traditional knowledge conference 2008 te tatau pounamu

associated with contemporary technologies in a traditional framework (Mead, 2003). There are a hugevariety of views among Māori on biotechnologies. These views are not static and can be shifted ifconcerns are satisfied (Te Momo, 2007). For example, new technologies are more likely to be adoptedby Māori if they are viewed as having benefits that outweigh perceived risks, will not harm futuregenerations and will benefit communities and not just researchers and government agencies (Roberts &Fairweather, 2004; Te Momo, 2007).Cautious and thoughtful risk taking is not new to Māori. When Maui (Polynesian heroic character)fished up Aotearoa he ventured into new, deep water and used traditional knowledge and karakia(prayers) to safely bring forth a new land full of opportunities and possibilities for his people. In morerecent times, Māori have generally been without the luxury of full access to either technological ortraditional knowledge which has inhibited their ability to make informed and well considered decisionson contemporary risks (Roberts & Fairweather, 2004). In this hui, we sought to encourage informationgathering, thoughtful reflection and open discussion of the risks inherent in harnessing the potential ofnew and emerging technologies for Māori.We sought a number of outcomes from this hui. First and foremost, the hui served as a trial toestablish a forum for Māori to learn about genetic and nanotechnologies. The hui also sought to provideboth Māori and researchers with a chance to discuss openly and honestly the implications andopportunities of new technologies for Māori without the pressure or burden of a consultationrequirement. Often Māori and researchers engage to meet funding or regulatory requirements, or wheremilestone deadlines have led to poorly conceived expectations. This hui allowed participants to discussissues in an environment that was free from these issues. Finally, the hui provided an opportunity forrelationship development between iwi representatives and reseachers and for each to learn about theroles and responsibilities of their respective organizations and communities.Who Participated in the Hui?The hui brought together scientists working in biotechnology and nanotechnology with the NationalMāori Network (Network) of New Zealand’s Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA NewZealand). The Network comprises individuals charged with addressing and managing resource andenvironmental issues on behalf of their iwi, hapū (clan), or whānau (family).The hui was organized by ERMA New Zealand, and jointly sponsored by the Allan Wilson Centrefor Molecular Ecology and Evolution (AWC) and the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences(GNS Science). This marks the first time that ERMA New Zealand has invited research agencies tojointly host their hui. The invitation was largely motivated by a desire to facilitate the establishment ofgood relationships between researchers in these fields and Māori because such relationships are crucialto the success of ERMA New Zealand’s legislative decision-making. The Hazardous Substances andNew Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 requires ERMA New Zealand to consider risks, costs and benefitsfrom any application made under the Act to the environment, public health, relationship of Māori to theenvironment, interests of the community generally and the economy. Obtaining sufficient informationabout the relationship of Māori to the environment, and thus ERMA New Zealand’s ability to makeinformed decisions, requires a free flow of relevant knowledge and information between parties to theapplication.Partnering with the AWC and GNS Science provided the chance to nurture relationshipdevelopment as well as provide network participants with access to technical and research expertise inthe fields of biotechnology (for example, genetics) and nanotechnology. Most of the information givenat the hui on genetic research and modification was provided by AWC presenters, whilst researchersfrom GNS Science provided information on new and emerging nanotechnologies.ERMA New Zealand’s National Māori NetworkThe Network was established in 2003 as a result of the Royal Commission on Genetic Modification. Inits response to the Royal Commission report, the Government directed ERMA New Zealand to“improve the participation of Māori in the development of research programmes” that might lead to theneed for applications to be made under the HSNO Act (including genetic modification). The Network249