Disappointed at Fast-Track Validation of Taranaki VTM Mining Application

Te Kaahui o Rauru expresses deep disappointment and outrage at the confirmation that the application for the Taranaki VTM seabed mining project has been approved as "complete" under the fast-track consenting process.

The project, led by Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR), proposes destructive seabed mining activities in the South Taranaki Bight—an area of immense cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance to Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi. The validation of this application disregards more than a decade of strong, united opposition from iwi Maaori, environmental groups, and coastal communities.

“We are dismayed this application has been pushed forward without genuine engagement with tangata whenua,” said Renée Bradley, Tumu Whakahaere of Te Kaahui o Rauru. “This is not consultation, and it is certainly not partnership. Our concerns are not bureaucratic —they are about protecting our moana, our rangatiratanga, and our responsibilities as kaitiaki.”

The fast-track process - already under public scrutiny - has been widely criticised for bypassing proper environmental and Treaty protections. The acceptance of this application further exposes how Crown systems continue to marginalise mana whenua voices in decisions about their own whenua and moana.

Tahinganui Hina, Tumu Whakarae added “Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi has opposed seabed mining since the beginning. The Crown cannot pretend to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi while using fast-track laws to silence mana whenua. The validation of this application sends a clear message: economic interests are being prioritised over environmental and cultural survival.”

Te Kaahui o Rauru is calling for the immediate removal of the Taranaki VTM project from the fast-track process. The iwi affirms its unwavering opposition to any seabed mining within the iwi’s rohe and is preparing to challenge the decision on all fronts.

“We have never been silent,” said Bradley. “We will not be silent now. We will fight—politically, legally, and morally. For our uri, for our moana and for future generations.”

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