The Manipulation of Maori Voice: A Kaupapa Maori Analysis of the Picot Policy Process

Abstract

This thesis applies Hirschman's concept of 'voice' and Freire's ideas about 'manipulation' to argue that Maori voice is manipulated within the New Zealand bureaucratic context and, furthermore, that Maori voice was manipulated throughout the Picot policy process. Fundamentally informed by the change theory of Kaupapa Maori developed by Smith, the thesis reviews the colonisation of Aotearoa, arguing that the various colonisation processes, including the legal, political and educational systems, created the contemporary bureaucratic context of unequal power relations in which Maori voice is constantly vulnerable to manipulation. The thesis further seeks to critically analyse the fourth Labour government's term in power and argues that, despite Labour's professed commitment to addressing Maori grievances and to ensuring policy-making through extensive consultation, the response of this government to Maori voice throughout the Picot policy process was comparable to the way in which the Pakeha state has always responded to Maori interests. The Curriculum Review and the Royal Commission on Social Policy are considered as examples of Labour's initial response to Maori voice. The political ascendancy of the New Right in New Zealand is also considered. The Maori submissions to the Picot Taskforce and the Maori response to David Lange's "write me" invitation are examined to ascertain exactly what Maori people's stated needs and aspirations were during this time. The analysis of the government's response to Maori voice in this instance reveals examples of Maori voice being re-interpreted, undermined and effectively negated, ie. manipulated. Finally, this thesis discusses two options for change – Constitutional Reform and the Protection of Personal and Group Rights - that Smith has identified as urgent projects for policy developers.