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Kawakawa is a versatile shrub recognised for its heart-shaped leaves and smell. Traditionally, its leaves are used to make infusions for digestive issues and help alleviate cold and flu symptoms. The leaves can also be applied to the skin to treat minor wounds and rashes. This plant holds cultural significance in Maori healing practices, promoting resilience and connection to our LAND.

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Known as flax, harakeke is a tall plant with sword-like leaves. Maori use gel-like sap to soothe burns and skin irritations, while the leaves are woven into mats and baskets. Strands of harakeke can be used to make clothing and ropes. This flax embodies the Maori beliefs of sustainability, as every part of the plant is helpful in traditional practices.

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Manuka is a small tree known for its fragrant flowers and leaves. Traditionally, its leaves are brewed into tea for respiratory problems, while its oil is used for its antiseptic properties, helping with skin infections. Manuka honey, from its flowers, is also used for medical benefits. This plant represents a deep cultural connection to how EARTH connects to healing.

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Commonly known as a cabbage tree, Ti Kouka features long, narrow leaves and an easily identified trunk. Its leaves are used in weaving, while the edible roots can be roasted. Ti Kouka is often associated with resilience, representing a source of food for sustenance and materials for crafting.

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The iconic Pohutukawa tree is famous for its beautiful red flowers and is often referred to as New Zealand's Christmas tree. Its wood is valuable for carving and building, while the flowers can be used to make colourful dyes. In MAORI CULTURE, Pohutukawa symbolises strength and beauty, often associated with coastal landscapes and WHANAU? Gatherings.

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TEK is the body of knowledge, practices, and beliefs about the environment, which has developed over generations. In MAORI CULTURE, this knowledge covers understanding the local ecosystem, plant uses and our connection to the land. TEK is essential in kaitiaki, guardianship, and responsibility for our land. Maori use native plants for many things, from food and medicine to building supplies. These uses combine ecological, social and spiritual dimensions, showing how interconnected all living things are. As modern lifestyles threaten these practices, there is a push to revitalise and share Maori WAYS. This revival doesn't just strengthen cultural identity; it also contributes to modern environmental management.

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Kauri is a majestic tree known for its size and long life, thriving in many Aotearoa forests. Its wood is prized for building and carving, while its sap has been used in waterproofing. Kauri holds a significant place in Maori mythology, symbolising strength and the interconnectedness of life. Conservation efforts around Kauri show the importance of kaitiakitange.

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Matauranga is a knowledge system that covers traditions, beliefs, and practices in the natural world. It reflects a worldview where humans, plants, and animals coexist harmoniously. This knowledge is passed down through the generations, and the views of respect for the environment are taught. Kaitiakitanga is our guardianship of and responsibilities to the planet. Maori believe that as we take from the earth, we must give back and care for our world as it does for us! These concepts are also crucial for modern sustainability efforts, providing resource management strategies and helping to protect biodiversity.

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Huarahi - Ways, practices

Tikanga - Culture

Whenua - Land

Taiao - Earth

Tangata - People

Aotearoa - New Zealand

Kaitiakitanga - Guardianship

Matauranga - Knowledge

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McAllister, T. G., Beggs, J. R., Ogilvie, S. C., Kirikiri, R., Black, A., & Wehi, P. M. (2019). Kua takoto te mānuka: mātauranga Māori in New Zealand ecology. New Zealand Ecological Society.