For centuries, Maōri communities living in Aotearoa* New Zealand practiced Kaitiakitanga: a unique cultural system founded on the belief that people are guardians of nature and have a responsibility to protect and maintain the lands, rivers and coastlines for future generations. This Indigenous worldview guided how the land was managed, how fish were caught, crops were planted and wildlife was protected.
The Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance, meaning “Collective Action for our Nature”, is a top-of-the-South Island alliance of 15 iwi and government partners based on the philosophy of kaitiakitanga. The Alliance works collectively to restore wetlands, promote nature connection, control pest plants, animals and insects, plant native species, and conduct restoration activities in a way that is based on love and respect for the land.
Read more about the Kotahitanga mo te Taiao Alliance.
Feature photo: At Onetagua/ Farewell Spit actions are being taken to free the area of wild pigs and allow native species to flourish. Source: Pest Free Onetahua