Lay summary
Dr Renall is a dietitian interested in improving nutrition-related health inequities for Māori. This research aims to use narrative-based inquiry to develop new food-based approaches for advancing oranga (a holistic concept of wellbeing encompassing physical, spiritual, mental, environmental, and social wellbeing) based on traditional and contemporary mātauranga (knowledge) relating to kai (food). Supported by a Māori research advisory group, this kaupapa Māori research has five phases: establish relationships with Māori communities; document the mātauranga contained in historical archival materials and academic writings relating to traditional foods and oranga; conduct interviews with whānau, hapū, and Iwi members about their knowledge and experiences of mātauranga relating to kai; evaluate the wellbeing impact of a whānau-led pilot project using mātauranga and tikanga-led practices to grow traditional kai on their whenua; develop a nutrition-related health promotion framework to support oranga for Māori in contemporary times based on traditional mātauranga and values around kai.