From past failures to effective engagement: bridging the gap between engineering and cultural infrastructure

Marae are traditional meeting grounds and a vital component of cultural infrastructure for Māori, the Indigenous peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand. The precarious exposure of marae to natural hazards and climate change poses a significant threat to the cultural identity and wellbeing of Māori communities. In recent hazard events, marae have repeatedly played a central role in providing safety and shelter for the community at short notice. This research explores the resilience of marae to natural hazards and examines the role of marae in emergency preparedness and community response. Adhering to the tenets of kaupapa Māori theory, the research employs a mixed-methods approach with GIS-based hazard maps and semi-structured interviews to assess marae hazard exposure and inform marae-based decision-making. Key outcomes include the development of marae-specific hazard maps contributing to emergency preparedness plans for 26 marae in the study region in collaboration with Te Arawa Lakes Trust, a local tribal post-settlement governance entity. A significant finding is the crucial role of Māori engineers whose understanding of Māori values and protocols bridges the gap between technical solutions and cultural needs. This research presents a novel approach for engineers and practitioners to work collaboratively with Māori. This work highlights the importance of flexibility and patience, recognising the voluntary nature of marae roles.