The RMA and planning documents

Part 2 of the RMA, through sections 5 to 8, makes specific reference to cultural values, the

relationship of Maori to land and water, kaitiakitanga (guardianship by mana whenua) , and the treaty of Waitangi. An application must meet the purpose of the RMA, which incorporates these elements for consideration. Iwi and council planning documents provide guidance, through policies and objectives, about what needs to be considered in relation to Te Ātiawa values, in order to satisfy Part 2 of the RMA.

Some of the sensitive areas of Te Ātiawa can be identified using the council maps (Statutory Acknowledgement Areas of Te Tau Ihu) with the layer labelled ‘Te Ātiawa o Te Waka-a-Māui’.