Experiences and interactions with mangroves (Mānawa) in Aotearoa New Zealand

Mangroves are valued by communities worldwide for ecosystem services or benefits such as coastal protection, creating habitats and providing resources. They can help mitigate climate-change impacts by reducing the impacts of wave action and promoting coastline expansion by trapping sediment. Additionally, mangroves contribute to national emissions-reduction targets by acting as natural carbon sinks. However, they can also present some challenges, such as restricting access to waterways and being associated with poor water quality and unpleasant odours due to decaying organic matter and stagnant water. Despite the well-documented ecosystem-services’ contribution and cultural significance of tropical mangroves, temperate mangroves have been less studied. To better understand how people interact with and perceive these ecosystems, we administered a survey with respondents from the North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, where mangroves (known locally as mānawa) are found. The aim was to gather insights into their experiences and views on the benefits and drawbacks of mangroves. The results reveal diverse opinions on the importance of mangrove systems. Concepts from te ao Māori (the Māori world view), such as kaitiakitanga (guardianship), whakapapa (genealogy and connection), utu (balance and reciprocity), mauri (life energy and spirit) and mātauranga (knowledge and understanding), emerged prominently in respondents' perspectives. Key themes included advocating for balance between people and the environment (kaitiakitanga and utu), utilising traditional knowledge to promote sustainable practices (mātauranga and mauri), and recognising the spiritual and relational significance of natural environments (whakapapa). These insights underscore the importance of integrating cultural and local knowledge to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of mangrove management efforts (auths)