Another ban

We returned yesterday from Taupo where we had stayed just around the bay from where a 9 year-old girl was tragically killed. It was desperately sad for all parties. No words suffice.

However, I was most interested in the ensuing action of the local Maori Authority Trust Board, Tuwharetoa. They imposed a raahui on about a kilometre stretch of bay which took in a number of upmarket hotels and holiday apartments. A raahui bans people from swimming in the area. It was conveyed through official signs slapped on lamposts etc.

The weather was blisteringly hot and I imagine many people would have felt rather aggrieved at not being able to swim or boat in the lake outside their property or hotel room. But they appeared to be respecting the protocol. However, as the ban was imposed "until further notice", I do not think that will be the case indefinitely.

(A correspondent to NewstalkZB suggested that the raahui would remain in place until a tapu-lifting fee was forthcoming.)