The debate through 1994 and 1995
A process of debate and consultation followed through to mid-1995, with meetings and hui/gatherings around the country, media attention, and discussion of the issue in universities and amongst conservation groups. The NZCA received over 380 written submissions. Very few of the written submissions were from Maori (6%); most Maori gave their views verbally at meetings and hui. Nearly half the written responses came from environmental and recreationist NGO groups (46%).
The majority of Maori respondents supported traditional customary use of native plants, animals and materials such as bone and feathers. They insisted that the Treaty of Waitangi guaranteed rights and access to these taonga/valued resources. They questioned the authority and the results of the current systems of management of natural resources.
They upheld tikanga/custom and matauranga Maori/the environmental knowledge and management practices which have been handed down through the generations. They discussed sustainability and protection of species and resources using traditional methods such as rahui/prohibition, and the potentials for decisions to be made at local community levels. They explained the importance of taonga species and materials in keeping Maori culture and identity alive and vibrant in modern times, and emphasised the spiritual dimensions of traditional relationships with the natural world.
The majority of other respondents were opposed to extending Maori customary use to protected species. Many took the NZCA's Paper to be a full-scale policy, rather than just a starting point for looking into the issue. They feared that the NZCA was proposing a system of Maori control over wildlife management where there might be a loss of public control and accountability.
They focussed on a few "icon species" such as kereru/pigeon and toroa/albatross. They believed that Maori harvesting would lead to disaster, and noted that Maori had hunted the moa to extinction. They believed only science and modern ecological management could give security for species at risk.
They insisted on strict legislation, public ownership, strong government control and absolute protection for all native species. They upheld the recreational and symbolic importance of wildlife and unspoiled wild places for New Zealand as a nation.
There is also a lot of common ground. Both Maori and other respondents are strongly committed to the conservation of New Zealand's natural wild creatures, plants, forests and habitats, and want future generations to be able still to enjoy this heritage.
There is agreement that some plants for weaving and some materials from dead animals may be used.
All respondents are strongly opposed to poaching and any uncontrolled harvesting which causes damage to vulnerable populations and habitats.
All are strongly determined to take an active part in conservation, to have their say, and to have their views and priorities taken into account.
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