Tech's Role in Keeping Māori Communities Together During Tough Times

In New Zealand, Māori communities faced big challenges during COVID-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle. These events made it hard for people to stay connected. Loneliness and mental health issues became more common. But digital tech stepped in to help. Digital tools did more than just keep people talking. They helped with learning, work, and even keeping the economy going. This was super important for the well-being of the whole country. But how did these tools really help Māori communities? The Māori way of doing things, called Kaupapa Māori, was key. It focuses on community, culture, and being fair. This approach helped make sure digital tech was used in a way that respected these values. It wasn't just about the tech itself. It was about how it was used to bring people together. During COVID-19, digital tech helped people stay in touch when they had to stay apart. It also helped with learning and work. But it wasn't always easy. Some people struggled to use the tech or didn't have access to it. This showed that while digital tech can be a big help, it's not a perfect solution. Cyclone Gabrielle brought more challenges. It caused damage and made it hard for people to stay connected. But digital tech helped people share information and stay in touch. It also helped with recovery efforts. This showed that digital tech can be a lifeline during tough times. But it's important to think critically about how digital tech is used. It should be a tool that helps bring people together, not push them apart. It should respect and support the values of the community. This is where the Kaupapa Māori approach comes in. It helps make sure digital tech is used in a way that is fair, respectful, and helpful. In the end, digital tech played a big role in helping Māori communities during tough times. But it's not a magic solution. It's a tool that should be used carefully and thoughtfully. And it should always respect and support the values of the community.