April 28, 2023
Iwi says taihoa on Ruapehu rush plan
The iwi with mana over Mount Ruapehu says climate change and the environment need to be considered when decisions are made about commercial activities on the Maunga.
Ngati Rangi is pushing for a say in the decision on who should pick up the assets of skifield operator Ruapehu Alpline Lifts, which has been placed into voluntary liquidation.
Chair Whetu Moataane says Ngati Rangi has shared its environmenal plan with Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, which it has a co-governance agreement with, and with the Department of Conservation.
He says while the iwi is not in a position to contribute financially, it wants to ensure any decision takes into account the environmental state of the mountain – and possibly giving it a rest could be beneficial.
“I don’t think they need to rush just because the ski season’s around the corner. I think you just need to take soem time and have a solid and well-informed plan,” Mr Moataane says.
Ngati Rangi has no position as yet on a proposal by a group of lifetime ski pass holders to crowd fund to buy the ski field.
liquidaon.
Chair
operated whakapapa and Tūroa Skifields, Is in ‘Voluntary Administration with creditors ae preparing to Vote on a Plan for The Ski Fields early, Early Next Month.