Ngā Kaupapa
Our Initiatives
Learn About the Work We Do to Care for Our Environment
Our Initiatives
At Ngā Kaitiaki o Ngā Wai Māori, we are dedicated to the protection, restoration, and understanding of our taiao (environment). Each kaupapa (initiative) is guided by kaitiakitanga (stewardship), mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), and collaboration with hapū, government agencies, and local communities. Explore our mahi (work) below and learn how we strive to restore balance to our awa (rivers), repo (wetlands), and whenua (land).
Te Aroturuki i te Kounga Wai
Water Quality Monitoring
We use advanced tools like YSI meters to measure water quality, ensuring our awa meet the needs of both the environment and our communities. By monitoring changes in water health, we can act swiftly to restore the mauri (life force) of our waterways.
Te Tirohanga Tuna me Ētahi Atu Ika
Fish Surveys
Our mahi includes electric fishing and fyke netting to study fish populations and understand how to better protect species like tuna (eel). These surveys help us identify barriers to migration and areas for improvement in their habitat.
Te Whakatikatika i ngā Ara Tuna
Fish Passage Restoration
Partnering with NIWA and other taiao-focused groups, we work to remove barriers to fish migration. By addressing issues like pump stations and culverts, we help species like tuna and īnanga (whitebait) return to their natural spawning grounds.
Whanaungatanga
Building Relationships
Collaboration is at the heart of our mahi. We work closely with government agencies like DOC (Department of Conservation), NRC (Northland Regional Council), and WDC (Whangārei District Council), as well as other taiao-focused groups, to achieve shared goals.
Te Whakapakari Mātauranga
Mātauranga Building
We are committed to learning and sharing knowledge to better care for our taiao. From hosting wānanga (educational workshops) to engaging with hapū and communities, we ensure mātauranga Māori and modern science inform our approach.
Mahere Matawhenua
GIS Mapping
We use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map critical habitats, track restoration progress, and visualize the health of our ecosystems. This technology allows us to better manage our waterways and share insights with partners.
Hauora me te Haumarutanga
Health and Safety in the Taiao
The safety of our kaitiaki in the field is a top priority. We implement best practices to protect our team while they monitor water quality, survey fish, and carry out restoration efforts in challenging environments.