Time Is Running Out: Climate Change Threatens Sacred Urupā | The Hui 2026

The beauty of Hokianga Harbour and the historic settlements along its shores are treasured by the people who call this place home. But rising sea levels, storm surges, and climate change are forcing communities to confront a difficult reality: how to protect their homes, marae, and, most importantly, their sacred urupā from ongoing coastal erosion. Whatitiri Te Wake travels to Te Rangi to meet iwi leaders Harry Smart and his daughter Hinemoa, who are searching for new ways to safeguard these wāhi tapu for future generations. Nearby, the hapū of Mitimiti faces similar challenges. Mātihetihe Marae Trust chairperson Kyla Campbell-Kamariera shares concerns about worsening road damage from extreme weather events, while Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania outlines efforts to build community resilience to coastal inundation and flooding. Nā Te Māngai Pāho & NZ On Air te pūtea tautoko. ➡️ SUBSCRIBE:    / @thehuinewzealand   To contact The Hui, please email: [email protected] #Hokianga #weather #erosion #TheHui #Aotearoa #Māori #urupā