Taking legal action for our whānau and freshwater
Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa is taking legal action to protect the freshwater that has sustained our whānau for generations. This case supports Ngāi Tahu’s efforts to ensure the Crown recognises iwi and hapū rights over rivers and lakes, crucial to our lives and culture.
We are asking the High Court to officially recognise the rights of Te Rohe o Te Wairoa iwi and hapū over freshwater in our area, including the Wairoa River, Hangaroa River, Mangapoike River, Ruakituri River, Waiau River, Waikaretaheke River, Whakakī Lake and its surrounding tributaries, as well as Lake Waikaremoana. Our claim is based on tikanga passed down by our tūpuna.
The Trust, established in 2018 after a Treaty of Waitangi settlement, continues to address issues like freshwater protection, which remains a challenge despite the settlement. Chairperson Leon Symes who was previously Deputy Chairperson of Te Tira Whakaemi o Te Wairoa (the mandated pre-settlement entity) says, “The settlement was a vital step, but ongoing issues like freshwater protection are key. These waterways are vital to our food, culture, and way of life.”
Te Wairoa, where 65.7% of the population identifies as Māori (2018 census), is one of New Zealand’s poorest communities. Many whānau rely on these rivers and lakes for food and resources and protecting them is essential to our wellbeing.
This case is not just legal action—it’s about ensuring future generations can rely on these waters, as we have. We support Ngāi Tahu’s case, which began on 10 February 2025 in Christchurch, and our own case which began in the High Court on 10 March 2025. This is about securing the rights of iwi and hapū across Aotearoa to protect their rivers and lakes for all whānau.
