GIVING EFFECT TO TE MANA O TE WAI - A KAUHAU FOR STORMWATER PROFESSIONALS

ABSTRACT

Ko te mauri, he mea huna ki te wai

The concept of Te Mana o te Wai holds profound significance in reshaping perspectives on water management, particularly for water professionals operating within diverse contexts. This paper explores the multifaceted implications and transformative potential inherent in giving effect to Te Mana o te Wai principles within the realm of water management.

Te Mana o te Wai signifies a paradigm shift, emphasizing the intrinsic value of water, its health, and well-being above utilitarian considerations. This shift necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional approaches among water professionals, challenging the industry's status quo.

This paper delves into the nuanced layers of Te Mana o te Wai's implementation within the purview of water professionals' responsibilities. It dissects the hierarchy of obligations, emphasizing the prioritization of water health and basic human needs over consumptive uses like irrigation, reshaping the decision-making landscape.

The integration of Māori knowledge (mātauranga Māori) into water management practices forms a pivotal aspect of Te Mana o te Wai. The incorporation of diverse systems of values and knowledge, notably Māori cultural principles, demands a reconfiguration of strategies and operational frameworks for water professionals.

Furthermore, this paper navigates practical implications through case studies exemplifying how Te Mana o te Wai manifests in real-world water infrastructure projects. It explores initiatives embracing holistic water treatment approaches, engaging with Mana Whenua/Māori in decision-making processes, and fostering innovative methodologies aligned with Māori principles.

The challenges and readiness of the water industry in embracing Te Mana o te Wai principles serve as a focal point, highlighting the need for adaptation, collaboration, and the adoption of new perspectives. Addressing these challenges involves a collective effort by water professionals, policy-makers, and indigenous communities to facilitate meaningful engagement and bridge the gap between theory and practice.

In conclusion, this paper elucidates the profound impact of Te Mana o te Wai on the water industry, urging water professionals to embrace a holistic approach centered on environmental sustainability, cultural sensitivity, and social responsibility. It invites a comprehensive reevaluation of practices, fostering a collaborative environment that ensures the vitality and well-being of water for present and future generations.

Ko ahau te wai, ko te wai ahau