Geo-Spatial Mapping & Policy Analyst Researcher (Experienced & Qualified)

**Purpose of the Role**

The Geo-Spatial Mapping & Policy Analyst Researcher provides expert analysis, data modelling, and spatial intelligence to support kaupapa Māori, land management, environmental protection, and Indigenous rights. The role combines advanced GIS mapping technologies with in-depth policy research and analysis, producing evidence-based recommendations for governance, resource planning, and legal submissions.

This role ensures that spatial data and policy analysis uphold tikanga Māori, protect Māori land and taonga, and inform decisions in alignment with He Whakaputanga 1835, Te Tiriti o Waitangi 1840, and Tino Rangatiratanga.

**Key Responsibilities**

*Geo-Spatial Mapping & Data Analysis*

• Develop, maintain, and manage spatial databases (land, water, flora, fauna, cultural heritage sites).
• Analyse historical and contemporary maps, including Māori land blocks, whenua rāhui, wāhi tapu, and reclaimed lands.
• Produce geospatial visualisations, maps, and dashboards for governance and public reporting.
• Integrate data from Crown records, LINZ, Māori Land Court, and local councils.
• Ensure mapping respects Māori data sovereignty (Te Mana Raraunga principles).

*Policy Research & Analysis*

• Analyse laws, policies, and legislation impacting Māori land, resources, and intellectual property.
• Prepare policy briefs, submissions, and reports for Trustees, Māori Land Court, Waitangi Tribunal, and government consultations.
• Provide comparative research of Māori rights under domestic and international frameworks (UNDRIP, Law of Nations, ILO, Paris Agreement, etc.).
• Support legal teams in drafting evidence for claims and litigation (e.g., Wai 262).

*Environmental & Resource Management*

• Provide spatial and policy analysis on environmental impacts, climate change, biodiversity, and conservation.
• Map freshwater waterways, harbours, shellfish beds, and native flora/fauna distributions.
• Support hapū and iwi in resource management planning under RMA reforms and conservation law.
• Provide technical evidence for environmental disputes, consents, and impact assessments.
• Hapū & Iwi Engagement
• Conduct wānanga, workshops, and consultations with whānau, hapū, and iwi on land and resource issues.
• Collect and validate mātauranga Māori and oral histories to incorporate into maps and policy reports.
• Support intergenerational transfer of geospatial knowledge and research skills.
• Ensure research outputs reflect tikanga and uphold mana motuhake.

*Strategic Support for Governance & Legal Processes*

• Prepare geospatial and policy annexes for legal submissions to the Māori Land Court, Waitangi Tribunal, and international courts.
• Provide Trustees with risk assessments and evidence-based recommendations.
• Contribute to strategic planning, capacity building, and funding applications.
• Align outputs with tino rangatiratanga and the long-term aspirations of hapū and iwi.

**Key Relationships**

Internal: Trust Chairperson /CEO and Policy Research Analysis

**Skills & Experience**

Essential

• Advanced qualification in Geography, GIS, Spatial Science, Policy Analysis, or related discipline.
• 5+ years’ experience in geospatial mapping and/or policy analysis.
• Proven expertise in GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS, MapInfo, or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993, RMA, conservation law, and environmental policy.
• Demonstrated experience with Māori land and cultural mapping.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Understanding of tikanga Māori, He Whakaputanga, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and Tino Rangatiratanga.

Desirable

• Experience with Wai 262 and Indigenous IP/data sovereignty.
• Familiarity with blockchain, AI, and advanced data modelling tools.
• Experience presenting evidence in legal or tribunal settings.
• Bilingual ability (Te Reo Māori and English).
• Experience engaging directly with hapū and iwi on land or environmental issues.

**Commitment**

• Volunteer position with flexibility for meetings and site visits (if required)
• Uphold tikanga Māori (Maori customs and values) and intergenerational responsibilities.
• Ensure all outputs strengthen Māori sovereignty and environmental stewardship.
• Strategic Outcomes of the Role
• Deliver robust geospatial and policy evidence for legal, governance, and environmental decision-making.
• Strengthen Māori data sovereignty and control of spatial information.
• Provide evidence-based strategies for Māori land and resource management.
• Support tino rangatiratanga by ensuring spatial and policy intelligence is embedded in all kaupapa.

**Equal Volunteer Employment Opportunity**

Tiaki Taonga Trust Wai 262 is an equal volunteer employer. All qualified persons, regardless of ethnic origin, gender, age, or belief, are encouraged to apply.