Working with Tangata Whenua

Takenga mai | Background 

Far North District Council’s vision and mission illustrates the hononga (connection) between people and place. This is especially so for tangata whenua who have a long and rich association with Te Hiku o Te Ika. Council recognises these long term and enduring relationships and therefore the special positions of tangata whenua within this district and the significant role Māori have to play in Council’s decision making.

Ā mātou mahi ināianei | What are we doing now?

Te Urutau | Adaptation

The Climate Action and Resilience Department have begun early engagement for Stage One of the Community Adaptation Programme in Hokianga. This engagement is guided by kaimanaaki hapori, who work with hapū, marae and whānau to gather insights and inform the development of adaptation plans.

There are different ways that tangata whenua can have opportunities to contribute to and lead a local adaptation planning process. This could, for example, be achieved through hapū leading the risk assessment process (with the Council providing support, such as resources or information). Tangata whenua-led adaptation will feed into Community Adaptation Plans. These plans will outline pathways and options for responding to issues and identify when it’s time to shift from one response to another.

Te Manawaroa me te Urupare | Resilience and Response

Marae have proven to be a vital part of the emergency response network, especially in rural areas. Haukāinga are often the first responders and marae can quickly become the community hub, providing sustenance and shelter. Civil Defence Emergency Management plans are an important step in building marae readiness and resilience. Our team works closely with Northland Regional Council and Civil Defence to support marae and hapū to develop plans.

Ngā Rauemi | Resources

A te ao Māori climate change framework, templates and resources by Māori, for Māori are available to assist tangata whenua with the adaptation planning process. For more information please email: climate.action@fndc.govt.nz

Iwi Hapū Environmental Management Plans (IHEMP), set out the environmental and resource management plan of tāngata whenua for an area. The plans can include goals, policies, methods, or any issues of concern or interest. For more information please email: tehonosupport@fndc.govt.nz

For more information on Te Ao Māori and Counci, follow this link.