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Download AudioThe Society of Māori Astronomy Research and Traditions wants the Government to slow down on its review on aerospace strategy and space policy.
The globally successful kiwi start-up, Rocketlab, has caused controversy by launching satellites for the United States military.
Some Māori at its Mahia-based launch site are demanding the company stop – or leave.
SMART’s chair, astrophysicist Pauline Harris, says the situation in Māhia is exactly why more Māori consultation is needed.
“It’s really up to the whānau what they do and what they want but I know the space regulatory people went there to have a hui and a wānanga. I’m unsure of the results but it’s complicated because you have a mix of people who are interested in collaborating and then you have whānau who’re really quite unhappy with what’s been going on,” Dr Harris says.
Submissions closed on 31 October – but Dr Harris says that should be extended, so wider Māori views can be sought on the Space Policy review.
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