The researchers will use wānanga, catch information, laboratory experiments in which the lengths of the day-night and tidal cycles are systematically varied, and simulation modelling to: identify similarities and differences between the Māramataka and science in understanding of the lunar rhythm; develop a consistent analysis and interpretation of patterns of variation in predictions of fish catch; and support transmission of the Māramataka across generations and iwi. The research will show how an insight derived from the Māori fishing calendar can make a distinctive contribution to excellent research, create new knowledge, and generate opportunities for wide-ranging international collaborations in research.

Outputs

Peer reviewed journal papers
Walker, M. (2012). Navigating oceans and cultures: Polynesian and European navigation systems in the late eighteenth century. Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand, 42, 93–98.

Conference presentations
Walker, M. (2012, July). He tirohanga ā mua, he kitenga mā muri: Looking back to look forward. SciCon NZASE Science Conference. Auckland, New Zealand.
Walker, M. (2012, October). Tirohia ā roto, tirohia ā waho; Kia whaia te māramatanga e tātau. Keynote address at the Unitec Learning and Teaching Symposium. Auckland, New Zealand.
Walker, M. (2012, May). Te whenua, te tangata, te aronui, te māramatanga. Seminar. School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Walker, M. (2012, November). Nā te awatea-roa me te makariri-tō-roa, ko tātau: From the twilight and the cold, we come. Symposium address at the 4th annual Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga Research Symposium: Enhancing Māori Distinctiveness – The Contribution and Opportunity: Ko tā te Māori ake takoha ki te ao. Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, Rotorua, New Zealand.
Walker, M. (2012, July). Te Whenua, te tangata, te aronui, te māramatanga. SciCon NZASE Science Conference. Auckland, New Zealand.