On Sunday 7 September, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Waewae and Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio joined as Poutini Ngāi Tahu, to help the Minister of Conservation, Dr Nick Smith launch and open Te Tai o Poutini marine reserves.
There are five reserves in total, with 160 square kilometres of inland coastal seashore permanently protected, in a similar way to scenic reserves on land. They were ‘officially opened’ with a representative unveiling and blessing at Punakaiki.
Poutini Ngāi Tahu (Waewae and Makaawhio) pose on the beach after the official opening at Punakaiki.