Lincoln University Digital Dissertation - Lincoln University Research ...

6.3 Recommendations for future research
The research was based on a case study, limiting its ability to be applied to
broader aspects of Maori society. However, these findings may serve as
useful indicators for opportunities and challenges that may arise in other
examples. The following are recommendations of topics which warrant future
research:
1. This research found that taewa production contributes to Maori
development largely because of intangible outcomes (rather than
economic), and therefore it would be of interest to see if this was
reflected in other Maori enterprise. These findings would suggest that
other traditional horticultural pursuits (e.g. production of kamokamo,
kaanga, kumara etc) and enterprises (e.g. crafts, carving, art) could
contribute towards appreciations of well-being even if the economic
viability is marginal.
2. Although economic outcomes have not been emphasised in this
research, there is room for further research investigating the economic
potential of taewa, and how this can enhance Maori development in a
sustainable way. Growers in this research have described taewa as a
niche crop, which alludes to unique marketing opportunities. If taewa
production was more economic, would the contribution towards Maori
sustainable development be any different?
3. Growers have alluded to the contributions taewa (production) can offer
with respect to health and nutrition. Nutrition and the associated
physical requirements of cultivation have been described as beneficial
contributing factors towards the health of growers. Therefore, research
into these associations would be of interest because these factors have
been described as important considerations by growers in this
research, contributing towards sustainable development.
70