Abstract:
Internationally there is an interest in exploring cultural values other than the monetary valuation of coastal marine ecosystems as part of ecosystem services frameworks. Economists and scientists from Massey University, Aotearoa New Zealand, received government funding in 2013 to investigate the potential for applying an ecosystem services framework to an Aotearoa / New Zealand context. The purpose of the study is to identify Te Ātiawa and Ngāti Rārua Motueka Mana Moana values associated with Te Tai o Aorere, the Tasman Bay. A literature review was conducted to analyse the effectiveness of existing frameworks that incorporate Māori environmental concepts and values and explores current research of cultural values within a wider ecosystem services framework. The centrepiece of the current research was nine semi-structured interviews conducted with Motueka Mana Moana whānau members to identify their perspectives on how to manage Te Tai o Aorere. The research assessed the limitations for Motueka Mana Moana kaitiaki when exercising kaitiakitanga over Te Tai o Aorere, issues in relation to the health of the Te Tai ō Aorere ecosystem, and the relationship Motueka Mana Moana have with local government for decision-making. Participants emphasised the requirement to meet tino-rangatiratanga aspirations for environmental decision-making through governance arrangements with agencies, industry, community, and stakeholders, with whom Motueka Mana Moana want to be ‘calling the shots’ over their Takiwā. The key values emerging from the interviews were kaitiakitanga, mānaakitanga, and tūrangawaewae, all underpinned by tino-rangatiratanga. Further research is required to ensure whānau, hapū and iwi have adequate ways to contribute to the natural resource management and decision-making over Te Tai o Aorere. Finally Motueka Mana Moana have an intergenerational obligation as kaitiaki to ensure the mauri of Te Tai o Aorere is restored.
