Tree planting underlines closer relationship between NCBID and Maori
From left to right: Murray Sherwin
(Chief Executive, MAF), June Jackson
(Kaumatua, Te Atiawa), Sam Jackson
(Kaumatua, Te Atiawa, bending down)
Mark Te One (Te Puni Kokiri),
and George Ria (Director MAF
Maori Strategy)
The development of the National Centre for Biosecurity and Infectious Disease at Wallaceville (NCBID-Wallaceville) has provided an excellent opportunity for MAF Biosecurity New Zealand to strengthen its relationship further with local Māori.
Last year, traditional practices led by Te Atiawa kaumatua Sam Jackson, saw the removal of five totara trees from the site of the new NCBID-Wallaceville, Upper Hutt, in preparation for construction. The totara trees were gifted to the Wellington Tenths Trust who intend working within the local community to use the wood for carving. Currently the trees are weathering.
On 9 May 2007, Sam Jackson led a traditional ceremony to replant on the site. At the replanting ceremony Sam Jackson congratulated the four agencies for their foresight in establishing NCBID. He spoke of the importance to Māori of being able to easily access the sort of research that will come out of NCBID in order to support their responsibilities as kaitiaki (guardians/custodians) of the land, sea and waterways within their rohe (region). Discussions after the ceremony also highlighted the opportunities for shared learning between the various science disciplines currently represented by NCBID and mātuaranga Māori me ona tikanga (Māori knowledge and its associated cultural practices) with a view to stimulating further innovation.
"During the process of establishing the National Centre for Biosecurity and Infectious Disease a good relationship has been built up between the NCBID partners and Te Atiawa," says Hugh Davies, Director, Investigation and Diagnostic Centres for MAF Biosecurity New Zealand.
"I have been delighted with Te Atiawa's involvement in the removal, replanting and blessing of the totara trees at NCBID and look forward to continuing our relationship in the future."
As construction on the Wallaceville site nears completion, Sam and June Jackson, along with other local Māori representatives, will be invited to return and take part in the formal opening ceremony for the centre.
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Page last updated: 30 April 2008