Echoes of Whakapapa collection

This series explores the New Zealand native bush as more than a resource — it is a living entity deeply connected to our ancestors. In Māori culture, whakapapa is the foundation of identity, linking people not only to their human ancestors but also to the land, waters, and sky, reinforcing that humans are an integral part of the natural world, not separate from it.

Kaitiakitanga — the practice of guardianship, care, and protection of the environment — is a responsibility passed down through generations, honoring the legacy of our ancestors while ensuring the wellbeing of future ones. The whenua, awa, ngahere, and rangi are considered living, breathing entities, intrinsically tied to whakapapa. Trees, particularly ancient ones, are often seen as vessels of wisdom, holding the spirits of those who came before. Within Māori culture, there is a deep reverence for nature, as it is understood that our ancestors remain present in the environment—when we walk through a forest, we are engaging with those who came before us.

This series is inspired by Māori perspectives on whakapapa and kaitiakitanga. While I do not whakapapa Māori, growing up in Aotearoa and having Māori whānau has given me an appreciation for these values. I share this work with gratitude, acknowledging its origins and significance.