Rakiura Māori muttonbirders and researchers collaborated to build and test a computer-based decision support package to allow individual kaitiaki to choose optimal harvesting strategies on their own whānau’s ancestral birding ground. They tested whether or not the tool builds understanding of consequences of current harvesting levels for their mokopuna’s harvesting opportunities, and measured whether it changed both intended and observed harvesting behaviour. The ability of science and computer tools to be integrated into mātauranga and traditional harvest management was assessed. The prototype model has been shared with other iwi for guiding other customary harvests of taonga species.

Te Pōhā o te Tītī is a tool to help families keep track of muttonbirding, and looking after the manu. Visit the projects website where the application is available for download and manual available to guide you through its use. see http://www.titi.nz/