The proposed programme of research coheres around the broad theme of ‘Urban Intergenerational Kāinga Innovations’ (UIKI) in Tāmaki Makaurau. In Auckland there is a dire need for innovative solutions to deliver safe, secure and affordable housing through socially cohesive processes that support the development of stronger and resilient Māori communities. The UIKI programme is grounded on the traditional concept of kāinga (also called papakāinga or pā kāinga) where the marae is at the centre. Foundational to our approach (exemplified in our Tranche 1 ‘Te Manaaki o te Marae’ project) is the idea that kaupapa Māori based innovations (marae and kāinga), remain applicable to contemporary community development. The concept of kāinga extends beyond the house or individual home to the surrounding neighbourhood. Healthy urban neighbourhood / community environments are conducive to whānau and hapū flourishing. UIKI asserts the importance that marae, kāinga and Māori communities play within the Māori housing discourse in Aotearoa.
