Introducing...
Science Centres: Fisheries
Erina Watene has recently joined NIWA’s aquaculture team in Auckland.
Ko Tainui te waka
Ko Taupiri te maunga
Ko Waikato te awa
Ko Ngāti Māhanga me Ngāti Hine ōku hapū
Ko Te Papaorotu me Waikare ōku Marae
Ko Erina Watene tōku ingoa.
Erina with an albino eel.
Erina is Waikato born and bred, belongs to Ngati Mahanga and Ngati Hine hapū, and is affiliated to Te Papaorotu and Waikare Marae.
Erina, who has an MSc (Hons) in chemistry from Waikato University, recently completed her PhD on eel fisheries with NIWA (Hamilton) and the University of Auckland. In her new job she will be developing economically viable, sustainable, and culturally acceptable techniques for the culture of eels. In particular, she will focus on saltwater eel culture, which is thought to be a more cost-effective approach to eel aquaculture. Much of this research will take place at Bream Bay Aquaculture Park, NIWA’s new, state-of-the-art aquaculture facility.
Erina’s previous work experience includes 2 years working at Hopuhopu for the Tainui Māori Trust Board on resource consent and environmental issues. She will build on this experience while working within Te Kūwaha (NIWA’s Māori Development Unit). Ultimately we envisage Erina will take on a greater role in directing and coordinating aquaculture research and development, particularly in developing opportunities for Maori in aquaculture and fisheries.