Taonga species

Freshwater Cultural Keystone (Taonga) Species such as tuna, kōura and kāeo/kākahi are central to the identity and wellbeing of many Māori communities throughout Āotearoa. For generations, these species have sustained communities and been vital in the transfer of customary practices and knowledge from one generation to the next.

What does science tell us about New Zealand cockles?

From scallop beds to trawl nets, a little bit of data science can make a big difference. Melissa Bray explains.

What does science tell us about New Zealand mullet?

What does science tell us about New Zealand's migratory galaxiids?

Alex Fear looks at the Cultural Keystones Species research programme, a research partnership that grew out of the vision of a Ngāti Hau kaumatua.

What does science tell us about New Zealand lamprey?

What does science tell us about New Zealand freshwater crayfish?

What does science tell us about New Zealand eels?

NIWA, through the MBIE-funded Cultural Keystone Species programme (2016-2020), have developed a series of iwi engagement booklets sharing science knowledge to support species management strategy.

Tiny, translucent eels may hold the answers to one of the fish world’s great mysteries. Zen Gregor investigates.

NIWA is leading a new six-year research project that seeks to increase our understanding of piharau/kanakana/lamprey, using Mātauranga Māori, social science and biophysical science approaches.