This paper details the development of a culturally responsive, Kaupapa Māori Research approach that successfully recruited and retained a cohort of Māori families with experiences of childhood asthma. The investigation recruited 32 Māori families, who each participated in a series of four in-depth interviews that were carried out at seasonal intervals over the course of one year. Families also took part in an interviewer-administered questionnaire and participated in a Photovoice exercise. Qualitative analyses were conducted of the material generated by the interviews and questionnaires. The methodology produced a 100% retention rate of the participating families over the course of the follow-up. This was attributed to the research collaboration, the respectful research relationships established with families, and the families’ judgement that the methods used enabled them to tell their stories. The study authors consider that “the methodology and methods of this study set a benchmark for conducting collaborative, Māori health research that can be used to inform intervention strategies that facilitate Māori health and wellness”.
