New Maniapoto Co-Lead to Guide Future Vision for Pureora Forest Park

A new Department of Conservation (DOC) initiative is placing iwi aspirations and whakapapa at the centre of long-term planning for Pureora Forest Park. Tama Blackburn, who identifies with Ngāti Maniapoto, Kinohaku, and Uekaha, has stepped into the role of Project Co-Lead for Pureora within DOC’s Maniapoto team. Reporting on the appointment, Waatea News describes Blackburn’s approach as that of a “weaver,” intended to unite the various voices and relationships connected to the ancient podocarp forest. Located west of Lake Taupō, Pureora Forest Park is a significant biodiversity stronghold, providing critical habitat for threatened native species such as kākā, kōkako, and kiwi. The project is currently in its “discovery phase,” focusing on listening to the aspirations of mana whenua and stakeholders rather than imposing pre-determined solutions. Blackburn is working alongside fellow Project Co-Lead Kiri Diamond (Tūwharetoa) to ensure the future management of the forest reflects the collective responsibility of its Treaty partners. The initiative involves extensive collaboration with iwi representatives from Te Nehenehenui, Raukawa, Te Kōtahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa, and Ngāti Hāua, as well as regional authorities including the Waikato River Authority and Te Awa Tupua. By gathering the different strands of knowledge and whakaaro from these groups, Blackburn aims to create a shared vision for the forest that functions like a metaphorical korowai for future generations. For Blackburn, the role represents a significant personal homecoming. Although raised in Taranaki, his work in the Maniapoto rohe has allowed him to deepen his understanding of his own whakapapa and reconnect with the landscapes of his ancestors. A former ranger with the Taranaki Maunga Project, Blackburn’s transition into this leadership role brings a mix of conservation experience and cultural grounding to the stewardship of one of Aotearoa’s most valued native environments.