Our research

Te Kākano Research Network comprises five inter-related research themes that together represent a comprehensive approach to physical activity and sport research. Te Kākano Research Network has considered outcomes from consultation with investigators, partners and stakeholders, current government policy and goals, international policy and strategy, current gaps in evidence and uptake of knowledge, and existing platforms of research excellence.

Research priorities

These priorities were developed through the engagement process and represent gaps in evidence and uptake of knowledge and align with key government goals.

• Reversing the downward trend of physical activity and improving wellbeing amongst the children and youth of New Zealand
• Creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible opportunities for physical activity and sport that enhance mana, connectedness and health
• Prioritising mātauranga and Te Tiriti centred research approach

If any of this kaupapa has inspired you, and if you have a programme of research that aligns with our research kaupapa, join us.

Engagement philosophy

Guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi* (the Treaty of Waitangi), the priorities and research direction were co-designed through extensive engagement with over 50 members of sector, community organisations, and Māori community health promotion agencies. The foundation of Te Kākano Research Network has been shaped by four overriding goals that emerged from the engagement with stakeholders.

_{*Te Tiriti o Waitangi and The Treaty of Waitangi are from two perspectives. To fullfil our goals, we refer to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.}

1. Foster a paradigm shift

   There is a need to change our focus from a individualistic conception to one that connects people to what matters most for them. By changing the focus from ‘increasing participation in physical activity and sport’ to ‘enhancing mana, connectedness and health through physical activity and sport’, we shift the paradigm to the broader and higher-level potential of physical activity and sport for society.

2. Honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi

   The principles that govern our research decisions, ethics and behaviour are the articles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. To cultivate a positive Treaty relationship, there is a need to create a methodological space ‘Te wahi hononga’ (the shared ‘Third Space’) where Mātauranga (Māori knowledge) and other world views (Pacific, Western and other cultural epistemologies) stand side by side.

3. Focus on collaboration and knowledge translation

   There is a need for integration of multidisciplinary, cross-sectoral and multi-method research epistemologies, so that, knowledge that is derived and held in one context can be shared to advance knowledge in other settings. Te Kākano Research Network acknowledges the diverse knowledge that is held by iwi, hapū, marae, community, and organisations generates innovative research ideas and provides new opportunities to translate learning across contexts. To advance the mission of Te Kākano, we bring together diverse fields of research to collaborate and deliver results that benefit the communities.

4. Focus on the next generation

   We focus on the development of next-generation researchers, early career academics, and Māori and Pasifika researchers. We also focus on research relating to rangatahi (the younger generation).