Rata is a Kairangahau (Senior Researcher) at Kitson Consulting, which is a Kaupapa Māori led consultancy empowering indigenous knowledge in environmental science and conservation.

Rata holds a Masters in Marine Biology and a Post Graduate Certificate in Antarctic Studies.

Rata has a deep love and connection with the awa and moana, finding strength and inspiration in their presence. She cherishes every opportunity to be out on the moana and whenua with her whānau.

Raukūmara Pae Maunga is the largest iwi led restoration project in Aotearoa. It is our way of responding to the health of our ngahere, restoring the mana and mauri from the last standing native ngahere left in the north island from Maunga to Moana.

We are utilising every tool in our kete to ensure our mission is a success, leading the largest 1080 operation in the North Island, the most unique ungulate programme supported by deep engagement over a period of 8 years building iwi momentum and connecting our people back to our beloved Raukūmara.

Dr. Shannan Crow has spent nearly 20 years at NIWA, working across a wide array of freshwater research projects. His true passion, however, lies in the study of freshwater fish. Shannan has worked on eel fisheries management around the world, but his main focus is on tuna fisheries assessments with iwi. 

Shannan is passionate about sustainable fisheries and enjoys working closely with indigenous communities. When he’s not in the lab or out in the field, you’ll find him exploring the great outdoors and capturing landscapes with his camera. 

Kura Paul-Burke is the project leader for Te Wahapū o Waihī, Board Member at Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whakahemo and Professor of Marine Science – Mātai Moana at the University of Waikato.  

 Roana Bennett is the project co-ordinator for Te Wahapū o Waihī and the General Manager at Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whakaue ki Maketū. 

Natalya Gibson and Mahora Manuel-Hepi are uri of Ngāti Tūwharetoa and members of Ngā Taikura Taiao o Tūwharetoa.  

Natalya is the current Waitiaki Coordinator at the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, actioning the Section 33 powers transferred to the iwi in 2020.

Mahora is in her final year completing a Master of Science in Environmental Science degree at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington.  

Based in his hometown of Rotorua, Lucky is currently serving as the Matāuranga Māori Freshwater Co-ordinator for Tūhourangi, with a strong commitment to advocating for the health and wellbeing of the whenua and awa. He recently secured a two-year contract with the Te Arawa River Iwi Trust, marking his first role in Aotearoa. 

With a tohu in Mental Health and Community Services, Lucky’s focus is on supporting and advocating for vulnerable communities. He recognizes the deep connection between mental health and the health of our Taiao. The correlation between these sectors is complex, with some challenges being more intricate than others. As a kaitiaki, Lucky is passionate about exploring how he can contribute to the restoration and protection of our natural environment, while also enhancing the wellbeing of our people and the health of our rivers.