In 1995 Whanganui iwi, supported by many other local people, other iwi and international travellers, occupied Pākaitore, also known as Moutoa Gardens, in Whanganui. This action highlighted the Whanganui Iwi Treaty of Waitangi Claim for the Whanganui River, which had been before all levels of the courts since 1886. The occupation was reported on the front pages of every newspaper in the country as well as around the globe. Opinion was deeply divided in Whanganui and the leaders of the occupation were widely criticised.
What was the occupation all about? Why was it so controversial? And where has it led to? In 1995 photographer Leigh Mitchell-Anyon created a large photo essay of the occupation. This exhibition, with images selected by iwi leaders, marked the 20th anniversary of the occupation and the progress of Whanganui tino rangatiratanga (absolute sovereignty).
The show was funded through the work of the Pākaitore Oral History Project Committee, which worked closely with the Whanganui Regional Museum in developing the exhibition.
This exhibition is on loan courtesy of the Whanganui Regional Museum.
NOVEMBER 2017 - FEBRUARY Livingston Baker Archive & Reading Room