Media release
10 May 2016

Focus on wellbeing of Manukau Harbour

A new event will identify key issues and outcomes that will impact and restore the mauri, or life-force, of New Zealand’s second largest harbour, the Manukau.

Instigated by the Manukau Harbour Forum, the Manukau Harbour Forum Symposium is focused on the harbour’s future, and on real actions that can contribute to the restoration of its mauri. It will consider proposed and current projects, innovative approaches and smart ways of acting to create a new reality.

The event will acknowledge the Manukau Harbour’s significance, and to present traditional knowledge, acquired over generations, alongside scientific knowledge. Restoration of the Manukau Harbour’s mauri will be a key focus.

It is organised by the Manukau Harbour Forum, a committee of Auckland Council represented by the nine local boards that surround the harbour.

“We wanted to bring the message of the Manukau Harbour Forum to the wider Auckland community, to share visions and identify priorities for protection and development of this taonga (treasure),” says Jill Naysmith, Chair of the Manukau Harbour Forum.

“The harbour is a local, regional and national taonga, and it deserves our attention and long term, cohesive planning between mana whenua and all groups of stakeholders.”

The Manukau Harbour Forum Symposium will include an exhibition of mana whenua artists, depicting their connections to the harbour with copies of an original artwork by Charlotte Graham to be presented to each of the three Mauri o te Moana award recipients. The awards recognise mana whenua, individuals, stakeholders or community groups for their work to protect and restore the mauri of the harbour.
The Manukau Harbour Forum Symposium will be held on Friday 10 June at Ngā Tohu o Uenuku (Māngere Arts Centre) and is free to attend. Booking is essential. You can find out more, reserve a seat, and nominate someone for an award, by visiting www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/manukauharbourforum.

ENDS

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