The permit only allows ground-based non-commercial hunting of introduced wild animals including deer, pigs and goats within the valid period and does not allow the taking of dogs into Te Urewera.
"Te Urewera Board has determined a new approach using new language to describe positive new relationships bound by a high regard for reciprocity, and all based on age-old values to enable the safe use and enjoyment of Te Urewera," Te Urewera Board chairman Tamati Kruger said.
"Establishing a relationship between Tuhoe as the tangata whenua and our manuhiri [visitors] places important obligations on both parties - responsibilities necessary to serve the wellbeing of Te Urewera and to ensure its longevity for our future generations."
He said the Tuhoe Settlement which brought about the Te Urewera Act required the board to strengthen and maintain the connection between Tuhoe and Te Urewera; to preserve as far as possible the natural features, integrity and beauty of Te Urewera and its historical and cultural heritage; and to provide for Te Urewera as a place for public use, enjoyment and as a place of inspiration for all.
"For that to occur we want to manage in an inclusive manner, with people of like minds. Feedback from manuhiri shows a wealth of knowledge demonstrated by the timely input into this permissions system.
"Hunter observations while in Te Urewera alone are a valuable contribution to identifying needs or positive development. This is only a beginning," he said.
"During this process the board has welcomed the input of the Game Animal Council, the Deer Stalkers Association, the Pig Hunters Association and interested members of the public in the development of this hunting permit."
The new permit is available for self-issue on the Tuhoe website at www.ngaituhoe.iwi.nz, or by calling at Tuhoe's Te Kura Whare centre in Taneatua, or any DoC visitor centre.
