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Successful
Recipe for Environmental Outcomes
by
the Hokianga Accord
April 2008
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This article was originally
published in the New Zealand Fishing News May 2008 edition.
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Humour
mixed with in-depth discussions has always been a feature
of Hokianga Accord hui.
The
eleventh overnight hui held at Whakamaharatanga Marae, Hokianga,
at the beginning of the month was no exception. Without doubt,
having both Maori and non-Maori working together to achieve
the best outcomes for our fisheries and environment is proving
to be a successful recipe.
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Initial
discussions
Initial
discussions focused on the process to develop a meaningful
working relationship between mid-north iwi and the Ministry
of Fisheries. Both Ngapuhi and Ngati Whatua are committed
to working through the Accord to achieve sustainable fisheries
for all New Zealanders. Ngati Wai are supportive of the
Accord but have decided their best approach for now is to
work directly with MFish.
Jonathan Peacey, MFish’ National Fisheries Operations
Manager, and Carl Ross, the Customary Relationships Manager
explained the Ministry’s expectations and aspirations
for the mid-north iwi fisheries forum. As expected, healthy
debate followed these discussions and continued after Jonathan
and Carl left the hui.
Similar to the last hui, another series of questions were
put to MFish during their presentations and the Accord awaits
their response with interest. This exchange of information
will be recorded in the full hui report due next month.
Previous
hui reports are already online.
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Humour
and education
On a lighter note
the NZ Big Game Fishing Council advised they are working
on an education programme with Mark and Chris de Lacy, aka
‘the Minstrel’. Mark and Chris are devoted to
improving the quality of information given to our tamariki
and mokopuna about protecting our moana and the taonga (treasures)
within the sea. The Minstrel visits most schools in the
country at least once a year so the opportunity to reach
more young people through funny songs, poems and dances
is exciting.
A brief report of the first two planning meetings for the
North Island’s west coast fisheries was one of a number
of updates given to the hui. Gazetting of rohe moana stirred
intense debate generating a valuable opportunity for everyone
to share their experiences and consider the best approach
to future coastal management.
Having already committed to the collective goal of ‘more
fish in the water’ it was appropriate to hear of the
recent developments for improving soil carbon-density and
sustainable land use. Improving the quality of run-off into
freshwater and marine waterways has proven to be an effective
measure to enhance life within our rivers and coastal areas.
Many people do not realise the serious environmental impacts
from intensive, inshore finfish farming and aquaculture.
Sustainable aquaculture is achievable and necessary given
the significant investment involved. Balancing Maori’s
commercial and non-commercial future fishing interests may
seem complex; thankfully the Hokianga Accord is an ideal
forum to have these ongoing discussions.
Buster
Hancy
Coinciding with
the Accord’s hui was the tangi for a local Ngapuhi
kaumatua Buster Hancy. Hui participants went to Mataiaranui
Marae to pay respects to Buster and be with his whanau.
This was a new experience for many of the non-Maori at the
hui and a special moment to remember.
Haere, Haere, Haere.
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