Families join in clean-up at Whangaehu Beach
Marae community have proud role to play as kaitiaki on precious stretch of Whanganui’s southern coastline
Whangaehu Marae and its wha¯ nau have long been unsung heroes in the effort to keep Whangaehu Beach pristine.
As National Seaweek rolled around, the community rallied once more for a beach clean-up, showcasing their enduring commitment to looking after the environment.
The turnout was impressive, with local families converging on the beach on a near-perfect day on Sunday, March 3. This wasn’t the first time such an event had taken place, but it marked a significant milestone — the debut of a new off-grid, selfcontained facility on the adjacent property. Nestled in this isolated spot, it promises to facilitate future initiatives, ensuring continuity in their conservation efforts.
Chairman Casey Paki, of the Ma¯ori Trust Rakautaua No 9, expressed delight at this development.
“The trust has long harboured the desire to establish a presence here. We see this as a litmus test, gauging the community’s support before charting our next steps. The resounding positivity from both wha¯nau and the public hints at a bright future, potentially giving rise to further initiatives.”
For years, families from the marae have quietly tended to the beach south of Whanganui, their efforts going largely unnoticed. Alongside local farmers, they are the custodians of this precious stretch of coastline.
“Our land spans from the Whangaehu river mouth southward, characterised by its black sands and windswept shores,” said Casey, affectionately dubbing it “the place where driftwood comes to lie”.
The collaboration among Whangaehu Marae, Te Ru¯nanga o Nga¯ Wairiki Nga¯ti Apa, the Department of Conservation and the Rakautaua No 9 Trust was pivotal in ensuring the success of the clean-up.
The Department of Conservation provided essential gear and coordinated rubbish removal, while the ru¯ nanga and marae contributed logistical support and food for the day, fostering a community spirit among participants.
As Casey reflected on the day’s events, he emphasised the heartening sight of families and children uniting for a common cause.
“We are the guardians of this beach — the ‘kaitiaki’,” he said proudly.
Indeed, the sight of the community coming together amidst the beauty of nature serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds that tie them to this special place.