Ika moana ika whenua

Ika moana, ika whenua is a phrase inspired by tohunga tohorā Dr Ramari Stewart, to unite these two projects. It speaks to the relationship between those who live on or are part of the land and those who reside in the sea, the realm of Tangaroa. It also acknowledges the whakapapa connection between tohorā and kauri. It is a way to express how cetaceans (whales and dolphins), who whakapapa to the ika linage, come to be part of the whenua when they return to the land to sustain, provide and enrich us.

While both projects are important and informative in their own right, they work together in an interesting way. These studies will help us understand how the relationship between Māori and cetaceans has changed since people first arrived in Aotearoa by combining mātauranga Māori with techniques used in archaeological science to tell this story.

A spiral carving with holes every four notches. There is a ahead at the end of the spiral with red beads for eyes.

Developing a minimally invasive species identification protocol for taonga tūturu

This project will create a minimally invasive sampling technique to identify the animals used in manufacturing taonga tūturu, precious objects created by Māori artisans. This will substantially enhance the capabilities of the museum and heritage sector to find and engage meaningfully with the custodians of these taonga.

Reconnecting communities and cetaceans using Mātauranga Māori and archaeological science

The relationship between Oceanic peoples and cetaceans (whales and dolphins) is a sacred and significant one that has persisted throughout history. This project will examine the changing use, abundance, and diversity of cetaceans from the first arrival of people to Aotearoa New Zealand to the present.