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A Cultural Health Index for Streams and Waterways

Foreword

Acknowledgements

Executive Summary

1 Introduction

2 An Iwi Perspective on Freshwater and Its Management

3 Study Design

4 Calculating the Cultural Health Index

5 Applying the Cultural Health Index

6 Combining Cultural and Scientific Perspectives

7 Conclusion

Glossary

References

Appendix 1: Draft River Health Assessment Form

Appendix 2: Data Collected at Five Sites

Appendix 3: Recommended Recording Form for Future Use

Appendix 4: Questions Asked

6 Combining Cultural and Scientific Perspectives

Two distinct knowledge bases were combined in this study to develop a resource management tool that has the potential to significantly enhance the effectiveness of freshwater management practice. Participation in a collaborative process has enabled the project team to identify the advantages and benefits of such an approach, and we have taken the opportunity to outline these below.

• Neither Ngai Tahu nor the Stream Team could have developed the CHI on their own. One of the major advantages of this project was the way the two knowledge systems complemented each other. Linking Western scientific design and analytical skills and cultural knowledge has been shown to be an innovative way of developing a potentially effective tool for iwi.
• It helps to think laterally about the organisations that can assist in the realisation of iwi goals. Ngai Tahu, if asked at the start of the project to identify a 'partner' that could help advance their management aspirations, would have concentrated on fostering relationships with the regional councils. However, developing the CHI required cultural knowledge and scientific skills rather than management skills. The need for collaboration with resource managers comes at the implementation stage - after the tool has been developed. This highlights the need to clearly identify the skills required for the task rather than assuming the agency with responsibility for the area will be able to provide them.
• Ensuring the project team has the mandate to work with iwi is a prime consideration. Of equal importance is the need to have individuals within the project team who can operate within the Western scientific domain. This project benefited from having personnel who could ensure entry to either domain - cultural or scientific.
• Respecting the values and beliefs of each party is fundamental. For instance, when respect of sensitive tribal knowledge was demonstrated, mutual trust and respect grew, which enhanced relationships.
• A shared commitment to stream health and to the kaupapa was a key underlying component of the collaboration.
• Capacity building is a logical consequence of projects such as this, in that it:
  • enabled rangatahi and pakeke to learn from kaumatua
  • enabled iwi members and scientists to increase their understanding of each other's values and perspectives
  • sought to build linkages between cultural and Western scientific perspectives.
• The relationship between the CHI and Western health measures confirmed that iwi members are an invaluable resource and their knowledge can add a positive element of major significance to resource management.
• For any new resource management tool to be accepted, the research design on which it is based needs to be comprehensive and robust. Seeking advice on methodology and design helps to develop the foundations for a collaborative relationship.
• Validation is necessary before broadening the application of a tool.

Photograph 9: A headwater stream in the Taieri Catchment. The CHI score was B-0 / 1.38 / 3.86.

Photograph 10: A site on the Waipori River - a reach that is regulated by the dams upstream. The CHI score was A-0 / 2.38 / 3.81.

Photograph 11: The team having morning tea in the field.

Photograph 12: Two of our team (rangatahi and kaumatua) discussing a site in the Upper Taieri.