Science need to attract more Maori

The stock of Maori working in science needs boosting.

That's the belief of Te Arawa Federation of Maori Authorities and Maori Research Institute research vice-chairman Tom Walters and several others.

However, that feeling should ease after the creation of an associate professor Maori economic development position at Waiariki Institute of Technology.

"We have enough lawyers, our medicine students are increasing, but our stock of scientists remains wanting," said Mr Walters, who, along with Institute chairman Malcolm Short, had input into the role Waiariki is recruiting for.

The kaupapa is to assist and support Maori economic development by leading and enhancing research activity across the institution, with a particular focus in the areas of tourism, geothermal, forestry and primary industries.

Mr Walters believes this is a necessary position for the community. "This gives our kids a chance to further study without the requirement of relocating away from home."

There are also plenty of projects across the role to research.

The institute is working on projects involving keeping New Zealand clean and green, clean lakes, waterways and healthy soil, environmental sciences, methane content in Lake Rotorua, including how to extract and use it; and goat farming.

"Once we succeed in achieving these we can expand into the primary sector on a bigger, better-prepared and experienced scale with not having to rely on consultants and advisers.

"That becomes the responsibility of our own through the process they will go through on the farm and with the associate professor of Maori development," said Mr Walters.

Waiariki acting chief executive Keith Ikin said his institute was committed to encouraging students and graduates to support the economic growth in the region.

"There is in excess of $1 billion of Maori assets within the region and the opportunities to develop primary industries, geothermal and tourism are immense," he said.

Interviews for the role are set for October and the successful candidate could be in place in November.