Historic partnership deal signed by iwi and top of the South Councils
Calvin Hart (Rangitāne o Wairau co-chair), Tania Alesana (Ngāti Kuia co-chair), CarolinePalmer (Ngāti Kōata chair), Rebecca Mason (Ngāti Kuia co-chair), Patariki Hippolite (NgātiToa Rangatira), Hinemoa Conner (Ngāti Apa ki te Rā Tō chair), Rachael Hāte (Te Ātiawa o teWaka-a-Māui chair), Olivia Hall (Chair, Ngāti Rārua and presiding chair of Te Waka-a-MāuiIwi Chairs Forum), Nelson Mayor Nick Smith, Tasman Mayor Tim King, Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor and Butch (Anthony) Little (chair, Ngāti Tama ki teWaipounamu) Photo: Supplied.
An historic agreement between iwi and councils in the top of the South Island has been signed in recognition of their strong relationships.
The Together Te Tauihu agreement was signed in Whakatū Nelson yesterday by the chairs of the eight tangata whenua iwi of Te Tauihu o te Waka-a-Māui (the top of the South Island) and the mayors of Tasman, Nelson and Marlborough.
The signing follows overwhelming support from the three councils who say the milestone memorandum will see them work more closely together across the regions.
In both Tasman and Nelson, councillors voted unanimously to support the partnership agreement.
Olivia Hall, chairperson of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua and presiding chair of the long-running Te Waka-a-Māui Iwi Chairs Forum, says it was a proud day.
“This is a significant milestone, for all of Te Tauihu, for all of our communities and it is important to firstly acknowledge the work of many across the region over many years to establish more meaningful relationships, strengthen ties and achieve better outcomes.
“To me, this is a document of potential. It shows we’re all here to talk, we’re here to participate, we don’t always have to agree, but we are here for the long haul for the betterment of all.
“It reminds us of our obligations and our opportunities.”
Olivia says the agreement recognised the important and unique roles iwi and councils play in the cultural, social, environmental and economic wellbeing of Te Tauihu.
On behalf of the three mayors, Tasman Mayor Tim King welcomed the agreement.
He says the entire top of the South community would benefit from the stronger relationships this partnership identified and supported.
“This agreement now provides an agreed framework for our continuing work together.
“Fundamentally, the agreement is about ensuring we keep taking steps forward and building on the relationship and acknowledging that, yes, we are stronger together.”
Together Te Tauihu sets out various partnership principles as well as review mechanisms. Iwi chairs and mayors are expected to meet in person in early 2024 to establish priority outcomes for the coming year.