Rotorua Geothermal System Review
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) are currently undertaking a review of all geothermal provisions relating to the Rotorua Geothermal System.
We want to ensure that you are aware of this process, to advise you of the planned Tūhourangi Tribal Authority response, and to offer support to Hapū in engaging with this process.
All policies relating to the Rotorua Geothermal System currently sit within the Rotorua Geothermal Plan and the Regional Natural Resources Plan. This review will include and combine all geothermal provisions into the RNRP. It will also:
Review and monitor effectiveness of current planning provisions
Review the Councils' understanding of geothermal
Identify community values
Develop system management plans
Weigh up different management options and their costs and benefits
The Rotorua Geothermal System Management Plan (SMP) which details the proposed changes has been released, and BOPRC are receiving feedback until 8 December 2023. The feedback will then be considered by a joint panel of Councilors and haukāinga representatives before the SMP is adopted by Council in 2024.
The haukāinga rōpū relates to the three pā under Te Ahi Kaa Roa, including Whakarewarewa and Ngāpuna. Our own Corey Ruha has been involved in the review process as part of this arrangement.
It is important that we are part of informing these policies as they directly relate to our Geothermal taonga, to ensure they give effect to customary interests in the first instance. As such, Tūhourangi Tribal Authority are drafting feedback to the proposed changes which will be circulated for feedback from Hapū and uri by Monday 27 November before it is submitted. This submission seeks to support and compliment the values and aspirations that have already been shared by our haukāinga rōpū throughout the review process.
We would also like to offer support to Hapū in providing their own feedback if they wish to do so. A submission template, as well as our draft and final submission will be provided. If you would like further support from TTA we strongly encourage you to get in touch to discuss what this may look like.
Further information
BOPRC Geothermal Plan Change and feedback process: https://www.boprc.govt.nz/environment/geothermal
Draft consultation document: https://atlas.boprc.govt.nz/api/v1/edms/document/A4458886/content
Ngā Wai Ariki o Rotorua He Kohikohinga: https://atlas.boprc.govt.nz/api/v1/edms/document/A3907905/content
Te Tūhura Nui - register now
We've heard you e te iwi, the upcoming 'Tūhura Nui - Amazing Race' on Saturday 2 December is now open to our taiohi 5-16yrs.
Register by Sunday 26 November if you want your team name printed on the official merch: register here.
More information will be added to the event page on Facebook, so make sure you're following along there and keeping an eye out on the stories for hints and kura huna
📍 Te Pūtake o Tawa
📅 Saturday 2 Decemer
⏰ 8:30am Registration and Briefing
If you have any pātai please comment, DM, or email annie@tuhourangi.iwi.nz
Mana Whenua Academy
Building on the foundation and mahi of establishing a hub - including space for Tūhourangi-owned pakihi - in 2020, unveiling Pou Whenua in 2021, the marae for our Tūhourangi Whānau Day in 2022, Te Pūtake o Tawa is now the hub for our Mana Whenua Academy for 2023.
The Mana Whenua Academy is a kaupapa to strengthen Tūhourangi connections to our own whenua, with the use of mountain bikes.
The inaugural Mana Whenua Academy cohort had their first wānanga yesterday and will continue to meet regularly through September, October and November. This has been with the support of multiple Tūhourangi-owned businesses, Rotorua community collaborations and whānau expertise who have come together to bring a long-awaited vision to life.
Rangitihi Pene sharing whakapapa and historical kōrero about the area
There are over 160km of trails in the forest that shelters Tūhourangi and Ngāti Whakaue whenua, which entice and welcome thousands of manuhiri each month from Rotorua, across Aotearoa and around the world to ride and experience them. The Mana Whenua Academy looks to develop a pathway for more and more of the people enjoying the ngahere and tracks can trace their whakapapa to the whenua and feel comfortable out there.
If you’d like to learn more about the Mana Whenua or to support, please contact hana@tuhourangi.iwi.nz.
Ngā Hararei-ā-Kura, school holidays: Tūhourangi Edition
We’ve put together a list of activities for whānau (and everyone) to help with the upcoming school holidays - Tūhourangi edition!
The places mentioned in our list are either:
on Tūhourangi whenua (lands)
have businesses owned by Tūhourangi uri (descendants) on them
are owned by Tūhourangi Tribal Authority - therefore, free for Tūhourangi uri to visit!
For further details please DM on our Facebook or instagram or contact admin@tuhourangi.iwi.nz
GM Role - Waimangu Volcanic Valley
Our tāonga, Waimangu Volcanic Valley, is seeking a new General Manager to grow the tourism business while maintaining the environmental uniqueness that makes Waimangu so special.
This is a rare opportunity for the right person to take up the role of kaitiaki for Waimangu.
Please share this link with whānau and friends who you think would be interested in this role.
Unveiling of Tūhourangi artworks at Te Pūtake o Tawa
PĀNUI PĀPĀHO - Rotorua Lakes Council | Te hura i nga pou whenua o Tūhourangi - Unveiling of Tūhourangi artworks at Te Pūtake o Tawa
On the morning of Saturday, 30 October five tāonga (artworks) were unveiled at Te Pūtake o Tawa in Rotorua in accordance with Tūhourangi protocol, tā i te kawa. Officiating tohunga, Mataia Keepa of Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao conducted the proceedings.
Watu Mihinui, of Tūhourangi Tribal Authority, says “Tūhourangi acknowledges CNI Iwi Holdings Limited and Rotorua Lakes Council for allowing us to participate in this segment of the Whakarewarewa Forest Development project, and the powers at the time for the prudent investment that has enabled Nga Pou Whenua o Tūhourangi to be created at Te Pūtake o Tawa.”
The installation of the taonga, which is part of the Whakarewarewa Forest Development project, provides the ability to share kōrero (stories) of tūpuna (ancestors) that are important to Tūhourangi. Te Pūtake o Tawa has now become a place where the public and Tūhourangi descendants can learn about this whakapapa.
The local artists, who have been designing and creating these pieces over the past year, were selected by Tūhourangi and include a mix of both established and up-and-coming artists.
Watu Mihinui says Tūhourangi appreciates the opportunity to share their kōrero of events and ancestors that are central to present and future generations.
“We are sharing our whakapapa through Nga Pou Whenua o Tūhourangi, the Land Markers of Tūhourangi.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to exhibit five examples of Tūhourangi brilliance, flair, technique, skill and courage required to attempt the different media in these creations.
“The five artists are direct descendants of the principal ancestor portrayed at Te Pūtake o Tawa, the Tūhourangi chief - Umukaria, father of Wāhiao and Hinemoa, who are also portrayed here. The other taonga are of Kataore, the pet taniwha that roamed these hills and te kēti, a laser-cut tāniko design.”
Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick acknowledges the partnerships that have allowed this project to go ahead and applauds the artists for their exceptional work.
“Again this is an exceptional demonstration of partnership, between Council, mana whenua, CNI Iwi Holdings Limited and central government’s regional economic development and investment unit, Kānoa – REDIU, along with the support of Timberlands, that has enabled this aspect of the Whakarewarewa Forest Development to go ahead.
“Establishing a cultural foundation at Te Pūtake o Tawa, and throughout the forest, has always been a key component of this development and the unveiling of the taonga today really brings to life this very special place.
“Not only do we have a new forest hub and an additional access point to the forest, but we now have this significant story telling element which will be of huge interest to both locals and manuhiri.
“The artworks are spectacular and I commend and thank the artists for their phenomenal efforts to create these unique pieces that help tell the history and stories of the surrounding forest and wider district. We are so lucky to have this local talent and very privileged to be able to showcase it in our recreational spaces.
“I encourage everyone to visit Te Pūtake o Tawa to see these pieces for yourself, and learn about this special place and those that were here before us,” says Mayor Chadwick.
Te Pūtake o Tawa Tāonga
KĒTI TĀNIKO
Artist: Denise Morgan-Koia – Tūhourangi, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Tainui
This taonga created by Denise Morgan-Koia, using sheet steel, is inspired by the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao (tribe of Whakarewarewa) Kapa Haka tāniko pattern.
The laser-cut design in the gate is inspired by the tāniko pattern used in the costumes of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao kapa haka (Māori performing arts group), was designed in the early 1980's.
The gateway represents the rich cultural history of the Tūhourangi people who are mana whenua for this land and, when open, symbolises welcoming arms to all manuhiri (people from other lands) visiting Te Pūtake o Tawa.
The gate has a simple matt black colour to allow the beauty of the natural surroundings to come through the cut-out pieces of the design. The triangular and diamond shapes represent niho taniwha (shark teeth). The angular lines represent Aramoana (pathway of the sea), and signify the migration of the Te Arawa vessel, which carried early settlers to Aotearoa.
UMUKARIA (Chief)
Artist: Tukiri Tini - Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Hinekura, Tainui, Ngāi Tahu
This tāonga depicts Umukaria, a great chief of the Tūhourangi tribe, who lived on the eastern shores of Lake Rotorua at Hinemoa Point six hundred years ago.
Artist, Tukiri Tini, has chosen the traditional form of toi whakairo (art of wood carving) to carve the four metre-tall tōtara.
One day Umukaria was invited to a meeting of chiefs at Motutawa on Rotokākahi (Green Lake). He thought the purpose was to put aside differences and try to establish peace among the tribes.
Umukaria and a small group made their way to Motutawa, but were surprised in an ambush and killed. Their bodies were laid together in a pile and that place became known as Te Pūkainga – the place where the dead were piled up. Umukaria’s head was later found in a cave at Lake Tarawera.
It was later discovered that the killing of Umukaria and his group was in response to his son-in-law, Tūtānekai, taking the lives of two brothers from that area.
Wāhiao, son of Umukaria, avenged the death of his father by leading the Tūhourangi people to victory in battle, including conquering Motutawa. To this day the island remains part of the Tūhourangi tribal estate.
WĀHIAO (Son of Umukaria)
Artist: Iwi Le Comte - Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Rangiteaorere, Ngāti Tarāwhai, Rongomaiwahine, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairoa, Ngāi Tuhoe
This tāonga is a modern interpretation of the Tūhourangi warlord, Wāhiao, son of tribal chief Umukaria and younger brother of Hinemoa.
Iwi Le Comte created this sculpture utilising a ten tonne lava rock deposited in the forest during the 1886 Tarawera eruption and affixing a bronze mask recognising Wāhiao’s leadership, mana and strength.
Whilst his father lived at Hinemoa Point, Wāhiao lived on Pukeroa Hill in central Rotorua where the Rotorua Public Hospital now stands. When news of his father’s assassination reached him, Wāhiao was devastated but his people demanded he lead them to avenge the slaying of their chief, Umukaria.
A massive Tūhourangi war party assembled on Pukeroa Hill then marched to Whakarewarewa Village (2kms south of Rotorua township) to undertake training and then on to Rotokākahi (Green Lake).
Tūhourangi were victorious in battle at both major fortified settlements of Rotokākahi and Tarawera. They eventually settled the lakes of Rotokākahi, Tarawera, Rotomahana, and Ōkāreka. These areas remain part of the Tūhourangi tribal estate today.
KATAORE (Taniwha)
Artist: Tāwhanga Rika – Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Tarāwhai, Ngāti Rangiwewehi
This tāonga represents Kataore, an ancient massive lizard known by Māori as a taniwha. He lived in a cave on nearby Mount Moerangi and roamed freely upon these lands. Artist, Tāwhanga Rika, has created this sculpture using corten steel and mātai. The disc has a four-metre diameter and sits three metres high.
Tangaroamihi, who was the first settler in this area, made friends with Kataore who played with the children of his tribe. Soon Kataore became the tribal pet. As Kataore aged and grew to an enormous size, he spent more time alone and stories began to spread of travellers disappearing in the Moerangi area.
Eventually Kataore became uncontrollable and devoured a young woman who was making her way to Rotorua. Her fiancé was so upset that he raised a war party within his tribe that lived at Pukeroa Hill (in central Rotorua where the Rotorua Public Hospital now stands) to seek revenge and killed Kataore. Tangaroamihi mourned his pet but believed that he was the real target and that Kataore’s death was to trick him into battle.
Several fights followed, during which Tangaroamihi became a victim. However, the travelling war party was eventually defeated to such an extent that they left the Rotorua area.
HINEMOA AND TŪTĀNEKAI (Historical Romance)
Artist: Okiwi Logan Shipgood – Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao, Ngāti Uenukukōpako, Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Tūmatawera, Ngāti Kahu Upoko, Ngāti Tarāwhai, Ngāti Hinekura
The children of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai are the main ancestors of the Ngāti Whakaue nation, prominent within the Confederation of Te Arawa Tribes. The historical romance of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai has been immortalised in this 3.5-metre-high cement taonga (artwork) sculpted by Okiwi Shipgood.
Hinemoa, daughter of Umukaria and older sister of Wāhiao, grew up at Hinemoa Point on the eastern shores of Lake Rotorua. She was a famous puhi (woman of high rank) destined for a marriage that would bring political benefits to her tribe. She was also a woman of strong opinions who had already selected her true love, Tūtānekai, and eloped by swimming 3.4 kilometres across Lake Rotorua to join him on Mokoia Island.
The favoured son of chief Whakaue, Tūtānekai lived on Mokoia Island with his father’s tribe. He was a ferocious warrior and quick to take offence. His killing of two brothers accidentally led to the ambush and slaying of his father-in-law, Umukaria at Motutawa on Rotokākahi (the Green Lake).
When Tūtānekai died after a long illness, Hinemoa expressed her deep grief and loss in the waiata aroha (ancient sad song of love) that is still sung by their descendants today. In her sorrow she hinted at no longer having the will to live and sought out her father’s people, Tūhourangi, at Rotokākahi where she lived out the rest of her days.
The final resting place for Tūtānekai is at Weriweri, a tiny settlement on the north western shores of Lake Rotorua at Ngongotahā.
This taonga is sited on the boundary of Tūhourangi and Ngāti Whakaue tribal estates on Mount Moerangi.
This taonga is sited on the boundary of Tūhourangi and Ngāti Whakaue tribal estates on Mount Moerangi.
Image (pictured above): Stephen Parker
Te Pūtake o Tawa background information
Te Pūtake o Tawa (also known as Tawa Forest Hub at 516 Tarawera Road) was developed as part of the Whakarewarewa Forest Development to provide additional recreational access to the forest, as well as opportunity for new commercial developments. The hub opened in October 2020.
To date Mountain Bike Rotorua and Tūhourangi Tribal Authority have both been granted concessions to operate within Te Pūtake o Tawa.
Mountain Bike Rotorua holds a concession for providing bike hire, retail and a forest shuttle service.
Tūhourangi Tribal Authority have partnered with a combination of other local businesses (Whakarewarewa Village, Mitai, and Grounded Café) to provide a food and beverage offering, and retail space.
The Whakarewarewa Forest Development has received a $7.09million Government investment managed by Kānoa - REDIU, which has been used alongside $7.5million from Rotorua Lakes Council, to enhance the forest amenity and improve the experience for all. This is a collaborative project between CNI Iwi Holdings Limited and Rotorua Lakes Council, with the support and guidance of mana whenua. Timberlands has also supported the development of Te Pūtake o Tawa.
For more information on the Whakarewarewa Forest Development project visit visiontoaction.nz.
Government Decision, the Right One
Te Arawa welcome Government decision re MIQ
Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao, Te Paetapu o Te Pākira Marae, Ngāti Whakaue and Te Arawa leaders have welcomed the Government’s announcement this afternoon that an additional MIQ facility will not be established in Rotorua.
Letter to Prime Minister
MIQ Hotels in Rotorua
We are aware the Government is considering establishing an additional MIQ facility here in Rotorua – at the Holiday Inn next to Whakarewarewa.
On Friday we wrote to the Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern and COVID Response Minister Chris Hipkins to express our deep concerns about the proposal and its impact on our people. The complete lack of consultation with us as mana whenua is unacceptable. The negative impact of such a facility right next to our wharekai, Te Rau Aroha, and so close to our tupuna whare, Wāhiao, would be devastating.
We are seeking an urgent response from Government on this matter and won’t hesitate to take it further. We will keep you updated.
Amendments to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act
Te Ture Whenua Māori Act is the primary legislation for Māori land. It aims to balance the protection of Māori land for future generations with the ability to use and develop land to meet the aspirations of whānau.
The Act:
promotes the retention and use of Māori land
facilitates the occupation, development and use of that land
ensures decisions made about Māori land are fair and balanced, taking into account the needs of all the owners and their beneficiaries.
In August 2020, the Government passed targeted changes to the Act with Te Ture Whenua
Māori (Succession, Dispute Resolution, and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2020.
The changes are effective from Waitangi Day, 6 February 2021.
The changes are some practical and technical changes to the legislation, so that it works
better for landowners and supports the Māori Land Court to operate efficiently.
Te Pūtake o Tawa
Te Pūtake o Tawa is a mountain bike hub located within the Whakarewarewa Forest and is currently owned by Central North Island Iwi Holdings Ltd (CNI).
Although mana whenua belongs to Tūhourangi and Ngāti Whakaue, it is CNI who make all decisions in relation to what the forest will be used for. CNI represents 8 iwi, including Te Pumautanga o Te Arawa on behalf of all Te Arawa affiliates. They also work closely with the Rotorua Lakes Council who hold the recreational Crown Forestry License.
What this means is that Council also make decisions along with CNI when it comes to providing access to forest users including mountain bikers.
CNI and RLC recently ran a public process that called for businesses to operate food, beverage, retail and mountain biking services at the new hub. We’re excited to have been successful in our bid to offer food, beverage and retail services and will be working closely with Tūhourangi-owned local businesses to provide these offerings.
This is a monumental time for Tūhourangi because it’s the first time since prior to the eruption where we’ve had our own people operating businesses of significant scale on our whenua, particularly within the forest.
However, the main driver in our pursuit of this opportunity was that it positioned us well to support our whanau in business, and their kaimahi, as they recover from the impacts of COVID-19. We know all too well of the affects suffered by closures at places like Whakarewarewa Village.
The concessions for businesses to operate will be in place for the next two years after which they have the right to renewal for a further year. We believe this is in place as plans to have a more permanent commercial base are worked through by CNI and Council.
Whilst this concession isn’t forever, we believe as mana whenua, it’s the best possible step in the right direction and we’re delighted that CNI have acknowledge the contribution our people can make to the hub.
A ceremony at the hub took place on Thursday morning, hosted by CNI and RLC and will begin operating on Labour Weekend. Make sure to pop out and have a look with the whānau!
Mauri ora!
Call for Artists
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is going to be installing an outdoor art trail in the valley from 24 October. They’re giving local artists the opportunity to submit their designs and ideas to be considered as one of 12 finalists whose artwork will be displayed across summer for manuhiri to enjoy.
Prize money is on offer in two categories:
People’s Choice Award $1,500
Judge’s Choice Award $1,500
Wanted: Environmental Warriors
We’re looking to create a directory of Tūhourangi whānau working within the environmental space – we want to have as many of our whanaunga throughout Te Arawa as we can on our list so that we when opportunities become available, we can reach out to our own people first.
Do you have a passion for the environment? We're looking to add anyone that works around te taiao such as: pest management techs, environmental advisors, policy analysts, rangers, project managers, environmental lawyers, scientists, grassroots organisers – whatever your speciality is!
Reach out to Corey Ruha at corey@tuhourangi.iwi.nz with a name and number so he can add you (or a whānau member) to our directory.
Culturally significant lands at Waimangu to return to iwi ownership
Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi Trust (Te Mana) and Tūhourangi Tribal Authority (TTA) are pleased to announce that one year on since the Deed of Undertaking was signed between the two Iwi, they have been successful in jointly negotiating with the Crown for the return of culturally significant lands at Waimangu and Otūkapuarangi.
This milestone means that, Ngāti Rangitihi has resolved the overlapping claim issues it has with Tūhourangi and can proceed with voting on its Deed of Settlement. If the Ngāti Rangitihi Deed of Settlement is ratified and signed, Tūhourangi will then be able to have land returned that was not available when it settled with the Crown in 2007.
This pioneering agreement for the return of lands that were once the centre of many historic disputes for both Iwi, will mean Ngāti Rangithi and Tūhourangi stand to be both the joint business and landowners of Waimangu Volcanic Valley. This includes 80 hectares of concession land, currently leased from the Department of Conservation, for the operation of the eco-tourism business Waimangu Volcanic Valley Limited. The annual concession fee will now be paid to the joint iwi owners instead of to the Department of Conservation.
Te Mana Chairman, Leith Comer says this process has provided a unique opportunity for the two Iwi to work together to pursue common objectives at Tarawera.
“This agreement recognises the close overlap of Ngāti Rangitihi and Tūhourangi in a special part of the world, which features significantly in both our tribal stories,” says Mr Comer.
“Through this journey, we have rediscovered our close whakapapa, historical and cultural ties and we look forward to a strong, enduring and positive relationship with Tūhourangi post-settlement.
“Ngāti Rangitihi is pleased that, together with Tūhourangi, our people can now truly own and be the kaitiaki of Waimangu, and further develop our eco-tourism business there.
“We are also happy that we have been able to use the Treaty Settlement process to enable Tūhourangi to have the land at Otūkapuarangi returned to them, an area which is of particular cultural significance to them and which was originally part of the land awarded to them by the Native Land Court,” says Mr Comer.
TTA Chairman Alan Skipwith says that in achieving such a result through the joint negotiations, the concerns regarding overlapping interests at Tarawera and Rotomahana have been addressed, enabling the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement negotiations to be completed, so that Te Mana can bring to Ngāti Rangitihi members a Deed of Settlement to vote on. signing.
“The agreement will see mutual benefits for both Iwi and signals a new era in post-Treaty Settlement relationships among neighbouring Iwi,” says Mr Skpiwith.
Both Iwi acknowledge that this outcome would not would not have been possible without the vision and collaboration of all those who were committed to this innovative approach to resolving overlapping interests: the Ngāti Rangitihi and Tūhourangi negotiators; Minister Little and the team from Te Arawhiti; and also to the tīpuna and koeke of both Iwi, past and present.
“This work has been ongoing since 2015 and now we should all be very proud of the outcome and the return of these hugely historical Tūhourangi tribal lands at Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Otūkapuarangi,” says Mr Skipwith.
“Putting aside our differences in this way, despite the mamae of the past, will enable Tūhourangi and Ngāti Rangitihi to continue working together to develop the cultural, economic and environmental values of our whenua, through sustainable environmental tourism.
“The return to Iwi of the lands at Waimangu and Otūkapuarangi will mean that our future generations can reconnect with the tribal lands that their ancestors once roamed.”
Ngāti Rangitihi will be able to vote on their Deed of Settlement from Friday 24 July to Sunday 23 August 2020. If the Deed of Settlement is approved, the agreements between Te Mana and TTA will come into effect once the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement has passed through legislation in 2022.
“We encourage all of Ngāti Rangitihi to ensure they are registered so they can vote and have their say on this important part of our settlement journey,” says Mr Comer.
“This settlement is a comprehensive one, that will unlock immense value for Ngāti Rangitihi.”
Ngāti Rangitihi Settlement
Back in February 2020 we provided an update of the settlement process at a series of hui-ā-marae. We received unanimous support from the hui to finalise the joint negotiations with Ngāti Rangitihi for the return of Waimangu and Otukapuarangi blocks.
We should all be very proud of the outcome and the return of these hugely historical Tūhourangi tribal lands at Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Otukapuarangi, particularly given our own settlement was completed as full and final back in 2007 without these two settlements.
This means our joint tourism business at Waimangu will now pay the annual concession fee to our joint iwi owners (Tūhourangi and Ngāti Rangitihi) instead of to the Department of Conservation. Further, in addition to having Waimangu returned, Tūhourangi will now have 30ha along the shores of Lake Rotomahana returned in our own name.
This work has been ongoing since 2015 and would not have been possible without the vision and collaboration of some key people. We wish to acknowledge Leith Comer and the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement team, Minister Andrew Little and the team from Te Arawhiti that worked tremendously hard to facilitate this innovative approach to resolving overlapping interests, our koeke both past and present who bestowed their mana, and our team of negotiators with special acknowledgement to Rangitihi Pene and Shane Gibbons.
The Ngāti Rangitihi Deed of Settlement was initialled last week and they now enter their ratification process with a number of hui around the motu scheduled for August.
We are pleased to advise the key objectives and outcomes for Tūhourangi via the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement are:
Ngāti Rangitihi would remove any claim and or acknowledgement over all Tūhourangi lands (Parekarangi 6) as awarded in the NLC; Achieved
Jointly negotiate the return of Waimangu Volcanic Valley 135ha shared 50/50 undivided title with Ngāti Rangitihi via the Ngati Rangitihi settlement; Achieved 30ha via the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement as cultural redress
The above claim exceeded the cultural redress available under the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement, however the crown offered an additional 50ha to be purchased at a preferential rate (crown valuation $1.628m). The hui-ā-marae unanimously supported the TTA proposal to negotiate the purchase up to that amount; Achieved 50ha at iwi valuation $666,999
Return of Otukapuarangi 50ha sole title to Tūhourangi as cultural redress via the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement; Achieved 30ha
Return of Otukapuarangi 50ha sole title to Tūhourangi as cultural redress via the Ngāti Rangitihi settlement; Achieved 30ha
Tūhourangi would make no claim in respect of the Ruawahia block awarded by the Native Land Court to Ngāti Rangitihi; Agreed
Tarawera Landing
On the western shores of Lake Tarawera, our tupuna would welcome manuhiri, taking them to Te Otukapuarangi – the Pink and White Terraces.
In February, Rotorua Lakes Council made an unanimous decision to seek to return the land under the café to mana whenua, Tūhourangi Ngāti Wahiao.
The draft improvements to enhance the area to lift the visitor experience, have been developed by a small development team.
This link takes you through to a draft design for Waitoharuru and Punaromia. We are seeking feedback from you on the designs before being shared with other stakeholders:
Once you have viewed the draft design, please click this link to provide your feedback:
Hui-ā-marae
We are holding a series of hui-a-marae to update beneficiaries on the status and planned actions in regards to the agenda items listed below.
Agenda:
1. Confirmation of mandate and beneficiary agreement to proceed with legal action against Te Pumautanga o Te Arawa in respect of the inequitable devolution of Settlement assets.
2. Confirmation of mandate and agreement to finalise joint iwi agreements in respect of the Ngāti Rangitihi Treaty Settlement.
Venues Dates and Times as below:
• Hinemihi: Wednesday, 26 February 5pm – 6.30pm
• Apumoana: Thursday, 27 February 5pm – 6.30pm
• Te Pakira: Saturday, 29 February 1pm – 3.00pm
Please come along to ensure you are kept informed.
RLC signals return of land at Punaromia
A message from our TTA Chairperson, Allan Skipwith:
Kia ora e te whānau,
The return of this parcel of land at Punaromia relates to the land on which the Tarawera Café sits which is approximately 355m2 and was first brought to the TTA attention by Mauriora Kingi.
TTA trustees and the Rotorua Lakes Council operational staff have been investigating the area and various options that could enable this land to be returned to Tūhourangi; today we had the opportunity to present the proposal to the first Strategy, Policy and Finance Committee’s meeting of the new Council.
We spoke of the significance that this land has to Tūhourangi – it was overwhelming to listen to the Counsellors speak positively in support of the proposal and then to have the unanimous vote followed by spontaneous clapping from all those in the council chambers!
This is a significant first step in a process that Councillors asked to be completed as quickly as possible.
The café is owned by the current operator who late last year purchased the building and took over the lease arrangement with the RLC which expires in 2023. We are disappointed to have not had the opportunity to take this over ourselves as a first step toward complete ownership.
Heoi ano, a great start and one that would not have been possible without the strong working relationship built with the Mayor, councillors and their operational team. We will keep you updated.
The Rotorua Daily Post has already picked the story up – you can read more about it in this post.
Hui-ā-iwi: Update
The hui dealt with two matters:
1. Equity
Consistent with previous decisions the hui unanimously supported the continuation of TTA work to have this matter addressed and resolved:
a. That TTA engage with TPT to request them to take legal advice and steps to obtain a declaratory decision.
b. If those discussions are unsuccessful, TTA to consult with the iwi before taking any further action.
A copy of the FAQ sheet that was shared at the hui is included below.
2. The Ngati Rangitihi overlapping interests at Tarawera and Rotomahana.
In response to prior hui-a-iwi, TTA trustees were able to confirm:
- Ngati Rangitihi makes no claim for fee simple title or statutory acknowledgement over any Tuhourangi lands as awarded to them through the Native Land Court (Rotomahana Parekarangi 6 lands).
- In respect of the whenua rahui over the Tarawera maunga, through the Te Arawa Collective Settlement legislation, the Crown is able to provide a similar rahui to Ngati Rangitihi.
- The Waimangu fee simple titles over three parcels of land initially offered by the Crown to Ngati Rangitihi were withdrawn, these can only be included with the consent of Tuhourangi. TTA with the support of Ngati Rangitihi and via their settlement propose to take the opportunity for the return of this Waimangu land and another parcel which borders the lake where the Pink and White Terraces once were. Both are culturally significant Tuhourangi lands and part of Rotomahana Parekarangi 6.
Included below is a copy of the fact sheet distributed at the hui and includes the following meeting resolution:
The hui recommended that TTA work with Ngati Rangitihi to make the strongest case possible for the return of these culturally significant tribal lands.
FAQ’s Regarding Equity
What is equity?
Consider the scenario where two people enter into business, one invests $75 and the other $25. The equity and profit sharing is based on your contribution and NOT equal shares.
What is the background context to this question?
TTA have been working on understanding and trying to resolve equity within TPT for some time now.
Various consultants and contractors have been engaged by TPT to resolve this matter and these have included Willy Te Aho, OTS, Wira Gardner, Judge Hingston, and other contractors but to no avail.
In February this year Shane Gibbons was engaged by TPT to investigate and provide a report on the process and decisions taken that lead to the issue of equal shareholding of the settlement assets.
This report contains significant evidence and provides good cause for TTA to continue to pursue this matter as a priority.
What does equity mean to Tuhourangi?
We believe the settlement equity should be based on what each of the affiliates brought to the table by way of their claims e.g. as quantified by their respective land lost.
Tuhourangi lost 64,000 acres while some affiliates lost very little land and they share equally in the settlement.
What is Tuhourangi entitled to?
The Tuhourangi land loss has an estimated value of $533m.
What is Tuhourangi going to receive?
Based on the current equal shares allocated to all TPT affiliates Tuhourangi projected value at 2043 is $117m.
What level of satisfaction does this provide for the Tuhourangi claims?
Based on a land loss value of $533m and the current projected settlement value of $117m Tuhourangi level of satisfaction is only 22%.
Who are the other affiliates affected by this equity question?
Kea Tuara 76% satisfaction, and Tura Tu Ngakau 96% satisfaction.
How does that compare with other affiliates?
All but the three affiliates named above receive well in excess of their entitlement, as an example one affiliate based on their land loss value $6m will receive $73m making their level of satisfaction 1216%.
Another example is one iwi withdrew from the collective settlement but three of their hapu remained in the collective effectively they will achieve more than Tuhourangi (entitled to $48m and receiving $220m, level of satisfaction is 458%).
A similar analogy can be made where another iwi remained in the collective but split into three effectively getting three shares (entitlement $59m and receiving $249m, level of satisfaction is 422%).
What is the current appetite within TPT to review and or remedy this?
There is zero appetite for change.
Only Tuhourangi and possibly one other affiliate believe there is an issue the rest refuse to attend meetings, receive reports or discuss the issue and possible solutions.
What is the current basis for distribution of the settlement assets?
The cash surplus was used to float TAGH for which there are equal shares issued to all affiliates.
All income from the settlement assets including CNI forest rentals, school property rentals are assigned to TAGH and by default are shared equally.
The policy for the devolution of the CNI forest lands has NOT been determined but the assumption being promoted by most is these will be returned to the mana whenua.
What options are there to resolve the equity issue?
Recalculate the sharing model to fairly reflect the affiliates input/claim value.
Leave the TAGH shareholding as is and allocate the rental streams only to those affiliates whose level of satisfaction is below 100%.
Allocate the CNI lands only to those affiliates where the level of satisfaction is below 100%.
This option would still be short for Tuhourangi ($353m) but is better than the current $117m.
How is the TTA settlement value made up?
TTA has an equal share in TAGH which at 2018 had a value of $9m, (The annual dividend return is $100k per anum).
TTA mana whenua in the CNI forest includes Whaka, Waimangu, Highlands, Paeroa East but the devolution of these lands is still to be agreed at TPT.
TTA also received 5 cultural redress properties, Punaromia, Rotomahana, Kakapiko, Moerangi, and a half share in Te Ariki.
Are there any other areas of the settlement that need to be resolved?
The TPT research and subsequent award of the Waiotapu cultural redress property to Tahu Whaoa was totally inadequate and ignores the fact that Tuhourangi mana whenua entitles Tuhourangi to an estimated half share. (This includes the Thermal Valley tourist attraction.)
TPT took up the first right of purchase of a farm block at Horohoro, Tuhourangi did not receive the opportunity to purchase this, nor did the whanau. The right was given to TAGH who simply on sold it for a profit of $1m.
Are there any other issues that arise from the inequitable settlement?
Such is the inequitable and prejudicial nature of our settlement Tuhourangi has had to try and enhance its position by other means including:
- Having Te Puia assist fund the TTA 50% share in the purchase of Waimangu Valley tourism business.
- Having to consider using the Ngati Rangitihi settlement to secure the return of further mana whenua.
- TTA having limited capacity to provide social outcomes to our iwi.
What is being proposed?
The hui resolved to support:
- That TTA engage with TPT to request them to seek legal advice and take steps to obtain a declaratory decision.
- If those discussions are unsuccessful, TTA to consult with the iwi before taking any further action.
NB. The resolution was carried by a unanimous vote.
FAQ’s Regarding the Ngati Rangitihi Overlapping Interests at Tarawera and Rotomahana
What land is Ngati Rangitihi (NR) claiming in respect to Tarawera and Rotomahana?
Their claim includes 16 separate parcels of land that are located in the Ruawahia block.
Who did the Native Land Court award the Ruawahia block to?
Ngati Rangitihi were awarded the Ruawahia block but they were also the Rotomahana Parekarangi 5 and Rerewhakaitu blocks, all in the Tarawera Rotomahana area.
Are NR claiming any land interests on Tuhourangi side of the boundary?
No, but NR have offered, entirely at the perogative of Tuhourangi, to have two statutory acknowledgements on Parekarangi 6 blocks to be assigned to Tuhourangi by way of the NR settlement. These blocks have been offered to NR by the crown however if Tuhourangi were to decide not to avail themselves of this offer NR will ask for these to be removed from their settlement.
Does Tuhourangi have any land on the NR side of the boundary?
Yes we do, as a result of our settlement Tuhourangi was given a whenua rahui reserve status over the northern side of the maunga. The Crown plan to provide NR with a similar rahui over the same block which we initially disputed however our settlement legislation provides for the Crown to do this.
What lands were Tuhourangi awarded by the Native Land?
Tuhourangi area of interests is extends from Putauaki to Tauhara however from actual lands claimed via the NLC Tuhouangi were principally awarded Rotomahana Parekarangi 6 blocks, from Tarawera Rotomahana through to the Waikato river. This included the disputed land at Te Ariki and Rotomahana.
Where are these blocks?
Parekarangi 6 borders Ruawahia through the middle of Lake Tarawera. Parekarangi 6 borders Parekarangi 5 at Rotomahana. (See the map attached app.1)
Did Tuhourangi and Ngati Rangitihi live together at Tarawera and was it a peaceful existence?
Yes, generally it was peaceful and we did fight together against all other threats. But we did fight each other over Te Ariki, and the Pink and White Terraces where battles over a number of years saw people on both sides killed. There remains strong whakapapa connections with NR.
Who won?
Eventually peace was made and Tuhourangi retained their mana at Te Ariki and the Terraces. The land was eventually taken by the Crown post the Tarawera eruption.
What is the opportunity for Tuhourangi to get more land returned?
Virtually nil, as Tuhourangi settled all their claims in 2008 as part of the Te Arawa collective (TPT) and that was accepted as full and final and the legislation prevents Tuhourangi revisiting those historical claims.
But currently two options present for this to happen:
• We can, through the NR settlement process, have more lands returned, NR are happy to facilitate this and the Crown are prepared to assist iwi to enable this to happen. We have identified two areas that are culturally significant to us. One block is the Waimangu Volcanic Valley 134ha that our business currently leases from DOC and the other is an adjacent block along the Rotomahana lake shore called Otukapuarangi 40ha (this is where the Pink and White Terraces were).
• Alternatively, we could take a contemporary claim via the Tribunal and or the High Court. The outcome would likely NOT include vast tracks of land being returned but limited to the likes of Otukapuarangi.
What would the arrangement be for NR to enable this to occur?
In appreciation for assisting with the return of Otukapuarangi in sole fee simple title to Tuhourangi we would share 50/50 an undivided fee simple title in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, noting that we are currently joint owners with NR in that business.
NR have acknowledged Tuhourangi via their TPT collective settlement may raise a contemporary claim, they respect our perogative, but require that this has no impact for the matters in their AIP.
Were other options considered?
The expectation of having the Crown realign the NLC awards with our historical mana whenua view is unrealistic.
The expectation of having a successful contemporary claim has significant cost and risk for minimal reward.
The return of various larger blocks was investigated but considered less likely to succeed.
This proposition still requires Crown approval and we will work with NR to make the strongest possible case.
What benefits would this proposition have for Tuhourangi?
• Provides the last chance for the return of more of our tribal lands.
• Has both significant cultural and financial benefits.
• Financial benefits to the iwi via our joint venture tourism operation at Waimangu where lease costs, currently being paid to DOC, would be paid to the iwi.
• Better enables the iwi to provide social outcomes.
• Avoids any litigation costs.
• Presents the opportunity to strengthen inter-iwi relationships and establishes a model of collaboration for iwi moving into the future.
• This proposition ensures both iwi can uphold their respective historical mana whenua views.
• Consistent with the peace made in 1850 after the Te Ariki disputes.
What is the recommendation to the Tuhourangi Tribal Authority?
TTA trustees believe this to be a fair landing for both iwi with significant cultural and financial justification that will enable us both to be future focused.
The hui recommended that TTA work with Ngati Rangitihi to make the strongest case possible for the return of these culturally significant tribal lands.
NB. The resolution was carried by a majority vote.