The Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust was established in 1990 as a result of a mediated settlement of the Wai 51 claim with the Crown. The settlement returned various land blocks including the land associated with the Waitomo Glowworm Caves (Hauturu East 8).

The fundamental objects of the Trust are to preserve the spirit and intent of the Wai 51 settlement, to manage the assets for the benefit of its people by supporting their opportunities in life and, to strengthen their hapū identity.

The core business sectors of the Trust include;

• Care for taonga tuku iho assets on behalf of its people
• Lessor responsibilities for the Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Financial market investments
• Forestry and Land.

The Trust is an ahu whenua trust constituted under Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993.

Please click on the link below to view the full history regarding the Trust and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves:

https://ruht.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/2006-Historical-Account-Small-1.pdf

please click on the link below to download the verified Trust Order
https://ruht.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Verified-Trust-Order.pdf

Photo – Southern face of Pukeroa and remnants of Te Nehenehenui – Fullerton Rd Waitomo Caves