourism-heavy Rarotonga. A reorientation towards greater connectedness with culture, each other, and local environments was seen as essential. Cook Islanders expressed a need to take control of tourism in ways that are community-driven, balanced across economic/financial, physical, social, spiritual, and mental wellbeing, and in harmony with local carrying capacities.

@article{newport_anchored_2024,
	title = {Anchored in pacific protocols–climate change, mental health and wellbeing},
	volume = {16},
	issn = {1756-5529},
	number = {6},
	journal = {Climate and Development},
	author = {Newport, Christina and Tiatia-Siau, Jemaima and Aimiti Ma'ia'i, KDee and Underhill-Sem, Yvonne and Woodward, Alistair},
	year = {2024},
	note = {Publisher: Taylor \& Francis},
	keywords = {Cook Islands Author},
	pages = {540--550},
}

@article{kokaua-balfour_tivaevae_2024,
	title = {The {Tīvaevae} {Framework}: {Indigenising} the {Process} of {Novel} {Writing}},
	volume = {21},
	copyright = {© 2024 John Wiley \& Sons Ltd.},
	issn = {1741-4113},
	shorttitle = {The {Tīvaevae} {Framework}},
	url = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/lic3.70010},
	doi = {10.1111/lic3.70010},
	abstract = {While there is a large amount of literary research and prose produced about the Pacific, only a small amount of work considers Indigenous interpretation and production of literature within the region. This essay explores the potential of Indigenous concepts in literary analysis and creative writing practice from a Māori perspective, Māori being the name of the Indigenous people of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, located near the centre of the Pacific Ocean. By applying the Tīvaevae framework, a Cook Islands research method most often used to inform research in education, social sciences and quantitative research, creative writing becomes a collaborative process that mimics the crafting of tīvaevae quilts. The article also discusses how the archetype of the calabash breaker, based on the Tusitala Marsh poem, was engaged during this process. It concludes with a discussion on what it means to be a Māori writer in an academic environment that calls for ‘Pacific scholars’.},
	language = {en},
	number = {10-12},
	urldate = {2025-05-22},
	journal = {Literature Compass},
	author = {Kokaua-Balfour, Stacey},
	year = {2024},
	note = {\_eprint: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/lic3.70010},
	keywords = {culture, global circulation project, novel and novella, postcolonialism, prose},
	pages = {e70010},
}

While there is a large amount of literary research and prose produced about the Pacific, only a small amount of work considers Indigenous interpretation and production of literature within the region. This essay explores the potential of Indigenous concepts in literary analysis and creative writing practice from a Māori perspective, Māori being the name of the Indigenous people of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, located near the centre of the Pacific Ocean. By applying the Tīvaevae framework, a Cook Islands research method most often used to inform research in education, social sciences and quantitative research, creative writing becomes a collaborative process that mimics the crafting of tīvaevae quilts. The article also discusses how the archetype of the calabash breaker, based on the Tusitala Marsh poem, was engaged during this process. It concludes with a discussion on what it means to be a Māori writer in an academic environment that calls for ‘Pacific scholars’.

@incollection{ava_tivaevae_2024,
	title = {Tivaevae as a {Conceptual} {Model} for {Integrating} {Traditional} {Sports} and {Games} {Into} {Formal} {Education} in the {Pacific}: {The} {Case} of the {Cook} {Islands}},
	volume = {22},
	isbn = {978-1-83753-087-8},
	shorttitle = {Tivaevae as a {Conceptual} {Model} for {Integrating} {Traditional} {Sports} and {Games} {Into} {Formal} {Education} in the {Pacific}},
	url = {https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/s1476-285420240000022004/full/html},
	abstract = {This chapter establishes the case for the integration of traditional sports and games (TSGs) into formal education in the Pacific and uses the Cook Islands cultural art of tivaevae as a conceptual model for setting out how this integration can take place. This chapter explains some of the features of TSGs and suggests the educational and social benefits that can accrue from including these activities in formal education in Pacific Island countries. The discussion outlines some TSGs played in the Pacific outside the formal physical education (PE) curriculum, such as coconut climbing and husking, canoe paddling and stilt walking. Activities like these are shown to be a vital way of connecting Pacific Islanders with their cultural history, knowledge, values and a medium to affirm their cultural identity. The potential of TSGs in this respect has become especially important at a time when it can be challenging for many in the Pacific to access their cultural inheritance. The introduction of the tivaevae model into Cook Islands health and PE curriculum in 2004 is noted, followed by an exploration of the value of this model as a guiding framework for the integration of TSGs into formal education in the Pacific.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	booktitle = {Towards a {Pacific} {Island} {Sociology} of {Sport}},
	publisher = {Emerald Publishing Limited},
	author = {Ava, Aue Te},
	month = oct,
	year = {2024},
	doi = {10.1108/S1476-285420240000022004},
	note = {ISSN: 1476-2854},
	pages = {65--77},
}

This chapter establishes the case for the integration of traditional sports and games (TSGs) into formal education in the Pacific and uses the Cook Islands cultural art of tivaevae as a conceptual model for setting out how this integration can take place. This chapter explains some of the features of TSGs and suggests the educational and social benefits that can accrue from including these activities in formal education in Pacific Island countries. The discussion outlines some TSGs played in the Pacific outside the formal physical education (PE) curriculum, such as coconut climbing and husking, canoe paddling and stilt walking. Activities like these are shown to be a vital way of connecting Pacific Islanders with their cultural history, knowledge, values and a medium to affirm their cultural identity. The potential of TSGs in this respect has become especially important at a time when it can be challenging for many in the Pacific to access their cultural inheritance. The introduction of the tivaevae model into Cook Islands health and PE curriculum in 2004 is noted, followed by an exploration of the value of this model as a guiding framework for the integration of TSGs into formal education in the Pacific.

@article{mihaere_centring_2024,
	title = {Centring localised indigenous concepts of wellbeing in urban nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation: case-studies from {Aotearoa} {New} {Zealand} and the {Cook} {Islands}},
	volume = {12},
	issn = {2296-665X},
	shorttitle = {Centring localised indigenous concepts of wellbeing in urban nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation},
	url = {https://www.frontiersin.orghttps://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2024.1278235/full},
	doi = {10.3389/fenvs.2024.1278235},
	abstract = {Nature-based solutions (NbS) offer significant potential for climate change adaptation and resilience. NbS strengthen biodiversity and ecosystems, and premise approaches that centre human wellbeing. But understandings and models of wellbeing differ and continue to evolve. This paper reviews wellbeing models and thinking from Aotearoa New Zealand, with focus on Te Ao Māori (the Māori world and worldview) as well as other Indigenous models of wellbeing from wider Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Oceania. We highlight how holistic understandings of human-ecology-climate connections are fundamental for the wellbeing of Indigenous peoples of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Oceania and that they should underpin NbS approaches in the region. We profile case study experience from Aotearoa New Zealand and the Cook Islands emerging out of the Nature-based Urban design for Wellbeing and Adaptation in Oceania (NUWAO) research project, that aims to develop nature-based urban design solutions, rooted in Indigenous knowledges that support climate change adaptation and wellbeing. We show that there is great potential for nature-based urban adaptation agendas to be more effective if linked closely to Indigenous ecological knowledge and understandings of wellbeing.},
	language = {English},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	journal = {Frontiers in Environmental Science},
	author = {Mihaere, Shannon and Holman-Wharehoka, Māia-te-oho and Mataroa, Jovaan and Kiddle, Gabriel Luke and Pedersen Zari, Maibritt and Blaschke, Paul and Bloomfield, Sibyl},
	month = feb,
	year = {2024},
	note = {Publisher: Frontiers},
	keywords = {Aotearoa New Zealand, Cook Islands, Nature-based solutions, adaptation, indigenous people, wellbeing},
}

Nature-based solutions (NbS) offer significant potential for climate change adaptation and resilience. NbS strengthen biodiversity and ecosystems, and premise approaches that centre human wellbeing. But understandings and models of wellbeing differ and continue to evolve. This paper reviews wellbeing models and thinking from Aotearoa New Zealand, with focus on Te Ao Māori (the Māori world and worldview) as well as other Indigenous models of wellbeing from wider Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Oceania. We highlight how holistic understandings of human-ecology-climate connections are fundamental for the wellbeing of Indigenous peoples of Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Oceania and that they should underpin NbS approaches in the region. We profile case study experience from Aotearoa New Zealand and the Cook Islands emerging out of the Nature-based Urban design for Wellbeing and Adaptation in Oceania (NUWAO) research project, that aims to develop nature-based urban design solutions, rooted in Indigenous knowledges that support climate change adaptation and wellbeing. We show that there is great potential for nature-based urban adaptation agendas to be more effective if linked closely to Indigenous ecological knowledge and understandings of wellbeing.

@article{henry_te_2024,
	title = {Te vaerua kopu tangata ora. {Constructing} a theory of {Cook} {Islands} palliative care in {New} {Zealand}},
	copyright = {Fixed Embargo Date, Closed},
	url = {https://digitalnz.org/records/55857956},
	abstract = {From University of Otago: Background: Due to the rapidly aging population, the need for palliative care in NewZealand is expected to increase substantially. Access to palliative health is stated to be a basichuman right, this includes access to palliative health care without discrimination, access tobasic medication for symptom relief, and inclusion in palliative care policies. Yet, Pacificpeoples in New Zealand experience barriers in accessing and utilising palliative care servicesand experience barriers to accessing culturally appropriate care.Cook Islanders are part of the New Zealand realm, are New Zealand citizens and the vastmajority reside in New Zealand. A health system that is responsive to the needs of CookIslands people is essential for the wellbeing of Cook Islands families. Palliative care is statedto be the ethical responsibility of health systems. This is reflected in the New Zealandpalliative care strategy which outlines that all people in need of palliative care should receivetimely and culturally appropriate palliative care. However, little is known on the experiencesand understanding of palliative and end of life care for Pacific peoples in New Zealand andeven less on the experiences and needs of Cook Islanders.Research aim: This study aimed to explore the traditional and contemporary palliative careand end-of-life care practices of Cook Islanders in New Zealand from a Cook Islandsperspective. The overarching aim is to generate a theory that articulates Cook Islandspeople’s concepts and practice of palliative care in New Zealand and to develop a CookIslands specific model that can be used to guide palliative care services in New Zealand.Method: The research utilised constructivist grounded theory and the Tivaevae model toconstruct a theory of palliative care for Cook Islands people in New Zealand. Constructivismgrounded theory was utilised as a methodology to analyse data in order to construct theory,while the Tivaevae model was utilised to connect the research to Cook Islands paradigms thatreflect Cook Islands values. The underlying philosophical paradigm of pragmatism wasutilised, anchoring the research to the creation of knowledge which has practicalimplications.Findings: A total of 28 participants were interviewed, including family members (n =14)who had cared for a palliative family member, healthcare practitioners (n =11) and holders ofIItraditional or spiritual knowledge or ta’unga (n =3). The findings revealed three key conceptswhich informed the theory constructed. The key concepts were, palliative care is a spiritualjourney in which spirituality is omnipresent. The kopu tangata (family) were a vitalcomponent of palliative care and the family as a group experience their own life coursetransition during the palliative care journey. Family is inclusive of the ancestors, andancestral veneration plays a part in palliative care and the grieving stage of palliative care.The New Zealand location impacts on the palliative care journey through the transnationalidentity of Cook Islands people and the various adaptations Cook Islands people have appliedin New Zealand.Conclusion: A theory of palliative care potentially applicable for Cook Islanders living inNew Zealand was constructed. The model “te vaerua kopu tangata ora” (the spiritualwellness of the family) as a conceptual model was created from the theorisation of the results.The model symbolises the transition experienced by the palliative family member and theirwider family. The model aids in showing how the components of the theory work together toconceptualise an understanding of palliative care for Cook Islanders in New Zealand.Palliative care in this study was defined as a spiritual transition in which the family, inclusiveof the wider family and the ancestors, supports the palliative family member to transitionfrom the world of the living to another realm defined by the family. While the familytransition to new roles within the family structure. As such, the model is a family model. It ispivotal that families are enabled to provide care for their palliative family member byproviding family based care and acknowledging the life stage transition the family unitexperience during palliative, end of life care and beyond. Additionally, palliative care wasviewed through a long view of time, meaning the transition from death to grieving mayfollow a long trajectory. Supporting families to practise rituals and ceremonies to veneratetheir ancestors is important as these rituals aid the family to maintain balance during theirtransition and grief. Additionally, the research highlighted the gaps within the currentpalliative care research and the need for future research in the area.},
	language = {eng},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	author = {Henry, Amy},
	month = jun,
	year = {2024},
}

From University of Otago: Background: Due to the rapidly aging population, the need for palliative care in NewZealand is expected to increase substantially. Access to palliative health is stated to be a basichuman right, this includes access to palliative health care without discrimination, access tobasic medication for symptom relief, and inclusion in palliative care policies. Yet, Pacificpeoples in New Zealand experience barriers in accessing and utilising palliative care servicesand experience barriers to accessing culturally appropriate care.Cook Islanders are part of the New Zealand realm, are New Zealand citizens and the vastmajority reside in New Zealand. A health system that is responsive to the needs of CookIslands people is essential for the wellbeing of Cook Islands families. Palliative care is statedto be the ethical responsibility of health systems. This is reflected in the New Zealandpalliative care strategy which outlines that all people in need of palliative care should receivetimely and culturally appropriate palliative care. However, little is known on the experiencesand understanding of palliative and end of life care for Pacific peoples in New Zealand andeven less on the experiences and needs of Cook Islanders.Research aim: This study aimed to explore the traditional and contemporary palliative careand end-of-life care practices of Cook Islanders in New Zealand from a Cook Islandsperspective. The overarching aim is to generate a theory that articulates Cook Islandspeople’s concepts and practice of palliative care in New Zealand and to develop a CookIslands specific model that can be used to guide palliative care services in New Zealand.Method: The research utilised constructivist grounded theory and the Tivaevae model toconstruct a theory of palliative care for Cook Islands people in New Zealand. Constructivismgrounded theory was utilised as a methodology to analyse data in order to construct theory,while the Tivaevae model was utilised to connect the research to Cook Islands paradigms thatreflect Cook Islands values. The underlying philosophical paradigm of pragmatism wasutilised, anchoring the research to the creation of knowledge which has practicalimplications.Findings: A total of 28 participants were interviewed, including family members (n =14)who had cared for a palliative family member, healthcare practitioners (n =11) and holders ofIItraditional or spiritual knowledge or ta’unga (n =3). The findings revealed three key conceptswhich informed the theory constructed. The key concepts were, palliative care is a spiritualjourney in which spirituality is omnipresent. The kopu tangata (family) were a vitalcomponent of palliative care and the family as a group experience their own life coursetransition during the palliative care journey. Family is inclusive of the ancestors, andancestral veneration plays a part in palliative care and the grieving stage of palliative care.The New Zealand location impacts on the palliative care journey through the transnationalidentity of Cook Islands people and the various adaptations Cook Islands people have appliedin New Zealand.Conclusion: A theory of palliative care potentially applicable for Cook Islanders living inNew Zealand was constructed. The model “te vaerua kopu tangata ora” (the spiritualwellness of the family) as a conceptual model was created from the theorisation of the results.The model symbolises the transition experienced by the palliative family member and theirwider family. The model aids in showing how the components of the theory work together toconceptualise an understanding of palliative care for Cook Islanders in New Zealand.Palliative care in this study was defined as a spiritual transition in which the family, inclusiveof the wider family and the ancestors, supports the palliative family member to transitionfrom the world of the living to another realm defined by the family. While the familytransition to new roles within the family structure. As such, the model is a family model. It ispivotal that families are enabled to provide care for their palliative family member byproviding family based care and acknowledging the life stage transition the family unitexperience during palliative, end of life care and beyond. Additionally, palliative care wasviewed through a long view of time, meaning the transition from death to grieving mayfollow a long trajectory. Supporting families to practise rituals and ceremonies to veneratetheir ancestors is important as these rituals aid the family to maintain balance during theirtransition and grief. Additionally, the research highlighted the gaps within the currentpalliative care research and the need for future research in the area.

@inproceedings{james_development_2024,
	address = {Torino, Italia},
	title = {Development of {Community}-{Oriented} {Text}-to-{Speech} {Models} for {Māori} ‘{Avaiki} {Nui} ({Cook} {Islands} {Māori})},
	url = {https://aclanthology.org/2024.lrec-main.432/},
	abstract = {In this paper we describe the development of a text-to-speech system for Māori ‘Avaiki Nui (Cook Islands Māori). We provide details about the process of community-collaboration that was followed throughout the project, a continued engagement where we are trying to develop speech and language technology for the benefit of the community. During this process we gathered a group of recordings that we used to train a TTS system. When training we used two approaches, the HMM-system MaryTTS (Schröder et al., 2011) and the deep learning system FastSpeech2 (Ren et al., 2020). We performed two evaluation tasks on the models: First, we measured their quality by having the synthesized speech transcribed by ASR. The human produced ground truth had lower error rates (CER=4.3, WER=18), but the FastSpeech2 audio has lower error rates (CER=11.8 and WER=42.7) than the MaryTTS voice (CER=17.9 and WER=48.1). The second evaluation was a survey amongst speakers of the language so they could judge the voice`s quality. The ground truth was rated with the highest quality (MOS=4.6), but the FastSpeech2 voice had an overall quality of MOS=3.2, which was significantly higher than that of the MaryTTS synthesized recordings (MOS=2.0). We intend to use the FastSpeech2 model to create language learning tools for community members both on the Cook Islands and in the diaspora.},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2024 {Joint} {International} {Conference} on {Computational} {Linguistics}, {Language} {Resources} and {Evaluation} ({LREC}-{COLING} 2024)},
	publisher = {ELRA and ICCL},
	author = {James, Jesin and Coto-Solano, Rolando and Nicholas, Sally Akevai and Zhu, Joshua and Yu, Bovey and Babasaki, Fuki and Wang, Jenny Tyler and Derby, Nicholas},
	editor = {Calzolari, Nicoletta and Kan, Min-Yen and Hoste, Veronique and Lenci, Alessandro and Sakti, Sakriani and Xue, Nianwen},
	month = may,
	year = {2024},
	pages = {4820--4831},
}

In this paper we describe the development of a text-to-speech system for Māori ‘Avaiki Nui (Cook Islands Māori). We provide details about the process of community-collaboration that was followed throughout the project, a continued engagement where we are trying to develop speech and language technology for the benefit of the community. During this process we gathered a group of recordings that we used to train a TTS system. When training we used two approaches, the HMM-system MaryTTS (Schröder et al., 2011) and the deep learning system FastSpeech2 (Ren et al., 2020). We performed two evaluation tasks on the models: First, we measured their quality by having the synthesized speech transcribed by ASR. The human produced ground truth had lower error rates (CER=4.3, WER=18), but the FastSpeech2 audio has lower error rates (CER=11.8 and WER=42.7) than the MaryTTS voice (CER=17.9 and WER=48.1). The second evaluation was a survey amongst speakers of the language so they could judge the voice`s quality. The ground truth was rated with the highest quality (MOS=4.6), but the FastSpeech2 voice had an overall quality of MOS=3.2, which was significantly higher than that of the MaryTTS synthesized recordings (MOS=2.0). We intend to use the FastSpeech2 model to create language learning tools for community members both on the Cook Islands and in the diaspora.

@phdthesis{wichman_kia_2024,
	title = {Kia rauka {I} te tūranga memeitaki no te iti tangata ānuanua o te {Kuki} {Airani} = {Towards} attaining holistic wellbeing for the {Rainbow} community of the {Cook} {Islands} : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of {Master} in {International} {Development}, {Massey} {University}, {New} {Zealand}},
	shorttitle = {Kia rauka {I} te tūranga memeitaki no te iti tangata ānuanua o te {Kuki} {Airani} = {Towards} attaining holistic wellbeing for the {Rainbow} community of the {Cook} {Islands}},
	url = {https://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/70249},
	abstract = {Kia Orana and welcome to this scholarly exploration of Tūranga Memeitaki, or Wellbeing, within the Ānuanua, or Rainbow, Community of the Cook Islands, guided by the principles of Akapapa’anga (genealogies) and Kai Vānanga (elevated conversations). This thesis is a deliberate endeavor to shed light on the experiences of a unique and often marginalized community. It aims to address the question of what is Tūranga Memeitaki for the Ānuanua community? Grounded in the Akapapa'anga methodology, which delves into the intricate web of relationships and connections among individuals and groups, this research employs Māori genealogical analysis to unearth the nuanced dimensions of Tūranga Memeitaki within the Ānuanua community. By drawing upon family trees, oral traditions, historical records, and diverse information sources, this approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the community's wellbeing dynamics. To navigate the sensitive nature of discussions and the subject matter concerning the Ānuanua community, a novel method known as Kai Vānanga Vatavata has been developed. Inspired by other Pacific approaches, this method has been customized to accommodate the specific needs and concerns of marginalized communities, ensuring respectful and culturally appropriate data collection and interpretation. Throughout the enquiry, the Kai Vānanga Vatavata method has undergone continuous refinement to optimize its efficacy in capturing the diverse perspectives and experiences within the Ānuanua community. Given the distinct challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities worldwide, a nuanced understanding of Tūranga Memeitaki for the Ānuanua community holds significant implications for addressing these challenges effectively. The research methodology incorporated interviews, focus groups, and literature analysis to explore the multifaceted dimensions of wellbeing and its impact on holistic human experience. By engaging directly with members of the Ānuanua community, this study aims to amplify their voices, illuminate their narratives, and contribute to the development of tailored policy solutions and research recommendations aimed at enhancing their overall wellbeing. The principal outcomes derived from the Kai Vānanga Vatavata highlight the imperative of conducting research that is culturally relevant and led by Ānuanua for Ānuanua. It underscores the urgency of ceasing the compartmentalization or 'othering' of the Ānuanua community, recognizing resilience and beyond both within this community and more broadly, and transitioning from a focus on wellbeing to an emphasis on wholebeing.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	school = {Massey University},
	author = {Wichman, Valentino (Valery) Tefa'atau},
	year = {2024},
}

Kia Orana and welcome to this scholarly exploration of Tūranga Memeitaki, or Wellbeing, within the Ānuanua, or Rainbow, Community of the Cook Islands, guided by the principles of Akapapa’anga (genealogies) and Kai Vānanga (elevated conversations). This thesis is a deliberate endeavor to shed light on the experiences of a unique and often marginalized community. It aims to address the question of what is Tūranga Memeitaki for the Ānuanua community? Grounded in the Akapapa'anga methodology, which delves into the intricate web of relationships and connections among individuals and groups, this research employs Māori genealogical analysis to unearth the nuanced dimensions of Tūranga Memeitaki within the Ānuanua community. By drawing upon family trees, oral traditions, historical records, and diverse information sources, this approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the community's wellbeing dynamics. To navigate the sensitive nature of discussions and the subject matter concerning the Ānuanua community, a novel method known as Kai Vānanga Vatavata has been developed. Inspired by other Pacific approaches, this method has been customized to accommodate the specific needs and concerns of marginalized communities, ensuring respectful and culturally appropriate data collection and interpretation. Throughout the enquiry, the Kai Vānanga Vatavata method has undergone continuous refinement to optimize its efficacy in capturing the diverse perspectives and experiences within the Ānuanua community. Given the distinct challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities worldwide, a nuanced understanding of Tūranga Memeitaki for the Ānuanua community holds significant implications for addressing these challenges effectively. The research methodology incorporated interviews, focus groups, and literature analysis to explore the multifaceted dimensions of wellbeing and its impact on holistic human experience. By engaging directly with members of the Ānuanua community, this study aims to amplify their voices, illuminate their narratives, and contribute to the development of tailored policy solutions and research recommendations aimed at enhancing their overall wellbeing. The principal outcomes derived from the Kai Vānanga Vatavata highlight the imperative of conducting research that is culturally relevant and led by Ānuanua for Ānuanua. It underscores the urgency of ceasing the compartmentalization or 'othering' of the Ānuanua community, recognizing resilience and beyond both within this community and more broadly, and transitioning from a focus on wellbeing to an emphasis on wholebeing.

@phdthesis{tairea_kia_2024,
	type = {thesis},
	title = {Kia {Vai} {Rai} {Auraka} {Kia} {Taui}‘ia - {Let} it remain, {Let} it change: {Negotiations} of religion among {Cook} {Island} {Māori} in {New} {Zealand}},
	shorttitle = {Kia {Vai} {Rai} {Auraka} {Kia} {Taui}‘ia - {Let} it remain, {Let} it change},
	url = {https://openaccess.wgtn.ac.nz/articles/thesis/Kia_Vai_Rai_Auraka_Kia_Taui_ia_-_Let_it_remain_Let_it_change_Negotiations_of_religion_among_Cook_Island_M_ori_in_New_Zealand/27977520/1},
	abstract = {This thesis examines how Cook Island Māori in contemporary New Zealand negotiate religion. It does so through a qualitative study, based on in-depth conversations with ten Cook Island Māori. The conversations reveal a complex social and relational dynamic to the ways in which Cook Island Māori understand and navigate religion. I argue that the Cook Island Māori in this research negotiate religion in a socialised manner that seeks to make sense of Christianity’s relationship with Cook Island Māori culture. To understand the ways in which this socialised negotiation of religion occurs, I employ the Cook Island Māori relational methodology, ‘akapapa‘anga, and draw from recent scholarship examining the discursive construction of religion. Through this approach, I identified three ‘modes of sociality’ which I name ‘Religion Affirmed,’ ‘Religion Redescribed,’ and ‘Religion Unsettled.’ Each mode captures the different and distinct ways in which these Cook Island Māori are negotiating what religion signifies for them, trying to make sense of Christianity’s relationship to Cook Island Māori culture, and navigating broader social obligations towards family and their community. Sitting underneath these socialised negotiations of religion is the impact of colonisation on Cook Island Māori people and culture. The impact of colonisation is contested due to implications to personal, social, and historical agency. This thesis demonstrates that the meaning of ‘religion,’ what constitutes Cook Island Māori culture, and the importance of different social relationships, are contested. It also indicates the centrality of ‘akapapa‘anga in the negotiation of these differences, the ongoing significance of Christianity in shaping diverse understandings of religion for Cook Island Māori, and the fruitfulness of relational epistemologies for the social scientific study of Pacific religion today.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-05-05},
	school = {Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington},
	author = {Tairea, Arama},
	month = dec,
	year = {2024},
	doi = {10.26686/wgtn.27977520},
}

This thesis examines how Cook Island Māori in contemporary New Zealand negotiate religion. It does so through a qualitative study, based on in-depth conversations with ten Cook Island Māori. The conversations reveal a complex social and relational dynamic to the ways in which Cook Island Māori understand and navigate religion. I argue that the Cook Island Māori in this research negotiate religion in a socialised manner that seeks to make sense of Christianity’s relationship with Cook Island Māori culture. To understand the ways in which this socialised negotiation of religion occurs, I employ the Cook Island Māori relational methodology, ‘akapapa‘anga, and draw from recent scholarship examining the discursive construction of religion. Through this approach, I identified three ‘modes of sociality’ which I name ‘Religion Affirmed,’ ‘Religion Redescribed,’ and ‘Religion Unsettled.’ Each mode captures the different and distinct ways in which these Cook Island Māori are negotiating what religion signifies for them, trying to make sense of Christianity’s relationship to Cook Island Māori culture, and navigating broader social obligations towards family and their community. Sitting underneath these socialised negotiations of religion is the impact of colonisation on Cook Island Māori people and culture. The impact of colonisation is contested due to implications to personal, social, and historical agency. This thesis demonstrates that the meaning of ‘religion,’ what constitutes Cook Island Māori culture, and the importance of different social relationships, are contested. It also indicates the centrality of ‘akapapa‘anga in the negotiation of these differences, the ongoing significance of Christianity in shaping diverse understandings of religion for Cook Island Māori, and the fruitfulness of relational epistemologies for the social scientific study of Pacific religion today.

@article{shiu_pacific_2024,
	title = {Pacific human security: {Health}, wellbeing, and resilience},
	author = {Shiu, Roannie Ng and Newport, Christina and Underhill-Sem, Yvonne},
	year = {2024},
}

@article{lai_daily_2024,
	title = {Daily temperatures and child hospital admissions in {Aotearoa} {New} {Zealand}: case time series analysis},
	volume = {21},
	issn = {1660-4601},
	number = {9},
	journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
	author = {Lai, Hakkan and Lee, Jeong Eun and Harrington, Luke J and Ahuriri-Driscoll, Annabel and Newport, Christina and Bolton, Annette and Salter, Claire and Morton, Susan and Woodward, Alistair and Hales, Simon},
	year = {2024},
	note = {Publisher: MDPI},
	pages = {1236},
}

@article{burry_experience_2024,
	title = {The experience of abortion for {Cook} {Islands} women: exploring the socio-cultural dimensions of abortion safety},
	volume = {26},
	issn = {1369-1058},
	shorttitle = {The experience of abortion for {Cook} {Islands} women},
	url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13691058.2024.2305814},
	doi = {10.1080/13691058.2024.2305814},
	abstract = {Abortion is significantly restricted by law in most Pacific Island countries, impacting the rights, health and autonomy of people who experience pregnancy. We undertook qualitative research between February and August 2022 on Rarotonga, Cook Islands, where abortion is illegal under most circumstances. We conducted interviews with women who had accessed or tried to access abortion services; people who had supported women to access abortion services; health workers; and advocates to understand their experiences regarding abortion. We conducted focus groups to explore broader social perceptions and experiences of sexual and reproductive health and rights, including abortion. Participants described their abortion decisions and methods, and their negotiation of the personal context of their sexual behaviours, pregnancies, and abortions relative to their socio-cultural context and values. As defined by the World Health Organization, safe abortion relates to the methods and equipment used and the skills of the abortion provider. We argue for an expansion of this definition to consider inclusion of reference to individuals' 'abortion safety nets' as the sum of their access to financial, political, health care and socio-cultural resources. These safety nets are shaped by discourses related to abortion and socio-cultural support and values, impacting physical, emotional, psychological, social and spiritual health.},
	language = {eng},
	number = {9},
	urldate = {2025-03-26},
	journal = {Culture, health \& sexuality},
	author = {Burry, Kate and Beek, Kristen and Vallely, Lisa and Worth, Heather and Haire, Bridget},
	year = {2024},
	note = {Place: England
Publisher: Taylor \& Francis},
	keywords = {Abortion, Access, Autonomy, Cook Islands, Cultural differences, Cultural resources, Discourses, Health care, Health services, Illegal abortion, Islands, Mental health, Negotiation, Pacific islands, Pregnancy, Qualitative research, Reproductive health, Rights, Safety, Sexual behavior, Social perception, Sociocultural factors, Spiritual well being, Women, Womens health, abortion stigma, akama, safe abortion},
	pages = {1185--1200},
}

Abortion is significantly restricted by law in most Pacific Island countries, impacting the rights, health and autonomy of people who experience pregnancy. We undertook qualitative research between February and August 2022 on Rarotonga, Cook Islands, where abortion is illegal under most circumstances. We conducted interviews with women who had accessed or tried to access abortion services; people who had supported women to access abortion services; health workers; and advocates to understand their experiences regarding abortion. We conducted focus groups to explore broader social perceptions and experiences of sexual and reproductive health and rights, including abortion. Participants described their abortion decisions and methods, and their negotiation of the personal context of their sexual behaviours, pregnancies, and abortions relative to their socio-cultural context and values. As defined by the World Health Organization, safe abortion relates to the methods and equipment used and the skills of the abortion provider. We argue for an expansion of this definition to consider inclusion of reference to individuals' 'abortion safety nets' as the sum of their access to financial, political, health care and socio-cultural resources. These safety nets are shaped by discourses related to abortion and socio-cultural support and values, impacting physical, emotional, psychological, social and spiritual health.

@article{houghton_negotiating_2023,
	title = {Negotiating tivaevae and talanoa methodologies in education: {A} critical reflection},
	volume = {132},
	shorttitle = {Negotiating tivaevae and talanoa methodologies in education},
	url = {https://search.informit.org/doi/abs/10.3316/informit.101556972574632},
	doi = {10.3316/informit.101556972574632},
	abstract = {The diverse nature of Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand means that Pacific
         educators and researchers regularly negotiate multiple identities, voices and cultures
         in their work and research. Often researchers in this field emerge from an education
         or teaching background and wish to explore the questions they have formulated about
         their local or wider Pacific community with regards to education. This paper offers
         a reflection from a Cook Island Maori researcher who has negotiated the use of the
         talanoa and tivaevae methodologies as part of his participatory action research doctoral
         study. The researcher's experience indicates a dynamic synergy between the two methods,
         as they pertain to the Pacific educational research field in New Zealand. The reflection
         offered aims to help inform and support other researchers, Pacific and non-Pacific,
         in their negotiation of the diverse landscape that this field presents.},
	number = {1/2},
	urldate = {2025-05-22},
	journal = {Waka Kuaka: The Journal of the Polynesian Society},
	author = {Houghton, Joseph Bruce Tutonga},
	month = jun,
	year = {2023},
	note = {Publisher: Polynesian Society Inc.},
	keywords = {Indigenous peoples--Education, Landscapes, Negotiation, Research--Evaluation, Research--Methodology},
	pages = {147--164},
}

The diverse nature of Pacific communities in Aotearoa New Zealand means that Pacific educators and researchers regularly negotiate multiple identities, voices and cultures in their work and research. Often researchers in this field emerge from an education or teaching background and wish to explore the questions they have formulated about their local or wider Pacific community with regards to education. This paper offers a reflection from a Cook Island Maori researcher who has negotiated the use of the talanoa and tivaevae methodologies as part of his participatory action research doctoral study. The researcher's experience indicates a dynamic synergy between the two methods, as they pertain to the Pacific educational research field in New Zealand. The reflection offered aims to help inform and support other researchers, Pacific and non-Pacific, in their negotiation of the diverse landscape that this field presents.

@article{tiatia_climate_2023,
	title = {Climate change, mental health and wellbeing: privileging {Pacific} peoples’ perspectives–phase one},
	volume = {15},
	issn = {1756-5529},
	number = {8},
	journal = {Climate and Development},
	author = {Tiatia, Jemaima and Langridge, Fiona and Newport, Christina and Underhill-Sem, Yvonne and Woodward, Alistair},
	year = {2023},
	note = {Publisher: Taylor \& Francis},
	pages = {655--666},
}

@article{tupou_is_2023,
	title = {Is the concept of solastalgia meaningful to pacific communities experiencing mental health distress due to climate change? {An} initial exploration},
	volume = {20},
	issn = {1660-4601},
	number = {22},
	journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health},
	author = {Tupou, Trish and Tiatia-Siau, Jemaima and Newport, Christina and Langridge, Fiona and Tiatia, Suelaki},
	year = {2023},
	note = {Publisher: MDPI},
	pages = {7041},
}

@article{futter-puati_e_2023,
	title = {E {Vaine} {Toa}, {E} {Rangatira}: {Marjorie} {Tuainekore} {Crocombe} ({D}. {Litt}), 1930–2022},
	volume = {58},
	issn = {0022-3344},
	number = {2},
	journal = {The Journal of Pacific History},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debi},
	year = {2023},
	note = {Publisher: Taylor \& Francis},
	pages = {195--200},
}

@incollection{futter-puati_inangaro_2023,
	title = {Inangaro{\textbar} {Desire}: {The} ‘writing in’of māpū{\textbar} young {Cook} {Islanders}’ sexual and relationship desires into resources for sexuality and relationships education},
	booktitle = {Sex and {Gender} in the {Pacific}},
	publisher = {Routledge},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debi},
	year = {2023},
	pages = {40--52},
}

@incollection{puati_tivaevae_2021,
	edition = {R. E. Rinehart, J. Kidd, \& K. N. Barbour},
	title = {Tivaevae {Episto}-{Methodology}: {Use} of {Cultural} {Metaphor} in {Indigenous} {Communities}},
	url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359270307_Tivaevae_Episto-Methodology_Use_of_Cultural_Metaphor_in_Indigenous_Communities_In_R_E_Rinehart_J_Kidd_K_N_Barbour_Eds_Ethnographic_borders_and_boundaries_Permeability_plasticity_and_possibilities_pp_9},
	urldate = {2025-04-09},
	booktitle = {Ethnographic borders and boundaries: {Permeability}, plasticity, and possibilities},
	publisher = {Peter Lang},
	author = {Puati, D},
	editor = {Rinehart, R and Kidd, J and Barbour, K},
	year = {2021},
	pages = {91--118},
}

@article{ava_how_2020,
	title = {How the {Tivaevae} {Model} can be {Used} as an {Indigenous} {Methodology} in {Cook} {Islands} {Education} {Settings}},
	volume = {49},
	copyright = {Copyright (c) 2018 The Author(s)},
	issn = {2049-7784},
	url = {https://ajie.atsis.uq.edu.au/ajie/article/view/258},
	doi = {10.1017/jie.2018.9},
	abstract = {This paper explores an Indigenous research methodology, the tivaevae model, and its application within the Cook Islands education system. The article will argue that the cultural values embedded within its framework allow for the successful implementation of this Indigenous methodology. The model draws from tivaevae, or artistic quilting, and is both an applique process and a product of the Cook Islands. It is unique to the Cook Islands and plays an important part in the lives of Cook Islanders. The tivaevae model will be explained in detail, describing how patchwork creative pieces come together to create a story and can be used as a metaphor of the past, present and future integration of social, historical, spiritual, religious, economic and political representations of Cook Island culture. Further, the paper will then make links with the model to teaching and learning, by exploring secondary schools’ health and physical education policy and practices. Finally, the efficacy of the model in this context and its research implications will then be discussed.},
	language = {en},
	number = {1},
	urldate = {2025-04-09},
	journal = {The Australian Journal of Indigenous Education},
	author = {Ava, Aue Te and Page, Angela},
	month = aug,
	year = {2020},
	note = {Number: 1},
	keywords = {education},
	pages = {70--76},
}

This paper explores an Indigenous research methodology, the tivaevae model, and its application within the Cook Islands education system. The article will argue that the cultural values embedded within its framework allow for the successful implementation of this Indigenous methodology. The model draws from tivaevae, or artistic quilting, and is both an applique process and a product of the Cook Islands. It is unique to the Cook Islands and plays an important part in the lives of Cook Islanders. The tivaevae model will be explained in detail, describing how patchwork creative pieces come together to create a story and can be used as a metaphor of the past, present and future integration of social, historical, spiritual, religious, economic and political representations of Cook Island culture. Further, the paper will then make links with the model to teaching and learning, by exploring secondary schools’ health and physical education policy and practices. Finally, the efficacy of the model in this context and its research implications will then be discussed.

@article{wynne_who_2019,
	title = {Who {Holds} the {Power} for {Change}?},
	copyright = {Copyright (c) 2019 Junctures: The Journal for Thematic Dialogue},
	issn = {1179-8912},
	url = {https://www.junctures.org/index.php/junctures/article/view/361},
	doi = {10.34074/junc.20011},
	abstract = {Is the indigenisation of an organization possible if we have not first acknowledged the machinery that has ensured and sustained indigenous people, their thought, their ways and their world view, subjugated for another and considered less than if not of little or any value, and especially when we consider the realm of academia and education.Maybe before we consider the opportunity for Indigenisation, we first consider the question as to whether we can have meaningful engagement without first deconstructing the Masters house, but can we effectively do this with the same master’s tools that built it.  Meaning can those that hold power be the ones that determine how and where and with whom this power should then be shared. Should this sharing be initiated by the same system that created disparity or instead by those who were diminished because of it?Who has the power to inculcate indigenization into a dominant culture; the system and power that created the space between our worlds, or the people who have maintained their existence despite the historical and real power structures that continue to this day to strip self-determination from indigenous communities?},
	language = {en},
	number = {20},
	urldate = {2025-04-30},
	journal = {Junctures: The Journal for Thematic Dialogue},
	author = {Wynne, Thomas Tarurongo},
	month = nov,
	year = {2019},
	note = {Number: 20},
}

Is the indigenisation of an organization possible if we have not first acknowledged the machinery that has ensured and sustained indigenous people, their thought, their ways and their world view, subjugated for another and considered less than if not of little or any value, and especially when we consider the realm of academia and education.Maybe before we consider the opportunity for Indigenisation, we first consider the question as to whether we can have meaningful engagement without first deconstructing the Masters house, but can we effectively do this with the same master’s tools that built it.  Meaning can those that hold power be the ones that determine how and where and with whom this power should then be shared. Should this sharing be initiated by the same system that created disparity or instead by those who were diminished because of it?Who has the power to inculcate indigenization into a dominant culture; the system and power that created the space between our worlds, or the people who have maintained their existence despite the historical and real power structures that continue to this day to strip self-determination from indigenous communities?

@article{futter-puati_stitching_2019,
	title = {Stitching tivaevae: a {Cook} {Islands} research method},
	volume = {15},
	issn = {1177-1801},
	number = {2},
	journal = {AlterNative: An International Journal of Indigenous Peoples},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debi and Maua-Hodges, Teremoana},
	year = {2019},
	note = {Publisher: SAGE Publications Sage UK: London, England},
	pages = {140--149},
}

@article{futter-puati_apiianga_2017,
	title = {Api’ianga tupuanga kopapa: {Sexuality} education in the {Cook} {Islands}.},
	author = {Futter-Puati, D},
	year = {2017},
	keywords = {Cook Islands Author},
}

@article{futter-puati_promoting_2014,
	title = {Promoting health and wellbeing through relationship education},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debi and Gillespie, Lorna and Tasker, Gillian},
	year = {2014},
}

@article{futter-puati_partnerships_2014,
	title = {Partnerships for health: {Decimating} tuberculosis in the {Cook} {Islands}, 1920–1975},
	volume = {25},
	issn = {1353-8292},
	shorttitle = {Partnerships for health},
	url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1353829213001391},
	doi = {10.1016/j.healthplace.2013.10.006},
	abstract = {How did the Cook Islands manage to achieve a significant reduction in tuberculosis from a high rate in the early 20th century to low rates by 1975? With the mid-century invention of effective drug therapy there was a widespread belief around the Western world that TB could be eradicated. The Cook Islands was one place which almost reached this goal. Based on primary and secondary historical and anthropological research, we argue that the geo-political emplacement of the Cook Islands and development of multi-scale partnerships were crucial to success. Our research indicates the value of understanding and engaging with local community networks and culturally appropriate partnerships in dealing with health issues.},
	urldate = {2025-04-09},
	journal = {Health \& Place},
	author = {Futter-Puati, Debbie and Bryder, Linda and Park, Julie and Littleton, Judith and Herda, Phyllis},
	month = jan,
	year = {2014},
	keywords = {Health promotion, History, Pacific–Cook Islands, Partnership, Tuberculosis},
	pages = {10--18},
}

How did the Cook Islands manage to achieve a significant reduction in tuberculosis from a high rate in the early 20th century to low rates by 1975? With the mid-century invention of effective drug therapy there was a widespread belief around the Western world that TB could be eradicated. The Cook Islands was one place which almost reached this goal. Based on primary and secondary historical and anthropological research, we argue that the geo-political emplacement of the Cook Islands and development of multi-scale partnerships were crucial to success. Our research indicates the value of understanding and engaging with local community networks and culturally appropriate partnerships in dealing with health issues.

@incollection{futter_cook_2009,
	address = {New York, NY},
	title = {Cook {Islands}},
	isbn = {978-0-387-92269-0},
	url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-92269-0_29},
	abstract = {The Cook Islands is made up of 15 islands and atolls lying in the South Pacific Ocean, south of Hawaii and west of Tahiti. Spread across a zone of nearly 2 million km2, they comprise a total land area of only 240 km2. The Cook Islands is a self-governing nation with a population of approximately 15,000 people. Tourism is the major income source for the Cook Islands, with no major export or other income potential.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-04-08},
	booktitle = {Case {Studies} in {Global} {School} {Health} {Promotion}: {From} {Research} to {Practice}},
	publisher = {Springer},
	author = {Futter, Debi},
	editor = {Aldinger, Carmen E. and Vince Whitman, Cheryl},
	year = {2009},
	doi = {10.1007/978-0-387-92269-0_29},
	keywords = {Cook Island, Curriculum Document, Physical Activity, Physical Education Lesson, South Pacific Ocean},
	pages = {387--393},
}

The Cook Islands is made up of 15 islands and atolls lying in the South Pacific Ocean, south of Hawaii and west of Tahiti. Spread across a zone of nearly 2 million km2, they comprise a total land area of only 240 km2. The Cook Islands is a self-governing nation with a population of approximately 15,000 people. Tourism is the major income source for the Cook Islands, with no major export or other income potential.

@misc{noauthor_birth_nodate,
	title = {Birth {Weight} and {Adolescent} {Health} {Indicators} in {Rarotonga}, {Cook} {Islands} - {Siobhan} {Tu}’akoi, {Jacquie} {L}. {Bay}, {Yin} {Yin} {May} {Aung}, {Neti} {Tamarua}-{Herman}, {Celeste} {Barrett}-{Watson}, {Karen} {Tairea}, {Mark} {H}. {Vickers}, 2022},
	url = {https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/10105395211046763},
	urldate = {2025-05-06},
}

@misc{noauthor_title_nodate,
	title = {Title: {Ora}'anga {Meitaki} no te {Vainetini}: {Cook} {Islands} {Women}'s {Wellbeing} in the {Context} of {Abortion}},
	shorttitle = {Title},
	url = {https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375693576_Title_Ora'anga_Meitaki_no_te_Vainetini_Cook_Islands_Women's_Wellbeing_in_the_Context_of_Abortion},
	abstract = {Access 135+ million publications and connect with 20+ million researchers. Join for free and gain visibility by uploading your research.},
	language = {en},
	urldate = {2025-05-06},
	journal = {ResearchGate},
}

Access 135+ million publications and connect with 20+ million researchers. Join for free and gain visibility by uploading your research.