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species although unfortunately, multiculturalism is not always appreciated in the same
way as biological diversity.
These island groups could present another claim again that capitalises on our claims
that we are all part of one Pacific polity. If that is our perception, then arguably, these
are our indigenous people too.
Accordingly the concerns of these groups that make up the founding peoples of the
state, are not only different from each other, but as a group they are different again
from the concerns and claims of the more recent cultural immigrants. Generally, the
recent immigrants may claim the right to practice their culture but do not contend that
the culture must be maintained by the state. The issues that arise from the practice of
the culture are not easy nonetheless. Even a matter as straightforward as dress, can
cause serious complications. May the hijab or Islamic scarf be worn in secular
schools? Can the burka be worn in a New Zealand Court?
The questions concern:
The management of diversity
I suggest that it is useful to distinguish the legal and the political management of
diversity. For legal purposes, biculturalism and multiculturalism are uncertain tools.
Biculturalism in New Zealand can be defined by its objectives. One is to
acknowledge and respect those things that are distinctly Maori owned and operated,
like Maori language, custom and lands, Maori schools (kohanga reo, kura kaupapa
and wananga) and Maori governance institutions (runanga and urban authorities).
Another is to make state operated facilities more culturally amenable to Maori as with
the recognition of Maori preferences and practices in schools, hospitals and prisons.
A third is to foster Pakeha engagement with Maori culture as with the teaching of
Maori language and culture amongst predominantly Pakeha students. A fourth is to
provide especially for Maori in national institutions, like the Maori Parliamentary
seats.