Mission: To protect, preserve, and promote the Indigenous knowledge, cultural rights, and natural resources of Māori, with a particular focus on the taonga species and mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) impacted by the Wai 262 flora and fauna claim. The Trust seeks to safeguard Māori sovereignty over their traditional knowledge and natural resources in the face of modern challenges such as intellectual property rights, biopiracy, and environmental degradation.
Vision: A future where the rights of Māori Tino Rangatiratanga (self-determination) and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over their flora, fauna, and intellectual property are recognized, protected, and respected, both within Aotearoa and globally. The Trust envisions a harmonious balance between cultural heritage, biodiversity, and modern development, ensuring the survival of mātauranga Māori for future generations.
Core Values:
Tino Rangatiratanga - Upholding the sovereignty and authority of Māori over their natural resources, culture, and knowledge systems.
Kaitiakitanga - Exercising guardianship and stewardship over the environment, ensuring sustainable use of flora, fauna, and other taonga species.
Whanaungatanga - Strengthening relationships and collaborations within Māori and Non- Māori communities and with external stakeholders to support collective well-being.
Manaakitanga - Demonstrating care, respect, and hospitality towards people, land, and resources in all engagements.
Tikanga Māori - Upholding Māori lores, customs, and traditions in the governance and decision-making processes of the Trust.
Sustainability - Ensuring that the protection of flora, fauna, and cultural knowledge supports both ecological and cultural sustainability.
