Using Māori knowledge to assist understandings and management of shellfish populations in Ōhiwa harbour, Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

This article discusses a marine research project which prioritised mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge systems) to generate common management approaches and responses for the taonga (culturally important) species; Kūtai, Perna canaliculus , Green Lipped Mussel populations in Ōhiwa harbour, Aotearoa New Zealand. Findings from the trans‐disciplinary marine research project were used to develop a mussel management action plan (MMAP) which was endorsed and accepted in its entirety by the high‐level Māori tribal and Governmental partners of the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum (OHIF). This article provides an overview of research which used localised Māori knowledge systems to provide the foundations for improving, enhancing and safeguarding traditional mussel populations in the harbour. Further, this article critically positioned mātauranga Māori as an important and meaningful strategy for empowering Māori collaboration and voices in the wise use, care and practical management of marine taonga species for present and future generations.

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