Ngā Kōrero Parekura – Iwi Māori Experiences Across the 4 R’s
Tracks
Gold Coast Ballroom
| Tuesday, July 28, 2026 |
| 1:25 PM - 1:45 PM |
| Gold Coast Room |
Overview
Loraine Eade, Tokomaru Research Centre
Details
Three Key Learnings
1. Respect and acknowledgement of partnering with iwi, and the value added they bring to emergency management.
2. Sharing the 'super powers' of iwi in response.
3. The next cabs off the rank in terms of strengthening iwi Māori responses.
Speaker
Dr Lorraine Eade
Pou Rangahau Mātua
Tokomaru Research Centre
Nga Kōrero Parekura - Iwi Māori experiences across the 4 R's
Abstract
This research explored Māori emergency management experiences in Te Tauihu o Te Waka ā-Māui, drawing on qualitative insights from iwi (tribes), hapū (sub-tribes), marae (communal and sacred meeting grounds), and emergency management professionals. Using a Kaupapa Māori (Māori-centred) methodology and thematic analysis of 30 interviews, the study examines the Four Rs: Reduction, Readiness, Response, and Recovery, within the context of historical and contemporary civil defence declarations. Findings reveal that while Māori have long practised risk reduction and resilience through tikanga (customs and protocols) and environmental stewardship, formal inclusion in emergency management structures only began in 2016. Since then, iwi have become increasingly visible in Emergency Operations Centres, contributing cultural leadership, community reach, and operational capability. Tikanga Māori, including karakia (prayers or incantations) and manaakitanga (hospitality and kindness), are now embedded in response protocols, enhancing cohesion and calm during crises.
Biography
Dr Lorraine Eade sits as an iwi representative on the Marlborough Co-ordination Executive Group. She has spent the last 14 years involved in emergency management systems from an Iwi Māori lens at both strategy, policy, governance and operational levels. She is a trained controller and holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management.
Her passion is emergency management and climate change, noting that whānau, hapu and Iwi have been across the 4 R's since their arrival in Aotearoa.
