Ngā Ohaoha a Te Matatini Measuring the Kapa Haka Economy

Abstract

While this thesis largely examines the economic contribution of Kapa Haka, it also sets out a framework to inform future research to ensure that the inequalities of today will not be visited upon the mokopuna of tomorrow. Māori aspirations for a better future are inextricably linked to wellbeing and identity. This research builds on previous reports commissioned by Te Matatini Kapa Haka Aotearoa (Te Matatini) that provide qualitative research on the subject matter. It largely draws on new quantitative data and focusses on Te Matatini as a case study by investigating the nature and extent of funding disparities in its current funding compared with other national performing arts organisations. The research addresses two main research questions: whether funding currently allocated to Te Matatini under the Vote Arts, Culture and Heritage appropriation is equitable considering its biennial economic contribution and service performance record. Secondly, how can tikanga Māori inform a framework able to measure the broader wellbeing impacts of Kapa Haka and the social return on investment achieved by Te Matatini’s programme of regional and national Kapa Haka events. To assess whether government is realising the best value for money from its investment into the arts, culture and heritage sector, the thesis calls for greater transparency and consistency in the level of funding currently received by Māori agencies and initiatives across the sector. It concludes with a recommendation that the Executive Government should seek to undertake a review of the sector ecosystem to develop fit-for-purpose and targeted policy settings that ‘insure’ Māori arts are better valued and supported. The research argues that a central element of any future national arts strategy should provide for greater equity for Māori across the sector along with pathways to grow Māori arts, culture and heritage as a central pillar of Māori development and national wellbeing. Its key recommendation is that the Government should seek to increase its investment into Māori arts agencies and practitioners by establishing a new appropriation focused on growing the Māori cultural and creative sector.