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Yvonne Taura, Kairangahau Māori – Ecology

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Ngāiterangi, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Uenuku, Ngāti Tūwharetoa
Yvonne Taura

Yvonne Taura

I am a kairangahau Māori (researcher) in the Manaaki Taiao rōpū (Māori research team), based in the Hamilton office. I work on kaupapa-Māori led research to raise awareness of the importance of wetland restoration.

What was it that led you into this field?

I was always interested in learning about the environment and, more importantly through a Te Ao Māori lens. My uncles (kaumātua) gave me the confidence to pursue a career in environmental science alongside mātauranga Māori.

What did you study at university?

I studied a Bachelor of Environmental Studies at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi and a Master of Biological Science at Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato (University of Waikato). I am currently completing my doctoral studies at the University of Waikato, thanks to the support and a scholarship from Manaaki Whenua. My research focuses on exploring appropriate communication of mātauranga Māori and Māori-centered collaborative science research for Māori.

"I was always interested in learning about the environment and, more importantly through a Te Ao Māori lens."

Who inspires you?

Whānau, kaumātua, kaiako (teachers), tribal leaders and other community members who provide mātauranga Māori focused learning spaces to create a pathway into the science system with strong foundations in Māori-centred kaupapa all inspire me.

What exciting about the work you do?

In recent years, mātauranga Māori has been acknowledged and elevated within the sciences. This has provided exciting opportunities for kairangahau Māori to continue working alongside Māori communities in collaborative science research.

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