This December, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia has reached two major milestones, each reflecting our enduring commitment to cultural preservation and regional leadership. These achievements not only strengthen our whakapapa but also position us as kaitiaki of the whenua and drivers of sustainable development within our rohe.
The Return of Kororipo Pā
On Tuesday, 3rd December, at Whitiora Marae in Te Tii, Ngāti Rēhia joined in a historic ceremony to celebrate the Crown’s formal offer to return Kororipo Pā to Ngāpuhi. This momentous occasion was the result of years of advocacy and dedication to restoring this significant wāhi tapu to its rightful kaitiaki.
Kororipo Pā holds profound historical importance, having once been under the stewardship of renowned rangatira such as Hongi Hika and Tareha. This site symbolises the strength, resilience, and mana of Ngāpuhi, serving as a cornerstone of our cultural heritage. The return of Kororipo Pā represents not only the restoration of a sacred space but also a step towards reconciliation and the honouring of our shared history.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported this kaupapa. As we finalise the official transfer, our focus remains on preserving and protecting Kororipo Pā for future generations to ensure its legacy endures.
Te Aro Manatu Memorandum of Understanding
On Wednesday, 11th December, another significant milestone was achieved in Kaikohe at the Far North District Council Chambers. Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia and Te Kaunihera o Te Hiku o Te Ika signed the Te Aro Manatu Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), affirming Ngāti Rēhia’s role as Ahi Kā within Te Riu o Ngāti Rēhia. This agreement ensures that the Far North District Council’s work aligns with our hapū’s aspirations and priorities.
This MOU reflects a shared commitment to integrating Ngāti Rēhia’s cultural, environmental, and social values into regional planning and development. It underscores our leadership and dedication to ensuring that decisions impacting our whenua and people are made collaboratively and with cultural integrity.
As the first of 14 similar agreements planned across Te Hiku o Te Ika, this MOU sets a precedent for meaningful partnerships between hapū and local government. We take pride in leading this initiative and look forward to the positive outcomes it will bring for our rohe.
Looking Ahead
These milestones are a testament to Ngāti Rēhia’s resilience, vision, and leadership. As we celebrate these achievements, we also acknowledge the collective efforts that made them possible. We remain committed to protecting our cultural heritage, advocating for our people, and fostering sustainable development for future generations.