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In November 2025, the gates of Katere ki te Moana Marae opened for a pōwhiri that marked much more than a three-day event. It was the beginning of a profound journey—a coming together of people from across the globe to share collective wisdom, knowledge, and expertise in support of indigenous-led development. A Circle of Collective Wisdom While the world often looks at development through a narrow, clinical lens, our gathering was built on Whakawhanaungatanga —the intentional process of getting to know one another and sharing our stories. We didn't just bring together local leaders; we sat in a circle with researchers and academics from the Auckland Business School , AgResearch , and international universities like Exeter and Ivey . The goal wasn't to "implement a plan," but to create a space where: Ancestral Knowledge Met Global Science & Economics: We explored how the ancient harakeke industry and cultural narratives of Taranaki could inform modern circular innovation. Relationships Became the Foundation: From shared meals on the deck to evening kōrero and a community hāngi, every moment was about building trust. Expertise Was Gifted, Not Sold: We saw a beautiful exchange of "reverse engineering for our aspirations," where global expertise was offered in service of our regional vision. Soft Launching the Heart of the Big Kai Redesign This wānanga served as the soft launch of The Big Kai Redesign . Rather than launching a strategy, we launched a partnership . We demonstrated that a mana-centred system isn't built on paper; it is built through the relationships between people who are committed to restoring the balance of our food and our land. As we stood together for our final group shot, it was clear that we are no longer working in isolation. We have formed a global whānau dedicated to the same horizon. "Our journey didn't start with a strategy; it started with a karanga—a call for the world’s wisdom to meet our own, so that together, we can weave a future that belongs to all of us." To follow our journey of connection, visit rautāpatu.nz .

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

Hokipera Ruakere-Papuni is a dynamic KC (Kōrero Controller) for the He Kāhui Mano Summit, with affiliations to Ngā Ruahinerangi, Taranaki, Te Atiawa, Ngāti Mutunga, and Ngāti Tama. She is well-known for her positivity and high energy she brings to every occasion. With extensive experience in event facilitation and a deep commitment to Te Ao Māori, she encourages all voices to be heard and celebrated. Her beautiful reo Māori enhances her engaging presence and vibrant storytelling, creating an inviting atmosphere for this event. Hokipera is an exceptional choice to guide this important gathering, and her dedication to fostering connections and inspiring change will leave a lasting impact on all participants. Hokipera will emcee / kōrero control all three days of our conference, as well as offer a summary at the close of the Circular Economy MasterClass on Monday.

CEO - Manawa Honey Brenda Tahi is the Chief Executive of Manawa Honey NZ, a company known for producing premium honey from the remote forests of Te Urewera in New Zealand. Manawa Honey was established by the Tūhoe Tuawhenua Trust, which manages 9,000 hectares of land around Ruatāhuna. Under her leadership, Manawa Honey focuses on sustainable practices and community development, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and cultural heritage. The company is unique in its approach, integrating traditional Māori values with modern business practices to create high-value products that support both the local community and the environment. Whānau Led Community and Taiao Economy Manawa Honey NZ, founded by the Tūhoe Tuawhenua Trust, is a unique enterprise based in Ruatāhuna, New Zealand. This presentation explores the journey of Manawa Honey, from its origins in the remote forests of Te Urewera to becoming a producer of world-class honey. The company emphasizes sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern beekeeping techniques, Manawa Honey not only produces high-quality Mānuka and Rewarewa honey but also contributes to the well-being of the local community and the preservation of their natural environment. Brenda will share the company’s innovative approaches, challenges faced, and the impact of their work on both the local and global scales in her unique and engaging style. Presentation | Wednesday 9 October Plenary Keynote Speaker

Co-Founder and Co-Designer of Te Takarangi (Māori Circular Economy Model) Teina is a prominent figure in environmental science and ecological development, with a career spanning over 30 years. Teina’s advocacy for the circular economy is deeply rooted in her Māori heritage and focuses on integrating indigenous values into sustainable practices. Teina co-founded and co-designed Te Takarangi, a circular economy model that incorporates Māori cultural values. This model emphasises the restoration of natural living systems and the interconnectedness of all life forms. She collaborated with Juhi Shareef to reinterpret the Doughnut Economics model from a Māori perspective. This model, originally developed by economist Kate Raworth, identifies a “safe and just space” for humanity to thrive, balancing social foundations and ecological ceilings. Teina’s interpretation ensures that the model is inclusive, diverse, and equitable, reflecting the unique social and environmental context of Aotearoa. Teina is an active speaker and educator, sharing her knowledge at various summits and conferences including at the Ōhanga Āmiomio Pacific Circular Economy Summit in 2019, where she highlighted the divine kinship Māori have with the natural world. Teina’s approach to the circular economy is holistic, combining scientific knowledge with cultural wisdom to create sustainable and inclusive solutions. An Indigenous Māori View of Doughnut Economics This presentation explores the foundational principles of Te Takarangi, emphasising the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of balance and reciprocity in ecological practices. By reinterpreting the Doughnut Economics model from a Māori perspective, Teina and her collaborators have created a framework that ensures sustainability solutions are inclusive, diverse, and equitable. Māori Cultural Values: Understanding how indigenous principles guide sustainable practices. Doughnut Economics: Adapting Kate Raworth’s model to reflect New Zealand’s unique social and environmental context. Community Engagement: Implementing circular economy practices within Māori communities to achieve social justice and environmental sustainability. Policy and Governance: Integrating indigenous perspectives into national waste strategies and climate change initiatives. Te Takarangi not only provides a blueprint for sustainable development but also highlights the critical role of indigenous knowledge in addressing global environmental challenges. Presentation | 10am Wednesday 9 October Plenary Keynote Speaker