South Taranaki Iwi Seek Practical Partnership Growth in Council Agreement Review

South Taranaki iwi are advocating for a more specific and practical evolution of their partnership with local government, seeking to be involved earlier in decision-making processes. As reported by the Whanganui Chronicle, the South Taranaki District Council and four iwi agencies—Te Kaahui o Rauru, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Ruanui, Te Korowai o Ngāruahine, and Te Kāhui o Taranaki—are currently reviewing their landmark agreement, He Pou Tikanga. At a council workshop on Wednesday, 24 September 2026, Ngāti Ruanui policy manager Graham Young emphasized that the existing two-year-old agreement should serve as a starting point for deeper collaboration. Young noted that iwi should be positioned at the "front end" of policy and project development before council positions are finalized, ensuring that mana whenua are recognized not just as stakeholders, but as Treaty partners and kaitiaki. The review highlighted the vital role of hapū as the traditional holders of mana whenua. Taranaki iwi representative Peter Moeahu expressed pride in the current strength of the relationship with the council but noted the need for even stronger links with hapū. Te Korowai o Ngāruahine tumu whakarae Te Aorangi Dillon echoed this, explaining that her organization is guided by hapū and marae, and encouraged the council to move away from a "one-stop-shop" approach to engagement. South Taranaki Mayor Phil Nixon expressed his support for the progress made, stating his hope that any future local body reforms would recognize the foundations built between the council and iwi. Despite shifting legislative environments, both iwi leaders and council representatives indicated a shared commitment to growing the relationship and establishing a framework for shared accountability and joint decision-making.