The Maori in the Work Force

Abstract

This paper reports on a study commissioned by Te Puni Kokiri, based on a larger data base mainly from the 1991 Population Census. As well as demonstrating and extending the standard conclusion that Maori are in markedly inferior positions in the labour force compared to the non-Maori, the paper reports an econometric study which suggests that this is primarily due to some 'Maoriness' factor. An example would be that since social networks are the main means by which people obtain jobs, the individual Maori is disadvantaged by her or his network being more jobless. The study goes on to develop the relevance of dual labour market theory to an understanding of Maori labour force performance, and proposes a more elaborate model of the labour market than that which is usually used. The main findings are reported below, and suggested future research directions complete the paper.