Following a meeting of key stakeholders this week, an agreement has been reached to ensure public access to Lake Whakamaru Reserve is maintained during the land occupation currently taking place on part of the site.

A hui involving the occupiers from Ngāti Te Kohera, Raukawa, South Waikato District Council and the NZ Police found a collective willingness to work together in good faith.

Each party recognised their role:

• Mana Whenua – to exercise kaitiakitanga, maintain tikanga, and ensure the kaupapa remains peaceful.

• Raukawa – to awhina within their iwi mandate and responsibility to ngā uri o Ōngaroto and Mōkai marae.

• Council – to uphold regulatory responsibilities, maintain safe access to public spaces, and ensure operational continuity.

• NZ Police – to ensure public safety and peaceful protest.

There is also a shared understanding that Lake Whakamaru Reserve is public land and that public access must remain open.

The whānau occupying the site have formalised a code of conduct regarding their activity at the Reserve, including collaboration with Council to make sure contractors can carry out scheduled maintenance and operations.

Council has issued dispensation for the group to maintain a fire (or Ahi Kā) within their occupation area. The presence of uncontained fires remains strictly prohibited for the general public.

The Reserve remains open for day visits, which includes access to the water by vehicle or on foot. While parts of the camping area also remain open, visitors are warned that the area is more crowded than usual and space is limited.

© Scoop Media