Search Results

Taranaki is a region of deep connections, and recently, those connections were made even stronger at Katere ki te Moana Marae . On Saturday, 21 February 2026, the Rautāpatu Foundation hosted the first wānanga of The BIG Kai Redesign . This multi-stage engagement is about more than just food; it is about building a collective, mana-centred regional strategy for Taranaki that supports resilient communities and a thriving local kai system we all feel part of. A Gathering of Many Voices Together with Josh and Mataiva Robertson from Vaimoana we were humbled to have over 30 participants join us, representing a beautiful cross-section of our community. Whānau travelled from across the region—from Te Hāwera, Onaero, Ngāmotu, Inglewood, Welbourn, Moturoa, and Waitara . While our foundations are rooted in Māori values, it was particularly heartening to see a strong presence from our local Pasifika communities . As indigenous peoples the sharing of knowledge, values and "reflecting together" was a highlight for many . One participant noted how much they enjoyed the session because it was grounded in real collaboration rather than just theory. Shifting the Dial The goal for our first wānanga was to introduce basic food system concepts and the importance of mana-centred values. The impact was immediate: Growth in Awareness: Before we started, most participants rated their awareness of "Food Systems" as low to moderate . By the time we finished, 84% of respondents rated their awareness as high or very high . Commitment to Action: Our community is ready to move. 13 out of 19 of those who provided feedback left the marae feeling fully committed to taking action in this redesign project. Values and Visions Throughout the day, we explored what kai means to our culture, the spiritual links of Mana Kai , and the critical importance of knowing our land and growing our own kai . We also heard clearly that our people want more practical ways to link our community resources together . He Rakau- illustrating our values, traditions and aspirations. We had an amazing hākari- fiafia- sharing our kai traditions. We would love you to join us next time! Looking Ahead to Kurahaupō waka We are currently weaving all your feedback into our next steps. We aren't jumping straight to solutions yet, as this is a process of redesigning the whole system. However, the next part of this journey will take us around the coast. Our next wānanga is planned for April 2026 at Te Potaka Marae . We are just confirming the final dates and look forward to continuing this critical mahi with you all. Register your interest here Mā te wā, The Rautāpatu Foundation Team

As we reach the end of 2025, the Rautāpatu team has been reflecting on a year that has been both grounding and energising. The Big Kai Redesign kaupapa has taken root, the foundations are forming, and the vision is becoming clearer with every conversation, every wānanga, and every act of community generosity. This year was about starting well, listening deeply, building trust, and shaping a shared pathway forward. And in that journey, we’ve seen incredible commitment from whānau, partners, and supporters across the motu and beyond. A Year of Learning, Listening, and Growing Capability One of the highlights of 2025 was the series of wānanga held throughout the year. These gatherings brought together local voices, national experts, and international collaborators, including our valued connections with Fontagro and other global food‑systems innovators. Our three‑day Circular Innovations Wānanga in conjunction with the Auckland University Business School, centred on circularity, was a standout moment. It challenged us to think bigger, design smarter, and consider how circular systems can uplift whānau, reduce waste, and strengthen community resilience. The kōrero was rich, the ideas bold, and the energy unmistakable.   Kai Grown and Shared with Purpose This year, maara‑grown kai made its way into the hands and homes of those who needed it most. Fresh produce was shared with whānau experiencing hardship, and also supported important cultural and community moments including: Wānanga Tangihanga Matariki celebrations Festivals and community gatherings Every kete delivery reinforced the power of kai to connect, nourish, and uplift.   Strengthening Relationships and Exploring New Opportunities 2025 was also a year of deepening relationships. Existing partnerships grew stronger as we worked side‑by‑side with organisations and community groups who share our big visionary future. At the same time, new opportunities emerged, collaborations that will help the momentum. These relationships are the backbone of our kaupapa, and we’re grateful for every person and organisation who has walked alongside us this year.   He Ngākau Nui - Thank You to Our Supporters To our community, funders, partners, and especially our whānau: ngā mihi maioha. Your belief in this kaupapa, your willingness to contribute, and your commitment to long‑term change have made this year possible. Looking Ahead to 2026 We step into 2026 with optimism and determination. There is still a great deal of work ahead, systems to build, capability to grow, and community aspirations to bring to life. But the momentum is real, and the foundations laid in 2025 give us confidence in what’s possible. Next year, we look forward to: Expanding maara capability Strengthening circular kai systems Deepening partnerships Increasing community access to healthy, affordable kai Creating even greater impact This kaupapa is only just beginning, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.   Wishing You a Restful and Connected Holiday Season From all of us in the Rautāpatu team, we wish you and your whānau a peaceful, nourishing, and joy‑filled holiday season. Thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to returning in 2026 with renewed energy, deeper collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to creating meaningful community impact.   Ngā manaakitanga, The Rautāpatu Team

A Mountain That Shapes Us International Mountain Day is a global celebration of the ecosystems, cultures, and communities connected to mountains. For Taranaki, this day is deeply personal. Taranaki Maunga isn’t just a landmark. It’s an ancestor, a compass, a source of identity, and the beating heart of the region. Its forests, rivers, and alpine ecosystems support life across the entire landscape. This day invites us to honour the maunga and reflect on our role as kaitiaki. The Unique Ecology of Taranaki Maunga The maunga is home to an extraordinary range of species and habitats, shifting dramatically as you move from the lowlands to the alpine zone: 🌳 Lowland & Montane Forests Home to kererū, tūī, korimako, and ancient rimu and tōtara. 🌿 Subalpine Shrublands A mosaic of hardy plants adapted to wind, cold, and volcanic soils. ❄ Alpine Herbfields & Mosslands Fragile ecosystems found nowhere else in the region, shaped by ice, ash, and time. 🐦 Rare & Endemic Species Including whio (blue duck), pekapeka (long‑tailed bat), and threatened alpine invertebrates. These ecosystems are precious — and vulnerable. The Pressures Facing the Maunga Like many mountain environments worldwide, Taranaki Maunga faces increasing challenges: Climate change, altering snowlines and seasonal patterns Invasive species, threatening native plants and birds Visitor pressure, especially in summer Erosion, intensified by heavy rainfall events Habitat fragmentation in surrounding lowlands Protecting the maunga means addressing these pressures with care and collaboration. Kaitiakitanga in Action: How Taranaki Is Protecting Its Maunga 🌱 Predator Control & Biodiversity Recovery Community groups and iwi‑led initiatives are restoring birdlife and protecting vulnerable species. 🌿 Native Reforestation Large‑scale planting projects are reconnecting forest corridors and stabilising slopes. 🚶 Sustainable Recreation Track upgrades, visitor education, and responsible tourism practices help reduce environmental impact. How You Can Celebrate International Mountain Day in Taranaki Walk one of the maunga’s many tracks with respect and care Join a predator‑free or planting group Learn the stories and whakapapa of Taranaki Maunga Support conservation organisations working in the region Reduce your impact when visiting — pack in, pack out Share your connection to the maunga with others He Maunga, He Taonga Taranaki Maunga is a living presence that shapes our identity and wellbeing. On International Mountain Day, we celebrate the beauty, the resilience, and the communities who protect it. By caring for the maunga, we care for ourselves, our future, and the generations yet to come.

The Ground Beneath Our Feet: Why Soil Health Matters in Taranaki World Soil Day is a global reminder that the health of our soil underpins the health of everything else — our food systems, our waterways, our biodiversity, and our communities. Here in Taranaki, where rich volcanic soils have shaped generations of growers, farmers, and gardeners, this day carries a special significance. Our whenua is alive. It breathes, transforms, and sustains us. And like any living system, it needs care.   Taranaki’s Volcanic Soils: A Gift and a Responsibility The maunga has shaped our landscape for thousands of years, creating some of the most fertile soils in Aotearoa. These deep, nutrient‑rich volcanic layers support: Dairy and horticulture Native forest regeneration Community māra kai Biodiversity corridors Wetland restoration But even the richest soils can degrade if we don’t look after them.   The Challenges Facing Taranaki’s Soil Despite its natural strength, our region faces growing pressures: Erosion on steep hill country Nutrient runoff affecting rivers and streams Loss of soil carbon from intensive land use Compaction from heavy machinery and livestock Climate change, bringing heavier rain and longer dry spells These issues aren’t abstract — they affect food production, water quality, and the resilience of our ecosystems.   Local Solutions Rooted in Kaitiakitanga Across Taranaki, communities, hapū, farmers, and environmental groups are restoring soil health through practical, grounded action: 🌿 Riparian Planting Thousands of native plants are being added along waterways to stabilise banks, filter runoff, and rebuild soil structure. 🌱 Regenerative Farming Practices More farmers are adopting cover crops, reduced tillage, and diverse pasture mixes to rebuild soil carbon and improve resilience. 🍂 Composting & Organic Waste Recovery Community compost hubs and home composting initiatives are returning nutrients to the soil instead of sending them to landfill. 🌾 Māra Kai & Mātauranga Māori Traditional knowledge guides planting cycles, soil care, and the relationship between people and whenua.   How You Can Celebrate World Soil Day Start a compost system at home or work Plant natives to stabilise soil and support biodiversity Support local growers who prioritise soil health Learn about the soil types in your area Join a community planting or restoration day Reduce chemical use in your garden   Healthy Soil, Healthy Future Soil is more than dirt — it’s a living ecosystem that holds the stories of our past and the potential of our future. On World Soil Day, let’s celebrate the whenua that sustains us and commit to being its guardians. Taranaki thrives when its soil thrives.

On 26 November 2025, the world marks World Sustainable Transport Day , a United Nations observance established in 2023 to highlight the role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . This year’s event is particularly significant as it precedes the launch of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) . For New Zealand, and organisations like Rautāpatu, working on sustainability, the Day is a chance to reflect on progress, challenges, and the opportunities ahead. Why Sustainable Transport Matters Transport is the backbone of modern society. It connects people to jobs, education, healthcare, and cultural opportunities. It enables trade, tourism, and innovation. Yet, transport is also one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 25% of energy-related CO₂ emissions worldwide. The challenge is clear: we must rethink mobility to make it cleaner, safer, and more inclusive. Sustainable transport encompasses: Public transit systems  that are efficient, affordable, and accessible. Active mobility  options like walking and cycling, which improve health and reduce emissions. Low-carbon freight solutions , including rail and shipping innovations. Digital technologies  that optimise traffic flows and reduce congestion. Equitable access , ensuring rural and marginalised communities are not left behind. The Road to the Decade of Sustainable Transport The upcoming Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035)  is a rallying call for governments, businesses, and civil society. It aims to: Raise awareness  of transport’s crucial role in sustainable development. Mobilise resources and partnerships  to accelerate innovation. Support evidence-based policymaking , ensuring decisions are grounded in data. Strengthen regional cooperation , particularly in areas like Asia-Pacific where rapid urbanisation and economic growth demand smarter mobility solutions. New Zealand’s Transport Transition New Zealand’s transport sector contributes nearly 17–19% of national greenhouse gas emissions. The government has committed to reducing transport emissions by 41% by 2035 and achieving net zero by 2050. Key initiatives include: Budget 2025 investments  in rail, roads, airports, and maritime safety. Zero Carbon Act strategies  promoting public transport, cycling, and electric vehicles. Waka Kotahi programmes  expanding walking and cycling infrastructure. Community engagement  through local councils and NGOs, from cycleways in Christchurch to low-emission bus fleets in Wellington. At Rautapatu, we support these transitions by promoting awareness of sustainable transport options, partnering with local organisations to encourage cycling and walking, and providing resources that help communities understand the link between transport and climate resilience. Active Mobility Cycling and walking are gaining traction as sustainable options: Cycling infrastructure  is expanding, with dedicated bike lanes and eco-friendly materials. Integration with public transport  is being prioritised, ensuring seamless connections between buses, trains, and cycleways. Health and equity benefits : Active mobility reduces emissions while improving public health and accessibility for lower-income households. Rautapatu champions active mobility by running community workshops, supporting councils in designing inclusive systems, and sharing stories of individuals and communities who have embraced walking and cycling as part of their daily lives. Linking Transport to Climate Action Transport is central to climate policy. Without decisive action, emissions from this sector could rise by 60% by 2050. Sustainable transport strategies directly contribute to climate resilience: Electrification of vehicles  powered by renewable energy. Modal shifts  from cars to buses, trains, and bicycles. Green freight corridors  that reduce emissions from shipping and trucking. Urban planning  that minimises travel distances and promotes compact cities. Rautāpatu advocates for stronger climate policies that prioritise sustainable transport. Our work includes publishing accessible guides on how individuals and businesses can reduce their transport footprint, and collaborating with schools and community groups to embed sustainability into everyday travel choices. Partnerships for Progress No single actor can achieve sustainable transport alone. Partnerships are essential: Governments  must set ambitious policies and invest in infrastructure. Private sector innovators  can develop new technologies, from electric buses to smart logistics. Civil society organisations  play a role in advocacy and awareness. International bodies like ESCAP  provide platforms for cooperation and knowledge-sharing. Rautāpatu contributes by fostering local partnerships, ensuring that Māori and Pasifika voices are included in transport planning, and advocating for resilient infrastructure in coastal communities. Raising Awareness: The Role of World Sustainable Transport Day World Sustainable Transport Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a global awareness campaign that inspires action at every level. Activities include: Educational programmes  highlighting the benefits of sustainable mobility. Community events  such as car-free days, bike rallies, and public transport fairs. Policy dialogues  bringing together stakeholders to discuss solutions. Multimedia campaigns  showcasing success stories and innovations. By engaging citizens, policymakers, and businesses, the Day builds momentum for the Decade ahead. Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2035 What might the world look like at the end of the Decade of Sustainable Transport in 2035? Imagine: Cities where electric buses glide silently  through clean air. High-speed rail networks connecting regions efficiently. Streets dominated by cyclists and pedestrians , not traffic jams. Freight systems powered by green hydrogen and smart logistics . Universal access to affordable transport, bridging divides between rural and urban communities. At Rautāpatu, we imagine a future where transport systems are not only sustainable but also culturally grounded, where Māori values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) guide infrastructure decisions, and where communities feel empowered to shape their mobility choices. Conclusion World Sustainable Transport Day 2025 is a reminder that mobility is more than movement—it is a lifeline for sustainable development. For New Zealand, the Day underscores the urgency of aligning transport with climate goals, cultural values, and community needs. At Rautāpatu, we are proud to support this global initiative. Our work in sustainability - whether through community engagement, advocacy, or education - reflects our belief that transport must serve both people and planet. As the Decade of Sustainable Transport begins, we stand ready to contribute, collaborate, and champion the changes needed to build a cleaner, fairer, and more connected world.

Reimagining Kai for a Stronger, Healthier Community World Food Day is a global call to transform the way we grow, share, and consume food. Here in Aotearoa, that message resonates deeply, especially as communities work to build resilience, reduce waste, and ensure everyone has access to nutritious kai. Our vision The Big Kai Redesign , a community‑driven initiative aiming to reshape how food is grown, distributed, and valued, is not just for today, but for future generations.   What Is the Big Kai Redesign? It's a bold, collaborative project focused on: Strengthening local food systems Reducing food insecurity Supporting whānau to access healthy, affordable kai Empowering communities through shared knowledge and resources Honouring mātauranga Māori in food planning and land use It’s not just a food project, it’s a movement toward long‑term wellbeing.   Why This Matters on World Food Day The theme of World Food Day often centres on sustainability, equity, and resilience, all values deeply embedded in the Rautāpatu approach. In many communities, access to fresh, nutritious kai is uneven. Rising costs, limited transport, and changing climate conditions all affect how people feed their families. The Big Kai Redesign tackles these challenges head‑on by creating systems that are: Local Regenerative Community‑led Culturally grounded   Key Elements of the Big Kai Redesign 🌱 1. Growing Kai Locally Community gardens, marae‑based growing spaces, and shared land use agreements help ensure kai is grown close to where it’s needed. 🤝 2. Sharing Resources Seed libraries, tool banks, and knowledge‑sharing workshops reduce barriers and build collective capability. 🍲 3. Reducing Waste Food rescue partnerships and composting initiatives keep kai out of landfill and redirect it to whānau and soil health. 📦 4. Community‑Centred Distribution Innovative models, from kai hubs to mobile distribution, ensure food reaches people in ways that are dignified and accessible. 🧠 5. Honouring Mātauranga Māori Traditional knowledge guides planting cycles, land stewardship, and community decision‑making.   How to Support the Movement Volunteer at a local kai initiative Donate seeds, tools, or time Attend workshops or community planting days Support local growers and markets Share stories of food resilience in your community   A Future Where Everyone Has Access to Good Kai World Food Day reminds us that food is more than nourishment, it’s connection, culture, and community. The Big Kai Redesign shows what’s possible when people come together with a shared vision for a healthier, more resilient future. It’s a story worth celebrating, and a movement worth supporting.

Guardians of a Living Taonga: Why NZ Wildlife Matters More Than Ever World Wildlife Day is a global moment to celebrate the species that share our planet — but here in Aotearoa, it carries a special weight. Our wildlife is unlike anything else on Earth. After millions of years of isolation, New Zealand became home to birds that forgot how to fly, ancient reptiles that outlived the dinosaurs, and forests that hum with life found nowhere else. Yet these taonga now face some of the greatest pressures in their history. World Wildlife Day is a chance to pause, reflect, and recommit to protecting the species that define us. Aotearoa’s Icons: Species Worth Celebrating 🦜 Kākāpō — The Comeback King Once on the brink of extinction, the kākāpō is now a global conservation success story. Thanks to decades of dedicated work, the population continues to grow — but every chick still counts. 🦎 Tuatara — The Last of Their Kind Often called “living fossils,” tuatara are the only surviving members of an ancient reptile order. They remind us how precious and fragile evolutionary history can be. 🕊 Kererū — The Forest Gardener With their iconic swooping flight and appetite for fruit, kererū play a vital role in regenerating native forests by spreading large seeds no other bird can. 🐬 Māui Dolphin — A Species on the Edge With fewer than 100 individuals remaining, the Māui dolphin is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world. Their survival depends on the choices we make today. The Challenges Our Wildlife Faces Habitat loss  from land development and fragmentation Introduced predators  like stoats, rats, and possums Climate change , which disrupts food sources and breeding cycles Pollution affecting marine and freshwater ecosystems These pressures are real — but so is the momentum for change. How New Zealanders Are Making a Difference Across the motu, communities, iwi, schools, and organisations are stepping up: Predator‑free trapping groups Native planting projects Marine protection advocacy Citizen science monitoring Wildlife rescue and rehabilitation Every action, big or small, contributes to a healthier future for our taonga species. How You Can Celebrate World Wildlife Day Volunteer with a local conservation group Plant native species in your backyard Support wildlife charities Reduce plastic use to protect marine life Learn about the species in your region Share stories of NZ wildlife to inspire others Aotearoa’s Wildlife Is Part of Who We Are Protecting our native species isn’t just about ecology — it’s about identity. These animals are woven into our stories, our culture, and our sense of place. On World Wildlife Day, let’s celebrate them, learn from them, and commit to ensuring they thrive for generations to come.

Rautapatu’s Big Kai Redesign: Honouring the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste Today, 29 September 2025, marks the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW), a global moment to reflect on how we produce, consume, and value food. At Rautāpatu, this kaupapa resonates deeply with our mission to transform food systems through indigenous wisdom, community-led innovation, and sustainable design. As the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) lead international conversations on reducing food loss and waste, we’re proud to contribute to this movement through our Big Kai Redesign . Why This Day Matters Globally, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted. That’s not just a waste of kai, it’s a waste of whenua (land), wai (water), energy, and mahi (labour). It’s a missed opportunity to nourish our communities and protect our planet. Food waste contributes to climate change, undermines food security, and strains our ecosystems. IDAFLW is a call to action for producers, businesses, consumers, and policymakers to rethink how food flows through our lives—and that’s exactly what we’re doing here at Rautāpatu. Introducing the Big Kai Redesign The Big Kai Redesign is our bold response to the challenge of food waste. It’s a systems-level rethink of how kai is grown, shared, prepared, and valued across Aotearoa. Rooted in mātauranga Māori and guided by principles of circularity, equity, and resilience, this initiative aims to: - 🌱 Reduce food waste at every stage of the supply chain - 🧑‍🍳 Empower whānau and communities with tools for sustainable kai practices - 🛠️ Support local producers and innovators to design waste-free food systems - 🗣️ Advocate for policy change that honours indigenous food sovereignty What’s Happening Today Global leaders will gather to share strategies and stories that inspire action. At Rautāpatu, we’re tuning in, contributing insights, and amplifying the voices of our communities who are already leading the way. We believe that food is more than fuel, it’s whakapapa, connection, and culture. The Big Kai Redesign is about restoring that relationship and ensuring that every bite of kai is respected, shared, and never wasted. How You Can Join Us Whether you’re a grower, eater, educator, or entrepreneur, you have a role to play. Here’s how you can get involved: - 🍽️ Audit your food waste and find creative ways to reduce it - 🧃 Support local producers and regenerative food systems - 📚 Learn about mātauranga Māori approaches to kai and sustainability - 🗣️ Share your ideas and stories with us—your voice matters A Future with No Waste As we observe IDAFLW, we reaffirm our commitment to redesigning food systems that honour people and planet. The Big Kai Redesign is not just a project, it’s a movement. And it starts with us. Let’s make every meal a moment of care, connection, and transformation.

Kaimahi at Para Kore Ko Moumoukai te maunga, ko Waitirohia me Nga Nuhaka nga awa, ko Ngati Rakaipaaka te iwi, nō Nuhaka au. Hollie works as the regional kaiarahi (educator/advisor) for Para Kore in Te Taitokerau. Their vision is for Oranga Taiao, Oranga Marae, Oranga Whanau. She loves learning and working in collaboration with the community to reconnect with, and reapply, traditional mātauranga for the health of the taiao and tangata. Para Kore Established in 2010, Para Kore Marae Incorporated is a not-for-profit organisation guided by Māori values and philosophies that recognise our whakapapa to Papatūānuku. Our vision - Oranga Taiao, Oranga Marae, Oranga Whānau - speaks to our aspiration for the wellbeing of the natural world which we see as interconnected with the wellbeing and self-determination of marae, whānau, hapū, iwi and hapori Māori. We work to serve people and Papatūānuku through providing education and advocacy from a Māori worldview with the collective goal of a zero-waste, carbon-neutral future for Aotearoa. Te Pūnaha Whakapeto Hautaonga - The System of Stuff We currently live in a linear throwaway system based on settler-colonial, capitalist, profit-driven motives that don’t recognise our interconnectedness with the natural world. This interactive session will explore the whole system of our stuff - from how we take the natural resources from te aotūroa to how we make it, sell it, use it, and then what happens to it all when we’re finished with it. By exposing this system, we can ensure our mahi is stepping out of these linear systems and into new (but old) circular systems that uphold the mana and mauri of our atua, and contribute to decolonised and reindigenised ways of living. The session will also include a brief overview of two projects Para Kore is involved in where we are trying to achieve just that - Whakahaumanu a Hineahuone and Hei Aha te Moumou Kai. Presentation | Tuesday 8 October Part of the Accelerator Sessions

Director, Tahitanga Trust Murray graduated with a Masters (Hons) in Natural Resource Management in the early 1990s and has been learning about the Māori environmental space philosophies and mātauranga ever since. He says he's not an expert by any means – but forever a learner - he has met many people who were (or are). Experiences with iwi, marae, farmers and growers, local councils, central government, and the dairy industry have shaped his thinking and appreciation of the world. He knows enough now to know how little we do know, but also how each small fragment can have a resounding impact on his understanding and approach - "Aahākoa he iti, he māpihi pounamu" Facilitator | He Kāhui Mano Summit Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 October

Founder and Chief Executive Officer - BEAM Circular Karen is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BEAM Circular, an organization dedicated to transforming waste into opportunities within California’s agricultural heartland. BEAM Circular focuses on advancing economic opportunity and environmental solutions by rethinking the relationship with waste and promoting the circular bioeconomy. Karen has a diverse and impactful career focused on sustainability and environmental innovation. Before founding BEAM Circular, she held various leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. Her work has consistently centered on creating sustainable solutions and advancing the circular economy. Karen has a background in environmental science and policy, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to drive significant change. She has worked on numerous projects aimed at reducing waste and promoting renewable energy. Her efforts have been recognized through various awards and accolades, highlighting her contributions to environmental sustainability. Presentation | Monday 7 October Plenary Keynote

Ngāti Porou Shaun is a prominent figure in Māori research and resource economics, affiliated with Manaaki Whenua (Landcare Research) in New Zealand. He is an advocate for elevating Kōrero tuku iho and Mātauranga Māori into environmental decision-making. Shaun leads the Tangaroa research theme, focused on prioritising indigenous perspectives in environmental management. His work emphasises the importance of traditional knowledge in addressing climate change impacts, particularly through the lens of maramataka. By bridging cultural practices with modern science, Shaun promotes a holistic approach to sustainability. Active in community engagement, Shaun participates in public discussions and podcasts to encourage dialogue on environmental stewardship. His insights resonate deeply, advocating for the acknowledgment of Māori voices in research and policy. Shaun's commitment to integrating Māori knowledge into contemporary environmental practices is pivotal for fostering a sustainable future. His work not only preserves ancestral wisdom but also paves the way for resilient communities facing ecological challenges. For more information about Shaun Awatere and his initiatives, visit [Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research](https://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/about-us/our-people/shaun-awatere) and check out his contributions on [Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga](https://www.maramatanga.ac.nz/person/dr-shaun-awatere). Whai Rawa - Indigenous Knowledge at the Forefront of Change Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga is driven by our vision of creating the foundations for flourishing Māori futures and bringing about transformative change for our communities, our environs and Aotearoa. The presentation synthesises the Whai Rawa research workstream led by Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga that was conducted in collaboration with various stakeholders by analysing how Māori governance, business, ethics and practices all influence well-being outcomes. This collaborative approach ensures that all voices are heard and considered. This presentation delves into the systemic challenges of transitioning away from a dominant neoliberal paradigm. It explores current Māori business practices, ethical considerations, leadership approaches, policy implementation, organizational arrangements, and the challenges involved for the Māori economy in transitioning to a circular economy. Presentation | Tuesday 9 October Plenary Keynote Speaker