Matauranga Kura Taiao Fund
The Matauranga Kura Taiao Fund is a contestable fund supporting hapu/iwi initiatives to retain and promote traditional Maori knowledge and its use in biodiversity management. The Fund is part of the New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy, which gives recognition to tangata whenua and matauranga Maori in biodiversity management.
Kotuku nguturoa/royal spoonbills,
Kuku Beach
Traditionally the transfer of knowledge had always involved expert individuals, tohunga and wananga (schools of learning). Modern influences have seen this system gradually decline and the recording, collection and dissemination of matauranga Maori has increasingly taken other forms. As well, we have seen the gradual decline in the traditional knowledge being passed on to whanau, hapu and iwi. A wealth of knowledge has been lost and is in danger of disappearing forever. Many kaumatua have traditional knowledge related to cultural activities and experiences associated with our native biodiversity.
Mission
To support tangata whenua initiatives in the revival, use and retention of traditional Maori knowledge and practices in biodiversity management; to promote biodiversity and ensure traditional knowledge and practices of Maori are respected and preserved in the management of our biodiversity and natural resources.
Principles
- Promote the revival, use and retention of traditional knowledge and practices in biodiversity management.
- Foster the transmission and retention of traditional knowledge and practices with current and future generations of hapu and iwi.
- Support initiatives that incorporate traditional knowledge and practices that will benefit hapu, iwi and the wider community.
Goals
- Encourage hapu/iwi use of traditional knowledge and practices in biodiversity management in their rohe.
- Promote and seek support from other agencies that contribute to the mission of the Matauranga Kura Taiao Fund.
- Put Maori in a better position to manage their natural resources.
- Contribute to specific objectives of the National Bioderversity Strategy that relates to Maori and use of Matauranga Maori.
- Restore wetland areas and associated traditional practices.
- Promote hapu nursery developments.
- Promote regional workshops for hapu that will increase capacity to manage their natural resources.
- Promoting inter-agency whole-government approach to achieve better results for hapu and iwi.
Who can apply
Organisations representative of hapu and iwi can apply.
The operation of the Fund
The Fund is administered by the Nga Whenua Rahui Unit, who are part of the Kahui Kura Taiao arm of the Department of Conservation. The Unit also has a governing Committee, chaired by Tuwharetoa Paramout Chief Mr Tumu Te Heuheu. The Committee reports directly to the Minister of Conservation.
The Nga Whenua Rahui Committee meets three to four times a year, at which time applications to the fund are considered.
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