Ngā Pōito i te kupenga o Toi te Huatahi The Netfloats in the Ocean of Toi te Huatahi

Project Summary

This creative-led project focuses on four sites: Poor Knights, Hen and Chicks, Little and Great Barrier Island. 

The islands’ isolation led to their designation as sanctuaries, a Western conservation approach that separates nature from humans. As a result the Crown took control of each site. This separation disconnected Ngātiwai from our lands and environmental management practices. The need to protect our practices and the islands’ taonga species were central to Ngātiwai joining the Wai 262 Flora and Fauna Claim. 

The project has two objectives. First, it aims to document Ngātiwai histories related to the islands through archival research and interviews, preserving mātauranga Ngātiwai. Second, guided by our Wai 262 Claim, the project will use video and photography to creatively document and showcase Ngātiwai’s traditional practices and resource management related to the islands. This creative approach will produce a visually engaging narrative, capturing the essence of Ngātiwai’s cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. 

In addition to publishing articles, the creative work will be featured in public exhibitions. These exhibitions will include public programming to engage a broader audience. The Ngātiwai Trust Board will receive all recordings and findings for their archives, ensuring that Ngātiwai heritage is preserved and shared with the people. 

Project Lead

Dr Ngahuia Harrison, Ngātiwai, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Pukenga, University of Auckland