Kaitiakitanga : a knowledge economy that adds to the value
of sustainable fisheries management in Aotearoa/NZ.
Kaitiakitanga is a customary practice that provides for the protection,
enhancement and utilisation of natural resources by acknowledged kaitiakiperson or persons from a specific geographic area. A knowledge economy
for the future.
Ngati Kuta hapu who live in the Bay of Islands have recognised kaitiaki
who work alongside the Ministry of Fisheries to improve sustainable
management of marine species within their rohe moana.
Working with Ngati Kuta Kaitiaki who utilise customary knowledge has led
to innovative processes to improve fisheries management in Aotearoa/NZ.
Ngati Kuta knowledge economy
A knowledge economy is a continuum of
customary knowledge that is passed on
from one kaitiaki to the next kaitiaki. For
Ngati Kuta from generation to generation
utilising kaitiakitanga - customary
practices
Ngati Kuta utilises this knowledge
handed on to kaitiaki for present living
generations to make informed decisions,
regarding management of fish species
The benefits of a knowledge economy in
the future for Ngati Kuta will see
sustainable fisheries management
practices based on customary knowledge
utilised by future generations – ability to
utilise kaimoana for customary use
Future knowledge
Kaitiaki
Past knowledge
Present knowledge
Examples of knowledge economy
Rohe Moana Management Plan
Application to gazette kaitiaki and rohe moana through the Kaimoana
Customary Fishing Regulations 1998
Customary research funded by Ministry of Fisheries
Economic Summit hosted with Auckland University on marine
environments
Part owners of decommissioned frigate scuttled to form an artificial
reef
Establishment of good working relationships with the Ministry of
Fisheries Pou Hononga and Pou Takawaenga
Community involved in long term planning for rohe moana
Working relationships with Northern District Council and Department
of Conservation
Example: The Artificial Reef
2007 Ngati Kuta request the Frigate Canterbury to be scuttled in their rohe
moana to form an artificial reef
Ngati Kuta are part of the Charitable Trust that own the frigate, and receives
income from permits for dive trips to the reef.
Ngati Kuta hapu secure employment to assist with decommissioning the
frigate
A customary research baseline study is undertaken prior to scuttling of the
frigate
November 2007 frigate scuttled and receives national and international
media coverage.
Customary research data at the artificial reef shows increase of fish species
and marine habitats
Future opportunities avail to utilise the fish species for customary use, and
continued marine research at the artificial reef, whilst earning an income