Traditional values, modern world

Wakatū undertakes traditional activities in contemporary ways, such as producing crops and harvesting seafood. We are an organisation with a conscience that operates in holistic and sustainable ways for the benefit of our current and future owners.

An understanding of the traditional Māori relationship with the natural world is important when considering how modern Māori organisations such as Wakatū view the environment and role within it. 

The close relationship to the natural world is at the heart of our culture and identity. This drives our pursuit of finding sustainable ways to make the most of our natural resources responsibly. 

Physical and spiritual sustenance 

Our natural environment is not only viewed as a resource but a vital taonga (treasure) to be protected, and as a source of collective identity. Land provides not only physical, but also spiritual sustenance.

Over many centuries we have developed meaningful ways of interacting with our environment, and have a profound understanding of natural resource conservation.  Our ethic is based on principles of respect and sustainability. These principles are inherent in the values underpinning our organisation today.