The center of the North Island, iwi Ngāti Rangi is partnering with the Ministry of Conservation on environmental projects that will create more local jobs.

Te Kumete o Paerangi President Tomairangi Mareikura said the partnership between Ngāti Rangi and the Department of Conservation (DoC) will support Karioi Rāhui’s continuing care through the Jobs for Nature program.

It will enable Ruapehu WorX to create pathways to sustainable employment in the rohe to assist with the conservation work required for the continued protection and maintenance of Karioi Rāhui (an ecological restoration project on the southern slopes of Mount Ruapehu) and the Whangaehu watershed.

The work will include pest management and weed eradication over nearly 14,000 ha, home to pekapeka (bats), kiwis and other native flora and fauna, in a location of importance. cultural, wāhi tapu, for Ngāti Rangi.

“This partnership with DoC allows us to continue our pāhake’s legacy in a meaningful way,” said Mareikura.

“Embodying the tiakitanga of our mountain to sea whenua has been woven into our fabric as Ngāti Rangi since time immemorial. This investment in our rohe will allow us to take one step closer to realizing the vision sparked by our Matua Colin Richards, Matua Richard Pirere, Matua Keith Woods and the many others who have stood up for our mahi within te ao Tūroa. “

Ruapehu WorX Operational Director Kemp Dryden said the partnership would create more local jobs for the local population and “supports our goal for our people to be active custodians of all our whenua under the watchful eye of Koro Ruapehu” .