Kuku (mussel) restoration

The Awhi Mai Awhi Atu project was co-developed with hapū/iwi of Ōhiwa harbour. It was supported by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council and the other six Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy partners.

 

This research project was led by Dr Kura Paul-Burke (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Whakahemo) and brought together mātauranga Māori (knowledge), Western science and local kaitiakitanga to progress the recovery of the harbour’s once abundant green-lipped mussel (kūtai, kuku) beds.

 

This important project was running from prior to 2020 to June 2023. Currently, the Ōhiwa partners are considering further funding options. 

 

Awhi Mai Awhi Atu can be translated as 'Care for me and I will care for you. Embrace me and I will embrace you'. The project was part of the Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge. Learn more about what has been done, the research team and early signs of success here.

​

Read more about Kura Paul-Burke and her mātauranga Māori approach in the New Zealand Geographic.

​

​

​