He taonga tuku iho

This two-day event explored multidisciplinary approaches aimed at fortifying the resilience and resistance of productive ecosystems in the face of diverse biological threats driven by climate change.

Sessions delved into themes of conservation, invasion genomics – impacts and control, persisting pathogens, and the social science behind valuing landscapes.

Leading experts discussed the concept and application of Indigenous methodologies, intellectual property, and data sovereignty in research.

Whether early in their careers or seasoned researchers, attendees found sessions that explored what a career in bioprotection looks like in the current research climate.

In collaboration with Genomics Aotearoa and their Indigenous Genomics Platform, the event proudly showcased the power of holistic approaches that spanned ecological, molecular, Indigenous knowledge, and socioeconomic sciences within a cultural values framework.

The event highlighted how these comprehensive strategies offer fundamental solutions for the sustainability of the primary sector, integral to the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Programme | Day 1 | Thursday 31st August

Session 1:

Hungry for advice: breakfast, posters and career advice for a career in bioprotection

Organised by Dr Steve Wakelin, SCION

Session 2

Concept and application of indigenous methodologies, intellectual property and data sovereignty in research

Organised by Prof Amanda Black (Tuhoe, Whakatōhea, Te Whānau ā Apanui), Lincoln University

A panel discussion featuring

1. Linda Tuhiwai Smith, (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Porou, Tuhourangi)
2. Stacey Whitiora (Ngāti Mahuta ki te Hauāuru, Waikato)
3. Lynell Tuffery Huria (Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāruahine)
4. Melanie Mark Shadbolt, (Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, Ngāti Porou, Te Arawa, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tuwharetoa, Te Ātiawa)

Click here for information about speakers

Session 3:

Partnering with communities to conserve our taonga species

Organised by Dr Nathan Kenny, University of Otago

Session 4

Invasion genomics, impact and control

Organised by Prof Ian Dickie, University of Canterbury

Programme | Day 2 | Friday 1st September

Session 1

Valuing our landscapes

Organised by Ann Brower, University of Canterbury

Session 2

Microbiomes in landscape

Organised by Dr Hanareia Ehau-Taumaunu (Ngāti Uepōhatu, Ngāti Porou, Te Ātiawa, Te Whānau-a-Āpanui, Ngāpuhi), Plant & Food Research

Session 3

Preventing the persistence of pathogens and pests

Organised by Prof Matt Templeton, Plant & Food Research

Session 4

Tackling i4: integration, interdisciplinarity, implementation & impact

Organised by Dr Franca Buelow, University of Canterbury