What values do Māori use to shape their views around the use of bio-control agents to control both exotic and Indigenous species and to values, and how to they assign risk posed by the introduction of a bio-control agent and when is it deemed unacceptable?

Intern: Jovan Mokaraka-Harris

Supervisor: Wendy Henwood

SHORE & Whariki Reseach Centre

College of Health, Massey University

This summer internship project uses Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS – ‘drone’) technologies to record images within the Tapuwae block. The purpose of this research is to examine future possibilities of cultural mapping, observe environmental links and monitoring environmental change.

The overarching research questions for this platform are:

The research question for this platform project are:

What digital platforms could support a collective approach to Te Tai Ao?
How could this be managed; practically and using what protocols?
What are the potential uses and benefits of these platforms locally, nationally and internationally?
What are the potential Te Tai Ao future needs of iwi/hapū that need to be addressed in the digital platform considerations?
What opportunities are there for Indigenous digital solution platform that can be developed and implemented in communities?

How can the synthesis of kaitiakitanga and green polymer science enhance and protect the mauri of water in Aotearoa?

How can innovative polymer technologies protect and improve the mauri, wairua and kaitiakitanga of water in rural Māori communities?

This project will conduct research into the impacts from septic tank seepage. This problem is both out-of-sight and out-of-mind but has a major impact in rural and coastal locations where traditionally, Māori have located their mahinga kai, sourced kai moana and accessed fresh water.

What are the cultural, ethical, research, legal and scientific (CERLS) issues that are inherent in research on rongoā Māori plants and healing?

Debate about the misappropriation of information and knowledge in research means that greater care and attention is needed regarding Māori input and participation into research. This is even more important in the area of Rongoā Māori where matters such as inappropriate usage, intellectual property rights and commercialisation of information are of significant concern.