Being Maori in the City

This insightful exploration delves into contemporary Māori identity within urban Auckland, as seen in Being Māori in the City by Natacha Gagné.

Grounded in an ethnography of everyday life in Auckland, Being Māori in the City explores the contemporary significance of Māori identity. As indigenous peoples globally strive for decolonization and self-determination, the Māori of Aotearoa-New Zealand are navigating their identity within urban settings. With nearly 85% of the Māori population residing in cities, these environments have become crucial for the affirmation of their cultural identity and the ongoing struggle for recognition and rights.

This work represents one of the first ethnographic studies of Māori urbanization since the 1970s, based on nearly two years of immersive fieldwork and over 250 hours of interviews with Māori families. Unlike previous studies that focused on indigenous elites, Being Māori in the City highlights the experiences of everyday individuals and families. Natacha Gagné skillfully illustrates how traditional Māori ways of life are not only preserved but also adapted and strengthened amidst the complexities of urban living.

Natacha Gagné's meticulous research offers a vital resource for understanding the dynamics of Māori urban life, contributing significantly to both Māori studies and urban anthropology. This book serves as a foundation for future scholarship, providing insights into the diverse identity dynamics among urban-based Māori. Through the lens of 'universes of meaning,' Gagné effectively contextualizes the varied experiences of the Māori community in the city, making this work relevant across multiple academic disciplines.