Taranaki iwi have spoken out against intensive farming in the region, in a new guide developed to help environmental management.
Mount Taranaki Photo: 123RF
The criticism came in a document Taiao, Taiora - the Taranaki Iwi Environmental Management Plan.
The guide is intended to help decision-making by iwi, marae, pa, hapū and whānau, as kaitiaki of the Taranaki rohe.
It draws attention to what it calls contamination of whenua, or land, from cropping, intensive farming, and the use of agrichemicals and fertilisers.
The document said farming practices lead to soil and water contamination and degradation, and noted a lack of biodiversity in pasture land.
"Contamination of soil poses a threat to the health of Taranaki iwi and local community, to soil structure, productivity, and sustainability, and to the natural balance of endemic land-based ecosystems," the document said.
Te Kāhui o Taranaki Iwi chairperson Leanne Horo said the strategy marked an important step towards developing a clear understanding between the iwi and local authorities on matters concerning the natural environment.
"Local authorities can use Taiao, Taiora to guide their changes, reviews and development of district and regional plans and statements so Taranaki iwi values can be properly recognised, provided for and honoured," Ms Horo said.
