Te Rāhui Mātaitai – Shellfish Protection and Iwi-led Conservation

Kaitiakitanga Moana – Navigating the Balance Series

This series investigates how culture guides our relationships with nature especially moana and explores what Te Ao Māori offers us as a way of thinking and being based on whakapapa. Through three wānanga, we investigate what it means to live in a kaitiaki relationship with the moana and navigate the responsibilities that come with this.

From rāhui to seabed mining to ancestral whale harvesting, each session opens a space to listen, learn, and activate our collective power.

Te Rāhui Mātaitai – Shellfish Protection and Iwi-led Conservation:

Why is there currently a rāhui on shellfish gathering in Taranaki? This session explores iwi-led conservation practices and the balance between customary rights, food sovereignty, and marine protection. Hear from local knowledge holders on what rāhui means in practice, how it is monitored, and what it offers future generations.