Rate My Professor Dan Hikuroa

Dan Hikuroa is an Associate Professor in Māori Studies at Te Wānanga o Waipapa in the Faculty of Arts and Education at the University of Auckland, where he also serves as Assistant Dean in the Faculty of Arts and Education Administration. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of Auckland, awarded in 1996, a Postgraduate Diploma in Science from the same institution in 1999, and a PhD in Geology awarded in 2004. His research focuses on the integration of mātauranga Māori with Western science, Earth systems science, indigenous knowledge systems, climate change, natural hazards, and sustainability. Hikuroa has held previous appointments at the University of Auckland, including as Senior Lecturer in Māori Studies. In 2024, he received an award from the Royal Society Te Apārangi in recognition of his research blending mātauranga Māori and Western science. He serves as the Culture Commissioner for UNESCO New Zealand and is a member of Pou Herenga, the Māori Advisory to the Climate Change Commission. Hikuroa contributes to national and international research teams and advisory roles with government, communities, and philanthropic organizations.

Throughout his career, Hikuroa has lectured in areas including anthropology, geography, sustainability, environmental engineering, and business studies. His work emphasizes kaupapa Māori approaches to addressing environmental challenges and exploring the foundations of knowledge across indigenous and scientific paradigms. He is recognized internationally as an expert in weaving indigenous knowledge and science to support community aspirations and decision-making frameworks.