Leon Symes
Leon Symes is the chairman of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, an entity representing the iwi and hapū of Te Rohe o Te Wairoa in New Zealand. Recently, he has been in the news for leading a legal effort aimed at securing formal recognition of the rights and responsibilities of his iwi and hapū over freshwater resources in Wairoa. Symes emphasizes that this initiative is not about ownership but about establishing a partnership with the government to ensure the sustainability of local waterways, which are vital for the cultural and environmental health of his community.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Chairman Leon Symes stated the trust's position on the floodway options remained unchanged.
Wairoa flood spillway refined, reducing impact on homes and Māori land
New Zealand· 2025-03-28
Leon Symes, chairman of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, said it was seeking formal recognition of iwi and hapū's rights and responsibilities over freshwater within Wairoa.
Legal fight looms over Wairoa’s freshwaterNew Zealand· 2025-02-16