We are humbled to stand together, as Te Pou Tupua, tasked with upholding the status of Te Awa Tupua.

Established by Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River Claims Settlement) Act 2017, we are mindful of our legislative status, through Te Pā Auroa nā Te Awa Tupua.  Our origins stretch back to the Whanganui River Deed of Settlement (Ruruku Whakatupua) signed in 2014.
 
While our role and the office of Te Pou Tupua is established by statute, we are here to represent and advocate for the interests of Te Awa Tupua.
 
As Te Pou Tupua, we are two people presenting as one. Te Pou Tupua is a singular role which we present through a shared delivery.

Te Awa Tupua is enshrined in law, but it is up to us all to develop a strategy of relearning, inclusion, courage and of humility to the innate values of the River, Tupua Te Kawa. In doing so we will achieve the resilience necessary as a river community to protect the health and wellbeing of our sacred awa.
 
Whether we whakapapa to Te Awa Tupua, have been elected onto statutory bodies, or have been identified as decisions makers in the design and implementation of Te Heke Ngahuru ki Te Awa Tupua, all of us have a primal connection, a heart-strong association to our beautiful river.