This thesis sets out to examine kaitiakitanga as a fundamental component of environmental management for iwi including the complexities and dynamics of the practice of kaitiakitanga within modern resource management in particular, the environmental and cultural management of a localised land and lake area in the Rotoiti Rotomā catchment. There are two essential foci: the first is iwi relationships with Crown agencies through the practices of kaitiakitanga and secondly is the relationship between this study and iwi’s position on cultural, social, environmental and economic sustainability. This thesis explores the Māori and Western world views, as well as their respective resource management attitudes and methods, using substantial literature research and semi structured interviews. The necessity of early iwi participation in a partnership approach with the local government in Waitangi, as well as the development of concepts and technology solutions that address cultural and spiritual issues, is also scrutinised in this study.