Kaitiakitanga, power, postcolonialism and biodiversity management: an Aotearoa-New Zealand perspective

Abstract

This research investigates the ability of iwi to pursue biodiversity management within the dominant environmental management paradigms operating in Aotearoa-New Zealand. This is undertaken through a postcolonial analysis of the operation and processes of Local Government and the Department of Conservation. The focus of which, is an expose of the systems and discourses of power operating within biodiversity and environmental management. This research was undertaken within a tiaki framework, utilising a case study methodology to investigate an iwi's ability to practice kaitiakitanga and biodiversity management, their relationships and engagement with Local Government and the Department of Conservation. The findings of this research are that; iwi are marginalised within contemporary environmental management. This stems from the dominant position of power held by the Government in society. Expressions of which are legislation, the practices and processes of Local Government and the Department of Conservation that pose local level barriers to iwi biodiversity management. This research makes recommendations intended to reduce these barriers and increase iwi ability to pursue biodiversity management.