I was pleased to note recently (Rotorua Daily Post, February 3) that the Te Arawa native fisheries is likely to have a bylaw implemented to protect the sustainability of freshwater taonga. This is designed to protect six native species by the Te Arawa Lakes Trust on the Rotorua lakes.
I for one have over the years certainly enjoyed a feed of koura from my favourite lake, albeit have noticed a substantial decline in recent years.
The rational of the Te Arawa Lakes Trust is admirable, until one reads that their future vision of along the lines of a sustainable etc lake, and to ensure that "our people" have appropriate access. And then one reads that whilst there is proposed a total closure of the fisheries, but no, not for customary and cultural purposes.
Let's face it, there is no doubt that over the years Maori have contributed to the decline with all six species on the Rotorua lakes. And now they want a total ban implemented - but not for themselves.
If this recommendation is in fact implemented in July, peg it up as just another privilege for Maori.
