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Matauranga and science: using the best
of both worlds
Matauranga (Maori Traditional Environmental Knowledge) is
being recorded using questionnaires and oral histories from
experienced muttonbirders. Kaitiakitanga (Environmental
stewardship) and Euro-centric conservation philosophies will
be compared using records of discussions at gatherings at
marae, traditional Maori meeting places. Elders, Titi
harvesters, environmental managers, researchers and
conservation stakeholders are being invited to participate
to help the Rakiura Maori community to formulate a
consensus, "bottom-up" approach to collaborative
conservation management. We will evaluate common ground and
divergence between two cultural approaches working in
partnership. Jane Kitson, a Titi team PhD student is
compiling oral histories of experienced Titi elders.
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