Honouring Te Ao Māori in Freshwater Biosecurity
In partnership with the Department of Conservation, MEA released a powerful new report sharing nine case studies from across Aotearoa.
These stories map how Te Ao Māori is being woven into freshwater biosecurity systems, guided by the wisdom of whānau, hapū, iwi, and Māori experts on the frontlines of protecting our awa and taonga species.
From deep-rooted kaitiakitanga to bold new approaches, this kaupapa brings forward practical recommendations to shape a future where biosecurity supports, rather than sidelines, Indigenous knowledge.
Why it matters:
This is more than research. It's a call to honour mana whenua leadership and co-create systems that uphold the mauri of our wai.
Dr Jamie Ataria: Empowering Māori Solutions for Freshwater Management
Photo © MB Century
Dr Jamie Ataria, an Ecotoxicologist at the Cawthron Institute, is leading the charge in blending mātauranga Māori with science to address freshwater challenges.
With over 20 years of experience, he focuses on pest management and biosecurity, empowering Māori communities to protect their environments.
Key Insights from Dr Ataria:
📌 Mātauranga Māori + Science:
“Looking through our whakapapa and the Māori worldview helps find unique solutions,” says Dr Ataria, emphasising how traditional knowledge can solve modern environmental issues.
📌 Holistic Approach:
Pest management isn’t just about eradicating pests. It’s about reconnecting whānau to their cultural practices and environments.
📌 Recognising Indigenous Knowledge:
“Generations of Māori experience are often overlooked in mainstream science, but there's real value in mana whenua knowledge.”
📌 Building Long-Term Relationships:
“Māori aren’t interested in short-term fixes. We need long-term, trusting partnerships,” he adds.
Dr. Ataria’s Recommendations:
✅ Empower Māori-led solutions with resources and decision-making authority.
✅ Integrate mātauranga Māori and science to create innovative biosecurity solutions.
✅ Simplify funding access for Māori communities to participate fully in biosecurity efforts.
In Summary, Dr Ataria advocates for greater collaboration between Māori communities and agencies like DOC, with a focus on Māori-led initiatives, long-term relationships, and the integration of mātauranga Māori with science for a more sustainable future.
Read more about Dr Ataria's story in the MEA website or download the report here:
About This Pānui Series
This is the second of nine pānui sharing insights from Mapping the Incorporation of Te Ao Māori in the Freshwater Biosecurity System. Each pānui will spotlight a different case study from the report featuring the voices, values, and visionary approaches of Māori leaders across Aotearoa.
Together, these stories weave a powerful narrative of how mātauranga Māori and kaitiakitanga are actively shaping the future of freshwater biosecurity.
Stay tuned over the coming weeks as we uplift each of these unique contributions to our taiao and our people.
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