Māori prosperity through agrifood innovation: Success stories in Aotearoa New Zealand's food and fibre sector

Abstract

We will discuss mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) from a recent survey asking Māori which plants, vegetables, and rākau rongoā (medicinal plants) are significant to them, and some of their current uses today. We will explain the significant role that insects play in Māori culture as food, medicine, and cultural narratives. Finally, we'll discuss how revitalising potential future food sources like insects benefits from Indigenous knowledge and the care that should be taken when integrating it into Western science.