The Marae as an information ground
Maori are the indigenous peoples of New Zealand. This paper explores the diversity of the information grounds that can be found at marae (meeting places) and the type of information that the individuals gather there exchange in a variety of situations ranging from the ritualistic ceremonies through to everyday tasks. The role of Maori values such as whanaungatanga (establishing relationships) and mana (status/respect) plays in the information exchanges is discussed as is the active learning and teaching role that ensures that the marae continues to operate effectively as a community that brings traditional and modern together for the common good.