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Rūnanga

Regional Rūnanga Development

The Vision:
Our dream is that our Papatipu Rūnanga (marae communities) remain the beating hearts of our tribal identity. Our goal is that Papatipu Rūnanga are economically strong and culturally vibrant.

Papatipu Rūnanga are the home of Ngāi Tahu identity and the seat of our traditions. Located predominantly in our traditional settlements, Papatipu Rūnanga are coastal and often rural. The vitality of our marae communities is often reliant on there being sufficient opportunities and infrastructure for whānau to be able to live close to the marae. Te Rūnanga has adopted a holistic approach to regional and rūnanga development, with a particular focus on re-developing customary industries, including pounamu, mahinga kai and traditional craft.

Te Rūnanga has adopted a holistic approach to regional and rūnanga development, with a particular focus on re-developing customary industries, including pounamu, mahinga kai and traditional craft.

Te Rūnanga contributes a range of tools and resources to the aspirations of ngā Papatipu Rūnanga, including:

  • Natural resources
    providing access to pounamu and eels.
  • Financial capital
    providing financial endowments to regional rūnanga to encourage financial investment and independence.
  • Human capital
    providing skills, knowledge and expertise in the management of resources.
  • Institutions of governance
    assisting to build the structures of local tribal government that match cultural norms and ensure a stable environment for investment and social development.

Regional development also encompasses education – incorporating Ngāi Tahu identity, language and culture into public institutions such as schools and Early Childhood Centres. Rūnanga are also the vehicles for tribal development, by helping put in place robust governance and management institutions we create stability for investment, social development and the management of resources.

Rūnanga Stories

Conservation project hopes to maintain momentum

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Murihiku Marae reopening a proud moment for Waihōpai Rūnaka

Murihiku Marae reopened its doors on the 2nd of June following an extensive redevelopment project that shows commitment to environmental sustainability and community wellbeing. The completion of this multi-million dollar development, incorporating a triple net-zero approach—targeting water, energy, and carbon neutrality—marks a proud milestone for Waihōpai Rūnaka. Over the course of just 12 months, the…

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Mana Whakahono ā Rohe takes out key NZPI award

21 April 2023 The New Zealand Planning Institute has recognised the ground-breaking planning work undertaken by Poutini Ngāi Tahu and the West Coast Regional Council in the development and implementation of a Mana Whakahono ā Rohe – Iwi Participation Agreement, awarding it the Best Practice Award in Consultation and Participation Strategies and/or processes. The first…

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