This Arowhānui paper, part of Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga’s (NPM’s) Te Arotahi policy paper series, is an evidence synthesis designed for policy analysts. It draws on 20 years of NPM climate change research to inform decision-making that reflects te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) and supports flourishing Māori economies, environments, and communities. Māori investment in climate research benefits all New Zealanders, providing new scientific insights that contribute to stronger solutions that are uniquely effective for Aotearoa New Zealand.
Context
Climate change impacts Māori specifically due to historical, cultural, geographic and socioeconomic factors, and will exacerbate many of the stresses and inequities already faced by Māori. Climate initiatives and policies that take a one-size-fits-all approach will not adequately address the specific needs and contexts of Māori communities. Targeted, equity-based approaches in partnership with Māori communities are required.
Research has assessed the specific climate change risks facing whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori businesses. The report He Huringa Āhuarangi, He Huringa Ao: A Changing Climate, A Changing World (Awatere, 2021) shows that Māori wellbeing across four domains will be moderately impacted by 2050: he kura Taiao (living treasures); whakatipu rawa (Māori enterprise); he oranga tāngata (healthy people); ahurea Māori, tikanga Māori (Māori culture, values and principles).