Te Arawa Management Limited (TAML) has announced the successful acquisition of Rotorua Duck Tours, one of the region’s most recognisable tourism experiences. The commercial arm of the Te Arawa Lakes Trust stated the decision is grounded in the principles of mana whakahaere and future opportunity for the iwi.
As the owners of the lake beds, the acquisition ensures Te Arawa can actively oversee activities on its waters. “This is a strategic investment that allows us to exercise mana whakahaere while building a sustainable commercial platform for Te Arawa Management Limited,” said TAML Chairman Trevor Newland. He added that the move “creates real opportunities to generate ongoing cashflow that will support the aspirations of Te Arawa Lakes Trust and deliver long-term benefits for our uri.”
The purchase, which expands TAML’s tourism portfolio, follows extensive environmental impact assessments led by William Anaru and the Trust’s Taiao team. The findings confirmed the operation meets safe environmental standards, with the Te Arawa Lakes Trust remaining the independent kaitiaki of lake health and wellbeing.
Te Arawa Lakes Trust Chairman Wallace Haumaha highlighted the alignment between economic development and cultural guardianship. “This is about ensuring that activity on our lakes reflects our values and responsibilities as tāngata whenua,” Haumaha stated. “At the same time, it strengthens the economic base that enables us to protect and enhance the mauri of our lakes for future generations.”
The acquisition is also expected to open up new pathways for Te Arawa descendants in employment, leadership, and enterprise. Chairman Haumaha underscored the importance of collective responsibility in the venture. “This is an important step forward, and one that must be grounded in strong relationships with our iwi kāinga,” he said.
