The Whanganui River is a living being that nourishes and sustains the land and the people both physically and spiritually from the Mountains to the Sea. As our people say, 'When the River is well, we are well.'

For decades, people in past governments have rejected this notion and have treated the River as a commodity, overriding our concerns and taking from the River, causing harm to our waterways and ecosystems.

Through the landmark Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River Claims Settlement) Act 2017, the river has its own voice. It is calling on local and central government and river users to view it holistically, as a living and indivisible whole.

In Te Awa Tupua, everyone has a place. And we must work together to keep the River clean and healthy, so that we may maintain our special connection, and so our children and whānau can enjoy it safely for generations to come.

For more information about Te Awa Tupua and our story click here or to get in touch click here