The Sustainable Seas initiative is focused on integrating tikanga Māori (Māori customs) and mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) into the development of a culturally aligned and environmentally sustainable blue economy in Aotearoa New Zealand. By combining traditional Māori perspectives with modern business and environmental practices, we aim to create a marine economy that supports both economic growth and cultural preservation for Māori communities.
Our work is grounded in collaboration with iwi, hapū, and whānau, ensuring that Māori-led marine initiatives reflect Indigenous values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and sustainability. Through partnerships with key stakeholders, we are developing frameworks that empower Māori to balance economic success with the protection of their natural resources.
Key projects include exploring how Māori-owned fisheries and marine businesses, such as the Iwi Collective Partnership and Moana New Zealand, incorporate traditional Māori knowledge into their operations to achieve long-term sustainability. We are also investigating the challenges posed by existing legal frameworks, like the Quota Management System, and proposing strategies for overcoming these barriers to ensure Māori-led enterprises thrive.
Through research, innovation, and collaboration, the Sustainable Seas initiative is shaping a future where Māori can continue to lead in the sustainable management of marine resources, contributing to both cultural and economic prosperity.
The Sustainable Seas research papers provide valuable insights into how Māori values and knowledge can be integrated into the blue economy. These studies focus on achieving a balance between economic success and environmental sustainability, with particular emphasis on Māori marine enterprises. Each paper explores key themes such as tikanga Māori (Māori customs), mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), and sustainable marine management. Explore the links below to read the full papers and discover how these findings contribute to the development of a sustainable, culturally aligned blue economy.
This synthesis paper explores how the blue economy can be indigenised within the Māori marine sector, proposing solutions for sustainable, culturally aligned marine management. It highlights Indigenous frameworks that support economic growth while protecting marine ecosystems and Māori cultural values.
This study presents practical strategies for indigenising the blue economy in Aotearoa, based on case studies within Māori fisheries, with solutions to overcome challenges. It examines policy, economic models, and community initiatives for sustainability and cultural integrity.
This paper discusses how Māori perspectives can be integrated into the blue economy, addressing challenges posed by legal frameworks like the Quota Management System (QMS) and Treaty settlements. It examines how these challenges stem from the current institutional framework and the need for structural change.
This paper explores how Ōnuku Rūnanga integrates Māori values into their salmon farming venture with Akaroa Salmon, leveraging authenticity to differentiate products in premium markets.
This case study explores how the Moriori of Rēkohu integrate traditional knowledge and values into modern fisheries management, balancing economic activities with cultural and environmental values. It highlights their enduring marine stewardship and strategies for sustainable fisheries.
This review explores the barriers and opportunities for Māori in transitioning to a culturally relevant and environmentally sustainable blue economy, focusing on integration, differentiation, and balance. It examines legal, economic, and governance structures that impact Māori marine stewardship.