The region is home to the tribes of Te Whanau a Apanui, Ngati Porou, Rongowhakaata, Aitanga a Mahaki, Ngai Tamanuhiri, Rongomaiwahine, Ngati Kahungunu, Rangitane, Ngati Toa, Te Atiawa, Muauupoko and Ngati Raukawa.  These tribes maintain their hapu mana moana and rangatiratanga over their fishing taonga.

 

The tribes are famed for their whakapapa links to Tangaroa (the sea) and to the descendants of the Takitimu, Horouta, Kurahaupo and Mataatua wakas.  The region is also home to the legendary landing place of Paikea (who arrived on the back of a whale).

 

Historically many of the inshore finfish and shellfish species found in the region formed a staple part of the early Maori diet and are viewed as a taonga.  Some species hold particular value to Maori in this region including paua, rock lobster, kina, tarakihi, kahawai, flatfish, freshwater eels, pipi and cockles.