Creating an Engagement model for the Quarrying Industry and Local Iwi in New Zealand

Abstract

Aggregates are essential for all development, structures, roads and many aspects of everyday life. To meet the demands, New Zealand quarries millions of tonnes of aggregates annually. The high demand, increasing population and high transportation costs of aggregates means the industry in New Zealand must be intuitive in selecting where they source their aggregates. This provides an opportunity for both the industry and iwi (Māori tribes) throughout the country to benefit economically for cases where accessible aggregate sources are present on Māori land. The significant difficulties lie with the environmental impacts associated with the quarrying and extraction of aggregates, which opposes Māori beliefs towards environmental sustainability. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the social and cultural impacts when planning for quarrying activity on Māori land. This paper employs the Mauri Model Decision Making Framework to create a basis for engagement between members of the aggregate quarrying industry and iwi for such quarrying opportunities and as a tool to measure the economic, environmental, social and cultural impacts that occur as a result. In-depth analysis into the key stakeholder’s worldviews aims at ensuring the users can have strong understandings of each other’s priorities, leading them to select and assess the best options and outcomes from both key parties’ points of view.