FAQ

Mohimohi Moana is a Māori-led nonprofit based in Whangaruru, Aotearoa New Zealand. We restore marine ecosystems, protect cultural knowledge, and grow the next generation of kaitiaki (guardians) through hands-on conservation, education, and community action.

Mohimohi means “to remember.” Our name is a call to remember who we are, where we come from, and how we live in right relationship with the moana (ocean).

A Maara Moana (Ocean Garden) is a one-hectare ocean space cared for by local hapū. It’s a living restoration site where native marine species are reintroduced, monitored, and protected. Each garden is built on mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) and designed to regenerate both ecosystem health and food sovereignty.

We are guided by a founding team of kaumatua, trustees, and Māori environmental leaders with deep ancestral ties to Whangaruru. Our leadership is grounded in kōrero (communication), titiro (observation), and whakarongo (listening).

This project is about collecting, protecting, and activating intergenerational knowledge about the marine world. It includes interviews, wānanga, and community storytelling to ensure traditional wisdom lives on and informs how we care for land and sea today.

We’re restoring both saltwater and freshwater systems through shellfish reintroduction, river cleanups, pest control, riparian planting, and community-led biodiversity monitoring. Our work connects land and sea — because when one thrives, so does the other.

Our programs are designed for tamariki and rangatahi (ages 8–18). We offer courses in water safety, snorkeling, and marine science through our Mobile Marine Science Hub, bringing the ocean to life in fun, safe, and culturally grounded ways.

Whether you're a local landowner, student, scientist, or policymaker, there’s a place for you. Join a restoration day, support riparian planting, contribute to research, or help us grow our education and marine infrastructure. Visit the Get In Touch page to learn more.

Mohimohi Moana is rooted in whakapapa, tikanga, and the lived wisdom of Māori communities. This is not just environmental work — it's cultural healing, community empowerment, and long-term transformation driven by those who belong to this place.

We are based in Whangaruru, on the northeast coast of Aotearoa. Our focus area includes the Whangaruru Harbour, Punaruku Awa, and surrounding forests, reefs, and islands sacred to our hapū.

Yes. We are a registered nonprofit working to raise funds for local-led environmental restoration, cultural recovery, and youth education. We rely on grants, donations, and partnerships to grow our impact.

Please visit our Get In Touch page to learn how you can contribute financially, share resources, or collaborate on aligned initiatives.