Mayor welcomes hikoi protesting Rotorua Eastern Arterial proposal
RDC director Kaupapa Maori, Mauriora Kingi (standing) welcomes marchers to Council.
Around 300 people marched to the Rotorua District Council Civic Centre this morning (24 June) from Hurungaterangi Marae in Ngapuna, in a hikoi protesting against NZTA's proposed Rotorua Eastern Arterial.
NZTA's proposed route between Te Ngae Road and the Lake edge crosses land belonging to three Te Arawa hapu, and could impact on a number of houses and potentially separate the community from two urupa (cemeteries) and hot baths.
Following words from three iwi representatives, Rotorua mayor Kevin Winters addressed the marchers at this morning's Te Arawa Standing Committee meeting.
He said he was pleased to have the opportunity to speak to them kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face). Mr Winters said while the decision on the preferred route is the New Zealand Transport Agency's, he wanted iwi to know he would advocate on their behalf.
I'm really pleased that you have come here today to show your hurt, your anger and your pain. I'm pleased you brought your children and talked about your ancestors. When I heard you coming up the road I could hear real concern in your voices.
I'm prepared to join your hikoi and walk that entire designated route so I have a better understanding. I'm prepared to do more listening and more consultation. We have heard your words, your voices.