Maori in the news

Abstract

This research is an exploratory analysis of a news medium, ie. the newspaper. The newspaper industry is a structural influence that shapes the social reality of Maori people in New Zealand society. Questions were asked in relation to this: What trends or messages have been presented by newspapers in this country over a period of time in relation to Maori issues? What kind of images are the messages sending? How do these messages influence the social reality of Maori people? Wellington daily newspapers - The Dominion and The Evening Post, were selected and three forms of analysis were undertaken: Recording longitudinally Maori issues from 1975 to 1989; quantitatively analysing a selection of the presenting data; and qualitatively analysing language use in terms of style and metaphor. The most distinctive feature of Maori news content is that it was very small. Quantitative analyses showed that Maori news itself has been presented in a balanced way. Maori issues impacting into politics received the most attention. Cultural items received a very steady coverage, presenting a favourable image of Maori. Social issues tended to be event-related, and have wide-ranging implications - influencing other news. While the overall direction of Maori news was favourable, it was noticed that when unfavourable issues did come up, that they were the most influencial in constructing the news. Qualitative analyses of language revealed a style of news presentation that was dominated by Western thought patterns. Different styles of language were used by newsmakers to create trends. Metaphors of social reality were of a physical landscape. This reality was often depicted in terms of society being on a journey and being at war. This is a Western way of thinking. For Maori, land is also a common metaphor, but is tied to kinship relationships. Conclusion If we see the news as a force that shapes social reality, then Maori reality is being dictated by Western communication. Maori comment is included to the extent that the newsmakers understand Maori thought; and to the extent that Maori believe the newsmakers can be trusted with the sources of their thought and the concepts they live by. Hence progress is slow. And so I conclude: Would it not be a lot easier if Maori were given a share in the newsmaking process?