Whānau, Whenua, Whare

Access to healthy, affordable housing remains a pressing challenge in Aotearoa, affecting both whānau and the whenua. This research responds to this need by advancing innovative, equitable, and sustainable housing strategies. By blending Indigenous knowledge systems with circular construction methods and Passive House principles, the study aims to design a modular, highperformance self-build whare prototype that supports future papakāinga initiatives. Collaborating with XFrame for prefabrication expertise and guided by the principles of Te Whare Hangahanga, this research explores the potential of existing prefabricated systems to create a proof-ofconcept whare. The iterative process integrates both qualitative and quantitative approaches to demonstrate how these systems can empower whānau to build homes that are affordable, environmentally sustainable, and resilient. With transformative Indigenous agency at the forefront, this research offers a pathway to address housing inequities while enhancing the wellbeing of both whānau and whenua.