In a world flooded with conflicting COVID-19 information, this NZASE resource empowers students to critically assess the truthfulness of online content. Through a structured activity, learners evaluate misleading headlines, reflect on emotional triggers, and apply fact-checking strategies to discern credible sources from misinformation. Designed to enhance digital literacy, it encourages thoughtful sharing and responsible online […]
Read MoreIndigenous perspectives on gene editing: Māori viewpoints on genetic modification
This article summarises for students a paper by scientists from the University of Waikato, and Plant and Food Research. Image: CRISPR-Cas9 National Human Genome Research Institute CC
Read MoreSurgery Researcher | Jamie-Lee Rahiri
Dr. Jamie-Lee Rahiri is a Māori surgeon and researcher dedicated to improving surgical care for Māori communities. Her research focuses on addressing disparities in bariatric and hernia surgery, emphasising the need for culturally safe practices and equitable access to healthcare. As a senior surgical registrar in Te Tai Rāwhiti, Dr. Rahiri is also the founder […]
Read MoreGeologist | Dan Hikuroa
Curious how ancient Māori knowledge and modern geology can come together to better protect our land and waterways? This profile delves into Dr Dan Hikuroa’s pioneering work—blending pūrākau, maramataka, and scientific research to restore mauri, manage natural hazards, and champion community-led environmental strategies. Image: Dan Hikuroa with an aluminium core tube at Rangitoto ki te […]
Read MoreNutrition Researcher | Lisa Te Morenga
Nutrition meets innovation—discover how Dr Lisa Te Morenga’s expertise in high-fibre, high-protein diets and systematic reviews has shaped global health guidelines and empowered Māori and Pasifika communities through community-driven research. This profile illuminates a scientist whose work blends rigorous evidence with cultural intentionality—perfect for anyone curious about the intersection of nutrition, equity, and scientific method. […]
Read MoreAstophysicist | Pauline Harris
Dr Pauline Harris is a pioneering astrophysicist who bridges the cosmos and te ao Māori. From her early fascination with space to her groundbreaking work in high-energy astrophysics and Māori astronomy, she is redefining how we understand the universe. As the current chair of the Society for Māori Astronomy Research and Traditions (SMART), Dr Harris […]
Read MoreBiotechnology Researcher | Palatasa Havea MNZM
From struggling in school on the Tongan island of Vavaʻu to becoming a pioneering food technologist and Massey University’s Dean of Pacific, Palatasa “Tasa” Havea’s journey is one of resilience and scientific innovation. This profile delves into his path from a factory worker to a senior research scientist at Fonterra, highlighting his groundbreaking work with […]
Read MoreComets heading towards Earth
Comets are back in the spotlight, with Comet Swan (C/2020 F8) approaching Earth and Comet ATLAS (C/2019 Y4) breaking apart as it nears the Sun. The article also explains comet composition, orbits, and discoveries from missions like Giotto and Rosetta, written by NZASE Science Communicator Mike Stone. Image: Comet Atlas breaks up NASA, ESA, STScI, […]
Read MoreHealth Scientist | Matire Louise Ngarongoa Harwood
Dr Matire Harwood shares how kaupapa Māori research and clinical practice can address health inequities and improve outcomes for Māori communities. Her insights highlight the power of combining evidence-based science with cultural knowledge to shape a fairer health system.
Read MoreOrganic Chemist | Hemi Cumming
Hemi Cumming, hailing from Gisborne and holding iwi affiliations with Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Toa, and Ngāti Koata, is an organic chemist whose PhD work included synthesising a cancer-fighting compound from Fiordland marine sponge, and who now advances microcapsule technology and Māori-centered biochemistry at Plant & Food Research. His work blends kaupapa Māori […]
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