May 30, 2021
Iwi partnership helps Rotorua navigate RMA rules
Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick says a Resource Management Act requirement to protect significant natural areas doesn’t need to be a source of conflict between councils and Māori landowners.
Iwi in Taitokerau are outraged at a proposal by the Far North District Council to give SNA status to 42 per cent of the district, meaning owners will need resource consent to develop or modify their land.
Ms Chadwick says her council worked in partnership with Te Arawa to consult the community and negotiate with affected landowners.
"I think having the partnership board has really helped us about working with the right landowner groupings. They certainly work with us much more closely. It hasn't had the ripple effect you are picking up in the far north but not here," she says.
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