Exploring Synergies Between Māori Knowledge and Western Science on the Formation of Natural Colours

Abstract

Our work aims at developing a framework where traditional knowledge systems and scientific approaches and reasoning are mutually supportive to take into account realities of living with natural hazards and adapting to this environment. Whakarewarewa is an iconic centre of Māori culture and of geothermal features in the New Zealand that offers a unique opportunity to develop research with mutual benefits, providing insights into Māori understanding of frontier materials science and corroboration of historical knowledge. We will present our work on integrating related scientific data and Mātauranga-a-iwi to better understand the formation of natural colours of water and rocks at geothermal vents and deposits from geothermal waters. A Māori worldview traditionally saw life conducted within ‘tenets of sacred narratives’, which informed society on the natural environment. The blood from the arms of Ranginui dripped down on to Papa [the Earth, rocks], and hence is the horu [red oxide of iron], and the pukepoto [blue phosphate of iron], used today in painting. From a scientific perspective, a range of high-tech materials science analysis such as ion beam analysis and structural and surface spectroscopy are used to compile an information data set for the geothermal area at Whakarewarewa village. In particular, we used the world’s first new UV-Vis spectrophotometer equipment for simultaneously measuring absorption, extinction, and scattering spectra of cloudy solutions without the need for filtering or time-consuming sample preparation. Finally, attempts are made to align the mātauranga observations with the scientific data and recorded changes in Whakarewarewa geothermal area. This paper collaboration acknowledges a gateway of co discovery that can develop and unite minds across the discipline of science and engineering. This distinctive approach aims to increase MāorI research capability in unlocking the potential of indigenous knowledge, people and natural resources without compromising the integrity and tradition of each knowledge system.