This research project adopted an approach which is grounded in Māori cultural values and beliefs to answer three questions: what are the dreams, aspirations and goals that whānau in the Porirua community have for their own development; what are the major areas of concern for these whānau which may in fact prevent them from achieving their dreams; and finally how do government agencies and institutions support whānau to achieve their aspirations?  The research also looked at whether government departments enable  whānau to realise their dreams in a way that is consistent with being Māori. 

Outputs
Publications
Boulton, A., Gifford, H. “Realising Whānau Ora Through Community Action: The Role of Māori Community Health Workers”. Education for Health, August 2009

Peer reviewed journal papers
Lavoie, J. G., Boulton, A. F., & Gervais, L. (2012). Regionalization as an opportunity for meaningful indigenous participation in healthcare: Comparing Canada and New Zealand. The International Indigenous Policy Journal, 3(1).
Boulton, A. F., Tamehana, J., Brannelly, T. (2013). Whānau-centred health and social service delivery in New Zealand. MAI Journal, (2), 1. 
Gifford, H., Boulton, A. (2007). Conducting Excellent Research with Indigenous Communities: Balancing Commitment to Community and Career, AlterNative, Volume 3, No. 2, Special Supplement 2007.

Conference presentations
Boulton, A., & Gifford, H. (2012, June). Tipping the balance: A quantitative analysis of the impact of the Working for Families (WFF) policy on Māori whānau. International Indigenous Development Research Conference 2012. Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, Auckland, New Zealand.