Abstract:
The focus of my thesis is on taonga from Tainui, and some issues of repatriation and ownership. The particular taonga that I am researching are 'Korotangi', 'Te Winika' and the two mere pounamu, which became known later as the 'Tainui Mere'.
The importance of this issue for me is based around the cultural heritage and historical values of taonga Maori to iwi, hapu and whanau. Interviews with other people affirm this view, and they form the substance of this study.