February 18, 2013
Iwi get say on Hauraki Gulf plan
The chair of the Auckland Independent Māori Statutory Board says a new oversight body for the Hauraki Gulf gives iwi a chance to have a real say on what's done in the seas around the region.
The 16-member steering group will include eight iwi representatives.
Its main task is to develop a Hauraki Gulf /Tikapa Moana Marine Spatial Plan.
David Taipari says the involvement of iwi who have had an involvement with the region for centuries should help resolve the current mess, where oversight is split between the Hauraki and Auckland councils.
“It's crazy; it’s the one piece of water that washes up on many shores. But for a long time, one council is quiet strong on aqua culture and the likes. The Auckland Council, who has for many years, has promoted alot of recreational stuff, so those two activities at times are not compatible. I think it’s a very positive move myself”.
David Taipari says the right iwi representatives will be chosen from the 26 iwi with an interest in the gulf.
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