Cultural Considerations (Maori)

Question 1

Who can assist staff with meeting the needs of Maori victims?

Answer 1

The District Iwi Liaison Officer

Question 2

True or false:

Maori believe blood is sacred

Answer 2

True

Question 3

What is the procedures necessary before cleaning and releasing a scene involving blood?

Three steps

Answer 3

1. Advise the family that the scene exam has been completed and whether or not blood remains at the scene
2. Allow the family to have input into cleaning any remaining blood away from the scene
3. If the family wishes to clean the scene, provide them with necessary equipment

Question 4

What is:

Tuku Karakia

Answer 4

Deceased victim prayer

This is a prayer to the spirit of the deceased person, sanctioning release from this world and guidance along the path to the spirit world

Question 5

What is:

Karakia

Answer 5

Prayer

Question 6

If the family requests access to the scene, who are the two people you should consult?

Answer 6

1. OC Investigations

2. Iwi Liason Officer

Question 7

True or False?

Coroner does not need to be informed from the outset the ethnicity of the victim, as that is considered racist

Answer 7

False

The Coroner should be informed from the outset of the ethnicity of the victim, and the family’s wishes to have the body returned to them as soon as it is practicable.

Question 8

What is a rahui?

Answer 8

Form of boundary and restriction tapu