Ma¯ori left behind as NZ space sector blasts off into future
American aerospace manufacturer Rocket Lab launched the first New Zealand-built satellite into space in August. But as the nation’s space sector grows, there are concerns Ma¯ori voices are being left behind.
Public consultation on the Government’s Aerospace Strategy and Space Policy Review concluded on Monday and has faced criticism for being too rushed for Ma¯ori to have meaningful input.
The consultation documents point towards the need for greater engagement with Ma¯ori on New Zealand’s space activities.
University of Canterbury pu¯kenga (lecturer) William Grant said New Zealand’s space sector could benefit from greater policy discussion and mana whenua input.
He pointed to light pollution as an issue that could disproportionately harm indigenous people, and risk future generations losing access to an ‘‘important repository of knowledge’’.
‘‘For Ma¯ori, we are in a period of reclamation. Colonisation has resulted in the degradation and subjugation of our ma¯tauranga and histories – including our relationship with celestial bodies,’’ he said.
‘‘We now have the opportunity to rebuild and redevelop our relationship with the night sky – however, owing to the international, national and local regulatory gaps surrounding outer space and light pollution, this opportunity is at risk of being lost to us.’’
Grant said it is imperative there is meaningful partnership with Ma¯ori in the drafting of New Zealand’s space policy.
‘‘We have made huge advancements in tino rangatiratanga at the national level, Matariki for example,’’ he said.
‘‘But what of this advancement when we can no longer see Puaka rising? We cannot observe Matariki and her children? Does this create a stronger obligation on the Crown to protect access to the night sky?’’
Dr Pauline Harris (Rongomaiwahine, Nga¯ti Rakaipaka, Nga¯ti Kahungunu) is an associate professor at Massey University’s School of Ma¯ori Knowledge and the chairperson of the Society for Ma¯ori Astronomy Research and Traditions.
She said the potential for Ma¯ori to engage in the aerospace sector needs to align with their educational, economic and cultural aspirations.
‘‘Ma¯ori have had a close relationship with space for millennia predating our arrival to Aotearoa,’’ she said.
‘‘Our relationship with the sun, moon and stars through Ma¯ori astronomy, maramataka and now with the establishment of Matariki shows the continual relationship Ma¯ori have had with space and the environment.’’
Harris said Ma¯ori need to be at the decision-making table and honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi to ensure that their values are upheld.