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RA4 - Te Mana Motuhake a Ngā Kākano: The Sovereignty of Seeds

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In Aotearoa New Zealand, the preservation and protection of indigenous seeds is vital for maintaining biodiversity, cultural heritage, and food sovereignty. The project Te Mana Motuhake a ngā Kākano: The Sovereignty of Seeds was initiated to address these concerns, emphasising the importance of indigenous stewardship over seed resources.

Origins of the Research Project

2016

2017
NRT 

The project emerged from discussions within Māori communities about the need to safeguard traditional seed varieties and the associated mātauranga (knowledge) that has been passed down through generations. Concerns over the loss of indigenous plant species, the erosion of cultural practices related to cultivation, and the impacts of commercial seed production on biodiversity prompted the development of this initiative.

Testing the idea

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Developing 'Te Mana Motuhake a ngā Kākano'

Building upon the foundational principle of mana motuhake (self-determination), the project hypothesised that by reclaiming and exercising sovereignty over indigenous seeds, Māori communities could enhance food security, promote biodiversity, and strengthen cultural identity. The initiative aimed to create a framework where indigenous seeds are cultivated, preserved, and shared in accordance with tikanga Māori (Māori customs) and under the guardianship of local hapū and iwi to protect our biodiversity from existing and future plant pathogens and diseases. 

Te Mana Motuhake a ngā Kākano: The Sovereignty of Seeds was developed by Melanie Mark-Shadbolt and TTW researchers for the Oranga programme. It was led by TTW and given approximately 35% of the Oranga budget. 

The primary objectives of the project were: 

  1. Knowledge Revitalisation: Document and revitalise traditional cultivation practices, ensuring that mātauranga associated with myrtle and kauri seeds was maintained and transmitted.

  2. Seed Preservation: Collect, catalog, and preserve indigenous seed varieties to prevent their loss and ensure their availability for future generations.

  3. Community Empowerment: Empower Māori communities to manage their seed resources autonomously, reinforcing the principles of mana motuhake.

  4. Biodiversity Enhancement: Promote the cultivation of indigenous plant species to enhance ecological diversity and resilience.

Methodology 

To achieve these goals, the project employed the following methods: 

  • Community Engagement: Collaborated with local hapū and Iwi to identify and collect indigenous seed varieties, ensuring community involvement and ownership throughout the process.

  • Knowledge Documentation: Worked with kaumātua (elders) and knowledgeable practitioners to document traditional planting, harvesting, and storage practices, creating resources for education and transmission.

  • Seed Banks Establishment: Established community-managed seed banking drums to store and preserve collected seeds, utilising both traditional and modern storage techniques. Develop plans to establish a national seed facility for Māori to access and learn from. 

  • Educational Workshops: Conducted wānanga, webinars, hui etc. to share knowledge about seed cultivation, preservation, and the cultural significance of indigenous plants and seed banking practices. 

Outcomes / Outputs 

By focusing on the sovereignty of seeds, this project not only preserves valuable plant genetics but also reinforces cultural identity and supports the sustainable management of natural resources within Māori communities. 

Specifically, the project achieved several significant outcomes including: 

  • Enhanced Seed Sovereignty: Māori communities strengthened their control over indigenous seed resources, aligning with the principles of mana motuhake

  • Cultural Revitalization: The documentation and practice of traditional cultivation methods led to a resurgence of cultural practices and knowledge transmission.

  • Biodiversity Conservation: The preservation and cultivation of indigenous seeds contributed to increased biodiversity within local ecosystems.

  • Community Empowerment: Through active participation, communities gained skills and confidence in managing their seed resources, fostering greater self-reliance and resilience.

 

Case Studies / Examples

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Melanie

Mark-Shadbolt

Primary Investigator

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Dr Phoebe Fordyce

Project Support

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Marcus-Rongowhitiao

Postdoc | Research Assistant

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Subcontractors

TOA Architects

Terri Janke & Associates

Te Aroha Drummond (Trainer)

MSB, Ruth Bone

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Te Taiawatea Moko-Painting

Associate Investigator

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Researchers

Waitangi Wood

Aroha Mead

Mariella Marzano

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Kiri

Hurunui

Project Support

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Communities

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