This paper explores the role of Māori in enhancing Māori food security through revitalising traditional kai (food) gathering places and practices. The researchers undertook a narrative literature review of peer-reviewed and grey literature, which revealed a range of activities that are available for improving food security for Māori through the revitalising of traditional kai. Māori are now significant players in New Zealand’s fishing industry, and are developing their horticultural resources. Gardening initiatives have also grown considerably in Māori communities. Enabling factors include: the return of traditional kai resources by the Crown, and successful pursuit by Māori of the legal rights to develop them; development of Māori models of governance; government policy around Māori economic development and healthy eating; and Māori leadership on the issue. Remaining barriers to revitalising traditional kai include: tensions between Government and Māori goals and models of resource management; economic pressures resulting in severely depleted fishing stocks; and pollution of marine and freshwater fish.
