The sacred and revered station
Te pou o te whakatupua
Te pou o te whakatawhito
Te pou o Ranginui e tū nei!
The celestial post
The ancient post
The pillar of universal order!
Te Pou Tupua Appointed
27 October 2021
The presence of Covid-19 in Aotearoa last year meant the inaugural term of Te Pou Tupua received an extension through to the first half of 2021.
Through a series of hui including Te Rūnanga o Te Awa Tupua, a Te Awa Tupua leadership hui and a virtual meeting with the relevant Minister, the appointment was made jointly by both the iwi with interests in the Whanganui River (including Whanganui Iwi) and by the Crown.
This symbolises not only the Treaty partnership between Iwi and the Crown, but also the Crown’s ongoing responsibility to uphold Te Awa Tupua.
Turama Hawira and Keria Ponga will jointly perform the role of Te Pou Tupua for the next three years. Both are considered as possessing the leadership qualities and aptitude to perform this role.


Acknowledgement of Kahurangi Tariana Turia
The depth of experience and knowledge that Kahurangi (Dame) Tariana Turia has contributed has been invaluable in this inaugural term 2017-2021. Together with the iwi of Te Awa Tupua, we acknowledge her leadership and dedication to upholding Tupua te Kawa
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