Vision Mātauranga
Te Tiri o te Moana, Te Tiri o te Tangata
This whakataukī, gifted by Mataia Keepa, acknowledges the sacred relationship between Antarctica (Te Tiri o te Moana), the primordial Ātua (gods), people (tangata), and knowledge (Mātauranga).
The word "tiri", which means to plant or to sow, invokes the foundational relationship between Ranginui and Papatūānuku. It symbolises the way in which both science and Mātauranga Māori, when cultivated in and through the Antarctic environment, can contribute to sustaining planetary and human wellbeing.
Our Goals
A bi-cultural perspective on Te Ao (the world) supports the development of innovative and diverse opportunities to better the future of New Zealand.
The Antarctic Science Platform (ASP) values the role Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) can play in improving our understanding of pressing issues facing the Antarctic, such as climate change and ecosystem resilience. The Platform is an opportunity to grow strong partnerships with iwi/Māori, to increase Māori representation and to integrate Te Ao Māori (Māori world views) in important and high performing areas of research and international relationships.
The ASP are delighted to partner with the Kāhui Māori (Māori Council), from the Deep South Challenge, to support and provide advice in relation to the Platform’s Vision Mātauranga whāinga (goals), which are to:
• foster a shared understanding of research priorities and limitations;
• build capacity, capability and diversity;
• improve science excellence through Mātauranga Māori; and
• increase Māori participation in Antarctic research.
Our karakia
Written by Delane Luke, Kaiārahi Rangahau Māori, this karakia acknowledges Antarctica, Te Tiri o te Moana, as both a place and a taonga (treasure) and affirms our deep connection to it as a people. It references the atua (gods) that preside over Antarctica and shape its dynamic and sacred environment.
The karakia also speaks to the mahi we carry out on the ice and the reciprocal relationship we hold with this unique place. In its final lines, the karakia captures the profound experiences of those who journey south, acknowledging the conditions, challenges, and immense privilege of engaging with the whenua (land), hau (essence) and matao (cold) of Antarctica.
While this karakia was gifted to the Antarctic Science Platform, it is offered openly for use by all whānau, researchers and explorers of Te Tiri o te Moana (Antarctica). It may be used as an opening or closing karakia for a hui. It is appropriate to use this karakia if your hui or kaupapa is about Antarctica, if it is not then it is best to use another karakia.
Like the whakataukī that guides us, this karakia represents a significant milestone in our Vision Mātauranga journey—one where mātauranga Māori and Antarctic science are brought together with respect, mana and leadership.
