A rāhui done right: Clear, honest and actually voluntary
It is actually good to see an iwi finally spell it out plainly. The joint rāhui from Ngati Kahu, Ngati Tu, Te Parawhau and Patuharakeke sets clear boundaries from Paparoa to Waipu, and importantly the post states that it is voluntary. That clarity matters. Too often rāhui are presented as if they carry the force of law, and people are pressured into believing they have no choice. Clear communication helps cut through that confusion.
This message takes a different approach. It explains the situation, asks for respect, and acknowledges that the decision sits with individuals. That is how it should be. A rahui is a cultural request, not a statute. When iwi are transparent about that, it helps prevent confusion, avoids unnecessary tension and promotes genuine cooperation instead of resentment. The public responds far better to honesty than to implied authority.
If more iwi communicated like this, people would be far more willing to respect the intent behind a rahui, especially during sensitive situations like a missing person search. Clear, balanced messaging builds trust. It invites people to support the kaupapa willingly rather than reluctantly, and it strengthens the relationship between communities at a time when unity is needed.
My thoughts are with the deceased and their whānau who will be going through an incredibly difficult time.
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Personally, I have to be honest, a rāhui is not going to stop me from going fishing to feed my family and friends...