A name grounded in mātauranga Māori, reflecting Earth Sciences New Zealand’s role in observing, understanding and sharing knowledge of the natural world. Te whatukura o te ao tūroa is an honorific expression traditionally used for a Ruanuku, the principal expert or leader within a house of learning dedicated to understanding the natural world. It speaks to deep knowledge, careful observation and the responsibility to bring together many sources of understanding in service of others. Te Whatu Ao is a condensed form of this phrase, carrying its essence forward in a name that remains layered, adaptable and deeply connected to the natural world.
A layered name
Te Whatu Ao is an intentionally layered name, carrying connected meanings across scientific disciplines, environmental domains and ways of knowing.
We acknowledge with gratitude the expert advisory panel and contributors who supported this naming process, bringing deep knowledge of te ao Māori, mātauranga and the natural world. Their guidance helped shape a name that reflects both scientific purpose and cultural meaning.
Marcus Winter was commissioned to create a series of original sand artworks for the launch of Te Whatu Ao. Together, these works interpret the many meanings of the gifted name, forming a visual narrative that accompanies its story.
