Politicians Asked to Take a Stand

Our kaupapa of protecting Taranaki's taiao - natural environment for future generations was highlighted to five key Members of Parliament. 

Former Sustainable Taranaki Chairperson Boyd Benton spoke at the Ngā Kaiwhakatere o Taranaki meeting in New Plymouth organised by local Labour MP Glen Bennett who invited fellows MPs Grant Robertson, Dr Megan Woods, Michael Wood, and Andrew Little to the meeting. 

As a community representative, Boyd shared how society is changing our relationship with the environment, from valuing money and trade to tikanga values. 

“Our unique heritage of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) is a shift in thinking from resource to seeing the taiao as human. Like a cousin, to be supported, cared for, cherished with respect and mana," Boyd says. 
The meeting coincided with Labour's hui and gave six members the opportunity to update MPs on the group's long-term regional 2050 roadmap developed by the people of Taranaki.  

The group wants more Government funding, which MPs questioned how the proposed initiative would create job opportunities in Taranaki.  

"Product stewardship policies are great but they’re slow in coming, and protect existing companies that don’t value our environment,” says Boyd. 

“I asked the MPs to be courageous with change as there are many start-up businesses that aren’t viable until these changes come into effect. It’s crucial we get funding so important dialogue can continue in our community." 

Ngā Kaiwhakatere o Taranaki members who attended:

• Arun Chaudhari, Chamber of Commerce CEO

• Justine Gilliland, Venture Taranaki

• Wharehoka Wano, Taranaki Iwi

• Jen Natoli, Etu

• Allie Hemara-Wahanui, WITT