Public science celebrates century, from league strip to lifesaver
From taonga harakeke to forestry safety-wear inspired by a rugby league jersey, public science is celebrating a century of collaboration with industry and communities across New Zealand.
What’s at stake: Public science is being reshaped at a time when long term research still underpins New Zealand’s food, fibre, forestry and Māori economy opportunities.
Background: The centenary of DSIR highlights how public research has moved from practical industry fixes to the protection of taonga species, cultural practice and new bio based materials.
Main players: Rene Orchiston, Katarina Tawiri, Aroha Jones, Richard Parker, Manaaki Whenua, Scion, the Bioeconomy Science Institute, weavers, forestry workers and Māori researchers.
The origin story of New Zealand high vis clothing began, in part, with a retro Papanui Rugby League jersey.
Senior scientist Richard Parker played rugby league for the Papanui Tigers growing up in Christchurch and loved the club’s yellow, black and white strip.
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Key points
What’s at stake: Public science is being reshaped at a time when long term research still underpins New Zealand’s food, fibre, forestry and Māori economy opportunities.
Background: The centenary of DSIR highlights how public research has moved from practical industry fixes to the protection of taonga species, cultural practice and new bio based materials.
Main players: Rene Orchiston, Katarina Tawiri, Aroha Jones, Richard Parker, Manaaki Whenua, Scion, the Bioeconomy Science Institute, weavers, forestry workers and Māori researchers.
