The Division of Health Sciences has been given a new te reo Māori ikoa (name) – Te Tautarinui.
The name is an abridged version of ‘Te Tautari-nui-o-Matariki’, which is the name of the place where stars are divided.
Associate Professor Justine Camp
The Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor Māori of the Division of Health Sciences, Associate Professor Justine Camp, says it’s important to understand the story behind this name and why it has been chosen for the Division.
Te Tautari-nui-o-Matariki is based on the true story of how the Uruao Waka, Captained by Rākaihautū, landed near Kaikoura by using the stars to navigate the journey and weather the seasons.
Justine says this journey is deeply symbolic of the overall concept of health, aligning well with the Division of Health Sciences’ intention to create a healthier community.
“It reminds us that movement is intentional,” Justine says.
"Te Tautarinui speaks to our connection to the history of this whenua and the knowledge that sits within it." – Associate Professor Justine Camp
The name inspires the Division to continue moving forward with purpose, becoming increasingly Te Tiriti-led in its teaching, research and mahi.
“Te Tautarinui speaks to our connection to the history of this whenua and the knowledge that sits within it. That history provides a way forward – it helps us reshape how we approach health, the environment, and the systems around them. As a Division, our work will look different across areas, but we’re moving in the same direction, grounded in place, and committed to being Te Tiriti-led.
“While our research, teaching and clinical work varies across the Division – like the stars and their uses – our focus is shared. We are building a health workforce and system that better serves our communities, supports prevention as well as care, and recognises the connection between people, place, and environment.”
This name replaces Te Wāhanga Matua Mātau Hauora, which was a literal translation of the Division’s English name.
The new name was gifted by Komene Cassidy, University of Otago alumni and Managing Director of Tēnei Te Ruru Ltd. Komene undertook significant, tikanga-centred research, before selecting the name, which Justine and the University of Otago Senate were grateful for and elated to approve.
– Kōrero by the Division of Health Sciences Communications Adviser, Kelsey Swart