Mount Taranaki, also known by its Māori name Taranaki Maunga, has been legally recognised as a person in a landmark decision by the New Zealand government, which acknowledges its rights and responsibilities akin to human beings. This designation, part of New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to recognising Māori rights, addresses historical injustices stemming from the colonisation that stripped land from the Māori people of the Taranaki region.
The mountain, standing as a dormant volcano at 2,518 metres, serves not just as a major tourist destination but also holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for local Māori tribes. The new law creates a legal entity, Te Kāhui Tupua, as its representative, consisting of both local tribal members and government appointees.
This recognition complements previous grants of personhood to natural features in New Zealand, including the Whanganui River. The law aims to ensure the preservation and health of Taranaki Maunga, safeguarding it from forced sales and allowing for conservation efforts while maintaining public access.
Paul Goldsmith, a lawmaker involved in the recognition process, highlighted the mountain’s esteemed status and the long-awaited reparation for past colonial wrongs. Support for the law was strong, with unanimous parliamentary approval celebrated by Māori representatives, bringing a sense of unity in a complex racial landscape within New Zealand.