Iwi Environmental Management Plan

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Mutunga’s Iwi Environmental Management Plan (IEMP) is a key strategic document that guides how the iwi protects and manages its natural, cultural, and historic resources. It reflects their responsibilities of kaitiakitanga, supports engagement with local authorities, and preserves knowledge for future generations.

The IEMP is used to identify, protect, and manage areas of cultural significance particularly ancestral landscapes and wāhi tapu.

The plan sets out issues and policies that guide how Ngāti Mutunga exercise kaitiakitanga over land, water, biodiversity, and coastal ecosystems. It strengthens their ability to participate meaningfully in environmental decision‑making and asserts iwi values in resource use.

It also acknowledges long-standing relationships with rivers such as the Onaero, Urenui, Mimitangiatua, Waitoetoe, Waiau, and the upper Waitara—each holding deep spiritual significance that informs environmental care.

The IEMP provides a framework for how councils and external agencies should consult and work with Ngāti Mutunga. This includes:

• Recognising the iwi as a kaitiaki authority,
• Ensuring iwi values and cultural landscapes are considered in planning processes,
• Helping territorial authorities understand iwi priorities when setting environmental rules or assessing consents.