January 31, 2017
Landcare boosts Maori input
The new general manager for Maori development at the Manaaki Whenua-Landcare Research says the crown research agency is keen to make more use of Maori knowledge in its activities.
Holden Hohaia says his interest in the role was sparked by the challenges thrown up in the course of working on a settlement for his Taranaki iwi Ngati Maruwharanui.
The experienced Maori bureaucrat says he sees a genuine desire to incorporate matauranga Maori and the principles of kaitiakitanga.
"There is quite a broad understanding it is integral to sustainable management of land, no matter whose land it is, whether it's DOC land or Maori landowning trusts and incorporations or iwi groups. It is about those principles of kaitiakitanga. They do seem to be quite embedded in the culture of the place," Mr Hohaia says.
He's keen to encourage more Maori scientists to get involved in land-based research.
FULL INTERVIEW WITH HOLDEN HOHAIA
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