Māori have distinct cultural knowledge, values, and perspectives that establish their identity, responsibilities, and rights to manage and use aquatic resources in Aotearoa New Zealand. There is an enormous potential for mātauranga (knowledge) to enhance our understanding of aquatic ecosystems, underpin culturally-appropriate restoration approaches, and provide a more holistic and integrated perspective for research, monitoring, planning, and policy and resource development.
Intertwining a personal narrative, I will focus on mātauranga Māori and how it is informing current and future research and decision-making in aquatic environments of Aotearoa. I will draw from rich and diverse experiences and opinions and explore (a) the historical and contemporary setting which has hindered and aided Māori participation in aquatic management including recent key policy drivers; (b) the fostering of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) as an exemplar of the adoption of a Māori world view in contemporary freshwater research and management; and (c) examples of Māori innovation that are shaping freshwater monitoring.