Nā Shakayla Andrews-Alapaki tēnei atikara.
Ngāi Tūāhuriri has placed a rāhui over its customary whitebait season, suspending customary fishing activity until further notice.
The decision follows what the hapū says was careful consideration of tikanga and its responsibility as kaitiaki of mahinga kai within its takiwā.
Ngāi Tūāhuriri Tangata Tiaki committee secretary Te Marino Lenihan said the decision was not taken lightly and reflected the need to ensure customary rights remain linked to customary responsibilities.
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The customary season was established five years ago to allow kaumātua to safely fish alongside their mokopuna while passing on traditions and strengthening connections to their rivers. However, Lenihan said ongoing abuse had created safety concerns for many whānau fishers.
“We have experienced ongoing abuse and many of our whānau fishers still don’t feel safe,” he said.
Lenihan said the rāhui would give the hapū time to reflect on lessons learned over the past five years, review processes and protocols, and engage with whānau on the future of the customary season.
Department of Conservation Mahaanui Operations Manager Andy Thompson said the rāhui followed a robust process involving the hapū, DOC and other agencies.
Thompson said he respected the hapū’s decision and its commitment to upholding customary rights and responsibilities. He added that DOC would support the rāhui and continue monitoring Canterbury rivers during the upcoming whitebait season, which opens on September 1.