Lessons from governing and managing community-led research

The Revitalise Te Taiao programme, a community-led research initiative, aimed to create lasting changes in land use, management, and market focus to regenerate the environment and communities. The programme conducted research to develop evidence-based examples of how agribusinesses and communities can revitalise te taiao. The impact was multifaceted, including community empowerment, economic and environmental benefits, knowledge sharing, and growth.

Despite its success, the programme faced challenges in upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, integrating mātauranga Māori and science, and empowering community-led research. The programme leadership developed lessons for other research organisations and funders. These recommendations are grouped under four themes:

1. Te ao Māori: The programme was rooted in te ao Māori and te taiao, emphasising interconnectedness and aiming for collective prosperity. It fostered a culture of trust, reflection, learning, and dialogue.
2. People: The programme highlighted the need for a diverse team with a range of skills, a commitment to interdependence, and culturally sensitive processes.
3. Leadership: The programme emphasised eco-centric leadership, prioritising collective goals, understanding one’s relation to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, empowering mana whenua, and aligning practices with the vision.
4. Project management: The programme integrated cultural values and practices into project management, prioritising cultural responsibilities, and adopting a peoplecentred management style.