“ Papaki mai ngā nunui, wawaratia ngā tai rere, e ripo e ngā ngaru nunui, te rehu tai, hei konei ra”
– na Makareta Moehau Tamaariki.
It is essential to recognise the spiritual, cultural and historic connections mana whenua have with the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi. This report has endeavoured to capture equally and weave together Māori and Tauiwi perspectives.
Ki uta, ki tai, from the mountains to the sea. There are constant reminders that our taiao – environment is changing. The environment and the kaupapa for preservation and protection of this taonga we call The Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi, must come first.
Let us be the voice for the voiceless. At the Hauraki Gulf Forum’s 2019 Making Waves Conference all attendees were asked what they would say if they were the moana of the Hauraki Gulf, Tīkapa Moana, Te Moananui-ā-Toi. Their beautiful collective story, ‘Healing the Hauraki Gulf – together’, is published here.
As we enter into this new decade, we reflect on all that has been accomplished and what more needs to be done to ensure our tamariki and mokopuna can enjoy this taonga.
In May 2019 the Hauraki Gulf Forum set two major goals; 1000 square kilometres of shellfish restoration and at least 20% marine protection of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. These goals are a starting point from which to grow dreams and aspirations. Through good management, collaborative strategies and plans in action, the dreams and aspirations of a healthy and vibrant Hauraki Gulf, Tīkapa Moana, Te Moananui-ā-Toi will be a reality.
It is important to acknowledge the dedication and efforts of mana whenua, government agencies, local government, philanthropic organisations, learning institutions, local businesses, community groups and individuals collectively committed to making a difference.
In addition, work by local and now central government to take forward the Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari Marine Spatial brings with it both hopes and expectations.
The increasingly positive relationships with local and central government, in particular with the Ministers of Conservation, Fisheries and Māori Development, are a source of strength for the moana.
After 20 years of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, it does feel like the tides are starting to turn for the better. Together we will achieve great results.
He waka eke noa – We are all in this waka together
“Who’s willing to get their butt wet?”