Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 17 August 2026 Source: Department of Conservation and Te Ngāi Tū Āhuriri
The decision follows careful consideration of mana, rangatiratanga, tikanga, and the responsibility of the hapū as kaitiaki of mahinga kai within their takiwā.
Secretary of the Ngāi Tūāhuriri Tangata Tiaki committee, Te Marino Lenihan, says the decision was not taken lightly and reflects the committee’s concern to ensure that customary rights remained firmly grounded in the customary responsibilities that accompany them.
“We established a customary season five years ago so that our elders could fish their rivers safely with their mokopuna, passing on traditions and strengthening their connections to each other and to our rivers. Unfortunately, we have experienced ongoing abuse and many of our whānau fishers still don’t feel safe.
“It’s important that we take some time now to reflect on what we have seen and learned over these last five years, consider how we can best respond, and then reset our customary season so that it can better uphold the integrity of our tikanga and mana,” he says.
The committee knows that the decision will be disappointing for some and welcomed by others.
“The rāhui provides us the opportunity to work on our processes and protocols, engage with our whānau, and together uphold the values and responsibilities entrusted to us by our ancestors,” Te Marino Lenihan says.
Department of Conservation Mahaanui Operations Manager Andy Thompson says the placing of the rāhui is a result of a robust process within the hapū and with DOC and other responsible agencies.
“I have huge respect for what the hapū has done to uphold their customary rights and what they represent. It’s a reflection of the deep commitment their leaders have to tikanga and the customary responsibilities that come with customary rights. We will work to ensure this is respected, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with the hapū,” Andy Thompson says.
With two weeks to go before the regular whitebait season begins on 1 September, Andy Thompson asks that whitebait fishers approach this season with respect for each other and for the rivers that sustain this incredible fishery.
“Most white baiters follow the rules which is brilliant, but others don’t, so we will patrol rivers again this year to check in on spots around Canterbury,” Andy says.
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Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/17/ngai-tuahuriri-places-rahui-over-customary-whitebait-season-until-further-notice/