FOREWORD

This landmark report by the Ministry of Women's Affairs significantly advances our knowledge of the differences in the experiences of Maori and non-Maori women. It is another milestone in providing a model for the analysis of data by gender and ethnicity. Using gender disparity indicators across six sectors, Maori Women identifies inequalities that exist between Maori women, Maori men, non-Maori women and non-Maori men and, through further analysis, provides new information about the existing status of Maori women and girls.

The report is a resource for whanau, hapu and iwi to assist them in identifying their own priorities for development. The findings also indicate that government agencies need to engage with Maori women and, in partnership with them, build on the rich, diverse experience and insights Maori women themselves have to devise programmes and enterprises which affirm, celebrate and enhance their success and advance their progress. Fundamental in this work is observance of the Crown's Treaty of Waitangi principles of partnership, participation and protection.

Maori Women emphasises the need for a more strategic approach to improving outcomes for Maori women. Areas for action in each of the six sectors are identified. Moreover, the links between housing, employment, income, education, health and criminal justice highlighted by the research provide the basis for the suggestion in the report that inter-departmental co-operation and co-ordination are the key to maximising benefits for Maori women. Such co-ordination should also enable a more integrated and holistic approach to policy development and implementation across sectors. The Ministry of Women's Affairs' contribution to this work will be through consultation with Maori women and other agencies during the development of a Women's Strategy, and its work with key agencies to ensure analysis and monitoring is consistently carried out to improve outcomes for Maori women.

Te Korowai Wahine, the Ministry's Maori Advisory Group, supports the findings of Maori Women. Members affirm its value for raising awareness of the lives of Maori women and girls and the opportunities for enhancement.

I hope this report will be a catalyst for a new dialogue between the Government and Maori women. It should inspire departments to actively engage with Maori women to ensure they are fully involved in charting their futures.