It is hoped new terms of reference for the mana-to-mana group
between the Otago Regional Council and Kai Tahu Otago runanga
will improve their relationship.
The terms of reference were proposed by Kai Tahu ki Otago
and, after consideration at a recent mana-to-mana meeting, it
asked for formal endorsement of the terms by the regional
council.
In another move to address legislative requirements, the
council had also invited the group to elect two
representatives to its natural resources committee - a first
for the council.
Council chairman Stephen Woodhead said at yesterday's council
meeting he was well aware the council had not been meeting
runanga needs so it was hoped the terms of reference would
focus the group, give it aims and objectives.
"It's about enhancing our relationship and ensuring they are
part of the management of natural resources, in particular
water."
The group comprised Mr Woodhead and councillors David
Shepherd, Sam Neill and Duncan Butcher and the chairmen of Te
Runanga o Moeraki, Kati Huirapa Runaka ki Puke-teraki, Te
Runanga o Otakou and Hokonui Runanga.
A one year timeframe had been allowed to achieve the changes
before the terms were reviewed.
The objectives included strengthening their relationship,
collaborating on improving environmental sustainability,
identifying opportunities for Kai Tahu to contribute to
council decision making and to set and oversee a joint work
programme concerning resource management.
Otakou runanga chairman Edward Ellison said problems with
consultation on the council's water plan process had been the
"trigger" for the terms and it was hoped it would lead to
effective consultation and engagement in policy and planning
processes.
"It'll put a framework in place."
If the agreement was honoured and the work was put in to it,
the terms would serve both parties well, he said.
The offer from the council for two representatives to sit on
the natural resources committee was seen as an "isolated
attempt to address the consultation requirements".
However, with the terms in place, two representatives would
not be sitting in isolation, he said.
"Now, there is a framework to support the two positions."
- rebecca.fox@odt.co.nz
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.