Rāhui placed at Arapuni and Bulmers Landings

Following the tragic drowning of a man in the Waikato River near Arapuni last Friday evening, Raukawa have placed a rāhui over Arapuni Landing and Bulmers Landing. The rāhui also applies to Jones Landing, in South Waikato District.

The rāhui will remain in effect until 9am Saturday 18 January, to provide time for the areas and for the community to rest and recover.

We kindly ask everyone to respect the rāhui by refraining from swimming, fishing, or engaging in any water-based activities at these sites during this period.

After the loss of a life in the sea, river or lake, local Māori may place a rāhui to restrict access to the site. The rāhui is a sign of respect for the person who has died and their family or whānau, and allows time for the tapu associated with the death to dissipate.

A rāhui is established and later lifted through the karakia (prayer or blessing) of iwi kaitiaki (guardians) and kaumātua (elders) and is enforced by the respectful understanding and acceptance of the surrounding community.

Waipā District Council is providing signage at Arapuni Landing and Bulmers Landing to keep the public informed of the rāhui.