CARING FOR THE INLET

Throughout New Zealand, Kiwis are actively taking care of their local environment. Sometimes supported by grants from local and regional councils, and often working on the smallest of budgets, individuals and community organisations are doing their best to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for the environment.

Guardians of Pāuatahanui Inlet, a registered charity, was set up in 1991. We are a community group, largely funded by member subscriptions. For specific activities, such as cleaning up the inlet or running our annual photographic competition, we receive assistance from Porirua City Council and sponsorship from local businesses. Everyone in GOPI is a volunteer.

We develop policies on matters that affect the Pāuatahanui Inlet, we make submissions to local, regional and central Government, and we provide opportunities for residents and visitors to care for and celebrate the Inlet.

The Logo

The new logo of Guardians of Pāuatahanui Inlet, selected in 2012, includes a cockle, which is of course an iconic image for the Inlet.

When choosing an image for our logo, we investigated the meaning of 'Pāuatahanui', looking for an appropriate reference within the Māori name of the Inlet we work for. Interestingly, we found that the meaning is not yet settled but one of several possible suggestions, by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (The Māori Language Commission) could be 'a large shellfish'.

The Commission believes that local Māori have the knowledge to decide on the true meaning but as yet there is no definitive answer.

Even if the meaning were to refer to a large shellfish, the cockle population is such an essential part of the health of the Inlet  that it is a highly appropriate symbol for us to choose.

Note: a more detailed discussion on the meaning of Pāuatahanui is found under our heading 'The Inlet', here.