| Abstract |
The Rotorua Geothermal System is located in New Zealand’s TaupÅ Volcanic Zone. It has been extensively researched and is recognized internationally for its more than fifteen hundred significant surface features (including Pohutu Geyser). As well as intrinsic, landscape and biodiversity values, the geothermal resource contributes to the local and regional economy through a significant tourism industry and commercial and domestic direct heat use. There are a large number of stakeholder groups with an interest in the management of Rotorua geothermal system, including commercial businesses, tourism operators, domestic users, conservationists, Government agencies and the community in general. MÄori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have a unique relationship with the geothermal resource, with low impact traditional uses part of everyday life. Multiple tribal entities (iwi and hapu) therefore have a strong interest in its management. The Rotorua Geothermal System is currently managed by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). The Council’s Regional Policy Statement sets the overall direction for sustainable management of the region’s geothermal systems, and categorises the Rotorua System as a ‘special purpose’ system, where protection of surface features takes precedence over extractive use. Policies and rules governing the use and development of the geothermal resource are contained in the Rotorua Geothermal Regional Plan. A review of this plan is underway and includes the development of a System Management Plan (SMP), or whole system management framework. Community participation in this review is required by the RMA, and Council is engaging with the community at all key stages of plan development. The varying stakeholders within Rotorua bring unique perspectives ‘to the table’, based on their current use and understanding of the geothermal system, their sense of place and their aspirations. For this reason, the scope of the SMP is broad and it has been developed through a collaborative process. A particular challenge is ensuring the multiple interests of Maori are represented in the process, including their relationship with the resource as tangata whenua (local indigenous people) and kaitiaki (guardians), their role as landowners with access to the geothermal resource, and as their role as investors and developers in the geothermal industry. This has included raising awareness and targeted consultation through workshops with all key stakeholders, including Maori Governance entities. A special working group made up of representatives from the Maori communities that have continuously occupied Rotorua’s geothermal areas (Ahi KÄ) has also guided development of the document. This unique perspective will be reflected in the broad scope of the SMP, which extends beyond the traditional content of system management plans, to include community values, relationships, history, matauranga MÄori (traditional Maori knowledge) and MÄori aspirations. |