The creation of a new policy declaring Auckland’s Tūpuna Maunga (ancestral mountains) generally alcohol and smoke-free was approved by the Tūpuna Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau Authority (Maunga Authority) today.
The policy recognises and respects the spiritual, cultural and community significance of the Tūpuna Maunga. It will be drafted over the coming weeks and come into effect when explanatory signage is placed on the maunga.
Paul Majurey, Chair of the Maunga Authority says “The Tūpuna Maunga are taonga to be cherished and respected. The sight of cigarette butts and discarded bottles/cans is not conducive to the living connection our communities have with these important places. The alcohol and smoke-free policy is another of the Maunga Authority led measures to enhance the relationship between people and the Tūpuna Maunga. And, it is pleasing this initiative has the unanimous support of the Mana Whenua, Auckland Council and Crown co-governance partners who lead the Maunga Authority.”
At present, 11 out of the 14 Tūpuna Maunga administered by the Maunga Authority have Auckland Council alcohol bans under bylaw controls which apply to all public places, including the Tūpuna Maunga.
The existing council bans expire in October 2015 but are currently being reviewed by the council in accordance with new thresholds for bans under the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
The Maunga Authority will work with the council during the review to retain the existing bans.
The Maunga Authority also has the option, if needed, of creating a separate bylaw under the Reserves Act 1977.
The new general alcohol and smoke-free policy approved today will be included in the Tūpuna Maunga Integrated Management Plan which will be drafted by the Maunga Authority later this year.