A New Maori Migration: Rural and Urban Relations in Northern New Zealand

Dr. Metge's book is a comparative study of two Maori communities, one in a traditional rural area and the other in Auckland, New Zealand's largest industrial center, discussing housing, domestic organization, marriage patterns, kinship structure, voluntary associations, and leadership. It makes a valuable practical contribution to Maori social studies and has implications for the urbanization of cultural minorities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Maori people, until 1939, predominantly resided in rural communities, but a significant shift occurred during and after the Second World War. Many Maori individuals embarked on migrations to urban areas in search of employment opportunities, leading to the establishment of urban groups within the Maori community. This transformative development has had a profound impact on relationships between Maori and Europeans, as well as within the Maori people themselves.

The significance of Dr. Metge's book lies in its comprehensive comparative analysis of two Maori communities. One community is situated in a traditional rural area, while the other is located in Auckland, New Zealand's largest industrial center. The book delves into various aspects of these communities, including housing and domestic organization, marriage patterns, kinship structure, voluntary associations, and leadership. Through meticulous research and insightful conclusions, the author makes a valuable practical contribution to Maori social studies. Moreover, the book's findings have implications for the broader issue of urbanization faced by cultural minorities worldwide.

The rural Maori community, until 1939, was characterized by its traditional way of life and close-knit connections to the land. The majority of Maori lived in small villages or settlements, relying on agriculture and forestry for their livelihood. The community was deeply rooted in Maori culture, with strong traditions, customs, and language.

However, the Second World War brought about significant changes in the Maori community. With the demand for labor increasing in urban areas, many Maori individuals sought opportunities in cities. This migration led to the formation of urban groups of Maori, which were distinct from their rural counterparts.

In the urban setting, Maori faced new challenges and opportunities. They encountered a diverse range of people from different backgrounds, which challenged their traditional beliefs and practices. However, it also provided them with access to education, employment, and social services that were not available in rural areas.

The urban Maori community developed its own unique culture and identity. They formed cultural organizations, such as sports teams, dance troupes, and community centers, to preserve and celebrate their heritage. They also developed a sense of pride in their identity as Maori, which helped them to overcome the discrimination and marginalization they often faced in urban environments.

One of the key differences between the rural and urban Maori communities was their housing and domestic organization. In rural areas, Maori typically lived in extended family households, with several generations living under one roof. The household was the center of social and economic activity, and the extended family provided support and care for one another.

In contrast, urban Maori households were more diverse and fragmented. Many individuals lived alone or in small households, and the household was less central to social and economic activity. This was due to the increased demand for housing in urban areas, as well as the segregation and discrimination that Maori faced in urban areas.

Marriage patterns in the rural and urban Maori communities also differed. In rural areas, marriage was often arranged through family and community networks, with a focus on maintaining traditional values and customs. In contrast, urban Maori marriages were more likely to be influenced by Western cultural norms and values, with a greater emphasis on individual choice and compatibility.

Kinship structure in the rural and urban Maori communities was also influenced by the migration of individuals. In rural areas, kinship was based on a patrilineal system, with the father's line being the primary source of identity and authority. In urban areas, kinship was more complex and diverse, with a greater emphasis on matrilineal and bilateral systems, as well as the recognition of non-traditional forms of kinship, such as same-sex relationships.

Voluntary associations and leadership in both the rural and urban Maori communities were also affected by the migration of individuals. In rural areas, voluntary associations were often based on traditional cultural practices and beliefs, with a focus on community development and social welfare. In urban areas, voluntary associations were more diverse and inclusive, with a greater emphasis on social and economic empowerment and advocacy for Maori rights.

The urbanization of cultural minorities, including the Maori people, is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach. The study of Maori communities, both in rural and urban settings, is crucial in understanding the dynamics and complexities of this phenomenon. Dr. Metge's book provides valuable insights into the experiences of Maori in rural and urban settings, and its findings have implications for policymakers, educators, and researchers interested in promoting cultural diversity and social inclusion.

In conclusion, the urbanization of the Maori people has been a significant development that has had a profound impact on relationships between Maori and Europeans, as well as within the Maori people as a whole. The importance of Dr. Metge's book lies in its presentation of a carefully documented comparative study of two Maori communities, one in a traditional rural area and the other in Auckland, New Zealand's largest industrial center. Through its comprehensive analysis of housing and domestic organization, marriage patterns, kinship structure, voluntary associations, and leadership, the book makes a valuable practical contribution to Maori social studies. Moreover, its findings have implications for the broader the broader issue of urbanization faced by cultural minorities worldwide. By understanding the experiences of Maori in rural and urban settings, we can better appreciate the complexities and challenges of cultural diversity and social inclusion in our increasingly globalized world.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367716745