Green Party MP Teanau Tuiono has launched his Member's Bill to recognise whales as legal persons with inherent rights, including the right to freedom of movement, a healthy environment, and the ability to thrive alongside humanity.
"Our tohorā are sacred ancestors for many communities across Te Moana Nui a Kiwa, but they are under threat from commercial fishing, pollution, and climate change." says Teanau Tuiono.
"This Bill represents a transformation in how we protect our marine species and the wider moana, to create a law that would protect whales by legally recognising their mana."
The Bill describes te mana o te tohorā through five fundamental principles: Freedom of movement and migration, protection of natural behaviours, protection of social and cultural structures, right to a healthy environment, and the right to restoration and regeneration of habits and ecosystems.
"Indigenous peoples are the enduring kaitiaki of our moana. When we follow their lead, we can protect our precious species and the places they call home."
"The Tohorā Oranga Bill will recognise the inherent mana of tohorā and require decision-makers under a range of environmental law to recognise and provide for the rights of tohorā.
"By recognising the mana of tohorā, this Bill represents a transformation in how we protect our marine species and the wider moana." says Teanau Tuiono.
