Kiingi Tuheitia Potatau Te Wherowhero VII, the Maori King, has advocated for the recognition of whales as legal persons, emphasizing the importance of 'He Whakaputanga Moana' or the Declaration for the Ocean. This declaration signifies a commitment to safeguarding the treasured possessions of the Maori community, particularly the magnificent whales, seen as significant entities deserving protection and respect.
The Maori King emphasized that this declaration is not simply symbolic, but a tangible form of protection for their treasures, highlighting the necessity of ensuring a future where whales continue to thrive and exist in harmony. Aperahama Edwards, a driving force behind this initiative, underscored the empowerment of indigenous communities in preserving their heritage through the establishment of an ocean protection fund. This fund intends to support efforts aligned with the declaration's objectives, with a focus on fostering a collaborative approach to safeguarding the whales, considered as vital components of the ocean ecosystem.
New Zealand, with a substantial Maori population, has a history of recognizing the legal rights of natural entities such as rivers and mountains, aligning with the traditional beliefs and values of indigenous communities. The call for granting legal personhood to whales signifies a step towards acknowledging the interconnectedness between humanity and the environment, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts that prioritize the well-being of all living beings within the ecosystem.