A brown whalebone club with two grooves in it on a dark background.

Mātauranga Māori: What we're working on

Find out about some of our current Mātauranga Māori research projects.

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.

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.

A scientist wearing blue gloves creating a page with a plant specimen on it

Project: Using genetic data to understand past human interactions with biodiversity

This research uses genetic techniques to provide insight into Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural past, providing new knowledge on interactions between Māori iwi by determining the translocation pathways of cultivated plant species.