“Manaaki Taha Moana (MTM) is a research programme to restore and enhance coastal ecosystems and their services of importance to iwi, through a better knowledge of these ecosystems and the degradation processes that affect them.”
We are utilising Western Science and Mātauranga Maori knowledge, as well as participatory modelling tools and processes, to assist iwi/hapu to evaluate and define preferred options for enhancing/restoring coastal ecosystems. This evaluation of options will be assisted by the development of innovative IT and decision support tools (for example: digital libraries, simulation modelling, interactive mapping, 3D depiction, real-time monitoring) by Waka Digital.
Action plans are being produced for improving coastal ecosystems in each rohe. The research team aims to work closely with iwi/hapu in the case study regions to develop tools and approaches to facilitate the uptake of this knowledge and its practical implementation. Mechanisms will also be put in place to facilitate uptake amongst other iwi throughout NZ