Ngā Rongo Kōrero
News and Views
View our latest news, media releases, newsletters and event updates. Hear from our commissioners, UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leaders, and our collaborating agencies and organisations. Read our latest updates or delve into the past.
In late February, UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leaders Saeyavan Sitsabesan and Isaac Morunga, hosted a stall as part of SeaMERC Day which was hosted by the Sir Peter Blake Marine Education and Recreation Centre, in Auckland.
The event brought together the local community, ocean advocates and the future kaitiaki of our marine ecosystems to celebrate the ocean and explore practical ways to support marine sustainability.
The event brought together the local community, ocean advocates and the future kaitiaki of our marine ecosystems to celebrate the ocean and explore practical ways to support marine sustainability.
The New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO has appointed two new members to its UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leaders rōpū. They are Ryn Peni Matenga and Zana Monaghan.
They join current members Madiha Ali, Mary Ieremia-Allan, Tara Shepherd and Wesley Tanuvasa. Saeyavan Sitsabesan has been appointed as our Special Advisor Youth, leading our 2026 UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leader rōpū.
They join current members Madiha Ali, Mary Ieremia-Allan, Tara Shepherd and Wesley Tanuvasa. Saeyavan Sitsabesan has been appointed as our Special Advisor Youth, leading our 2026 UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leader rōpū.
Mahsa brings exceptional expertise in artificial intelligence, digital futures, and technology leadership. Her deep experience across AI, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion will play a vital role in advancing the National Commission’s work across Aotearoa New Zealand.
“We’re thrilled to have Mahsa join our National Commission whānau. Her wealth of experience and insight will significantly strengthen our collective efforts. Mahsa’s leadership and deep commitment to her field make her an invaluable addition to our team,” says National Commission Secretary General, Vicki Soanes.
“We’re thrilled to have Mahsa join our National Commission whānau. Her wealth of experience and insight will significantly strengthen our collective efforts. Mahsa’s leadership and deep commitment to her field make her an invaluable addition to our team,” says National Commission Secretary General, Vicki Soanes.
UNESCO Aotearoa Youth Leader Tara Shepherd shares her insights and takeaways from the 2025 Adaptations Future Conference.
Adaptation Futures 2025, now in its eighth year, is the flagship conference of the World Adaptation Science Programme (WASP). This year, Ōtautahi Christchurch had the privilege of welcoming more than 1,800 attendees from over 90 countries, giving the city a chance to showcase its unique blend of natural harmony, innovation, and resilient post-earthquake recovery.
A wide range of professionals, practitioners, academics, technical experts, and organisational representatives convened to not only discuss but genuinely listen. Across workshops and panels, kōrero was grounded in community and partnership, creating a space where co-creation felt intentional and empowered. Participants were encouraged to value Indigenous knowledge alongside academic principles, a powerful reminder that the most effective adaptation pathways are those built on unity and shared understanding.
Adaptation Futures 2025, now in its eighth year, is the flagship conference of the World Adaptation Science Programme (WASP). This year, Ōtautahi Christchurch had the privilege of welcoming more than 1,800 attendees from over 90 countries, giving the city a chance to showcase its unique blend of natural harmony, innovation, and resilient post-earthquake recovery.
A wide range of professionals, practitioners, academics, technical experts, and organisational representatives convened to not only discuss but genuinely listen. Across workshops and panels, kōrero was grounded in community and partnership, creating a space where co-creation felt intentional and empowered. Participants were encouraged to value Indigenous knowledge alongside academic principles, a powerful reminder that the most effective adaptation pathways are those built on unity and shared understanding.
