He waka hourua e hoe tahi ana – A partnership moving forward together
Te Mana Whakahono ā Rohe is a significant mechanism that enables mana whenua and councils to work together in managing natural resources. For Ngāti Tūrangitukua, this partnership represents the recognition of their mana whakahaere and the unique relationship they hold with their whenua, wai, and taiao.
In April 2022, Ngāti Tūrangitukua and the Taupō District Council formalized this agreement, marking a new era of collaboration and co-governance. This partnership is grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring that Ngāti Tūrangitukua's values, aspirations, and mātauranga are at the forefront of resource management decisions.
Key Outcomes of the Partnership
Recognition of Mana Whenua: The agreement acknowledges the role of Ngāti Tūrangitukua as kaitiaki of their rohe, ensuring their voice is central to all resource management processes.
Shared Decision-Making: Te Mana Whakahono ā Rohe enables joint planning and decision-making between Ngāti Tūrangitukua and the Taupō District Council, particularly in areas like land use, water management, and environmental sustainability.
Cultural Sustainability: The partnership prioritizes mātauranga Māori, ensuring that resource management practices align with tikanga and uphold the mauri of the taiao.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Te Mana Whakahono ā Rohe creates a framework for genuine collaboration and mutual respect. It ensures that Ngāti Tūrangitukua's connection to their whenua and wai is honored while enabling the council to fulfill its statutory responsibilities in a way that aligns with the aspirations of mana whenua.
This agreement is a testament to the strength of partnerships when guided by aroha, respect, and a shared commitment to the health and well-being of the environment for future generations.
Ngāti Tūrangitukua's Commitment
Ngāti Tūrangitukua remains steadfast in their role as kaitiaki, ensuring the taonga of their rohe are protected and enhanced for the benefit of their people and all who call the Taupō region home.
He waka eke noa – we are all in this together.
The Tūrangi Co-Governance Committee - made up of an equal number of Ngāti Tūrangitukua and council appointees - is governing the implementation and fulfilling the purpose and functions as prescribed in the Mana Whakahono ā Rohe Agreement.
Mana Whakahono signing (L-R): Ngāti Turangatukua Māori Committee Chair Hine Mohi, Mayor David Trewavas, Ngāti Tūwharetoa Ariki Tā Tumu Te Heuheu, Taupō District Council CEO Gareth Green, Ngahana Hartley of the Waipapa 1A Māori Reservation, & Ngāti Tūrangitukua Charitable Trust Chair Lauren Fletcher.