THE BEGINNING

Original surveyed Rakataua Block in 1867.

Have not figured out why the name on the map shows the block name as Rakautawa...yet.

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IMPORTANT:

The views expressed here are of the writer only

Nga Wai Ariki te Hapu
Ngati Apa te Iwi
Whangaehu te Marae
Rangitahuahua te Wharepuni
Te Aroha te Wharekai
Tena Koutou

Whangaehu te Awa
Ruapehu to Maunga
Kurahaupo te Waka
Tena Koutou, Tena Koutou, Tena Koutou Katoa


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I should be smiling when I think about the beach...others do, but I don't.

I should be taking my kids out there fishing and eeling and camping...others do, but I don't.

I should be though...

There is a rumbling on the horizon and its been slowly biding its time. Watching and waiting...

INTRODUCTION

Rakautaua 9 is made up of 33 shares between its 843 beneficiaries (2004 Maori Land Court records).

The Paki Whanau Trust owns two shares.

The balance is dispersed between the other 842 owners.

I want to ensure my Whanau interests are protected with the opportunity to enhance and open the area to all.

I want us all to come back.

Its a beach by a river-mouth...and we don't use it. What is wrong with us!

I read a book on the Maori Battalion recently . I liked one paragraph where it said

“Maori success and vitality was his strength and control over what happened in his life. Any deleterious external influence that penetrated his range of control signified mate, or weakness, on his part.”...that should be us !!

MISSION

The result I want is simple:

I want to think about the beach and smile

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

* Protect the property - The property is prone to erosion and measures need to be put in place to protect it for future generations. Promote conservation and control of sand blow-holes and flooding.

* Set up a community facility or camping ground - It would be a positive step to have a presence of some kind on the property. An eco-friendly concept that allows beneficiaries and others to stay and enjoy the river and beach is important.

* Enhance the well-being of Rakauataua 9
Look for opportunities to enhance the well-being of all Whanau who enjoy the beach.

The map is part of the last property valuation report prepared by Goudie & Associates 25 July 1997.