Te Arawa hapu protesting the proposed Rotorua Eastern Arterial have drawn their own line in the sand, marking their territory with three carved pouwhenua along the proposed route.
Opposition to the proposed Rotorua Eastern Arterial (REA) has been growing rapidly since the New Zealand Transport Agency announced its preferred option for the route last month, which has been scheduled for construction between 2020-2025.
The new road would run from the airport to Sala St, cutting through a Maori reservation, would require the purchase and demolition of 12 properties and could cost up to $90 million. Local politicians say the road is essential for the city's future economy.
During a special dawn ceremony on Sunday representatives of Te Arawa hapu Ngati Hurunga Te Rangi, Ngati Te Roro o Te Rangi and Ngati Uenukukopako placed three pouwhenua (carved wooden posts) on tribal land belonging to each of the hapu.
Ruamano, belonging to Ngati Hurunga Te Rangi, was placed at the end of Hona Rd; Whakairirangi, belonging to Ngati Te Roro o Te Rangi was placed near Owhata Rd; and Kakahoroa, belonging to Ngati Uenukukopako was placed near the airport. The dawn ceremony was organised by the Positive Rotorua Environmental Society who are calling on local residents, land owners, businesses and tribal organisations to join together to help stop the proposed roading project.
Organiser Nireaha Pirika said about 200 people attended the ceremony, which brought the community closer.
"We are all united against this and it really showed on Sunday. The wairoa [spirit] down there was incredible.
"The three hapu along this road are not going to give up the fight.
"We believe they should plan on upgrading Te Ngae Rd without having to take more of our land. "The pouwhenua there are a sign showing our resolve."
Plans for further protest action were in the pipeline.
"There's also an election coming up and we will be trying to promote those councillors or candidates who are on our side," Mr Pirika said.