Our vision is that the quality of Fiordland’s marine environment and fisheries, including the wider fisheries experience, be maintained or improved for future generations to use and enjoy.

Between us we represent the interests of commercial and recreational fishers, tourism, recreational users, marine science, conservation, and the local community. The interests and responsibilities of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu are recognised through the appointment of their own representative to the Guardians.

Together, we provide advice to government, make recommendations on management measures, promote information and knowledge sharing, assess the impacts of activities or threats to the area, and help monitor the health of the marine environment.

We support the ethics of environmental kaitiakitanga and stewardship and let these shape our approach. Kaitiaki are people who are given responsibility to look after specific resources as custodians and regulators on behalf of the whānau (family), iwi (tribe) or hapū (subtribe). Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka Inc provides leadership on behalf of ngā papatipu o Murihiku and their responsibilities to Fiordland and the Fiordland Marine Area.

Te Rūnanga o Ōraka Aparima, Waihōpai Rūnaka, Te Rūnanga o Awarua, and Te Rūnanga o Hokonui comprise the four southern (Murihiku) papatipu rūnanga.

Te Rūnanga o Makaawhio, centred in South Westland, hold interest and responsibilities in Milford Sound Piopiotahi and further north.