Project lead: Dr Ani Kainamu Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research
Across Te Tai-o-Araiteuru, mana whenua must dispute the controversial issue of ‘kina barrens’; a biased view that is used to increase commercial kina quota.
Although mana whenua have intimate knowledge of their rohe moana, the current decision-making process priviledges Western science. There is little known scientific information about the stock or the impacts of fishing on the kina population within this coastline; except a questionable quota-owner led survey in Moeraki.
Ecosystem Based Management (EBM) requires Te Tiriti partnership by supporting multiple knowledge in decision-making. We aim to contribute to existing partnerships and ensure robust evidence. Utilising multiple-methods this research project draws on mātauranga of kina and associated systems as taonga.
With this coastline as our learning place (wānanga) we utilise a range tools (wānanga taiao, sub-tidal ecological surveys, multibeam sonar, bathymetry) to revitalise taiao literacy, and by drawing on environmental tohu and bathymetry, create efficiencies in survey design, as essential in perpuating ancestral knowledge and best management practices.
By drawing on our cross-regional and multi-displinary teams skillsets, this project will present an adaptable approach that demonstrates and advocates to the Crown for urgent resourcing of coastal kaimoana ecosystem data that ensures EBM decisions when navigating the increased quota applications.