Overview

3.00pm Mihi whakatau Hata Temo, Office of Māori Development, University of Otago
Congress opening ceremony Mayor Jules Radich, Dunedin City Council Prof Jacinta Ruru, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Māori), University of Otago Prof Eleonora Cresto, DLMPST Representative Prof Marcos Cueto, President, DHST
4.00pm Plenary: He wai nō Ruawhetū | The flow of knowledge from the stars Chair: Angela Wanhalla Speaker: Victoria Campbell

The observation and identification of celestial bodies have been practiced since the establishment of ancient civilizations, shaping cultures, and deepening our understanding of the natural world. The application of astronomical knowledge is evident in timekeeping, seasonal changes, and navigation. Across the Pacific, celestial knowledge is widely celebrated, and in Aotearoa, the recent establishment of the Matariki public holiday highlights the value of indigenous knowledge and practices.

In Aotearoa, the corpus of indigenous astronomical knowledge varies among different iwi, reflecting regional variations in its application and interpretation. This session will focus on Southern Māori astronomical knowledge, exploring its uses, significance, and contemporary relevance.

Lead presenting author(s)