Te Manahuna Aoraki has a huge cultural and spiritual significance for the three rūnaka who whakapapa to the area.
Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua
The takiwā of Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua centres on Arowhenua near Temuka and extends from Rakaia to Waitaki and inland to Aoraki and the Main Divide.
Te Rūnanga o Moeraki
Moeraki is the southernmost rūnaka in the project area. It centres on Moeraki and extends from Waitaki to Waihemo and inland to the Main Divide.
Te Rūnanga o Waihao
Te Rūnanga Waihao is named for its river, which has its footprint in the inland foothills. The takiwā centres on Wainono near Waimate, sharing interests with Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua to Waitaki, and extends inland to Omarama and the Main Divide.
