Pacific Research and Policy Centre

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The 1960 Fiji sugar dispute : the cane growers versus the CSR Company : a thesis presented ... for the degree of Master of Arts in History
(Massey University, 1970) Charan, Prem K
Sugar is Fiji's chief export and accounts for over eighty per cent of its total export earnings. The set up of the Fijian sugar industry is perhaps unique in the world. The buying and processing of cane as well as the distribution of sugar up until 1962 were entirely in the hands of the Colonial Sugar Refining Company (usually referred to as the CSR or the Company) of Australia. The Company was also the owner or lessee of nearly half of the colony's total cane lands which were leased or sub-leased to over 5,200 small Indian tenant farmers. In its milling operations and transport network the CSR employed over 2,500 workers. Thus the CSR enjoyed a monopoly in the manufacture and distribution of sugar as well as holding an oligopoly as far as control of cane lands was concerned. From this strong position it could deal with the cane farmers successfully over matters such as cane payments to the farmers or conditions regarding harvesting and transporting of cane to its mills. If the cane growers failed to reach a favourable agreement with the CSR over the sale and purchase of cane they were faced with the unenviable position of having in hand a commercial crop with no buyers. The growers' position was aggravated by the fact that the cane crop deteriorated if it was not harvested in season and further it remained at the mercy of floods, hurricanes, droughts or even fires which were not uncommon occurences in the sugar districts. The livelihood of over 80 percent of the Indian farmers depended solely upon the income derived from the sales of sugar cane which brought by far the biggest return of any other crop. Sugar cane growing thus dominated the farming activities of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu's western coastal plains, the only plains large enough for extensive agricultural use.
Adult literacy and women's empowerment : exploring the contribution of a non-formal adult literacy programme to women's empowerment in Aileu, Timor Leste : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Development Studies at Massey University, Albany, Manawatu [i.e. Manawatu], New Zealand
(Massey University, 2010) Kotsapas, Alicia
While the majority of studies concerning education in Timor Leste have focused on formal schooling, this thesis seeks to explore the contribution of non-formal adult literacy programmes (NFALP) to rural women’s empowerment in Aileu, Timor Leste by examining the challenges that rural women face in their daily lives, whether their participation in the NFALP and literacy acquisition has assisted them with overcoming these challenges and brought benefits to their lives, and if this has led to their empowerment. The study adopts a gender perspective and focuses on the individual voices of rural adult women in considering how NFALPs are impacting on rural women’s lives, and provides a space for their voice, one which has been marginalised in the literature so far, to be heard. The study examines three important empowerment frameworks presented by Rowlands (1995), Kabeer (1999) and Stromquist (1993) which are relevant to research concerning women and education. The study employs a qualitative feminist methodology in seeking an in-depth understanding of the reality and lived experience of rural women participating in the programme through semi-structured interviews with literacy programme participants and key informants during a period of fieldwork in Timor Leste The research findings reveal that the motivation behind women’s participation in a NFALP is directly related to addressing their practical gender needs, rather than their strategic gender needs, which revolve around reproductive tasks and unpaid productive work. The study found that NFALP offers rural women who missed out on formal schooling another opportunity to achieve an education, however, yet the heavy burden of women’s traditional reproductive roles severely restricts their ability to regularly attend NFALP. Finally, the research found that rural women did experience empowerment through their participation in the NFALP, the most common empowerment dimension experienced being the personal (Rowlands, 1995) or psychological dimension (Stromquist, 1993) of empowerment.
Agenda success? : The prospects for sub-regional human rights arrangements in the Pacific : a thesis presented in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree Doctor of Philosophy in Politics at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2011) Hay, Kathryn Susan
Regional human rights institutions have been established in all United Nations (UN)-defined regions except for the Asia-Pacific. Although as a region the Asia-Pacific faces myriad human rights challenges, the diversity of countries and cultures and absence of a shared sense of regional identity inhibits momentum to form a regional mechanism for the promotion and protection of human rights. Within this region several sub-regional configurations exist. The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), whose members include fourteen small island states, Australia and New Zealand, is the primary political body in the Pacific section of the broader Asia-Pacific region. The vision of the PIF emphasises the promotion and protection of human rights in the Pacific. Human rights issues have, however, tended to be addressed within individual countries, and Pacific leaders have paid little attention to the idea of sub-regional human rights arrangements (SHRAs) as a means of supporting human rights objectives. Within the PIF complex political and institutional processes shape the work of the Pacific leaders and affect which ideas are focused on and advanced. Within the policy process agenda setting is a critical element as new ideas and policy solutions can only be implemented after they have been deliberately considered and agreed upon by the political decision-makers. Several elements shape the agenda setting process: the framing of issues and possible solutions by policy advocates, the availability of appropriate venues in which decisions can be made, and opportunities to have ideas presented to the decision-makers. If the political decision-makers, in this thesis the PIF leaders, agree to advance and implement a policy idea then agenda success has occurred. This thesis examines the prospects for agenda success of SHRAs in the Pacific. Twenty two semi-structured interviews were undertaken with selected experts from throughout the Pacific. These empirical materials were triangulated with secondary sources. Analysis of these materials highlighted that all components of the agenda setting process are evident in this case study of SHRAs in the Pacific. In particular, interrelationships between the framing of issues and alternative solutions, venues and policy advocates, previously understated in other agenda setting research, are able to be identified. Certain conditions, such as political instability, international obligations, environmental challenges, and the current scoping exercise, provide opportunities for policy advocates to push their ideas. Further, the results of the research identify several contextual factors that are shaping the agenda setting process in the PIF. These include historical, national, sub-regional, international, cultural, economic, and geo-political factors, and issues of sovereignty. Before Pacific leaders are likely to agree to the advancement of SHRAs in the Pacific they will also need to be convinced that the idea is both feasible and immediately important. Therefore, although there is moderate evidence of the preconditions for agenda success being in place, the receptivity and political will of the PIF leaders is critical, and will, in the final instance, determine agenda success for SHRAs in the Pacific.
Agricultural export growth and economic development for Tonga : the quest for efficiency : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Public Policy at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2008) Kautoke-Holani, Alisi Wenonalita
Neo-liberalism has become the dominant approach to economic development since the 1980s. Based on the economic principle of “efficiency”, the Washington Consensus and its supporters have avidly promoted the neoliberal orthodoxy as the ideal blueprint for the economic development of all countries in every region. However, as this thesis has discovered, the efficiency of public policy is weighed not by its conformity to an ideology but on how effective it responds to the economic and social problems of the population in question. In recent years Tonga has endured severe economic shocks which have pushed its low growth economy to the brink of economic crisis. In response to this crisis, the Government has chosen greater economic liberalisation and private sector – led growth to lead the economy to recovery. The Washington Consensus and its international supporters claim that this is the best policy response for Tonga due to the belief that greater liberalisation leads to greater efficiency. This thesis however believes that at the current dire state of the economy, it is not enough for Tongan public policy to just conform to international views on efficient economic development but to ensure that its economic development policies address the economic and social needs of the general Tongan population. With this in mind, this thesis investigated the role of agriculture in economic development. It identified that for an agriculture-based country such as Tonga, at low levels of growth, agricultural development is fundamental to long term economic growth. This research also revealed that agricultural growth is maximised through trade hence suggesting increased focus on agricultural export development. Based on these findings, this research project set out to verify the efficiency of Government agricultural policies by identifying the views of agricultural exporters and comparing these with Government approaches to agricultural export development in Tonga.
Agriculture and rural development : the case of Fiji : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Economics, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2015) Xing, Zhongwei
Agricultural growth remains a key pillar for economic development in developing agriculture-based economies, however difficulties remained to integrate rural development, food value chains, technological and institutional innovations, environmental constraints that have changed in the context of agriculture’s role. The renewed attention on ‘new agriculture for development’ framework started to emerge to achieve several dimensions of development. This thesis empirically investigates the issues pertaining to new agriculture for development that can benefit economic growth and address the socio-economic dimensions of development in the case of Fiji. Utilising Fiji’s Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2008-09 dataset the study examines macro-micro-level role of agriculture that corresponds to new objectives and apply this approach to evaluate the agricultural efficiency-development linkages. The empirical methodologies apply appropriate time series, novel cross-sectional approaches, new agricultural indicators and its determinants that examines (1) the impact of agriculture and other sectors to enhance agriculture efficiency; (2) moving beyond farm income by assessing off-farm labour participation and supply allocation decisions in the agricultural households. To achieve desired dimensions of development beyond those driven by market competiveness, (3) the role of remittances in the agricultural production estimations provide a new direction and finding to increase income and identify the causes of success for scaling up agricultural output, followed by (4) reducing poverty and inequality in agricultural households. In addition to contributing to the broader debates about agriculture-economic development nexus, the findings are also the first on applying new agriculture for development framework in Fiji’s case. Results demonstrate that there exist sectoral linkages and to increase economic diversification developing forward linkages through innovations are crucial and advantageous for growth. Findings of double-hurdle factors indicate the push and pull factors that influence household heads’ decision to participate and allocate time in off-farm income-generating activities. This implies that demand for labour, even for low-wage workers will not increase without a dynamic rural economy. The failure of low-wage and subsistence living depends on availability of land tenure and investment in agro-based industry clusters. The effects of remittances on agricultural production and diversification show that remittances tend to encourage households to be more diversified in farming, and to grow more cash crops. Findings show that non-farm household income sources contribute significantly towards poverty reduction of the agricultural households. Policies aimed at low-wage to reduce income gaps and creating employment opportunities could exhibit higher labour productivity.
Agronomy to promote resilience for indigenous students and farmers in Fiji : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Horticulture Science at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2022) Savou, Joeli
"Nai takele ni kai viti na vuli – Ratu Sukua." Agriculture is acknowledged as one of the significant contributors to the Fijian economy (United Nations Pacific, 2021). The United Nations and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community have identified Fiji as a country with a vulnerable agriculture sector and high food security risks. This conclusion is owed to Fiji’s seasonal cyclones, inadequate extension programmes, lack of technical knowledge, and primitive farmer mindset (Asian Development Bank, 2011). Research suggests that indigenous Fijian people learn primarily through observation and practical application. Similarly, the transfer of knowledge is through stories, songs and dances, making them practical people. A change in the pedagogical approach in agricultural universities by including field trials and linking them with the theoretical experience will promote learning for our indigenous students. Moreover, there is space to explore teaching approaches that may be effective in training indigenous students. Opening training pathways that lead to a better understanding of developing critical thinking for indigenous students is imperative. Farm trials (applied in the appropriate context) can enhance understanding and improve outcomes to bridge the gap between theory, indigeneity, and practice in agronomy. These attributes help address current agricultural problems in Fiji, such as climate change and food security, which farmers can adopt to develop adaptive, resilient and robust approaches to improve production. The results generated through this paper reflected a positive outcome in terms of pedagogical approaches in tertiary level in Fiji. The incorporation of field trials in practical activities with the guide of assessments is proven to develop awareness and critical thinking in indigenous Fijian students. The formulated templates are a key component in undertaking field trials as they can be utilised to adapt to any crop.
Alternative economic development on customary land in Fiji : how indigenous entrepreneurs blend customary and modern strategies : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of International Development, at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2020) Rice, Sarah
This thesis explores an alternative view of Pacific Indigenous entrepreneurs, showing they are weaving together strands of reciprocity, communal activities, traditional knowledge systems and elements of conventional economic practices to enable contextually diverse opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. By highlighting this enabling perspective, this thesis challenges the conventional development view that Pacific Indigenous entrepreneurs are ineffective and that customary land, upon which many of their businesses are based, is a barrier to development. This negative conclusion stems largely from modernist thinking and using conventional economic tools to measure business success. This thesis promotes Pacific Indigenous entrepreneurs and customary land as providing viable development options, by exploring a culturally embedded way to measure a customary land-based business. Findings contribute to a wider understanding of what constrains or enables iTaukei (Indigenous Fijians) entrepreneurs’ agency in bringing about positive change. A ‘hopeful’ post-development approach is utilised to study customary land and development as this approach seeks to expand the field of valid experience, prioritises human assets and agency and supports the ethos of people-centred diverse economics. Fieldwork focused on a Fijian customary land-based business and involving other stakeholders was undertaken during August and September 2018. This study was shaped by the Fijian Vanua Research Framework and an actor-oriented approach. Alongside these approaches, the ethos of Critical Appreciate Inquiry was utilised in this study. The case study findings show the success of the business was predominantly due to honouring customary land practices, which enabled the business to access resources, knowledge and provided a sustainable way to enter the formal economy. Informal partnerships were the basis for the socially and culturally embedded nature of this business, which both ensured support for the business and meant the business reciprocated with the community, thereby achieving inclusive development. These findings have important implications for how Indigenous entrepreneurs, in various cultural contexts, can be better acknowledged for their contributions to development and supported to do business.
Alternative education and community wellbeing : a case study of Tutu Rural Training Centre in Taveuni, Fiji : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Development Studies at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2013) Connor, Steve
Conventional western education has effectively become global education and yet it is largely unchallenged. The few who dare to challenge, what is arguably orthodox development’s main ally, highlight concerns. Education, it is argued, promotes elite capture, homogenises diversity, and disconnects students from their own communities and places that give their lives meaning. Formal education is fundamental to economic growth. It prepares people for work and carries the message of materialism. However, this study argues economic growth brings income disparity creating extremes of wealth and poverty, resource depletion and major environmental issues, further challenging education’s emphasis. This study sought to find an alternative approach to education. This approach is informed by postdevelopment thinking, indigenous values and indigenous education. Place-based education is an existing education modality which was found to conform to postdevelopment principles. A case study of Tutu Rural Training Centre in Taveuni, Fiji was used to explore if the training provided could be described as place-based education. Wellbeing is investigated and presented as an indicator of education effectiveness. The enhancement of community wellbeing, therefore, is used to assess Tutu RTC in comparison to formal education. This research found that Tutu RTC was far more effective than formal schooling in enhancing the wellbeing of the Tutu community. It also found Tutu RTC could be described as indigenous education, postdevelopment-informed education, and place-based education. Generalisations were made from these findings that have implications for the policy, practice and philosophy of the global business of formal education.
An analysis of the environmental planning framework for coastal developments in Fiji's coral coast tourist region : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements of a degree in Masters of Philosophy in Resource and Environmental Planning at Massey University
(Massey University, 1995) Tuvuki, Suliasi Wavu
This thesis examines Fiji's environmental planning framework with particular reference to tourism development along the coast. This focus is an acknowledgement of the coastal ecosystems upon which the tourism industry depends. However, despite this emphasis, the findings in this thesis could be relevant to all types of development in Fiji. Firstly, the shortcomings of the present planning framework are identified, with particular attention being paid to the sectoral nature of the existing institutional and legal arrangements. The important role of EIA is also discussed and is applied to the situation in Fiji's. Particular attention is placed upon the way the present system does not sufficiently recognise the important role the indigenous Fijian plays in the development planning process. This seems unjust since the indigenous rural dweller is the most affected by tourism developments along the coast and so the case study area, Korolevu, was chosen to provide a typical example of how such large scale, unsustainable, coastal developments have in the past, because of flaws in the present system, were often established with little appreciation for the traditions, protocols and more sustainable environmental management practices of the traditional local people. Now that the international community is beginning to recognise the importance of providing sustainable development which preserves the environment in the fullest sense, including the cultural environment into which development is placed, the Government of Fiji is starting to recognise the importance of applying such strategies as Caring for the Earth (IUCN/UNEP/WWF 1991) and Agenda 21 (Sitarz 1993) to the situation in Fiji. The findings of this thesis result in various reforms which have the achievement of sustainable development practices in the Fijian cultural context as the underlying focus. These reforms emphasise the need to recognise and implement indigenous rights into the environmental planning framework at policy, institutional and legal levels. The incorporation of the indigenous Fijian's interests in this framework is an essential component to providing sustainable practices in Fiji. This inclusion can only be achieved by providing meaningful public participation opportunities for such communities. Ultimately, the IUCN/UNEP/WWF (1991) and Sitarz (1993) documents and, in addition, New Zealand's Resource Management Act (1992) collectively provide a useful model out of which the Fiji Government could develop its own environmental management regime which promotes sustainable development through the identification, avoidance, mitigation and remedying of the many environmental problems encountered in Fiji's coastal environment.
An analysis on the effectiveness of community policing strategies on the methamphetamine trade in Tonga : a research project presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of International Development, School of People, Environment and Planning, Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2022) Naisali, Seimoana
Police reform in small island developing countries has seen the increasing implementation of the community policing strategies as a means to achieve trust and confidence of Police within the community. Over the past two decades, the Pacific Islands have adopted a community-oriented policing approach over more hardened methods of law enforcement found in traditional policing because its strategies offer a more loosened approach to restoring justice and peace in the community. However, there have been claims that foreign assistance provided by donor countries to support policing in the Pacific has introduced new problems for recipient countries, particularly in the areas of policy design, implementation and suitability. This report analyses the effectiveness of community policing strategies in Tonga relating to methamphetamine, and the ways in which New Zealand provides aid to support and improve Tonga’s capacity and capability to tackle the issue. Increased reports of methamphetamine around Tonga have been increasingly evident in media headlines and Police reports. The debate in this research draws upon findings in the literature, semi-structured interviews and document analysis through Tonga Police’s current policy reviews. The findings also examine the suitability of foreign priorities in the local context and how improvements can be made to increase the efficacy and efficiency of Tonga Police. This research suggest that while New Zealand’s proactiveness in Tonga has seen slow but progressive results, its drug related strategies lack input and direction from local government and Tonga Police. A shift towards culturally suitable policing strategies focused on improving community wellbeing through grassroots initiatives such as rehabilitation, training and education is urgently required. The research argues for more collaborative cross-sector efforts between local government agencies and external organisations whose involvement can help to alleviate the strain on Police resources whilst upholding and improving community wellbeing.
Apiianga no te oraanga akapuapinga e te taporoporo i te ipukarea : education as sustainable development : Mangaia, Cook Islands : a dissertation presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2016) Beumelburg, Paul David
Sustainable development (SD) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) became prominent in the 1990s. Problematically, these western centric constructs have sometimes been used to justify greater economic growth despite concern about the environment. Simultaneously, greater awareness of the pivotal role culture plays in development has demanded the rethinking of SD in terms of culturally responsive and contextually relevant ‘alternatives to’ development. Using the case of Mangaia in the Cook Islands the aim of this research was to draw out Mangaians own visions for SD and their consequent expectations for the type of ESD delivered to students in the classroom. Situating the research within a hopeful postdevelopment framework a culturally responsive, open ended, critical research methodology was used to gain an understanding of what constitutes a Mangaian SD worldview. Using participatory semi structured interviews underpinned by Mangaian uriuri manako (reflective problem solving) preliminary frameworks for Mangaian SD and ESD were co-constructed. This thesis highlights that to Mangaian people SD is complex and multi modal consisting of an indigenous development centred on oraanga Mangaia and alternative modernities, embedded in culture, operating at the margins of the global economy. This Mangaian view of SD, interacting with externally driven development, is continually reinvented by the Mangaian people using both indigenous and western knowledge, in response to issues of sustainability. The study argues that current western centric ‘Education about’ and ‘Education for’ SD programmes do not reflect the cultural and contextual reality of SD in the Global South. Instead, Education as Sustainable Development (EasSD) is presented as a novel concept, which embraces learning taking place within culture and is able to respond to the context and dynamism of hopeful post-development settings: it is argued that this approach would provide students with the knowledge to be able to fashion community-based sustainable futures. An EasSD approach would expose students to a broader range of livelihoods options and have the ability to strengthen a student’s language, culture and identity while potentially improving their academic outcomes. A strength based implementation that draws on the support of all development and education stakeholders offers the best chance of actualising EasSD and so empowering students with the ability to participate in, and lead, their own communities’ SD.
The arts in development : an investigation of the contribution of contemporary dance to development in urban Fiji : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Development Studies at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2012) Allardice, Megan
This thesis explores the contribution of the arts to development, taking the cultural turn in development as its point of entry. It treads new ground in that the cultural turn, largely, does not examine the specific area of ‘the arts’ as deliberate and heightened expressions of culture (Pérez González, 2008:11). Complementing the cultural turn’s emphasis on agency and multiplicity, the thesis also argues for the location of the arts within the aspiration for choice and freedom (Kabeer, 1999: Sen, 1999), and it looks to alternative development for modes of ‘doing’ development. These are models driven by concerns for participation, therefore, recognising agency, diversity, freedom and voice. A model is developed delineating three possible levels of contribution of the arts to development and suggesting that the inherent value of the arts underlies and unlocks the economic and other instrumental values that they also possess (McCarthy et al, 2004:37-39). This research uses a qualitative research methodology. Fieldwork was carried out in Suva, Fiji, with a focus on Vou Dance Company, a part-time, semi-professional dance group. Qualitative methodology was appropriate to the research because it responds to the importance that is placed on the search for values and meanings within the understanding of development as freedom as well as in the cultural turn and alternative development. Three methods of data collection were used. These were observation, participant and key informant interviews, and a participatory dance workshop. The research findings established a multifaceted definition of development and supported all of the types of contribution of the arts suggested by the model developed in this thesis in attaining development. The members of Vou and other respondents emphasised the importance of choice and perceive themselves as responsible for making choices available to others. A balancing of the economic contribution of the arts against values regarded as ‘inherent’, particularly those relating to preservation of elements of (traditional) culture, alongside the negotiation of hybrid contemporary identities, was consistent across all respondents. An analysis of national, regional and global policy documents revealed alignment of policy at all levels to these twin emphases of economy, and heritage and identity.
Aspects of Maukean population migration : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Geography at Massey University
(Massey University, 1974) Gordon, Graeme David James
The increasing dissatisfaction and rising aspirations of many Pacific peoples has prompted an increased amount of outmigration to larger metropolitan countries where it is perceived that these desires can be fulfilled. Migration of Cook Islanders to New Zealand is no new phenomenon. In recent years, however, for a great diversity of reasons, the flow has reached alarming proportions. The repercussions of such a displacement of population are significant both for donor and recipient areas. Although several studies have focused attention on migrant groups in New Zealand, literature linking the whole migratory process from the island of origin is not quite so readily available. It is becoming apparent that more attention must be directed at the causal factors which induce would-be migrants to forfeit a familiar way of life for one which can be initially bewildering.
Assessing the impacts of land use patterns on river water quality at catchment level : a case study of Fuluasou River Catchment in Samoa : a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Environmental Management at the Institute of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2015) Faiilagi, Seumaloisalafai Afelē
A sound understanding of the impacts of land use on river water quality and their relationships is fundamental in addressing issues of water pollution at the catchment level. However, while the impacts of land use on water quality, at different scales of operation and management, are well researched in temperate climate region, there is limited information on the impacts of land use on water quality in most developing countries in tropical regions, including the Pacific islands. This study contributes to determining this information gap and qualifying these gaps through scientific evidence, as well as assessing the impacts of land use on river water in the Fuluasou River Catchment (FRC), Samoa. The FRC is one of the sub-catchments (and the largest of four) that drain Samoa’s largest watershed basin known as the Apia Catchment Basin (ACB) on the island of Upolu. It covers an area of 45.57 km2 dominated by forests on the higher elevation of the upland catchment, by agriculture (through mixed cropping e.g. taro and banana plantations with vegetable gardens) and tree crops plantations in the mid-catchment, and by home gardens with patches of small-scale plantations (taro & banana) around households in the lower catchment. This study investigated the impacts of land use on river water quality response at ten sites across the upper, medium and the lower catchment. The study examined the relationships between various physicochemical (pH, temperature (Temp), turbidity (TUR), conductivity (COND), total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), Nitrate (NO3-), total nitrogen (Total N), and total phosphorus (Total P), and microbiological (E. Coli & Total Coliform) water quality parameters, and four major land use types: agriculture (AG), grassland (GR) (ie. livestock), built-up areas (BUA) and forest (FO) cover in the catchment. A change in land use was estimated by comparing the land use maps created from the years 1999 and 2013. The water quality was sampled and measured every 2 weeks at ten sites over the three months of the dry season from August to October, 2013. The findings showed the mean (± sd) concentrations levels of Temp (27 ± 3.521), pH (8.4 ± 0.48), COND (124.2 ± 25.73), TDS (62.1 ± 12.88), DO 8.96 ± 0.558), TUR (1.3 ± 0.557), Total P (0.01 ± 0.0026), Total N (0.24 ± 0.0159), NO3-(0.01 ± 0.0032), T coli (9923 ± 1782), and E. coli (7431 ± 1347) respectively. The measured parameters were analyzed and compared with the WHO, SNDWS and DWSNZ/ANZECC drinking and aesthetic standards. All parameters were found to have had their total mean concentrations below the permissible standards, with the exception of Total coli and E.coli. Out of 53 water quality parameters that were tested and analyzed, all samples for Total coli and E. coli were significantly higher, and therefore failed to comply with the drinking (SNDWS: 0/100 mL; WHO & DWSNZ/ANZECC: <1/100 mL) and aesthetic regulatory standards (DWSNZ/ANZECC: <260/100 mL) thus indicating a 100% of non-compliances. The findings are indicative of high levels of microbiological contamination all across the catchment, which indicated very poor microbial water quality of the Fuluasou River. The Total coli and E. coli were recognized as the two major pollutants in the Fuluasou River. The coefficient of variance (CV) for all the measured parameters have indicated a low variation amongst the measured parameters across the upper, mid and the lower catchment at different sampling stations, except TUR (44.4%), NO3- (38.9%) and TSS (37%) with a significant degree of variability compared to other parameters. The land use change analysis from the years 1999 and 2013 informed 12.7% of forest (FO) had been lost since 1999, with AG lands increasing by 10.8%, GR slightly decreased by 0.50%, and with BUA increasing by 2.40%. The findings demonstrate that FRC is under threat from increasing land clearance for agriculture activities such as mixed cropping (eg. taro and banana plantations), tree crops plantation (eg. coconut), and increasing in BUA to allow expansion for new developments (e.g. settlements) especially on the eastern-upper & mid to lower catchment. The study found a strong positive relationship between the four main land use types and water quality parameters. In the upper catchment where high proportion (%) of FO exists and this was found to be strongly associated with decreasing concentration levels of Temp, pH, COND, TDS, Total N and NO3-. This is unlikely the mid-catchment where AG is the dominant land use type and it positively influences pH, Temp, COND, NO3-, TDS, Total N, Total P, which are indicative of high intensity in mixed-cropping plantations and possible waste input from increasing agricultural activities and settlements going downstream. This spatial relationship is similar to GR areas used for livestock grazing and cattle farming in the upper and the mid-catchment which is strongly reflected in increase in pH, COD, TDS, NO3-, E.coli, Temp, Total N, Total coli, and E.coli. Despite having water quality parameters that are strongly influenced by land use across the catchment, individual effects for each land use type could not be determined due to a multicollinearity issue, as a result of the net effects of land use proportions (%) of sub-catchments delineated upstream. This can be further examined in future studies. Future improvements to the assessment of land use impact, can include water quality monitoring covering the wet seasons (Nov-Apr), as more runoff could possibly discharge higher concentration levels of pollution, instead of only having samples from the dry period.
Assessing the sustainability of indigenous food systems in Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) : a dissertation presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health Nutrition & Food Systems at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2022) Vogliano, Christopher
Indigenous Peoples living in Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) who have traditionally relied on locally grown, biodiverse foods for their primary source of nutrition are now seeing the adverse impacts of changing diets and climate change. Shifts away from traditional diets towards modern, imported and ultra-processed foods are likely giving rise to noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, which are now the leading causes of mortality. Climate change is magnifying health inequities and challenging food and nutrition security through heavier rains, longer droughts, and rising sea levels. COVID-19 has highlighted additional challenges for those living in PSIDS, exposing vulnerabilities across global food systems. Using Solomon Islands as a proxy for the broader Pacific, this thesis aims to assess PSIDS food system sustainability, including diet quality and diversity, as well as perceived food system transitions. Findings from this thesis can help strengthen discourse around promoting sustainable and resilient food systems and help achieve food and nutrition security targets set by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
An assessment of local perceptions towards natural resource management practices in the Tuvalu Islands, South Pacific : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science (MSc) in Ecology, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2018) Finaunga, Moeo
As the role of local people in natural resource management continues to be recognized in global conservation interventions, so too does the need to understand the perspectives of local people towards various resource management practices. This study examines local perceptions in Tuvalu towards traditional versus modern resource management practices, and furthermore assesses compliance and enforcement with protected areas village rules or legislation at the community level in the Tuvalu Islands, South Pacific. A mixed method research approach was adopted that includes a nationwide questionnaire survey, a review of the literature and triangulation. The study findings emphasize the dedicated support for local government to deal with most of the aspects of resource management in Tuvalu. The survey findings showed a strong preference by participants to have their Island Councils or Kaupules as the appropriate and responsible authority to be the key informant on the stock status of their natural resources, to manage their island land and marine resources, and to report and impose penalties for violations against their village resource management rules. Participants also indicated a strong preference for a mix resource management system that combines both scientific-based and traditional resource management approaches over a system that uses only traditional resource management strategies. Despite the weakness in the enforcement of existing resource management legislation in Tuvalu, where a monetary fine and imprisonment are the main prosecution methods, monetary fines was strongly perceived in this study as the most preferred method to promote village compliance and enforcement of both formal and informal village laws. In contrast, there was little support to use other common discipline methods such as imprisonment, public shaming, and traditional penalties such as public beating, and feeding of the whole island community by the caught violators; however, this is argued as either being morally wrong or no longer valid due to the Church’s influence and the adoption of laws pertaining to human rights. Although the findings of this study acknowledges that demographic and socio-economic factors can influence local perceptions towards resource management, there is generally very little evidence to conclude that there were significant differences in the perceptions of survey participants based on the many years they have resided in their home islands, having held a leadership role and age. The minor differences in the perceptions may be associated with lack of diversity in the culture of each island, small national population, weak hierarchy in economic status at the individual level as seen in other developing nations. This research provides a deeper understanding of the uncertainties associated with the need and obligation to impose stricter or more resource management measures in small local communities in response to the global move to protect biodiversity. Most importantly, it emphasizes the argument to consider the influence and engagement of local government as an opportunity to promote resource management interventions in Tuvalu and in other local communities of similar constitutional settings.
The asset-based community development (ABCD) approach in action : an analysis of the work of two NGOs in Samoa : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Philosophy in Development Studies at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2012) Fuimaono, Ronicera Sauaga
Over decades, top-down development approaches have failed to deliver real and sustainable development outcomes for the masses in developing countries, thus providing an impetus for exploring alternative development approaches. The asset-based community development (ABCD) approach is said to offer not only a ‘people-centred’ but also a ‘citizen-driven’ approach. This thesis investigates two locally-based NGOs in Samoa, Tagiilima Handicrafts Association (THA) and Women in Business Development Inc. (WIBDI) to ascertain whether they use ABCD to promote locally-driven development. Both NGOs administer village-based income generating-projects. The thesis explores in particular how local people access and control existing local assets; including traditional skills and knowledge (social and cultural assets) and natural resources (environmental assets), into useful products and commodities. Using a qualitative method, the researcher collected data through in-depth semi structured interviews with grassroots members, Heads of NGOs and other key stakeholders, and a focus group discussion with community members only. The results show that participants have improved their livelihoods as evident in financial outcomes, along with their ability to meet cultural and religious obligations. Although most participants had not heard of the ABCD framework, in essence its principles are embedded and reflected in the practices of the organisations being studied. Overall, unlike traditional development interventions, the ABCD approach provides a model that is empowering and can create sustainable outcomes for rural people if used well. Nevertheless, concerns were raised by a minority of participants regarding the issue of the ‘middle-man role’ which can have a disempowering effect on village-based producers. Three major conclusions can be drawn from this study. First, the use of an asset-based approach offers tremendous potential for Samoans as a strategy to enhance locally-driven community development. Second, NGOs and donor-led projects must find their place and utilise the existing traditional structures, systems and values within a village-setting if they wish to be effective. Thirdly, strengthening collaborations and networks with key development partners is critical for the success of NGOs. The absence of any official (or otherwise substantive) study on the long term effects of donor funding through the work of NGOs on grassroots rural development in Samoa makes this research and its findings timely.
Bai givim mipela planti strong : teacher training programmes and teacher empowerment in Papua New Guinea : a research report presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of International Development at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2022) Ready, Joseph
Teachers are an indispensable component of an education system. “Teachers are one of the most influential and powerful forces for equity, access and quality in education and key to sustainable global development” (UNESCO, 2008b, para 1.). Issues of teaching training and retention are having significant impacts on the quality of education in countries of the Global South. The increased focus on education access have resulted in classroom sizes ballooning in Papua New Guinea which in turn has impacted the quality of education. Numerous donors and agencies are working in Papua New Guinea in the education space. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have been filling the gaps in teacher training through programmes to support and address the quality of education. Little is known about the extent to which teachers in these programmes are empowered. Therefore, it is timely to look at the relationship between teacher training programmes and teacher empowerment. This report uses an adapted empowerment approach as a theoretical framework to understand how teacher training programmes can empower teachers. This qualitative research draws on the case study of Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF), an education, health, and community NGO with a specific focus on the Teach for Tomorrow programmes. The project involved multiple methods to collect data, which were: tok stori, a culturally appropriate method of research with participants, document analysis, and a semi structured interview. The voices of participants feature teachers and an NGO employee with a strong localisation focus. Three key themes of culture, knowledge and partnership were identified from literature and form the foundation on which the empowerment lens was applied to this research. Findings show that there was a substantial increase in the amount of trained and certified teachers through the T4T programmes. Opportunities to improve the quality of teaching were provided through professional development and training. This received positive response from participants. Recognition of existing teacher knowledge of their communities was a vital part to ensure programme content focused on adding value to teachers’ knowledge. Overall, KTF programmes are making positive changes which empower teachers professionally, personally and as member of the community.
Beach fale tourism in Samoa: The value of indigenous ownership and control over tourism
(2009-07-21T20:58:40Z) Scheyvens, Regina
This working paper reports on the findings of a research project which explores the budget tourism sector in Samoa as epitomized by beach fale tourism. Its main aim is to draw attention to the legitimacy and value of this often overlooked sector of the tourism market. As such it documents ways in which beach fale have contributed to development in Samoan villages, as well as identifying constraints to improvement of this sector. It concludes with a number of recommendations as to how sustainable, equity-enhancing development of tourism in Samoa can be supported in the future. Readers seeking a thorough understanding of beach fale tourism, including contextual information on the nature of tourism development in Samoa, and specific information concerning training and financial support for beach fale operators and impressions of tourists, are referred to an earlier paper in this series (CIGAD Working Paper No.3/2005 – see Scheyvens 2005b). The beach fale industry has contributed significantly to the development of a number of Samoan villages. There have been widespread multiplier effects for village communities as the fale are constructed using mainly local materials and expertise, and their owners often purchase items such as fruit, vegetables, seafood, and mats from the village and hire village labour during busy periods. Guests also contribute to the wider village through various means such as purchases made from village shops, use of local transport, and contributions to the collection plate when they attend a church service. Another benefit of beach fale tourism which has not been officially acknowledged is that it has restored the pride of many villagers in their home environment. Most Samoans feel genuinely honoured when people from all over the world come to visit their village and learn about their culture, and consequently community members contribute enthusiastically to village beautification efforts. Furthermore, the economic rejuvenation of some villages through beach fale tourism has reduced rural-urban migration as young people feel they now can stay in their home village and have a viable future. Despite the significant growth of the beach fale sector and the benefits this has brought to rural communities, it has been overlooked, disregarded, and in some cases harshly criticised by various commentators. Beach fale are seemingly invisible to those estimating the number of beds available for tourists in Samoa, for example, as they do not include beach fale accommodation in their estimates. Similarly, an Asian Development Bank report on Samoa (ADB 2000) with an entire chapter on tourism does not mention that beach fale exist. Outside consultants and investors, meanwhile, have voiced frustration with the communal land tenure system and its requirement for consensus in decisions concerning land use, as this has impeded the development of large resorts in prime beach side locations; instead, small clusters of beach fale occupy some of the best coastal sites in Samoa. This also irks some Samoans involved in the tourism industry, as they feel that there are too many run-down beach fale, forming a scar on the landscape. Related to this point, it has been suggested that the development of a strong budget tourism sector is not good for Samoa’s image because a country so well endowed with natural and cultural assets should be home to high class resorts which attract high spending tourists. In addition there is some jealousy of the success of beach fale from the owners of small, lower class hotels, who now see many of their former clientele (such as staff of government agencies) preferring to stay in beach fale; it is likely that this jealousy contributes to negative perceptions of what beach fale have to offer the tourism sector. The Government is now introducing changes which could undermine beach fale tourism in some areas. Firstly, an amendment bill was passed in Parliament in on June 26, 2003, to encourage more foreign investment in higher class resorts. This involves the government playing a stronger role in assisting outsiders to lease land, and tax breaks being given to new hotel/resort developments, with the size of the tax relief being proportional to the size of the hotel/resort. This may see more land moving out of community hands, at least temporarily, in the future, but it is unclear if this is also signaling less government support for the small-scale beach fale initiatives. Secondly, partly in response to concerns from within the tourism industry about supposed substandard accommodation and facilities provided by some beach fale operations, staff of the Samoan Tourism Authority are formalizing planning procedures by developing ‘minimum standards’ which tourist accommodation providers must abide by if they want to be promoted or endorsed by the Government. Depending on the final details of these minimum standards, this may mean that less wealthy families will be unlikely to establish a beach fale venture, as greater resources will be required to meet the minimum standards. Based on these findings and an earlier paper ( 2005b), this working paper makes four key recommendations: • Firstly, village leaders together with Samoan Tourism Authority (STA) personnel need to regularly monitor the development of beach fale (through personal observation, village meetings, and consultation with tourists), and to control this development where necessary, in order to: a) maximise the benefits villagers gain from the fale (for example, in order to maintain their popularity beach fale need to continue to offer tourists a unique cultural experience in a relaxed environment - if some villages are oversubscribed with beach fale enterprises and owners start haggling for custom, this is likely to deter tourists) b) minimise inconvenience/harm to local people from tourism. To date, matai have effectively put in place good social controls on tourist behaviour but they may need to pay more attention to environmental issues (such as sewage disposal and use of fresh water by beach fale), and to equity issues ( ensuring that beach fale development does not impinge heavily on access of local people to the beach or marine resources) otherwise resentment towards tourism could build up over time. • Secondly, the Samoan Tourism Authority and donors such as NZAID should continue to support beach fale enterprises and to ensure that in doing so they offer assistance to a diverse range of enterprises, from the very basic to those that are now well promoted and more up-market. While it would be easy to overlook the basic beach fale enterprises, they effectively provide an important livelihood strategy particularly for those who are not in a strong economic position withintheir village, and it is operators of these enterprises who are in more need of help with matters like publicity, marketing, and service provision. • Thirdly, officials need to recognize the importance of the domestic tourism market, and to encourage development of this market both because a) it is a very good source of revenue and it is less fickle than the international tourism market, and b) this would signal that the government is interested in the recreation and well-being of its own citizens, rather than just offering up the country’s best scenic assets for the enjoyment of foreign tourists. • Fourthly, there is further potential to develop the beach fale sector, but advice needs to be provided to villagers about development of associated products and services, such as beach clothing, souvenirs, food or tours, so that they are aware of viable options which do not just replicate the basic beach fale concept. The Samoan Tourism Authority, Small Business Enterprise Centre, donors and other relevant agencies could assist villagers to identify and develop appropriate products and services to enhance the beach fale experience. In summary, this paper shows how a unique model of tourism development centred on basic beach fale has evolved in Samoa and is reaping considerable benefits for rural people. Samoa has until recently eschewed many advances from international interests because of land tenure issues, preferring to take a path which has supported the development of a strong and dynamic budget beach fale sector (see 2005a, 2005b). This paper suggests that although beach fale tourism does not attract high spending tourists, it should be considered ‘high value’ in terms of community development because most economic benefits are retained locally, it is based upon local skills and resources, it involves cultural education of guests, it supports conservation of resources, and it does this all in the context of high levels of local ownership, participation and control.
Beauty in the ugly : an insiders look at Krump in Aotearoa : Master of Design thesis, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
(Massey University, 2020) Luani, Matthew D. L
Krump is street dance that has a history of being perceived as an aggressive, ugly, and somewhat violent dance. Created by youth in South Los Angeles, Krump is highly intense, physically demanding and is an avenue for dancers to express their emotions in a creative and positive way. Now a global movement, this research focuses on the experience of Pasifika Krumpers in Aotearoa in 2019. Using documentary filmmaking as a design technique, a short film Beauty in the Ugly was produced upon the stories of four aspiring Pasifika leaders within the Aotearoa Krump scene. This exegesis complements the short film by giving context to their stories and offering the viewer an insider's insight to this community. For these dancers, Krumping is a tool of resilience where Pasifika feel safe to channel their energy and are able to effect positive change in their lives.

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