Abstract
Despite the presence of pekapeka in Māori narratives, wider knowledge of the mātauranga held around these threatened taonga remains limited. Given pekapeka are threatened and considered taonga by some, it is crucial to explore how Māori are connected to pekapeka, how Māori wish to strengthen this connection, and explore how ecological sciences and mātauranga around pekapeka can walk-side-by side. To explore the connection between pekapeka and Māori, I conducted interviews and wānanga with Māori community members and pekapeka researchers, recording their perspectives, aspirations and knowledge. I first analysed participants' aspirations for the research; these aspirations focused the second phase of the thematic analysis, evaluating insights and knowledge shared by participants. Both groups expressed a strong desire to benefit pekapeka through increased understanding of mātauranga anticipated from the research. Despite a historically frayed connection, contemporary kōrero (discussions) revealed a profound connection between Māori and pekapeka. Pekapeka were consistently referred to as a 'taonga', and participants voiced growing interests to deepen their connection to pekapeka. Participants shared thoughts around what tikanga should be considered when working with pekapeka, and I highlight this tikanga to guide future conservation efforts. My findings highlight the importance of fostering relationships between researchers and mana whenua to create comprehensive goals for ecological restoration, and the importance of ongoing opportunities to share kōrero to enhance and maintain mātauranga around species with cultural significance. I emphasise shared values/aspirations for pekapeka found amongst researchers and Māori community members as a step forward in addressing the complex challenges that arise around species conservation and ecological restoration.