November 16, 2015
Rangiwewehi celebrate return of Taniwha Springs
Ngati Rangiwewehi has formally marked the return by Rotorua Lakes Council of Taniwha Springs, which was taken under the Public Works Act in 1966.
Pekehaua Puna Reserve Trust chair Louis Bidois says the iwi has mourned the loss of a significant taonga.
He says the springs represent the life force of the iwi, and placing a pump station over the top has been a cultural harm that runs deep.
Ngati Rangiwewehi wants the pumps removed so the spirit of Pekehaua – the taniwha who lived there – might return.
The council’s resource consent to take water from the spring expires in 2018.
Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick says the council and the iwi are talking about the future of the springs and looking at alternative water supply options.
She also wants to see the crown return the land it held on to at nearby Hamurana Springs, which is also subject to a water easement on behalf of the council.
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