Initial Consultation: Environmental Plan Development Moana Whenua

An environmental plan is crucial for iwi Māori as it aligns with our cultural values, guardianship (kaitiakitanga), and deep connection to our land (whenua). For iwi Māori, the environment is not just a resource but a taonga (treasure) that holds spiritual, cultural, and ancestral significance. Developing an environmental plan allows iwi to protect and restore ecosystems, ensuring sustainability for future generations.

An environmental strategy also enables iwi Māori to actively participate in resource management, in line with their rights under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Treaty of Waitangi. It also supports Māori-driven solutions to challenges like climate change, pollution, and habitat loss.

By incorporating traditional knowledge, our Matauranga Māori alongside modern scientific methods, environmental plans serve as holistic frameworks that reflect iwi values, empower local communities, and enhance biodiversity protection.

In addition, environmental plans strengthen i...