Rangahau

If you would like to conduct research on one of the Tūpuna Maunga, you will need a research permit.

The Tūpuna Maunga Authority Research Policy defines research as ‘any activities on the Maunga such as

• the collection of physical samples (eg. soil, rock, plants);
• the monitoring of conditions over time;
• experiments; and
• any socially-focused studies that take place on the Maunga but fall outside the definition of an event.'

Research activities on the Tūpuna Maunga may only be undertaken by members of research and education institutions. The Tūpuna Maunga Authority is the decision-maker for all research permit applications. We endorse research projects which align with the Values for the Tūpuna Maunga outlined in the Integrated Management Plan.

Research permits may be subject to conditions (e.g. reporting requirements). These would be laid out in the permit.

Fees and scholarship

Successful research permit applications are subject to fees. You may be eligible for a full or partial fees waiver if your activity aligns with our approved project list. Our permit coordinator can provide fee estimates on enquiry.

Tūpuna Maunga Authority Research Scholarship

The Authority is offering an annual funding pool of $10,000 to support students who wish to undertake research on the Tūpuna Maunga. The funding application period for 2022 is now closed.

Applying for a research scholarship and/or permit 

1. Email our permit coordinator at [email protected]. They will contact you to discuss:
   • the feasibility of your study
   • which supporting documentation your application would require
   • research permit fees.
2. If you are applying for a scholarship, submit your application via SmartyGrants. Successful scholarship applicants will be awarded a research permit automatically.
3. If you are applying for a research permit alone, complete the application form and submit it to [email protected] with supporting documentation. Our permit coordinator will contact you within two working days to confirm receipt of your application and to give you an indication of processing time.

In every instance it is in your interests to submit your application as early as possible.  

Documents to supply with your application

It is important to provide all the requested information as part of your application, so that we can process it efficiently.