Reported by Te Huihui o Matariki Chi Huy Tran (he/him)
Taranaki Tūturu, Te iwi o Maruwharanui, Ngāti Maniapoto
Urchinomics Sees Opportunity in New Zealand's Kina Barren Problem
Netherlands-based company, Urchinomics, has set its sights on New Zealand's growing sea urchin problem. With similar issues in Japan, California, Canada, and Norway, caused by overfishing and climate change, Urchinomics sees potential. To tackle the kina barrens, they have appointed Maru Samuels as the in-country director for Aotearoa. Samuels, with Ngāi Te Rangi, Te Rarawa, and Ngāi Takoto heritage, aims to consult with coastal communities and introduce the concept of mass removal and fattening of skinny kina. This approach could help regenerate seaweed forests. Stay tuned for updates from the upcoming public hui in Awanui, called by Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones.
Moving Forward with Memory: The Ō-Rākau Site's Journey to Remembrance
Kiingitanga spokesperson advocates for Ō-Rākau battle site's return to descendants, honouring history, and healing the future. The Ō-Rākau Remembrance Bill, progressing through legislation, aims to transfer the historic site to its rightful guardians. The land, pivotal in the Waikato War, witnessed fierce resistance by iwi against British forces. Rahui Papa emphasises the importance of remembering ancestors' struggles without dwelling on past pain, advocating for a national memorial to acknowledge all who stood with Waikato and Kiingitanga.