OjiFS Strengthens Connections with Bay of Plenty Iwi

Oji Fibre Solutions (OjiFS) was proud to be formally welcomed onto Hahuru Marae on 27 May.

It was a beautiful event to signal our strengthened connection with tangata whenua and participate in signing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three Bay of Plenty Iwi: Ngati Tuwharetoa (Bay of Plenty), Ngati Rangitihi, and Ngati Awa.

Through the MOU, OjiFS commits to environmental improvement projects for the Tarawera River, community support and close engagement with the three Iwi on matters surrounding our Tasman Mill, in Kawerau.

Both Masato Kawai, Senior Director of OjiFS, and Jon Ryder, OjiFS CEO, spoke at the event and were presented with ponamu taonga to acknowledge the importance of strong relationships and to celebrate the successful collaborative work completed in recent years.

Collaborations included a pioneering inanga habitat project near the mouth of the Tarawera River, riparian river enhancements and some inspiring scholarships for local students established with the First Foundation.

It was a moving, memorable ceremony with warm hospitality shown by the people of Hahuru Marae.

We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Bay of Plenty Iwi and supporting environmental improvements for all.