Flight of the Kuaka: Mapping the Physical Health Care, Legal System and Social Care Network for Māori With Mental Health and Substance Use Conditions in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Mixed-Methods Meta-Synthesis Using Actor-Network Theory
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study developed a schema to illustrate the physical health care experiences of Māori (Indigenous Peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand) with mental health and substance use conditions and their whaanau (family, support network). This research conducts a mixed-methods meta-synthesis of nine studies: seven qualitative and two quantitative. Employing Kaupapa Māori Methodologies and Actor-Network Theory, it centres Māori knowledge to critique settler-colonial power structures of the health system in Aotearoa New Zealand. From the analysis, a network graph mapped the key actors and relationships in these health care experiences. Findings identified 28 actors and 392 relationships, revealing the complex, cumulative ruptures Māori face in accessing quality care. The study highlights headwinds across health, legal and social systems, emphasising the need for targeted service improvements. By applying Actor-Network Theory, this research identifies priority actors and relationships for future interventions and advocates for culturally responsive models that address structural inequities in health care access for Māori.
Institution: University of Otago
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,650
OpenAlex ID: W7131630120