Kaitiakitanga – Guardianship and Conservation

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary related to the Māori concept of Kaitiakitanga, emphasizing notions of guardianship, spiritual beliefs, and environmental stewardship.

Kaitiakitanga

A Māori concept meaning guardianship and protection, it is a way of managing the environment based on the Māori world view.

Kaitiaki

A guardian, which can be a person or group responsible for caring for an area like a lake or forest.

Mana

Spiritual power or authority, often associated with the abundance and vitality of the natural world.

Tapu

Spiritual restriction or prohibition that can limit access to resources to protect their mana.

Mauri

Life force that must be protected within natural environments such as forests, rivers, and lakes.

Rāhui

A temporary prohibition on harvesting resources from a specific area to allow for regeneration.

Maramataka

The Māori lunar calendar used to guide agricultural activities such as planting and harvesting.

Te hunga tiaki

A term used by Te Arawa tribes that refers to a group with a common purpose and responsibility for guardianship.

Hapū

A sub-tribe or clan that may act as kaitiaki for specific natural areas.

Tangata whenua

Literally means 'people of the land'; refers to the tribal group with authority over a specific area.