Ngati Kahu o Torongare

A Whangārei-based hapū battling the development of houses on a sacred site are concerned the landowners will cut down ancient Puriri trees that are significant to mana whenua.

The judges said it was clear, under the council’s own rules, that consent should have been refused.

It is the second time in 30 years the hapū has fought a subdivision on the same piece of land, which it has always maintained is hugely significant to Māori.

An annual survey by Ngāti Kahu o Torongare in Northland is showing the natural habitats for tuna are still suffering the effects of excessive landuse.