wide-ranging regional investigation into any such contamination. The two streams are relatively inaccessible. Iwi and local residents have been notified. The potential long-term effects of these chemicals on human health and the environment are unclear and the subject of ongoing research at central government and international levels. The chemicals are from a category known as PFAS, which have been used as constituents of firefighting foam. They are also widely used in or on everyday items such as
interests of the region, while the Council as a whole also signed a declaration. Councillors also endorsed the Elected Members’ Code of Conduct. A powhiri was held before the meeting to welcome councillors and iwi representatives, with the Council’s leadership team and guests in attendance. The first ordinary meeting of the new Council is set down for 1pm on 8 November at Port Taranaki, at which the structure and chairs of Council committees will be confirmed. The full meeting agenda will be available
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Tūranga Towards Predator-Free Taranaki programme expanded, including an additional 23,000ha in Ōpunake and Oeo added to the rural project that controls stoats, weasels and ferrets (mustelids). A key focus was improving how the Council works with Māori and this included a new Heads of Agreement with the eight iwi of Taranaki detailing how they and the Council can work together to advance development of the Natural Resources Plan. This year also saw the introduction of a Māori constituency for the 2022
to major corporates, from farmers to iwi and hapū, from community to grassroots conservation groups, are shared and celebrated. This is a prime example of the ongoing commitment to the preservation of the Taranaki. “The awards are pivotal in celebrating the wonderful work happening in the community and recognising Taranaki environmental heroes. We are excited to celebrate these heroes at a more formal event this year, following the disruption and uncertainty caused by Covid-19 in previous years.”
species, including kārearea (native falcon) and whio (blue ducks), as well as native fish. They undertake regular water quality monitoring too. They have embraced regenerative farming to minimise the impact on the environment, and hold workshops to spread the word to other farmers about regenerative methods. Mark and Rob Hooper - for a significant contribution to the protection and enhancement of precious native habitats in Taranaki. Mark Hooper and his father Rob are working with Iwi and Hapū to
groups, iwi and schools have also been dusting off their spades. Anyone can get involved - if we all planted a native plant or two, what a difference that would make. So what is the right plant and right place? Taranaki covers a geographically diverse area so factors such as rainfall, soil, frost, wind and salt vary greatly across the region. For the purposes of planting, Taranaki is divided into five ecological districts – Egmont, Foxton, Matemateaonga, Manawatu Plains and North Taranaki. Each has a
also covers the evolving role of mātauranga Māori, iwi and hapū in decision-making. Ms Matthews says the report contains a mix of good and not so good news. “Aspects of our environment are in good condition, with excellent progress in recent years. But, as is the case across the country, there are also areas where we have a lot more work to do. “We hope this report will prompt a wider discussion about the best way forward, and how we can leave Taranaki in a better state for future generations.” The
the Waiwhakaiho Awa (river). From Taranaki Maunga to the moana, the Ngāti Tawhirikura Hapū and Te Atiawa Iwi project is reconnecting whānau with their ancestral awa and restoring the Waiwhakaiho River catchment. Led by the hapū, 2021 alone saw 6.8 hectares planted with 15,000 plants while locally sourced seeds from species native to the area are grown in a newly-created nursery. Combining mātauranga Māori with a science-based approach, the project has provided a great training opportunity and jobs
policy statement that sets out the region’s long-term, achievable aspirations. The first phase of engagement, using an online survey and community workshop, reinforced that the community’s views and aspirations align with those of the Council. No additional issues were identified. Council officers are preparing for the second phase with iwi authorities and stakeholders, after which they will develop a draft vision.