Kaitiaki agreement to guide future of Moringaehe Reserve

A significant milestone has been reached with the signing of a co-management kaitiaki agreement between Far North District Council and Ngā Hapū o Ahiparapara for Moringaehe Reserve.

Moringaehe Reserve is in Ahipara on Whāro Way. Following a long-term occupation and protest regarding the protection of local wāhi tapu (sacred sites) and a significant pōhutukawa tree, Far North District Council purchased the land in 2024 to protect it as a reserve.

The agreement signals a new chapter in how both parties will work together with a focus on shared decision-making and long-term environmental protection.

The Kaitiaki Agreement was presented to Te Kuaka Committee on Monday, 20 April 2026. It outlines a shared governance approach that recognises mana whenua authority while strengthening collaboration between iwi and council.

Te Kuaka Committee approved the agreement and nominated Councillor Halkyard-Harawira to be appointed as the council’s representative on the Moringaehe Reserve Working Group.

The agreement reflects years of commitment by Ngā Hapū o Ahiparapara to uphold its role as kaitiaki, ensuring the voices, values, and mātauranga of Māori are recognised in decision-making processes. It prioritises the protection of wāhi tapu, mahinga kai, and natural resources, while creating a pathway for more inclusive and culturally grounded approaches to environmental management.

Matua Rueben Taipari a spokesperson for Ngā Hapū o Ahiparapara says, “This has been a long journey for our hapū, [the signing] represents not only the acknowledgment of our role as kaitiaki, but also a commitment to working together to protect and enhance our whenua for future generations.”

Councillor Tāmati Rākena, the Chairperson for Te Kuaka, also emphasised the importance of the partnership and the opportunities it creates for more collaborative governance.

“This agreement reflects our commitment to building enduring relationships with mana whenua and ensuring that decision-making is informed by the knowledge and leadership of hapū.”

You can read the meeting minutes here and watch the meeting here.