I thought it imperative at this stage of the process to have my opinion heard, being a member of the public that this situation undoubtedly affects. It is with respect to the cultural background of Maori people and pakeha formed so long ago through the Treaty of Waitangi,and consideration to my engagement in the process, that I want to address this issue.
I think it is time to understand and recognise that the pressures and the circumstances that now surround us in society today mean that the issues around the formation of this historical document are no longer relevant, and for the interest of all people need to be re-written and brought forward to the present day.
We need to understand as a country that there is no particular cultural ownership of water. We all share in this wonderful resource and rivers will always flow where they want to go. New Zealand is a place shared by many people, and from time to time we all participate with our families and friends in the use of natural water springs. Ensuring the purity of the water is a central factor which affects everybody.
I feel it is time as a country to move to the next level; the Treaty of Waitangi is yesterday's news. Let's leave the past behind us and move forward to embrace a positive future, taking into consideration the health, well-being and positive economic growth possibilities which ultimately affect all socio-economic backgrounds in a collaboratively beneficial way. This can be done cumulatively with the involvement of all representative groups from around New Zealand who have a genuine vested interest here.
