Rākau

The term "rākau" refers to a tree. But what does a tree signify? What constitutes its structure? How does it grow? What role does it play in its ecosystem? How can we utilize it both in its living state and after it has fallen? The symbiotic relationship between a tree and the land is vital.

Breaking down "rākau" reveals layers of meaning. "R" stands for "Rā," the Māori word for sun, which is essential for growth; without sunlight, photosynthesis cannot occur. "Aka," meaning vine or roots, signifies how roots draw water to nourish the tree, also providing it with stability. The "U" symbolizes firmness, akin to a tree's strong foundation, while "ā" reflects nurturing aspects, akin to the sustenance provided by Papatūānuku, our Earth Mother.

This single word intertwines my connection to the tree and the larger ecosystem. It's amazing how much depth is contained within just one term!

What if scientific inquiry were as straightforward as this? What if it embraced curiosity and questions as pathways to understanding? Imagine a world where Te Reo Māori was the medium through which science was taught and practiced.

During my involvement in the Pounamu online game, which coincided with the Transit of Venus forum in Tūranga nui a Kiwa, Gisborne in 2012, I pondered these questions. The game, set in 2022, envisioned a future where science and technology are integral parts of everyday life, encouraging participants to share their visions through brief forecasts.

I was intrigued to observe the discussions that would arise. While Māori recognize that science is embedded within Te Reo Māori, convincing others of this notion can be challenging. My intention was to spark dialogue and share different viewpoints, which indeed led to some surprising reactions.

The beauty of Te Reo Māori lies in its simplicity. It allows us to engage with nature through the inquisitive minds of our children, affirming that their questions hold significance and could potentially lead to groundbreaking changes in science.

I recall a meaningful exchange with a retired Pākehā gentleman who reached out to me after the forum. Our conversations about Te Reo Māori and the challenges faced by New Zealanders opened doors to understanding diverse perspectives. It’s essential that we foster such discussions to drive change.

Change is a gradual process, and initiatives like Pounamu present excellent platforms for dialogue. Agreement isn't necessary; rather, the goal is to find common ground and appreciate differing viewpoints.

So, where does this lead? My aspiration is for the Māori worldview to gain recognition within the scientific community—not as an ancillary component, but as a legitimate field of study, similar to biology, chemistry, and physics.

The knowledge is abundant, but I worry for our Māori children and others who struggle within the current educational framework. Science must be made accessible, catering to various learning styles. It should be visual, creative, tactile, and aural, allowing learners to take charge of their educational journey.