Bridging Cultural Perspectives is made up of two models. One, He Awa Whiria – Braided Rivers, was developed by Angus Macfarlane as part of his work in the Advisory Group on Conduct Problems. The model is dynamic. It allows for different cultural knowledge systems to function separately or together, just as the streams of a braided
river flow apart or together in their journey to the sea.

The other model, Negotiated Spaces, was developed by researchers in the Te Hau Mihi Ata project. It applies the traditional concept of wānanga to the modern context. The wānanga are designed to facilitate conversation between mātauranga Māori experts
and Māori scientists.

The two models work together well – He Awa Whiria – Braided Rivers provides a conceptual model and Negotiated Spaces provides the dialogue space and the means
of application.
The Bridging Cultural Perspectives approach is a new way of collaboration. It is not easy, because it requires researchers, policy makers, planners and decision-makers to go beyond their previous conceptual boundaries. But the potential rewards are great. New and different ways of thinking can lead to innovation and the creation of new knowledge. These in turn can drive socio-cultural, technical and economic progress. (From the executive summary). Record #5751