Rangitoto Reserve proposal reflects land’s historic value

The public will be asked about changing the classification of a prominent headland at the eastern entrance to the Mangōnui Harbour so that Rangitoto Pā, a historical site with archaeological value and cultural significance to mana whenua, can be better protected.

The council approved a proposal for Rangitoto Reserve in Doubtless Bay to become a ‘Historic Reserve’, at a meeting last Thursday (24 August). Public consultation on the proposed classification change is likely before the end of the year.

Rangitoto Pā covers most of the land at Rangitoto Reserve. Land in the vicinity of the reserve was sold to European purchasers prior to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. In 1878 Rangitoto Reserve was reserved by the Crown for the purposes of public defence, and in 1962 it was vested in trust with the council (then Mangōnui County Council) as a Recreation Reserve.

The Reserve Act allows classification of the site to be changed to a Historic Reserve. Mana whenua, along with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, recommended the reserve be classified as historic. This was also supported by council staff.

Under the Reserves Act, the council is required to publicly notify a proposed change to a reserve classification so that people have an opportunity to have their say. This community consultation period is expected to run for a month with submissions to be heard by Te Hiku Community Board.

Community consultation has so far involved mana whenua, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and an adjoining landowner. Cultural reports will be prepared by mana whenua representatives. A Reserve Management Plan (RMP) will be developed following these reports. The new classification will ensure that the RMP and future management recognises the historic and cultural importance of Rangitoto Pā.

If, having considered the submissions, the council proceeds with the proposal, the classification will be notified in the NZ Gazette. The costs of classification and developing the RMP will be met from existing operating budgets.

The historical importance of other reserves in the Far North is being considered by council staff. 

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Photo - looking towards Mangōnui township from Rangitoto Reserve, located on the headland at the eastern entrance to Mangōnui Harbour.