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<p>By Grace Irwin</p>

<p>I learned so much during this experience, not just how to narrow down my search entries and how to best write up a bibliography, but most importantly, I now have a deeper understanding of what research is out there on what is required to support safe and healthy homes for wh&#257;nau M&#257;ori to flourish.</p>

<p>I found that the need for creating spaces with M&#257;ori, by M&#257;ori for M&#257;ori is well documented in the literature. I looked into a large amount of research, and it was really interesting and encouraging to read about so much that is being done already in this space. This included inquiries, architectural papak&#257;inga designs, interviews, reports on M&#257;ori housing, investigations into M&#257;ori perceptions on what &lsquo;home&rsquo; means to M&#257;ori. I was able to identify barriers that are yet to be overcome in order to achieve safe and healthy homes for M&#257;ori to flourish.</p>

<p>I am extremely grateful to have been part of this project that aims to create real positive change for M&#257;ori. I am currently doing my Masters of Nursing Practice, and this summer studentship experience will help me going forward in the future as I set on a career in which I believe many opportunities in M&#257;ori health and wellbeing research will arise. Hauora M&#257;ori will always remain a particular interest of mine, and quality Kaupapa M&#257;ori research that looks into ways in which Aotearoa can reduce inequitable health disparities is something that I am passionate to be a part of.</p>

<p>I am extremely thankful to Whakauae for having had this opportunity to contribute to such research. I felt very supported and guided throughout the whole process of my contribution to this project.&nbsp; Ng&#257; mihi nui!</p>
