Ana Te Whaiti (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Mamoe, Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki) is a Ngā Hapū o Waimārama researcher who understands the importance of prioritising the values and needs of her hapū to support the project’s approach to research within her community. Ana advocates for the protection and preservation of taonga through her connection to whānau, to the whenua, and through discussions shared in wānanga.

Ana’s advocacy for the protection and preservation of taonga ensures the project aligns with the values of her hapū. Her connection to whānau, whenua, and wānanga fosters a culturally grounded approach to research within her community.