Benefits shared as Whakatōhea mussel into future

Ōpōtiki-based iwi Whakatōhea are investing in the future with the launch yesterday of a new mussel barge.

Kukutai was built by Auckland firm McMullen and Wing, which was also responsible for building 1995 America’s Cup winning yacht Black Magic.

CEO Michael Eaglen says to increase the social returns from the project, his firm took on three young trainees from Ōpōtiki.

The trio are now considering entering formal trade apprenticeships.

The barge will service the offshore farm established by Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board subsidiary Whakatōhea Mussels.

Features include: a high-stability platform specifically for the exposed open ocean location of the Ōpōtiki mussel farm; comfortable interior conditions for farm workers; and a range of eco-focused features to minimise environmental impact and maximise end product quality.

Follow us on &

Copyright © 2018, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com

RELATED NEWS

New rules for whitebait protection No profit from misery says dry home doc Taranaki health providers consolidated