“Woven together by those who came before me, I am an Indigenous scholar of Aotearoa Māori, Cook Islands Māori and Pākehā descent. My ancestors were way-finders; explorers who thought and moved innovatively, going beyond their known horizons, and transforming the lives of themselves and their communities in the process. My approach to research is inspired by their legacy.”

Natasha Tassell-Matamua, PhD

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Ko Natasha tōku ingoa.

No Rarotonga mai i tōku māmā.

No Niu Tireni mai i tōku pāpā.

E va’ine Kuki Āirani ē Niu Tireni au.

Previously an Associate Professor at an academic institution in Aotearoa New Zealand, I established as an independent researcher in 2026 to more readily pursue research that has value for humanity.

I have more than two decades of experience conducting psycho-social and eco-psychological research. Since 2009, I have focussed specifically on exploring exceptional experiences of consciousness, pioneering the field of near-death studies in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

My research is also focussed on exploring, developing, and implementing Indigenous psychologies and using Indigenous-informed methodologies. Having lived in a variety of communities, including the Cook Islands, Singapore, Curacao, and Guernsey, has provided a useful foundation for reflecting on cultural diversity and its influences.

I continue to contribute my expertise to professional bodies and academic journals that have relevance to these research areas.