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March 20, 2026
region: Ngāti Manuhiri Calls for Rock-Pool Harvesting Ban and Unity Over Division
Dale Husband
Posted On March 20, 2026
Download AudioNgāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust is calling for a temporary ban on rock-pool harvesting, as concerns grow over pressure on coastal ecosystems and rising tensions within the community.
Chief executive Nicola MacDonald says the move is about protecting fragile marine environments while reinforcing a shared responsibility to care for coastal areas. The trust has been working to safeguard local biodiversity, with rock pools particularly vulnerable to over-harvesting and disturbance.
The call for restrictions comes amid increasing reports of conflict at beaches, including incidents where individuals have taken it upon themselves to confront others they believe are breaching rules. Ngāti Manuhiri is strongly condemning this behaviour, particularly where it has involved the racial profiling of Asian communities.
MacDonald says such actions are unacceptable and undermine the values of manaakitanga and kotahitanga. She is urging people to move away from blame and division, and instead focus on collective responsibility and education.
The trust’s position is that kaitiakitanga must be inclusive, grounded in respect for both the environment and each other. This includes ensuring that everyone who visits the coast understands the rules and the importance of protecting marine life, without resorting to confrontation or discrimination.
The proposed temporary ban is seen as a way to allow ecosystems time to recover while providing space for better public awareness and compliance with sustainable harvesting practices.
Ngāti Manuhiri is also reminding the public that beaches are shared spaces, and that protecting them requires cooperation across all communities. The message is clear that enforcement should be left to the appropriate authorities, not individuals acting independently.
As pressure on coastal resources continues to grow, the trust says the focus must remain on long-term sustainability, respectful behaviour, and ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and benefit from Aotearoa’s natural environment.
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