INFORMATION ABOUT
IWI ENGAGEMENT
Iwi engagement is essential in the development of onshore and offshore wind farms to ensure cultural respect, legal compliance, environmental stewardship, community support, economic equity, and improved project outcomes. It is a fundamental aspect of responsible and sustainable development in Aotearoa.
The Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) establishes a framework for the partnership between Māori and the Crown. Under this treaty, the Crown has obligations to consult with iwi on matters that affect their lands and interests. Engaging iwi in wind farm projects helps fulfil these legal obligations, ensuring that Māori rights and interests are considered and upheld.
Guidelines for engagement with Māori can be viewed at Māori Engagement Guidelines.
Cultural Significance and Heritage
Iwi, or Māori tribes, hold significant cultural and historical ties to the land and sea in Aotearoa New Zealand. Their traditions, stories, and practices are deeply rooted in specific geographical locations. Engaging with iwi ensures that these cultural and heritage considerations are respected and preserved. This engagement helps in identifying and mitigating potential impacts on culturally significant sites, landscapes, and seascapes.
Effective Engagement
Effective and early engagement with Māori is key to producing better quality outcomes and realising Māori Crown partnerships. It will allow you to gather on the ground information, views, reactions and strengthens the legitimacy of decisions in relation to the wind farm. Engaging early with Māori contributes to the development of effective wind energy project outcomes and helps deliver a successful project.
Environmental Stewardship
Iwi have a deep connection to the environment and often possess extensive knowledge about local ecosystems and sustainable practices. Their involvement can provide valuable insights into environmental stewardship, helping to identify potential ecological impacts of wind farm projects and ensuring that development is sustainable and environmentally responsible.
Community Support and Social License
Building a strong relationship with iwi can foster community support for wind farm projects. When iwi is actively involved and their concerns are addressed, there is likely to be greater acceptance and support from the wider community. This social license to operate is essential for the long-term success and smooth operation of the projects.
Economic and Social Benefits
Engagement with iwi can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes, including economic opportunities and social benefits for Māori communities. This can include employment opportunities, investment in local infrastructure, and potential revenue sharing from the wind farm operations. Ensuring that iwi benefit economically and socially from these projects helps in building equitable and inclusive developments.
Enhanced Project Design and Implementation
Iwi engagement can contribute to more effective project design and implementation. Their local knowledge can inform site selection, construction methods, and operational practices, leading to better outcomes in terms of efficiency, environmental impact, and community relations. Collaborative planning with iwi can also identify and mitigate potential issues early in the process, reducing the risk of delays and conflicts.
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If you’d like to discuss anything related to Wind Energy with our team we’d love to hear from you.