A western Bay of Plenty hapu says it's been given solid assurances that expansion of container shipping at the Port of Tauranga won't harm the harbour.
The Government granted consents on Tuesday for the port to be widened and deepened to allow bigger container ships to carry more goods for importers and exporters.
The port sits on the tribal lands of the hapu Ngati Ruahine.
Sub-tribe deputy chair Irene Ruka says there are written agreements in place to ensure care for the environment.
She says the port has given many assurances, including a commitment to protect kaimoana and Mauao, or Mount Maunganui.
Irene Ruka says her hapu has never been for or against the dredging - it just wants the harbour to be looked after.