A study led by Māori researchers from Unitec and AUT will explore the impacts of taiao-based activity on health and hauora (wellbeing). Unitec kaimahi and ākonga found out more about this research project at an information session held on Tuesday at Manaaki, Te Noho Kotahitanga marae.
The study, “Measuring the Transfer of Healthy Bacteria from Taiao-Based Activity”, is led by Associate Professor Isaac Warbrick (Ngāti Te Ata, Te Arawa, Ngā Puhi), Co-Director of Taupua Waiora Māori Research Centre at Auckland University of Technology, and Associate Professor Deb Heke, Director of Ngā Wai a Te Tūī Māori (Maori and Indigenous Research Centre) and Indigenous Research Centre at Unitec.
Specifically, the study looks at the potential microbial transfer that occurs during activities such as clearing and working in the pā harakeke, and weaving harakeke. From a Māori lens, the relationship between people and te taiao (environment) is understood to involve exchanges that support wellbeing. This research explores how microbiome science might help illuminate these interactions in new ways.
“This is a different kind of research than what we’re used to. We’re learning different skills. We know when we get in the taiao, the pa and the puna – this is not passive engagement. You’re always there to do something, there’s a relationship, to give and receive, and we’re looking to measure that transfer to us,” Associate Professor, Deb Heke explained.
“It just made sense to reconnect with te taiao,” adds Associate Professor Isaac Warbrick, who has a exercise science background.
“There’s a lot of western science that talks about how being in the environment is good for our mental wellbeing, but it’s also good from a physiological level. We don’t quite understand why that is. Although there is some research about the microbes and all these different bugs in the environment that get on us and improve our health, this is limited.”
“For me, as Māori, as indigenous people, we understand our connection to the environment and we should be leading this space because it’s this unseen connection between the environment and our physical health and wellbeing, as well as our wairua and culture. Getting out in the environment has all these benefits at different levels.”
In partnership with Ngā Kaitiaki rōpū, participants will be invited to take part in a manaaki whenua working bee and kōrero on tikanga Pā Harakeke on 29 May led by Kaitiaki-Taiao/lecturer, Hinewaimarama Reihana-White at Te Rangimārie Pā Harakeke.
This will be followed by a raranga workshop at Ngākau Māhaki or Puukenga on 26 June. Soil, water, and plant-surface samples will be collected alongside optional skin and/or nasal swabs to examine microbial transfer during taiao-based and indoor activities.