Te Ahi a Tamatea / Hanmer Springs Te Ao Hurihuri: The continual journey of change

Goal: To restore the Mauri of Te Ahi a Tamatea/Hanmer Springs through the restoration and protection of water, land and vegetation as part of a holistice worldview between Te Ao Māori and Te Ao Pākehā.

Rationale: Te Ahi a Tamatea/Hanmer Springs, a destination town of almost 1000 permanent residents sits in the mountainous region of the Hurunui district in Canterbury and under the hapu of Te Rūnanga o Kaikōura. A significant place of trade, restoration and heritage for the two worldviews of Māori and Pākehā in New Zealand, current trends see an increase in adventure park tourist activities lacking acknowledgement of significant cultural history.

Long association with the Hot Springs and an alpine aesthetic have drawn numerous visitors (up to 700,000/year). Various plans are being made for development but the town lacks a cohesive vision to take it successfully into the future. Colonial history is well recognised with statues and plaques marking historic events but there is little acknowledgement of Te Ao Māori culture. Surrounded by Outstanding Natural Landscapes2, this town needs a more balanced representation of history and culture along with a sense of kaitiaki3/guardianship. The journey of continual change can be guided to acknowledge the past as we move to the future.