Port Tarakohe and the surrounding area has rich cultural heritage and a long history of occupation and use for ngā iwi.There are a number of identified archaeological sites and a range of known culturally significant locations.
A clear understanding of cultural values is essential to understand how current and future activities can impact on cultural values and what opportunities may be available for development of the land in a way that provides protection and enhancement to cultural values and enhances understanding and respect.
Manawhenua ki Mohua provided a strategic overview of cultural values for the Port Tarakohe business case proposal and this document provides clear guidance on cultural issues at a high level, including direction on activities considered to be inappropriate. That document is included as Appendix 3 to the Issues and Options report.
The Ngāti Tama Environmental Management Plan 2018 also provides clear guidance on the issues relating to development generally and structures in the coastal marine area, and in particular the need to include ngā iwi in decision making and to provide for maintenance and enhancement of the natural environment.
Key issues identified include the need to:
- Ensure that culturally significant sites and taonga are protected.
- Recognise the ancestral relationships and significance through engagement and a role for ngā iwi in decision making.
- Dispose of dredged material appropriately and minimise reclamation and earthworks.
- Use detailed cultural impact assessment in the future to better direct specific development proposals.
- Ensure access for whānau to maintain cultural practices including Waka ama.
Key issues in providing for Cultural Values include:
Current and future spatial issues
There is a need to identify where specific culturally sensitive sites are located within the Structure Plan area (and ensure there are mechanisms in place to protect these areas). Expand for detail:
| There is a need to identify where specific culturally sensitive sites are located within the Structure Plan area (and ensure there are mechanisms in place to protect these areas). |
| There is the opportunity to identify areas that could provide for environmental or social enhancement e.g. biodiversity restoration or cultural facilities. |
| There is a need to integrate cultural values and respect for historic and contemporary cultural use into all options for development at Port Tarakohe. |
Response to Issues
There are a range of responses that would address many of the issues identified in the Report.
