Acknowledgements
Titiro whakamuri; kōkiri whakamua
Learn from thoughtful reflections; move forward with confidence
Initiatives in research, policy and practice can be located in their uniquely applicable time and place. In other words, there is a context –if not an explanation – for the origins and justifications of activities that have been identified as new, different and innovative. A convergence of knowledge and skills have been transmitted across generations of theorists, analysts, and practitioners. This monograph is a step toward the completion of narratives that serve as evidence of what success looks like and feels like when streams of knowledge effectively converge.
The editors of this publication acknowledge a range of people and entities supportive of this kaupapa – He Awa Whiria (A Braided River). We affirm that every initiative starts with an idea – in this instance, to celebrate an inclusive approach to understanding the diversity of streams of knowledge. However, great ideas require the support of others’ thinking and actions to materialise, to make sense, and to make a difference so as to unleash potential for individuals and communities. That being stated, the editors owe many debts of gratitude. It is to that discourse we now turn.
In order to progress the vision of creating a publication built around this kaupapa, funds from an earlier initiative carried out by a small group of researchers at the University of Canterbury (UC) for a National Science Challenge – Building Better Homes, Towns and Cities – were used. Our initial thanks, therefore, go to Ruth Berry and Rihi Tenana for instilling a belief in this vision from the outset.
Our sincere gratitude also goes to a range of people and entities within UC. To the UC Library for the funding that was provided with the help of a colleague, Matiu Ratima. To Catherine Montgomery and Katrina McCallum at Canterbury University Press, who have once again been instrumental in their professionalism, positivity and generous advice and guidance. To our copy editor, Lisette du Plessis, thank you for your expertise, sharpness of mind and attention to detail. Your input has helped to make this publication accessible to a wide range of readers. We also thank the Child Well-being Research Institute (CWRI) for their enduring commitment to the He Awa Whiria phenomenon and all that it continues to offer. Gail Gillon, the director of the CWRI, has been a staunch advocate over several years, and Lisa Mills (administrator) has had oversight of the administration arm over the tenure of this production phase.
Finally, to the chapter authors: your innovative and boundary-challenging thinking will enable a radical reset of how the current norms, cultures, rules and practices are able to shape understandings – from research to application. You have extended a rethinking about research, science and innovation by:
• developing transformational approaches that demonstrate courage and conviction;
• considering transdisciplinary approaches within the arts, humanities and science;
• widening the scope to explicitly state that mātauranga Māori has an integrity of its own; and
• focusing on culturally responsive strategies and structures that are implementable and accessible.
The potential outcomes from your respective chapters will ultimately lead to a shift towards embedding authentic biculturalism and a Treaty-based flourishing of two streams of knowledge – from the conceptual design phase to the conclusion of research, policy and practice realities.
E mihi kau ana ki a koutou
Sincere thanks to all
Angus Macfarlane, Melissa Derby and Sonja Macfarlane
