An oil company's application to build a jet park next to a marae in Mt Maunganui has been withdrawn during a court process. It's a win for Whareroa Marae, which has been calling for a managed retreat of industry nearby - saying that it's polluting the air, and water, near their marae. The marae, of Ngāi Te Rangi hapū Ngāti Kuku and Ngāi Tukairangi - opposed the resource consent applications by Timaru Oil services to build four 20 metre high tanks to store jet fuel and diesel. The consent had been declined, and the decision challenged in the Court of Appeal - but that challenge has now been dropped. Whareroa Marae environment spokesperson Joel Ngātuere joins Susana Lei'ataua.
Whareroa Marae environmental spokesperson Joel Ngatuere wants heavy industry to move from the area. Photo: RNZ / Jean Bell
