Tūhourangi Tribal Authority and Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi are proud to announce the Government has approved a $3 million grant for the Waimangu Geothermal Research Programme, a joint initiative led by our two iwi to better understand and protect the Waimangu geothermal system.
This is a significant milestone for both iwi and the culmination of considerable work to establish a research programme grounded in our shared responsibilities as mana whenua.
The Waimangu geothermal system formed following the 1886 eruption of Tarawera, it is recognised as the world’s youngest geothermal system. While this whenua has been studied at the surface, much remains unknown about what lies beneath it, how the wider geothermal system functions and how it’s different features and surrounding geothermal systems may be connected.
What Will the Research Involve?
The programme will bring together existing scientific information, historical research and Mātauranga Māori with new scientific research.
Working with specialist researchers, including Earth Sciences New Zealand, the programme will seek to improve our understanding of the geothermal system through monitoring, scientific research and modelling.
The research programme is staged:
Stage One will review existing information, identify knowledge gaps, acquire additional data, refine the conceptual model, assess potential research well locations and progress the necessary monitoring and permissions.
Stage Two would only proceed if supported by the Stage One findings and the required approvals, and could involve shallow research wells and associated testing. The location of any research wells have yet to be determined.
The research programme will be guided by a clear set of principles: protecting the integrity, mauri and natural functioning of the geothermal system; supporting cultural reconnection and access; and considering commercial and other opportunities where consistent with the first two principles.
Alongside the research programme, we propose to develop a Te Ahi Tipua Framework to give broader effect to these principles across the Waimangu geothermal system and to guide the Board’s research priorities, activities and decision-making.
Any physical research activities will be carefully planned and undertaken in stages, with particular consideration given to the protection of the integrity, stability and natural functioning of the system.
Research activities will be informed by appropriate scientific and cultural assessments, including potential risks and cumulative effects on geothermal features, the surrounding taiao and cultural values. Activities will also be planned to minimise disruption to existing tourism operations, cultural access and other activities within the wider Waimangu area.
Kia maumahara tātou! This is a research programme. It is not an approval or commitment to geothermal development or commercial extraction.
Our priority is to build the knowledge needed to support responsible,responsible, informed and long-term stewardship of this taonga.
Joint Iwi Leadership and Governance
Recognising the customary responsibilities and interests of our hapū and whānau, our two Iwi Trust Boards have come together to establish and lead this research programme.
Tūhourangi Tribal Authority and Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi have therefore established ‘Waimangu Geothermal Research Programme Limited’ as a dedicated company to oversee the research programme on behalf of both iwi. Both iwi trusts retain equal ownership and shareholder oversight, with each iwi appointing three directors to the company’s six-member Board.
The appointed directors are:
TŪHOURANGI TRIBAL AUTHORITY: Kirikowhai Mikaere, Rangitihi Pene, Deliah Balle
TE MANA O NGĀTI RANGITIHI: Leith Comer, Graham Pryor, Linda Falwasser
The respective Iwi Trust Boards retain their shareholder responsibilities, while the newly established company Board will oversee the governance and delivery of the research programme. This joint approach enables us to bring our knowledge, responsibilities and expertise together while maintaining the distinct interests and accountabilities of each iwi.
Protecting our Mātauranga, Knowledge and Information
An important part of the programme will be ensuring that the mātauranga, knowledge, research data and intellectual property generated through this work are appropriately protected and governed.
Our intention is to establish a Mana Whenua Data Governance Framework that recognises the responsibilities of mana whenua in determining how information is held, accessed, used and shared. This includes respecting Mātauranga Māori, protecting culturally sensitive information and ensuring that valuable scientific knowledge is managed responsibly on behalf of both iwi.
While the research is expected to contribute valuable knowledge for wider public benefit, we also recognise that some information requires careful stewardship. The detailed arrangements will be established through the programme’s funding, research and governance agreements.
Where To From Here?
With funding approval now confirmed, our immediate focus will be on establishing the governance and operating arrangements for the company, and working with our research partners to confirm the detailed programme.
We are committed to keeping our whānau informed as this work progresses and providing opportunities to share knowledge, ask questions and contribute to the programme.
This is an important achievement for both our iwi. It provides an opportunity to strengthen our understanding of Waimangu, build our collective capability and ensure mana whenua remain at the forefront of research into our whenua taurikura, and extraordinary taonga.
We acknowledge everyone who has contributed to bringing this kaupapa to fruition. Above all, we see this as an investment in our people and our rohe, building the knowledge that will help us fulfil our responsibilities to Waimangu and the generations who will follow us.
Mauri ora.
To download or view the official Tūhourangi and Ngāti Rangitihi statement, click here.
To view the Government announcement, click here.