Economic Traditions

Te Ao Hou, December 1956, Page 8

Economic Traditions The answer is that the situation in this country still reveals differences of historical background, ways of living, and economic conditions between the two races. There is also the difference of cultural background. Although the two races do come nearer to each other now because of the large numbers of Maoris coming into the main centres, basic things such as racial background are still in existence. While human relations between the two races can be regarded as an example which other countries might well follow, certain reservations still exist in the minds of a number of people who feel that there are many obstacles standing in the way of complete equality being attained. It is generally considered that there is a need still for a grater degree of understanding and more social intermingling than at present exists. Today almost everywhere, we are faced with the fact that if civilisation is to survive we must cultivate the art of human relationship—the ability of all races to live together in peace and friendship. To understand fully the problems with which the Maori has to contend, some broad knowledge of his ancient life—more especially his economic and social problems—is desirable. It is largely the form of society in which the Maori lives which shapes his personality and ability. Some understanding of these problems as well as goodwill, tolerance and a certain generosity of spirit on the part of the European section of our community are needed in order to help the Maori out of his present difficulties. No society is ever static. Even in a primitive society untouched by civilisation—slight changes are continually taking place. In the main, these changes are gradual, and consequently such a society adapts itself gradually to this intrusion into their social set-up. But when the sharp impact of European civilisation is brought to bear on a group such as the Maori, then a violent shock is inflicted, and adjustment becomes difficult. The problem of adjustment is rendered more difficult by reason of the fact that while the Maori is endeavouring to adapt himself, the nature of the European culture is continually changing at a pace often too rapid for the Maori to keep up. The effect of all this is that, at the time of Captain Cook's arrival in New Zealand, the Maori was still in the Stone Age, so when settlers arrived later he was asked to bridge the gap between 500 B.C. and 1800 A.D. In addition he was called upon to keep pace with the unprecedented material progress achieved by the European during the 19th century. These demands introduced difficulties which seriously undermined the confidence of the Maori in his way of life; and in himself. It is also desirable to introduce some sort of picture of the primitive economics of the Maori prior to the arrival of the early European settlers. Briefly stated, the natural surroundings forced the Maori to work hard for his living. His tools for all purposes were extremely primitive so his needs were only to be obtained at the cost of much effort. Work then had to occupy an essential position in Maori life. The idea of work had a distinct social value. Labour was regarded as honourable, and no man demeaned himself by engaging in it. Chiefs lost no prestige in carrying out manual work. Self

The majority of Maori men take on heavy jobs needing strength over long periods; many are very able at handling machinery. (NPS Photograph.) interest alone was not the driving force; but he was actuated by the desire to promote the general well-being of the group. With a commoner or a person of no particular rank, steadiness and skill in work helped to secure him a certain status in the community, and carried with them certain distinct social advantages. The driving force which stimulated the activity of the Maori worker was largely due to the necessity to satisfy his vital needs and to the social approval which he received from the other members of his group. He gained tribal prestige: he was often praised for his work: his work was often admired. Usually these tasks were of relatively short duration and if likely to occupy a long period were interspersed with other varied activities or periods of relaxation all designed to break the monotony of continuous effort. All these breaks or lack of continuous effort would upset the average European as being inexcusable. That these people should have no sense of urgency, no proper planning, and the fact that they appeared to have been able to manage perfectly well without time-tables merely made things worse. The European being the product of a civilisation which sets considerable store by having every hour of the day worked out would view the Maori attitude to work with disfavour. On the other hand the primary motive which impelled the Maori to work was the necessity to satisfy the drive of vital needs. There was no means by which he could postpone or prolong the enjoyment of the fruits of his labour when they were ready for use. To him there seemed to be no point in producing goods or food for which he had no immediate use. We have considered the factors that sustained a Maori community in pre-European days although there is an abundance of evidence left to us by early observers like Samuel Marsden, Judge Maning and others to support the view that the Maori of pre-European days was neither lazy nor thriftless but was capable of steady and strenuous work; nevertheless it can be said with some truth of him that he does not as yet take too kindly to occupations which demand unremitting attention and discipline. The communal nature of work, and the diversity of the occupations are two cultural elements which must be adjusted to assure that the Maori of today can fit in better with the pattern of modern condiions. Habits of punctuality and routine will have to be acquired because an individual accustomed to traditional conditions tends to look upon working for another person as he would regard doing a good turn for a friend or neighbour. He is willing to help, but not at the cost of his own convenience.