A digital platform connecting science, kaitiakitanga (guardianship and protection of the environment), and community-led environmental monitoring

The Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley is culturally and environmentally significant whenua (land), where geothermal activity sustains local ecosystems and iwi (Māori tribe) heritage. Working in partnership with Te Maiora Rurehe and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, DOTDOT designed and developed a digital data collection and visualization taupānga (web application) to support long-term environmental stewardship.

The platform enables guides, students, administrators, and visitors to record, manage, and share geothermal pool measurements—including temperature, pH, and narrative cultural knowledge—through mobile data collection and interactive maps. It empowers mana whenua in the preservation of local knowledge while providing a tool for environmental monitoring, science education, and cultural storytelling.

Objectives

The taupānga (web application) has been developed as a responsive web application with role-based access across user types. It is designed to:

• Enable regular data collection of geothermal readings via mobile devices.

• Preserve and share mātauranga Māori alongside scientific environmental data.

• Provide data visualization tools for analysis and reporting.

• Allow visitor engagement through a moderated public portal.

• Enable schools and students to participate in environmental monitoring.

• Ensure data sovereignty and controlled access by Te Arawa and Bay of Plenty partners.