Natural Resource Management Plan

Kai Tahu ki Otago have identified a range of objectives in their Natural Resource Management Plan (December 1995) to which local authorities and developers need to have regard. They are:

• Recognition of the spiritual and cultural significance of water to Kai Tahu, a value that binds the identity of the iwi to water, and protects the mauri of all water bodies;

• Recognition of wetland systems as an important source of mahika kai, habitat for native flora and fauna, and as a tool for the maintenance of water quality;

• Elimination of the discharge of human waste and other contaminants to water;

• Use of surveys and data collection systems to provide a comprehensive information base on water resources and threats to the life sustaining capacity of water; and

• Establishment of a management regime that identifies water quality and quantity standards consistent with Kai Tahu cultural and spiritual values.

source: Otago Water Plan