The Karioi Report - Annual Report 2024

7 June, 2025

A landmark achievement in geoscience and cultural collaboration

Oliver McLeod and Diane Bradshaw at the launch of the Karioi monograph and map book on 7th September

The Karioi Report marks a significant milestone in geological research and intercultural collaboration, led by Dr Oliver McLeod and GNS Principal Investigator Diane Bradshaw (Ngāti Te Wehi, Ngāti Mahuta hapū of Waikato Tainui, Te Uri o Hau ki Te Rarawa). This groundbreaking study presents the first comprehensive geologic map of Karioi maunga, an extinct stratovolcano near Raglan in the Waikato region of Aotearoa New Zealand. The research draws upon over 30 years of meticulous field surveys, incorporating interviews with kaumātua, advanced petrology, aeromagnetic data and radiometric dating.

One of the report's key highlights is its 1:25,000 scale map, showcased on a high-resolution, hill-shaded LiDAR base, which documents traditional place names and pā sites contributed by Tainui kaumātua. This integration of mātauranga-a-hapū and geoscience reflects an interdisciplinary approach, demonstrating how cultural heritage and modern science can collaboratively deepen understanding. The companion monograph, featuring a foreword in Te Reo Māori, provides comprehensive notes on stratigraphy, volcanic activity, tectonics and visual aids such as photographs and geological sketches.

The launch of the Karioi monograph and map book on 7th September 2024 in Raglan celebrated the dedication of Diane and Oliver, and the involvement of Waikato Tainui mana whenua. Attended by local communities, this event highlighted the report's importance as an educational and resource management tool. Its findings not only enhance regional geological understanding but also support broader studies, including the future activity of the Auckland Volcanic Field and the Kawhia-Aotea ecosystem research.

The Karioi Report stands as a testament to the fusion of geoscientific inquiry and indigenous knowledge, ensuring that both perspectives contribute to the comprehensive story of the maunga and whakapapa of Karioi.