This pathway expressly recognises the kaitiaki role of whānau, hapū and iwi. It acknowledges that our history, institutions and systems have led to a loss of whenua and connection to the cultural practices associated with whenua, and that loss has created barriers to the expression of kaitiakitanga for whānau, hapū and iwi. The Predator Free 2050 kaupapa, and this pathway, provide an opportunity to help dismantle those barriers by designing projects that are led and delivered by whānau, hapū and iwi supporting them to be kaitiaki. It recognises that when the whenua thrives, so too will the people thrive.
In the near term, the steering group is supporting the other pathways to connect with whānau, hapū and iwi, ensuring they are active participants able to co-design Predator Free solutions for their whenua and taonga. In addition, the steering group will develop an action plan that draws on mātauranga to realise the Predator Free vision and the connection between people and te taiao (the environment). When available, it will be posted here for viewing.