Uncover the 170 year history of Māori Wardens. From their 19th-century origins and challenges like urban migration, to their near-loss in the 70s, and Mātua Peter Walden's pivotal role in their revival.

If you have a story of the wardens doing some hi viz manaaki that you'd like to share with us, please get in touch at [email protected] - we'd love to hear them.

Thanks to Augie Fleras whose PhD thesis and associated work were invaluable in researching the history of Māori Wardens.

• Thesis: Fleras, A. (1980). A Descriptive Analysis of Maori Wardens in the Historical and Contemporary Context of New Zealand Society. Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
• Booklet: Fleras, A. (1980). From village runanga to the New Zealand Maori Wardens’ Association: A historical development of Maori wardens: A paper to be presented to the Maori wardens. Maori Studies Section, Dept. of Anthropology and Maori, Victoria University of Wellington.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details