Te Tomokanga a Place of Preparation

Te Tomokanga as a framework supports the development of reflective practice prior to engagement. Pre-engagement preparation invites participants to normalise themselves in an aspect of te ao Māori and prompts ‘pre-reflection’ on individual and collective practice. Te Tomokanga framework supported me in my journey towards registration as an educational psychologist through understanding the preparatory work required and undertaken as ‘manuhiri’ (a visitor) to support genuine engagement and relationships with the ‘haukāinga’ (home people). As a theoretical framework, Te Tomokanga is supported by shared tikanga practice, values and mātauranga provided by te ao Māori. Initially used as a pre-engagement tool, Te Tomokanga can also be used as a framework for the preparation of any hui, research, planning or practice and supervision.