Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei will not be taking part in any welcoming ceremonies for TPPA officials when they visit Auckland next week.
The Auckland-based hapū is strongly opposed to the TPPA and believes it will be detrimental to the Nation's sovereignty and well-being.
Ngāti Whatua Ōrākei Trust Chairman, Piripi Davis says, “There has been a lot of anger and mistrust voiced about the TPPA by our whānau and we agree with them.
The TPPA undermines the national sovereignty of New Zealand, and is likely to give increased rights to multi-national corporations. We cannot allow our whenua and moana to be endangered through this deal."
Davis also highlights the commercialisation of indigenous flora and knowledge relating to traditional uses of plants as a potential threat.
“Our people take pride in our relationship with the whenua. In just over a week we will invite all of Auckland to our home at Bastion Point to share Waitangi Day. This will be a chance for us to showcase the beautiful whenua we share with Auckland City,”
We want to protect the knowledge passed from our kuia and kaumātua and ensure it is not exploited by overseas corporations. That’s why we are taking this stance.”
A number of hīkoi and meetings are set to take place around New Zealand next week, highlighting public opposition to the TPPA.
One of the biggest protests will take place in Auckland on February 4. This coincides with the TPPA signing date.
Thousands are expected to meet at Aotea square at 12pm.