EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)
Organisation: Tamatea Pōkai Whenua / Mana Ahuriri Trust
Project Location: Whanawhana
Contract Type: Fixed-term, project-based
Application Deadline: Monday 23 February 2026
Report Due Date: May 29 2026
Payment: To be negotiated with the successful applicant
About the Role
Tamatea Pōkai Whenua and Mana Ahuriri Trust are seeking a skilled and experienced Cultural Report Writer to prepare a
Cultural Impact Assessment in relation to the Whanawhana Water Storage Project.
Project Context
Heretaunga Water Security Limited is progressing pre-feasibility studies and preparing applications for resource consent
and wildlife approvals for a proposed dam intended to address water security and reliability across the Heretaunga Plains.
The Cultural Impact Assessment will contribute to project design, statutory processes, and ongoing engagement with
mana whenua.
Key Responsibilities
• Independently engage with all mana whenua and hapū who hold connections to the area
• Gather cultural insights and perspectives through hui, kōrero, and other appropriate methods
• Prepare a comprehensive Cultural Impact Assessment Report that reflects te Ao Māori, cultural values, tikanga,
and any identified impacts
• Attend meetings or site visits as required (with support from TPW if needed)
• Ensure all work upholds the values and integrity of hapū engagement
Ideal Candidate Will Have
• Proven experience writing Cultural Values Reports, Cultural Impact Assessments, or similar
• Strong understanding of te Ao Māori and tikanga practices
• Ability to engage respectfully and effectively with hapū and whānau
• Knowledge of the area and existing relationships with mana whenua (preferred)
• Excellent written communication and research skills
• Ability to work independently and meet fixed deadlines
Cultural Report: Scope
• Identification of culturally significant areas, waahi tapu and features within or near to the site that should inform
the design.
• The cultural context and narrative of the general area.
• Opportunities to weave in and promote the cultural narrative of the site and surrounding area & recommendations
for any mitigation that may be required with future development of the site to protect cultural values.
• Any further recommendations that reflect the values and aspirations of our hapū and wider whānau.
Support and Deliverables
• A completed CIA report (digital and hard copy)
• Summary of engagement process with Marae representatives
• Map/spatial reference to support cultural site identification
• Recommendations for incorporation & consideration
• The successful applicant will be supported by Tamatea Pōkai Whenua and Mana Ahuriri Trust where needed (e.g.,
introductions to hapū, contextual background). However, the engagement process will be led by the writer.
For more details email taiao@tpw.iwi.nz or drop off to the TPW office at Level 1/117 Heretaunga Street, Hastings.
EOI closing date – 23 February 2026