Tai Tū Moana
Our Purpose
Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea are proud to lead Tai Tū Moana - a collaborative initiative working with the Aotea Great Barrier Local Board and local environmental groups who share our deep commitment to caring for the moana.
Under the guidance of the Tai Tū Moana Steering Group, and with kaitiakitanga as our guiding principle, we work to protect the ecological health, cultural values, and economic resilience of Aotea and its surrounding waters. This approach reflects the mana and responsibilities of Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea as kaitiaki of these taonga.
Our first priority is addressing exotic caulerpa, a widespread and damaging marine invasive species, focusing on the waters directly surrounding Aotea. We recognise that the management of marine invasive species will evolve over time. The Tai Tū Moana Steering Group, under the direction of Ngāti Rehua-Ngātiwai ki Aotea Trust Board, will lead this work, ensuring that our decisions are grounded in tikanga and the long-term wellbeing of the moana.
Tai Tū Moana - Our Strategic Plan
Coming Soon!
Our Work
Over the past year, Tai Tū Moana has delivered an extensive programme of in-water and land-based activities focused on monitoring and managing exotic caulerpa across Aotea.
In-Water Activities
ROV Surveillance:
Conducted widespread underwater drone (ROV) monitoring across Aotea’s coastline, including Whangaparapara, Port Fitzroy, Katherine Bay, Rakitu, Kaitoke, Tryphena, and other key sites. Over 36 hours of video footage and 700+ recordings were collected. Surveillance helped confirm safe anchoring areas, detect new infestations, and monitor known sites. Coverage extended into previously unsurveyed areas on both the east and west coasts of Aotea.
Diver-Led Surveillance and Treatment:
Partnered with Marine & Environmental Field Services (MEFS) to conduct intensive diver surveys at Kaiaraara Bay, Man of War Passage, Okupe, and Tryphena Harbour. Monitored the spread and recession of exotic caulerpa, and verified that some infestations had naturally receded, reducing the need for chemical treatment.
Land-Based Activities
Capacity Building
Supported the training of two mana whenua divers to ADAS commercial standard, building local expertise and creating employment pathways in marine management.
Partnerships and Programme Delivery
Strengthened collaboration with Auckland Council and MPI, delivering initiatives such as the Summer Kaimanaaki/Ambassador Programme to raise community awareness about exotic caulerpa and Controlled Area Notice restrictions.
Systems and Technology
Established a GIS mapping system to support ongoing monitoring and invested in an underwater ROV for iwi-led surveillance.
Community Engagement
Participated in local wānanga and events like the Ngāti Rehua–Ngātiwai ki Aotea Taiao Wānanga and Ecology Vision Festival, collecting community insights on response effectiveness and future treatment options.
Strategic and Operational Development
Contributed to the development of an Operations Plan and prepared for the upcoming annual strategic review.