On February 1, dozens of whānau came together in Waihōpai, Invercargill, to learn more about whenua Māori at one of our information clinics.

Whenua Māori Senior Advisor, Andrea de Vries (Kai Tahu, Kati Māmoe, Waitaha), says the focus of this clinic was to provide an introduction to whenua Māori.

The clinic covered succession and management structures on Māori land, and highlighted useful tools that whānau can use for research, such as www.tupu.nz.

“Whānau were very engaged and there was plenty of kōrero flowing. We had kaumātua, trustees and newbies to this kaupapa so a diverse group all sharing their whakaaro and experiences as well,” she says.

Andrea was pleased with the great turnout as numbers were much higher than anticipated.

“This speaks to the need for resources and information that will support the landowner journey and enable whānau to exercise their rights as landowners and kaitiaki of their whenua.”

Andrea will be hosting the next free whenua Māori clinic for landowners in Waihōpai on Friday, 8 March. For more information email whenua-tewaipounamu@tpk.govt.nz.

You can find more information about our whenua kaupapa on our website.