Alyssa Thomas

Alyssa’s research engages with the rangatahi of her hapū, Patuharakeke; with additional funding support from New Zealand Freshwater Sciences Society. Over the course of a three-day wānanga, Alyssa gained an insight into the aspirations of ngā rangatira mō apōpō, with particular regard to the management of Pukekauri dam, a local freshwater resource. Through whakapapa and whakawhanaungatanga, the rangatahi connected with te taiao and began/continued their journey of kaitiakitanga and tino rangatiratanga. Alyssa presents her research and findings of rangatahi visioning and aspirations for resource management in the rohe. Alyssa has recently completed a Master’s of Indigenous Studies at Te Herenga Waka/Victoria University Wellington, integrated with the Te Whakaheke o Te Wai project.