In March 2017, New Zealand made a historic decision to recognize the Whanganui River as a legal person. This landmark legislation, known as the Te Awa Tupua Act, reflects the deep cultural and spiritual connection that the Māori people have with the river.
The Act acknowledges the river, its tributaries, and everything within it as an ancestor, granting it rights similar to those of a legal person. This recognition is the culmination of a 140-year campaign by the Māori community to secure the river's rights and protect it from exploitation.
This decision not only honors Māori beliefs but also sets a precedent for environmental protection and the rights of nature, highlighting the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.