Recent severe weather events have accelerated the need for urgent adaptation and managed retreat plans for many marae across Aotearoa. The process is often daunting, as marae represent more than just physical structures. they hold deep cultural connections to the land and the communities they serve.
Looking to the Past for Future Solutions
Dr. Akuhata Bailey-Winiata, a recent Waikato University PhD graduate, has researched historical examples of hapū and iwi that relocated in response to natural hazards. He suggests that these historical “gems” can provide essential support for modern decision-making.
According to Bailey-Winiata, recognizing that tūpuna have navigated these challenges previously can make the prospect of relocation less intimidating. He notes that bringing these examples to the forefront demonstrates that adaptation is not a new concept for Māori communities.
Using the Tūhourangi experience as a case study, Bailey-Winiata identified autonomy in decision-making and land gifting as critical elements. He explained that viewing land as part of a process rather than a commodity supported the relocation effort.
However, he cautioned that these discussions can be demanding due to “layers upon layers of mamae” and the challenges of navigating a “scary” global environment. He emphasizes the need to remain pragmatic and avoid shying away from these necessary conversations.
The Waka Hourua Framework
To facilitate better partnerships between government, councils, and Māori, Bailey-Winiata developed the Waka Hourua framework. Named after the double-hulled canoe, the model assigns one hull to tangata whenua and the other to tangata tiriti.
The framework suggests that while both groups may have separate “hulls,” they are heading in the same direction regarding climate change. The space between the hulls represents the partnership, where information, resources, and expertise are shared.
This model has since been adopted by the Aotearoa Society of Adaptation Professionals (ASAP) to guide their engagement with hapū and iwi.
Collaboration and Resourcing
Knowledge-sharing remains a priority for adaptation professionals. This month, approximately 80 Māori adaptation professionals met in Tauranga to discuss climate considerations for hapū and iwi, including a visit to Maketū to study a climate adaptation plan that won the New Zealand Planning Institute’s (NZPI) Best Practice Award.
Bailey-Winiata noted that while national legislation regarding adaptation frameworks from the MFE (Ministry for the Environment) is emerging, there is still a need for better connection across different scales, from whānau to national levels.
Regarding financial support, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka announced the Marae Emergency Response Fund in January. However, Ngātiwai iwi leader Aperahama Kerepeti-Edwards has stated that the government should provide ongoing support for marae.
Bailey-Winiata argued that resourcing discussions are vital because marae are often the first to provide shelter and support to their communities during natural hazard events. He noted the high number of local states of emergency in Aotearoa this year as evidence of the need for a broader support discussion.
Marae Currently Relocating
The practical need for retreat was highlighted in 2023 when multiple marae were damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle. In Hawke’s Bay, the Tāngoio and Petāne marae have been announced to receive government funding for relocation to safer ground.
relocations are currently underway in Te Tairāwhiti for five marae: Puketawai, Hinemaurea ki Mangatuna, Okuri, Takipū, and Rangatira, supported by government funding as of 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Waka Hourua framework?
It is a partnership model for councils and government working with hapū and iwi. It uses the metaphor of a double-hulled canoe, with one hull for tangata whenua and one for tangata tiriti, focusing on shared information and resources in the space between the hulls.
Which marae are currently moving to safer locations?
In Hawke’s Bay, Tāngoio and Petāne marae are receiving funding to move. In Te Tairāwhiti, the relocations of Puketawai, Hinemaurea ki Mangatuna, Okuri, Takipū, and Rangatira are currently underway.
How does historical research support current marae adaptation?
By identifying “gems” from the past, such as the relocation of the Tūhourangi iwi after the 1886 Tarawera eruption, research shows that Māori have successfully adapted to natural hazards before, making current relocation processes feel less daunting.
How can the balance between immediate emergency response and long-term climate planning be better managed to support vulnerable communities?
