Learn more about the Waka Hourua research model

Research Theme

Mobilising for Action was one of seven research themes of the Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, Ngā Rākau Taketake programme.  As a whole, this programme contributed to a deeper understanding about myrtle rust and kauri dieback disease, their impacts and their management in the ngahere/forest.

Mobilising for Action focused on the human dimensions of kauri dieback and myrtle rust.  The research explored the connections between people and the ngahere (forest), people and te taiao (the environment) and people and taonga species such as kauri and pohutukawa.

Research Focus

Key areas of research investigation included:

• How are people connecting to te taiao?

• What motivates people to care for taonga species?

• How can people be empowered to make a difference now and in the future, to ensure the well-being of te taiao for the coming generations?

Mobilising for Action recognised the important bodies of knowledge that are mātauranga Māori and Western science and the contributions these have both made to forest health.  For this reason we drew on the analogy of a waka hourua (double-hulled canoe) navigating across an ocean.

Research Expertise

The Mobilising for Action team consisted of researchers and practitioners who brought a diverse range of experience and methodological expertise.  Our specialists drew from a wide pool of national and international institutions and from a diverse range of applied practitioners.