August 04, 2019
Arawa role shows Rotorua Council progress
Arapeta Tahana has been appointed to the role of Te Ahurei to guide Rotorua Lakes Council's relationship with Te Arawa.
Mr Tahana, from Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Makino, Tapuika, will start in October after completing two terms on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council representing the Okurei Māori constituency.
The role is an evolution of the kaitiaki ahurea Māori role held by Ngāti Whakaue kaumātua Monty Morrison.
Mr Tahana says it's reflection of the work that has been done to strengthen the relationship between the council and the iwi.
"I’m really pleased to be able to take on this role. I believe the council has moved a long way from where it was five years ago, it’s really genuine about its partnership with Te Arawa and it realises the benefit of having this strong relationship with Te Arawa and what it can bring to the community," he says.
One of the first challenges he expects is managing some of the issues around the city's new wastewater plant, which could include discharges into the lake which are opposed by many in the iwi.
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