Winiata Marae launches first marae-based water science lab with support from Downer

19/05/2025

In the rural heart of Taihape, a powerful collaboration has taken shape, one that blends Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) with Western science to empower local rangatahi (youth) and protect the awa (rivers) for generations to come.

Winiata Marae, in partnership with Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hinemanu and Ngāti Paki, Waipapa Taumata Rau (University of Auckland), and Downer, has officially opened Ki Tua – the country’s first marae-based water science laboratory. 

Named at the Friday, May 16 dawn ceremony, Ki Tua means looking ahead, a fitting symbol for a kaupapa (principal) that’s rooted in cultural identity, environmental stewardship, and future-focused learning. 

The newly installed lab, housed in a 60-square-metre portacom building gifted and transported to site by Downer’s Infrastructure delivery and cranes team - will be a learning hub for mana whenua (local Māori), local Kaiako (teachers), and rangatahi (youth). It’s a space where ancestral knowledge and scientific practice meet to better understand and care for the Mangaone, Hautapu and Rangitīkei rivers. 

Downer is proud to have played a part in making this vision a reality. “Seeing the Downer New Zealand tohu alongside the University’s logo on the lab is a proud reminder of what’s possible when iwi, academia and industry work together,” says Craig West, Downer Country Lead. “This is what meaningful partnership looks like, sharing knowledge, empowering future kaitiaki (guardian’s), and delivering outcomes that matter for the whenua (land) and the community.” 

Visitors to the opening event had the chance to witness the lab in action, with e-coli water testing demonstrations led by University of Auckland staff and students, using water samples brought by guests from the surrounding rohe (region). 

The project was made possible with support from the Ministry for the Environment, Horizons Regional Council, Rangitīkei District Council, local schools and water advocacy groups, and through funding from MBIE’s Unlocking Curious Minds initiative. 

Associate Professor Doug Wilson, from the Faculty of Engineering and Design, says the lab is a shining example of Kotahitanga (unity) in practice: “Our unique partnership with Winiata Marae and Downer is helping to provide water testing equipment, STEM education, and training that we hope will continue for years to come. Ki Tua (Looking Ahead) is where Mātauranga Māori (Māori Knowledge) meets Western science – and it’s all about working together to protect the livelihood of this region.” 

This mahi (Work) represents more than just a facility, it’s a legacy project made possible by deep collaboration, shared vision, and enduring relationships. Downer is proud to support initiatives that honour the environment, uplift communities, and build capability in partnership with iwi.