Iwi releases eco plan
Ngati Ruanui has laid the base line for what it perceives to be best environmental practice and how it would engage with role players regarding their policies and actions in an Iwi Environmental Plan launched at the iwi-owned Stratford Mountain House.
"We are the iwi with the largest amount of oil and gas companies in our backyard. There are opportunities, if done in a responsible way," says Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, kairataki of the Te Runanga o Ngati Ruanui Trust.
She says Ngati Ruanui is the first Taranaki iwi to formally release a new generation Iwi Management Plan in the region.
"The plan has been two years in the making and has involved extensive consultation and discussion. The plan reflects the environmental outcomes which are important to our people, and being the first makes this a very proud moment."
She adds that the plan under the Resource Management Act will need to be taken into account when both regional and local councils amend and review their planning documents.
"The plan covers all aspects of the environment including sections on the land, water and oil and minerals. Our plan has set out clear directions and policy approaches for our councils to follow.
The Taranaki Regional Council and Stratford District Council say they are currently assessing the document.
