 |
Chris Whaiapu, Rangitāne, at the reserve
near where six people drowned |
A group representing 80 iwi is
calling for greater legal recognition of rāhui, similar to Covid-19 restrictions, to prevent people from ignoring them.
The temporary prohibitions are often put in place over bodies of water when someone drowns as a sign of respect. The mauri or life-force of an area is thought to be affected when there has been a loss of life.A rāhui can also be put in place to protect areas from damage, or preserve and replenish marine life.
The Iwi Chairs Forum has made a direct approach to the Prime Minister, calling for rāhui to be given greater legal recognition.
