Alyssa’s research engages with the rangatahi (youth) of her hapū (tribal group), Patuharakeke; with additional funding support from New Zealand Freshwater Sciences Society as the recipient of He Manawā ā Whenua scholarship 2022. Patuharakeke hapū lands are primarily in Takahiwai, south of Whangārei harbour in Northland New Zealand. Over the course of a three-day wānanga (education forum), Alyssa gained an insight into the aspirations of ngā rangatira mō apōpō, with particular regard to the management of Pukekauri dam, a local freshwater resource. Through whakapapa (genealogy) and whakawhanaungatanga (building relationships), the rangatahi connected with te taiao (the environment) and developed their journey of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and tino rangatiratanga (self-determination). Alyssa presents her research and findings of rangatahi visioning and aspirations for resource management in the rohe (area). Alyssa has recently completed a Master’s of Indigenous Studies at Te Herenga Waka/Victoria University Wellington, integrated with the Te Whakaheke o Te Wai project.