Pacific Dynamics: Volume 1 Number 2 November 2017 Journal of Interdisciplinary Research http://pacificdynamics.nz To know more of what it is and what it is not: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 Pacific research on the move ISSN: 2463-641X Kabini Sanga 1 Victoria University of Wellington Martyn Reynolds Victoria University of Wellington Abstract To name something is to stake a claim, an action which, while having a moment of origin, requires dynamic attention to context and development. This article discusses the naming of Pacific research. It offers a brief but timely reminder of the genealogy of the field before approaching a number of issues of contemporary concern. These include the need for placing new work within existing patterns and models of research; the importance of balancing enthusiasm with careful locative work; the value of respectful critique and ongoing re-framing; insightful discernment as a counter to the hegemonic tendencies of colonialism and assimilation; and the creative tension of connection and separation within a Pacific paradigm. Ultimately, research and researchers must pay heed to those who follow, avoiding clutter and preparing a useful space for future generations. Keywords: Pacific research, naming, genealogy, Moana theory, legacy Introduction Just over a decade ago Sanga (2004) challenged the naming of Pacific research. His concern was not the term Pacific, although this has been, and continues to be, challenged (Ferris-Leary, 2013). Instead, Sanga signalled dissatisfaction with the direction of naming; the origins of the justification of Pacific research as a field worth naming at all. He observed that at that time even outstanding and influential researchers felt the need to be justified by reference to the West, being named 'through' the voices of others. Perhaps this spoke of the educational experiences of those involved, a desire to be taken seriously by institutional players in other places, the unconscious effects of the belittlement decried by Hau'ofa (1994), a combination of these factors or of others. Whatever the case, Sanga's response was to offer a philosophical ground, a way of clearing space in which indigenous Pacific research could be delineated. This stance assumes that Pacific understandings of reality, knowledge generation and values stand on their own as the bases of a research paradigm to serve local Pacific interests without justificatory reference to the West. His description of the field as a paradigm recognised the creative tension between unity and uniqueness across the region. 1 Corresponding author: Assoc Prof Kabini Sanga, Victoria University of Wellington, kabini.sanga@vuw.ac.nz.