Waitākere rāhui Forest and Bird Waitakere

Over the past decade Kauri dieback disease has spread at an alarming rate through Te Wao Nui a Tiriwa / the Waitākere forest. The forest is dying and could face ecological collapse and localised extinctions within a generation unless drastic action is undertaken.

For Te Kawerau ā Maki who are the mana whenua of Waitākere, the death of our forest is an existential threat. It would also see the loss of a nationally significant taonga (treasure) for the people of New Zealand.

Current estimates show that the rate of infection has more than doubled over the past few years with at least 19% of all kauri within the forest showing signs of infection. In addition, approximately 58% of kauri forest larger than 5 ha is now symptomatic. The evidence has established that the main vector of the disease is human movement through tracking contaminated soil. The current management methods have not worked.

The Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act (2008) directs the Government and Auckland Council to ensure the protection and enhancement of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area. Te Tiriti o Waitangi requires the Government to protect tangata whenua and our taonga.

The health of the forest is reaching an ecological tipping point, and Te Kawerau ā Maki will act to protect the forest for future generations. Te Kawerau ā Maki have decided to place a rāhui (customary prohibition) over the Waitākere forest to prevent and control human access until effective and appropriate research, planning and remedial work is completed to ensure the risks are neutralised or controlled.