12th November 2009
Media Release
For immediate release

Auckland Iwi Oppose Watercare Dumping Waste on Tapu Land

An appeal was lodged in court this week by Rob Enright, Partner at Kirkland Enright on behalf of iwi fighting Watercare who want to dump human waste on tapu land at Puketutu Island in Auckland.

On the grounds of cultural and historical significance, the local iwi of Makaurau Marae and Te Kawerau a Maki, reject the company’s application and have taken their case to the Environment Court.

 “Watercare's decision raises a number of jurisdictional and cultural issues “says lawyer, Rob Enright. "The appeal challenges cultural paradigms relating to the effect of bio sludge on ancestral lands and waahi tapu."  

Unlike any of past activities on the island including farming, forestry or quarrying, this proposed activity will have an irreversible adverse impact on the spiritual, cultural, historical, ancestral, and environmental values.

In May, Commissioners representing the ARC and Manukau City Council heard evidence from all affected parties and recommended Watercare withdraw the notice of requirement, but the company has rejected this finding.

Chairman of Te Kawerau Iwi Tribal Authority, Te Warena Taua said at the hearing, “Te Motu a Hiaroa (Puketutu Island) is at the centre of our ancestral, spiritual, historical and cultural world, and is fundamental to our identity as a people. We must therefore do everything in our power to save it from the massive and irreversible desecration that this proposal would inevitably bring.”

This stance by our Kaumatua, Te Warena Taua is wholeheartedly supported by Janice Roberts, Chairperson of Makaurau Marae.

The hearing of the appeal notices will take place in the Environment Court prior to the amalgamation of the Super City.

ENDS

© Scoop Media