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The Hoe Rangatiratanga portfolio focuses on empowering our Hapū through Crown engagement, legal advocacy, and land and resource restitution. It ensures that our rights as tangata whenua are recognised, protected, and upheld under Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi).

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A key area within this portfolio is Crown engagement and law, which involves active participation in government processes and understanding the legal frameworks that affect Hapū rights and interests. This includes advocating for the recognition of Te Tiriti rights and addressing both historical and ongoing treaty claims.

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Another major focus is MACA (Marine and Coastal Area) — the legal framework that defines rights and responsibilities in Aotearoa’s marine and coastal spaces under the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011. This work ensures the recognition and protection of customary rights, ancestral connections, and cultural practices associated with our moana and takutai.

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The Hoe Rangatiratanga portfolio advocates for Hapū rights in relation to marine and coastal resources — including fishing, gathering areas, and conservation. It involves working closely with authorities, engaging in resource management processes, and promoting equitable, sustainable practices that benefit our Hapū and wider communities.

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A further key area is land restitution, which seeks the return of all Crown-held lands within our rohe, including DOC reserves, public parks, and esplanade reserves. This mahi involves gathering historical and legal evidence, building strong arguments for land return, and engaging in negotiations with Crown and local agencies.

Through this work, Hoe Rangatiratanga aims to reclaim ancestral lands, restore kaitiakitanga, and enable cultural revitalisation, economic development, and hapū well-being. By reasserting our mana and responsibilities as kaitiaki, we strengthen our relationship with our whenua and uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.