Māori Freshwater Fisheries Conference 2026
Join Te Wai Māori at the 2026 Māori Freshwater Fisheries Conference to fire up your motivation, learn from like-minded kaitiaki and future-proof the important network of kaitiaki, researchers and environmental kaimahi working to protect our freshwater taonga.
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When: Rātū 3 & Rāapa 4 Whiringa-ā-rangi / Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 November
Where: Toitoi Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre, Heretaunga / Hastings
Gathering to protect freshwater taonga for 10 years
The Māori Freshwater Fisheries Conference is now approaching its seventh huihuinga. Since 2015, we have travelled all over Aotearoa, from Whangārei to Whakatū to gather, share and support the crucial network of kaitiaki working with freshwater taonga.
Our Kaiwhakataki 2026
Rawiri Faulkner – Conference MC
Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngai Te Rangi
We are pleased to welcome Rawiri Faulkner Te Wai Māori Chair back to the stage as co-MC for our two days in Heretaunga! Rawiri is Chair of Te Wai Māori Trust and holds the role of Pou Toa Matarau at Te Runanga o Toa Rangatira. Rawiri has expertise in environmental governance and also a wealth of knowledge in the interface between central/local government and iwi Māori.
Pahia Turia – Conference MC
Ngā Wairiki, Ngāti Apa, Whanganui, Ngā Rauru and Ngāti Tūwharetoa
Pahia Turia Te Wai Māori Director and Chair of Te Ohu Kaimoana will once again grace the stage alongside Rawiri as co-MC of this years’ huihuinga. Pahia has been involved in Iwi governance for over 25 years and is currently the chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki – Ngāti Apa. During his time in this role, he was responsible for negotiating through their difficult coastline agreement, and was also involved in Treaty Settlement negotiations resulting in significant freshwater fisheries for his people.
