A new research project at Tūhura Otago Museum will explore the southern cosmos through Kāi Tahu eyes.
The museum has partnered with Te Rūnanga o Moeraki for an 18-month astronomy project funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
The project is aimed at gathering knowledge on southern tātai arorangi (astronomy) and developing educational resources for schools and the general public.
Primary researcher Victoria Campbell was leading the project alongside museum director and astronomer Dr Ian Griffin, astronomy academic Prof Rangi Mātāmua and museum curator Dr Gerard O’Regan.
Ms Campbell previously worked as a general manager for Te Rūnanga o Moeraki and spent more than 10 years involved in Kāi Tahu immersion experiences and wānanga (educational seminars).
"I like to describe it as a cornerstone of our culture, of our practices.
"We articulate the world through genealogy, through whakapapa and personification."
The project was in its early stages, and eventually she hoped to provide learning opportunities that involved the wider public.
"I think it’s an opportunity for us to showcase our understanding of the world, how we find relevance in the world and the application of our knowledge systems," Ms Campbell said.
