Tōpuni

New Zealand pigeon and kākā feather
Māori cloak

The concept of Tōpuni derives from the traditional Ngāi Tahu custom of rangatira (chiefs) extending their mana (power and authority) over areas or people by placing their cloaks over them. Tōpuni status therefore confirms the overlay of Ngāi Tahu values on these public conservation areas. The Tōpuni does not override or alter the existing status of the land, but ensures that Ngāi Tahu values are recognised, acknowledged, and provided for.

The Tōpuni involves three levels:

• Statement of the Ngāi Tahu values;
• A set of principles for avoiding diminishing those values; and
• Agreed actions to give effect to these principles.

The Tōpuni provides a public symbol of Ngāi Tahu manawhenua and rangatiratanga over the most prominent features of these public conservation areas. It is an enduring symbol of the tribe's commitment to conserving areas of high natural and historic values as well as ensuring an active role for Ngāi Tahu in the management of the area.